YHN Media Group is pleased to report strong growth across its publications in the past year. The company’s flagship outlet, Yellowhammer News, is announcing new developments – including the rollout of a polished brand identity and website, partnerships with Alabama’s top media personalities, a magnitude of audience growth, and a statewide advertising impact that remains unmatched in its space.

Founded in 2011 with the idea, “We Know Alabama,” Yellowhammer News became a leading provider for local and state news, coverage of Alabama politics, businesses large and small, and the stories of those who call our state home.

Today, YHN Media Group and its affiliate outlets are pleased to report strong growth both in the reach of their content and the impact it generates.

“With the daily privilege to offer our audience something they did not know about something they love – Alabama – comes with a responsibility to reach our state with high-quality, dynamic media,” said Ellis Terry, President of YHN Media Group. “Our family of outlets is scaling up its ability to quickly deliver information that matters across our rapidly growing social media channels and platforms.”

Additionally, YHN Radio Network, a statewide collection of 31 local affiliates with an approximate weekly reach of 1 million daily listeners, is now officially called Yellowhammer News Radio. Its new slogan, Signal of the South, fits its reach.

Yellowhammer News Radio will continue to deliver stories, sounds, and content that connect our audience across the state, whether they call Alabama home or are just passing through.

In addition to the polished look of its family of brands, the company is announcing new partnerships and personnel moves that will sustain it into the future.

YHN Media Group has named Grayson Everett as Editor in Chief of Yellowhammer News. For the past two years, Everett has driven the flagship publication’s coverage, first as its capitol reporter and later as the state and political editor. Everett has established a commitment to high-caliber coverage of state government and politics, the individuals who shape Alabama, and the everyday stories that matter most.

Across vital contributions to all outlets within the portfolio, Everett was also named as Vice President of Content for YHN Media Group and its publications.

Austen Shipley will now serve as News Director for Yellowhammer News. Since 2021, Shipley has emerged as a trusted name in the Alabama media landscape. His byline will continue to break news and capture the moment of Alabama politics, businesses, athletics, faith, culture, the outdoors, and more.

Earlier this fall, Yellowhammer News announced a new partnership with Alabama sports media duo Longshore and McKnight. Every weekday, John Longshore and Barry McKnight bring viewers and listeners together to bond over the voices of athletes, coaches, and dedicated fans of Alabama sports.

“We have continued our growth by partnering with one of the best news-gathering agencies in the Southeastern United States,” said John Longshore, co-host of the podcast. “We get a chance to be on their platform, and they get to be on ours. It’s going to be a great symbiotic relationship.”

John Longshore and Barry McKnight, in their roles as co-hosts, combine decades of sports media expertise with dedication to Alabama.

This summer, we also announced the launch of Lake Martin Life – Alabama’s new go-to destination for everything happening around the beautiful Lake Martin community. Whether you’re a long-time resident or a first-time visitor, our platform is designed to keep you connected and informed about all things Lake Martin.

RELATED: YHN Media Group announces new lifestyle brand, Lake Martin Life

Throughout the exciting developments, the annual honors and events put on by each outlet remain a source of pride for the stories of success, creativity, influence, and so much more for so many Alabamians over the years.

Through Women of Impact, we highlight the personal and professional advancements of Alabama women by finding 20 incredible leaders across the state, true trailblazers. We tell their stories one by one and host a state-wide event to celebrate their amazing contributions.

Each year at Power & Influence, we celebrate the state’s most powerful and influential individuals on Alabama policy. The Top 50 tells the story of who has the ability to use its influence to propel the state forward, and the event brings together a list of Alabama’s Who’s Who.

Our annual Legislative Review is a chance for our state’s leaders to discuss the current legislative session, including key policy topics, the agenda, and the priorities of focus. 

SoulGrown’s Soul of the South Awards honor those who came before us while celebrating a new wave of talent. Nominated by leaders in their industry, our recipients represent the best that’s yet to come in Alabama.

256 Today’s Innovator Awards recognizes Excellence in the Support and Protection of our Nation and serves as a platform to recognize their invaluable contributions and inspire a new generation of defenders and supporters for the future.

“We believe in the people of Alabama and the vast potential of our state,” Ellis Terry said.

“We are grateful for the dedication of our audience and the trust they place in our company to be their daily source of news, information, sports, culture, and everything in between. We are absolutely committed to building the #1 pro-Alabama media network in the state – and we are proud to share the successful strides we’ve made in just the past year.”

‘Tis the season for glittering lights, festive melodies and sugar plum fairies. Huntsville offers a celebration for every tradition— from watching ballerinas in The Nutcracker to listening to a chorus give new life Christmas classics to enjoying festive fairs at new Huntsville landmarks.

Here is a list of just a few of the Huntsville holiday celebrations to unwrap this year.

Tinsel Trail
The Tinsel Trail is a walking path featuring 400 decorated Christmas trees in downtown Huntsville’s Big Spring Park. The trail opens Friday with the lighting of Mayor Tommy Battle’s Rocket City Tree at 6 p.m. Take time to wander through the forest of festive furs or wander through the Black Friday Market from 2-8 p.m.

Big Spring Jingle
Jingle all the way to downtown Huntsville during the Big Spring Jingle. The event features a wonderland of lights, live music, open dance floor and giveaway gifts. Expect a special appearance by Santa himself, and perhaps he might bring a flurry of snow direct from the North Pole. Join in the fun Dec. 20 from 4-9 p.m.

Huntsville Ballet Company’s “The Nutcracker”
The Huntsville Ballet Company presents the 55th annual production of “The Nutcracker” accompanied by the Huntsville Symphony Orchestra. Journey through the story of Clara and her noble Nutcracker with swirling snowflakes, a mischievous mouse king and a whole host of glittering characters. The show is Dec. 13-15 at the Von Braun Civic Center’s Mark C. Smith Concert Hall.
For those who want even more out of the holiday treat, consider taking part in the Sweet Seats ticket option. This experience includes a tour led by a cast member, onstage photo opportunities and gifts from the Sugar Plum Fairy and more.

“A Christmas Carol”
Experience the holiday classic performance of “A Christmas Carol” presented by Fantasy Playhouse. Based on the work of Charles Dickens, take a journey through time with Scrooge as he learns the power of community and camaraderie. This fresh telling is adapted by Huntsville local Cherie Evans.
Tickets are $23 per adult and $18 per child, military discounts are available. Take in this performance from Dec. 6-8 and 12-15.

Orion Winter Park
The Winter Park at the Orion Amphitheater offers a variety of festive fun for all ages including glice skating, curling, photos with Santa, a ride on the Orion Express, festive performances and delectable treats. Some activities do require purchase of a ticket to participate.
The Orion Amphitheater invites guests to join in the holiday cheer from Nov. 30 – Jan. 1.

