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Articles by Patrick Byington
ADECA surplus auction: Bid on boats, vehicles and more from Aug. 22–30
Surplus Property. (Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs) The Surplus Property Division of the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) is holding its quarterly online auction beginning on Saturday, August 22, 8:00AM and ending Sunday, Aug. 30. To become a qualified bidder, visit https://adeca.alabama.gov/publicauctions/. Starting on Saturday, all auction items will be listed here: https://www.govdeals.com/alabamasurplus.
Forever Wild votes to acquire 6,168 acres across Alabama in 6 counties
View from King’s Chair at Oak Mountain State Park. (The Nature Conservancy) The Forever Wild Board of Trustees voted today to acquire 6168 acres of ecologically and recreationally significant lands in Blount, Cherokee, Colbert, Dekalb, Jackson and Shelby counties. Next up, the Forever Wild team will now conduct a second appraisal, environmental studies on the property and purchase the tracts if the current landowners agree to the appraised price.
Big Spoon Creamery named one of the best ice cream shops in U.S
Alivia Hood with Big Spoon Creamery in front of the ice cream shop. (Pat Byington / Bham Now) Alabama-based Big Spoon Creamery has been named one of the most travel-worthy ice cream shops in the United States by The Washington Post (August 2026). The Post asked ice cream experts across the country to nominate standout local creameries — no chains, no grocery store brands Big Spoon made the cut alongside just six other shops from across the country.
Seen a black bear roaming in Alabama this summer? Wildlife experts say it’s completely normal
Black bear in Mobile County. (Billy Pope) Earlier this week, a big mischievous black bear has been seen roaming around the suburbs south of Birmingham in Shelby County near Oak Mountain State Park and US-280. Since then, local residents have given the bear a geographically appropriate nickname: “Shelby.” Thanks to social media, Shelby the bear has become a local celebrity. Black Bear in Mobile County.
New Randy Owen Center at Jax State honors North Alabama music legend
Ribbon cutting at the Randy Owen Center for the Performing Arts on May 26th. (City of Jacksonville, Alabama / Facebook) This week, Jacksonville State University held a ribbon-cutting ceremony officially opening the Randy Owen Center for Performing Arts (ROC).
NEW NESTLINGS: 2 baby eagles named at Joe Wheeler State Park
Bald eagle at Joe Wheeler State Park (Joe Wheeler State Park / Facebook) The two baby bald eagles at Joe Wheeler State Park have officially been named. Last week, Alabama State Parks posted a list of potential names for the adorable eaglets and allowed park lovers vote for their favorites. The winning names—River and Sky! Below are the results of the contest. The two baby eagles’ parents are Joe and Daniella, named after General Wheeler and his wife.
2 Huntsville restaurants recognized for best shrimp and grits
Flying Biscuit Shrimp & Grits. (Pat Byington / Hville Blast) Two popular Huntsville restaurant chains have been recognized for their special versions of shrimp and grits. According to the foodie website, Eat This, Not That, Flying Biscuit Cafe and Tupelo Honey Cafe are the best at making this uniquely southern delicacy.
The Orion named Top 10 amphitheater in the world
The Orion Amphitheater continues to prove it’s one of the top 10 amphitheaters its size in the world. Pollstar, the prestigious digital site that provides data for the global concert industry, just ranked our beloved amphitheater: #10 Worldwide Amphitheater by tickets sold #9 Worldwide Amphitheater by gross sales The mid-year ranking is based on the first half of 2025.
Memorial Day 2025: Huntsville + North Alabama gas prices and travel tips
According to AAA Alabama more than 45 million people are expected to travel at least 50 miles from home over the Memorial Day holiday period. “It is going to be the busiest Memorial Day travel holiday we’ve ever had.” Clay Ingram, AAA Alabama The good news — gas prices this Memorial Day in Huntsville and North Alabama are about 45 to 50 cents cheaper than in 2024. As of May 23, 2025, the average gas price for regular gas in Huntsville is $2.71, while at the same time in 2024 it was $3.26.
