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National

Axios C-Suite: What Jim learned for the week of May 16

Business

Axios C-Suite: Your agent prep kit

Axios C-Suite: Why the token is your future cost-driver

Axios C-Suite: A look at Jim VandeHei's media diet

Axios C-Suite: Why Kareem Rahma is an influencer you should know

Supreme Court paves way for Alabama to remove blue district

The move is likely to flip one seat in the House of Representatives from blue to red.

Politics & Policy

The U.S. Supreme Court has paved the way for Alabama to change congressional maps for this year&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="midterm elections" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/2026-midterm-elections" data-vars-content-id="7b5a37f6-c0e4-4a60-8365-4e338ce72a88" data-vars-headline="Supreme Court paves way for Alabama to remove blue district" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/2026-midterm-elections" target="_self">midterm elections</a>.Why it matters: The move is likely to flip one seat in the House of Representatives from blue to red, and may lead to a full <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="redistricting" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/09/2026-midterms-redistricting-trump-virginia" data-vars-content-id="7b5a37f6-c0e4-4a60-8365-4e338ce72a88" data-vars-headline="Supreme Court paves way for Alabama to remove blue district" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/09/2026-midterms-redistricting-trump-virginia" target="_self">redistricting</a> effort that could flip two seats.

Music offices unite to amplify local music economies

Music offices are banding together to create a shared resource for communities looking to amplify their local music scenes.

Music offices are banding together in a new trade organization to champion resources and best practices for local music scenes. Why it matters: The association is formalizing its network to export the success music offices have seen in places like <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Huntsville" data-vars-click-url="https://huntsvillemusic.com/" data-vars-content-id="f23fce82-2f39-41b1-aef7-2d172d0821ad" data-vars-headline="Music offices unite to amplify local music economies" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://huntsvillemusic.com/" target="_blank">Huntsville</a>, where investment in the local music ecosystem has made big <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="quality-of-life" data-vars-click-url="https://www.huntsvilleal.gov/huntsville-music-office-celebrates-landmark-year-for-citys-creative-economy/" data-vars-content-id="f23fce82-2f39-41b1-aef7-2d172d0821ad" data-vars-headline="Music offices unite to amplify local music economies" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.huntsvilleal.gov/huntsville-music-office-celebrates-landmark-year-for-citys-creative-economy/" target="_blank">quality-of-life</a> and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="economic impacts" data-vars-click-url="https://huntsvillebusinessjournal.com/news/2025/11/14/von-braun-center-unveils-15-3-million-backstage-transformation-to-boost-huntsvilles-growing-arts-economy/" data-vars-content-id="f23fce82-2f39-41b1-aef7-2d172d0821ad" data-vars-headline="Music offices unite to amplify local music economies" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://huntsvillebusinessjournal.com/news/2025/11/14/von-braun-center-unveils-15-3-million-backstage-transformation-to-boost-huntsvilles-growing-arts-economy/" target="_blank">economic impacts</a>.

SCOTUS rulings reshape Alabama primary elections

The May 19 primary elections will go forward as planned, Alabama Secretary of State Wes Allen confirmed Tuesday.

News

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Recent rulings" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/30/voting-rights-act-supreme-court-race" data-vars-content-id="f30d022f-cbf6-467c-aabe-edbb756d12d7" data-vars-headline="SCOTUS rulings reshape Alabama primary elections" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/30/voting-rights-act-supreme-court-race" target="_self">Recent rulings</a> by the U.S. Supreme Court are <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="reshaping" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/huntsville/2026/05/11/supreme-court-alabama-congressional-map-redraw-granted-midterms" data-vars-content-id="f30d022f-cbf6-467c-aabe-edbb756d12d7" data-vars-headline="SCOTUS rulings reshape Alabama primary elections" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/huntsville/2026/05/11/supreme-court-alabama-congressional-map-redraw-granted-midterms" target="_self">reshaping</a> primary elections in Alabama less than a week before voters head to the polls.Why it matters: The court&#x27;s decision Monday to lift an order that blocked Alabama from using its 2023 congressional maps could lead to at least one district <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="flipping from blue to red" data-vars-click-url="https://apnews.com/article/alabama-redistricting-supreme-court-congress-ba371351585b79c2965f9efb0332f33d" data-vars-content-id="f30d022f-cbf6-467c-aabe-edbb756d12d7" data-vars-headline="SCOTUS rulings reshape Alabama primary elections" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://apnews.com/article/alabama-redistricting-supreme-court-congress-ba371351585b79c2965f9efb0332f33d" target="_blank">flipping from blue to red</a> come November.

