visithuntsvilleal

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We've moved our blog to iHeartHsv.com. Keep up with the Rocket City, things to do, dishes to try and more. New posts every Wednesday. #iHeartHsv

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5,4,3,2,1: A countdown (because, of course) to 5 of the Rocket City's most historic meeting sites

Your guests will be awed as they dine beneath an authentic Saturn V moon rocket at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, Ala

Throughout my years of planning events and conferences, from both sides of the equation, first as a facility sales representative, later as a corporate meeting planner and now at the Huntsville/Madison County Convention & Visitors Bureau, I have often heard that more business deals are done at the dining table than at the boardroom table.

When planning any event there can seem to be an overwhelming number of details to consider: Who are we looking to attract? Who will our presenters be? All the way down to “Who is in control of the thermostat in my meeting room?” Inevitably those with “the vision” of what your event will look like decide that what you need is a really fun, interesting and (let’s not forget) reasonably-priced place to host an off-site meal or reception. A place where your attendees can feel relaxed and maybe do a little of that “dining table” business.

In order to assist those planning meetings in Huntsville and narrow the search a bit, I have compiled the following list which highlights just a few of the truly one-of-a-kind dining experiences in Huntsville / Madison County. Whether you’re looking to accommodate 5 or 500, these locations are out of this world. (Wink, Wink)

  5. Main Street Café: Located in Madison, Alabama (just 20 minutes from downtown Huntsville), Main Street Café occupies a quaint, white brick building constructed in 1955, which once housed the Madison City Jail.  They serve up Southern fare like Coca Cola Cake and Fried Green Tomatoes, so dangerously-delicious it should be a crime. Conveniently, they have two jail cells in which to dine for you and your partners in crime. With seating up to 8 guests, it is definitely an experience to remember. They are open Monday – Saturday, 11:00a.m. until 2:00p.m. For more information: www.mainstreetcafemadison.com or (256) 461-8096.

4. North Alabama Railroad Museum: Providing the perfect way to keep your event on track (I know, I know), the North Alabama Railroad Museum offers excursion train rides where you and your group can enjoy your catered lunch in an honest-to-goodness dining car. Available 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Saturdays and between 1:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m. on Sundays when they are not operating an open-to-the-public event, the experience is sure to take you back to a different time and place. The Dining Car seats up to 40 people and if you’re worried about the jostling of your sweet tea, the car can be reserved to remain stationary. For more information: events@northalabamarailroadmuseum.com.

3. Alabama Constitution Village: Travel back in time and just off the courthouse square to a replica of the workshop where Alabama’s Constitution was signed in 1819. Constitution Hall provides a rich historic backdrop for your event. What better location for inspiring clients to “sign on the dotted line?” Lantern tours of the other museum buildings and grounds can be arranged for an additional fee. Constitution Hall can accommodate 125 for a standing reception or 60 for a seated meal. For more information: www.earlyworks.com or (256)564-8111.

 2. A.M. Booth’s Lumberyard: A.M. Booth's Lumberyard began in 1895, and it remained in operation until the 1950's when it became an auto parts store, until it closed its doors in 2005. In 2007, The Smith Family acquired the property and set to gathering the beautiful pieces and parts of Huntsville history which today make up one of the most eclectic and unique event venues anywhere. This place is the definition of modern cool! You will find something new and unimagined around every corner. With the expansion of the bar area, the Lumberyard will bring their event capacities up to 250 for indoor seating or 700 when utilizing their indoor and outdoor spaces. For more information: www.thelumberyard.info or (256) 651-3417.

1. U.S. Space & Rocket Center (USSRC) Saturn V Hall: In the USSRC Saturn V Hall of the Davidson Center for Space Exploration, experience the mesmerizing opportunity to dine under an authentic Saturn V moon rocket – a National Historic Landmark! Surrounded by historic artifacts and interactive exhibits from space exploration, your guests enjoy the breathtaking ambiance as they dine beneath one of mankind’s greatest scientific achievements. The only place to have a galactically good time, an out of this world event AND launch your universally great meeting (I could do this all day)! This stellar space can accommodate up to 800 for a seated meal and 1000 for a standing reception. For more information: www.rocketcenter.com or (256) 721-7183.

These dramatic and engaging facilities are really only the “nose cone of the rocket” in Huntsville, Alabama. The variety of stunning meeting venues in Huntsville / Madison County could potentially be a bit overwhelming but the good news is, we are here to help! If you need assistance navigating the vastness of Space spaces or strolling through the monumental rooms of historic halls please contact me or another of our Convention Sales professionals at the Huntsville/Madison County Convention & Visitors Bureau. huntsville.org (256)551-2230 or (800) SPACE-4-U.

Leslie Walker, Certified Hospitality Specialist or CHSP, attended the University of Alabama-Huntsville as an electrical engineering major before beginning her career as a hotelier and has stayed in the hospitality industry ever since. She is a wife to her husband Steve and mother to two girls, Avery and Bailey. Keeping with family tradition, she currently resides in Huntsville. You can reach Leslie by phone at (256) 551-2380, or by e-mail at lwalker@huntsville.org. 

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Q&A with CVB Convention Sales Manager Leslie Walker

As a self-identified space and rocket geek, as well as social media enthusiast (tweet her at @LeslieTWalker!), Leslie Walker is not your average hospitality veteran. A veteran she certainly is however, beginning her career in the industry at the ripe age of nineteen.

Coming to the CVB in December 2012, Leslie covers fraternal, multi-cultural, biotechnology, social media, and family reunion events and meetings. She loves to spearhead new projects for the Bureau, such as the Wing Ding motorcycle convention coming to the Rocket City in September 2015, and enjoys helping others learn about the endless value Huntsville offers as a capital for innovation and progress.

We had the opportunity to catch up with Leslie to talk to her about some of her favorite aspects of Huntsville, the hospitality industry itself, and that one thing she really wishes she could cross off her bucket list.

  (Q) What did you do before coming to the CVB, and how do you think it prepared you for the job you have now?

(A) My career path has been very straightforward. At the age of nineteen I started as a front desk clerk at the Radisson Suites South Parkway (now the DoubleTree) and moved upward into Corporate Sales Manager and Director of Sales roles. I’ve also been an Event Manager for a software company. All of these positions have helped prepare me for the job I have now as a Convention Sales Manager, because I understand the crucial role our hotel partners play in making meetings and events successful.