Oakwood University names Gina Spivey-Brown new president
Oakwood University named its 12th president last week, Dr. Gina Spivey-Brown. She becomes the first female president of the university, and will replace Dr. Leslie Pollard — who has served as president for the last 15 years. Dr. Gina Spivey-Brown will not only become Oakwood University’s first female president, but only the third non-clergy president in the 129-year history of the school.
Conference USA hoops tournament now underway in Huntsville
Men’s and women’s basketball teams from Conference USA have descended upon the Rocket City this week at the C-USA tournaments take place at Propst Arena at the Von Braun Center. The first game tipped off at 11:30AM today. Both the men’s and women’s Conference USA tournaments are taking place in Huntsville all week, which means the 10-team conference will bring 20 teams to the Rocket City, playing 18 games with C-USA titles and NCAA automatic bids on the line.
Here are 7 awesome concerts to look forward to in April
This spring, we have some incredible concerts headed our way here in the Rocket City. And if you just look at the month of April, you will see what we are talking about. One of country music’s rising stars, Megan Moroney brings her consistently sold out show to the Orion to kick off the spring season.
Alabama A&M thrilled to have Amazon as new Magic City Classic title sponsor
The Magic City Classic, the largest HBCU football game in the country between Alabama A&M and Alabama State University, has a new title sponsor. The new name: Amazon Magic City Classic presented by Coca-Cola. “We are thrilled to welcome Amazon as the new title sponsor of the Magic City Classic. This partnership represents a shared commitment to education, diversity and economic growth in our community.
Job seekers can browse thousands of new job listings in the Huntsville area
This week, job seekers in the Huntsville area can find a bevy of new job listings in a variety of fields — healthcare, tech, retail, food services and more — all in and around the Rocket City. Here’s who is hiring this week in the Huntsville area: As stated above, jobs in healthcare, retail and food services are in high demand here in the Huntsville area. But there are also hundreds of jobs listings for technology and engineering jobs, construction and more.
It's getting warmer—7 outdoor activities to try in Huntsville - Hville Blast
We’ve had a couple of extra cold snaps this winter, making me ready for spring to get here ASAP. Check out seven outdoor activities in Huntsville you can look forward to in the coming months. Kayaking is a hobby I’ve been wanting to pick up for a while now.
4 must-visit playgrounds in Huntsville for endless fun
Huntsville is full of playgrounds that make it easy for kids to burn off energy and for families to enjoy the outdoors. Whether you’re looking for a spot with climbing structures or wide-open spaces to run, there’s a perfect playground waiting. Playgrounds in Huntsville This inclusive playground is designed for all abilities, featuring ramps, swings, slides and sensory-friendly activities.
18 concerts in Birmingham you don't want to miss this spring + summer (plus where to eat, park + stay)
Sponsored Concert season is upon us, and I’m already marking my calendar for several shows in Birmingham (aka my favorite excuse to spend a day in the city). Is your favorite band stopping in the Magic City? With 5 unique venues (small and large), Birmingham is a popular spot for touring artists and offers plenty of sights, restaurants and more to entertain us traveling fans. As a self-proclaimed concert connoisseur, here are the shows you won’t want to miss at each venue.
City of Madison now seeking poll workers for municipal election
The City of Madison is looking for citizens to fill several positions as poll workers for the city’s upcoming municipal elections. This is a chance to get involved in the democratic process in the city, and get paid to do it! Here’s more info: To qualify, workers must be an active registered voter in the City of Madison, attend a poll worker training class and be able to work on Election Day.
If you are looking for a new job, you can browse 13K+ listings here in the Huntsville area
Those of you looking for a new job here in the Rocket City are in luck this week, as more than 13,000 jobs are listed in and around Huntsville in a variety of fields.
New museum, Bridge Street store + more new businesses in the Rocket City
The Huntsville area has some cool new businesses opening these days, with a new museum, another new shop at Bridge Street and more newcomers to the business community. Welcome these new businesses to the Rocket City: Signals is a communication technology museum providing a hands-on, immersive experience where guests can explore, interact, and learn about communication technologies throughout history. Where: 1806 University Dr, Huntsville, AL 35801 When: Opening Feb.
