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VOLUME 19, ISSUE 5

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SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2025

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CONTENTS of

TABLE 10

Every Issue 12 14 60

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Publisher’s Letter Editor’s Note Huntsville Happenings

Events 16 20 22 24 26 28 30 42 46 50 52 54

Rosé Ball Kids To Love Fundraiser Haley’s Grand Reopening Symphony Debutante Tea

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40 Under 40 Reception Bank 47 Inaugural Event Mountain High Outfitters at Clift Farm Grand Opening Huntsville Museum of Art Guild’s UNFRAMED Century Collision Center Grand Opening Design Theory Interiors’ Grand Opening

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Essential Wellness Institute’s Grand Opening Leaders & Legends

Editorials 31 40 48 58 62

Feature: A Tale of Two Adventures Centerstage: Bruce Wilhite Spotlight: Alka Bhargav Calendar Parting Shot: Lady in the Wind, Antelope Canyon

On the Cover Emily Stone, Chris Penney, Joanna May-Rouse, Tricia Murray at the Symphony Debutante Tea Photo by Steve Babin

Rated Best New Event Venue in Huntsville thevenueatoakplace

the Venue at Oak Place

808 Maysville Rd Huntsville, AL • 256-945-7309 • oakplacehsv@gmail.com • www.thevenueatoakplace.com

A Letter from the Publisher

President/Publisher | Todd Stephenson Editor | Lori Boatfield Writers | Steve Babin Katie Holt Noah Logan Jennifer Moore Heather Price Graphic Design/Website | Jim Gharib/IG Webs Graphic Design/Creative Director | Patty Satterly Additional Graphic Design | Anna Michelle Hanks Amy Pearson Lead Photographer | Steve Babin

Welcome to fall, Huntsville! With the school year underway, our community shifts into high gear – festivals, fundraisers, and celebrations will carry us right through the holidays and into the new year. As Huntsville continues to grow, the vital work of our many nonprofits becomes even more important.

I encourage you to find ways to support the causes that matter most to you this season.

In this issue, we’re excited to introduce you to two remarkable individuals who are making an impact right here at home. Our Centerstage feature highlights Bruce Wilhite, a pilot whose story reflects dedication and passion.

And our Spotlight editorial shines on Alka Bhargav, Founder and Executive Director of the AUM Foundation, whose leadership and vision bring tremendous value to our community.

Of course, none of what we do would be possible without the support of our advertisers. Please take a moment to shop with them, thank them, and let them know you saw their message in EVENT Magazine. Their partnership helps us continue to celebrate Huntsville’s people, places, and events.

Wishing you a joyful and colorful season ahead.

Stephanie E. Jennings Jessie Lewis Dimitrios Skiadopoulos Jeff White Federico Morales Zimmermann

Director of Sales | Carolyn Stephenson Distribution | Glenda Mace

HUNTSVILLE EVENT Magazine is published bi-monthly by EVENT Magazine, LLC, P.O. Box 14219, Huntsville, AL 35815. For advertising information please call 256.533.8078 or email advertise@eventhuntsville.com.

For editorial information or to request coverage of an event, please visit our website at www.eventhuntsville.com.

SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION

HUNTSVILLE EVENT Magazine is published bi-monthly by EVENT Magazine, LLC. although the magazine is distributed free throughout the area in Athens, Decatur, Fayetteville, Guntersville, Huntsville, Madison and Owens Cross Roads, paid subscriptions are available for $50.00 annually. For new subscriptions or changes of address, call 256.533.8078 or email subscriptions@eventhuntsville.com.

All contents ©2025. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use in whole or in part of the contents without the prior written permission of the publisher is prohibited.

HUNTSVILLE EVENT Magazine is a registered trademark of EVENT Magazine, LLC. All rights reserved. Unsolicited photographs or articles are submitted at the risk of the photographer or author. EVENT Magazine, LLC assumes no liability for the return of any unsolicited materials and may use them at its discretion.

Happy Fall, Y’all!

Todd Stephenson President/Publisher

Scan the QR Code below to visit our website eventhuntsville.com

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To Submit an Ad or Event to HUNTSVILLE EVENT MAGAZINE please call us 256.533.8078 or visit our website eventhuntsville.com

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Editor’s Note

The Soak House LUXURY DAY SPA WRAPPED IN SOUTHERN CHARM

Hey Huntsville! I hope you’re enjoying getting back into the swing of things now that fall is approaching. Summer seemed to fly by in a flash!

This summer was a special one for my family, as my son graduated from high school and we traveled to the Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon National Park and Zion National Park, as well as a few stops in between.

Catch some details and photos from that trip in our feature, A Tale of Two Adventures. The feature also includes Steve Babin’s motorcycle trip on the Dempster Highway, with incredible photos and details.

Event season has been at its peak, and our photographers have been out and about capturing the moments. From Leaders & Legends to the Rosé Ball and grand openings galore, we’ve been honored to be invited to be part of such worthy causes and new businesses opening!

We couldn’t put this publication into your hands without our advertising partners. They are the reason we can put focus on the many people and organizations that make Huntsville such a wonderful place to live and work.

