HBJ_Vol9-Issue2_Feb2026

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GOVERNMENT

2025 Redstone Update: Ongoing Changes in Place for Arsenal, Space Command Working to Expedite Move from Colorado

As Redstone Arsenal’s role in national defense continues to expand, the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce’s 2025 Redstone Update provided insight into the missions, investments, and organizational changes shaping the installation’s future. By Katie Holt - Page 6

NASA

Demolition of MSFC Facilities Makes Way for NASA's Next Era

When two historic test stands were demolished last weekend, it was part of a larger reno project at the Marshall Space Flight Center. By Bud McLaughlin - Page 14

ADDITIONAL STORIES

• Honoring a Leader Who Helped Shape Huntsville's Growth: Reflections on David Nasts' Legacy By Lynn Harton • Page 2

• Dr. Hayley DeGraaff's Pioneering Path in Aesthetic Medicine By Heather Price • Page 10

• Secret Artemis II Downtown Art Trail Returns, Inviting Families to Explore Huntsville's Space Legacy By Noah Logan • Page 16

Honoring a Leader Who Helped Shape Huntsville’s Growth: Reflections on David Nast’s Legacy

Communities are built by people who invest deeply in the places they call home. These leaders work to build connections, imagine what could be, and are never satisfied with the status quo.

David Nast is one of those leaders. His influence on Huntsville’s business community, the state of Alabama, and United Community will be felt for decades to come.

David’s retirement gives us the opportunity to honor his contributions and acknowledge the impact he has had on the teams, customers, and communities he has served.

As the founder of Progress Bank in 2008, he built a community-focused institution at a time when Huntsville’s growth was accelerating. He understood the area’s momentum, its entrepreneurial drive, and its values. His vision helped Progress Bank become a trusted partner for families and businesses across the area.

When Progress Bank joined United Community in 2023, David’s leadership was essential to ensuring a smooth and thoughtful transition. He remained with United as Alabama State President, guiding his team and customers through the integration with the same calm, principled leadership that had defined his career. It is not easy moving from the CEO role, particularly a founding CEO role, to a market leadership role. But David knew the importance of continuity, and he understood that United needed him to help make the right decisions for the market. I suspect he knew as well that he would need to push back at times, because even when corporate intentions are well founded, making decisions work locally requires flexibility and local decision mak-

ing. And so, David stayed with us after the merger.

And because David stayed, his team remained confident and engaged – and they stayed. And because his team stayed, customers continued to experience the continuity and personal service they had come to expect – and they stayed.

That stability became one of the great strengths of our combined organization and a key reason the transition has been so successful.

I am fortunate to have had the opportunity to see David’s approach to leadership in person. He believes in putting people first, leading with integrity, and building teams who care deeply about their work and the communities they serve. Today, the team he developed continues to support commercial loan operations across our company, and the standards he set continue to influence the way United shows up across Alabama.

At United Community, one of our values is what we call “The Golden Rule of Banking” – treating each other and our customers the way we would want to be treated. David and his team fit perfectly

with that value. As United Community looks to the future, we remain committed to building on the foundation David helped shape. Alabama is an essential part of our footprint, and we are investing in its growth with the kind of personal, proactive, community-driven service that has long defined our bank.

I am grateful for David’s leadership, proud to celebrate his retirement, and committed to carrying forward the work he set in motion as we build a future wor-

thy of the people and communities of Alabama.

Lynn Harton serves as chief executive officer of United Community, a top 100 U.S. financial institution serving six states across the Southeast. United is an 11time winner of J.D. Power’s award for highest customer satisfaction among consumer banks in the Southeast and was named the most trusted bank in the region in 2025. The company has also been recognized nine consecutive years by American Banker as one of the “Best Banks to Work For.” In commercial banking, United earned five 2025 Greenwich Best Brand awards, including national honors for middle market satisfaction. w

PUBLIC NOTICE

The City of Huntsville Madison County Engineering Department, in accordance with National Flood Insurance Program regulation 65.7(b)(1), hereby gives notice of a third-party applicant’s intent to revise the flood hazard information, generally located upstream of Heiga Burrow Road. Specifically, the flood hazard information will be revised along Hambrick Slough Trib 1 from just upstream of Heiga Burrow Rd, to a point approximately 3,000 feet upstream of Heiga Burrow Rd.

As a result of the revision, the floodway shall be established, the 1percent-annual-chance water-surface elevations shall be established, and the 1-percent-annual-chance floodplain will widen and narrow within the area of revision.

For further information, the applicant’s Engineer, Bobby Douglass/ Red Mountain Engineering, can be contacted at 205-730-6040 or bdouglass@redmountaineng.com. If an in-person review is needed at Huntsville City Hall at 305 Fountain Circle Huntsville, Alabama 35801, interested parties should call the City Hydrologist at 256-427-5300 between 9am and 4 pm to schedule an appointment.

President /Publisher

Editor

Writers

PUBLIC NOTICE

The City of Huntsville, Madison County Engineering Department, in accordance with National Flood Insurance Program regulation 65.7(b) (1), hereby gives notice of a third-party applicant’s intent to revise the flood hazard information, generally located just downstream of Gates Mill St NW. Specifically, the flood hazard information will be revised along Indian Creek from a point just downstream of Gates Mill St NW to a point approximately 400 feet downstream of Gates Mill St NW.

As a result of the revision, the floodway will narrow, the 1- percentannual-chance water-surface elevations shall increase and decrease, and the 1-percent-annual-chance floodplain will widen and narrow within the area of revision.

For further information, maps, and detailed analysis of the revision, the applicant’s Engineer, Bobby Douglass/Red Mountain Engineering, can be contacted at 205-730-6040 or bdouglass@redmountaineng.com. If an in-person review is needed at Huntsville City Hall at 305 Fountain Circle Huntsville, Alabama 35801, interested parties should call the City Hydrologist at 256-427-5300 between 9am and 4 pm to schedule an appointment.

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Website

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Thursday

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Huntsville Business Journal is published monthly by EVENT Publishing, PO Box 14219, Huntsville, AL 35815

For advertising information call 256.533.8078, e-mail todd@eventhuntsville.com, or visit us on the web at www.huntsvillebusinessjournal.com For editorial information contact editor@huntsvillebusinessjournal.com

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Community Foundation of Greater Huntsville Celebrates $100 Million in Grants Distributed

The Community Foundation of Greater Huntsville (CFGH) has reached an impressive goal in distributing $100 million in grants since its founding in 2008.

According to the organization, more than 78% of grant funds awarded went to recipients in Huntsville and North Alabama. Over 2,000 nonprofits have received funding from the CFGH during the past 18 years.

Melissa Thompson, CEO & president of the Community Foundation of Greater Huntsville, said the milestone highlights the overall effect of purposeful donor investment.

“This milestone tells a powerful story about what is possible when generosity is focused and strategic. Every dollar granted from our donors reflects a shared belief in our community’s bright future,” Thompson said.

Reflecting on the foundation’s growth and mark on North Alabama, Thompson pointed to the role of intentional giving in strengthening the area.

