Here's your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 17th of May.
Good morning, Huntsville.
David Barnes, a Huntsville native held captive in Russia, remains in custody while his family hopes that ballerina Ksenia Karelina—who recently returned to the U.S.—will help bring him home.
His family says her influence could prompt Russian authorities to release him soon.
Population estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau show that two metro areas drove growth in Alabama last year—Foley grew 12% while Huntsville added more residents than any other city in the state.
On May 15, Huntsville's Green Ambassador awards ceremony honored students & teachers from more than 30 schools for eco-friendly projects in recycling, community gardens, & nature care at the Jaycee Community Building in John Hunt Park.
The event marked the program’s second year as part of the City’s Green Team initiative.
During the spring session that ended May 14, lawmakers approved a police immunity law while HB188—the scholarship bill for law enforcement families—failed due to lengthy Senate filibusters.
Rep. Allen Treadaway said he is disappointed and will refile the measure next session.
Governor Kay Ivey signed the 'Back the Blue' police immunity bill on Thursday—HB202—granting enhanced legal protections for law enforcement in Alabama, with the bill sponsored by former officers State Sen. Lance Bell and State Rep. Rex Reynolds.
Ivey said the move shows the state has officers' backs while protecting communities.
Quinton Young at the Huntsville Housing Authority works to increase homeownership by creating programs with community partners—he helped launch an affordable auto loan program with RDFCU and an award-winning childcare initiative while drawing on his own experiences from Oakland, California. Young, a dedicated single parent, continues to build opportunities for low- to moderate-income residents.
Huntsville Police Captain Tim Clardy recalled how his uncle Billy Clardy Jr. and his cousin Billy Clardy III lost their lives in the line of duty.
He carries their legacy forward every day by serving with honor—an enduring reminder of the risks his work brings.
Kids to Love partnered with iXpressGenes to start a clinical trial in Huntsville that uses blood tests and therapy to treat PTSD in adults 18 and older.
The trial will begin in June and will use a new blood test to track inflammation markers during therapy—helping doctors create custom treatment plans.
Chattanooga FC will visit Huntsville City FC at Wicks Family Field today — the match kicks off at 7 p.m. CT as both teams aim to improve their positions in the Eastern Conference.
Chattanooga FC comes off a 2 to 1 win against Toronto FC II while Huntsville City FC recovered from a scoreless draw at Carolina Core FC.
Step Into the Wild: A Hike Series
8-10 a.m. — Monte Sano Mountain Bike Trail Parking — Free entry — Explore Madison County's natural beauty with a guided hike on the Stone Cut Trail.
Haywire Returns to Mad Malts
7-11:30 p.m. — Mad Malts Brewing — No Refunds — Enjoy a night of local music featuring Haywire and supporting acts Writhing Shadows, Bareknuckle, and Bootprint.
The R&B Experience with Darien Omar
7-11 p.m. — The Note Jazz Lounge — Tickets available — Enjoy an unforgettable night filled with smooth R&B vibes and soulful melodies.
RunningLane Track Championships
May 23-24 — Milton Frank Stadium — Free entry — Witness top athletes vie for victory in this exciting track championship event.
The Matt Long Band Live
5-8 p.m. — Yellowhammer Brewing — Ticket entry required — Experience a night of live music with The Matt Long Band.
Brooks Wheelan Stand-Up Show
6-7:30 p.m. — Huntsville Levity Live — Buy Tickets — Enjoy an evening of laughter with comedian Brooks Wheelan.
Cotton Row Run
7:00 – 10:30 AM — Big Spring International Park — Entry fee applies — Experience the premier Memorial Day running event with options for all levels: 10K, 5K, and 1 Mile.
Rocket City Trash Pandas vs. Biloxi Shuckers
6:35-10:35 PM — Toyota Field — Admission Charged — Don't miss an exciting baseball matchup between the Trash Pandas and the Shuckers.
Biloxi Shuckers at Rocket City Trash Pandas
1-4 p.m. — Toyota Field — Ticket prices vary — Catch the thrilling minor league baseball action as the Shuckers take on the Trash Pandas.
Interviewing Skills Workshop
6-7 p.m. — Alabama Goodwill Career Centers — Free entry — Boost your interview skills with tips and strategies for success.
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