Curtis Venetta
Madison
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Articles by Curtis Venetta
'Magic of Madison': Chamber of Commerce to host ribbon-cutting of mural and launch of community partnership
MADISON — To celebrate Madison’s natural beauty through art, the Chamber of Commerce is hosting a ribbon-cutting Monday of a mural while also announcing a community partnership. “We are incredibly excited to bring this meaningful piece of art into our space,” said Chamber President Michelle Epling. “’Magic of Madison’ is more than a mural, it’s a celebration of our community’s landscape, identity and shared history.
NEW: Huntsville airport traffic surpasses 1 million passengers for 2024
Despite a slower August, traffic at Huntsville International Airport is on pace to set passenger records in 2024. Thus far, traffic is up 14 percent from last year and has already surpassed 1 million passengers for the year.
Weather expected to cooperate for South Star Festival (for now)
Weather is always one of the many considerations when holding an outdoor event, and as the South Star Music Festival approaches — which is expected to bring masses of people to the area — the effects of Helene in the Gulf of Mexico is certainly a consideration. According to local meteorologists, Helene is bringing rain to North Alabama, but by the time the festival starts, festival-goers should remain relatively dry.
WATCH: Huntsville natives share their opinions on pumpkin spice lattes
Check out how Huntsville natives feel about fall menu favorites. (Elizabeth Hobbs / Hville Blast) We interviewed Huntsville natives to find out their opinions on seasonal fall drinks. After visiting several downtown coffee shops, we found out that the debate remains unsettled! Check out some opinions on pumpkin spice below VIDEO Be sure to like, comment and subscribe to our YouTube channel! Do you enjoy pumpkin spice and other fall flavors?
Huntsville Animal Services celebrates 'Paws + Play' with free adoptions
Huntsville Music Month is in full swing — as it were — and Huntsville Animal Services is getting in on the celebration by offering free pet adoptions through Sept. 28.. So, if you are looking to add a four-legged friend to your family, here’s what to do: The “Paws and Play” promotion is the perfect opportunity to find a new four-legged companion while showing support for Huntsville’s creative spirit.
Experience the arts this fall in the Rocket City
Fall is coming soon, and so are the chances for some fantastic artistic events happening throughout the Huntsville area. We have some great events coming up that feature visual arts, performing arts and more.
Huntsville airport traffic on pace to set new passenger record in 2024
Huntsville airport traffic in July showed another increase over this point in 2023, and the numbers are on pace to significantly outpace last year’s traffic stats.
Epiphany Boutiques in Athens + Madison named Retailer of the Year
The 2024 Alabama Retailer of the Year is just a town over—Epiphany Boutiques located in Madison + Athens celebrated their new title yesterday. Epiphany Boutiques was nominated by Pammie Jimmar, president of the Athens-Limestone County Chamber of Commerce. A panel of judges assessed over 60 nominees across four categories on metrics such as sales, growth, community involvement and more.
Land Trust adds 2 new Huntsville properties to its footprint
The Land Trust of North Alabama has expanded its footprint in Huntsville with the acquisition of property at two Huntsville preserves. The land additions tack on 18.5 acres to the organization’s preservation efforts. The first property, atop Green Mountain near Riverview Road in South Huntsville, was received as a donation from Jeanne Byrd.
Jump into fall with these 9 fall events, including NEW family + adults-only Halloween festivities
It may still feel like summer, but you can start getting ready for the fall season with these fun Halloween and fall events coming up in Huntsville. Don’t let any hour go to waste—especially golden hours. Watch the sunset and enjoy the beauty of the Huntsville Botanical Garden at the weekly evening fall events below. Weekly events: Global Rhythym & Blooms | Celebrate Huntsville’s diverse culture with a series of immersive experiences.
NEW: Warby Parker coming to Bridge Street on September 14th
Do you need a new eyewear/eyecare option? You’re in luck! Warby Parker will be celebrating its Bridge Street grand opening on September 14th. At Warby Parker, you can check out a wide array of eyewear and eyecare products and services, including: Designer-quality eyeglass styles (starting at $95) Contacts Vision tests Eye exams Additionally, for every pair of eyeglasses or sunglasses bought, Warby Parker donates a pair to someone in need.