Shop with them for clothes, shoes, art, a car, a new roof; bank with them, call them for your next home project! And don’t forget to tell them you saw them right here in Huntsville EVENT. Here’s to Fall,

Lori Boatfield Editor

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The 2025 Rosé Society Check Presentations

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2025 Rosé Ball The Rosé Society hosted the 6th annual Rosé Ball on April 5 at Stovehouse. The Rosé Society is a group of women who are dedicated to raising money and awareness for local nonprofits that benefit North Alabama’s women and children. Guests danced the night away with good friends. The Rosé Ball raised $120,000 to benefit area charities: Crisis Services of North Alabama, Therapy Partners, and Habitat for Humanity. The Rosé Society’s motto is, “When women support each other, incredible things happen.” n Photos by Steve Babin continued on page 18

Darrell & Brittney Shonk

The 2025 Rose Society Directors

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HUNTSVILLE EVENT MAGAZINE

Tiara & Jason Gullotta

S tach & Co. autumn Shopping guide

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Rosé Ball continued

Donny Maleknia, Al Khosh

John & Kayron Maner

Dr. Ed & Miranda Nichols

Patti Jean, Kurt Scheidker

Olya Smith, Anna Katherine Thompson

Sonia Greene, Lisa Davis Mays Dr. Rob & Heidi Sotoudehnia, Lyn & Deon Johnson

Evan Willis, Kristen Strickland

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Michael Ponter, Ivory Snow

HUNTSVILLE EVENT MAGAZINE

Melissa Chavez, Dr. Sonya Wintzell, Melanie Ponce

Tommy Siniard, Lee Marshall

Lee Marshall, Celeste Childs, Julie & Tom Billig

David Nast, Riley & Kelsey Siniard, Lee Nast

Siniard Law Cocktail Party Benefitting Kids to Love Siniard Law hosted a cocktail party at the home of Tommy and Susan Siniard, benefitting Kids to Love on May 1. The event served to highlight the organization’s new Smith Family Wellness Center, which is dedicated to helping heal trauma through specialized mental health services. “The Smith Family Wellness Center is more than a building – it’s a promise to children and families that they don’t have to walk through pain or uncertainty alone,” said Lee Marshall, Founder and CEO of Kids to Love. Visit hopefortrauma.org to learn more. n Photos by Jeff White

Tommy & Susan Siniard, Ken & Lucy Watson

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HUNTSVILLE EVENT MAGAZINE

Abby, Chris & Kristi Haley

Anna Butler, Lee Marshall, Jeff Olson

Abby & Drew Haley

Haley’s Furnishings Grand Reopening Haley’s Furnishings Co. held an open house to celebrate the grand reopening of the store on May 8. The event included a ribbon cutting, a reception with giveaways and goodies, including the Grand Reopening Giveaway – a spa day package at Terrame Salon & Spa. Guests enjoyed coffee from Sparrow Coffee Company and lavender treats, soaps and cakes from J & C Local Farms. n Photos by Steve Babin Tom Ray, Susie Brock, Breken Laughlin, Victoria Mitchell

Suzanne Holden, Angela Coleman, Britt & Scott Silcox

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HUNTSVILLE EVENT MAGAZINE

Carolyn Stephenson, Carla Stiles

AN EVENING AT HUDSONALPHA WITH

Francis Collins, MD, PhD Dr. Collins led the Human Genome Project and is the Former Director of the National Institutes of Health and National Human Genome Research Institute

Monday, November 17 at 5:30 PM The Jackson Center 6001 Moquin Drive

FREE EVENT! Register now by scanning the QR code

Event sponsored by: Mike and Clare Grisham Amy Thornton

Emily Stone, Joanna May-Rouse

Theresa Taylor, Samantha Bentley, Brenda Milberger

Bently Hess, Melissa Gimenez

Symphony Debutante Tea 2025 Symphony Ball debutantes enjoyed afternoon tea on May 14 at the home of Mrs. Chris Penney. The previous year’s Ball Chairman, Tricia Murray served as host. Attending were 23 young ladies making their debut at the 62nd Symphony Ball on October 25, their mothers or grandmothers, members of the 2025 Symphony Ball Committee, past Guild Presidents, officers, and past Ball Chairmen. Fare was prepared by Sally Stockton, with flowers arranged by Kelly Towry. The Symphony Ball, sponsored by the Huntsville Symphony Orchestra Guild is an annual fundraiser benefiting the Huntsville Symphony Orchestra. n Sarah Edwards, Alexandra Cazier

Photos by Steve Babin

Lindsay Rice, Nicole Reeves, Amy & Nancy Kate Henrich

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HUNTSVILLE EVENT MAGAZINE

Suzanne O’Connor, Jennifer Lapidus

Kathy Williford, Willie Corlew

Discover Huntsville’s Premier Lifestyle Community Townhomes from the Mid to Upper $500s Single Family Homes from the Mid $600s to $1+ Million • Built by Huntsville’s Finest Builders - Built by Bryan, Ford Classic Homes, and Black Crow Building Co. • Sidewalks along beautiful tree-lined streets • Town Center with great restaurants and shopping • Two Clubhouses with work-out facilities and gathering spaces • Junior Olympic, Zero-Entry and Kiddie Pools • Playground • Dog Park • Event lawn and pocket parks