Dickens Christmas Fair
What is Christmas without Charles Dickens and his holiday stories? Immerse yourself in the classic Dickens Christmas Fair at the Orion Amphitheater Dec. 20, from 5-9 p.m.
Enjoy the traditional Victorian England fare and festive libation as you listen to timeless holiday carols brought to life by Fantasy Playhouse performers. Take a moment to stop in and take a photo with Santa Claus. There will be an additional option to take part in a Dickens Feast on stage with Chef Josh.

The Living Christmas Tree
The Living Christmas Tree is back to bring holiday melodies to life during its 40th annual season. The eye-catching 39-foot tree is the centerpiece of this choral and orchestral performance of Christmas music presented by First Baptist Church.
Reservations open Dec. 2 and are recommended to ensure there is enough seating available. Tickets are available for Dec. 12-15.

Skating in the Park
Huntsville Museum of Art is bringing back Skating in the Park for its 12th season. The ice skating rink is open Nov. 27 to Jan. 5. Rental skates will be available from the kiosk or feel free to bring your own. For those who want to just watch the show, enjoy treats from the rink-side vendor and get comfortable on available seats with heaters to keep you toasty.
Admission and rental pricing:

• $15 – Ages 10+
• $10 – Ages 9 and under
• $13 – Groups of 10+
• $5 – Scooter rental
• $5 – Discount if you bring your own skates

There is no shortage of ways to celebrate the season with the Huntsville community. Enjoy your favorite traditions and take a chance on new ones that are sure to inspire holiday cheer.

Courtesy of 256 Today.

All the luminaries past and present were there.

There were mayors, council members, civic leaders, movers and shakers and just plain ol’ interested citizens.

All convened in the downtown square for a ribbon-cutting ceremony befitting what has become one of the country’s cool places to live and work.

The new Huntsville City Hall, a seven-story project years in the making that took two years to build, officially opened for business on a hot, sunny Tuesday.

Roads were blocked off to accommodate the sizable crowd that gathered at the corner of Jefferson Street and Fountain Circle for what was called a “100-year” building  that replaced the old one that lasted 60.

“Today, we are turning a page in municipal government,” Mayor Tommy Battle said. “We are proud to present the citizens of Huntsville a municipal building that will last us for the next 100 years.

“This is a building that is worthy of this community and our reputation as a modern, forward-thinking smart city.”

Among those in attendance were former Mayors Loretta Spencer and Steve Hettinger. Along with Battle, speakers included City Council President David Little, City Administrator John Hamilton, General Services Director Ricky Wilkinson, Goodwyn Mills Cawood CEO Jeffrey Brewer, Turner Construction Company VP and General Manager Brendan McCormick and Arts Huntsville Executive Director Allison Dillon-Jauken.

The former city hall, which will be demolished with the site ticketed for Big Spring Park greenspace expansion, was not only in need of repair it didn’t meet the needs of Huntsville’s growth.

Huntsville’s new center of municipal government will bring departments that frequently interact with the public under one roof to provide efficient services for residents and businesspeople who previously had to visit multiple locations to conduct business with the city.

Battle said the old sight had become an eyesore of sorts on the inside when doing business with possible clients.

“They said you wouldn’t know we were a top city by the looks of the offices. And they were right,” Battle said. “Our old city hall lasted 60 years and it’s not a bad run. At one time, it even housed a jail and police and fire departments. And once we outgrew that building, you had to move offices to separate locations throughout the city.

“Today, that chapter’s over.”

CITY HALL BY FLOOR:

• First: Huntsville-Madison County EMA, Print Shop, Inspections, Natural Resources, Fire Marshall
• Second: Council Chambers, Human Resources, Administration
• Third: Finance, City Clerk, Community Development
• Fourth; Planning/GIS;  Engineering, Urban Development
• Fifth: General Services, Legal, ITS
• Sixth: City Council, Conference/Training Space
• Seventh: Office of the Mayor, Communications, DEI
  

  

Through a collaboration with ArtsHuntsville, nine pieces of public art are displayed throughout the building to enhance the community’s cultural experience. Each piece, through the artist’s interpretation, tells Huntsville’s story and spotlights characteristics that make the city unique.

Following the ribbon-cutting ceremony, the city hosted an open house for attendees to explore the building and enjoy the art pieces.

Courtesy of 256 Today. 

Alabama public affairs consultant Paul Shashy and businessman Thomas Harris have purchased Yellowhammer News and its related media affiliates. The affiliates include the YHN Radio Network; 256 Today News, which focuses on the Tennessee Valley; and Soul Grown, a lifestyle outlet that highlights and profiles the very best of Alabama.

The entities will operate under the newly formed umbrella of YHN Media Group LLC, with Ellis Terry appointed to serve as the news operation’s president. 

“The new ownership is committed to expanding and breathing new life into the Yellowhammer News brand while maintaining our tradition of accurate reporting in the areas of business, sports, and politics,” Terry said. “Yellowhammer News and its affiliates will continue sharing positive stories about our state, its people, and the qualities and beliefs that make Alabama such a special place to live, work, worship, and raise families.”

Shashy, a Montgomery native who lives in Birmingham, operates a well-respected political and public affairs firm with an impressive roster of clients. Before opening his own firm several years ago, Shashy was employed by Big Communications in Birmingham. 

Harris is president of Alabama Black Belt Adventures, a nonprofit entity that promotes hunting, fishing, and ecotourism activities throughout the state’s Black Belt region. He is the former president and CEO of Merchant Capital, one of the largest public finance firms in the nation.

Terry founded Soul Grown, which was acquired by Yellowhammer in 2021. He is the director of business development for Ingram and Associates, a real estate marketing and sales firm in Birmingham. He is also a real estate investor.

The new management will assume their responsibilities immediately. No interruption in service or content on any of the websites or media outlets will occur during the transition.

Huntsville-based Dynetics has submitted a bid on the Human Landing System Sustaining Lunar Development contract for NASA’s Artemis mission, the company announced. Northrop Grumman will join the Dynetics team in this pursuit.

Dynetics is a wholly owned subsidiary of Leidos.

“We’re excited to enter the competition to support NASA’s Sustaining Lunar Development efforts, adding Northrop Grumman to our team,” said Leidos Dynetics Group President Steve Cook. “As the only company to successfully build a crewed lunar lander, Northrop Grumman will be an excellent partner as we support NASA’s inspiring efforts to return humans to the lunar surface.

“We will leverage their expertise and legacy of human space exploration, including their ongoing contracts to build the Habitation and Logistics Outpost for NASA’s lunar Gateway and to provide commercial resupply services to the International Space Station, significantly bolstering our pursuit. We’re pleased they have joined us in this historic effort.”