Your guide to Huntsville's oldest restaurants and businesses
Established in 1805, Huntsville was once a quiet cotton town but became a booming city once NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center brought thousands of engineers to the city. This ultimately earned Huntsville the beloved nickname “Rocket City.” Huntsville has a vibrant history and today we’re exploring, and today, its iconic historic shops and restaurants. Check out these 7 historic places: Founded by brothers James B. and Daniel T.
8 of our favorite spots to catch live music in Huntsville
Have you been looking for some great spots to catch live music in The Rocket City? Look no further. From bluegrass to punk, we’ve got you covered. Our favorite Huntsville spots to catch a show Since its opening, Gold Sprint has consistently hosted both local and touring bands in its industrial yet welcoming space. Grab a beer on tap or a matcha latte and enjoy the sounds of live music.
ALABAMA's June Jam on pause: What fans need to know
Organizers of June Jam, the popular country music festival hosted by the supergroup ALABAMA in downtown Fort Payne, have decided to take a year off. Below is an excerpt posted by Tony Conway, Manager of ALABAMA, Mike Smardak, co-CEO of Outback Presents and Greg Fowler, Manager of the June Jam Foundation about the decision: “We look forward bringing the Jam back in 2026.
Five Below opens new store in Madison
Five Below, the trendy high value discount store that caters to tweens, teens and beyond is officially opening its newest store in Madison. The grand opening begins Friday, February 21, 10:00AM at the 12090 County Line Rd., Madison location and will last all weekend with a lineup of activities that include music, kids’ activities and special prizes. The first 100 customers to visit the store will receive a free drawstring bag.
Top 4 North Alabama guided hikes for March
Here is some good news for all Rocket City hikers.  Sand Mountain Sam, the legendary clairvoyant opossum from Albertville, predicted an early spring this month. That means most of March will be nice and warm outdoors. Thank you Sam! Are you ready to take advantage of an early spring and hit the trails?  Our good friends at the Land Trust of North Alabama have got you covered with a handy list of four locally guided hikes for March.
Huntsville, here are 15 ways to spend your weekend
Don’t get cabin fever. Here’s 15 ways to spend your weekend. Our picks for weekend events Still have Wicked fever? You’re in luck. Join Rupaul’s Drag Race contestant Jaidynn Diore Fierce at Levity Lounge this Sunday for a sing-along drag brunch fit for a queen. Where: Levity Live: 2012 Memorial Pkwy SW, Huntsville, AL 35801 When: February 23, 2-4PM How much: $18-28 The HSO is hosting a free family concert this Saturday morning. Tickets are first-come first-serve, so make sure to arrive early.
Boeing initiates third round of Huntsville layoffs since June 2024
Boeing has informed the state of Alabama’s Department of Commerce they will be laying off 71 employees on April 18th. The news appeared on the state’s WARN list on Wednesday. This is the third time within a year Boeing has reported layoffs. In November 2024, the aerospace company reported to WARN the dismissal of 158 employees. An additional 128 employees were let go in June. Statement by Boeing The following is Boeing’s statement about the current round of layoff published by WAFF 48.
Your amazing weekend getaway in Florence—find out our top recommendations - Hville Blast
Sponsored I remember the first time I made the drive from Huntsville to Florence. I was amazed by the beauty of the North Alabama landscapes along the way, and when I arrived, I was enthralled by the charm and vibrancy of downtown Florence. Because it’s tucked away from major interstates, Florence has maintained a slow, thoughtful growth. It feels like a piece of history stuck in time yet wrapped up in innovation all at once.
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.
NEW: Lake Guntersville State Park growing? Forever Wild votes "yes"
Forever Wild Board of Trustees voted this week to move forward and acquire a 60-acre tract adjacent to Lake Guntersville State Park. Keep reading to get all the details on that, plus two more big developments for state parks. A 60-acre addition to Lake Guntersville State Park Lake Guntersville State Park—known for its Eagle Awareness programs—is growing.
