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ExploringNorthAlabamaGlorious scenery, outdooradventure are yours inthe Tennessee Valley

initiativesHuntsville/Madison County • Chamber of Commercef eaturescover storyo c t o b e r 2 0 0 4Exploring North AlabamaGlorious scenery, outdoor adventureare yours in the Tennessee ValleyPage 15Used with the courtesy of TheHuntsville Times. All rights reserved.Reprinted with permission.Huntsville/Madison County, Alabama is located in the middle of the southeasternUnited States, with more than four million people within a 100-mile radius. TheHuntsville community is the primary economic hub of the northern Alabama andsouthern Tennessee region. Huntsville/Madison County’s economy is known as one ofthe strongest in the South, with low unemployment, strong job growth and incomelevels leading the region. Businessgrowth and investment from U.S. andinternational companies have made itone of the country’s top “hot spots” forgrowing a business and raising a family.Best Things Do Come in Small Packages 07When Old Becomes New Again 09Lots to See & Do / Calendar 21It IS Rocket Science 27d evelopmentsEconomic Indicators 24Economy At-A-Glance 25Member Developments 29editorial staffPublisherExecutive EditorGraphic DesignerWritersBrian HilsonHolly McClainKristi SherrardHolly McClainGarrett SheehanPhotography provided by: Burritt on the Mountain,EarlyWorks Museums, Huntsville/Madison CountyBotanical Garden, Huntsville/Madison County Convention& Visitors Bureau, Land Trust of Huntsville/Madison County, Marshall Space Flight Center,Tennessee Valley Authority, The Huntsville Times,and the U.S. Space & Rocket Center/U.S. SPACE CAMPmissionThe mission of the Chamber of Commerce of Huntsville • Madison Countyis to prepare, develop and promote our community for economic growth.Permission to publish any part of Initiatives Review is hereby granted exclusivelyto any non-profit institution and to any publisher for broadcast or publication tothe general public. Credit “Initiatives Review, a Publication of the Chamber ofCommerce of Huntsville • Madison County.”contactChamber of CommerceHuntsville • Madison County225 Church StreetHuntsville, AL 35801256.535.2000on the webwww.HuntsvilleAlabamaUSA.comcorrectionOur apologies to Elcom, Inc. for omitting them in the Small BusinessAwards Businesses of the Year listing in the August issue ofInitiatives. Elcom, Inc. was one of the 2002 Businesses of the Year.Initiatives October 200403

Chamber of CommerceHuntsville • Madison CountyStaff 2004Brian Hilson, President & CEOHolly McClain, Communications DirectorLaura Kendrick, Executive Assistant to the PresidentEconomic DevelopmentEthan Hadley, Vice President, Economic DevelopmentSteve Finnell, Director,Industrial Development & Existing IndustryRick Davis, Director, Cummings Research ParkLillie Ben, Executive Marketing AssistantAmy Locke, Industrial Development AssistantGarrett Sheehan, Economic Development AssistantInvestor RelationsLoren Traylor, Vice President, Investor RelationsPat Jackson, Membership DirectorCheryl Schultz, Director,Small Business & Workforce DevelopmentDebra Dunbar, Launch Program DirectorDonna McCrary, Investor Relations AssistantLindsay Southard, Investor Relations Assistant/Resource Desk CoordinatorTerrie Ledbetter, Membership RepresentativeBeverly Carthen, Membership RepresentativeGovernmental AffairsMike Ward, Vice President, Governmental AffairsJay Snyder, BRAC Executive DirectorTina Leopold, Program AssistantResearch & Information ServicesKen Smith, Director, Research & Information ServicesKristi Sherrard, Publications/Graphic Design SpecialistHiroko Sedensky, Research AssistantJudith Short, Information Services AssistantCheryl Crowe, Resource Desk CoordinatorFinance & AdministrationKen Williams, Finance & Administration DirectorDesman Holt, Network AdministratorDora Heisey, Financial AssistantErica Gussie, Financial AssistantTom Burnette, Building ManagerAssociated Organizations & StaffLeadership Huntsville/Madison CountySarah Savage, Executive DirectorAllison Harbin, Leadership AssistantMary Stewart, Youth Leadership CoordinatorNortheast Alabama RegionalSmall Business Development CenterKenneth Scislaw, Director, SBDCCarrie Davis, Assistant Director, SBDCBrenda McBride, Procurement CounselorPatsy Nayman, Executive Secretary 1Felita Flores, Secretary 2SCOREHanson Howard, Executive DirectorChamber of CommerceHuntsville • Madison County225 Church StreetHuntsville, Alabama 35801(256) 535-200004October 2004 Initiativeswww.HuntsvilleAlabamaUSA.com

