Lacey Spear
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Articles by Lacey Spear
This 'people person' found the key to leveling up her healthcare career
Sponsored Jada Brooks’s smile lights up the room when she walks into it. It could be because she’s done pageants her whole life, but there’s also something else to it. Recently, Jada took her passion for people and leadership to the next level by getting her Master of Health Administration (MHA). Read the full story to learn about how she plans to grow as a leader in Huntsville. Ready to enhance your leadership skills? Check out UNA’s MHA today. Sponsored by:
This student scored a top engineering job at 19—find out how now | Bham Now
Sponsored When I hear Huntsville engineers talk about their jobs, I’m impressed. But when I hear of a local student scoring a top job with the Missile Defense Agency at 19 years old, I’m floored. I got to sit down and chat with Athens native Ethan Dorning on how he made it happen. Read the full story for all the details. Ready to gain the skills you need to thrive in Huntsville’s engineering sphere? Check out UNA’s Department of Computer Science today. Sponsored by:
Alabama A&M researcher discovers new bat species in Alabama
A researcher from Alabama A&M University has discovered a new bat species in Alabama. Dr. William Stone made the discovery earlier this month during the annual Alabama Bat Blitz at Cathedral Caverns in Scottsboro. Here’s what to know: During the annual Alabama Bat Blitz, Stone captured the first Eastern small-footed bat (Myotis leibii) ever recorded in Alabama.
One EDBA grad will change your view of rural Alabama communities now
Sponsored Shawn (Shirwan) Jyawook is one of the most impressive people I’ve ever met. He immigrated from the Middle East, started and sold two successful companies and now has made history as the first Executive Doctor of Business Administration (EDBA) graduate from the University of North Alabama (UNA). Read on to learn more about his successful journey and interesting discoveries about rural Alabama communities.
Huntsville stays among Best Places to Live in new U.S. News list
For the third year in a row, Huntsville has made the top 10 in U.S. New & World Report’s Best Places to Live list. After finished no. 1 in 2022 and second in 2023, the Rocket City remained on the list this year at no. 7. Here’s more: This year, U.S. News adjusted its scoring weights for stronger considerations of a city’s value and job market, and Huntsville still made the list for the third straight year. Here are the 10 Best Places to Live according to U.S. News: Naples, Fla.
Moving to Huntsville? 5 ways these local companies make it easy
Sponsored As a Huntsville newcomer and someone who’s moved three times in the past four years, I can attest to the fact that moving is hard—even when you’re excited about it. If you’re in the process of moving to Huntsville, rest assured. We found two top local companies that will make your move a breeze, and offer tips I wish I had during my move last year. Nothing sounds worse to me than coordinating logistics with two different moving companies across the country.
8 new home listings you should check out here in the Huntsville area
Sponsored If you’re looking for a new Huntsville home this season, check out these amazing listings! We’ve featured 8 properties for you – have a look and see what catches your eye.
Rent prices in Huntsville metro now among highest in Alabama
Like many costs of living these days, rent has increased significantly over the years, especially in the Huntsville metro area. In fact, a look at Fair Market Rent currently in the Huntsville MSA shows an increase of more than 20 percent over the last year. Here’s where Fair Market Rent stands in the Huntsville metro: According to RentData.org, Fair Market Rent prices in Huntsville are high compared to the national average. This FMR area is more expensive than 87 percent of other FMR areas.
3 generations went to the same local college—why they love it | Bham Now
Sponsored The Taylors have been taking one local college by storm for 75 years now. From working in healthcare and finances to marketing and local music, they’ve improved North Alabama and beyond. Read the full story to learn more about their experiences at The University of North Alabama (UNA) and an inside look at what the youngest Taylor is up to today. Looking for the right university for you? Check out UNA today. Sponsored by:
One mother's amazing journey turning pain into purpose â Cara Welsh's story
In honor of Mother’s Day this past weekend, we asked Huntsville mothers to share their unique stories with us. Cara Welsh is a working mom of three who was diagnosed with cancer during her second pregnancy. After a challenging divorce, Welsh quickly had to learn how to juggle single parenthood, her illness and everything else life threw her way. Eight years later, Welsh has found herself in a much happier place, but her journey was everything but easy.