TVA says reservoirs are ready for summer despite drought

Drought or not, reservoirs are at full summer pool levels.

The Tennessee Valley Authority says reservoirs are at full summer pool levels despite an <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="ongoing drought" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/huntsville/2026/05/01/drought-persists" data-vars-content-id="8e55122c-06b4-494e-a548-8421fb7a8fda" data-vars-headline="TVA says reservoirs are ready for summer despite drought" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/huntsville/2026/05/01/drought-persists" target="_self">ongoing drought</a>.Why it matters: Memorial Day weekend kicks off the summer season, and in North Alabama that means getting out on the Tennessee River.<ul><li>Recreation across the watershed generates nearly <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="$12 billion annually" data-vars-click-url="https://www.tva.com/the-powerhouse/stories/Valley-Lakes-Worth-Billions" data-vars-content-id="8e55122c-06b4-494e-a548-8421fb7a8fda" data-vars-headline="TVA says reservoirs are ready for summer despite drought" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.tva.com/the-powerhouse/stories/Valley-Lakes-Worth-Billions" target="_blank">$12 billion annually</a> — about $1 million per shoreline mile.</li></ul>

Sofia's targets Jan. 24 opening in South Huntsville

The restaurant is bringing authentic Mexican and Spanish-inspired flavors handed down from the Villarreal family's roots.

Business Brief

Sofia&#x27;s Roadside Cantina opens its doors Jan. 24. Why it matters: Sofia&#x27;s is bringing its flavor to the rapidly growing <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Hays Farm area" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/huntsville/2025/12/05/hays-farm-park-gives-south-huntsville-a-gathering-place" data-vars-content-id="0b7e6552-e4fd-4ae4-9013-73b6b68e88e9" data-vars-headline="Sofia&#x27;s targets Jan. 24 opening in South Huntsville" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/huntsville/2025/12/05/hays-farm-park-gives-south-huntsville-a-gathering-place" target="_self">Hays Farm area</a> in South Huntsville, aiming to build an inclusive, community-focused restaurant.

Two Huntsville restaurants land on inaugural Michelin guide

Huntsville's dining scene takes a leap forward as two local restaurants join the inaugural Michelin Guide to the American South.

Food and Drink

Purveyor and Salt Smokehouse are restaurants you&#x27;ve got to visit in Huntsville, per the inaugural <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Michelin Guide to the American South" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2025/10/31/michelin-guide-american-south-how-to-watch" data-vars-content-id="701a2e63-9ee6-4ae2-9dae-2945262278f7" data-vars-headline="Two Huntsville restaurants land on inaugural Michelin guide" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2025/10/31/michelin-guide-american-south-how-to-watch" target="_self">Michelin Guide to the American South</a> in an <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="earlier-than-expected announcement" data-vars-click-url="https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2025/11/03/3179448/0/en/A-Taste-of-Excellence-MICHELIN-Guide-Announces-Inaugural-American-South-Selection.html#" data-vars-content-id="701a2e63-9ee6-4ae2-9dae-2945262278f7" data-vars-headline="Two Huntsville restaurants land on inaugural Michelin guide" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2025/11/03/3179448/0/en/A-Taste-of-Excellence-MICHELIN-Guide-Announces-Inaugural-American-South-Selection.html#" target="_blank">earlier-than-expected announcement</a> Monday. Why it matters: The Michelin Guide is the gold standard for culinary recognition, and Huntsville&#x27;s first appearance shows the city&#x27;s dining scene is maturing into a destination.