The Chamber of CommerceBoard of Directors andExecutive Committee 2004Executive CommitteeTommy Beason, ChairLTG James Link (Ret.), Chair-ElectHoward Thrailkill, Past ChairJoel Daves, SecretaryGail Wall, TreasurerBrad Jones, Vice Chair Economic DevelopmentJoe Ritch, Vice Chair Governmental AffairsDave Hargrove, Vice Chair Investor RelationsKaren Stanley, Vice Chair Small BusinessScott Seeley, Vice ChairResearch & Information ServicesJoe Austin, Vice Chair Workforce DevelopmentChairman Mike Gillespie, Chair-AppointedBill Gurley, Chair-AppointedMayor Loretta Spencer, Chair-AppointedIrma Tuder, Chair-AppointedBrian Hilson, President/CEOElected BoardTommy Beason, Beason & Nalley, Inc.Joe Alexander, Camber CorporationPete Apple, CSCJoe Austin, Huntsville HospitalScott Averbuch, Averbuch RealtyJohn Cooper, AvocentMarshall England, State FarmDick Fountain,Fountain, Parker, Harbarger & AssociatesDr. Greg Gum, Radiology AssociatesBill Gurley, SAICMichael Hall, DaimlerChrysler CorporationRichard Holloway, Timberlakes Developers, Inc.Tharon Honeycutt, WHNT-TVDr. Eric Janssen, SportsMedDonna Lamb, Lamb Commercial ServicesMillie Marshall, Toyota Motor Manufacturing-ALJerre Penney, Bill Penney ToyotaJoe Ritch, Sirote & PermuttRemigius Shatas, Rymic Systems, Inc.Sandra Steele, Enfinger Development, Inc.Paula Steigerwald, Huntsville Botanical GardenGerald Toland, Redstone Federal Credit UnionIrma Tuder, Analytical Services, Inc.Johnnie Vann, Lanier Ford Shaver & PayneBill Watson, SouthTrust BankJean Wessel-Templeton, Wesfam/Burger KingPeri Widener, The Boeing CompanyKeith Wilson, Wyle LaboratoriesTom Young, Intergraph CorporationA Message from the PresidentDear Chamber of Commerce Investors, Community Leaders and Friends:I had the recent pleasure of a conversation with a gentleman who took a transfer toHuntsville from St. Louis. His praise for the quality of life in the Tennessee Valley waseffusive. The friendliness of our residents – from the checkout person at the grocery storeto fellow workers – delighted him. He joked a bit, asking if the hospitality characteristicof his new home was “something in the water or in the air,” especially since numerousresidents are from different parts of the country and the world.Well, maybe it is. Maybe it’s in the water of the Tennessee River or the eight sportinglakes in North Alabama. Maybe it’s in the cool mountain air of Monte Sano. Or maybegoodwill comes from being able to play golf almost year-round at world-class courses likethose on the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, at The Ledges or Cherokee Ridge. Perhapshospitality is born from the ambiance of an antebellum-rich historic district or in adowntown returning to prominence.Then again, could it be a residual effect – the spirit of camaraderie from a communitythat has always prided itself on special achievements, like helping put man on the moon?Could it be that friendliness results from great education opportunities? A vibrant artscommunity with excellent museums? Perhaps it’s the value of living in the Huntsvillearea, where average incomes are among the highest in the Southeast, while the cost ofliving is among the lowest.By whatever means, including the excellent business and career opportunities Huntsville/Madison County is renowned for (we were ranked eighth in the nation by Forbes thisyear), our community is a great place to live and we’re proud to market Huntsville/Madison County to the world. We hope you enjoy this issue of Initiatives as it salutesmany of the amenities we enjoy in North Alabama and the Tennessee Valley.Brian HilsonPresident & CEOChamber of Commerce of Huntsville/Madison CountyInitiatives October 200405

Great Things Do Comein Small PackagesAmenities abound in the Tennessee ValleyHuntsville lacksin size it makes up“Whatfor in brains: 31% ofthe population has a college degree(U.S. average, 24%),” noted ForbesMagazine in May 2004 when itranked Huntsville, Ala., numbereight in its sixth annual survey ofBest Places for Business andCareers. “We have a wealth of talentand labor availability in Huntsville/Madison County that is consistentlyone of our best selling points foreconomic development,” notedBrian Hilson, president of theChamber of Commerce of Huntsville/MadisonCounty. Of the top tenranked cities, Huntsville, with thesecond largest research park in thenation and the fourth largest in theworld, had the smallest population.The singular, high-tech job opportunitiesafforded by federal space anddefense agencies and the corporationssupporting them – such as TheBoeing Company, Lockheed-Martin,SAIC and a plethora of others –attract highly trained and educatedpeople from around the corner, thecountry and the world. A major influenceencouraging this wealth oftalent to stay, however, goes beyondprofessional growth. It’s the qualityof life in the Tennessee Valley thatcauses house-hunters to becomehome-sweet-home dwellers.“Once we develop or bring innew businesses, we want to makecertain they stay,” said Hilson. “TheHuntsville area offers tremendousbenefits to those who establish andgrow their businesses here, includingour geographic location, cost ofliving, arts organizations, downtownredevelopment efforts, responsivegovernment, education opportunities,and teamwork from communityleaders who make certain that ourquality of life features are preserved.It’s a truly complete package thatHuntsville/Madison County offers.The community’s ability to remain aleading economic driver for the statewill be a result of people workingtogether to continually create thatcomplete package. That’s reassuring,because teamwork is somethingHuntsville has done well fordecades.”This edition of Initiatives isdedicated to life in the TennesseeValley: arts and entertainment, theoutdoors, learning opportunities,and simply some of the things thatmake living here special. Emphasisis on the word some as it would takea much larger publication to includethe many benefits of life inHuntsville/Madison County.Initiatives October 200407

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“My job in the television industry brought me to Huntsville.This was supposed to be a town where I gained some experiencefor two or three years and then moved on to a bigger city. Thatwas 13 years ago. Huntsville is a warm, friendly town that offersa wealth of variety for young families like mine. My husband andI love the fact that we can take our young children to museums,attend major sporting events and even see Broadway plays. Withgreat schools, a community-oriented atmosphere and an incredible”climate, we can't imagine raising our children anywhere else.– Cindi Williamsona “thirty-something” Huntsville residentformerly of Chicago and NashvilleInitiatives October 200409