7 Huntsville-based bands our followers told us to check out
We asked our followers who your favorite Huntsville-based bands are, and you delivered with countless recommendations. Huntsville’s music scene is alive and well—here are 7 local bands that rose to the top as favorites of many. Your local band recommendations One highly repeated recommendation is Them Damn Dogs. As an Athens native, even I have heard the name around Huntsville for years. Them Damn Dogs are a spunky, upbeat alt rock band that formed in 2012.
NEW coffee shop coming to Madison + a coffee stand you can check out now
If you’ve been wondering when more coffee shops in Madison will open up, you’re in luck. MAD Espresso is opening up a Madison spot soon, plus they currently have a coffee stand where you can get your favorite lattes now. MAD Espresso is owned by a brother duo—Josh and Daniel Riggs. They are originally from Spain but moved to the U.S. with their family after high school. Josh later returned to Europe, spending time in Spain and Germany—where he met his wife.
Labor Day: here's what's open + closed in the Huntsville area
Monday is Labor Day, and as such, many businesses and services will be closed.or will have adjusted hours. Here’s a look at the Labor Day status some of the places here in the Huntsville area: Being a federal holiday, Labor Day means all federal offices are closed, as well as all stock markets.
5 exciting Oktoberfest events happening in Huntsville
As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, the Rocket City is gearing up to celebrate Oktoberfest in style. Whether you’re looking to enjoy traditional German music, savor hearty bratwursts and pretzels or raise a stein with friends, Huntsville has a variety of events inviting you to join in on the festivities.
New Huntsville Transit Center ready to open for business
Huntsville officials cut the ceremonial ribbon for the new Huntsville Transit Center at 501 Pratt Avenue Thursday. The much-anticipated depot will officially open Sept 3. Here’s more on this new addition to the Rocket City: The Huntsville Transit Center project was made possible by a $12.5 million grant from the Federal Transit Administration, which will cover 80% of the cost with the City funding the remainder.
Here are 15 cool events you should check out this weekend in the Rocket City
This weekend is a holiday weekend, so you shouldn’t have to look far for fun stuff to do in and around Huntsville. Obviously, college football starts this weekend so some of you may be parked in front of the TV at some point or another Saturday, but there’s plenty to do when you do get out of the house. Here are some suggestions: The Trash Pandas host the Tennessee Smokies for all weekend.
5 vintage bars you need to visit in Huntsville
Have you ever wanted to step back in time and experience fine dining and spirits in a unique atmosphere? Until we gain access to a handy time machine, you can simulate that exact experience right in the heart of Downtown Huntsville.
New state program aims to lure entrepreneurs to Huntsville
Huntsville has already gained a worldwide reputation for innovation, and a new state program has been established to lure more entrepreneurs to the Rocket City to add to the city’s population of innovative business minds. Here’s more on the Sweet Home Alabama Grant: The Sweet Home Alabama Grant was established this year to give monetary incentives to entrepreneurs to live and work in Huntsville.
City approves Madison Parks and Recreation's new mobile app
The City of Madison has approved a new mobile app for Madison Parks and Recreation, which will help residents utilize the City of Madison’s recreation programs. The Madison Parks and Recreation App is a fully responsive community portal, that will launch soon. Here’s more info: For several months, Madison Parks and Rec has focused much of its effort on developing a mobile-compatible experience for community members. “The community participated in our surveys, and we listened to their needs.
Here are 5 fall hiking excursions you need to try in North Alabama
Fall is coming in just a few weeks, and being outdoors during autumn weather is about as pleasant as you can get here in Alabama. So why not get out in nature and enjoy the season with a few hiking excursions? Here are five guided hikes you can take over the next few months: This hike will start with an easy walk on the Bethel Creek Loop Trail, but get a bit more challenging as the route follows the Carpenter and Falling Sink Trails up to Madison County’s largest waterfall. When: Sept.