“At the Community Foundation, we believe that generosity has the power to change lives, change communities, and even change the future. That’s why our mission is to support donors in mobilizing generosity to improve the quality of life in our community,” she said.

Lynn Troy, the foundation’s board chair, explained how the organization has brought Huntsville

and the surrounding area together to create a lasting impact on the community.

“This work doesn't happen by accident. It happens because for the past 17 years, extraordinary community leaders have served on our board of directors, helping guide the foundation to new strategic heights,” Troy said.

Troy thanked the community leaders who have given their time to support the foundation’s mission through volunteer service, advocacy, and leadership.

“I also want to recognize our nonprofit partners who translate donor generosity into real change on the ground, whether strengthening

families, expanding education opportunities and healthcare resources, supporting the arts, protecting our natural resources, advancing innovation, and caring for our most vulnerable,” Troy said.

Sarah Savage-Jones, the CEO of Huntsville Hospital Foundation, noted her organization’s strong relationship with the CFGH.

“Huntsville Hospital Foundation is incredibly proud to be part of the Community Foundation's story and the fabric of this community,” Savage-Jones said.

Savage-Jones shared that, thanks to the CFGH and its generous donors, the Huntsville Hospital Foundation has peace of

mind, knowing it can provide its patients with the resources and help they need.

“Like all of our fellow nonprofits, our ability to meet our community needs depends on philanthropy. In our case, this giving heals, comforts, and supports, ensuring our patients have access to the tools and the technology and programs right here in our community,” she stated.

Savage-Jones also echoed Troy’s comments on the teamwork mindset that has defined Huntsville and the surrounding area throughout the years.

“We talk about the secret sauce that makes Huntsville and Madison County different. While we have many elements that set us apart (our public school systems, economic development opportunities, and robust arts and nonprofit communities), I argue that the one thing that sets us apart is our spirit of servant leadership and collaboration that permeates every aspect of this community,” she said.

Looking to the future, Thompson emphasized the foundation’s long-term commitment to serving the region and investing in future generations.

“Our commitment to you is to continue that service many, many years ahead to plant trees under whose shade we may never sit, but to know that together we are building a stronger community,” Thompson said. w

2025 Redstone Update: Ongoing Changes in Place for Arsenal, Space Command Working to Expedite Move from Colorado

As Redstone Arsenal’s role in national defense continues to expand, the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce’s 2025 Redstone Update provided insight into the missions, investments, and organizational changes shaping the installation’s future.

Held on Wednesday, December 10, at the Von Braun Center, the annual update brought together military leaders, federal agency representatives, and community stakeholders to discuss both the opportunities and challenges facing one of North Alabama’s largest economic drivers.

Deputy to the Commanding General, U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command (SMDC), Richard De Fatta, said his organization has nearly quadrupled in size by integrating two Army Air and Missile Defense Commands (AAMDC).

De Fatta said with this growth, SMDC is shifting its focus to become a more comprehensive war-fighting headquarters.

“The addition of these two AAMDCs enhances our capacity and capabilities in air and missile defense and underpins our transformation into a lethal war-fighting command. SMDC now truly has assigned forces covering mud to space,” De Fatta said.

De Fatta continued, “Our focus on homeland defense has never been greater, and you'll see that continue to take shape moving forward.”

Deputy Assistant Director of the FBI Kevin Jones spoke about the agency’s South Campus at Redstone, which is being constructed to function as an advanced, graduatelevel training facility.

According to Jones, the facility is expected to be completed in 2030 and is projected to train 13,000 personnel annually in Huntsville.

“The growth and development of the FBI workforce to advance our mission for the next generation is really enabled by these campus facilities. We certainly realize that all of that was made possible with the partnerships of

you all in this room,” Jones said.

During the luncheon portion of the event, Army Materiel Command Deputy Commanding General & Redstone Arsenal Senior Commander Lt. Gen. Gavin Lawrence addressed a packed room.

Lawrence alluded to the challenges Redstone Arsenal and its workforce have faced this year, including a government shutdown and the rapid transformation underway within the U.S. Army.

“I think we can all agree that this year has been unlike any other for the installation and for our nation. The pace of change has been unrelenting, but through it all, we have stayed resilient, we have stayed positive, and we have stayed focused on our missions,” Lawrence said.

Lawrence said Redstone as a whole is proud of the work they do and is ready to welcome U.S. Space Command to Huntsville.

“Redstone is thriving, and it remains a federal center of excellence where the Army, the FBI, NASA, and other agencies come together to drive innovation and to advance our nation's interests,” Lawrence said.

The luncheon’s highly anticipated keynote speaker featured the Commander of U.S. Space Command, General Stephen Whiting.

Whiting spoke about space’s foundational role in modern life and national defense.

Whiting said that space “ …enables commerce, it enables medicine, it enables education all across this planet. If we were to lose space, we

By: Katie Holt /

would go back decades, and that's not something that we want to do.”

Discussing the command’s relocation process, Whiting emphasized the importance of maintaining uninterrupted operations.

“Now, as we move here expeditiously in a disciplined fashion, it's our responsibility to make sure that the vital missions that we conduct each and every day at U.S. Space Command … are not impacted as we move here,” Whiting said.

He noted that the transition requires coordination across multiple organizations and levels of government.

“As you can imagine, this is a very complex undertaking with a lot of considerations and a lot of stakeholders that are involved,” Whiting said.

Whiting continued, “Our small but growing transition office, what we call our program management office, is now up and running at Redstone.”

General Whiting specifically thanked the Alabama Congressional delegation for including language that provides military construction reforms in the draft of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).

He explained that if this legislation becomes law, “… it's going to provide some new ways of doing business, which should accelerate our move here to Huntsville.”

The Senate is likely to vote on the NDAA this week before legislators leave D.C. for holiday break.

Lawrence closed the luncheon by highlighting the collaborative role the Huntsville community plays in supporting Redstone’s expanding missions.

“Together we will continue to navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, ensuring that Redstone Arsenal remains at the forefront of innovation, at the forefront of excellence. We have a lot to look forward to in 2026, and I'm absolutely excited to see what this community will do next,” Lawrence said. w

Huntsville Nightlife Businesses Launch Unified Safety Initiative While Navigating Privacy Questions

Huntsville City Councilwoman Michelle Watkins joined local club and restaurant owners this week to announce a coordinated, business-led effort to improve safety across the city’s nightlife scene, following months of disturbances at some establishments.

Watkins acknowledged the business owners who participated in the initiative, highlighting their contributions to Huntsville’s economy and community. She said the announcement followed reports of fights, violence, and disruptive behavior at certain nightlife venues. Rather than relying solely on city enforcement, the initiative emphasized a proactive approach led by business owners, focusing on prevention, accountability, and shared standards.

George Mondane, a business owner and organizer of North Huntsville Connect, led the presentation for the coalition. The group included 18 businesses at launch and planned to expand. Mondane said the coalition formed after years of frustration among business owners who felt excluded from discussions about nightlife safety.

