Entries by Bud McLaughlin

Monte Sano State Park cuts ribbons to renovations of historic CCC-built cabins

After nearly a century of hosting visitors at Monte Sano State Park, the rustic cabins have undergone a facelift. They’re not the “glamping” style of cabins that is gaining popularity around the country, but they provide modern comforts, offering visitors the perfect mix of heritage and hospitality. “Several of these cabins boast stunning views of […]

Tree City USA: Huntsville celebrates Arbor Day with 35-year commitment to urban forestry

Watercress Capital of the World. The Rocket City.  Hockey Capital of the South. Pentagon of the South. To its growing list of monikers, Huntsville has one that brings its own sense of pride to the community: Tree City USA. For 35 years, the city has had this designation by the Arbor Day Foundation. The honor […]

Report says Huntsville is nation’s No. 1 city in financial resilience

Economic and financial pain is everywhere. “Affordability” has become the latest political buzzword as households are juggling rising costs, high debt, and housing pressures.  Though financial strain feels like a universal experience in this economy, some Americans are feeling the burden more than others.  Fortunately, Huntsville is one of those cities that feels the burden […]

Dr. John Christy retiring from UAH; Dr. Lee Ellenburg named state climatologist

After nearly 40 years, an era of climate expertise is coming to an end at the University of Alabama in Huntsville and the state. Dr. John Christy, distinguished professor of Atmospheric Science and director of UAH’s Earth System Science Center, is retiring from UAH and as the state climatologist in July. He began studying global […]

For second straight year, Drake State takes part in FICO Educational Analytics Challenge

After a successful inaugural year, Drake State Community & Technical College is taking part in a national AI challenge for the second straight year.  Global analytics software creator Fair Isaac Corp. (FICO) announced the continuation of its Educational Analytics Challenge for the spring 2026 semester.  Since its launch three years ago, FICO has partnered with […]

Walking tour puts Huntsville’s Reconstruction history at your fingertips

As we recognize the contributions of Black Huntsvillians to the city’s history and celebrate the 250th anniversary of the nation’s founding, the Historic Huntsville Foundation is offering an opportunity to take a walk through history. “Cornerstones of Freedom: A Walking Tour of Huntsville’s Reconstruction History” brings to life the stories of those whose leadership shaped […]

It’s the little things: HudsonAlpha scientists discuss future of rare disease diagnosis

It was a tiny topic that kicked off a big year for the HudsonAlpha Event Series.  What happens when a tiny, invisible change in DNA alters the course of a life?  For many families, the answer has been locked away for years … until now.  HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology scientists presented “Tiny Genes, Big Effects: […]

Adding green to Maroon & White, Alabama A&M rolls out state’s first EV police fleet

Continuing its drive for sustainability, Alabama A&M has rolled out an EV campus police fleet. With four new electric vehicles, A&M became the first university in the state to operate an all-electric police vehicle fleet. “We’re the first police department in the state to have this type of vehicle supporting a university campus,” said Police […]

Bank Independent brings a financial vibe to MidCity District

When you step into the newest Bank Independent office, you feel a special vibe. Which is fitting since the office is in Huntsville’s vibrant MidCity District. And, the building is different from the company’s other offices which reflect a Williamsburg style. The MidCity office blends elements of Williamsburg with the MidCity vibe – a carryover […]

UNA and Samford will kick off football season at The Joe

It’s officially called Week Zero in the college football season. However, that will be a misnomer, as far as the University of North Alabama, Samford University and the city of Huntsville are concerned. It will be a real week in the schedule when the two schools meet Aug. 29 on Wicks Family Field at Joe […]