Legislature readies for SCOTUS redistricting decision

The high court is expected to decide whether to lift an injunction preventing Alabama from using a previously struck-down congressional map.

Politics

Alabama lawmakers are preparing for a possible Supreme Court decision to lift a federal injunction blocking the state from using <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="congressional maps" data-vars-click-url="https://www.scotusblog.com/2023/09/court-denies-alabamas-request-to-use-voting-map-with-only-one-majority-black-district/" data-vars-content-id="48f7c5a2-5c4f-4c98-a31b-f0430d8bbeaf" data-vars-headline="Legislature readies for SCOTUS redistricting decision" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.scotusblog.com/2023/09/court-denies-alabamas-request-to-use-voting-map-with-only-one-majority-black-district/" target="_blank">congressional maps</a> that were found to violate the Voting Rights Act. Why it matters: The decision could have big impacts on elections this year, potentially turning two Alabama congressional districts from blue to red.

Supreme Court decision puts Alabama maps back in play

Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall filed three emergency motions last week, the day after the Lousiana v. Callais Supreme Court decision.

Alabama moved quickly to capitalize on last week&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Supreme Court decision" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/29/supreme-court-redistricting-race-gerrymander" data-vars-content-id="7989d553-a8b4-4274-a6e5-b3fb614d1854" data-vars-headline="Supreme Court decision puts Alabama maps back in play" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/29/supreme-court-redistricting-race-gerrymander" target="_self">Supreme Court decision</a> on how the Voting Rights Act applies to redistricting.Why it matters: The move could throw Alabama&#x27;s congressional districts into limbo with primary elections approaching May 19. <ul><li>The decision also could impact cases brought against Madison County, and at the state Senate level.</li></ul>

$50M Lewter District project takes shape downtown

The project includes the repurposing of the Lewter Hardware building and the construction of a five-story office building and 14 luxury townhomes.

Developers are preparing to cut the ribbon on the 1.5-acre Lewter District in Huntsville.Why it matters: An effort that began with repurposing the historic Lewter Hardware building is now aiming to establish a mixed-use area downtown.

Front Row opens leasing, targets June move-ins

The sprawling mixed-use development has launched its official website.

The Residences at Front Row is getting ready to sign its first leases for a targeted June move-in date. Why it matters: The sprawling mixed-use development under construction across from the Von Braun Center has been years in the making and is expected to help transform that &quot;gateway&quot; into downtown.

Army pushes "factory to front line" focus at AUSA Global Force

One of the defense industry's biggest events of the year is taking over the Von Braun Center this week.

Aerospace

For the U.S. Army to solve critical global problems at scale, &quot;an unbreakable connection must exist from the factory to the front line,&quot; Army Under Secretary Michael Obadal told a packed house Tuesday. Why it matters: To help accomplish that, AUSA&#x27;s Global Force Symposium, one of the defense industry&#x27;s biggest events of the year, is taking over the Von Braun Center this week.

Northrop's ready to hit the gas on IBCS

IBCS is being further refined to focus on modularity and scalability.

Northrop Grumman is ready to ramp up production of its Huntsville-built Integrated Battle Command System. Why it matters: As IBCS gains traction and demand grows, Northrop is focused on scaling production and adapting the system for modular use on smaller platforms.

Space Command moves into first Redstone building

The command's intelligence arm is up and running at Redstone Arsenal.

U.S. Space Command cut the ribbon Wednesday on the first brick-and-mortar component of its new headquarters in Huntsville. Why it matters: The ceremony marks a milestone for Space Command&#x27;s move: an established headquarters for its intelligence operations.

Huntsville biotech boom draws national security focus

The National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology and other agencies took a close look at HudsonAlpha on the 20th stop of NSCEB's national roadshow.

