Good morning, Huntsville.

Madison first responders participated in a surprise active shooter drill on Friday at the Public Safety Training Center to test their teamwork and organization during a mass casualty event (role players and additional officers simulated the scenario).

Officials noted that responders not on duty were unaware of the drill beforehand.

Maki Fresh, a popular Asian eatery, closed its Huntsville location this week.

Open since 2016 at The Shops at Merchants Walk near Whole Foods, the restaurant—known for poke bowls and sushi—ended its service permanently without further comment.

Piper & Leaf, a Lacey’s Spring tea subscription service that supports local growers and foster care, has been nominated in the USA TODAY 10BEST Readers’ Choice Awards for Best Tea Subscription.

Community members can vote daily until Monday, Aug. 17 at 10:59 a.m. CT.

X-Bow Systems, founded in Huntsville, unveiled Buckler, a low cost interceptor for drones built in house at Farnborough International Airshow.

The system will be on display at the Space and Missile Defense Symposium (Aug. 11-13) in Huntsville.

Rock the Dock 2026 is set to deliver live music, food trucks and family activities at Goose Pond Colony—offering a scenic waterfront experience.

The event will provide one of its largest music celebrations yet for local residents.

Madison Mayor Renae Bartlett is at the Farnborough International Airshow (meeting with business representatives) to promote North Alabama's aerospace industry, while Redwire Corp announced an expansion of its Huntsville facility that will add about 150 high-skilled jobs.

Data from the Alabama Department of Workforce shows online job postings rose more than 3% from May and 26% compared to last year, with top roles in nursing, customer service and retail sales (9,990 ads for these roles).

The median wage is $55,168 and there is about one candidate for every two openings.

Madison school leaders met with local officials and first responders last week to review the Handle With Care initiative for trauma-sensitive support for kids after family emergencies — a program launched in 2023 by Madison City Schools that now guides other districts.

June’s data shows significant momentum in Huntsville’s housing market with pending sales up 21.8% and closed sales rising 19.9% year over year; inventory is balanced (4.3 months supply from about 4,880 single-family homes) and median price is $324,000.

Buyers continue adjusting to current rates amid strong job growth.

Bob Jones rising senior pitcher Graham Segraves credits Milo’s sweet tea for his game-day success.

The 17-year-old, who will pitch at this week’s AHSAA All-Star Week baseball game in Montgomery, keeps his ritual as he aims for a college scholarship.

Samuel Bailey, the Mae Jemison offensive lineman and four star prospect in the 2028 class, has received 30 scholarship offers from schools including LSU, Texas A&M and Tennessee.

He will visit multiple gameday events this season to sharpen his technique while building strong bonds with his coaches.

Justin Silva Live Comedy Show

5:30 PM — Huntsville Levity Live — Tickets starting at $27.02 — Enjoy an evening of laughter with comedian Justin Silva as he shares his unique journey and humor.

Hot Fudge Comedy Show

8:30 p.m. — Huntsville Levity Live — Tickets starting at $27.02 — Enjoy a night of laughter with the Hot Fudge Comedy troupe.

That One Mailman

6-9 p.m. — Huntsville Levity Live — Tickets starting at $33.39 — Enjoy a night of comedy with social media sensation Sean as he shares his journey from mailman to stand-up comic.

Back to School Basketball Camp

8 a.m. - 12 p.m. — Shoot 360 Huntsville — Members receive 20% off — Final chance for summer basketball fun with skill-building activities and competitions.

The Wallflowers Concert

7-9:30 p.m. — Mars Music Hall — Ticket prices vary — Experience the iconic sounds of The Wallflowers live in Huntsville.

T. Murph Stand-Up Comedy Show

6-9 p.m. — Huntsville Levity Live — Tickets from $27.02 — Experience the high-energy storytelling of Chicago's own T. Murph in an unforgettable comedic performance.

Zach Rushing: The Redneck Logic Tour

7-10 p.m. — Huntsville Levity Live — Special Event — Experience the humor and heart of Zach Rushing, a Mississippi comic bringing his unapologetic style to the stage.

First Fridays Summer Edition | August

6-9 p.m. — AC Hotel Huntsville Downtown — Happy Hour Cocktails and Appetizers — Enjoy great music and good vibes while connecting with cool people in a lively atmosphere.