For more than three years, the Dynetics team has been a prime contractor for HLS, the company said in a news release.

Northrop Grumman has also been a primary supporter of HLS, winning prime contracts in 2019 and 2020.

“Our capabilities and experience in pioneering human exploration and space logistics will help provide a lunar transportation system that our nation can rely on for years to come,” said Steve Krein, vice president, Civil and Commercial Space, Northrop Grumman.

“NASA is counting on industry to lead the development of returning astronauts to the moon,” Cook said. “We believe our partnership with Northrop Grumman makes us more than ready for the challenge. We look forward to the hard work ahead.”

(Courtesy of 256 Today)

With three offices under construction on County Line Road in Madison, downtown Huntsville and at Hays Farm in South Huntsville, Bank Independent is preparing for significant growth by hiring banking veteran Nick Rockhill as its vice president of sales for Madison County.

Rockhill and his family live in Madison.

“We are very excited to have someone with Nick’s experience and talent join our Bank Independent family,” said DeMarco McClain, Bank Independent Huntsville City president. “I’ve known Nick for years and have always admired his approach to customer relationships and community partnerships.”

Rockhill has more than 10 years experience in the banking industry, serving on the retail banking side for five years and as a commercial lender for the last five years. He specialized in C&I lending for government contractors, manufacturing entities, and equipment financing, as well as managing commercial real estate transactions, construction lending, healthcare, business acquisitions, and SBA lending.

“Nick is the type of leader who understands the importance of serving others and is willing to invest the time and effort necessary to fulfill the needs of his customers,” McClain said. “I look forward to years of growing and learning together.”

Rockhill is a member of the Huntsville Hospital Foundation board; the Land Trust of North Alabama Board of Directors; Leadership of Greater Huntsville – Management Academy Class 13; Madison Baseball Association Board of Directors; and the Connection Team at The Brook Church.

“My goal has always been to build long lasting relationships and trust with my clients to identify financial solutions and growth opportunities for various business customers,” Rockhill said. “I hope to impact both my clients and peers in a positive way.

“I find great value and satisfaction in helping a business owner achieve his/her goals.”

(Courtesy of 256 Today)

HUNTSVILLE — In a year of the city receiving accolade after accolade nationally and internationally, Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle said one particular mention was “the coolest.”

“The coolest praise came when the Orion (Amphitheater) was mentioned in Rolling Stone,” he said. “We made the cover of the Rolling Stone.”

Battle made the remark during Tuesday’s annual State of the City address – Battle’s 14^th since being elected in 2008. The sold-out gathering in the Von Braun Center was hosted by the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber and is the group’s largest annual event.

Battle spoke of the city’s quality of life now and for generations to come.

“They are the ones who will benefit from the investments we make today,” he said. “Quality of life means different things to different people. That’s why everything we plan, develop and build is done with transparency and prudence.

“It is done with purpose, a strategy.”

Battle said investments in roads, greenways, parks, entertainment and other amenities benefit current residents and future Huntsvillians.

“Quality of life investments will help attract the best and the brightest,” he said.

Among the many projects to see fruition over the next few years is the second phase of  Battle’s Restore Our Roads initiative.

With Huntsville now being the state’s largest city and more people expected to move here (a measurable growth of 4,500 to 5,000 people Battle told reporters after his address), the road projects are a front-burner item. The projects, which will cost an estimated $800 million, will enhance traffic flow around the city and in and out of Redstone Arsenal.

“With growth, we may not be able to provide an 18-minute (average) commute for everyone, but we’re working to keep traffic moving, safe, and manageable,” Battle said. “None of these projects would be possible without careful planning, wise spending and strong relationships with our regional, state and federal partners.

“As we grow our infrastructure, we will be able to keep our quality of life.”

Battle also highlighted the 24% growth in employment in the Huntsville metro area over the past 12 years.

“Anyone who wants a well-paying job in Huntsville can find one,” he said. “Now that we’re on the map, folks are checking us out. We’re in the enviable position, and we’ve got great stories to tell.

Battle said the city met a challenge of building a strong middle class.

“We’re able to establish a middle income level and give people the opportunity to buy a house, put a roof over their head,” he said. “We have a full range of upper income, middle income and entry-level jobs.”

Despite the accolades and the top rankings, Battle said there’s still room for improvements.

“Great is a finite place,” he said. “We want to be better. The state of our city is strong.

“We’re not going to rest on our laurels.”

(Courtesy of 256 Today)

For the fourth year in a row, Bank Independent has been selected one of the 2022 Best Banks to Work For, according to American Banker and Best Companies Group.

“Our mission of making a positive difference in people’s lives includes our team members and this honor reflects that,” said Rick Wardlaw, CEO of Bank Independent.  “We want a culture where our team members look forward to coming to work, where they can collaborate and work together with other team members and are rewarded with benefits that let them know they are appreciated.

“This ranking reflects our success both for our team members and as an organization.”

American Banker and Best Companies Group annually select banks that excel at creating positive and supportive workplaces. This year, 90 banks earned a spot in the rankings; Bank Independent ranked No. 30.

American Banker is a Manhattan-based trade publication covering the financial services industry.

Best Companies Group managed the registration and survey process, and analyzed the data to determine the final ranking.

A two-step process helps determine the rankings: The first step consists of evaluating each participating bank’s workplace policies, practices, and demographics, valued at 25% of the total evaluation. The second step consists of anonymous employee surveys aimed at assessing the experiences and attitudes of individual employees with respect to their workplace. This part of the process is worth 75% of the total evaluation.

The combined scores determined the final ranking.

“The banks recognized on this list are trying hard to create workplaces that employees want to join,” said Chana R. Schoenberger, editor-in-chief of American Banker. “Especially during this moment when companies are experiencing a shift in how, where, and how much employees work, banks are paying attention to how they can best retain their people.”

To be considered for participation, banks had to have at least 50 employees working in the U.S., and to have been in business for a minimum of one year.

The full 2022 Best Banks to Work For list can be found by clicking here.

(Courtesy of 256 Today)

College football is a reality show. Each week, we see story lines unfold and the playoff picture comes a little bit more into focus. Still, in the first month of the season we’ve seen the coaching carousel begin and several teams begin to tell us who they are.

Here is what we learned from week three of college football.

ALABAMA IS FRIGHTENING – AND NOT IN A GOOD WAY

Alabama is a good team. They scored all the points they needed to beat Louisiana-Monroe in four minutes after Will Anderson’s pick-6. But man, those penalties are a problem.