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When Old BecomesNew AgainThe heart of Huntsville gains lively beat301 EastHuntsville canprovide unique opportunitiesfor restaurant, enter-“Downtowntainment and retail establishments thatcannot be found anywhere else in the city.”Check.“Young, high-tech workers thinkHuntsville is limited in its entertainmentofferings and its housing options.”Check.“Downtown Huntsville is one of theareas where much higher density developmentcan take place from the standpointof both economic restructuringand design that fit into downtown’shistoric context.”Check, check and double check.Smart growth and steps toward amore livable community are breathingnew life into Huntsville’s historicdowntown. Among projects, the old 12-story Times Building on Holmes Avenueis being renovated – floors three throughseven plus the basement – to createoffices and possibly space for restaurantsor a bar. Just down the street is the OldeTowne Brewing Co., which recentlyunveiled its first batch of beer. Already,Cityscapes LLC has completelyrenovated the Terry-Hutchens Buildingon Jefferson Street and created newdowntown housing by converting thestructure to condominiums. Accordingto Ralph Gipson, president of City-Scapes, the organization’s redevelopmentof Washington Square – which providedspace for three distinct restaurantsincluding Humphrey’s Bar & Grill,Pauli’s Chophouse and Cotton Row –has brought more people downtown.“With what CityScapes has done, andwith other entities coming downtown,like Sammy T’s, and Paudous Greekrestaurant on the square, we have two tothree thousand coming downtownduring the weekend rather than the twoto three hundred we saw a couple ofyears ago.” Gipson remarked thatCityScapes is looking at additionaldowntown club venues.New construction is also comingonline to create population density. Sitepreparation has begun on ThorntonProperties’ $10 million luxury condominiumproject at Holmes Avenue andGreen Street. Derek Thornton, presidentof the company, commented, “In theredevelopment of downtown, thecurrent thinking is to incorporate multistory,multi-use building. This results ingreater population density, thus increasingthe "purchasing power" of a concentratedarea.” Thornton believes suchpurchasing power encourages increaseddemand for premium services, therebyproviding new, financially viable opportunitiesfor purveyors of specializedgoods and services. He also added thatthe centralized city planning approach isappealing to the young professionalworkers city leaders hope to attract to thearea. Thornton’s project, 301 East, willhave 26 units with occupancy anticipatedin about 14 - 16 months. It’s thefirst development project of HuntsvillebasedThornton Properties LLC, whichis owned by Steve and Judy Thornton.Steve Thornton is co-founder of AvocentCorp.William Stroud of Triad Properties,representing the Big Spring Summitoffice tower project in Big Spring Park atChurch and Monroe Streets, hopes tobreak ground in October on the eightstoryoffice building which also includesa restaurant and coffee shop on the firstfloor. “We’ll begin preliminary study inNovember for a second phase that willinclude a residential component, somecontinued on page 13Initiatives October 200411

continued from page 1140 to 60 condominiums,” addedStroud. Furthermore, the new 300-room Embassy Suites, to be builtadjacent to the Von Braun Center,is expected to be completed byDecember of 2005 or early 2006.Plans call for a 1,100-foot canal toconnect Big Spring Lagoon withPinhook Creek, providing a picturesquewaterway and sidewalks toaccommodate downtown visitorsand hotel guests between the hotel,the South Hall of the Von BraunCenter and Big Spring Park.Rendering of Phase I of the Big Spring Summit office buildingBrandon BooneOccupation:Public Relations, NASABrandon Boone never expected to live in the South, let alone Huntsville,Alabama. Brought here by his public relations work for NASA, he’s calledHuntsville home for more than three years. Of Huntsville, Boone said, “I likethat it has the feeling of a newer city and it’s growing.”Born and raised just outside of Seattle, Boone is a self-proclaimed citylover. He enjoys the urban lifestyle with everything within walking distance.He also favors locations where there is great cultural diversity. Coming fromSeattle it was a “little scary” coming to what he perceived as a little southerntown. But to his surprise, he noted that he has found Huntsville to have manyof the attributes he prefers. That’s not to say Brandon sees Huntsville thesame as Seattle, or any of his other favorite cities including Salt Lake City, LasVegas or Miami. “Huntsville has some large city amenities, but it has a smalltown feel. The city isn’t changing so rapidly that you still can’t recognize itsface. It’s still Huntsville, Alabama.”Boone is part of the elusive group described as young professionals. He’s26, single, and living an active lifestyle. He defines active as going out to eatat restaurants, grabbing a drink with friends and enjoying the park – thingsyou find in big cities. These are also the things Boone has found in thedowntown Huntsville area. Brandon admits there could be more, but rightnow it’s enough for him to live a very satisfying lifestyle.Importantly, others seem to be recognizing an emerging downtownlifestyle, as well. “The bars, restaurants and parks are only as fun as thepeople who come and use them. In my three years of living in Huntsville, I’veseen increasing numbers of people coming downtown.” For the young publicrelations professional, more people going out has correlated with downtownHuntsville being more fun. Boone says the growing downtown is critical toHuntsville becoming a city that appeals to people his age.Molly HooperOccupation:Community ResourceDirector, Atria AssistedLivingMolly Hooper is a Huntsville native, but for the past several yearsshe’s lived in Birmingham, partly because she thought it offered a betterquality of life. Well, she’s moved back to Huntsville and believes thingshave changed.What is it that now makes Huntsville different to Hooper? She says abeautiful, historic downtown has been complemented by restaurants,night spots and, simply put, things to do. For her it’s, “dinner at Pauli’s anda walk downtown.” Something, Hooper says, you couldn’t do years ago.“I’ve also found that I’m not the only one who moved away and then cameback.”At age 26, Hooper noted, “I like the fact that it’s beautiful, that I haveclose friends. I think it’s neat that my father went to the same high schoolas I did.” Hooper also especially enjoys some of Huntsville’s other citycenters like Five Points. “I think it’s charming when they have artshowings.”Since she’s been home she’s been working with the group HuntsvilleYoung Professionals (HYP). She’s been impressed by the turnout for thefirst group events. “It makes a statement that there are young professionalshere who want to be part of growing this city.” She’s satisfied to be ableto be making a difference in her hometown.It’s been several months since she returned to Huntsville and Hooperis having a great time, but she does see a need for “more” in Huntsville.Hooper wants Huntsville to be a place people talk about – a place wherekids coming out of high school and college want to stay. “I think what weare doing is really high quality, but there is a need for more.” And sheplans on being a part of it.Initiatives October 200413

