Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 21st of March.
Good morning, Huntsville.
A moon tree grown from seed flown around the moon on the Artemis I mission was planted near the John Scoble Memorial Pavilion at Monte Sano State Park on March 20th—city leaders, NASA representatives and the Von Braun Astronomical Society joined Alabama State Parks officials at the ceremony.
Organizers of the Panoply Arts Festival unveiled poster art at a press conference where they shared details on regional bands, featured performers, hands-on STEAM art activities — and an Art Marketplace showcasing work from over 100 artists.
The 43rd festival will be held April 25—27 in Downtown Huntsville’s Big Spring Park.
Since March 6, 199 building permits were approved for local projects worth over $92 million across Madison, Limestone and Morgan counties — including 56 Huntsville permits totaling $52 million — with the top project being a $25 million office building at 8500 Redstone Gateway and a permit for alterations to a Decatur steel plant.
State leaders and local community groups support Huntsville as the clear choice for Space Command as Turning Point USA held a discussion at UAH that highlighted the city’s strategic advantages—showing that local backing goes beyond politics.
On Wednesday, the Alabama House Public Safety and Homeland Security Committee held a hearing on House Bill 224, which would criminalize approaching a first responder within 25 feet and using obscene gestures—one speaker argued it could hinder protest while another stressed responder safety; lawmakers will vote on the bill after Spring Break.
Phuket on Providence Main Street and Logan's on University Drive in Huntsville tied for Madison County's lowest food safety score of 81 this week—both had issues with damaged pans and improper food storage.
New China Restaurant on Highway 53 and Research Park Boulevard received an 84 after inspectors found raw chicken thawing with gnats in a bowl—resulting in the disposal of the affected items.
Realtor Lauren Holliday said the planned move of 500 FBI employees to Huntsville is expected to drive home prices higher—she noted that inventory is already 26% up compared to last year—and Senator Tommy Tuberville warned that more new arrivals may soon lead to a housing shortage.
Top Para-cyclists will return to Huntsville on March 29 to race in a time trial at Cummings Research Park that will choose Team USA’s riders for upcoming World Cup events—many Paris medalists are expected to compete—and mark the start of a new Paralympic cycle.
Spring Organ Festival
From March 9 through April 10, the Greater Huntsville, AL Chapter of the American Guild of Organists hosts its Spring Organ Festival at various local churches on alternating Thursday evenings (7:00pm) and Sunday afternoons (3:30pm). The events are free and open to the public.
Otis Walker Band Live at Tangled String Studios
The Otis Walker Band will perform live at Tangled String Studios in Huntsville, showcasing their music talent in an intimate setting.
Sean Dietrich: Where's Home Tour
7-11 p.m. — Thurber Arts Center, Huntsville, AL — Ticket prices vary — Experience the charming storytelling of Sean Dietrich, a unique voice from the American South.
DEKA STRONG Roadshow at Fitness 300 in Huntsville, AL
The DEKA STRONG Roadshow offers a fitness challenge featuring ten functional training zones, emphasizing competition and preparation for the upcoming DEKA FIT 2025 event.
ChargerCon 2025: Annual Gaming and Technology Expo
ChargerCon is a free annual gaming and technology expo held at the University of Alabama in Huntsville, offering a space for enthusiasts to engage with video gaming and tech innovations.
On-Site Tour at Preferred Care
This event offers an informative on-site tour of the Preferred Care at Home of Greater Huntsville, focusing on the quality of senior living and care.
National Lifespan Respite Conference
5 PM – 2 PM — The Westin Huntsville — Registration coming soon — Attend to explore important themes in respite care for families and caregivers.
Henry Cho Live Comedy Show
7-10 p.m. — Huntsville Levity Live — 21+ event with a two-item minimum — Enjoy an evening of laughter with comic Henry Cho on The Empty Nest Tour.
Henry Cho: The Empty Nest Tour
7-10 p.m. — Huntsville Levity Live — Tickets required — Enjoy a night of laughter with comedian Henry Cho for ages 21 and up.
Hike at Bethel Spring Nature Preserve
2-4 p.m. — Bethel Spring Nature Preserve — Free entry — Explore scenic trails and a stunning waterfall during this moderately challenging hike.
Bridge Street Town Centre Half Marathon
7 AM – 6 PM — Bridge Street Town Centre — Registration required — Experience a scenic 13.1-mile race in Huntsville with chip timing and a festive post-race celebration.
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