NEW: Lana Del Rey records at Muscle Shoals Sound Studio [PHOTOS]
Lana Del Rey—the iconic “Summertime Sadness” singer—has been spotted at multiple Alabama spots, including Birmingham, Russellville, Florence and now, Muscle Shoals. We talked with Ana Hyde, studio and operations manager at Muscle Shoals Sound Studio, to find out the details of her visit. Here’s what the experience was like. She showed up unannounced On Friday afternoon, July 21, Ana Hyde pulled into Muscle Shoals Sound Studio’s parking after just getting back from out of town.
NEW: 279-megawatt solar project coming to Lawrence County
All the sunshine that we’ve been getting in North Alabama is about to be put to work. The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) announced today that the Lawrence County Solar Project is getting a lot of advanced solar panels. Here’s what’s happening. 279 megawatts of not-so-average solar panels Lawrence County Solar Project is a huge center of solar investment in Alabama—$1.1 billion huge. Yesterday, the TVA announced a big step for the solar project.
Slutty Vegan is coming to Huntsville—here's what we know
The renowned vegan burger joint, Slutty Vegan, is making its way toward North Alabama—and they’re stopping in Huntsville. Here’s what you need to know about the special day. Huntsville’s a stop on their Gettin’ Slutty Tour Slutty Vegan, founded by Pinky Cole and based in Atlanta, has multiple physical locations in both Georgia and Alabama. But, they’re also on the move.
'Still Playin' Possum' tribute concert to George Jones sold out
It didn’t take long for the Von Braun Center to sell out the April 25 star-studded concert “Still Playin’ Possum,” a tribute to country music legend George Jones. Tickets went on sale Dec. 22, but it only took a couple of days for the show to sell out, leaving many music fans scrambling to find tickets.
Alabama A&M community mourns death of beloved professor
The Alabama A&M University community is mourning the loss of one of its own, as retired biology professor and mentor Wiley J. Henderson died December 23. Henderson was 88 years old. Henderson was not only an icon in the AAMU community, but in the Huntsville area in general. He will be remembered not only as a popular and beloved professor at AMU, bit also for the bevy of contributions he made to the local community: Read more Wiley J.
Huntsville issues useful trash and Christmas tree disposal tips
Because of the major weather event earlier this week and the upcoming New Year’s holiday on January 2nd, the City of Huntsville has some helpful tips for residents during the first week of 2023. Read on to learn more. Expect Delays As a result of the Christmas and New Year’s holidays plus the weather event, local residents have collected more than a week’s worth of trash.
2022 in review—Huntsville's biggest headliners of the year
Facebook15LinkedInShares15 There’s always something big going on in the Rocket City, and 2022 was no exception. As we look forward to the future of our remarkable city in a new year, let’s take a moment to see what some of our biggest accomplishments were over the past 12 months 1.
COMING THIS SPRING: The Salty Cod Pub to open in downtown Athens
Historic Downtown Athens, Alabama will soon be home to a traditional British Pub. The Salty Cod Pub announced on their Facebook page they will be opening in Spring 2023. The news was confirmed by local Athens-Limestone County newspaper, the News Courier. Here are the details. The new pub will be located at 309 West Market Street, which is about a block from the Limestone County Courthouse.
TVA sets a new record power demand this past weekend
Whew, it was chilly this past weekend. Due to freezing temperatures, the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) had an unprecedented demand for energy. Read on to learn about TVA’s new power demand records. What records did TVA set? This past weekend, we were bundled up in sweaters due to low temperatures in the single digits. Because of the cold weather, there was a high demand for power.
Many North Alabama roads impassable, authorities ask motorists to delay morning commute - Hville Blast
State and local North Alabama law enforcement, emergency management agencies and the National Weather Service Huntsville Office are asking motorists to stay off the roads this morning. According to Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) roadway conditions are extremely dangerous throughout Limestone, Morgan, Cullman, Madison, Marshall and Jackson counties. Limestone County, roadway conditions are extremely hazardous throughout the county but especially on Huntsville Browns Ferry Road.