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Katie Holt, Sarah Zupko

Vincent Farrell, Shelby & Richard Constantine

Danielle & Michael Portera, Blake Redmond

Huntsville Business Journal Celebrates Top 40 Under 40 The Huntsville Business Journal hosted its third annual celebration honoring the winners of its Top 40 Under 40 on May 21 at Lost Highway at Yellowhammer. Merrill Lynch and Bank of America were this year’s sponsors. Catering was

by Berry & Board. Business Journal Editor Sarah Zupko said,”This group of young professionals are passionate, talented, and driven. The ways that they give back to the community are inspiring to me. It was a gift to set aside an evening to recognize them and their accomplishments.” n

Pamela & Markee Bass

Photos by Steve Babin

Brad & Jack Cardwell, Megan & Chris Jeacock, Vishwa Parikh

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HUNTSVILLE EVENT MAGAZINE

Audrey Johnson, Curtis Venetta

Bella Rideau-Williams, Jalen Williams

Lonnie & Josh Jones, John Johnson

Jada Leo, Anne & Hamlin Caldwell, Sean & Kennedy Leopard, Dustin Haraway, Matti Sutton

Bank 47’s Inaugural Celebration Bank 47 held an inaugural event to celebrate community and their vision of banking, at The Ledges on June 26. The event featured a powerful keynote speech by renowned performance coach Dr. Kevin Elko, known for his inspiring insights and motivational style. Bank 47 President John Johnson said of the bank’s concept, “Bank 47 was created with a bold and simple idea that banking can be more than a business. It can be a force for connection, a platform to build strong relationships, strong neighborhoods and a strong future.” n Gracie & Faith Fletcher

James & Teena Brown, Keith Good

Photos by Jeff White

Jada Leo, Todd Stephenson

Tom Albright, Hill Womble, Melissa & Mike Tepool, Phil Slater

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HUNTSVILLE EVENT MAGAZINE

Jill Frawley, Ashley Ayres, Pat Frawley

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Chris & Anna Groom with Selah & Grae

Ellis & Leslie Ku, Clara Choong

Sonja Conrad, Gertrise Thomas

Mountain High Outfitters Opens at Clift Farm Mountain High Outfitters celebrated the grand opening of their newest location at Clift Farm, 461 John Henry Way in Madison. The event featured food, drinks and good vibes, with the first 100 guests receiving swag bags and gift cards. All attendees had a chance to win two $500 gear giveaways, as well as the opportunity to meet the team, and soak up the fun. n Photos by Steve Babin The Opening Crew

Matt Coburn, Katie McGee

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Kelly & Trent Richard

HUNTSVILLE EVENT MAGAZINE

Brooke Pugh, Kody Purinton

A Tale of Two

Adventures

Huntsville EVENT staff embarked on travel adventures across North America this summer.

Editor Lori Boatfield and family headed west, while Lead Photographer Steve Babin and friends traveled to the extreme northwest. Follow along, from the Grand Canyon to the Arctic Ocean.

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Go West Young Man Written and photographed by Lori Boatfield The young man in question is my eldest son, Rafe, and he did indeed go west this summer for his senior trip, with his parents, grandparents and siblings in tow.

Flying out of Huntsville with a stop in Dallas, then into Las Vegas, we boarded our flight just before the sun rose, but a mechanical issue delayed us for more than an hour. We nearly missed our connecting flight in Dallas and literally ran the 30 gate distance between planes. This set the tone for our days of hiking (though never at the pace of our airport run) with an average of 10 miles walked per day. Our Bryce Canyon trek was the equivalent of 70 flights of stairs.

Day one was a flying and driving day (we rented a 10-passenger van so the group could travel together.) We made a stop at Hoover Dam for a short tour and photos at the top of the massive structure where Nevada and Arizona meet, standing in two time zones simultaneously. We then drove four hours to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, staying at a quaint lodge in the park called The Yavapai. We spent the next two days taking in the views of the canyon and exploring Grand Canyon Village.

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Recommended: -A stop at the historic El Tovar Hotel, constructed in 1905, which sits directly on the South Rim -Visit Hopi House, designed by famed architect Mary Colter in 1904, modeled after the 1,000-year-old pueblo dwellings of Hopi villages -The wind is particularly strong at the rim at Grand Canyon Village, so literally, hold on to your hat Day four found us back in the van driving to Page, Ariz., where we toured Lower Antelope Canyon, offering mesmerizing views. Known as Hasdeztwazi or “Spiral Rock Arches” in Navajo, Lower Antelope Canyon’s formation over millions of years by water and wind has resulted in its stunning textures and shapes. A photograph taken in Antelope Canyon, entitled, “Phantom” by landscape photographer Peter Lik sold for 6.5 million to a private collector in

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Page also boasts Horseshoe Bend, where we took a 1.5 mile hike to the overlook of the picturesque turn of the Colorado River near Glen Canyon.