“This is historic work,” Mondane said. “Our mission is to ensure nightlife spaces remain safe, thriving, and respected. We are industry leaders and community partners with a shared goal of accountability, safety, and preserving Huntsville’s nightlife.”

Jabar Westbrook, who owns eight businesses across Huntsville, said a small number of repeat offenders often caused problems at multiple venues.

“Violence, fights, disturbances,” Westbrook said. “It’s the same people going from place to place.”

The initiative’s centerpiece was a shared ID scanning system designed to prevent repeat incidents. Participating venues used IDVisor Smart V2 scanners, manufactured by TokenWorks Inc., to verify age and check IDs at entry. If a patron had been banned from one participating venue for violent or disruptive behavior, the system alerted staff at other coalition locations and denied entry.

Mondane said individuals involved in serious incidents faced temporary, coalition-wide bans. He described the system as a deterrent rather than a punishment. Each scanner cost about $1,000, with additional cloud service

fees. Coalition leaders said the system promoted accountability without direct law enforcement involvement.

Organizers said ID data was used strictly for age verification and access control. They said information was stored securely, was not shared with police or the public, and administrators could set retention limits so data was deleted after a defined period unless an individual was flagged for misconduct.

The use of ID scanning technology raised broader legal and privacy questions nationally. TokenWorks, the manufacturer of the scanners, was named in a class-action lawsuit in Illinois alleging violations of the state’s Biometric Information Privacy Act.

The lawsuit, filed in Cook County circuit court, alleges that visitors to certain stores had their biometric data captured, collected, stored, and disseminated without their consent. Plaintiffs contend that TokenWorks’ IDentiFake scanners were used to carry out these actions.

The heart of the matter lies in the assertion that TokenWorks’ scanners, which are primarily intended for identity verification, might have also collected biometric data for unauthorized purposes. This raises concerns about the extent to which biometric information is being harvested without individuals’ knowledge or explicit consent. Notably, the lawsuit claims that TokenWorks profited from clients who utilize their scanners, further emphasizing the potential implications of this alleged data mishandling.

The case did not involve Huntsville businesses or Alabama law. Illinois has some of the strictest biometric privacy rules in the country, and recent amendments capped damages and clarified consent requirements. No settlement or judgment had been announced as of late 2025. Coalition leaders emphasized that the scanners in Huntsville did not collect fingerprints or facial data and processed ID information locally for verification.

Mondane said the initiative focused on accountability and safety inside businesses rather than surveillance. There was no formal partnership with the

Huntsville Police Department, but business owners said they communicated with security teams and law enforcement when necessary.

Recent closures highlighted the urgency of the initiative. 708 Bar and Grille temporarily closed after the City filed a lawsuit alleging it was a public nuisance following multiple shootings in a short period. Westbrook said the closure illustrated how incidents could affect both business revenue and community enjoyment.

Supporters of North Huntsville Connect said the coalition represented a shift in how nightlife safety was addressed, with business owners taking collective responsibility. City leaders and business owners said the initiative would continue to evolve as additional venues joined and policies were refined. Organizers described the effort as a step toward safer nightlife while balancing security, privacy, and public trust. w

Madison Joins Multi-City Lawsuit Over Online Sales Tax Distribution

The Madison City Council has voted to join a multi-city lawsuit challenging Alabama’s distribution of online sales tax revenue under the Simplified Sellers Use Tax, or SSUT. The council also approved a resolution supporting the City of Tuscaloosa’s legal efforts to change how online sales tax dollars are distributed so that more revenue remains in the communities where purchases occur.

The decision follows a work session held recently, during which Madison council members received a detailed briefing on how SSUT revenue is collected and redistributed statewide. Tuscaloosa Mayor Walt Maddox and members of his staff led the presentation, outlining why Tuscaloosa initiated legal action against the Alabama Department of Revenue and how the current system affects municipal budgets and school funding.

“After conducting a work session last Wednesday night to learn how local Madison tax dollars are redistributed under the current SSUT law, the Madison City Council voted to approve a resolution supporting Tuscaloosa’s efforts in seeking appropriate application of SSUT law that does not divert significant tax revenue away from local governments and school systems in communities where taxable sales occur,” said Amanda Jarrett, MBA, APR, director of operations and communications for the City of Madison.

Madison now joins a growing list of cities challenging the state’s SSUT framework, which applies a flat 8 percent tax to online purchases made through eligible sellers. The system was originally designed to simplify tax collection from out-of-state retailers without a physical presence in Alabama, at a time when e-commerce represented a much smaller share of consumer spending.

City leaders argue that while online shopping has expanded rapidly, the SSUT distribution formula has remained largely unchanged and no longer reflects current purchasing behavior. Under the law, half of the

SSUT revenue goes to the state and is split between the General Fund and the Education Trust Fund. The remaining half is distributed to municipalities and counties based solely on population, not where the purchases are made.

Local officials say that structure disadvantages fast-growing communities with higher household incomes and significant online purchasing activity. Madison Finance Director David Lawing previously told council members that the SSUT system limits the city’s revenue potential compared to traditional sales taxes.

The impact is visible when comparing Madison to Huntsville. While Madison’s SSUT disbursements have steadily increased since the tax was

implemented, the city’s growth has been far outpaced by Huntsville’s distributions, despite Madison’s residents generating significant online spending.

Estimated SSUT disbursements show Huntsville receiving more than $13 million in 2022, compared to roughly $3.4 million for Madison. City leaders argue that the gap is not a reflection of online purchasing behavior, but of a distribution model that favors larger population centers over the actual origin of taxable sales.

Madison expects to receive about $4 million in SSUT revenue in 2025, compared with roughly $21 million from regular sales taxes collected on brick-and-mortar purchases. City leaders say that gap underscores how

heavily Madison relies on in-person sales tax revenue, even as residents increasingly shop online.

A local financial professional who wishes to remain anonymous said the SSUT structure also creates competitive challenges for local businesses. Large online retailers such as Amazon can participate in the SSUT program and collect a flat 8 percent tax statewide, regardless of local tax rates. By contrast, local retailers must collect the full local sales tax, which in some cities can be several percentage points higher.

“This creates an unfair advantage for online retailers on top of their ability to undercut local shops on price due to volume,” the professional said. “It also hurts smaller cities because the municipal portion of SSUT is distributed across all cities based on population rather than where purchases are made.”

Tuscaloosa Mayor Walt Maddox has argued that the SSUT system diverts revenue away from communities generating significant online sales and

weakens local budgets over time.

“Alabama’s Simplified Sellers Use Tax takes revenue generated in our community and sends it elsewhere,” Maddox said. “Despite repeated attempts to work with the Alabama Department of Revenue, our concerns remain unaddressed, leaving us no choice but to take legal action.”

Mobile and Hoover formally joined the lawsuit on Monday, with additional cities expected to intervene. Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson has been one of the most outspoken critics of the SSUT distribution model, calling it a long-term threat to local governments and small businesses.