(Q) What has been your biggest accomplishment while at the CVB?

(A) Wing Ding 37 is a huge accomplishment because of the amazing impact it will have on the city economically. Winning the Social Media Tourism Symposium in 2013 was also one of my best accomplishments because of the way our CVB team, hospitality industry partners and community came together. The group effort was incredible, and I felt like we were really breaking new ground.

 (Q)  What would you do if you were not in the hospitality industry?

(A)  I think it would be fascinating to do music marketing. I love music of all kinds. I think selling music actually has several parallels to the hospitality industry in that you’re promoting not just a product, but a feeling and an experience.

(Q) What is your favorite/least favorite part of the hospitality industry?

(A) My favorite is giving people - whether it’s one person or an entire convention - a positive experience and making their event or meeting better than anything they could have imagined. My least favorite part is that sometimes the things you work the hardest on, whether it be scheduling or other intricate details, may be the things that go unnoticed. But in the end that’s the goal— to do the hard work behind the scenes in order to provide a seamless, exceptional experience for the meeting planner, and ultimately and honestly convince them that Huntsville is the best location for their event.

(Q) Name something from your “bucket list.”

(A) I want to see Depeche Mode in concert before I die.

      (Did we mention how cool Leslie is?! She is the master of cool.)

(Q) What do you consider to be the most interesting aspect of Huntsville?

(A) I find it interesting that Huntsville constantly surprises people. It is often the complete opposite of what people expect to find here. We are a very intellectual, inventive, and scientific city, and I love seeing people discover that for the first time.

(Q) What books are on your reading list?

(A) I wouldn’t consider myself a voracious reader… I do enjoy it but I’m not reading anything   currently. You could say that the entire internet is my go-to read for now!

(Q) What is one piece of general advice you want to give?

(A) Always – and I can’t emphasize this enough – always be genuine with people. People can almost always sense when you’re being disingenuous----always be honest and straightforward with everyone.

(Q) Finally, the most important question of all: Roll Tide or War Eagle?

(A) Roll Tide all the way! That’s a multi-generational Roll Tide, by the way. I am a sixth-generation native Huntsvillian. We’re a very rare breed.

    Leslie Walker, Certified Hospitality Specialist or CHSP, attended the University of Alabama-Huntsville as an electrical engineering major before beginning her career as a hotelier and has stayed in the hospitality industry ever since. She is a wife to her husband Steve and mother to two girls, Avery and Bailey. Keeping with family tradition, she currently resides in Huntsville. You can reach Leslie by phone at (256) 551-2380, or by e-mail at lwalker@huntsville.org. 

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CVB welcomes new Administrative Assistant, Lori Dendy

The CVB is excited to introduce our (semi) new staff member, Mrs. Lori Dendy! Although she has been with us as a Visitor Information Assistant (VIA) for three years, she recently began her new position as Administrative Assistant.

A Huntsville native herself, she looks forward to continuing her role in promoting Huntsville and Madison County. We took a moment to learn more about the latest addition to the CVB team and came away with some very interesting information: places she wants to visit, what she believes people need to know about Huntsville, and the one thing she does for her birthday every year (it’s pretty impressive!)

  (Q) What are you most excited about working in this position?

(A) Well, being a VIA for three years has really made me excited about the CVB’s mission to promote Huntsville/Madison County. Also, being from Huntsville myself, I really love our city and I’m happy to be able to play a large part in making others aware of all the great things Huntsville has to offer.

  (Q) What do you feel your biggest challenge will be as Administrative Assistant?

(A) For me, I feel like the biggest challenge will be mastering all the technology quickly. There are many different programs and so much to learn.

  (Q) Tell us a joke!

(A) You want to know why one side is longer when geese fly in a “V” formation?

       Because there’s more geese on that side. (We love her already!)

  (Q) In your opinion, what is something about Huntsville that people should know but might not?

(A) This might sound trivial, but there’s actually plenty of parking available in the downtown area. I often hear people worry about the difficulty of parking downtown, but there’s lots of space. I park downtown all the time and have always been able to find a spot quickly, even outside of the garage.

  (Q) What is something you’ve always wanted to do, or somewhere you want to go?

(A) My husband and I went to Scotland for our honeymoon, and I’d love to go back soon.

  (Q) Do you have any hidden talents?

(A) I don’t believe I have any “talents” per se… but I do turn a cartwheel every year on my birthday.

  (Q) What is your favorite part of the holidays?

(A) My favorite part is definitely the lights. They’re always so beautiful, and I just can’t get enough of them.

    Mrs. Lori Dendy graduated from Auburn University with her Bachelor’s in marketing. As well as serving as a Visitor Information Assistant, she also taught preschool at First Presbyterian Church and has volunteered with multiple non-profit organizations. She currently resides in Huntsville with her husband and two children, Aryn Michael and Andrew, and in her spare time loves reading southern literature and listening to all kinds of music. You can reach Lori by e-mail at ldendy@huntsville.org or by phone at (256) 551-2263.

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What's up with the brand new Huntsville Food Tour? Co-Founder Heather Waye dishes the details

Do you have a hunger for adventure? Do you have a love for all things historical, cultural or just plain tasty? If so, then the Downtown Dish Huntsville food tour is for you. 

This week we got one of the tour’s founders, Heather Waye, to dish about what makes this food tour so special.

  (Q)Tell us about Downtown Dish. What can folks expect?

(A) The Downtown Dish Huntsville Food Tour is a three-hour cultural experience. We explore, teach a little history, and most importantly, taste the highlights of downtown. We hope this experience will encourage people to return and feel confident to continue their own discovery of the downtown area.  It is a great way to get an intimate look at the “mom and pop” shops, get familiar with the neighborhood, and try out a few restaurants all in a single afternoon.

(Q) Where did the idea come from? How did you get started?

(A) My husband Chris and I visited Knoxville last year and found a food tour through Trip Advisor. We had never heard of anything like that, but a walking tour, filled with culture, stories, and food tastings sounded like fun to us - and it was. During the tour, we knew it was something we wanted to bring to Huntsville. We attended classes in Chicago, (a food tour paradise), and got started developing the Huntsville tour this summer.

(Q) Food and Huntsville history in one tour. What could be better! What will a visitor to the Rocket City get out of the Downtown Dish?