When you commit a pre-snap penalty on the first play of the game, discipline is an issue. As the conference schedule approaches, Alabama’s offensive line still hasn’t gelled. It’s terrific that linebackers and the secondary are chomping at the bit to hit somebody, but that’s translating into dumb flags that could cost a game against Georgia or even Tennessee.

Yes, it’s only week three. Yes, Alabama still won by a comical margin. But improvements need to be made if this team wants to win another championship, and the Tide travels to Fayetteville in 12 days.

AUBURN SHOULD JUST TAKE THE YEAR OFF

There’s not a lot that can be said of Auburn’s blowout home loss to Penn State this weekend. They couldn’t move the ball at home for the second straight week, they can’t cobble together 15 minutes of competent quarterback play, and the SEC buzz saw is knocking on the door.

Auburn will lose more games this year, but this loss will stay with the team. What’s happening down there isn’t moving in the right direction. When Tiger fans celebrate their band not leaving the stadium or how nice they were to opposing fans instead of anything on the field, it’s not a good trajectory.

Of course you were nice to Penn State fans. What are you going to do? Trash talk when you’re down by four touchdowns?

Auburn should just take the year off. And Liberty coach Hugh Freeze should start looking for real estate in Lee County.

OTHER SEC ACTION: GEORGIA IS GOOD AT FOOTBALL

Georgia looks like a better football team every week. Their defense again held its opponent to single digits despite lining up against a competent quarterback, albeit one wearing a South Carolina jersey.

Texas A&M bounced back after last week’s embarrassing loss to beat No. 9 Miami at home. That’s great for the Aggies, but Jimbo Fisher’s offense is flat and can’t score the points they need to win games in the SEC.

Is Tennessee back? They’ve blown out two cupcakes and showed their mettle on the road in a win against Pitt. They’re not a playoff team, but the Vols are doing what they’re supposed to. And that’s the most we’ve seen out of Tennessee in decades.

Kentucky has an excuse to be optimistic about their season. Fans should enjoy it while it lasts because Georgia will make them looks like, well, Kentucky when the two meet in November.

As always, Arkansas is a weird, inconsistent team. They can look like a top 10 team or they’re a squad that needs all 60 minutes to come back against Missouri State. Their next big test is next week when they play Texas A&M at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

WHAT’S NEXT?

Florida visits Tennessee in a quintessential 2:30 p.m. CBS game.

Clemson visits Wake Forest in a game that will probably decide the ACC’s Atlantic Division.

The Arkansas – Texas A&M game will end stupidly in a score of 11 to 9 1/3.

Missouri visits Auburn and Vanderbilt travels to Tuscaloosa.

What did we get wrong? What games are you looking forward to? Let us know on Twitter or Instagram. Listen to Throw the Flag below or wherever you get your podcasts.

(Courtesy of 256 Today)

Auburn University and the Army have signed a 10-year agreement to provide natural resource management services to eight military bases across the Southeast, including Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville.

The other bases are Fort Rucker in Alabama; Forts Benning, Gordon, and Stewart in Georgia; Fort Polk in Louisiana; Fort Bragg in North Carolina and Fort Jackson in South Carolina.

HUNTSVILLE — A debate among seven of the eight candidates for Huntsville City School Board addressed questions regarding personal political beliefs, mask mandates, and critical race theory in schools. “Cookies and Candidates”, hosted by the group 5 Strong, took place Wednesday at the downtown Huntsville Madison County library.

District 2 candidates Sean Lulofs, Holly McCarty and Jeniece Willis Wilmer were joined by District 3 candidates Andrea Alvarez, incumbent Elisa Ferrell, and Angela McClure. Candidate for District 4, Ricky Howard, also took part while incumbent Ryan Renaud did not attend.

The debate included eight long-form questions where candidates were each given one minute to answer, followed by a “lightning round” question that could only be answered with a “yes”, “no”, or “I don’t know.” Audience questions were also allowed in the last part  with candidates given one minute each to answer.

When asked the lightning round question, “Do you support mandatory masking of students?”, each candidate answered no. However, in a follow-up question from the audience, candidates were asked to expand their answers considering masks were required in Huntsville City Schools.

Ferrell said the superintendent has the power to require masks, not the school board. Lulofs said he was frustrated about the masking issue and that is why he is running for the school board.

“I wasn’t heard, no one responded to my questions or my emails,” said Lulofs.

Wilmer said school officials were doing the best they could with the information they had at the time.

Candidates were also asked by the audience about their political beliefs. McClure responded while she is personally a conservative, “Politics do not belong in education.” Ferrell said she cast her first vote for Reagan and has voted Republican ever since.

When asked about elected school boards versus appointed school boards, Alvarez stood up quickly to decry the current system, “This system is not better, what we have done, we have entered a race and polarized it.”

Howard offered a differing view, saying elected school board members ensure the people are represented.

An additional lightning round question revealed all candidates opposed CRT being included in Huntsville City Schools curriculum. The Alabama State Board of Education passed a resolution in August 2021 banning the instruction of CRT in public schools.

Audience member Amber Hyland, a resident of District 3, said she was pleased with the debate.

“I think this is beneficial.  I can learn more about the candidates, even the ones not in my district,” said Hyland who has a fifth-grader and a third-grader in Huntsville City Schools.  Hyland said she was especially interested in the candidates past school involvement, “It was important to me to learn about who has actually volunteered and worked in our schools.”

Registered voters in Districts 2, 3 and 4 will head to the polls Aug. 23 to cast their ballots for City Council and Board of Education in the municipal election.

(Courtesy of 256 Today)

256 Today is made up of a dedicated local team reporting the news that impacts North Alabamian’s daily lives. Rooted in the community, 256 Today has boots on the ground working to share the latest news on business, government, workforce, culture and community. The goal at 256 Today is to deliver the news that tells the story of the region with a knowledgeable approach and respect for the audience. 256 Today is Smart News for Smart People.

In North Alabama there are rocket scientists, health care professionals, stay-at-home parents, computer analysts, educators, farmers, contractors, engineers, artists, military personnel, and so much more. No matter the occupation, 256 Today believes the Tennessee Valley is tied together by people who are all (S)elf-sufficient, (M)otivated, (A)dept, (R)esourceful, and (T)rustworthy. People who deserve to have their local news reflect that. People who are – as the dictionary defines it – “capable of independent action,” and as we define it, smart as hell.

Respect is the foundation upon which 256 Today is built.

“Respect for our audience, respect for our region and respect for our staff and contributors is the foundation upon which our delivery of news and information is built,” states CEO Mecca Musick

256 Today is independently owned and funded by advertising revenue generated from our digital, radio and broadcast platforms, as well as event sponsorships.

Retired U.S. Army Colonel Casey Wardynski, Republican candidate for Alabama’s fifth congressional district, on Wednesday released his campaign’s first television advertisement of the 2022 primary election cycle.