“We are giving Amazon and all of the out-of-state businesses a tax cut,” Stimpson said during a recent public address. “You are starting to look around and seeing mom-and pop stores shutter because they cannot compete.”

Stimpson estimates Mobile has lost roughly $200 million in revenue since SSUT was implemented nearly a decade ago. Hoover Mayor Nick Derzis said his city loses between $7 million and $10 million annually under the current system, money he argues should be reinvested locally in public safety, infrastructure and community services.

County officials, however, have pushed back strongly against proposed changes. Sonny Brasfield, executive director of the Association of County Commissions of Alabama, warned that counties would oppose any restructuring of SSUT, arguing

the system is an efficient way to collect online sales taxes.

SSUT was established by Act 2015-448 and has since been amended to expand eligibility and include marketplace facilitators. While the system has generated significant revenue statewide, city leaders argue its population-based distribution model fails to account for where online purchases originate.

The disparity is visible in North Alabama. Madison is projected to receive about $4 million in SSUT revenue in 2025, while Huntsville expects nearly $20.5 million. Madison County is expected to receive roughly $15.1 million. City leaders argue the difference reflects population weighting rather than actual purchasing behavior, particularly in higher-income suburbs like Madison.

Huntsville City Council Member John Meredith has said the system affects both municipal operations and school funding. “It really has a negative impact on the city’s coffers,” Meredith said, “but also a tremendous amount on the schools.”

As the lawsuit moves forward, Madison officials say the city will continue evaluating the long-term impact of SSUT on its budget and coordinating with other municipalities. Supporters of the legal challenge argue that aligning online sales tax distribution with where purchases are made is increasingly critical as e-commerce continues to reshape consumer behavior across Alabama. w

Dr. Hayley DeGraaff’s Pioneering Path in Aesthetic Medicine

When Dr. Hayley DeGraaff opened Advanced Life Clinic in 2004, aesthetic medicine looked very different than it does today.

“At that time, it was unusual for somebody with a primary care background to step into aesthetics,” DeGraaff said. “It really was a pioneering field.”

Her vision for Advanced Life Clinic included functional hormone wellness, anti-aging medicine, and a small aesthetic component. But as aesthetic medicine became more popular and the introduction of Botox and dermal fillers transformed cosmetic care, that side of the clinic grew quickly, and DeGraaff found herself at the center of the aesthetic medicine boom.

Despite increased popularity and acceptance of aesthetic medicine, DeGraaff said it’s still a common misconception that aesthetic and anti-aging medicine is purely frivolous or vanity-driven and therefore not really medicine. In reality, she says, the work often carries deep emotional and psychological benefits for patients.

“These things aren’t just cosmetic,” DeGraaff explained. “They help people re-enter life, re-enter the

workforce, or simply feel like themselves again.”

Another common assumption is that aesthetic care is unaffordable. While many treatments are not covered by insurance, DeGraaff clarified that some treatments are more affordable than people might expect, especially when compared to surgical alternatives.

“Most of the companies that sell the products that we use have patient loyalty programs with coupons and rebates, and incentives that really help our patients keep this affordable,” DeGraaff explained.

DeGraaff said, where the body’s own regenerative healing properties are used to regenerate and restore. Treatments like Platelet Rich Plasma are now at the forefront of the clinic’s offerings. PRP involves drawing a patient’s blood, processing it without additives, and reinjecting it into targeted areas to stimulate healing and regeneration.

“We can use it on the face, hands, or anywhere we want to regenerate tissue,” DeGraaff said. “It’s the same concept used in orthopedics for athletes, it just has an aesthetic application here.”

As the practice has matured, so has DeGraaff’s role. While she’s trained across a wide spectrum of services, she’s gravitated toward the work she finds most fulfilling.

“I really love injectables—Botox,

“There are price points for all ages, and it's mostly allinclusive. We have lasers that we can use on most skin types and products, and injectables that are available for either gender or any budget, and all age groups.”

There’s a lot of enthusiasm right now around regenerative medicine,

By: Heather Price /

DeGraaff

fillers, PRP—more than lasers, and even more than hormone management,” she said.

Over time, she’s delegated many services to skilled laser technicians, nurses, and nurse practitioners, allowing her to focus on patient care that plays to her strengths.

“When you first start out, you have to be a jack of all trades,” she said. “But as you grow, it’s nice to get to a place where you can delegate and really focus on what you enjoy.”

Originally from Arkansas, DeGraaff has called Huntsville home for nearly 30 years, and her Huntsville roots run deep. She raised her children in Huntsville, watched them graduate from Huntsville High, and built a practice that has served generations of patients here.

“This is home,” she said. “I’m not going anywhere.” w

“While we celebrate our history, we’re equally focused on our future.”

With those words, Dr. Karen Frith, dean of the UAH College of Nursing, opened the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Leadership Breakfast.

The second annual event, “Shaping the Healthcare Community of the Future,” was held Wednesday at UAH and featured keynote speaker Catherine Coleman Flowers, founder of the Center for Rural Enterprise and Environmental Justice, and a panel discussion with Flowers and Dr. Leon Lewis of Huntsville Hospital.

“The vision is to build a sustainable program that other schools across Alabama can replicate and learn how to be compassionate and loving and advocate effectively.”

The breakfast helped to explore King’s leadership and service principles and highlight those in the community working to build a healthier, more equitable tomorrow.

Emphasizing the importance of education’s involvement in community healthcare, Frith said UAH’s Neighborhood Nursing will start in two weeks. The community-driven model brings care, education and policy insight directly to the people who need it most.

“We’re going where people live, work, play and pray,” she said. “The vision is to build a sustainable program that other schools across Alabama can replicate and learn how to be compassionate and loving and advocate effectively.”

Flowers, “just a country girl from Lowndes County,” reached back into her background as she stressed the

Shaping the Healthcare

Community

By: Bud McLaughlin / Photos courtesy

importance of healthcare in rural Alabama and America.

It was a return to her home county - between Selma and Montgomerywith a medical team that opened her eyes and shocked her.

“There was raw sewage flowing down a hill and there were cases of hookworm,” Flowers said. “I thought that had been eradicated.”

She said they discovered there were other tropical parasites, likening

the area to the poor villages of Brazil.

Before the visit, doctors had been unable to help treat people there because there was “something in the community that doctors aren’t prepared to look for.”

“When we connected the sanitary conditions to health issues, people listened,” she said. “One of the things COVID taught us is what happens over there can happen over here.

“The next outbreak may not

necessarily begin in China. It could originate in Lowndes County or Tanner.”

In the panel discussion with Lewis, Flowers said the key to prevention is to have a strong healthcare system and everyone has to have access to healthcare.

“The reason I’m 67 years old is because of the access to healthcare,” she said.

Lewis, an OB-GYN physician at

Community of the Future

courtesy of Michael Mercier/UAH

Huntsville Hospital, is a Fellow with the American College of Obstetrics & Gynecology. He also served as chair of the Huntsville Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and was chairperson of Quality-of-Life Health Services, Department of OB-GYN.