3 generations went to the same local college—why they love it
Sponsored The Taylors have been taking one local college by storm for 75 years now. From working in healthcare and finances to marketing and local music, they’ve improved North Alabama and beyond. Read on to learn more about their experiences at The University of North Alabama (UNA) and an inside look at what the youngest Taylor is up to today. The first Taylor to attend UNA was Dr. Lee Taylor, a ’63 graduate who attended the university when it was still called Florence State Teacher’s College.
The ultimate newcomer's guide to Huntsville (tips included)
Sponsored You’ve seen the Rocket City win countless awards, you’ve just landed your dream job and you’re moving to Huntsville. It can be easy to feel overwhelmed stepping into a new city—that’s why we’ve got you covered with the best places to eat, enjoy the arts, buy a house and more. Read on for the ultimate Rocket City crash course. The first thing you need to know about Huntsville is that it’s an impressive city.
New grants to pave way for improvements to Holmes Ave., Governors Dr.
Two of Huntsville’s most traveled roads are due for some improvements, and some new grant applications approved by the city aim to do just that. Holmes Avenue and Governors Drive could get some much-needed improvements with these federal grants. The City will move forward with applications for two U.S. Department of Transportation grants focusing on safety and traffic congestion on these busy roadways in the downtown area following City Council approval.
Better than a coffee shop: work + study at an amazing French bakery
Sponsored If you’re looking for a relaxing spot to crank out work or treat yourself, check out our favorite recent discovery. Located in South Huntsville, Le Macaron is a sweet little French bakery with pastries, lunch, coffee and more. From the friendly French owners and tasty treats to the free books and wifi, this spot is somewhere you’ll want to stay a while. Read on for all the details. If you’ve never met MIichele and Pascal Auburtin, you’re in for a treat.
8 Huntsville-area listings on the market right now
Sponsored Whether you’re looking in Athens or Meridianville, we’ve got you covered. Check out these eight Huntsville-area listings you don’t want to miss.
NEW: The rocket test stand on the arsenal to be removed
Marshall Space Flight Center has announced plans for a large-scale update to its campus which includes the removal of several pieces of space history including the rocket test stands and the neutral buoyancy tank. The plans will also expand the campus in the coming decade. At one point, the rocket test stand at Marshall (formally called the Dynamic Test Stand) was the largest structure in Alabama.
NOW OPEN: AIM Academy preschool 15 minutes from downtown Huntsville
Sponsored All parents want the world for their children, which means that picking child care you trust is nearly impossible. Enter AIM Academyâa premier neighborhood preschool in Meridianville that checks all the boxes. Plus, it’s just a 15-minute drive from downtown Huntsville. Keep scrolling to see why AIM stands out from other preschools, and how you can reserve your spot today.
New soccer field expansion opens in time for AHSAA championships
City officials cut the ribbon Tuesday signifying the opening of the new Loretta P. Spencer Complex at John Hunt Park. The complex, named after former mayor Loretta Spencer is open just in time for Huntsville to host the AHSAA soccer championships. The dedication was approved last year. The $12 million, 20-acre championship-caliber sports facility will be used for all multipurpose field sports – soccer, lacrosse, ultimate Frisbee and more.
'Good snake or bad snake?' Here's how to coexist with snakes
The weather has warmed up, and that means our slithery reptile neighbors are out of hiding.
Meet Miss Baker—the famous squirrel monkey who made space history | Bham Now
Sponsored You’ve heard of Neil Armstrong and John Glenn, but did you know there’s a famous monkeynaut that changed space history? If you’re a Huntsville newcomer like me, you may not be familiar with the story of Miss Baker—the famous squirrel monkey who successfully blasted off to space and spent most of her life at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center (USSRC). Read the full story to learn more about Miss Baker’s story and find out where you can see a local show about her and enjoy a monkeynaut party.