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Exploring North AlabamaGlorious scenery, outdoor adventureare yours in the Tennessee ValleyAlabama has incrediblehiking and biking trails,“Northalong with eight of the mostbeautiful lakes in the Southeast. It’s aMecca for outdoor enthusiasts, plusthere are over 100 tourism destinations,”commented Dana Lee Tatum, presidentand chief executive officer of the NorthAlabama Tourism Association. “Pictureperfect North Alabama has been our taglinefor years: There’s been no reason tochange it because it’s as true today as itwas twenty years ago,” affirmed the tourismexecutive.One organization that works to ensurethe ongoing scenic beauty of NorthAlabama for future generations is TheLand Trust of Huntsville & North Alabama.Incorporated in 1987 as Alabama’sfirst land trust, the group is responsiblefor protecting over 3,300 acres valued atover $9 million. Land Trust volunteersmaintain two major mountain preservesand almost 20 miles of public trails.“The natural beauty of NorthAlabama contributes significantly tothe decision process when companiesor families consider relocation,”confirmed Jill Gardner, executivedirector of The Land Trust. The missionof the organization is to preserveNorth Alabama scenic vistas,critical wetlands and green corridorswhich define this area of the South andmake it so attractive. Succinctly, Gardnerbelieves a healthy North Alabamaeconomy and quality of life are directlyrelated to a healthy natural environment.Land Trust and state park propertiesmeet on Monte Sano (Italian for‘mountain of health’), much to the delightof area mountain bikers. Mary AnneZollar, a writer with The HuntsvilleTimes, is an avid biker. “The dozens ofmountain bike trails on Monte Sanostrung together would make more than50 miles of terrain so varied you couldtake anyone – from tenderfoot beginnersto hard-core extreme bikers – for afantastic ride that will keep them comingback for more.”“Monte Sano has everything frombeautiful woodlands to waterfalls,” enthusedfellow Times employee andmountain biker Eric Schultz. Zollar wenton to say besides trails at Monte SanoState Park and on Land Trust property,“Surrounding Madison County boastsmany more miles of pristine woods forchallenging mountain biking not to befound for 100 miles in any direction.”Schultz particularly noted WadeMountain and Wheeler Wildlife Refuge.“In other words,” said Schultz, “there areplenty of places to ride mountain bikesaround the Tennessee Valley.”“I think part of the reason otherscome to ride here is the support ofmountain bikers, as well as other cyclistshere in Huntsville,” reflected Schultz.“The Spring City Cycling Club,www.springcity.org, is a wonderfuladvocacy group for local cyclists – bothroadies and mountain bikers. There arealways riders looking for someone else toride with. It’s not unusual to see anexperienced cyclist taking a novice for aride and showing them the trails.”Schultz added the group is also greatabout maintaining, marking and creatingnew trails.Hiking, whether on mountain trailsor on downtown city sidewalks, isanother passionate pastime for residentsand visitors alike. Land Trust and statepark trails take hikers through a varietyof terrain while hikes through downtownoffer another type of diversion. TheHuntsville/Madison County Conventionand Visitors Bureau offers a map forthose seeking architectural treasuresthrough the city’s historic districts(Huntsville is home to Alabama’s largestantebellum district) while the Historiccontinued on page 16Photo by Rob Robbins

continued from page 15Huntsville Foundation provides additional informationabout the area’s built heritage.Some outdoor adventurers in Madison Countyand North Alabama gravitate toward enclosedspaces. Underground streams and rivers dating toprehistoric times have carved their paths throughlimestone rock in this region, creating caves andcaverns. The headquarters of the National SpeleologicalSociety is located in Huntsville, given thenumber of caving opportunities in the surroundingarea. The areas where Tennessee, Alabama andGeorgia meet are collectively referred to as TAG bycaving enthusiasts. For those cavers lucky enoughto live in this area, every weekend offers an opportunityfor exploration and fun.Some of the biggest bass in the world comefrom North Alabama. According to an articleoffered by the North Alabama Tourism Association,anglers consistently catch Smallmouth Bassfrom the Tennessee River that weigh between 4and 6 pounds each. Wheeler Lake, LakeGuntersville – a favorite tournament location –Pickwick Lake and Wilson Lake regularly rankamong the top fishing lakes in the B.A.I.T. (BassAnglers Information Team) survey for numberand size of fish. Weiss Lake, in the northeasterncorner of Alabama, has held the title of “CrappieCapital of the World” for years. According to thearticle, out-of-state anglers buy more licenses atWeiss Lake than at any other body of water inAlabama.North Alabama’s Eight Sporting LakesBear Creek LakesComposed of four lakes each with its owndistinct personality. The lakes are stockedwith a variety of fish including largemouth,smallmouth and spotted bass; crappie; andcatfish.Lake GuntersvilleAlabama's largest lake at 69,000 acreswith more than 900 miles of shoreline.Noted as an excellent bass lake and resortarea.H. Neely Henry LakeMade up of 11,200 acres of rippling bluewaters and 339 miles of shoreline. Fish forlargemouth, smallmouth and spotted bass, aswell as catfish.Lewis Smith LakeHolder of five previous World Recordspotted bass catches and highly rated in thestate as a trophy saltwater striped bassfishery. The current lake record is 45 lbs. A~ provided by the North Alabama Tourism Associationdeep, clear lake with feeder streams, baysand sloughs. Rainbow trout fishery is locatedon the Sipsey Fork.Pickwick LakeOne of the South's best trophy smallmouthlakes and popular for crappie andcatfish.Weiss LakeA 30,200-acre lake offering 447 miles ofshoreline. Known as “The Crappie Capital ofthe World.”Wheeler LakeA 65,000-acre reservoir on the TennesseeRiver. Offers diverse sports fishing with largemouth,smallmouth and spotted bass; crappie,hybrids, bluegill, and channel catfish.Wilson LakeProvides great bass, crappie and catfishfishing because of its underwater points,gravel beds, rocky points and sand bars.The Tennessee River is also a great place for waterskiers who can skim the surface for miles withouthaving to turn their boats. For those who enjoycruising on houseboats, yachts or luxurious motorboats,the river stretches from one side of the state to theother, providing miles of picturesque shoreline.Lake Guntersville ~ courtesy of Tennessee Valley AuthorityFor a variety of hunters, North Alabama is paradise.Turkey, whitetail deer, mourning dove and waterfowlprovide hours of excitement and relaxation. TheWheeler National Wildlife Refuge and the nearbyBankhead National Forest offer excellent open permit,public land for hunting (during appropriate seasons andwith permits where required). The Alabama Departmentof Conservation and Natural Resources, Game & FishDivision at (334) 242-3829, can provide additionalinformation about hunting areas, or you can go towww.outdooralabama.com/hunting/land/wildlifeareas.Additional links from this Web site answerquestions about license fees, requirements and statehunting regulations.North Alabama State ParksCathedral Caverns State ParkOff U.S. 72 near Grant; (256) 728-8193Cathedral Caverns, 40 minutes east of Huntsville, contains widechambers, an impressive stalagmite “forest” & a massive 60 foottallcolumn with a girth of 200 feet. Fossils of sealife estimated at220 million years old dot the walls.Desoto State ParkCounty Rd. 89, 8 miles NE of Fort Payne; (256) 845-0051Lodge, modern and rustic cabins, motel, full service restaurant.Modern campground, primitive camping, nature center andprograms, hiking and biking trails, boardwalk trail, picnic and playareas, Olympic size pool (in season), waterfalls and wildflowers,boating and fishing areas. Located atop Lookout Mountain withinLittle River Canyon National Preserve and near DeSoto Falls. Openyear round. Many facilities are ADA accessible.Joe Wheeler State Park4401 McLean Dr., Off Hwy. 72, Rogersville(256) 247-5461A 2,500-acre park on Wheeler Lake offering a striking three-continued on page 19The Land Trust of Huntsville& North AlabamaOutreach program activities include spring and fall hike series,the annual “Kidz Hike” for ages 4 -12 and their parents, summertours of historic Three Caves Quarry, trail maintenance andconservation education, speaker’s bureau and volunteer opportunities.Major fund raising events are the Emerald Classic GolfTournament at The Ledges, the popular “Moon Over ThreeCaves Dance,” and Auburn/Alabama football ticket raffle.907 Franklin Street, Huntsville, Alabama 35801www.landtrust-hsv.org 256/534-6263 (LAND)16October 2004 InitiativesInitiatives October 200417