He echoed Flowers’ comments on access and cited community health

workers as “the pipeline to health care” and stressed the importance of proactive action to keeping healthy.

Despite cuts to healthcare by federal agencies and saying there’s no “magic bullet yet” to deal with healthcare issues, Flowers insisted that federal help and communication are key.

“The people are making decisions (about community needs) but have never been through the communities,” she said. “Having a working relationship is vital.”

She gave NASA’s waste recycling program on the space station as an example of federal help in solving a problem.

“We’re hoping to work with NASA to come away with ways to treat wastewater to help communities,” Flowers said.

To close out the discussion, Flowers and Lewis were asked their final words.

“Vote,” said Flowers.

“Organize,” Lewis said. w

NASA

Demolition of MSFC Facilities Makes Way for NASA’s Next Era

When two historic test stands were demolished last weekend, it was part of a larger reno project at the Marshall Space Flight Center.

The project targeted inactive structures to help create “an interconnected campus ready for the next era of space exploration,” Marshall officials said.

The Propulsion and Structural Test Facility and the Dynamic Test Facility, which were part of the area’s space legacy, were brought down Jan. 10 with coordinated implosions.

“Each one of these structures helped NASA make history,”

Around mid-December, crews began the demolition of the nearly 60-year-old Neutral Buoyancy Simulator.

The facility, which was closed in 1997, provided a simulated zero-gravity environment for astronauts and to test space hardware. It was one of the few places in the world that could recreate weightlessness or nearweightlessness.

“Each one of these structures helped NASA make history,” said MSFC Acting Director Rae Ann Meyer. “While it is hard to let them go, they’ve earned their retirement. The people who built and managed these facilities and empowered our mission of space exploration are the most important part of their legacy.”

During the implosion and after, people were expressing on social media their disappointment that the iconic test stands could not be preserved.

However, Meyer said that was not a consideration.

“These structures are not safe,”

By: Bud McLaughlin /

“Strategic demolition is a necessary step in shaping the future of NASA’s mission to explore, innovate, and inspire. ”

she said. “Strategic demolition is a necessary step in shaping the future of NASA’s mission to explore, innovate, and inspire. By removing these structures that we have not used in decades, we are saving money on upkeep of facilities we can’t use.”

“We also are making these areas safe to use for future NASA exploration endeavors and investments.”

The Propulsion and Structural Test Facility – also known as the “T-tower” due to its shape – was built in 1957 by the Army Ballis-

NASA

“We also are making these areas safe to use for future NASA exploration endeavors and investments.”

tic Missile Agency and transferred to NASA when Marshall was founded in 1960. There, engineers tested components of the Saturn launch vehicles, the Army’s Red-

stone Rocket, and shuttle solid rocket boosters.

It was last used for space shuttle solid rocket motor tests in the 1990s.

Built in 1964, the Dynamic Test Stand initially was used to test fully assembled Saturn V rockets. In 1978, engineers integrated all space shuttle elements for the first time, including the orbiter, external fuel tank, and solid rocket boosters.

The Marshall landmark was last used in the early 2000s for microgravity testing.

So, as “all good things must come to an end,” this era of space history in Huntsville wraps up.

But the next era will dawn in a few weeks when Artemis-2 and its crew of four launch from Cape Canaveral, carried by a Marshall-

designed, -tested and -managed SLS rocket.

For the first time in about a half century, Americans will orbit the moon, marking another step in a planned return to the lunar surface and another milestone in the legacy of the Marshall Space Flight Center and its people. w

Secret Artemis II Downtown Art Trail Returns, Inviting Families to Explore Huntsville’s Space Legacy

The Secret Artemis II Downtown Art Trail has officially returned to downtown Huntsville, relaunching a space-themed scavenger hunt designed to celebrate the city’s decades-long role in America’s space program while encouraging residents and visitors to explore the urban core.

“Huntsville has been intertwined with space exploration for more than seventy years, and the Secret Artemis II Trail is a creative way to celebrate that legacy while inspiring the next generation,”

First introduced in 2022 to commemorate NASA’s inaugural Artemis launch, the interactive trail once again features ten one-foot-tall Artemis rocket models hidden throughout downtown Huntsville. The experience invited participants of all ages to search for the miniature rockets while learning about Huntsville’s more than 70-year legacy as a hub for

space exploration.

The relaunch was hosted by the Rocket City Artemis II Community Planning Committee in partnership with Teledyne Brown Engineering and Downtown Huntsville, Inc. The trail’s return was marked by a community celebration on December 16 at the Mayor’s Tinsel Trail Tree in Big Spring Park West.

NASA

Mayor Tommy Battle, City of Huntsville

Speakers at the event included Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle, Madison County Commission Chairman Mac McCutcheon, Marshall Space Flight Center Interim Director Rae Ann Meyer and Ron Poteat, interim CEO of Downtown Huntsville, Inc.

“Huntsville has been intertwined with space exploration for more than seventy years, and the Secret Artemis II Trail is a creative way to celebrate that legacy while inspiring the next generation,” Poteat said. “By bringing space-themed art into our streets and public spaces, we’re reminding our community that Huntsville’s role in reaching for the stars doesn’t just live inside laboratories and launch pads. It lives in our downtown, our small businesses and our local artists.”

Organizers designed the trail as a free, family-friendly activity that doubles as a walking tour of downtown. Participants can begin the experience by picking up an official trail card at the Downtown Huntsville, Inc. office or the Huntsville Madison County Convention and Visitors Bureau. The card lists general areas where the rockets are hidden, leaving explorers to locate each one on their own.

Once all ten rockets are found,

participants can follow the instructions on the back of the trail card to receive an official Artemis II vinyl sticker. Organizers said the reward adds an extra incentive for families and visitors to complete the full route and spend time downtown.

The trail also highlighted Huntsville’s ongoing role in NASA’s Artemis program. Artemis II builds on the success of the uncrewed Artemis I mission in 2022 and will be the first Space Launch System flight to carry astronauts. The 10-day mission will send four astronauts around the Moon, marking the farthest humans have traveled from Earth in more than half a century.

Several key components of the Space Launch System were designed and built in Huntsville, including the Launch Vehicle Stage Adapter produced by Teledyne Brown Engineering. Organizers said those local contributions made downtown an ideal setting to showcase the city’s influence on the future of human spaceflight.

The Secret Artemis II Downtown Art Trail remains available for the public, offering a way for families, tourists and space enthusiasts to enjoy downtown Huntsville while engaging with the city’s aerospace heritage. w

EDUCATION

Madison Resident and Former Educator Releases Book, Invests in North Alabama Students Through New Literacy Nonprofit

Dr. Yanique Rolingson is a Madison resident and an educator with nearly 20 years of experience. Originally from Jamaica, she began her teaching career in New Jersey and later worked as an educator and instructional coach in the Decatur and Madison County area.

“It invites educators and anyone who works with children to pause, reflect, and remember why their work still matters.”

In August 2025, Rolingson left the school system to found her nonprofit literacy and academic coaching program, S.N.A.P. Academy. She also became a published author with the release of her book, A Lamp to Their Path, in December 2025.