Environment

Huntsville is big on defense in more ways than aerospace.Why it matters: The workforce and research engine created by <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology" data-vars-click-url="https://www.hudsonalpha.org/" data-vars-content-id="bb8dd234-fd0e-4260-bc13-4734ba48f275" data-vars-headline="Huntsville biotech boom draws national security focus" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.hudsonalpha.org/" target="_blank">HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology</a> doesn&#x27;t only drive economic development such as <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Eli Lilly&#x27;s new plant" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/huntsville/2025/12/10/eli-lilly-alabama-6-billion-huntsville-plant-drug-manufacturing" data-vars-content-id="bb8dd234-fd0e-4260-bc13-4734ba48f275" data-vars-headline="Huntsville biotech boom draws national security focus" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/huntsville/2025/12/10/eli-lilly-alabama-6-billion-huntsville-plant-drug-manufacturing" target="_self">Eli Lilly&#x27;s new plant</a>, it&#x27;s key to national security.

Huntsville dives in for big 250th celebration

The celebration peaks on July 4 in Big Spring Park.

America&#x27;s got a big birthday coming up. Why it matters: Huntsville&#x27;s going all out for the occasion, with events lined up over the next couple of months, culminating in a major July 4 celebration at Big Spring Park.

Inside JST's green plans for Guntersville

The 540,000-square-foot facility is set to be completed in early 2029, on 240 acres at Guntersville's Conners Island Business Park.

Development

A Japanese manufacturer is doubling down on its operations in Guntersville. Why it matters: Electronic connector manufacturer JST Corp. is investing $500 million to construct a next-generation advanced manufacturing facility.

SEC Softball Tournament lands at Toyota Field

Next year's SEC Tournament is set for May 11-15.

The Southeastern Conference Softball Tournament has a new home: Toyota Field. Why it matters: The tournament will fill area hotels, restaurants and stores, and its national broadcast on ESPN will raise the area&#x27;s profile, helping North Alabama land the next big event.

Greenways lead to growth in Huntsville

A long-term plan aims to put every resident within a mile of a trail as the network rapidly grows.

Huntsville is big on <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="greenways" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/huntsville/2025/08/12/land-trust-nature-center-greenway-outdoor-recreation-huntsville" data-vars-content-id="e3ad1b08-65e8-4ae9-94d6-5f1f1ab8cabf" data-vars-headline="Greenways lead to growth in Huntsville" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/huntsville/2025/08/12/land-trust-nature-center-greenway-outdoor-recreation-huntsville" target="_self">greenways</a>. Why it matters: City leaders see the pedestrian trails as quality-of-life infrastructure that&#x27;s key in drawing in new industry, residents and investment.

Huntsville's role in the future of Artemis

Artemis II is only the introduction for what NASA has planned in the next few years.

The world is still coming down from the highs of the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Artemis II" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/2026/04/11/nasa-artemis-crew-land-san-diego-navy-recovery-mission" data-vars-content-id="3dd50350-446a-493f-8866-1ab91742d8bc" data-vars-headline="Huntsville&#x27;s role in the future of Artemis" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/2026/04/11/nasa-artemis-crew-land-san-diego-navy-recovery-mission" target="_self">Artemis II</a> mission, but NASA is already full steam ahead on Artemis III. Why it matters: Artemis II tested hardware and rehearsed operations in <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="deep space" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/huntsville/2026/04/01/artemis-nasa-space-moon-huntsville" data-vars-content-id="3dd50350-446a-493f-8866-1ab91742d8bc" data-vars-headline="Huntsville&#x27;s role in the future of Artemis" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/huntsville/2026/04/01/artemis-nasa-space-moon-huntsville" target="_self">deep space</a>, and Artemis III will take the next step toward NASA&#x27;s goal of landing on the Moon in 2028, constructing a Moon base and ultimately launching toward Mars.

President's budget brings back NASA science cuts

The President's Budget Request for fiscal year 2027 calls for $18.8 billion in NASA spending, a $5.6 billion cut.

