256 Today

Looking for something to do in North Alabama this week? From First Fridays in Florence and Huntsville Hospital’s 100 Years of Babies Celebration to the 9-1-1 Festival in Haleyville, there’s no shortage of live music, family fun and hometown traditions to enjoy.

Which event is on your calendar?

Read more at: https://256today.com/256-today-roundup-events-across-north-alabama-this-week/

If you haven't responded to the 2026 Census Test, a census worker could soon be knocking on your door.

Huntsville is one of just two metro areas selected for the test, which includes about 81,000 local households and will help shape planning for the 2030 Census.

Read more at: https://256today.com/knock-knock-huntsville-the-census-bureau-may-be-at-your-door-next/

Every teacher candidate at the University of North Alabama passed the edTPA on their first attempt during the 2025-26 academic year, with all 152 students exceeding state requirements.

The milestone follows another recent achievement for UNA, where nursing graduates posted the program’s first-ever 100 percent first-time NCLEX pass rate.

Read more at: https://256today.com/una-teacher-candidates-post-perfect-pass-rate-on-edtpa/

Huntsville-based Torch Technologies has been named to Inc. Magazine 2026 Best Workplaces list, earning recognition in the Government Services category.

Company leaders credit Torch’s 100% employee-owned structure for fostering a culture of collaboration, growth and long-term success.

Read more at: https://256today.com/torch-technologies-named-to-inc-s-2026-best-workplaces-list/

A new 154-room AC Hotel by Marriott Hotels is planned for Bridge Street Town Centre Huntsville with construction expected to begin soon and an opening targeted for 2028.

Developers say Huntsville’s growth in defense, aerospace and technology industries continues to drive demand for upscale hotels near Cummings Research Park and Redstone Arsenal.

Read more at: https://256today.com/new-marriott-hotel-coming-to-one-of-huntsvilles-fastest-growing-corridors/

Best hiking trails in North Alabama?

Brig. Gen. Jason Jefferis has assumed command of the U.S. Army Security Assistance Command at Redstone Arsenal.

The command supports more than 133 nations and plays a key role in strengthening U.S. partnerships around the world.

Read more at: https://256today.com/jefferis-takes-command-of-usasac-at-redstone-arsenal/

Researchers at The University of Alabama in Huntsville are helping NASA - National Aeronautics and Space Administration advance nuclear thermal propulsion technology that could one day cut travel times to Mars by more than half.

The work, conducted with NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center and industry partners, could position Huntsville as a future hub for next-generation space propulsion systems.

Read more at: https://256today.com/decades-after-nerva-uah-partners-with-nasa-to-revive-nuclear-thermal-propulsion-research/

Huntsville City Council President Jennie Robinson has announced her bid for re-election in District 3, highlighting priorities such as managing growth and supporting public safety.

Robinson has represented the district since 2014 and is seeking another term in the Aug. 25 municipal election.

Read more at: https://256today.com/robinson-announces-huntsville-city-council-reelection-campaign/