 (A)  Our visitors will get to experience the area on foot, which is the best way to explore. Our guide will deliver interesting facts about the history of Huntsville along with the stories behind the foods they will enjoy. Huntsville has always been a remarkable place, and is home to some remarkable people. Hopefully, a native or visitor will finish the tour feeling a greater connection to the city because they have discovered things they might not have known before.

  (Q) Give us some professional tips for making the most out of the Downtown Dish Tour.

(A) #1: Be adventurous, and try all of the foods! Much has gone into choosing the tastings at each of our stops. We tried many dishes, took a lot of notes, and made some tough decisions. One goal of a food tour is to expand your culinary horizon.

 #2: Get to know the other participants and have fun with them.  Our group is made up of experience-minded people. They like to try new things and love to meet others who have the same approach to life.

  (Q) What else should folks know that we’ve missed?

 (A) Some might feel intimidated by a 3 hour walking tour, but we have lots of stops along the way and the total route is only 1.1 miles.

          When she’s not showcasing downtown Huntsville’s dining scene, Heather Waye is a mother and homeschool teacher to her two youngest children. A Madison County native, she received her Bachelor’s in Spanish and Foreign Relations from the University of Alabama-Huntsville. You can contact Heather or receive more information about the Downtown Dish food tour by e-mail at info@huntsvillefoodtours.com, or by phone at 800-656-0713.

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Huntsville, AL Halloween Guide#3: Wonderfully Wacky Halloween

Guide #3 Wonderfully Wacky Halloween

Get away from the ordinary with these very “boo-nique” festivities!

Don't forget to check out Halloween Guides 1 and 2.

For the SuperNATURAL Huntsville Guide, click here.

For the Family Frights Huntsville Halloween Guide, click here.

*For a full listing of October Huntsville events, click here.

Spooktacular Puppet Show

On October 31st from 10:30-11:30 a.m., you’re invited to the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library to hear readings from favorite children’s books and enjoy a puppet show! No admission charged. Learn more here.

Dia de Los Muertos Exhibit

On October 29 through November 1, come view both traditional and non-traditional Day of the Dead altars created by Lowe Mill artists. Honor those who have passed and celebrate the art of this beautiful tradition. Admission is free. Learn more here.

Dr. Osborn’s Magical Laboratory

Comedy, juggling, and a mind-reading orange come together to make this a wonderfully whimsical event at Huntsville’s Fantasy Playhouse. Showings run October 24-26, at 7 p.m. on Friday, 2 & 7 p.m. on Saturday, and 2 p.m. on Sunday. Admission is charged. Click here for more information.

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Huntsville, AL Halloween Guide 2: Family Frights

Guide #2: Family Frights

Here it is! Guide #2 to Huntsville Halloween events---this time we're focusing on the family-friendly fun to be had in the Rocket City this Halloween!

Miss our two other guides to Huntsville Halloween Fun? No worries.

Click here for the SuperNATURAL Huntsville Guide.

Click here for the Wonderfully Wacky Guide.

*For a full listing of events happening in Huntsville this October, click here.

Family Frights

These events are perfect for ghouls and goblins of all ages!

Sci Quest Spooktacular Science Family Halloween Party

Let out your inner mad scientist at the Sci Quest Hands-on Science Center October 24th from 6-9 p.m. and 25th from 2-7 p.m. Carnival games, a mummy makeover, and “Hauntcert” performed by the Huntsville Concert Band will provide hours of fun for the whole family. Tickets may be purchased online at sci-quest.org or at the door. 

Bootanica

October 25 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m., head to the Huntsville Botanical Garden for an afternoon of fun fall festivities. Featuring hay rides, pumpkin painting, and even a costume parade, this event covers all of the bases for the perfect autumn day. All events included in price of admission.

More info here.

Spooky Space Spectacular

What goes better together than spooks and space? Join the U.S. Space and Rocket Center for an evening of out of this world excitement October 31 from 4-8 p.m. that includes a showing of "Hocus Pocus" at 6:00, with a costume contest following at 7:45. Moon bounce, arts and crafts, and more! Tickets are $20 per family/$5 per person. 

More info can be found by clicking here.

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Huntsville, AL Halloween Guide #1: SuperNATURAL Huntsville

Autumn has officially arrived in Huntsville, and we couldn’t be more excited! In fact, you could say we might be falling in love with the new season… and you can too, with all of the wonderful events happening around the Rocket City! From spooky historical tours to a whimsical puppet show, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

We have three Huntsville Halloween Guides just for you. We've split them into three parts, but we've also included the links to all below.

*For a full listing of events happening in Huntsville this October, click here

Enjoy our SuperNATURAL Guide below!

Guide #1

SuperNATURAL Huntsville

Huntsville is known for its fantastic history and beautiful natural surroundings, so it only makes sense to enjoy the best of both worlds this Halloween season! 

Nights of the Living Dead Re-Enactment at Historic Lowry House

Live through your own zombie apocalypse at the Lowry House on October 17 & 18, and again October 24 & 25. The fight for survival begins at 7:30 p.m. Tickets available at historiclowryhouse.com or by calling 256-489-9200. Don’t wait to reserve your spot, they’re going fast! 

Huntsville Ghost Walk

It seems as though some past Huntsville residents never left! Learn about the ghostly personalities that haunt historic Huntsville, with three separate tours (Twickenham, Old Town, and Downtown) beginning at 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday nights in October, with additional tours Saturday nights at 8:30. Tickets are $10 for adults/$5 for children under 12 and may be purchased at Harrison Brothers Hardware Store on the square in downtown Huntsville. Learn more here.

Click here to see a video sneak peek of the Huntsville Ghost Walks!

The Haunt at Three Caves

Get your Halloween groove on October 24 from 7-11 p.m. Attendees will be dancing the night away to live music surrounded by the natural beauty of the historic limestone mine. Food trucks and a cash bar will be available. Purchase tickets here. 21 and up! Reminder: there is no parking at Three Caves. Buses will run to and from the Clinton Street parking garage (garage admission included in ticket price).

Click here to read the Family Frights Guide.

Click here to read the Wonderfully Wacky Halloween Guide.