NASA is looking at another potential funding hit.Why it matters: Cuts to NASA science initiatives could have a big impact locally because North Alabama is <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="one of the largest recipients" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/huntsville/2025/06/23/nasa-science-funding-huntsville-alabama-congress-budget" data-vars-content-id="eeafa5de-5ab4-4de5-9c45-eac8ee240ecd" data-vars-headline="President&#x27;s budget brings back NASA science cuts" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/huntsville/2025/06/23/nasa-science-funding-huntsville-alabama-congress-budget" target="_self">one of the largest recipients</a> of annual NASA funding awards.

What Artemis means as NASA returns to deep space

Artemis II is the first step toward NASA's new lunar focus, and a return to its original ambitions.

It&#x27;s launch day. Why it matters: Artemis II returns to NASA&#x27;s original deep-space ambitions as the agency moves toward <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="a sustained presence" data-vars-click-url="https://www.nasa.gov/news-release/nasa-unveils-initiatives-to-achieve-americas-national-space-policy/" data-vars-content-id="93af2892-59a4-4b0c-8001-97d3496c511c" data-vars-headline="What Artemis means as NASA returns to deep space" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.nasa.gov/news-release/nasa-unveils-initiatives-to-achieve-americas-national-space-policy/" target="_blank">a sustained presence</a> on and around the Moon.

Huntsville already in SPACECOM mix as relocation moves ahead

Lt. Gen. Richard Zellmann, SPACECOM deputy director, said the plan is to have half its personnel at Redstone by 2028.

U.S. Space Command is already up and running on Redstone Arsenal. Why it matters: As its <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="relocation advances" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/huntsville/2026/02/17/britt-huntsville-space-command-dhs-ice" data-vars-content-id="44de49d1-96d0-44ab-9923-fc8f3e071435" data-vars-headline="Huntsville already in SPACECOM mix as relocation moves ahead" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/huntsville/2026/02/17/britt-huntsville-space-command-dhs-ice" target="_self">relocation advances</a>, a top SPACECOM official addressed a crowd in Huntsville to lay out its mission and how it can collaborate locally to achieve it.

ISS Crew-11 astronauts bring the view from orbit to Marshall

NASA's SpaceX Crew-11 astronauts stopped in Huntsville to meet the people they coordinated with in space.

Astronauts from the International Space Station stopped in Huntsville Wednesday to talk with folks they communicated with over five months in space. Why it matters: ISS astronauts work in close concert with folks on the ground at Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville as they conduct scientific experiments in orbit.

AeroVironment touts $5-per-shot anti-drone laser in Huntsville

The Locust X3 can down a drone at under $5 per shot, the company says.

AeroVironment&#x27;s Locust X3 laser system can down a drone at less than $5 per shot from a virtually unlimited magazine. Why it matters: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Inexpensive drones are changing" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/15/iran-drones-ukraine-russia-shahed" data-vars-content-id="00172514-42b5-42b0-ae27-3d7d20e50462" data-vars-headline="AeroVironment touts $5-per-shot anti-drone laser in Huntsville" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/15/iran-drones-ukraine-russia-shahed" target="_self">Inexpensive drones are changing</a> warfare, and shooting them down with <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="$2 million missiles" data-vars-click-url="https://www.war.gov/News/News-Stories/Article/Article/4150954/socom-changing-operational-demands-require-acquisition-changes/" data-vars-content-id="00172514-42b5-42b0-ae27-3d7d20e50462" data-vars-headline="AeroVironment touts $5-per-shot anti-drone laser in Huntsville" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.war.gov/News/News-Stories/Article/Article/4150954/socom-changing-operational-demands-require-acquisition-changes/" target="_blank">$2 million missiles</a> is unsustainable.

🎨 Panoply 2026: Major music, artists and a few firsts

This year's Panoply Arts Festival in Huntsville has big headliners, tons of artists and some new additions.