Recommended: - If you’re traveling in the summer, the temperatures are punishing.

You can’t take bags or backpacks on the Antelope Canyon tour because of the tight spaces, but it is recommended to take water along with you for the 50-minute tour. The temperatures hovered at 110 degrees on our day in Page.

We spent the remainder of our trip lodging at our “headquarters,” a house in Kanab, Utah, centrally located between Bryce Canyon National Park and Zion National Park. Day five was spent at Bryce Canyon, which was my son Bryce’s favorite spot on the trip. The rock formations are dubbed hoodoos, meaning “to bewitch,” and they certainly did. Hoodoos range from human-height to that of a 10-story building. My husband, sons and I took the 1.8-mile trek to the floor of the canyon on the Queen’s Garden Trail and were rewarded by seeing the Queen Victoria hoodoo, which resembles a famous photograph of the royal.

We spent day six at Zion National Park. This park’s vistas are from the bottom of the canyon looking up. Traveling to the visitor’s center, we drove through the Mt. Carmel/Zion tunnel, a little over a mile long, through the rock. We walked the Pa’rus Trail, an easy, flat walk about 2.5 miles, following the Virgin River to Canyon Junction, taking the shuttle to the Temple of Sinawava to hike Riverside Trail, a more challenging walk, which winds beside the river.

Recommended: -Rent water shoes and hiking sticks at the Visitor’s Center and hike the Narrows – a nine-mile trek in the river through the narrowest part of the canyon. With the self-guided option, hikers can take in as much or as little of this trail as they choose.

-Visit the Zion Lodge, built in the 1920s, nestled into the surrounding cliffs with sweeping views of Zion’s famous sandstone towers.

-Bike the Pa’rus Trail – electric or manual bikes can be rented at the visitor’s center. The path is mostly flat and easily navigable.

We spent the final evening back in Las Vegas, showing the kids the lights and sights of the strip, before taking an early morning flight back to Huntsville.

The memories we made can’t be measured against the cost of plane tickets, vehicle rentals or lodging. Sharing that time with our children and our parents was an unforgettable blessing.

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Arctic Ocean Motorcycle Trip Written by Steve Babin, Photos by Dimitrios Skiadopoulos, Federico Morales Zimmermann & Steve Babin In 2023, I had just wrapped up a 10-day motorcycle trip in Costa Rica with my friend Dimitrios. We had a great time, and that trip taught me that these far-off, “bucket list” type trips were more within reach than I had previously thought. I started looking for the next adventure and pretty quickly set my sights on the Dempster Highway in far NW Canada, which brings you all the way to the Arctic Ocean.

and solid contingency plans had to be firmly in place for whatever might go wrong.

Dimitrios and I left June 14, trailering the motorcycles across the United States and up through Canada to Whitehorse, Yukon Territory, where we met our friend Federico. From there we continued to Dawson City. There were wildfires closing roads along the way, and we really got lucky with our timing, as we were not delayed by them. After unloading the bikes, we set off on the Dempster on June 24.

The Dempster Highway starts just outside of Dawson City in the Yukon and continues north for about 550 miles, ending in the Village of Tuktoyaktuk on the Arctic Ocean. It’s a government road made of dirt and gravel. There are We spent six days on the Dempster Highway. The views were stunning and the serious potholes, washboards and deep gravel. When it’s dry, it’s extremely riding was challenging, even stressful at times as the conditions were constantly dusty; when it’s wet, it’s very slick. It can be very challenging on two wheels. changing. We crossed the Arctic Circle on June 25 and took a break to enjoy the milestone. We reached Tuktoyaktuk and the Arctic Ocean on June 27. We We decided to shoot for mid-June 2025 to start and figured it would take celebrated at the “End of the Road” and prepared for the return trip. The ride about a month to get there and back. Logistically, there was a lot to consider, back south was just as difficult and beautiful as the ride north.

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Our friend Aleck Hernandez was supposed to join us but had to cancel at the last minute.

He was with us in spirit and was cheering us on from home.

It’s hard to describe the remoteness...looking out on a vast landscape and seeing no evidence of civilization. It reminded us to be careful, as medical help was quite far away. The people we met were exceptionally welcoming, and we were grateful for their hospitality. They all seemed genuinely happy that we had traveled to their communities. We were there during the warmest part of the year, and I can’t imagine how hardy people have to be to have survived the winters up there for tens of thousands of years. We saw a lot of wildlife – from bears, caribou, and moose to marmots, porcupines, and beaver.

After the long drive back south, I arrived back home on July 11, happy to be reunited with Josie.

All in all, this trip challenged us in many ways. And it was just what we were looking for! n

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Bruce Wilhite

40

Centerstage

Written by Lori Boatfield Photos provided by Bruce Wilhite

Bruce Wilhite is an airline pilot who, with his family, makes his home in Huntsville.

What or who inspired you to be a pilot?