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continued from page 17story lodge of redwood and stone on theshores of Wheeler Lake; 75 hotel rooms;restaurant; convention facilities, 134-slipmarina; 18-hole golf course withclubhouse; campground; cabins; tennis;boat launch; swimming; picnicking;hiking; dining; banquet facilities; boatrentals; 30 person group lodge; andpavilions in day use area. This park isdivided into three separate areas innorthwest Alabama.Lake Guntersville State Park,Lodge & Convention Center7966 AL Hwy. 227, Guntersville;(256) 571-5440A 5,909-acre park located along theshore of magnificent Lake Guntersvilleoffering swimming, boating, tennis, 18-hole golf course, hiking, nature center,cottages, and campground. The lodge,chalets, motel and convention center aresituated on a 500-foot bluff overlookingLake Guntersville. Lake GuntersvilleState Park is the home of the EagleAwareness Program. Note: GuntersvilleState Park Hotel and restaurant arecurrently closed for renovations – otherfacilities remain open.Monte Sano State Park5105 Nolen Ave., Huntsville(256) 534-3757A 2,140-acre resort atop Monte SanoMountain with scenic views, camping,newly refurbished cottages, picnic areas,and hiking. The mountain towers about1,000 feet higher than the eastern edgeof downtown Huntsville. Monte SanoState Park Lodge is now open for familyreunions, weddings, receptions, andsmall business group meetings.Initiatives October 200419

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Lots to See & Doin Huntsville/Madison CountyTourism is on the rise, the lodging tax is up—proof morepeople are coming into the region. New hotels, restaurants,golf courses and entertainment venues are beingbuilt. “We like to say you can see about twenty destinationson one tank of gasoline. We’re a short drive from everywhere,”said Dana Lee Tatum, chief executive for the North AlabamaTourism Association. Judy Ryals, president and CEO of theHuntsville/Madison County Convention and Visitors Bureau(CVB), noted the economic impact of the local tourism industryis in excess of $500 million.The location of Huntsville/Madison County, just off ofInterstate 65/565, means the area has long made a good stopfor road weary travelers, but increasing numbers of out-oftownersare stopping for specific events and attractions. TheHuntsville/Madison County CVB provides one-stop shoppingfor tour, meeting and convention planners. “One of the mostexciting changes for the CVB this year was the new 2,400square foot visitor center, complete with exhibits, displays,colorful banners and a friendly staff to greet visitors seven daysa week. The goal was to have visibility, accessibility and designatedparking – this new facility meets our needs.” The newvisitor center is immediately accessible to I-565 and downtownHuntsville. The CVB also provides an on-line resource forthings to do, places to see and information on how theHuntsville/ Madison County Convention & Visitors Bureaucan facilitate group and individual itineraries, atwww.huntsville.org.Many of the area’s cultural attractions are primarily supportedby local residents, with special events providing some draw for awider geographic area. The Arts Council (TAC) produces,promotes, coordinates and advances the arts to enrich the qualityof life, economic development and education of the greaterHuntsville/Madison County community. Core programs includeproviding resources and support to arts educators, and workingto strengthen K-12 education through the arts; Concerts in thePark, a series of free summer concerts in Big Spring Park coproducedwith the City of Huntsville; facilitating the work ofmember arts organizations through grants, technical assistanceworkshops, networking and information sharing; and Panoply,an annual three-day outdoor festival in downtown Huntsville’sBig Spring Park featuring performances, exhibits, arts demonstrationsand hands-on activities the last full weekend of April.More information on TAC, its member organizations andcommunity calendar can be found at www.artshuntsville.org.If you’re in the mood for something to do, peruse theadjacent, partial listing of activities in Huntsville/MadisonCounty. Additional information may be found atwww.huntsville.org, www.northalabama.org and/orwww.artshuntsville.org.C A L E N D A ROctober 1-31Spooktacular Science at Sci-Quest(Huntsville) 102-D Wynn Dr., just off I-565 A monthlongcelebration of science with a Halloween twist.Programs for children of all ages and a “spooktacular”Halloween party at the end of the month.The Great Mountain Fest(Huntsville) Burritt on the Mountain – Month-long celebrationfeaturing different themed events each week,including County Fair Week, Harvest Week, IndianHeritage Week, and The Great Pumpkin Patch Week.October 224th Annual Madison Street Festival(Madison) Event starts with a parade of local organizations,schools and civic leaders and concludes with astreet dance. There is also entertainment on four differentstages, food, a children’s area, and demonstrationsand crafts booths.6th Annual Hispanic Community Festival(Huntsville) Sponsored by the Alabama HispanicAssociation, featuring artists and music from variousHispanic countries, hand-crafts and food will be available.Kids activities include face painting, clown, piñatabreaking and other games.Harvest Herb Fair(Huntsville) The Huntsville Herb Society shares the harvestfrom their herb beds and from the “world’s largestpepper garden.” You will find herbal products for yourkitchen, bath, home, garden, and pets; and there willbe herbal demonstrations all day. It’s a great place tostock your pantry and start your holiday gift shopping.There is plenty of parking and admission is free.November 7 - January 23Fashion in Film(Huntsville) Huntsville Museum of Art – The eleganceof Hollywood comes to the museum this fall with theexhibition Fashion in Film: Period Costumes for theScreen. Movie lovers won’t want to miss this opportunityto see 35 costumes from recent major motionpictures including Titanic, Evita, Out of Africa, Pride andPrejudice, and Gosford Park. Dates subject to change,call before scheduling.calendar continued on page 23Initiatives October 200421