Panoply Arts Festival takes over Big Spring Park this weekend, and it&#x27;s going to include some firsts for Arts Huntsville&#x27;s marquee annual event.Why it matters: The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="44th year of the festival" data-vars-click-url="https://www.artshuntsville.org/the-history-of-panoply-arts-festival/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" data-vars-content-id="76378905-4df4-453f-81a1-c99b2f5e89ef" data-vars-headline="🎨 Panoply 2026: Major music, artists and a few firsts" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.artshuntsville.org/the-history-of-panoply-arts-festival/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank">44th year of the festival</a> is expected to be something special, particularly on the music front.<ul><li>&quot;The Voice&quot; star <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Jazz McKenzie" data-vars-click-url="https://www.instagram.com/itsjustjazzmusic/" data-vars-content-id="76378905-4df4-453f-81a1-c99b2f5e89ef" data-vars-headline="🎨 Panoply 2026: Major music, artists and a few firsts" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.instagram.com/itsjustjazzmusic/" target="_blank">Jazz McKenzie</a> is headlining Friday, and the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Otis Walker Band" data-vars-click-url="https://otiswalkerband.com/?fbclid=IwY2xjawKPHe5leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETF2amo1VFJVR1F5ZnJFZU84AR7kZXltyPHyWclvMwJzrV_qOe0Nup0pbVjgKKEHJ-IF2Km3NH59POgaaooTzA_aem_wn_qJ8O2Gega_oXL47b85g" data-vars-content-id="76378905-4df4-453f-81a1-c99b2f5e89ef" data-vars-headline="🎨 Panoply 2026: Major music, artists and a few firsts" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://otiswalkerband.com/?fbclid=IwY2xjawKPHe5leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETF2amo1VFJVR1F5ZnJFZU84AR7kZXltyPHyWclvMwJzrV_qOe0Nup0pbVjgKKEHJ-IF2Km3NH59POgaaooTzA_aem_wn_qJ8O2Gega_oXL47b85g" target="_blank">Otis Walker Band</a> will perform a tribute to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Microwave Dave Gallaher" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/huntsville/2026/02/10/huntsville-remembers-microwave-dave-gallaher" data-vars-content-id="76378905-4df4-453f-81a1-c99b2f5e89ef" data-vars-headline="🎨 Panoply 2026: Major music, artists and a few firsts" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/huntsville/2026/02/10/huntsville-remembers-microwave-dave-gallaher" target="_self">Microwave Dave Gallaher</a> for Saturday&#x27;s headlining performance.</li></ul>

Guntersville's small-stage, big ticket concert series

Alongside the music, artists performing in the series tell stories about the songs they're playing, said organizer Scott Smith.

Things to Do

As Huntsville&#x27;s music scene grabs <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="national attention" data-vars-click-url="https://www.fastcompany.com/91269314/economic-development-most-innovative-companies-2025" data-vars-content-id="e4b5c477-0128-4e34-954e-0b990e90afe8" data-vars-headline="Guntersville&#x27;s small-stage, big ticket concert series" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.fastcompany.com/91269314/economic-development-most-innovative-companies-2025" target="_blank">national attention</a>, a new series just down the road, in Guntersville, is pulling big names for listening room shows. <ul><li><a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Shhhhh: A Listening Room Experience" data-vars-click-url="https://www.lakecityconcerts.com/" data-vars-content-id="e4b5c477-0128-4e34-954e-0b990e90afe8" data-vars-headline="Guntersville&#x27;s small-stage, big ticket concert series" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.lakecityconcerts.com/" target="_blank">Shhhhh: A Listening Room Experience</a> is bringing up-close-and-personal shows with big-ticket artists to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Dave&#x27;s Music Hall" data-vars-click-url="https://www.davesmusichall.com/?fbclid=IwY2xjawQ3neFleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFaMHhpUDFQWTBsdzZleVhnc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHlY4ZsY9F4v3PKM0hoxs7T9ll83BrFDe-kuRqYyKNuH5xdDG5UNO7CNN06Dg_aem_jogoHdG5_kX9NkoSNshxjA" data-vars-content-id="e4b5c477-0128-4e34-954e-0b990e90afe8" data-vars-headline="Guntersville&#x27;s small-stage, big ticket concert series" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.davesmusichall.com/?fbclid=IwY2xjawQ3neFleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFaMHhpUDFQWTBsdzZleVhnc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHlY4ZsY9F4v3PKM0hoxs7T9ll83BrFDe-kuRqYyKNuH5xdDG5UNO7CNN06Dg_aem_jogoHdG5_kX9NkoSNshxjA" target="_blank">Dave&#x27;s Music Hall</a>.</li></ul>Why it matters: The series reflects a larger trend of more intimate shows in the region, including Huntsville&#x27;s focus on <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="&quot;house show culture&quot;" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/huntsville/2026/01/05/2026-huntsville-music-orion-concert-venue-alabama" data-vars-content-id="e4b5c477-0128-4e34-954e-0b990e90afe8" data-vars-headline="Guntersville&#x27;s small-stage, big ticket concert series" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/huntsville/2026/01/05/2026-huntsville-music-orion-concert-venue-alabama" target="_self">&quot;house show culture&quot;</a> and giving artists more control over the listening environment.