I have always had a passion for flying. Like many military pilots of my generation, the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, pushed me to join the Air Force and become a pilot. In 2025, I will complete 21 years of service in the Air Force, Alabama Air National Guard, and the Air Force Reserve. I was hired at my airline in 2014 and am a captain on the Boeing 717.

Can you describe a moment in your work that was unexpectedly emotional or unforgettable?

I have been blessed to be a part of many memorable moments. However, some moments stand out above the rest. First, I had the honor of participating in four dignified transfer flights transporting service members who gave the ultimate sacrifice. Each one was unforgettable in its own way, and all were a reminder of the cost of the freedoms we enjoy.

Second, I had the privilege of taking my grandfather flying on his 90th birthday. He had not been in an

airplane in 55 years, and we had a great day flying around the Huntsville area. He’s gone now, but I’ll have those memories with me for the rest of my life.

What’s your favorite part of the job? What’s the most challenging part?

My favorite part of the job is the opportunity for additional interests that the work schedule provides.

My wife and I have three teens that keep us on our toes: twins Owen and Kathryn, and a younger daughter, Sullivan. We are also real estate investors and own a small property management company.

Additionally, I serve as a CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) helping abused and neglected children in our area. These outside endeavors would be much more difficult with a traditional work schedule.

The most challenging aspect of the job is time management. It is sometimes difficult to be home for holidays and family events because of the nature of the job. Flights happen every day of the year and someone has to fly them. Over the years, we have learned flexibility, particularly when our kids were small. I will always remember the advice

I was given during my first year at the airline when I had to work over Christmas. The captain I was flying with said, “Santa can always come early, but never let him show up late!” We had a couple of Christmases on December 24th, but Santa never showed up late. I pass that advice on to the new pilots I fly with now.

What do you love most about Huntsville?

I am privileged to travel around the country, but blessed to come home to North Alabama. I grew up in Hartselle, but my wife Sarah (Strickland) was born and raised in Blossomwood. We were married here in 2005 at my wife’s home church, Mayfair Church of Christ, where her grandfather preached for decades. During my military service, Huntsville was a refuge for us between duty stations and during holidays with three young kids. Even though it has grown so much in the last decade, we feel a sense of community that is sometimes more like a small town than the city it has become. I tell everyone who will listen how special it is here. n

41

Joe & Marie Newberry

Mande & Max Klein

Amy Roark, Rebecca Sargent, Patrick McCormick, Kaitlyn Roark

Lynne Ellett, Henri Helstowski

Ann Kepner, Leslie Watts

UNFRAMED: Off to the Races Celebrates 33rd Year UNFRAMED: Off to the Races, Huntsville Museum of Art Guild’s signature annual fundraiser, supports the Museum’s exhibitions, educational programs, and community outreach. The May 3 event gathered guests for an evening of unbridled fun and Derby fare, with live jazz from the Don Bowyer Quartet. Held at The Royal at Stovehouse, the celebration featured a live broadcast of the Kentucky Derby, along with a bourbon and wine cork pull, and both live and silent auctions. Featured artwork was The Winners Circle by Laurel Shockley. Sponsors included Redstone Federal Credit Union and many others. n Photos by Steve Babin

continued on page 44 Darlene Wilson Gallien, Shella Sylla, Cierra Belser

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HMA Guild UNFRAMED continued

Beverly Allen, Tammie Berzett Mary & Megan Zingarelli

Jennifer Vickers, Lauren Riehl

Neil & Paula Dial, Ann & Conway Ellers

Miranda & Dr. Ed Nichols, Lee Roop, Patricia Ammons

Jada & Nicole Leo, Brenda & Rick Chappell, Joe & Linda Agee, Kathryn Cataldo, Craig Young

Vaughn & Elizabeth Leatherwood, Kathi & Norm Tew

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HUNTSVILLE EVENT MAGAZINE

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Gray, George, Olivia, Tracy & Charlie Jones

Bill Coggins, Lauren Barry, John Coggins, Sarah & Parker Jones

Century Auto Opens Collision Center Century Collision Center held a grand opening celebration on June 30 at its state-of-the-art 60,000 square foot facility at 1008 Jordan Lane NW, behind Century BMW. The site was built to support the continued growth of Century Auto and is equipped with aluminum capabilities for the most popular luxury brands, along with paintless dent removal, auto detailing, full-service mechanical, and auto glass replacement, plus certification from the top OEMs and insurance partners. The Jones family was on hand to welcome guests. n Sean Kelly, Judy & David Richardson

Tom Ray, Joe Knoch, Ric Patterson, Todd Stephenson

Photos by Stephanie E. Jennings

Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle, Chip Cherry, Tom Byrne, George Jones

Cindy Hopper, Tracy Jones, David Wilhelm, Tom Byrne, George Jones, Suzie Wilhelm

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HUNTSVILLE EVENT MAGAZINE

Danny & Beverly Alm

Alka

Bhargav 48

SPOTLIGHT

Written by Katie Holt Photos by Steve Babin

Over a decade ago, Alka Bhargav had a vision, one that is now transforming the lives of young women across Alabama every day.

A longtime Huntsville resident, Bhargav’s professional background includes years in human resources and vocational rehabilitation, roles that gave her a front-row seat to the challenges women face when trying to build stable, fulfilling lives.