According to Wardynski’s campaign, the ad is accompanied with a “significant” districtwide cable and broadcast media buy.

The ad, titled “With Trump,” recalls Wardynski’s service in the armed forces and his time as assistant secretary of the Army in the administration of former President Donald Trump.

“President Trump placed special trust and confidence in his ability, conservative Casey Wardynski,” says the ad narrator. “Thirty-year veteran, retired colonel, Trump’s assistant secretary of the Army. Casey Wardynski stopped Critical Race Theory in the Army. When Republicans failed to build Trump’s wall, Casey Wardynski changed the hiring rules so 450 miles of wall could be built in record time. He’s tough. He’ll fight for Trump’s agenda. Conservative Casey Wardynski for Congress.”

Watch:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BLRTeLkYHSs

In a release, Wardynski campaign manager Chad Niblett spoke to the candidate’s Army background and work in assisting Trump construct the wall along the southern border.

“With more cash on hand for the primary than any other Republican candidate, our campaign is excited to share Casey’s story and conservative message throughout the district,” stated Niblett. “Casey Wardynski proudly served our country in the Army, rising to the rank of Colonel. When President Trump needed a strong conservative by his side as Assistant Secretary of the Army, he appointed Casey to serve in the Pentagon. And when President Trump was sick of weak-kneed Republicans for not building his wall, Casey Wardynski changed the hiring rules to get 450-miles of wall built in record time.”

The primary election will take place on May 24, 2022.

Dylan Smith is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @DylanSmithAL

The University of North Alabama (UNA) College of Business and Technology on Thursday announced that it had received a $2.45 million charitable gift from the estate of late Henry and Janice King, which is the largest gift in the college’s history.

According to UNA, the donation will be utilized to establish the Henry and Janice King Endowed Scholarship Fund.

Dr. Gregory Carnes, dean of UNA’s College of Business and Technology, stated that the King family’s donation would hold a long-lasting impact on the university.

“I am grateful for the generosity of the King family. This monumental gift will have a tremendous impact on UNA business students for years to come,” said Carnes. “The funds will provide scholarships to students who may not otherwise have the financial means to further their education. This generous gift will ensure that many UNA business and technology students can pursue an affordable education, which will transform their lives and the future of their family members.”

Henry King, who passed in 2014, was a Shoals area businessman and served as founder and president of King Realty and Auction Company Inc. He obtained his bachelor’s degree from UNA in business administration. King was a recipient of the UNA Alumni of the Year award, served as chairman for the UNA President’s Cabinet and UNA Foundation Board, and was an instructor for economics in the business school.

King’s wife, Janice, passed away in 2020. She was a graduate of Florence State College and held a bachelor’s degree in economics.

Dylan Smith is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @DylanSmithAL

According to Casey Wardynski, Republican candidate for Alabama’s fifth congressional district, Huntsville would be the ideal home for a hypothetical U.S. Space Force (USSF) academy.

As the Air Force is moving forward with its plans to relocate the U.S. Space Command from Colorado to Huntsville, Alabama’s most populous metropolitan city is poised to further expand its role in protecting national security interests.

Should his campaign to represent North Alabama as a member of Congress prove successful, Wardynski tells Yellowhammer News that he plans to spearhead legislative efforts to establish a Huntsville-based USSF academy.

While such an ambitious legislative effort as a freshman congressman could prove to be a challenging undertaking, Wardynski contends that he is well-positioned to accomplish such an effort due to his prior military service and career experience.

A graduate of West Point, Wardynski served for more than three decades as an Army officer and retired with the rank of colonel. He is the holder of a master’s degree from Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government and a doctorate degree from Frederick S. Pardee RAND Graduate School.

Prior to becoming CEO of marketing and event technology firm FISH Technologies, LLC in 2017, Wardynski served for five years as superintendent of Huntsville City Schools. He was confirmed by the U.S. Senate in 2019 as assistant secretary of the Army for Manpower and Reserve Affairs after receiving an appointment to the post from former President Donald Trump.

According to Wardynski, the Air Force intends to commission around 120 graduates from its academy into the USSF. This officer group is poised to lead a core of around 10,000 guardians to defend the United States in the realm of space.

Wardynski notes that shortly after the Air Force was first established as its own branch within the armed forces in 1947, calls were made for the air service branch to establish an academy to create a unique identity and culture for its airmen. The candidate says he believes it is in the nation’s strategic interests to follow this path for the USSF.

“The basic concept would be to look back at three things: Identity, purpose and culture. Every service has a purpose,” says Wardynski. “The Army’s is to win the nation’s wars on land. The Air Force’s essentially is to operate as an entirely independent force to bring airpower to bear to win the nation’s wars. And the Navy’s is maritime and sea control.”

“Now we’ve got the new thing called Space Force. And it’s the adjunct to what the Army, Navy, Air Force and the Marines — it’s a force to fight in space,” he adds. “It is not the Command that fights in space but it’s the people, the doctrine, the technology which is built by a new service called Space Force under the Department of the Air Force to fight in space. And that basic concept is brand new.”

Due to the unique talent management approach the USSF will have to undertake, which is much different from other approaches in the military, Wardynski advises that the USSF should hold its own academy to appropriately prepare its officers for the challenges specific to the force.

“Space is entirely different,” continues Wardynski. “The idea that we’re going to be successful in creating a small, yet highly-capable force of experts in space combat within an organization that’s focused on airmen… probably isn’t going to cut it.”

“So the concept would be to create an educational environment, and academy and the supporting upstream educational experience for professional development for the Space Force,” he says. “The people would be charged with thinking about, preparing for and fighting operations in space – which is, as you can imagine, entirely different than the atmosphere.”

With Huntsville’s ever-increasing industrial prowess in the realm of aerospace and defense, in addition to the bountiful educational opportunities the city boasts, Wardynski advises that Redstone Arsenal holds all the makings for an academy specific to the newly-established USSF.

“To give them the jump they’re going to need to get where they need to go quickly, they really need to be immersed in a place that’s focused on space – that would be northern Alabama,” advises Wardynski. “We’ve got great educational resources here to begin that effort.”

Dylan Smith is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @DylanSmithAL

United Launch Alliance (ULA) on Friday successfully launched an Atlas V rocket carrying the U.S. Space Force’s Space Systems Command USSF-8 mission.

The launch from Space Launch Complex-41 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida marked ULA’s 148th launch. The rocket manufacturer continues to hold an unblemished mission success rate.

ULA launched two Geosynchronous Space Situational Awareness Program (GSSAP) satellites. The satellites will serve to support the U.S. Space Command’s space surveillance operations as a dedicated Space Surveillance Network (SSN) sensor.