continued from page 21November 15 - December 31Galaxy of Lights(Huntsville) Huntsville Botanical Garden – NorthAlabama’s biggest holiday light extravaganza. Animatedholiday light displays, nursery rhymes, botanicals andmore. Walking tours week before Thanksgiving; drivingtours Thanksgiving through New Year’s Day.November 26 - December 26Santa’s Village(Huntsville) 109 Gates Avenue – Visit the village Santacalls home! Enjoy tours of Santa’s Toy Shop, Mrs.Claus’ Kitchen, the Reindeer Corral and Santa’s VillagePost Office. Crafts, cookies, lights and more delightyoung and old alike.December 4Christmas Open House &Candlelight Christmas(Huntsville) Open House is free; admission charged toCandlelight Christmas at Burritt on the Mountain. SeeBurritt’s Mansion (10 a.m.-4 p.m.) and other historic buildings.From 5-8 p.m., take a candlelight tour of the site,visit with Santa and enjoy entertainment, hot cider, treats.December 9-11Holiday Magic on the Mountain(Huntsville) Burritt on the Mountain – Savor holidaydinners in the mansion and log houses or the churchfor large groups. Enjoy musical entertainment, guidesin historic costume, carolers and a visit by Saint Nick.Reservations required.December 10-12Huntsville Ballet’s 36th AnnualProduction of “The Nutcracker”(Huntsville) VBC Concert Hall – The holidays are notcomplete without this magical and exciting production.Tchaikovsky’s score will be played by the HuntsvilleSymphony Orchestra.December 11Weeden House Spirit of ChristmasPast Home Tours & Luminaries(Huntsville) Glimpse five homes adorned for theholidays, including the Weeden House.Initiatives October 200423

Economic IndicatorsPOPULATION Madison City of City of HuntsvilleCounty Huntsville Madison Metro Area1980 Census 196,966 145,604 6,081 242,9711990 Census 238,912 161,842 16,813 293,0472000 Census 276,700 158,216 29,329 342,3762003 Estimate 289,662 164,237 *34,080 357,907% Growth 1980-2003 47.1% 12.8% 560.4% 47.3%Households1980 Census 67,082 51,113 2,040 82,4401990 Census 91,208 63,838 6,681 110,8932000 Census 109,955 66,742 11,143 134,6432003 Estimate 114,811 68,070 *13,175 140,703% Growth 1980-2003 71.2% 33.2% 545.8% 70.7%Race2003 Population Estimate 281,117 159,636 *34,260 355,488White 70.8% 63.3% 77.8% 73.2%Black 23.7% 31.0% 14.8% 21.7%Asian & Pacific Islander 2.0% 2.3% 3.7% 1.7%Other Races 3.6% 3.4% 3.8% 3.5%Income & AgeAverage Household Income $63,021 $61,025 $77,962 $60,858Median Household Income $48,301 $48,324 $66,509 $46,754Per Capita Income $25,450 $26,384 $29,896 $24,362Median Age 36.5 38.3 34.9 36.6RETAIL SALESHuntsville Region - (000’s)2002 Annual Retail SalesSource: ESRI Business Information Solutions, 2003; U.S. Census Bureau (www.census.gov)* City of Madison estimate comes from City of MadisonTotalRetail SalesFood &RestaurantsFurniture &MerchandiseAutomotiveMadison Co. $3,910,205 $736,594 $908,076 $978,414Limestone Co. $619,484 $141,111 $131,142 $132,976Jackson Co. $468,707 $117,990 $102,509 $89,452Marshall Co. $1,242,376 $164,795 $229,099 $579,074Morgan Co. $1,448,374 $287,895 $258,605 $419,366Lawrence Co. $245,369 $58,321 $38,133 $32,547Giles Co. (TN) $278,739 $56,429 $32,025 $84,589Lincoln Co. (TN) $300,730 $50,192 $65,715 $94,805Franklin Co. (TN) $311,996 $102,760 $60,773 $54,711Regional Total $8,825,980 $1,716,087 $1,826,077 $2,465,934Source: Sales & Marketing Management, 2003 Survey of Buying Power — Printed with permission.EMPLOYMENT*Huntsville Metro Area** JULY 2004 JULY 2003Total Non-ag Employment .......................................................... 190,100 186,600Mining & Construction .................................................................... 7,700 7,300Manufacturing .............................................................................. 29,900 30,000Trade, Transportation & Utilities .................................................... 30,900 30,000Information ...................................................................................... 2,200 2,300Financial Activity ............................................................................ 5,900 5,900Professional & Business Services ................................................ 37,700 36,100Education & Health Services ........................................................ 11,600 12,400Leisure & Hospitality...................................................................... 16,300 15,800Other Services ................................................................................ 7,600 7,300Government .................................................................................. 40,300 39,500LABOR FORCE** Based on place of employment. **Includes Madison & Limestone countiesSource: Alabama Department of Industrial Relations (Place of work figures)Huntsville Region (Counties) JULY 2004 JULY 2003Madison ......................................................................................155,150 151,580Limestone...................................................................................... 33,490 32,930Jackson ........................................................................................ 25,610 25,430Marshall ........................................................................................ 38,690 39,530Morgan .......................................................................................... 55,040 55,610Franklin, TN .................................................................................. 20,910 20,460Giles, TN........................................................................................ 15,360 15,840Lincoln, TN .................................................................................... 15,140 14,840Huntsville Regional Total ........................................................ 359,390 356,220* Based on place of residence.Source: Alabama Department of Industrial Relations, Tennessee Department of Employment SecurityUNEMPLOYMENT RATE* JULY 2004 JULY 2003Huntsville Metropolitan Area............................................................ 4.9% 4.9%Madison County .............................................................................. 4.7% 4.6%Huntsville Region ............................................................................ 5.5% 6.0%Alabama .......................................................................................... 5.8% 6.0%United States .................................................................................. 5.7% 6.3%* Based on place of residence.Source: Alabama Department of Industrial Relations (www.dir.state.al.us)Tennessee Department of Employment Security (www.state.tn.us/labor-wfd)COST OF LIVING INDEX2nd QTR 2004 Composite Grocery Trans- Health Goods &Index Items Housing Utilities portation Care ServicesAtlanta, GA 97.4 97.6 92.3 89.0 103.6 103.6 101.4Dallas, TX 95.5 91.1 85.2 99.8 102.4 102.8 102.4CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITY JAN-JULY 2004 JAN-JULY 2003# of Square # of SquareProjects Feet $ Value Projects Feet $ ValueTotal Const. Contracts .................. 1,180 4,396,000 $352,785,000 983 3,653,000 $247,561,000Commercial ........................................ 65 578,000 $41,048,000 75 642,000 $39,331,000Huntsville, AL 91.6 103.0 73.1 93.9 102.1 94.4 99.6Orlando, FL 98.9 99.5 89.2 98.3 100.7 94.3 107.3St. Louis, MO 100.3 98.9 94.8 97.9 95.7 100.8 107.2Washington, D.C. 138.9 111.8 193.6 110.7 124.7 123.8 114.7Manufacturing ...................................... 5 146,000 $11,696,000 10 67,000 $4,193,000Source: American Chamber of Commerce Researchers Association. (www.accra.org)Single Family .................................... 961 2,055,000 $78,015,000 751 1,606,000 $61,269,000Multi-Family ........................................ 14 546,000 $46,356,000 37 475,000 $22,375,000HOME SALESJULY 2004 JULY 2003Source: F.W. Dodge — Printed with permission.Houses on Market.............................................................................. 1,862 3,571Houses Sold ......................................................................................... 566 718CONSUMER PRICE INDEX JULY 2004 JULY 2003Index % Change Index % ChangeAll Urban Consumers 03-04 02-03United States...............................................................189.4 3.0% 183.9 2.1%South Region...............................................................182.6 3.0% 177.3 2.1%Houses Sold Year-to date ................................................................. 4,745 4,021Avg. Selling Price.......................................................................... $138,910 $131,037Avg. Days on Market.............................................................................. 99 108Median Sales Price........................................................................$135,000 $121,284Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Atlanta, GA., December 1982=100 base. (http://stats.bls.gov/cpihome.htm)Source: Huntsville Area Association of REALTORS (Realtor-listed properties only)24October 2004 Initiatives