Meet Miss Baker‚ÄĒHuntsville's famous squirrel monkey who made space history
Sponsored You’ve heard of Neil Armstrong and John Glenn, but did you know there’s a famous monkeynaut that changed space history? If you’re a Huntsville newcomer like me, you may not be familiar with the story of Miss Baker‚ÄĒthe famous squirrel monkey who successfully blasted off to space and spent most of her life at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center (USSRC). Read on to learn more about Miss Baker’s story and find out where you can see a local show about her and enjoy a monkeynaut party.
8 Huntsville-area homes on the market right now
Sponsored With around 25 people moving to Madison County every day, it’s never been more important to know about some of the best houses on the market. Check out some of these great Huntsville-area homes.
Here are the most expensive homes on the market in the Huntsville area
Real estate these days is not cheap, as you may have discovered from our recent report on real estate trends in the Huntsville area. But there are some real estate listings that makes most folks just say, “Wow!” Well, we have a few of those here in this guide. Here are some of the most expensive homes on the market in the Huntsville area: North Alabama includes some old and distinguished neighborhoods that can also feature some pretty pricey homes.
What helped one working mom thrive during the master’s program that led to her new job
Sponsored Montrese Williams at Railroad Park in Birmingham (Jacob Blankenship / Hville Blast) Montrese Williams is a married working mom of two young daughters who finished her master’s degree this past December. This May, when she graduates from The University of Alabama Culverhouse College of Business‘ Online Master of Science in Marketing, she will have more than a degree to celebrate—she has a brand new job and a world of possibilities open to her. Sponsored by:
10 Alabama communities hosting FREE program for college interns—Apply by May 31
Sponsored This summer, Fuel Alabama (FuelAL)—a talent attraction and retention program—is teaming up with 10 communities across the state to offer professional development, service opportunities, mentorship and social events to interns. If you, or someone you know, is a current college intern in Alabama, this is a great FREE opportunity to discover more about the city you’re interning in.
Alabama A&M to make bid for Birmingham-Southern campus
In an effort to increase its visibility in Alabama’s largest metro, Alabama A&M University may make an attempt to purchase the Birmingham-Southern College campus. Birmingham-Southern will cease operations at the end of May, and the 192-acre campus will be up for sale. A purchase by AAMU could continue the growth of the university with a Birmingham campus. Without a doubt, purchasing the Birmingham-Southern campus could mean a huge boost to enrollment at AAMU.
This math major is thriving in the software field in Huntsville—find out why now
Sponsored If you’re like me, math is not your cup of tea. But if you’re Ashton Haralson, it’s the reason you’re in the software field in Huntsville. Read on to learn why this math major is crushing her career and how you can too. Born and raised in Florence, Ashton graduated from Wilson High School, where she was Valedictorian and a majorette in the band. Because of her love for band, she had her eyes set on the University of North Alabama (UNA)—known for having one of the best bands in the state.
This math major is thriving in the software field—find out why now | Bham Now
If you’re like me, math is not your cup of tea. But if you’re Ashton Haralson, it’s the reason you’re in the software field in Huntsville. Read the full story to learn why this math major is crushing her career and how you can too. If you enjoy hands-on activities and interactive learning, check out UNA’s math major.
How to vacay like a local in Gulf Shores + Orange Beach right now—food, parks + more | The Bama Buzz
Sponsored Summer is almost here, Bama, which means beach trips are in the cue. Locals know all the top spots and tips for getting the best Gulf Coast experience. So before you slip on that tropical shirt and slather sunscreen on your nose, we’ve included seven spots below that will have you vacationing like a local during your next visit to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Here are seven ways to vacay like a local in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.