The satellites will provide critical information to space-traveling nations by issuing hazard warnings while spacecrafts are in flight and move dangerously close to another orbiting object.

Gary Wentz, ULA vice president of Government and Commercial Programs, spoke to the company’s record of supporting the nation’s space-based national security objectives.

“ULA continues to launch national security assets into highly complex orbits. The USSF-8 mission was successfully delivered to near-geosynchronous orbit after a nearly 7-hour mission,” said Wentz. “We want to thank the U.S. Space Force and our mission partners for their teamwork for the successful launch and delivery to orbit.”

According to a release, the mission launched on an Atlas V 511 configuration rocket that included a five-meter short payload fairing. ULA industry partners Aerojet Rocketdyne and Northrop Grumman provided vital components for the launch.

Friday’s launch was ULA’s 91st launch of the Atlas V rocket. The company’s next launch will carry NASA’s GOES-T mission, planned for March 1, 2022, at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.

Dylan Smith is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @DylanSmithAL

An expert in missile defense at Raytheon Technologies in Huntsville, Dr. Patti Dare had always dreamed of opening a coffee shop. When she found the perfect spot in Guntersville, Dare and her partner, Jason Hill, decided to add a unique twist: Combining their passion for escape rooms with their passion for coffee, Sweet Escapes was born.

The new addition on Lake Guntersville officially opened for business on Dec. 11. The first of three escape rooms – this one pirate-themed – won’t be completed until later this month with the others soon to follow. Dare and Hill, who works for Huntsville-based Rogers Group and owns a tree business on the side, come up with all the clues on their own.

“The engineering mindset is useful for developing clues for the escape rooms,” Dare said.

Dare, a 2018 Yellowhammer Woman of Impact, is in a dual-hatted position at Raytheon, serving as the Huntsville Site Executive and the Requirements and Capabilities Executive for the Strategic Missile Defense (SMD) mission area. Prior to working at Raytheon, she was in the same field at Boeing.

“I really like my job,” she said. “We’re doing the counter hypersonics and next generation interceptor right now. Those are big programs for us.”

Dare and Hill spent months working on the small business, completing much of the labor on their own, including hanging a canoe upside down on the paneled ceiling to serve as an eye-catching light fixture.

All coffees, teas and treats offered at Sweet Escapes are bought locally in North Alabama, mainly from the Huntsville area. Dare is hoping to expand the menu, as well as the outdoor seating area and potentially add a drive-thru.

Sweet Escapes is classified as a small, woman-owned business. Dare’s partners include Hill, and Ryan and Lisa Higginbotham. The shop, located on Gunter Ave., is open every day of the week. Call ahead coffee orders and escape room reservations can be made at (256)486-3127.

Did a book written more than 70 years ago by American space pioneer Dr. Wernher von Braun predict that a man called Elon would lead a 10-man government of Mars colonies?

This story may not have received much attention except that billionaire Elon Musk is stepping out and being very public about his desire to colonize other planets and has spoken specifically of Mars. The book’s prediction was discovered a few years ago but has resurfaced on social media.

Dr. von Braun authored a book in 1948 while he was at Ft. Bliss, Texas, called Marsprojekt. The science fiction novel was published in German. Three years after Dr. von Braun relocated to Huntsville, the book was published in English by the University of Illinois Press in 1953 and titled, The Mars Project.

Dr. von Braun was one of the most influential engineers of the 20th century and served as the first director of Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville. He was a key figure in the development of America’s space program, which led to the historic accomplishment of landing humans on the moon. Von Braun also envisioned a manned trip to Mars following the excursion to the moon.

His book was highly technical in nature and provided the engineering basis for establishing an “enormous scientific expedition” that involved 10 spacecraft with 70 crew members that would return after spending 443 days on Mars before the trip back to Earth.

The book included 48 chapters describing in highly technical language the construction of three-stage ferry vessels, spaceships, landing boats, ferry flights and general logistics, power plant performance, and interplanetary radio communication.

In the late 1950s, a syndicated Sunday magazine supplement published excerpts from Mars Project. This magazine focused on Dr. von Braun’s philosophies on space flight and the future of humanity rather than the technical details of traveling to Mars.

In 2006, the science fiction novel from Dr. von Braun from 1948, which had gone unpublished, was released by a Canadian publisher of space-related historical science fiction as “Project Mars: A Technical Tale.”

Chapter 24 of this science fiction work is titled, “How Mars in Governed.” In one passage of that chapter, the book states: The Martian government was directed by 10 men, the leader of whom was elected by universal suffrage for five years and had the title of “Elon.” Two houses of parliament enacted the laws to be administered by Elon and his cabinet. The upper house was called the Council of the Elders and contained 60 people who were named to those positions for life by Elon.

In the author’s preface to this book, written by Dr. von Braun, he states the purpose (of the publication) is to stimulate interest in space travel.”

Seventy years later, Elon Musk, 50, is capturing a lot of interest for space travel in saying he is open about his wish to explore other worlds, tweeting recently that he wants to “‘make humanity a multiplanet species.” Musk is one of a handful of billionaires with plans to colonize the Red Planet within the next few decades. His company SpaceX recently became the first private outfit to launch NASA astronauts into space. And while SpaceX’s reusable rockets have only reached Earth’s orbit so far, the California company says that future craft will travel much farther.

Musk, who was named Time magazine’s Person of the Year for 2021, outlines his plan involving building an expansive fleet of Starship vehicles, which comprise a huge rocket topped by a bullet-shaped spacecraft. Starship is currently in development at a site in Texas and is designed to reach the Moon, Mars and beyond. SpaceX plans to reach orbit with the vehicle in an unmanned test flight in 2022. Billionaire Musk, who is also CEO of the electric car manufacturer Tesla, hopes to send a million people to Mars in his lifetime using a 1,000-strong fleet of the powerful rockets.

Musk is targeting a Mars cargo mission in 2022 and a manned flight to the Red Planet by 2024.

However, the team has a long way to go before they can conduct Starship’s first manned flight. A prototype Starship recently completed its first successful test flight and landing, reaching an altitude of 6.2 miles. The finished product will stand 165 feet tall and boast six of SpaceX’s powerful Raptor engines.

United Launch Alliance (ULA) is putting the final touches in its preparation to launch an Atlas V 511 rocket in support of the U.S. Space Force.

The U.S. Space Force’s Space Systems Command USSF-8 mission will launch two identical Geosynchronous Space Situational Awareness Program (GSSAP) satellites. After launch, the satellites will become synchronized with the earth’s orbit approximately 22,300 miles above the equator.

The mission is progressing toward a January 21 launch date and will take place at Space Launch Complex-41 at Florida’s Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.