“A Lamp to Their Path grew out of my years in education and leadership. I noticed how many teachers felt tired, unseen, and disconnected from the purpose that first brought them into the profession,” Rolingson said.

Rolingson continued, “It invites educators and anyone who works with children to pause, reflect, and remember why their work still matters. It’s not telling teachers how to do their job; it's showing them a different perspective on the situations.”

A Lamp to Their Path is available online at Barnes & Noble and Amazon. In 2026, Rolingson will travel to local bookstores and libraries to speak about the book and meet with fellow educators.

S.N.A.P. (Stop, Notice, Action, Plan) Academy serves students in grades two through six with a strong emphasis on reading, writing, and reflection. Rolingson hopes this framework will help students slow down, think deeply, and build confidence as learners.

“I started S.N.A.P. Academy because I saw too many children

being moved along academically without mastering foundational skills and too many families unsure where to turn for meaningful support,” Rolingson said.

Rolingson said her approach to better learning outcomes centers on people rather than programs.

“Families want support that feels personal, not transactional. Teachers want to feel valued, not overwhelmed,” she shared.

“S.N.A.P. Academy and the book reflect a commitment to this community, supporting students, strengthening families, and uplifting educators,” Rolingson said.

According to Rolingson, most families find her program through community referrals such as schools, counselors, churches, libraries, youth programs, and parent word of mouth, along with local events and social media.

Families qualify for the program through an intake conversation and a brief pre-assessment. Rolingson then meets with parents to understand the child’s story, then uses the pretest to pinpoint reading and writing needs and set a plan.

She says S.N.A.P. prioritizes students who need targeted support and families who are consistently ready to partner.

By: Katie Holt /

“S.N.A.P. isn’t tutoring in the traditional sense. It’s academic coaching. We work in small groups, partner closely with families, and focus on building thinkers, not just test takers,” Rolingson said.

According to Rolingson, the area’s ongoing growth underscores the need for stronger educational support systems.

“I chose Madison County because it is growing rapidly, but growth brings challenges, especially in education. This is home for me now, and I believe in investing where you’re planted,” Rolingson concluded. w

BRIEFCASE

Drake State President Patricia Sims

Reappointed to Alabama Port Authority Board

Governor Kay Ivey has reappointed Drake State Community & Technical College President Dr. Patricia Sims to the Alabama Port Authority Board of Directors. Sims will serve as the representative of the Northern District.

Dr. Sims previously served on the Port Authority board from August 2020 through July 2025, completing her first five-year term. Mr. Tony Cochran and the Honorable Sandy Stimpson were also reappointed to the board.

Established by legislative act in 2000, the nine-member Port Authority board holds fiscal and policy oversight for the public seaport. The Port Authority owns and operates the State of Alabama’s water port facilities at the Port of Mobile, one of the nation’s largest seaports.

“It’s an honor to continue serving on the Port Authority board,” said Dr. Sims. “The work we’ve been doing is critical to Alabama’s economy, and I look forward to building on the progress we’ve made as we advance the Port’s strategic initiatives.”

The Authority’s container, general cargo and bulk facilities handle cargo with immediate access to two interstate systems, five Class 1 railroads, and nearly 15,000 miles of inland waterways. The cargo and vessel activity associated with the Port Authority’s assets support tens of thousands of jobs across Alabama and generates billions in economic value for the state. w

One of the Oldest Shopping Centers in Huntsville Has New Ownership

Westbury Square on Airport Road has been purchased by JLL Income Property Trust from Branch Properties for about $32 million, the firm has announced. JLL is a Chicago-based net asset value real estate investment trust. In a news release on the purchase, the firm cited the area's booming

economy, including its combination of affordable living, quality education and high-paying jobs that contribute to its continued population growth.

"Westbury Square is a strategic addition to our retail portfolio," said Allan Swaringen, president and CEO of JLL Income Property Trust. "As core real estate investors, we target retail centers with strong demographics, favorable operating fundamentals and credit-worthy tenant lineups."

The 12-acre retail/dining center in South Huntsville is anchored by TJ Maxx and Michaels with other tenants such as Rolo's Cafe, Surin of Thailand, Metro Diner and Chicken Salad Chick.

"Westbury Square has a strong tenant roster with impressive tenure and is well-positioned in a submarket with limited vacancy, making it an attractive investment for us."

The center recently underwent a facelift that included upgrading the storefronts, the main sign at the entrance and the parking lot.

In September 2024, CBRE Capital Markets arranged a $16.5 million loan to refinance the property for Branch Properties, which had owned the center since March 2018. Branch Properties is an Atlanta-based real estate investment firm focused on shopping centers in the Southeast.

Westbury Square was at the epicenter of the November 1989 tornado that left 21 people dead and injured nearly 500 others. The F-4 tornado flattened the shopping center, leaving every business in rubble as it stormed up Airport Road and over into Jones Valley. w

LSINC Partners with Roland DG to Expand Global Distribution of Industrial Printers

LSINC Corporation has entered into a global distribution partnership with Roland DG Corporation, a provider of digital printing solutions. Under the agreement, Roland DG will distribute LSINC’s Peri-series industrial direct-to-object printers worldwide, building on a prior regional partnership

and leveraging Roland DG’s existing sales and service network.

Alicia Ryan, CEO of LSINC, said, “At LSINC, we are focused on redefining what is possible in direct-to-object printing. Partnering with Roland DG, first in Latin America, and now on a global scale, allows us to bring our industrial solutions to more customers around the world. Roland DG’s reputation, reach, and commitment to customer success make them the ideal partner as we continue to expand our technology footprint.”

Building upon the strong foundation laid in Latin America, Roland DG will now offer LSINC’s PeriQ360™, Perivallo360m®, and PeriOne™ printers to a global customer base. LSINC printers will be available for demonstration at Roland Demo Centers in Irvine, California; Mexico City, Mexico; Barcelona, Spain; and Hamamatsu, Japan. The printers are designed for use in packaging, beverage, cosmetics, and industrial decoration applications.

“LSINC’s industrial printing systems are an important extension of our technology portfolio,” says Andrew Oransky, Chief Strategy Officer of Roland DG. “These high-volume, precision-engineered platforms complement Roland DG’s UV lineup and enable our customers to scale their customization and production capabilities in meaningful new ways.”

The LSINC systems are designed and manufactured here in Huntsville and print 360-degree designs directly onto objects made of glass, metal, plastics, wood, and other materials.

The PeriQ360™, the main production model, is built for high-volume environments, while other models are suited for complex shapes or entry-level direct-to-object printing. w

Thousands of Toys Donated Through Bank Independent’s Annual Toy Share Drive

Bank Independent’s annual Toy Share Drive collected 2,924 toys and raised $2,763.99 in cash during the

2025 campaign, with donations distributed to children in need across North Alabama through partner organizations.

Toy Share is the final of four annual Share Drives organized by Bank Independent and administered through the Helping Hands Foundation as part of the bank’s community outreach efforts.