Celebrate National Red Wine Day at these fantastic local spots
August 28, if you did not know, is National Red Wine Day. And if you actually needed a reason to drink red wine, Wednesday is the day to do it. Last year, Americans consumed 899 gallons of red wine — which averages out to 2.7 gallons per person — so celebrating red wine shouldn’t be a foreign concept here in the states.
Here's the new Health Score Honor Roll for August 2024
The Madison County Health Department has inspected more than 150 restaurants in the area during the month of August. As a public service, Hville Blast reports monthly Madison County Health Department restaurant scores, featuring those eateries with health scores of 95 or better on their inspection (we excluded private eateries like school or business cafeterias and private clubs and limited food service establishments).
Why this local professor became an expert in AI
Sponsored When he’s not giving Ted Talks or coaching his daughter’s soccer team, Dr. Carter is helping North Alabama businesses leverage AI—the smart way. Read on to learn how he became an AI expert, plus some great programs where you can learn more about AI. Dr. Justin Carter is originally from Hoover, Alabama, but has lived in Florence for the past five years with his wife Jennifer and three children. The family also has a handful of unique pets—two dogs, two hermit crabs and one hamster.
NEW: Huntsville's Public Art Trail will expand into Medical District
Construction began this week to build a new sculpture on Huntsville Hospital’s lawn along Governor’s Drive. The sculpture, which will stand at 21 feet tall and 25 feet wide, will connect Downtown Huntsville’s Public Art Trail to the Medical District. The sculpture will be called “Moon Gate” and is designed by local artist and UAH Professor of Art Glenn Dasher. The piece was commissioned by the King family in memory of the late Olin B.
NEW: Huntsville Beautification Awards recognizes 300+ properties
The Huntsville Beautification Board recognized over 300 properties at the 49th annual Beautification Awards ceremony on Thursday. These awards honor organizations in Huntsville that go above and beyond in landscaping and maintaining their properties to enhance the city’s appearance. Since 1975, this program has celebrated Huntsville properties that meet the environmental standards set by the Green Team.
NEW: 7 Brew Coffee to potentially open new location in Madison
7 Brew Coffee, a popular drive-thru coffee shop known for its hand-crafted custom drinks, might be landing a new location in Madison on Highway 72. The proposed site is in the vacant lot in front of Lowe’s Home Improvement. Huntsville’s first 7 Brew Coffee opened last April, and you can also find two shops in Decatur. You’ll find a little bit of everything at 7 Brew — no matter what you order, your drink is sure to be packed with irresistible flavor to start your day with.
Huntsville miracle story—how this nurse went from healthy to heart attack to healed - Hville Blast
Sponsored It’s not every day you get to hear a Huntsville miracle story. Read on to learn how Sandra’s life completely changed in April 2023 and why she finds her career even more meaningful than before. Ever since Sandra picked up a Mickey Mouse first aid book in her little town’s library in third grade, she knew she wanted to be a nurse. She launched her nursing career right after college in Southeast Texas—where she’s originally from—before moving to Huntsville with her husband in 2001.
Huntsville Music Month to feature new events for 2024
September is coming soon, and that means Huntsville Music Month is almost upon us. The City of Huntsville officially announced the schedule of events for the month, which includes the first edition of the South Star Music Festival.
5 Space Themed Restaurants in the Rocket City
Huntsville and space go together like peanut butter and jelly. The history and culture around space have seeped into every aspect of our city, from schools to restaurants. Here are 5 space themed restaurants in Huntsville: The Moon Bakeshop serves a unique blend of Southern and European-inspired baked goods and some of the best coffee drinks in town. Their menu changes all the time, so you’ll never know what baked goods are awaiting you on your next visit.