Economy At-A-GlanceHuntsville/Madison County, Alabama, islocated in the middle of the southeasternUnited States with more than fourmillion people within a 100-mile radius.The Huntsville community serves asthe primary economic hub of thenorth Alabama and southern Tennesseeregions. The counties adjoiningMadison County combine to form aneight-county regional market with apopulation totaling 700,000 people.The Huntsville/Madison Countyeconomy is known as one of the strongesteconomies in the South, with low unemployment,strong job growth andincome levels leading the region.Business growth and investment fromU.S. and international companies havemade Huntsville/Madison County one ofthe country’s top “hot spots” forgrowing a business and raising a family.LEADING EMPLOYERSU.S. Army/Redstone Arsenal . . . . . . . . . . .11,141Huntsville Hospital System . . . . . . . . . . . . .4,355Huntsville City Schools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3,000The Boeing Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2,800CINRAM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2,800NASA Marshall Space Flight Center . . . . . .2,754Siemens VDO Automotive Corp. . . . . . . . . .2,300City of Huntsville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2,186Madison County Schools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1,936Intergraph Corporation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1,750ADTRAN, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1,700Sanmina-SCI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1,700Walmart/Sam s Stores . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1,581Northrop Grumman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1,350Teledyne Brown Engineering . . . . . . . . . . . .1,338Lockheed Martin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1,250Computer Sciences Corporation . . . . . . . . .1,200University of Alabama in Huntsville . . . . . . .1,112West Corporation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1,100SAIC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1,080Madison County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1,073Benchmark Electronics, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 921Alabama A&M University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 890Jacobs Sverdrup Technology . . . . . . . . . . . . 800Target Distribution Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 750Crestwood Medical Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 668Madison City Schools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 644Engelhard Corporation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 600Dynetics, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 600Redstone Federal Credit Union . . . . . . . . . . . 575PPG Industries, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 550CAS, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 502Source: Chamber of CommerceAerospaceHuntsville/Madison County is home tothe NASA Marshall Space Flight Centerand has representation from nearlyevery major U.S. aerospace corporation,with more than 90 companies employingmore than 11,000 people in thelocal aerospace industry.DefenseHuntsville/Madison County plays a keyrole in the U.S. Army’s technologydevelopment programs. More than halfof the Army’s weapons procurementbudget is managed by Huntsville-basedoperations as are more than half of theArmy’s foreign weapons sales. More than25,000 people are directly employed bythe military and support contracts.ElectronicsMore than 300 international and domesticcorporations in Huntsville/MadisonCounty are involved in the design andproduction of electronics and computerrelatedtechnology, includingCINRAM, one of the world’s largestmanufacturers of DVD products.Research & TechnologyHuntsville’s Cummings Research Parkis the country’s second largest researchand technology park, containing220+ companies employing22,000 people involved in technologyresearch and development.ManufacturingHuntsville/Madison County’smanufacturing industry represents adiverse mix of technology assembly andproduction operations from bothdomestic and international corporations,comprising one-fourth of the localemployment base.Initiatives October 200425