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Taking a Moment with CVB Senior Convention Sales Manager Sharon Snell

Sharon Snell (center) pictured with the CVB Convention Department

As a mother, industry veteran, and one of the CVB’s longest-serving staff members, Sharon Snell knows the importance of multitasking. Especially since she covers such a wide variety of markets for the Convention & Visitors Bureau’s Convention Sales Department – including Religious, Corporate, Military, and Multi-Cultural events and meetings. Part of her success as Senior Convention Sales Manager comes not only from being flexible and detail-oriented, but also utilizing the wisdom that comes only with experience.

Speaking of experience, Sharon has plenty. Coming to the CVB in 1999, the month of September marks her 15th year here. Serving as a liaison for meeting planners and groups spanning a variety of markets, as well as managing the CVB website huntsville.org, she works to provide the very best experience for those looking to hold their events, meetings, reunions, etc. in Huntsville and Madison County. We sat down with her to find out her tips for success, her thoughts on the Rocket City… and even her favorite football team.

  (Q) What did you do before coming to the CVB, and how do you think it prepared you for the position you have now?

(A) I worked at Intergraph, first doing technical support and then later on database administration. I think with the technical support position - the customer service aspect of it - helped me learn how to deliver results to a wide variety of clients.

(Q) What was one of your most extensive/largest events and how did you make it a success?

 (A) One of our largest was the Delta Sigma Theta sorority that came to Huntsville in 2009, and then in 2012 we had the Leadership Team Development event, which was an Amway (a global health and beauty retailer) conference. As far as planning, we assisted with the securing of hotels in the city as well as the group rebates, planning for welcome banners, and keeping the community informed about the group’s presence. One of our most important roles in the Convention Sales Department is serving as liaisons between the hotels and the meeting planners to ensure they are happy with their experience in our community, because then their chances of coming back, or bringing business back to Huntsville/Madison County, increases greatly.

(Q) What are some trends you see in your events today? What do people like, dislike, etc.?

 (A) Local attractions are very important, but convenience is a big consideration. That is why it’s critical that we work with residents in Huntsville/Madison County to identify what groups and associations they are involved with in order to bring that business home and strengthen our local economy.

(Q) What are some things you think are essential for a successful meeting, i.e. what are some do's/don’ts?

(A) Plan well ahead. You definitely need good time management. The most important thing is keeping your team informed – communication, especially between us and the meeting planners – is key. One “don’t” is to not wait and try to plan something last-minute. A great meeting requires advanced planning and attention to every last detail that will be important to attendees.

(Q) What is some advice or tips you have for others who want to succeed in the hospitality industry?

(A) One thing I’d like to see is more young people in the hospitality industry. It is not only a fun industry to be involved in, but it is very, very important for local economies. Last year, the travel industry generated close to a billion dollars in economic impact returned to Huntsville and Madison County. Overall, it’s an exciting field to be in. You get to travel and meet a variety of people. I would especially encourage more young men to get into the industry, since it is rather female-dominated.

(Q) What is something not well known about yourself that you think others would be surprised to know?

(A) There’s probably not a lot people don’t know about me. I’m a very direct and open person. (On a side note, one thing we did find out during our talk with Sharon is that she’s a twin- and an Auburn fan! Something that’s not so easy in an office that tends to bleed crimson and white.)

(Q) What makes Huntsville great as a meeting destination?

(A) Huntsville is a very “green” city. It has a very picturesque backdrop, with all the trees and mountains. I think sometimes people have the perception that Alabama’s not like that, but it is very beautiful. We’re a very open, diverse and inclusive city. We have a lot of unique opportunities, and a very high quality of life here. Huntsville is kind of a best-kept secret – and we want to change that to let more people know about what a great place Huntsville is for both their meetings and to visit on their own.

(Q) What is one place in the world you want to go, or a place you haven’t seen but hope to some day?

(A) Paris, or Italy. My main issue is the long flight time. I don’t really like long flights… probably a three hour flight time would be my limit.

Sharon Snell is a current Madison County resident. She’s the mother of one son, Tyler, and a Michigan native - coming to us all the way from Kalamazoo, MI. She graduated from Tennessee State University, where she received her Bachelor’s in Management Information Systems. You can reach Sharon by phone, at (256) 551-2233, or by e-mail at ssnell@huntsville.org. 

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Huntsville's Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment is nation's largest private arts facility

Arts and the sciences collide in a beautiful way in Huntsville, Alabama. There are two iconic structures that will greet you when you arrive. The first, a 36 story replica of the Saturn V moon rocket that first took humans into space, and the second, a water tower that lights at night and marks the spot of the nation's largest private arts facility---Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment.

We had the opportunity to chat with Dustin Timbrook, Lowe Mill's Artist and Media Director, about why visitors should  make time for Lowe Mill during their trip to the Rocket City.

Check out what he has to say and why the future is incredibly bright for this former textile mill turned artist colony.

(Q) If you had to pick one thing happening in the near future at Lowe Mill that you are most excited about, what is it and why?

(A) I'm always excited about what's happening at Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment, but in the upcoming year I have more to be excited about than ever. As many have recently learned, our already massive arts facility is in the process of growing by thirty percent due to our expansion into the north wing of the building. During the past years my professional goal has simply been to make Lowe Mill popular in Huntsville, but with this new growth we believe it's finally time to market our facility as a national destination.

(Q) What’s one fact you don’t think many people realize about Lowe Mill?

(A) The one fact about Lowe Mill that I want people to know is that we are literally the biggest private arts facility in America. I think that Huntsville locals often don't realize how unique, rare, and impressive this place is simply because it is part of their day-to-day life. Often when something is in our own back yard we naturally assume that everyone else's yard has the same thing. Let's be clear though that this is not the case with Lowe Mill. No other American city has a private arts facility with as much working studio space, as many galleries, or as many professional artists as Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment. Huntsville is incredibly special in this regard. 

(Q) Talk to us a little about Lowe Mill’s history. How did it become what it is today?

(A) Lowe Mill was originally a textile mill around the turn of the century and was re-purposed as a shoe factory by General Shoe Company starting at the end of World War II. The mill eventually became a major supplier of combat boots during the Vietnam War. The 'ARTS & Entertainment' business of Lowe Mill came into being when Jim Hudson, founder of Research Genetics, decided to convert the building into visitor-friendly private studio spaces based on the popular Torpedo Factory Art Center in Alexandria, Virginia. Growth of our arts facility was slow-going at first, but with the vision and investment of the Hudson's and a lot of hard work from our artistic community, Lowe Mill has blossomed into something I think outsiders could have never predicted. We are a community-focused for-profit business with incredibly affordable rent for artists, a creative culture that encourages and thrives on local and handmade work, and cultural and educational events designed to appeal to people from every walk of life. 