5 Huntsville-area home listings you need to check out now
Sponsored If you’re looking for a new Huntsville home this season, check out these amazing listings! We’ve featured 5 properties for you – have a look and see what catches your eye.
4 reasons why you should visit Elkmont, Alabama this summer
There are many beautiful places to explore in North Alabama and you can find many along the Tennessee-Alabama state line. Next time you’re traveling through North Alabama, make sure to stop in Elkmont to get your fix of an old town with lots of rich history. Keep reading to see why you should make a stop in Elkmont this summer. When driving through Elkmont, you may not think there is much to look at but their town is full of old and historic buildings and homes.
From African rhinos to poultry labs—all you can experience through this Auburn program now | Bham Now
Sponsored What do African rhinos, local businesses and poultry farms have in common? Way more than you might think! We got to chat with three successful students at Auburn’s College of Agriculture about the unique internships they worked. Keep reading to learn about their experiences and how you can find great opportunities, too. Last summer, Auburn Agriculture student Mary Crawford packed up her bags and headed to South Africa for a once-in-a-lifetime internship experience.
New: Huntsville Hospital Clinic opens at Redstone Gateway
Huntsville Hospital held the ribbon-cutting ceremony for a new clinic on Tuesday at Redstone Gate 9. The Huntsville Hospital clinic is the first of a new design and will be open to patients on May 1. Here are a few quick facts about the facility: The new 10,000-square-foot facility is located right before Redstone Arsinal Gate 9 and will help serve the 40,000+ people who work and live near the gate.
Here's what homes are selling for in the Huntsville area now
The Huntsville area is not only one of the state’s hottest markets, but it’s one of the fastest growing and most desirable cities in the country right now. If you have been keeping up, you know that homes are selling for much higher than they were just a few years ago here.
Check out these new businesses here in the Huntsville area
This week we have multiple new businesses here in the Huntsville area to tell you about. From new spots to eat to healthcare facilities, the Rocket City’s business community continues to grow. Check out these new businesses here in the Huntsville area: This new health and wellness center offers all kinds of ways to make yourself look and feel better. Revive Clinic opens April 29. Where: 3490 Harris Blvd.
The story + family behind Huntsville's most beautiful coworking space
Sponsored Nestled in the heart of historic Lincoln Mill is Coin Coworking—one of Huntsville’s most beautiful office spaces. Read on to learn more about the incredible family behind it and how they’re connecting the Huntsville community. Will and Claire fell in love while they were in college at Auburn University. Soon after, they married and happily settled down in Arab for 11 years, serving at a local church. When not working at the church, Claire enjoyed reading and Will loved being outdoors.
Panoply is April 26-28—check out amazing local artists, musicians + more
Sponsored Did you know that every year, one of the Southeast’s premier art festivals happens right here in Huntsville? Read on for all the details on Panoply, including participating artists, how to grab tickets and more. Panoply is for everyone—it’s an all-inclusive, family-friendly event.
6 unique events on Alabama’s beaches worth the drive this summer
Sponsored Gorgeous hot air balloons, mullet tosses + much more. (Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism) Summer is just around the corner, Birmingham, which can only mean it’s time to plan a trip to Alabama’s beaches. From music festivals and car shows to hot air balloon fun and more, these must-attend summer events are perfect for all ages. We have everything you need to know. Book your stay on Alabama’s Beaches now. Sponsored by: Liv George A Georgia native soaking up the sun on the Gulf Coast.
5 Huntsville-area homes you need to see
Sponsored From Athens to Grant, these Huntsville-area homes are excellent opportunities. Take a look inside these listings and see what catches your eye.
9 Farmers Markets open now across Alabama
Something about this beautiful spring weather has me craving strawberries. If you feel the same way, then you’ll want to check out this list of nine farmers markets across the state that are already open – or will be open this weekend.