“Toy Share is a powerful reminder of what can happen when a community comes together with a shared purpose,” said Macke Mauldin, CEO of Bank Independent. “Every toy and every dollar donated represents hope, joy, and care for local children. We are incredibly thankful for the generosity shown by our customers, team members, and partners throughout the 2025 holiday season.”

Since Toy Share began in 2011, the drive has generated tens of thousands of donated items and more than $50,000 in monetary contributions, creating a total economic impact that has surpassed $1 million in the communities Bank Independent serves. w

Drake State Community and Technical College Earns NIMS Accreditation

Drake State Community and Technical College has earned accreditation from the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS), a nationally recognized organization. The 2025 accreditation positions the college to meet growing demand for skilled manufacturing workers in 2026 and beyond, affirming its commitment to excellence in advanced manufacturing and workforce training.

NIMS accreditation recognizes institutions that meet rigorous national standards for quality instruction, industry-aligned curriculum, equipment, safety, and assessment in manufacturing education. Achieving this designation places Drake State among an elite group of training providers whose programs are validated by manufacturing employers across the country.

“This accreditation is a significant milestone for Drake State and reflects our ongoing mission to prepare students for high-demand, high-skill careers,” said

Dr. Carolyn Henderson, Dean of Instruction. “NIMS accreditation confirms that our manufacturing programs align with industry expectations and that our graduates are workforce-ready on day one.”

Founded by industry leaders, NIMS establishes nationally recognized standards and credentials for machining, metalworking, and advanced manufacturing occupations. NIMS credentials are widely used by employers to evaluate skills and competence, providing assurance that training programs reflect real-world manufacturing needs.

“Earning NIMS accreditation confirms that our workshop and curriculum is up to the National Standard that NIMS stands for,” said Calvin Rosseau, Machine Tool Technology Instructor at Drake State. “This confirms that our students earn the credentials they need to be successful in the machining trade.” w

Momentum Announces Huntsville’s Second Upward Class

Momentum, Alabama’s premier leadership organization dedicated to advancing women leaders in the state, has announced the cohort for its second Upward leadership class in Huntsville. The class brings together women from a wide range of industries across the Huntsville area.

“We are excited to launch the second Upward class in Huntsville and continue supporting the remarkable talent and ambition of women leaders in North Alabama,” said Amy Gandy, Momentum’s Director of Programs for North Alabama. “In today’s evolving landscape, investing locally in leadership development is more crucial than ever.”

Momentum’s Upward program is designed for early to mid-career women who are critical to the leadership pipeline but feel overworked, overlooked, or both, at this stage in their careers. The new class will begin with orientation in February 2026, followed by a nine-month program focused on professional and personal development.

Members of Huntsville’s Upward

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Class 2 include:

• Carly Alcala, COLSA Corporation

• Ale Alfonso, Huntsville Hospital Foundation

• Erika Badwin, Alabama A&M University

• Amberly Barnette, Radiance Technologies

• Molly Bell, COPT Defense Properties

• Lashondria Beverly, Oakworth Capital Bank

• Schyler Burney, Bradley Arant Boult Cummings LLP

• Shelby Campbell-Kaman, Radiance Technologies

• Katie Crawford, Heart of Huntsville Capstone Realty

• Beth Johnson, Warren Averett

• Jacki Gil, Jacki Gil Design

• Claire Green, HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology

• Shanelle Hamm Giraud, Internal Revenue Service

• Ashley Benson, Element Health, Inc.

• Abby Kerr, Huntsville Hospital

• Morgan McBride, Georgia Tech Research Institute

• Mary Kate Moore, ServisFirst Bank

• Beth Morell, Leidos

• Blair Northcutt, Intuitive Research and Technology Corporation

• Megan Owens, Alpha Foundation

• Emily Potts, Colliers International

• Olivia Purdy, Fantasy Playhouse Children’s Theater & Academy

• Lauren Reeves, Huntsville Hospital

• Kaitlynn Roark, Libertas Technologies

• Izzy Thelen, Waggoner

• Sarah Zupko, Huntsville Business Journal

“The Upward program goes beyond traditional training by deeply exploring personal experiences, values, and strengths to create alignment with career goals,” said April Benetollo, CEO of Momentum. “This focused investment supercharges the talent pool for women in management and enhances

retention of our most capable professional women.” w

Applications Open for 2026 Singing River Trail Launch Tank

The Singing River Trail Launch Tank competition will mark its fifth year in 2026. Launch Regional Partnership, in collaboration with Singing River Trail, is accepting applications for the 2026 Singing River Trail Launch Tank.

Established in 2022, the Singing River Trail Launch Tank is a pitch-style competition for entrepreneurs in North Alabama. The event provides founders an opportunity to present business ideas to a panel of judges and compete for up to $25,000 in cash and prizes.

“Reaching our fifth anniversary is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when you invest consistently in entrepreneurs and believe in the potential of this region,” said Jim Page, Interim Executive Director of Launch Regional Partnership. “Alabama is an incredible place to start and grow a business, and this competition proves that year after year. This milestone reflects our commitment to entrepreneurs, but we’re not stopping here. Launch Regional Partnership has big plans to build on this momentum and continue supporting innovators across North Alabama for many years to come.”

Finalists will present their pitches at Singin’ River Live in Florence, Alabama on April 21, 2026. The selected entrepreneurs will not only compete for non-dilutive funding, but will also receive tailored connections to regional programs, mentors, and resources designed to support their long-term growth.

“This fifth year feels especially meaningful,” said Misti Potter, Executive Director of Singing River Trail. “Singing River Trail Launch Tank has become a celebration of collaboration, creativity, and regional pride. Hosting

the event in Florence this year underscores how this competition continues to grow and evolve. It’s a testament to what North Alabama can accomplish when communities come together.”

Applications are open to residents or individuals who work in Colbert, DeKalb, Jackson, Lauderdale, Lawrence, Limestone, Madison, Marshall, or Morgan counties.

Singing River Trail Launch Tank 2026 Key Dates:

• January 12 - Applications Open

• February 1 - Event Registration

Opens (Only 200 spots available)

• March 22 - Applications Close

• April 7 - Finalists Announced

• April 21 – Singing River Trail Launch Tank Event at Singin’ River Live (Florence, AL)

Winners will be announced live at the event. To apply or reserve a seat to attend, visit launchtnvalley.org. w

UAH

Celebrates Origins with New Historical Marker at Campus No. 805, Site of First Classes in 1950

Dreamers looking to the stars fueled the beginnings of The University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH) more than 75 years ago. A new historical marker at Campus No. 805, site of the first classes on Jan. 6, 1950, commemorates the original 137 students and honors UAH’s development and dedication to that research-focused vision.

UAH President Dr. Charles Karr recalled those students on Dec. 16, 2025, when UAH representatives and supporters gathered to unveil the marker and celebrate the university’s history, milestones and plans for the future. He thanked Barbara Wadsworth, a proud UAH supporter, for her “vision and generosity” in donating the marker as well as the UAH Foundation Board for helping to make the event possible.