According to ULA, the launch of the GSSAP satellites will be in support of the U.S. Space Command’s space surveillance operations as a dedicated Space Surveillance Network (SSN) sensor. The satellites will provide watch services to assist with the flight safety of all space-traveling nations within its realm of orbit.

Check out the mission profile video to watch a preview of what you can expect during the #AtlasV 511 rocket’s flight to deliver the #USSF8 mission with two GSSAP satellites for the @SpaceForceDoD @USSF_SSC.

Watch the full video on YouTube: https://t.co/Ce6UlTYrPg pic.twitter.com/3DiZiwRx22

— ULA (@ulalaunch) January 18, 2022

Due to the satellites’ positioning, the technology will allow for spacecraft operators to be warned if another object is approaching the craft to avoid a potentially hazardous situation.

Data obtained from the satellites will contribute to the accuracy of orbital predictions, ULA advised. The mission will serve to expand observers’ knowledge of Geosynchronous Earth Orbit (GEO) environment to further enable space flight safety, paving the way to avoid satellite collision.

The mission will see the first and only planned flight of the Atlas V 511 configuration. The 511 rocket is the only configuration in the Atlas family that has yet to fly.

To date, ULA holds an unblemished mission success rate.

Dylan Smith is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @DylanSmithAL

A new project is coming to Huntsville’s Cummings Research Park (CRP) in the form of a mixed-use development, the first of its kind in the eastern section of the park.

The development, named Arcadia, will be constructed at the corner of Bradford Drive and Wynn Drive by Bobo Development Group and Retail Specialists.

According to a release, crews have demolished the former Catholic High School building that was previously housed on the site.

CRP advised that the development will house 12,000 square feet of office space, 7,000 square feet of retail space, along with 251 apartment units.

Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle indicated that the development was designed to equip the park with the assets needed to fulfill industry needs.

“This development is the result of a comprehensive, strategic planning initiative to ensure Huntsville’s CRP is able to meet the evolving needs and demands of the business and research market,” stated Battle. “We look forward to welcoming Arcadia to CRP.”

The development stems from the needs identified in CRP’s 2016 Master Plan and the City of Huntsville’s 2016 Urban Renewal Plan.

CRP executive director Erin Koshut asserted that the mixed-use development was planned for the park’s eastern section due to the need of further growth in that portion of the park.

“Arcadia has been conceived by developers with purposeful intent. CRP East needed to become a more viable and healthy part of the market, as we’ve already seen in developments in the western portion of CRP,” said Koshut. “Looking at occupancy rates from last year, CRP East was just over 88 percent occupied, whereas CRP West was nearly 98% occupied.”

The release noted that Arcadia’s announcement was a result of city governmental and industrial leadership’s efforts to revitalize CRP East over the past few years.

Arcadia is being developed across the street from the Alabama School for Cyber Technology and Engineering. Recent growth of CRP East over the past two years includes the Orion Amphitheater and Encore in the MidCity district and Northrop Grumman’s Wynn Drive investment.

Other developments include the Drury Inn on Wynn Drive and the University of Alabama in Huntsville’s purchase of Plaza Office Park on Sparkman Drive.

According to Bobo Development Group CEO James Bobo, the current economic climate made Arcadia’s announcement well timed.

“With the current and projected growth in the Huntsville market, the timing is perfect to introduce the newest project in the community,” stated Bobo.

Robert Jolly, CEO of Retail Specialists, expressed excitement over his firm’s role in the development and recruitment of the project’s retail component.

“We are excited to begin work on such a significant development in Huntsville,” declared Jolly. “Our team looks forward to bringing new restaurant and retail options for the growing area.”

Dylan Smith is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @DylanSmithAL

Some of the biggest acts in music history have strolled down the halls of the Von Braun Center in downtown Huntsville. That venue has served as the location for most of Huntsville’s major events since the doors were opened in 1975.

The VBC offers multiple venues for presenting cultural, educational, entertainment, conventions as well as sporting and social events. While the facility has undergone numerous expansions and renovations, the backstage area of the arena has been changed little since it opened nearly a half century ago.

That has changed with the $4 million expansion began in December 2020 and was recently completed. The original space included one locker room that was often subdivided into two spaces, plus multiple small dressing rooms.

With this latest addition, the backstage now includes six dressing rooms, two private star lounges, four locker rooms, a catering and media room, office space, commercial-grade laundry room, and more.

“The intent of the project was to not only bring our backstage spaces up to current sports and entertainment standards, but to surpass the expectations that touring teams and stars come to expect,” said VBC executive director Steve Maples. “We wanted to give them a ‘Wow’ moment when they enter our facility, give them a reason to not stay on their bus, and ultimately leave a lasting impression.”

The Von Braun Center has brought thousands of events to Huntsville through the arena, including top-tier artists like Elton John, Jackson Five, Jimmy Buffet, Prince, The Eagles, Aerosmith, Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton, Charlie Pride, and Alabama, in an abbreviated list.

VBC officials point out that the venue is playing host to more than music events. Huntsville’s Southern Professional Hockey League – the Huntsville Havoc – call the VBC Propst Arena home.

The new backstage additions to the arena will make hosting future sporting events and large-scale events easier with more space and accessibility for all performers, teams, and participants.

The outcome of the year-long project leaves the arena’s backstage with dressing rooms and star lounges that look and feel like a 5-star hotel, according to VBC director of Marketing and Public Relations Samantha Nielsen. Amidst fresh paint and plush furniture, entertainers and crews will enjoy the hand-picked artwork hanging on the walls, she said.

“More than just giving our guests a fantastic space, they can relax and enjoy their time. We took great care into thoughtfully picking each of the art elements and special little details that welcome each individual to Huntsville,” Nielsen said. “For instance, each of the new rooms are in keeping with the space theme that’s prevalent throughout the Rocket City.”

The main star lounge is called the “Galaxy Lounge.” Other space-centric spaces include, “Mission Control” (the production office), and “Launchpad” (the training room). Each of the dressing rooms are identified by a planet’s name, according to Nielsen.

As performers, athletes and crews walk down the main corridor running the length of the expansion, they will come across enlarged photograph panels highlighting past events in the arena. In the opposite direction leading to the star lounges and dressing rooms, vibrant large-scale photographs by well-known talented local photographer, Dennis Keim, capture a creative glimpse into the beauty of music – like his brightly colored closeup shot of eight guitars, or his black and white detailed photograph of a man’s hands playing a Les Paul.

Once inside the Galaxy Lounge, one of the most notable moments in VBC history is showcased. Elvis photographs found in The Huntsville Times archives illustrate his time at the VBCC in 1975 when he played five consecutive sold-out shows, and then again in 1976 with another two sold-out shows. Photographs include an enlarged performance shot capturing the moment he threw his scarf into the crowd; the outdoor marquee showing ELVIS – SOLD OUT; and excited concertgoers lined up in front of the building waiting to get in for the shows.