(Q) Give us a pro-tip. What’s the biggest thing that visitors should know about visiting Lowe Mill?

(A) My one pro tip for visitors to Lowe Mill is simple; Engage with our artists! The purpose of this place is for you, the public, to learn about art, media, and craft directly from the professionals who have dedicated their lives to it. We have huge windows in every studio for you to view what our artists are making, but if a studio door is open I promise that artist would rather have you come in and see his or her work up close. You just might discover your next art purchase still sitting on the paint easel. Talk to us! 

  About Dustin

Dustin Timbrook is a local artist and the Media Director for Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment. Originally from Montgomery and having received his Bachelors in Fine Art from University of Montevallo, Dustin soon discovered his creative home in Huntsville after moving to the city to teach high school art in 2008. Unsatisfied with teaching, the artist took up studio space during the critical opening of Lowe Mill's redeveloped 3rd floor. Since that time Dustin's professional and creative relationship with Lowe Mill has grown in parallel to the evolution of the arts facility. 

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Big Spring Crush, Huntsville's first wine festival, to take place September 27

If you've been in Huntsville recently, you know that Huntsville Restaurant Week offered great deals on local food at 39 Huntsville/Madison County eateries. Now, the focus is shifting from great food to something some might prefer even more---great wine.

But before we get much further into the nitty gritty, we have to emphasize that ticket sales end on September 1. That means if you want to attend, you're going to want to purchase tickets as soon as possible. Here's the ticket link.

Now, let's get back to it.

Big Spring Crush is Huntsville's first ever wine festival and it is happening this fall---September 27 to be exact. It's being organized by the events group HomeGrown Huntsville, which promotes, organizes and creates events unique to the Rocket City.

We spoke with HomeGrown founder Ashley Ryals about the first-time wine festival that is bringing over 200 wines to downtown Huntsville, food trucks, entertainment and more. She gave us the inside scoop so that you have all the information you need to make plans to attend.

Here's what she told us.

(Q) Tell us what Big Spring Crush is and what attendees can expect.

(A) Huntsville’s first wine festival will take place in Big Spring Park east and will feature over 200 wines, live music, local restaurants, food trucks, a grape stomping area and more!  Your ticket gets you access to the festival, a commemorative wine tasting glass and as much wine as you would like to taste!

  (Q)  How did Big Spring Crush come about?

(A) I have wanted to do a wine festival in downtown Huntsville since I started my events business, Homegrown, three years ago.  It has been an accumulation of brainstorms with local wine reps, people who attend my other events and a sounding board of other young professionals that I call “Homegrown’s Roots”. 

  (Q) What are you most looking forward to about the festival?

(A) I’m looking forward to seeing the committee’s hard work come to fruition…that and tasting some of the great wines!

  (Q) In what ways is this festival unique to Huntsville and North Alabama?

(A) Big Spring Crush is Huntsville’s 1st wine festival and the only wine festival in North Alabama!

  (Q) Why should folks plan their vacations to the Rocket City during Big Spring Crush?

(A) It would be a great time for a getaway. Not only is the Big Spring Crush wine festival that Saturday, but The Color Run is coming to Huntsville that morning, which is a 5k run benefiting Huntsville’s Arts Council.  We’ve heard a lot of people are planning to “Run for Wine” which means run the 5k that morning and reward themselves with drinking wine that evening! 

Also, Embassy Suites is offering a discounted room rate for that Friday and Saturday night to anyone that has purchased a Big Spring Crush ticket.  It should be a great weekend in downtown Huntsville!

About Ashley Ryals

Born and raised in Huntsville, Ashley is passionate about this city and planning quality events.  She collaborates with local businesses and organizations to cultivate signature events that the community can celebrate.  Her company, Homegrown LLC, organizes a popular restaurant tour called Dine & Dash, a local brewery tour called The Beer Hop and is producing Huntsville’s first wine festival in September 2014 called Big Spring Crush.  She is married to Bo Ryals, President of Decisive Intel, and they have a one year old son named Davis.  

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Rocket City Tailgate Challenge promises all things football in pre-season tailgate extravaganza

Football season in the South. Aaaah... the sights, sounds..and perhaps most importantly, the smells, are pretty hard to beat. The tailgating experience is a must-do for any visitor. Thankfully, the Von Braun Center is replicating this one-of-a-kind experience ahead of football season. They are calling it the Rocket City Tailgate Challenge.

Presented by the Landers McLarty Group, the Rocket City Tailgate Challenge is a new family event that includes all things tailgating and football at a free expo, cooking competition and football 101 clinic. It is set to take place on Saturday, August 16 inside and around the Propst Arena from 10am-7pm.

The day kicks off with the Rocket City Tailgate Challenge Cooking Competition where individuals from around North Alabama will compete for cash prizes and the chance to win $1,000 payable the charity of their choice (must be a 501C3 company). Registration is $150 per team.

While the cooking competition is heating up outside we’ll have an expo going on inside where you can find anything and everything that you will need to make your football season a success! 

The Football 101 Clinic is for the person that enjoys the social life of football but needs to be taught the rules of the game!!!   You can find all of the details by clicking this link  www.rocketcitytailgate.com as well as a team registration form and a vendor application.

We'll see you there!

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Q&A with CVB Vice President of Conventions Bob Rogers

Huntsville/Madison County CVB VP of Conventions Bob Rogers

We recently sat down with Bob Rogers, the Huntsville/Madison County CVB’s new Vice-President of Conventions, to talk about his excitement and readiness to start a new chapter of his life at the CVB. On the job since June 9, Bob expresses his determination to spread awareness of the Rocket City as a meeting destination and work with meeting planners to ultimately recruit new business to Madison County.

As VP of Conventions, Bob leads the 5-person CVB convention team and work with meeting planners to connect them with venues, provide them with information on all things Huntsville/Madison County, from restaurants to hotels, and recruit conventions and persuade them that the Huntsville/Madison County area is the perfect place for their meeting. To contact Bob, please e-mail brogers@huntsville.org or call 256-551-2230.

