🌱 Support For Stronger Hands Free Law + VBC North Hall Renamed

Good morning, everybody. Joyce Nash here with your fresh copy of the Huntsville Patch newsletter. Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about what's happening in town.

But first, today's weather:

Mostly sunny and pleasant. High: 85 Low: 62.

Here are the top three stories today in Huntsville:

1. Huntsville City Councilman David Little is advocating for a strengthened Hands Free ordinance for the city, which would make driving and texting a primary offense. Many residents in Huntsville support the passage of the amended Hands Free ordinance, with one resident claiming to see distracted drivers every day. Another resident said they've almost been hit by drivers who were looking at their phones. The city council may vote on this ordinance at its next meeting on Sep. 28. If it passes, it will go into effect on Jan. 1, 2024. (WAAY)
2. According to the Huntsville Police Department, a shooting on Monday, Sep. 18 left one person injured. The incident occurred on Chaney Place Drive, and officers responded to a shooting call at 10:15 p.m. One person sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to a local hospital. Authorities say they believe the shooting was isolated, and officers are continuing to investigate. (WHNT)
3. The Von Braun Center's North Hall has been renamed as the Saturn Ballroom. The name was chosen to reflect the city's history with space missions. The Saturn Ballroom is one of eight venues at the facility, and according to Von Braun Center Executive Director Steve Maples, it is among the most frequently rented. The name change comes as renovations at the Von Braun Center are nearing their completion. Since 2021, the facility has received $12.5 million in upgrades, including new flooring, lighting, and audio systems, as well as updates to the center's bathrooms, meeting rooms, main lobby, and more. (Hville Blast)

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Today in Huntsville:

Wednesday, September 20

• Garden Care At Blevins Gap Nature Preserve (8:30 AM)
• Downtown Lunch Lounge Feat. Delaney Faulds At Courthouse Square (11:00 AM)
• Abstract Painting Workshop At The Camp (6:00 PM)

From our partner:

Do you know a teacher making a difference in Huntsville? Nominate them here for a Teacher Spotlight on Patch.

From my notebook:

• Several road improvement projects are underway in Huntsville, including projects for U.S. 72 East, Martin Road, and the Northern Bypass. Click here to learn more. (City of Huntsville, Alabama - Government via Facebook)
• This Saturday, Sep. 23, will be the last day this season to enjoy the city's splash pads. This includes the splash pads at Brahan Spring Park and Dr. Richard Showers, Sr. Recreation Center. (Huntsville Parks and Recreation via Facebook)
• The U.S. Space and Rocket Center is set to hold a job fair on Thursday, Sep. 21 from 11:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m. Click here for more information. (Huntsville/Madison County Chamber via Facebook)

Thanks for following along and staying informed. See you all tomorrow morning for another update!

— Joyce Nash

About me: Joyce is a freelance writer and poet whose work has appeared in the Hello Gloria newsletter and Nine Cloud Journal. Her background ranges from journalism to fitness instruction and spans the east coast to the West. In her free time, she enjoys reading, cooking, and spending time with her husband and two cats.