Your guide to Geico 500 weekend at Talladega
The first of two major race weekends in Talladega has arrived as campers, RVs and thousands of people will soon fill the infield of one of the largest racing venues in the country. The Talladega Superspeedway will host the Geico 500 this weekend with events happening all weekend before the big race Sunday afternoon.
8 amazing upcoming Birmingham events—wine, racing, homesteading + more
Sponsored Have the best spring in Birmingham. (Magic City Wine Fest / Facebook) Whether you’re interested in tasting fine wines, watching action-packed races or learning homesteading skills, you can find it all in Birmingham. Read the full story for these can’t-miss Birmingham events. Want to add more items to your Birmingham trip agenda? Visit InBirmingham.com and follow the Bham CVB @inbirmingham on socials Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | LinkedIn Sponsored by: Advertisement
Swan Lake, Crawfish Fest + 13 more amazing events this weekend
Get ready for the weekend, folks! There’s plenty going on this weekend in and around Huntsville — from markets to music — and we think there’s something for everyone over the next few days. Do you know of an event you think our readers might enjoy? Add your event for free to our events calendar.
8 amazing upcoming Birmingham events worth the drive
Sponsored Whether you’re interested in tasting fine wines, watching action-packed races or learning homesteading skills, you can find it all just an hour and a half away. Read on for can’t-miss Birmingham events and follow the Birmingham CVB to stay in the loop. Have you ever thought about pairing mimosas with NASCAR racing? Well, now’s your chance! Start your Birmingham weekend off at the Mimosa Festival on Saturday and then race over to ‘Dega to finish it with a bang.
Ground broken on new Front Row development in downtown Huntsville
Officials broke ground Tuesday on Huntsville’s latest mixed-use development, Front Row. Located across from the Von Braun Center downtown, the development will include retail, restaurant and residential units. Here’s what we know: The development will connect the area in and around the Von Braun Center, Big Spring Park, Fountain Circle, Holmes Avenue North and Northwest Downtown.
Ground broken on new Front Row development in downtown Huntsville
Officials broke ground Tuesday on Huntsville’s latest mixed-use development, Front Row. Located across from the Von Braun Center downtown, the development will include retail, restaurant and residential units. Here’s what we know: The development will connect the area in and around the Von Braun Center, Big Spring Park, Fountain Circle, Holmes Avenue North and Northwest Downtown.
6 excuses people make for not getting their MBA + tips from a local expert
We’ve all heard quotes like: “If you really want to do something, you’ll find a way. If you don’t, you’ll find an excuse.” (Jim Rohn). But what about when it comes to excuses for getting your MBA? We got an inside scoop from the Director of Graduate Business Programs at the University of North Alabama, Dr. Wes Davenport, on the top excuses people make for not getting their MBA. Read on to learn what the biggest six are and why they’re often misconceptions. Sponsored by:
NEW: Fire at Ding How II causes restaurant to close until further notice
Ding How II has temporarily closed due to a fire that broke out in the restaurant’s kitchen. Huntsville Fire & Rescue responded to the fire on Sunday, April 14 at around 12:25PM. According to their Facebook post announcing the unfortunate news, the owners stated they will be closed until further notice. The restaurant, located at 4800 Whitesburg Dr, was closed at the time of the fire and nobody was harmed.
6 excuses Huntsvillians make for not getting their MBA
Sponsored We’ve all heard quotes like: “If you really want to do something, you’ll find a way. If you don’t, you’ll find an excuse.” (Jim Rohn). But what about when it comes to excuses for getting your MBA? We got an inside scoop from Grissom High School grad, current Madison resident and Director of Graduate Business Programs at the University of North Alabama, Dr. Wes Davenport, on the top excuses people make for not getting their MBA.
City of Huntsville addresses housing issue with new initiatives
The Huntsville City Council approved two measures this week to address the city’s homeless population and its affordable housing issues. The Council allocated more than $300,000 in state funds to aid individuals facing homelessness, and approved a project to support affordable housing.
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