Off to the side, in a bank of four dressing rooms, framed photographs with the artist’s name and date the picture was taken at the VBC further illustrate the history of past stars who have performed in the building

Step into the private star chambers – Lunar Lounge – and the reason behind the city’s nickname becomes clear. Enlarged Dennis Keim photographs highlight the U.S. Space and Rocket Center’s Saturn V rocket, accompanied by a large oil painting of an astronaut.

As performers leave the spacious and luxurious quarters to take to the stage, the last pieces of art seen is a large 28-foot by 7-foot photograph broken into three panels featuring the Saturn V rocket at night with traffic light trails leading the way towards the audience.

Adjacent is a hand-painted mural by local artist, Brandon Stoll. The painting gives
the viewer the perspective that they are standing on the surface of Mars looking at a directional signpost indicating the backstage room names.

If there was one takeaway from the investment in the arena’s backstage area, it was expressed by Steve Maples when referring to the celebrities appearing at the VBC. The idea was to create an impression on visitors to Huntsville; a “Wow Moment.”

Mission accomplished.

Ray Garner is a contributing writer to Yellowhammer News.

The City of Huntsville recently approved a project agreement with Facebook, now officially known as Meta, which will expand the tech giant’s campus in the North Huntsville Industrial Park.

Meta currently operates two data center buildings in the Rocket City, with a third building being granted regulatory approval by the city nearly a month ago. Three additional buildings are being constructed on the campus that could be completed as soon as the end of this year.

According to Shane Davis, Huntsville’s director of Urban and Economic Development, the 250-acre expansion will create a second campus north of Meta’s current site.

“They like Huntsville and they want to continue to grow,” Davis proclaimed at a Huntsville City Council meeting in mid-December. “They like our business climate and environment and our investment into infrastructure and the workforce quality that is here.”

In a release issued on Monday by the City of Huntsville, the municipality announced that the expansion would pave the way for infrastructure enhancements and provide increased revenue for Huntsville City Schools.

Along with key road and traffic improvements, additional infrastructure enhancements include a $2.8 million sanitary sewer extension. The city noted that $2.5 million of the funding will be provided by Meta.

Davis described the funding as “a significant shot of revenue… and added growth in North Huntsville,” going on to state that the city and school system’s return on investment would be an estimated $8.1 million.

Also considered in the economic impact stemming from the expansion is the more than 1,000 construction workers who are spending their earnings at local businesses and restaurants.

The release stated that once the second campus was complete, the company’s site will span nearly 600 acres within the industrial park. The expansion, which holds a price tag of $750 million, will create 50 new jobs with a required annual wage of $80,000.

According to the city, Meta has invested $3 billion in Huntsville operations to date. The company has hired 75 employees and is in the process of hiring additional workers. Once the second campus is complete, the activity is expected to generate an extra $8-10 million for local schools.

Davis added, “When you take 27.5 mills annually of that investment and it’s going to your school system, it’s significant.”

Meta has provided over $1.9 million to city and county schools by way of partnerships with local schools and nonprofit organizations assisting underserved youth, promoting STEM education, and supporting equity and empowerment programs.

The release also noted the company’s partnership with the U.S. Space & Rocket Center and its support of Girls Inc., Fantasy Playhouse and the Boys & Girls Clubs of North Alabama.

The city council meeting during which Davis outlined the company’s expansion plans and its impact on the Huntsville community can be viewed here.

Dylan Smith is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @DylanSmithAL

Fort Payne-based Artemis Shielding, a veteran-owned and operated radiation shielding manufacturer, is working to remove toxic lead from shielding materials in various industries.

Artemis Shielding provides custom solutions for the medical, nuclear, security and testing industries. The company recently entered the aerospace industry.

A release stated that Artemis’ Radiation Shielding Material (RSM) in February of this year launched with the Northrop Grumman Cygnus resupply spacecraft to the International Space Station (ISS). The material, which was lead-free and non-toxic, provided a custom-cut solution for Aegis Aerospace’s avionics boxes.

While aboard the ISS, Artemis’ material protected testing equipment from the negative effects of radiation during extended exposure periods.

Artemis Shielding CEO Buddy Lockwood touted his company’s recent entry into the space travel industry.

“We are very excited to have added space travel to the expanding list of industries we serve,” proclaimed Lockwood. “Our February 2021 ISS mission with Aegis Aerospace (formerly Alpha Space) opened the door for us into this arena of the Aerospace industry.”

He added, “We expect 2022 to present even more opportunities for companies across several industries to turn to Artemis Shielding for help with their radiation shielding challenges.”

According to the company, Artemis Shielding’s Nanotek technology is making strides in space and across the globe. Artemis’ lead-free security curtains are being incorporated for Integrated Defense and Security Solutions’ (IDSS) award-winning DETECTTM 1000 computed tomography (CT) checkpoint baggage scanner.

Airport employees and passengers around the globe benefit from the partnership as the company is shielding the public from harmful radiation during the airport screening process. According to the company, all of its solutions are lead-free, non-toxic and provide superior shielding protection.

Dylan Smith is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @DylanSmithAL

The U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) last week announced that Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation in Huntsville had been awarded a $1.38 billion contract for the production of the U.S. Army’s Integrated Battle Command System (IBCS).

Designed to be the nation’s most advanced air and missile deterrent, the IBCS will serve to connect sensors with the most effective shooters across the Army’s battlefield domains.

In a statement provided to Defense News, Northrop Grumman Defense Systems president Mary Petryszyn touched on the company’s work in supporting the DOD’s Joint All-Domain Command and Control (JADC2).

“In partnership with the U.S. Army, Northrop Grumman will deliver IBCS to the warfighter, bringing its critical all domain capabilities to the changing battlefield,” stated Petryszyn. “It’s also a major milestone in the extension of our open systems architecture approach to JADC2.”

The Army advised that Northrop Grumman will deliver up to 160 systems to the Army and U.S. allies, the outlet reported.

Northrop Grumman earlier this year expanded its Huntsville footprint as the company created 500 jobs at its Cummings Research Park facility to support the U.S. Air Force Ground Based Strategic Deterrent (GBSD) Program.

The defense giant currently holds more than 2,000 employees in Alabama and holds a wide-ranging contract portfolio supporting a variety of DOD and NASA missions.

According to the Pentagon, the contract’s completion date is estimated to be December 22, 2026. Contracting activity for the service will be supervised by the U.S. Army Contracting Command at Redstone Arsenal.

Dylan Smith is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @DylanSmithAL