Bhargav has served on many boards, including Drake State Foundation, New Futures, the Madison City Disability Advocacy Board, and the North Alabama Society of Human Resource Management. She also served as President of the Women’s Economic Development Council (WEDC) Foundation Board.

In 2013, along with her husband, Bhargav created the AUM foundation, channeling her skills and experience into equipping young women with the tools, confidence, and opportunities they need to succeed.

As the founder of AUM Foundation, Bhargav leads Pathway 2 Success, a holistic program designed to empower under-resourced high school girls to break the cycle of poverty, achieve economic independence and enable them to build brighter futures. Currently, the foundation supports programs at high schools in Decatur, Huntsville, Madison, and Selma.

According to Bhargav, success for each girl going through the Pathway 2 Success program is different.

It’s up to each individual.

“Success will look different for each kid.” Bhargav said. “One wants to be a welder, another one wants to be a physician, so it’s going to be different ...the vision is that all these girls that go through a program will be financially independent and will pay it forward.”

For Bhargav, mentoring is central to the foundation’s mission.

“There are some amazing women in this city who have stepped forward, doctors, engineers, business owners. All kinds of women have found a place where they can leave a legacy,” Bhargav said. “What you leave in the minds of people is your legacy.”

The results speak for themselves. Since its inception, Bhargav says the AUM Foundation has helped more than 400 young women.

Some have gone on to attend prestigious universities on full scholarships, including one student who earned a QuestBridge award to the University of Pennsylvania, a success story Bhargav credits to the dedication of both the student and her mentors.

But Bhargav’s most ambitious project is still ahead: an affordable housing and support center for college women. This initiative will address what AUM’s founder says are three of the most significant barriers to college completion: housing insecurity, mental health challenges, and the lack of a reliable support network.

The vision is bold: a campus that provides affordable housing alongside tutoring, mental health services, a technology lab, and ongoing life skills classes. The land has already been purchased; the next step is raising the $20 million needed to build the center.

Bhargav says she not only wants this center to help girls locally but also to be a nationwide template for the support of under-resourced female college students all across America.

One of the foundation’s most anticipated events, Bollywood Night, helps fuel these dreams. Each October, the Von Braun Center comes alive with colorful décor, vibrant music, exciting dance performances, and an array of authentic Indian cuisine. This year’s event, scheduled for October 18, promises to be no exception.

Every ticket sold supports programs that uplift and equip under-resourced girls for lifelong success.

While Bhargav admits fundraising in today’s economic climate is challenging, she remains undeterred. Her focus is clear: to ensure every young woman in the program has the tools, resources, and confidence to succeed, and to inspire them to one day extend that same support to others. n

“When we have the building, the program will be open to college girls from any college in the area. If you meet the criteria, you don’t need to have come through high school to live there,” Bhargav explained.

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Riley Widner, Elizabeth, Holly & David Keel

Anna Ford, Cathy Myrick, Faeh Reese, Jamie Freeman

Design Theory Interiors Grand Opening Design Theory held a grand opening at its space, Off Broadway, in Huntsville on June 20.

The opening also served to welcome local artists whose work is featured throughout the storefront, along with clients, friends, and family who came to celebrate the milestone. The event marked the debut of a unique concept that seamlessly blends full-service design with thoughtfully selected home décor, ready-to-take-home furnishings, handpicked jewelry, and meaningful gifts for any occasion. n Photos by Stephanie E. Jennings

Jamie & Lucy Freeman

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Hannah Nelson, Jamie Freeman, Paige Evans, Elizabeth Keel, Sam Bryan, Faeh Reese, Nancy Smith, Emry Bryan

Haley Milberger, Gina Lemmond

HUNTSVILLE EVENT MAGAZINE

Caleb & Lauren McWhorter, Hannah Nelson, Tucker Gambrill

Celebrating 32 Years

Brenda Martin, Abby Johnson

Dianne Bozeman, Nicholas Mulligan, Jeanetta Arhin

Dr. Ted Edwards, Dr. Belinda Savage-Edwards, Kynnedie Edwards

Cheryl Moore Davis, Richele Jordan-Davis, Shayla Tate, Jeanetta Arhin

Baylee Woods, Madyson Edwards

Essential Wellness Grand Opening Essential Wellness Institute, North Alabama’s first Face, Mind & Body Clinic, officially opened July 11 at 2702 Triana Blvd SW in Huntsville. Guests were invited to hop aboard the BTS Bus for live treatment demos and see the clinic’s advanced technology in action, along with guided tours of the facility and a chance to meet the expert team. Led by board-certified physicians Dr. Belinda Savage-Edwards and Dr. Ted Edwards, the clinic offers non-invasive, science-backed therapies for fat loss, muscle building, hormone balance, mood, chronic pain, and more. n Photos by Stephanie E. Jennings

Kynnedie Edwards, Sarah Rogers, Janice Davis

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Mariangely Rivera, Skylar Hurst (2025 Youth of the Year), Temperance Ricks