“We started as a research entity, an extension center of The University of

Alabama (UA),” Karr said. “In 1969, we became our own university.”

Now UAH, a part of the UA System, is one of America’s premier doctoral-granting, research-intensive universities and home to 17 research centers. It’s come a long way since November 1949 when, as the marker notes, UA approved the creation of the University of Alabama-Huntsville Center.

“Today UAH has almost 9,000 students,” Karr said. “But we’ve held true to that mission of research. Last year our faculty and staff conducted about $160 million in externally funded research. This research helps us produce outstanding graduates who provide the workforce for people here in Huntsville.”

UAH continues growing toward even greater goals. Karr pointed out new and ongoing building and renovation projects that will move the university forward in 2026 and beyond:

• Completing the Raymond B. Jones Engineering Building, expected this summer.

• Renovating the Bevill Center for

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the new Center for Cybersecurity Research, Education & Advanced Training.

• Building UAH’s first Track and Field Complex.

• Redeveloping the former Executive Plaza site into Exploration Plaza with residence, office and research buildings in the first phase.

Wadsworth has long been a cheerleader for UAH and its vital role in Huntsville’s history.

“I couldn’t understand why there wasn’t already a marker in place,” she said. “This is an important historic development for the city and its progress.”

Wadsworth said she’s considered UAH a community “brain trust” for as long as she’s called Huntsville home. She and her late husband, E.J. “Butch” Wadsworth, moved to town when he joined Boeing as a defense contractor. She worked as a retail store manager and training store manager with the furniture company This End Up for 19 years. After that store closed, she worked for the Bombay Company.

She remembers unusual questions from customers employed in engineer-

ing and scientific fields.

“They might ask what type of polymers were in the chairs. We sold bunk beds, and there was a man who wanted to know what the tensile strength of the wood was per board foot. I told him, ‘I haven’t calculated that lately, but let me get back to you.’ I’d call corporate headquarters, and they’d say, ‘What? Is he a rocket scientist?’ And I’d say, ‘Yeah, he is.’

“It’s a little bit different when you’re selling in Huntsville, but that’s part of the spirit, the atmosphere of Huntsville and of UAH. Details like that are what I like to share with people because it gives them an idea of the whole picture.”

The faculty and staff of UAH’s M. Louis Salmon Library are dedicated to keeping track of the university’s historic details. Library Director David Moore recognized those who worked on the marker project and added his thanks for Wadsworth’s gift.

“I want to recognize one of our grad students, Kyle Curtis. He wrote the lettering for the marker and did some research on that using our ar-

chives. I also want to give a shout out to Reagan Grimsley, head of Special Collections and Archives, and Drew Adan, university archivist, for their work on this project to get it going.

“Most of all, thank you, Barbara, for your idea and your initiatives moving this forward. We are all here as great champions of UAH, and I think this recognizes the work that we are doing and will continue to do. There are great days ahead for the university. Thank you for your support.” w

Joseph Ronderos Promoted to Member at Stites & Harbison, PLLC

Stites & Harbison, PLLC has announced that Joseph Ronderos is among eight attorneys promoted to Member (Partner). Ronderos is a litigator in the firm’s Business Litigation ServiceGroup, where his practice focuses on financial services, creditors’ rights, commercial disputes, and product liability. He has represented clients in complex litigation and appeals before state and federal courts, including the Sixth and Eleventh Circuit Courts of Appeals. His experience includes defending mortgage servicers under the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (RESPA), handling claims under the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA), the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), and the Truth in Lending Act (TILA), and addressing foreclosure-related matters. Ronderos also advises clients on structured settlement transfers, real property title issues, and estate planning.

John Hearne Joins First Horizon’s Huntsville Private Banking Team

First Horizon Bank has announced that John Hearne has joined the bank as Senior Vice President, Senior Private Client Relationship Manager. He will be based in the Madison office and serve the greater Huntsville area.

Hearne has an extensive background in lending, private banking and wealth management, with 20 years of financial experience at Wells Fargo, Merrill Lynch, Raymond James and, most recently, Pivot Capital Partners, where he helped create and oversee the asset management division.

“John brings trusted expertise and a proven track record serving complex client needs. His leadership will help our associates deliver tailored solutions and exceptional service to Huntsville’s private banking clients,” said Ginger Harper, Private Banking Group Manager for First Horizon Bank.

Angel Stinson Named Market Executive and Senior Vice President at FirstBank

FirstBank has appointed Angel Stinson as Market Executive and Senior Vice President, strengthening its leadership team in Huntsville. In her new role, Stinson will lead the bank’s Commercial Banking team, driving strategy and collaboration to support growth and expand services across the local market.

“Angel’s decades of banking experience paired with her deep commitment to the Huntsville community make her the ideal leader to grow FirstBank’s commercial banking services locally,” said Grant Lauderdale, Head of Metro Banking. “Her established track record of success and passion for serving others will be a tremendous asset to our team and the clients we serve.”

Stinson brings more than 35 years of financial industry experience and most recently served as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer/Chief Credit Officer at ServisFirst Bank. A North Alabama native who has lived in Huntsville for 23 years, she serves on the boards of Leadership Greater Huntsville and Habitat for Humanity and supports organizations including the American Heart Association and Women in Defense.

Teresa Turner promoted to Senior Vice President –Financial Advisor Program Manager at Bank Independent

Bank Independent has announced the promotion of Teresa Turner to Senior Vice President – Financial Advisor Program Manager.

Turner joined Bank Independent in January 2020 as a Financial Advisor and Program Manager, playing a key role in launching Independent Investments Group (IIG) through the bank’s partnership with Ameriprise. Since that time, she has been instrumental in the growth and success of the program and is a trusted advisor to clients across the region.

Turner began her career in financial services in 1985 as an accountant with a local bank and became a licensed financial advisor in 1996. With more than 30 years of industry experience, she has consistently ranked in the top ten percent of her field and has earned numerous Top Producer Awards. Most recently, Ameriprise recognized her as one of the Top Women Financial Advisors in the banking channel for two consecutive years.

Selena Suggs Promoted to Senior Vice President – Customer Experience at Bank Independent

Bank Independent has announced the promotion of Selena Suggs to Senior Vice President – Customer Experience.

Suggs is a graduate of the University of North Alabama, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Education. She joined Bank Independent in November 2000 as a part-time teller at the Pine Street Sales Office, launching a 25-year career marked by steady growth and expanding leadership responsibility.

Throughout her tenure, Suggs has developed broad expertise across the bank’s products and services, gaining both operational and project-based experience. Her holistic understanding of how initiatives impact team members, customers, and the overall organization has been instrumental in strengthening the bank’s customer-focused approach.

“Selena has a unique ability to see the full picture—from our internal processes to the customer’s perspective—and turn that insight into meaningful improvements,” said Penny Camp, Chief Administrative Officer. “Her leadership has elevated how we think about customer experience, and this promotion reflects the tremendous value she brings to our bank and our customers.”