Everything you need to know about the supermoon happening tonight
The next full Moon will occur this afternoon, Monday, Aug. 19, and it will be a spectacle you won’t want to miss. This full Moon will be what is known as a “supermoon,” which means our Moon will be within 90% of its closest approach to Earth. Simply put, supermoons are biggest and brightest full Moons you’ll ever witness. You can catch the next one in the night sky starting tonight, and it will be visible for the following three days.
You could WIN a $100 local gift card when you sign up for our FREE newsletter
Do you love being up-to-date on all the happenings in the Rocket City? With Hville Blast is Huntsville’s go-to for info on entertainment, new business openings, jobs, food, outdoor activities and fun ways to get involved in our lovely community. And here’s a win/win proposition for you: you can stay in the know on what’s happening in and around Huntsville AND have a chance to win a $100 gift card at the same time. How?
Showers Center patrons can give input on new programs at public meeting
The City of Huntsville is inviting patrons of the Dr. Richard Showers, Sr. Recreation Center to help shape the future programming and amenities of the facility. A public meeting is scheduled for Aug. 20 at the center starting at 6PM. Here’s more: The Showers Center boasts a wide range of facilities designed to cater to diverse community needs, including an indoor pool, meeting rooms, outdoor walking track, splash pad and basketball courts.
NEW: UAH student wins U.S. Department of Energy competition
The U.S. Department of Energy recently held a national competition designed to hone cybersecurity skills and visibility by challenging students to face off in simulated cyber-focused scenarios centered on securing operational energy technology from adversarial forces. UAH student Hunter Wittenborn came away as the winner.
Check out these cool + exciting events this weekend in Huntsville
If you are looking for something fun to do this weekend in the Huntsville area, you have plenty of options to choose from. From live music to sports and outdoors, you can surely find something in the Rocket City to get into this weekend. Here’s a look: With over 15 local food trucks serving up a diverse array of dishes, there’s something for every palate at this Friday’s Food Truck Rally. When: Aug.
Catch some amazing local theater productions this fall
The Huntsville area is home to some pretty awesome local theater groups, and this fall is a great time to catch some amazing local theater productions around town. Check out these shows coming up in the next few months: If you are into Sherlock Holmes stories, you will love this production from Theatre Huntsville. The play picks up after the supposed death of Sherlock Holmes at the Reichenbach Falls, as Watson struggles with his friend’s apparent demise. When: Sept.
WATCH NOW: We asked Turbo Coffee to make us their favorite drink
Turbo Coffee is a spectacular location to grab a cup of coffee in the Huntsville area. They have a wide menu of different coffee, tea, hot food, açaí bowls and more — it’s hard to pick just one favorite menu item. That being said, we put one of their friendly baristas, Lucy, to the test and asked her which drink is her favorite to make.
NEW: Vertical House Records to temporarily relocate for the coming weeks
Vertical House Records, Ida Mae Vintage and White Rabbit Studios will be temporarily moving from their current Railroad Room units to Studio 150 at Lowe Mill. Vertical House Records posted the news to their Instagram story on Tuesday, Aug. 13 that their floors need to be repaired, so they will be relocating for the next few weeks. The trio of shops need your help minimizing how much they’re moving to Studio 150.
New trail now open at Green Mountain Nature Preserve
One of Huntsville’s beautiful nature preserves has opened a new trail, as the Land Trust of North Alabama officially opened Green Mountain Trail North. This trail gives hikers access to a new part of the preserve. Here’s more: Located off of SE South Shawdee Road on top of the mountain, the new 3.2-mile trail features rocky terrain in a forest setting with primary access from Riverview Drive.
Local expert weighs in on social media's new role in commerce + more business news
Sponsored What started as a way for college students to stay in touch with each other has exploded into a multi-faceted phenomenon, as social media has grown to play a part in a bevy of everyday faucets of life — including business. Love it or hate is, social media’s role in business today are significant — from job creation to finding new customers — and we were able to get some deep insight into those roles from the University of North Alabama’s Sanders College of Business & Technology .