26October 2004 Initiatives

The most valuable gift we can give a child is acareful education. This is where society has aprime obligation. To waste the time that a childhas to acquire knowledge is an outright sin.~Wernher von Braun, rocket scientistIt IS Rocket ScienceEducational Opportunities Aboundin Huntsville/Madison CountyIt takes many people to make a cityand many people to send man to themoon, but in Huntsville/MadisonCounty, it would be a disservice tooverlook the leadership of one man whowas so instrumental to both – Wernhervon Braun. Thanks to von Braun,Huntsville and the surrounding areaearned the name Rocket City USA andcommunity leaders carefully developedthe city/county infrastructure, culturaland arts institutions and educationalsystems necessary to grow an economyand enable a well-trained workforce infuture generations.Ed Buckbee, retired chief executive ofthe U.S. Space & Rocket Center/U.S.SPACE CAMP and the former publicrelations officer for von Braun, explained,“Von Braun was extremely focused on hisobjectives in space, but at the same time,his peripheral vision was sharp, too. TheSpace & Rocket Center is an example ofthat, as is The University of Alabama inHuntsville (UAH). Institutions like theCenter and UAH, he knew, could fosterand support his vision long after he wasgone.” Consequently, von Braun therocket scientist became von Braun thecommunity planner and even von Braunthe education guru.One small piece of von Braun’s legacy– a very special one that hastouched the lives of thousands ofchildren from around the world--lives on at the U.S. Space &Rocket Center (USSRC). U.S.SPACE CAMP was created in1982 from an idea von Braun had oftenvoiced to Buckbee. “He thought if therecould be football camps and cheerleadingcamps, why couldn’t there be a hands-onprogram for youngsters who wanted toreach for the stars,” related Buckbee. TheU.S. SPACE CAMP programs, featuringhands-on simulated space missions andunique educational activities over a fivedayperiod, grew to include children fromages ten through high school seniors, aswell as programs for adults, parents andchildren. A related program, AVIATIONCHALLENGE, was later developed andincorporates teamwork and leadershiptraining as it teaches the basics of flightand the discipline of our nation’s militaryservice.The USSRC – Alabama’s top paidtourist attraction – is also a destinationfor hundreds of school groups takingpart in the Ultimate Field Trip program,an exciting and educational day-tripcustomized to specific grade levels. TheCenter’s chief executive, Larry Capps,remarked that annual camp programs forSPACE CAMP trainees undergo a variety of simulationsincluding use of the Five Degrees of Freedom simulator(5DF). SPACE CAMPERers experience forward andbackward, side-to-side, roll, pitch, and yaw, whilelearning they can't quite overcome gravity! Childrenfrom across the world have come to Huntsvillesolely to experience U.S. SPACE CAMP.children with special challenges, such asthose with vision or hearing impairments,are also provided.“From the beginning, we knew asmall percentage of SPACE CAMPgraduates could well be the space flyersof tomorrow,” mused Buckbee, “but wealso knew that if students were given theproper motivation and learned why theymust have science and math, they coulduse that foundation and let it take theminto a field of their choice.”The USSRC is also the location of theannual Great Moonbuggy Race, typicallyheld in April and sponsored in part byNASA's Marshall Space Flight Center.Competition is in two divisions: highschool and college. Students are requiredto design a vehicle that addresses a seriesof engineering problems that are similarto problems faced by the originalMoonbuggy team. Each Moonbuggy ishuman powered and must carry twostudents, one female and one male, overa half-mile simulated lunar terrain coursecontinued on page 28Initiatives October 200427

continued from page 27including “craters,” rocks, “lava”ridges, inclines and “lunar” soil. Thetop three winning teams in eachdivision are those having the shortesttotal times in assembling theirmoonbuggies and traversing theterrain course.“I think it’s easy to say that theUSSRC envisioned by von Brauncontinues to be a place where youngsterscan both dream and do, andwhere the public at large can betterunderstand the technologies aroundthem.” commented Capps.The 11th Annual Great Moonbuggy Race was held in April 2004. As a part of the competition,and prior to course testing, the unassembled Moonbuggy entries were carried to thecourse with the unassembled components contained in a volume of 4'x 4'x 4' (dimensionrequirements similar to those for the original Lunar Roving Vehicle). At the starting line, theentries were assembled and prepared for course testing and safety evaluation.28October 2004 Initiatives

Member DevelopmentsComputer Troubleshooters is the largest on-site computer repair franchise in theworld. We specialize in preventive maintenance, repair, networking and Dell sales. Ask aboutour 25% off PM by calling (256) 652-6643.Curves is now in Hampton Cove. Camille Mueller, owner, celebrated the grand opening of hersecond Curves franchise in the Huntsville area. Come by & check out our new location at 6727US Hwy 431 S, or call us at (256) 533-9277.Ellen’s Creative Cakes has finally moved to Huntsville and can be found at 603 JordanLane. You are welcome to come by for some free samples. Goodies and cakes also are for salefor the desperate procrastinator to sweeten the day. Store hours are M-F 8-6 and Sat 8-12. Formore information call (256) 217-1517 or go to www.ellenscreativecakes.com.Executive Flight Center announces their grand opening as the new Fixed Base Operatorat the Madison County Executive Airport MDQ. Executive Flight Center provides full lineservices for corporate and private aircraft including jets. Flight training, charter services, andaircraft rental are also available. Call (256) 828-1403 or visit www.executiveflightcenter.com.Nowlin & Associates, LLC proudly announces the opening of a new location at 922-AMerchants Walk. The firm has more than 30 years experience in real estate closings. For assistancein residential and commercial real estate closings call (256) 536-8301.The Suburban Extended Stay Hotel in Huntsville offers premium accomodations,whether you stay a night or a year. All rooms include full kitchenettes, free high-speedInternet access, and free long distance. Rates start at $209 weekly. For more information callus at (256) 830-2500.Initiatives October 200429

30October 2004 Initiatives

PRSRT STDU.S. PostagePAIDPermit# 206Huntsville, AL