NEW PET ALERT: Huntsville Animal Services reducing adoption fees
The Huntsville Animal Services is slashing adoption fees to just $35 for most adult dogs and cats and $50 for puppies and kittens in an effort to reduce the growing number of at-risk pets at the kennels. Each adoptable pet is vaccinated, spayed/neutered, microchipped and comes with a City license and free bag of pet food. Canât Adopt?
Huntsville and Madison Operation Christmas Cleanup set for Jan. 7
Wondering where you can recycle your real Christmas tree? How about all those used batteries your kids will go through after a week’s worth of playing with their new toys, or the boxes those toys came in? No worries—Operation Christmas Cleanup takes place Saturday, January 7, 8AM- 1PM at two locations: John Hunt Park, 2315 Airport Road Madison City Schools Stadium, 211 Celtic Drive What is Accepted?
You've got to take a look at these 8 Huntsville-area homes on the market now
Sponsored Now is as good a time as any to find your next home sweet home. If you’re looking for a great place in the Huntsville area, you’re in luck—we’ve got 8 listings you need to browse. Scroll on for the details. Hartselle,AL 35640 sq. ft. 4 bedrooms 3 full/0 half baths $400000 For more info, contact Hillary Borden at 256-274-1227 or email hmcknight@realtysouth.com Hanceville,AL 35057 sq. ft.
Ground broken for construction on the Arcadia mixed-use development
Monday marked a big day for development in Huntsville, as ground was broken for the Arcadia, a new mixed-use development coming to one of the city’s busiest areas. The new development is located on the corner of Bradford and Wynn Drive in the heart of Cummings Research Park. Here are more details: Details on the Arcadia The Arcadia will be located on one of the busiest corners in the city and will be right across the street from the new Alabama School of Cyber Technology.
$110M multifamily hospitality development coming to Huntsville’s MidCity District
Huntsville-based developer RCP Companies announced plans today to develop a $110 million urban mixed-use development in the city’s rapidly expanding MidCity District. Named Anthem House as a nod to MidCity’s music theme, the development addresses Rocket City’s need for tech and corporate workforce housing.
Domaine South, Butter & Egg Diner, Parm & Pepper earn health scores of 95+
In June, the Madison County Health Department conducted health inspections at more than 200 restaurants in the county, with many receiving a health score of 95 or above. As a public service, Hville Blast will report monthly Madison County Health Department restaurant scores, featuring those eateries that scored a 95 or better on their inspection.
7 exciting places for trivia in Huntsville
It’s time to test your smarts and have a great time with friends. We gathered some options for FREE weekly trivia in Huntsville. Keep reading to find out all you need to know. 1. The Boot—Tuesday Trivia In the mood for a slice of tasty pizza and a fun night of trivia in Huntsville? Head over to The Boot nested right off the Parkway in South Huntsville. Don’t forget to order the watermelon marg while you’re there.
Guntersville City Harbor to get new $15 million hotel
Some big news was announced Monday on the business front in Guntersville, with the word that Guntersville City Harbor will soon be the site of a $15 million hotel. The developer, Lawler Hotels, has not yet finalized a hotel partner. What they did say, however, is that the hotel will be upscale and is expected to bring in significant revenue for the city.
Job seekers: Check out more than 15,000 jobs open in the Huntsville area
Summer is in fill swing and so is the local job market in the Huntsville area. According to Indeed.com, more than 15,000 jobs are currently open in the area, ranging from the medical field to retail and hospitality. Check out the most recent job listings in the Rocket City and surrounding communties. Dollar General, Huntsville Hospital among companies with openings Huntsville Hospital leads the way again with the most job openings in the area, with more than 900 openings listed.
NEW: Back Forty Beer Co. Huntsville set to launch by Summer 2023
Facebook26LinkedInShares26 Back Forty, one of Alabama’s most popular breweries, has begun work in Huntsville on its latest micro-production brewery with a tap room, beer garden and restaurant. This week, site prep began for Back Forty Beer Co. Huntsville at the intersection of Leeman Ferry Rd SW and Airport Rd SW.
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