"The world doesn’t work on a nine to five anymore, and we’ve got to be ready to assist folks on their time." -CVB Vice President of Conventions Bob Rogers

We are proud to welcome Bob to the CVB family. Here are some highlights from our conversation, providing you with more insight into who Bob is professionally and personally. The first question is below. To see his answer and the full Q&A, click through for the entire blog post.

(Q) Has anything surprised you in the first three weeks at the CVB?

(A) Yeah, just the amount of information. Even though I’ve been here (in Huntsville) since 1988, there’s still a lot to learn. There will always be a lot to learn.

  (Q) You were in the hotel business before this job; tell me about how your experience with hotels will help you with your job here at the CVB.

(A) I treat this not as a 280-room hotel, but as a 6,700+-room hotel. I look at it that way, and that’s how my mentality is. We’ll need partners and hotels to help us. We’ll need to go out and get business and take care of the business. We need to help them plan properly.

(Q) What are you looking forward to most as VP of Conventions?

(A) Helping people make their groups and time here as successful as it can be. From a group standpoint, filling in the gaps that aren’t normally busy, on the weekends for instance. Go after business that’ll fill the holes. Also, looking at questions like, "How can we impact the occupancy in the city?"

  (Q) How would you describe your work ethic? Why is that important?

(A) Basically my philosophy is to be there when people need me; no matter what it is. Or to be there until the job is done, much to the dismay of my wife. Or maybe she likes it, I don’t know. The world doesn’t work on a nine to five anymore, and we’ve got to be ready to assist folks on their time.

(Q)  What are some wise words that you live by?

(A) “Well done is better than well said.” Ben Franklin said that. I put that on my Twitter for a while. Someone told me it was better than putting a picture of my face up there!

  (Q) If you could give a piece of advice to a large group of people, what would it be?

(A)  Plan well, and use all the resources available to you

  (Q)  What’s the one thing you want Huntsville/Madison County hospitality industry to know about you that they may not know already?

(A) Oh, I’m an open book with them. We’re here to help them. We’re open to new ideas. We’re open to suggestions. We’re looking forward to working with them.

  (Q) Anything else? Is there a fun fact about you, maybe?

(A) Go gators!

  What does Bob love most about Huntsville? All of it of course! He does add, “I think the people are what I love most. The environment of Huntsville is great. There are things to do here, lots of things. It’s a fun city with good people in it.”

Bob’s influence on others has been abundant, and yet his gratefulness towards them is nothing shy of noteworthy: “I’ve been very fortunate to have had good people around me throughout my career. They’ve supported me my whole life.” He takes pride in all that he has done, but when asked what his biggest accomplishment is, he chuckles and says, “I’m still looking for it.”

We are looking forward to all that Bob has to offer, and we hope you are just as excited as we are! 

Be sure to follow and tweet Bob at @MeetingBob to ask him any questions or to be graced with his great sense of humor!

  What about Bob? A little background

Bob Rogers earned his Bachelors of Science Degree in Hotel, Restaurant and Travel Services at the University of Florida. Working with countless hotels and organizations, Bob has built several groups from the ground up. Working all across the country, Bob is a 30-year veteran with a successful track record in the hospitality and tourism industry.

He has held many leadership positions and received the Pineapple Award in 2004, the Huntsville/Madison County Hospitality Association’s highest honor.

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"Three Words: Ghosts, History and Fun"--- a Q &A with Huntsville Ghost Walk's Jacque Reeves

Although, it's not quite Halloween, it's always a great time for a Huntsville Ghost Walk. As Ghost Walk season officially begins in the Rocket City, we want to connect you with our friend Jacque Reeves, founder of these popular tours.

Read on. Perhaps you'll want to add this to your Huntsville to-do list. We've got to admit---they are pretty cool!

(Q) What’s new about the Ghost Walks this year?

(A) This year, the Huntsville Ghost Walk has put together, by popular demand, a bicycle tour! Our Spooks and Spokes Bicycle Tour is led by veteran tour guide, Wil Elrick, and we have researched entirely new stories. The Spooks and Spokes Bicycle Tour will only run in July and August, and some of the stories will be told in Maple Hill Cemetery, a most beautiful and serene place. We still offer the three walking tours and a trolley tour!

  (Q) What can first time “walkers” experience on the Huntsville Ghost Walks?

(A) First time walkers with the Huntsville Ghost Walk will learn a lot of local history. How can one understand that a house or location is haunted if we don’t know who haunts it or why?  We have worked with mediums who communicate with ghosts, and we have been told that the ghosts want us to tell their history. Many of our guests have had encounters and we are happy to share their stories as well. 

(Q) Which Huntsville ghost story told on the Ghost Walk gives you the spooks?

(A) Which stories give us the spooks? We all have our own favorites, but there are three that make me very uncomfortable. One is the place where a man shot two people to death in 1909 for no apparent reason. His ghost is as confused and angry as he was in life. Another is the ghost of a man who haunts the courthouse – angry because he was lynched for the murder of a farmer in 1904. He says, “Yes I did it, but he had it coming to him!” Another is a ghost who rails because he lost his fortune, and thus the respect of his peers, because of something that was his fault. The house, one of the oldest in town, is beautiful, yet it still gives me chills even in the heat of summer!

  (Q) In three words, why should folks go on a Ghost Walk this year?

(A) Three words: Ghosts, History, Fun!

  Learn more about Jacque

Jacque Reeves, a local author, writes history and crime. She is the president of the Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society, curator of the Donnell House in Athens, Associate Editor of Old Tennessee Valley Magazine, and former editor of Huntsville Historical Review and Tennessee Valley Genealogical Society’s Valley Leaves. Jacque has written 12 books, numerous short stories, and commercials. Jacque is the founder of Avalon Tours, and co-founder of Huntsville Ghost Walk and Mischief and Mayhem Tours. 

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How Homebrew Fest 2014 turned May into the Rocket City’s Craft Beer month

Event features 25+ homebrews you can’t find anywhere else…for now

Pictured (Left to Right): Homebrew Fest 2014 organizers Eric Robinson, Dan Perry and Jason Sledd

Did you enjoy Rocket City Brewfest last weekend? Well then we’ve got good news for you! The craft brew fun continues this weekend with the Second Annual Homebrew Fest at Straight to Ale on Saturday, May 17 from 3 – 10 p.m.