Barracuda brings tacos, New Orleans vibes to downtown Huntsville

The fast-casual taco stand officially opens March 22.

Barracuda Taco Stand opens Sunday in downtown Huntsville. The big picture: New Orleans-based <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Barracuda" data-vars-click-url="https://www.eatbarracuda.com/" data-vars-content-id="0307b5ff-3669-4870-997b-09c84af57561" data-vars-headline="Barracuda brings tacos, New Orleans vibes to downtown Huntsville" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.eatbarracuda.com/" target="_blank">Barracuda</a> is &quot;a neighborhood taco stand and margarita garden,&quot; with an uber-casual vibe.

Galaxy of Lights, Huntsville's brightest tradition, turns 30

This year's show at the Huntsville Botanical Garden is stepping it up with new interactive features.

Galaxy of Lights opens Friday, and its 30th anniversary edition is set to be one for the history books.Why it matters: The extensive <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="holiday light show" data-vars-click-url="https://hsvbg.org/visit/exhibits/galaxy-of-lights/" data-vars-content-id="a5fab8cf-34a7-4045-b081-d5ef85ac4d7a" data-vars-headline="Galaxy of Lights, Huntsville&#x27;s brightest tradition, turns 30" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://hsvbg.org/visit/exhibits/galaxy-of-lights/" target="_blank">holiday light show</a> is the Huntsville Botanical Garden&#x27;s marquee fundraiser, drawing more than 80,000 visitors annually.

Floriana's MidCity debut comes after years of eyeing Huntsville

Co-owner Jamie Branda said he feels there's space in Huntsville for Floriana's model of traditional fine dining.

Italian restaurant Floriana is opening its third location next year at MidCity. Why it matters: The Washington, D.C., fine dining staple is hoping to elevate Huntsville&#x27;s culinary offerings as the city continues to grow.

Ghost walking into Huntsville's spooky season

Halloween is the last day to "hear stories from Huntsville's haunted past" during the Huntsville Ghost Walk.

<figure><img alt="A tour guide dressed in a Halloween outfit turns and points into the woods during a tour while a small crowd looks on. " height="450" id="5adc87c9-b161-461f-bac7-b8a085f33ea5" src="https://images.axios.com/kbKNw9MJ29C9uqUrtSlk5aqQ1JQ=/2025/10/07/1759841801394.gif" width="800"/><figcaption>The Leroy Pope mansion is a highlight of the Twickenham walk. Image: Derek Lacey/Axios</figcaption></figure>Take a guided walk around Huntsville&#x27;s spooky side if you need some help getting into the Halloween spirit.Why it matters: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Huntsville Ghost Walk" data-vars-click-url="https://www.huntsvilleghostwalk.com/" data-vars-content-id="a8ab144c-2f06-40e1-aa05-5290740dcb93" data-vars-headline="Ghost walking into Huntsville&#x27;s spooky season" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.huntsvilleghostwalk.com/" target="_blank">Huntsville Ghost Walk</a> offers a look at downtown Huntsville that you won&#x27;t experience any other way.

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