Chad Caudle, Nathan Wake, Brantley Johnson, Jordan & Tindall Cole, JD Seymour

Sam Barr, Todd McAdams, Ray White

Kristopher Washington, Megan Harris, Marlone Sankey, Rosie Williams, Brian Mitchell, Lori Sottolano

Leaders & Legends Celebrates 15th Year Matt & Lori Meyer

The Leaders & Legends signature fundraising gala for Boys & Girls Clubs of North Alabama was held on July 10 at VBC. The event celebrates North Alabama’s most impactful leaders alongside Club alumni and youth whose lives have been changed by the Boys & Girls Club experience. This year’s event featured NBA legend and Hall of Famer Allen Iverson who shared his powerful personal journey. “I didn’t get here by myself. The mentors that I had at the Boys & Girls Clubs were so important to helping me get to where I am today,” Iverson said. The event was made possible by Hiley Mazda. n Photos by Stephanie E. Jennings

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HUNTSVILLE EVENT MAGAZINE

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October 17, 2025-February 1, 2026

Michael Grecco (b. 1958), Poison Ivy, The Cramps, Boston, Massachusetts, 1980. Black and white photograph on Ilford Gold Fiber Gloss paper. 36 x 24 in. ©Michael Grecco Productions, Inc./Grecco.com

Days of Punk is a dynamic and immersive multimedia exhibition, celebrating the raw energy and rebellious spirit of punk, post-punk, and new wave music from 1978 to 1991.

Featuring over one hundred black-and-white and color photographs by Los Angelesbased photographer and director Michael Grecco, this electrifying collection captures a defining era in music history. His work encapsulates the unrestrained passion, defiance, and innovation that defined the era’s musical landscape.

Thursday, November 6, 2025 | Presentation 6-6:45 p.m.

Reception following hosted by the Huntsville Museum of Art Guild Members $45 Non-members $65 | Tickets available at hsvmuseum.org As a photojournalist for the Associated Press from 1978 to 1983 and later a staff photographer for the Boston Herald, Grecco honed his skills capturing pivotal moments in history. Grecco’s journey into punk rock photography began in Boston, where he attended Boston University as a broadcasting and film student with a minor in photojournalism. His dual life – by day a respectable journalist, by night an embedded chronicler of punk’s most notorious acts – gave him unparalleled access to a revolutionary musical movement.

Downtown Huntsville | hsvmuseum.org | 256.535.4350

© Michael Grecco Productions, Inc./Grecco.com

Presentation, Book Signing and Reception with Michael Grecco

Calendar of Events September ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------4 Rock Around the Clock Sock Hop Celebrating Burritt’s 70 Years Burritt on the Mountain 6 – 9 p.m.

September Celebration: 40 Years of Impact Huntsville Botanical Garden 6 – 10 p.m.

The National Children’s Advocacy Center is celebrating 40 years of impact locally and globally with our September Celebration at Huntsville Botanical Garden. Featuring an elegant dinner, live entertainment, and exceptional silent auction, September Celebration is the premier gala event of the year.

6 Outdoor Market Lowe Mill 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Come soak up some sunshine with us every Saturday from May 3 until October 25 at our Outdoor Markets. Vendors from all over the area will present their finest products, whether made-by-hand, second-hand or made by the earth.

Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment will host this event throughout the grounds providing patrons, pickers, and art lovers with an open-air shopping experience (weather permitting). So bring your friends, family, kids, neighbors, and even pets (on a leash) to Outdoor Markets for some guaranteed Saturday fun!

Visit our Facebook Events page for more details!

Rocket City Cocktail Festival Wick’s Family Field at Joe Davis Stadium 1 – 6 p.m.

We are organizing the Rocket City Cocktail Festival in support of Carolyn’s Kidz, our nonprofit dedicated to providing children with more opportunities.

12 Wish Night: Huntsville VBC Saturn Ballroom 6 – 10 p.m.

Make-A-Wish Alabama invites you to Huntsville Wish Night – a magical evening dedicated to transforming lives. This annual fundraising gala gathers supporters from across the region to enjoy dinner, drinks, entertainment, and powerful stories from local wish families. Guests can bid in our live and silent auctions, with all proceeds helping to grant wishes for children battling critical illnesses in North Alabama.

Help us spark hope, strength, and joy — one wish at a time.

16 Garden Soirée Huntsville Botanical Garden 5:30 – 8:30 p.m.

Garden Soirée is an elegant evening of cocktails, dinner, a special program, and a live auction – all set against the stunning backdrop of the Garden.

All proceeds benefit the Horticulture Program at Huntsville Botanical Garden, supporting the care, cultivation, and beauty of our living collections.

Downtown Rescue Mission 50th Anniversary Celebration VBC Saturn Ballroom 6 – 9 p.m.

There will be a luncheon event and an evening event to celebrate and support the Downtown Rescue Mission. Special guests - Mike Williams and Matthew West.