The event is a partnership between popular Huntsville brewery Straight to Ale and the local homebrew networking group Rocket City Brewers and celebrates the burgeoning craft and home brew scene in the Rocket City.

But don’t get too excited. All of the rules have been followed to the t, and although this event is a celebration of home brewing, all beer will be processed on site. Straight to Ale generously provided the needed ingredients and the i’s have been dotted and t’s crossed by the ABC board.

Now that we’ve gotten that out of the way, it’s time for the fun part. If you don’t already know, the Rocket City is bustling with craft beer. From Straight to Ale, to Brew Stooges, Blue Pants, Yellowhammer and much, much more, Huntsville boasts the highest number of craft breweries in the state of Alabama and is quickly becoming the premier craft beer destination in the southeast.

Craft beer is so popular here that we even have a whole weekend dedicated to it in the form of Rocket City Brewfest, which wrapped up its 2014 dates May 9 & 10. Now, thanks to a partnership between Straight to Ale and Rocket City Brewing, May is becoming the Rocket City’s de facto craft beer month, extending the fun of Rocket City Brewfest and allowing folks to taste beers not even on the market yet.

As Jason Sledd, local homebrewer, put it: “Homebrew Fest 2014 represents some of the best home brewed craft beer in North Alabama. Huntsville, AL, is one of the best areas in the state for craft beer.”

Twenty five plus home brewed beverages will be available for tasting. Admission is $5, and the first 500 people get a free souvenir glass for samples. Here’s how it works: On Saturday, May 17, head on over to Straight to Ale (located at 3200 Leeman Ferry Rd SW behind Joe Davis Stadium). At the front, you’ll pay a $5 admission charge and from there will purchase tickets for “pours.” Here’s where your sampling awesome home brews comes in. If you want to taste five local brews, you’ll purchase five tickets for $1 each. If it turns out you want more, simply head on back to the front and purchase additional tickets.

One of the coolest parts? You have a say in potentially picking the next hit beer sold at Straight to Ale. You’ll be able to vote for your “People’s Choice” favorite, and as Jason explains…

“The beer with the most votes may possibly be a future release at Straight to Ale,” said Sledd.

It’s not just all sunshine and beer though, there will be options for the whole family including live music from Divide By Zero and Whiskey Strait, and food from local food trucks On-On Tacos, Earth and Stone Wood Fired Pizza, and Sugar Belle. The first musical performance will take place around 3:00 with the final act coming on stage around 6 p.m.

Still not sure if this event is for you? We’ll let Dan Perry, co-founder of Straight to Ale Brewery, and Jason Sledd, home brewer, have the final pitch.

“At an event like this, people get to come out and try all of these tremendously creative beers of high quality that they wouldn’t get to try otherwise,” explained Perry.

“If you want to be on the cutting edge of craft brewing in Alabama, this is the event to come to and check out,” said Sledd.

_______________________________

Check out a sneak peek of some the brews you can experience this Saturday!

1. "O'Leary's Irish Red", Irish Red Ale, 5%, Eric D. Robinson 2. “Jess’s Extra Special Bitter”, ESB, 6%, Brandon Adams 3. "West Coast Roast BIPA", Black IPA, 7%, Chris Andrews 4. "Dampfbier", German Dampfbier, 5%, Jason Sledd 5. “Sledd-O-Matic Watermelon Wheat”, Wheat Ale, 5%, Jason Sledd 6. “Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Amber”, Amber Ale, 6%, Brant Warren 7. “Drink Purty Good Robust Porter”, Robust Porter, 6%, Adam Arnett 8. "Black Dynamite BIPA", Black IPA, 7%, Matt Lawson 9. "Tennessee Cream Ale”, Cream Ale, 6%, Mike Johnson 10. "Earl's Original Brown Ale”, Brown Ale, 5.1%, Kevin Pulliam 11. "Special Task Force Unicorn Double IIPA", Imperial IPA, 8.9%, Kevin Pulliam 12. "D'or Belgique de la Toussaints", Belgian Golden Strong, 7.4%, Rich Edmondson 13. "Citrusy IPA”, IPA, 6.5%, Drew Winstel 14. "King Richard's Snickerdoodle Ale", Winter Specialty Spiced Beer, 6%, Rick Bagwell 15. "Equinox Lager", Oktoberfest, 5%, Jim Morris 16. "Tallulah Bankhead Belgian Blonde", Belgian Blonde Ale, 7.2%, Dr. Jeremy Brown 17. "More Fun Blonde", American Blonde Ale, 6%, Mark Dorner 18. "Imperial Dim Wit", Imperial Wit, 8.5%, Jeff Miles 19. "Brown Dog Ale", American Brown Ale, 6%, Chris Chalmers 20. “JT’s Oatmeal Stout”, Oatmeal Stout, 6%, John Tipton 21. "Middle Earth Stout", Russian Imperial Stout, 9%, Mark Wall 22. "Ginger Peach Hefeweizen", Hefeweizen, 5.6%, Scott Obermann 23. "Usuale", American Amber, 7.2%, John Hodges 24. "Alabama Rain", American Pale Ale, 6.7%, Aubrey Stewart 25. “Todd’s Sour Fruit Ale”, Sour fruit ale, 6%, Todd Swearingen 26. "Drunken Huntsman Brown Porter", Brown Porter, 5.2%, Randall Montgomery 27. "Vanilla Bourbon Porter", Porter, 5.2%, Will Freeman 28. “Ole Number Six IIPA", Imperial IPA, 9.4%, Eric D. Robinson

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70 + live performances, STEAM, World Discovery Zone and more at this year's Panoply Arts Festival April 25 - 27

Every year, Panoply Arts Festival is one of the biggest events in downtown Huntsville and features local and regional art and performances with a global twist. We couldn't be more excited to have chatted with The Arts Council Executive Director herself, Allison Dillon-Jauken.

Read on to get the insider's view of Panoply from Dillon-Jauken.

The organization behind Panoply, The Arts Council deserves our rousing standing O for making Panoply a success year after year.

(Q) What’s different about Panoply this year?