Nonstop flights to New York City — about the new $1 million Port of Huntsville grant - Hville Blast
The board of directors at the Port of Huntsville airport recently submitted an application for a $1 million grant aimed at launching nonstop air service from the Huntsville International Airport (HSV) to the New York City market. Just this February, Breeze Airways added nonstop flights to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) from HSV. HSV has also seen a significant upward trend in airline traffic this year compared to 2023.
Restaurant Week in Athens is now underway—here's what to know - Hville Blast
This week is a special one for foodies in Athens, as the Downtown Athens Restaurant Week is now underway. During Restaurant Week, the city’s finest eateries will offer new menu items, special offers and more as they showcase the city’s bright culinary scene. From August 11-25, 2024, restaurant enthusiasts will have the chance to indulge in a delectable array of dishes and explore downtown Athens’s diverse culinary offerings.
Microwave Dave to kick off reopening of The Lumberyard
This year will be the 10th for Microwave Dave Day, a celebration of local musicians, educators and of course- Microwave Dave. This year’s event will take it back to where it all started, The Lumberyard. Microwave Dave & The Nukes have been performing and preserving the Blues since their formation in 1989. They’ve since become a staple of North Alabama and gained international recognition.
WATCH: Huntsville Foodies Favorite Restaurants!
One of McCarley’s favorites BeezR. (Hville Blast) We often ask our followers for their thoughts on local spots around town when we post guides on places to eat or things to do. But now it’s our turn, the Hville Blast team is sharing their favorite restaurants in and around Huntsville: Our Favorite Restaurants VIDEO Be sure to like, comment and subscribe to our YouTube channel! Want to keep up with all the growth happening in Huntsville?
Alabama A&M headed to California for Battle of the Bands
Alabama A&M University’s Marching Maroon and White band is headed to the 2025 Battle of the Bands in California. This week, the band accepted a challenge invitation from the North Carolina A&T State University marching band to secure its spot in the event, to be held February 1, 2025. The Marching Maroon and White will be one of six HBCU bands to perform at the 2025 Honda Battle of the Bands at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California.
3 antique stores in Athens, including new Frank's Good Stuff
Athens has become a hub for high-quality, curated antiques with shops like these. Central to Birmingham, Nashville and Huntsville, the Athens antique scene is worth the drive if you’re on the hunt for unique life-long pieces. With several niche vendors, you’ll find a wide range of high-end to affordable one-of-a-kind vintage pieces. Whether you love kitschy collectibles, mid century modern classics or rustic interiors, you’re sure to find something here.
NEW: Shagnasty's Grubbery + Pour House to stay open
Shagnasty’s Grubbery & Pour House, a popular bar in Huntsville, has announced that they will be reopening soon. This comes after their previous announcement on Monday, Aug. 5 that they would be permanently closing, effective immediately. The original post claimed the bar would have a liquidation sale on Saturday, Aug. 10, but this sale has now been canceled. They have updated their original Facebook post and made a second, separate announcement, which is linked above.
Fall armyworms β how to treat them + save your lawn
Fall armyworms are an invasive species native to eastern and central North America and throughout South America. The armyworm is the name given to the larval stage (the most destructive stage) of the insect, which later grows into a moth. They are attracted to wet conditions and long grasses, and are extremely damaging, leaving glass blades ragged or creating large bare spots in one’s lawn.
September concerts in the Rocket City you'll want to check out
We have been able to host some pretty awesome concerts here in the Huntsville area so far this year, and September in the Rocket City promises to bring even more cool shows. Here are a few September concerts you should definitely check out: The legendary Lauryn Hill comes to the Orion Amphitheater with The Fugees, as part of their “The Celebration Continues” tour. When: Sept.
Saturdays for the boys—5 activities for guys to hang out - Hville Blast
For guys, it can be hard to get out there and be social. Are you itching for a catch up day with some of your friends? Here’s a list of activities to do in Huntsville that’ll be sure to get you off out of the house and into a fun and friendly spirit. It should go without saying that none of these activities are for men exclusively. But sometimes, we need a guide to push us into being active because of a lack of creativity. Here’s some ideas for a guy’s day in Huntsville.
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