18 Women Honoring Women VBC Saturn Ballroom 6 – 8:30 p.m.

Women Honoring Women (WHW) is the signature fundraising event of the WEDC Foundation (WEDCF), recognizing prominent women in our community who have created a legacy and are serving as an inspiration to others. Through 58

the inspirational WHW celebration, the WEDCF honors our community’s women leaders of today while our sponsors support the creation of women leaders of tomorrow. This is a sponsored/ticketed fundraising event, and we would love to have you join us for a night of inspiration on September 18th! All information is found on our website at www.wedcfoundation.org/whw.

19 Whiskey, Wine & Moonshine Redstone Federal Twickenham Rooftop 5:30 – 8:30 p.m.

Join our hosts, the fabulous Lynn Troy and JoAnn Perez, for a night of fine spirits, culinary perfection, and a vibrant atmosphere. Whether you’re returning or joining us for the first time, you are sure to enjoy this annual event in support of the Eighth Street Community!

25 Isaiah 41:10 Foundation’s Carnival of Giving Event Center at Roto Rooter 6 – 9 p.m.

The Foundation raises money to support families going through Childhood Cancer as well as research toward finding a cure for Childhood Cancer. The event, filled with fun games, silent auction, good food and entertainment, is free to those attending. Deadline to RSVP is September 10. To date the Foundation has raised and given away over $750,000. Please come out and support this worthwhile cause to help continue the mission to find a cure for Childhood Cancer.

October ---------------------------------------------------------------1 Space Explorers Celebration 2025 U.S. Space and Rocket Center – Davidson Center 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.

October has been designated as Space Exploration month by the City of Huntsville and Madison County. This event is planned as the first of a yearly celebration of all who have worked or are working in the Space program in Huntsville, in conjunction with the Space Explorers Wall of Honor, which displays 21,000 names of former and present employees of Marshall Space Flight Center.

18 Benefit Concert for Village of Promise Huntsville Botanical Garden, Murray Hall 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.

This benefit concert features the Allen Watkins Band, with proceeds for Village of Promise. Guests will have the opportunity to stroll through the beautiful autumn afternoon at the Huntsville Botanical Garden.

19 Maple Hill Cemetery Stroll presented by the Huntsville Pilgrimage Association Maple Hill Cemetery 1:30 – 4:30 p.m.

Join us for the beloved Maple Hill Cemetery Stroll. History comes alive with over 60 costumed characters, exhibits, music and scavenger hunts. Don’t miss this Huntsville tradition! All ages welcome. Donations for cemetery restoration encouraged.

30 Summit on Philanthropy VBC Saturn Ballroom 6 – 8 p.m.

The Summit on Philanthropy event celebrates and inspires local generosity, including honoring the recipients of the Community Foundation of Greater Huntsville’s Community Philanthropy Awards. This award is presented annually to honor an individual or family that exemplifies the spirit of generosity in our community.

Huntsville Happenings Written by Jennifer Moore, Pres./CEO Huntsville/Madison County Convention and Visitors Bureau

Fall ushers in a season rich with color, tradition, and community gatherings. This time of year is perfect for reconnecting with nature, enjoying the changing of the leaves, and preparing for the cozy months ahead. Whether you’re seeking spirited celebrations or a peaceful escape into nature, fall offers a calendar full of moments to savor.

It is the opportune time to venture outside and enjoy a scenic hike at Monte Sano State Park or one of the many greenways or Land Trust Trails in the area.

Stroll through the Huntsville Botanical Garden. Take photos at one of our parks or shop at local farmers markets. Enjoy cheering on the Rocket City Trash Pandas or the Huntsville City Football Club as they wrap up their 2025 seasons.

Autumn also brings a wealth of cultural and creative events. September is Music Month in Huntsville, and it’s packed with events at venues across the community.

Jazz in the Park is back on Sundays in September, and the Huntsville Music Office has a cool lineup of performers for this popular (and free) concert series.

Check out events at the Von Braun Center, Orion Amphitheater, Stovehouse, and more.

October 4 in historic downtown Madison. The Huntsville Museum of Art recently reopened and has a variety of artwork and exhibits to view and enjoy.

We invite you to visit the Huntsville/Madison County Visitor Center at 500 Church Street NW in downtown Huntsville, where our staff is ready to share ideas for making your fall unforgettable. Watch for our new mobile Visitor Center on the road and at area events. We’re excited to add a fresh way to promote the Rocket City as a fantastic place to visit.

The activities mentioned above are just some of the many options available in September, October, and November. You can also use our Passport Coupons to help stretch your budget. Visit www.huntsville.org for updates on events and unique autumn experiences happening here!

View the entire Huntsville Happenings article (including ongoing, recurring and special events) on Huntsville EVENT’s website at eventhuntsville.com/ HuntsvilleHappenings. n

Art walks and festivals highlight local talent and offer perfect opportunities to explore the community. Purchase a piece of art at the Monte Sano Art Festival, September 20-21, or stop by the Madison Street Festival on Saturday,

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Parting Shot

Photo by Lori Boatfield

The “Lady in the Wind” rock formation in Lower Antelope Canyon in Page, Ariz., is a stunning example of a natural sculpture.

The iconic feature is an example of the canyon’s geological processes, shaped by millions of years of erosion and wind.

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