(A) This year, we’ve taken a new approach to some old favorites at Panoply. Huntsville is known for innovation in STEM: the fields of science, technology, engineering and math. Panoply celebrates Huntsville’s innovative spark by adding the arts to the STEM equation and featuring STEAM-powered interactives for all ages throughout the festival. We’re also returning to festival seating, where patrons bring their own blankets and chairs to enjoy the 70+ live performances at the festival. There are new artists in the Art Marketplace, a revamped international area called the World Discovery Zone and more Arts In Action demonstrations too.

(Q) What’s your favorite thing to do at Panoply?

(A) I get an inside view of the festival, so my favorite memories tend to connect to our amazing volunteers and the work they do on the event. Watching them come together to produce Huntsville’s largest downtown festival is a joy!

(Q) What makes Panoply unique among art festivals in the south?

(A) Last summer, we researched events like Panoply across the nation and found that it is quite unique! Very few festivals like Panoply exist, where visual art, music, cultural exhibitions, hands-on activities and more combine for an affordable ticket price. We are proud to present this gift to the community every year.

(Q) Why should folks make time to attend this year?

(A) Panoply is the Southeast’s premier arts weekend, celebrating art, music and more, and for $10 (or $7.50 if you buy online early) there’s not a better entertainment value out there! Bring the kids (12 and under get in free) and enjoy this showcase of the local arts scene this weekend in Big Spring Park. Tickets available now at www.artshuntsville.org!

Learn more about Allison Dillon-Jauken, Executive Director of The Arts Council

Allison joined The Arts Council, Inc. in June 2009 as Executive Director, where she oversees all programmatic, education, marketing and financial operations. From 1999 – 2009, Allison served as Managing Director of Nashville Children’s Theatre (NCT). During her tenure at NCT, she expanded the Theatre’s family programming and completed a $6.7 million capital campaign to expand and renovate the Children’s Theatre’s facility. Before joining Nashville Children’s Theatre, Dillon-Jauken was Associate Director of Development for The New 42nd Street – the New York City non-profit organization charged with the redevelopment of 42nd Street’s historic theatres. Her duties at The New 42nd Street included annual fundraising for The New Victory Theatre and the capital campaign for The New 42nd Street Studios. Allison has served on the boards of TYA/USA, Nashville’s Association of Non-Profit Executives, and Nashville’s CABLE, and she is an alumni of Leadership Nashville. Past affiliations include the Denver Center for the Performing Arts, the Arizona International Youth Arts Festival, and the Palo Alto Children’s Theatre. Allison received an MFA in Theatre for Youth from Arizona State University and a BA in Drama from Stanford University. 

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Ready for a gold rush? 'Gold Mountain' coming to Burritt on the Mountain

If you've never experienced Burritt on the Mountain, it is a must-see attraction in Huntsville, Alabama. Not only is Burritt Huntsville's first and oldest museum, but its constant addition of creative activities as well as its ability to catapult you back in time to see how our ancestors once lived is truly a must-have experience for the whole family. (Not to mention the views! The views of the Tennessee Valley from Burritt on the Mountain are something every visitor should see during their adventure in the Rocket City!)

We caught up with Caroline Kelly, Development Director, at Burritt on the Mountain to get the scoop on what you can expect from them in the coming months...and why you should make Burritt a stop during your visit to Huntsville.

Burritt --- Huntsville's first museum

"There are three areas of Burritt: The Burritt Mansion, The Historic Park including the Barnyard with authentic animals, and the Nature Trails. The Mansion is very eclectic and boasts various styles of architecture. Dr. Burritt built it in an energy efficient manner before it was cool to do so.  In 1955, he left his home to the City of Huntsville where it  became Huntsville’s first museum. The Historic Park is where we have a variety of homes built primarily in the 1800s. We know a lot about each home. We have restored them to their original state, relocated them here and created a place where visitors can see first-hand how our ancestors lived day to day. Interpreters are here to answer questions and demonstrate activities that 19th century families would have taken part in. We use our Historic Park for field trips, camps, festivals, and everyday visitors. Lastly, our Nature Trails are a wonderful way to hike North Alabama. From our trails, one can access the Huntsville/Madison County LandTrust and the Monte Sano State Park, affording miles of trails at all levels for hiking and biking."

Breathtaking views of the Rocket City

"With Burritt’s large space, we have created a beautiful attraction including a breathtaking view of the city.  The animals in the barnyard are a blast to visit and we are perfect for multi-generational groups. Stories start to flow when the senior members of a group start to reminisce about growing up around animals, houses, and farm-life such as this."

Can we get a sneak peek of what to expect at Burritt in the coming months?

"We will have camps, an Easter program and Spring Farms Days featuring a County Fair. All of this will be in conjunction with our new program Gold Mountain. What is Gold Mountain, you ask? I'd be happy to tell you!

Gold Mountain – A Treasure Hunt is an exciting, interactive adventure that comes to life in March 2014. Visitors will experience the Alabama Gold Rush of 1829 for themselves. Guests will “arrive” on the stagecoach, shop in the General Store for provisions, build a cabin out of child-size faux logs, pan for gold in the sluice, get hands-on experience with daily chores, enjoy music of the time - all this and more while collecting “gold nuggets” along the way. Visitors won’t want to forget to weigh their gold and stake their claim! This adventure, geared for children ages 3 to 11, will provide hours of family fun and learning while presenting the rough and tumble life of a prospector."

Happening now at Burritt on the Mountain

"We have field trips, distance learning and home school opportunities available. We will begin a new exhibit in the mansion next month (February) about the Civil Rights Movement in Huntsville during the 1960s."

Like what you're reading? Become a member!

"Memberships are great values here. For just $75.00 a year, a family can enjoy us year round and get discounts on camps and in our gift shop Josie’s."

More about the man himself---Dr. Burritt

In 1955, physician and Huntsville native William Henry Burritt (1869-1955) willed his estate and mansion, known as Round Top Mountain, to the city of Huntsville to create our first museum. The site features Burritt's eclectic mansion, a historic park with restored nineteenth-century houses, a barnyard with authentic breeds of farm animals, a series of nature trails, and concerts, plays, festivals and exhibits. Our mission is to enhance lives and build community through educational, artistic, and recreational experiences while preserving our heritage, land, and historic structures.

With camps, special events, musical and theatrical heritage, it's too much to tell you here. Please visit the website at burrittonthemountain.com where you can find fun and educational activities for ages 2 to 100!