Downtown Huntsville Inc. salutes those who make downtown great

HUNTSVILLE – It was a night to celebrate “what makes Downtown Huntsville great” Thursday as Downtown Huntsville Inc., honored area businesses and civic leaders at its annual meeting and Downtown Awards.

The winners were chosen by public vote overseen by Hville Blast and Bank Independent was the presenting sponsor. According to DHI, more than 2,500 votes were cast. The event was hosted at Campus 805’s Stone Event Center.

Highlighting the awards was the recognition of Donna Castellano as “Advocate of the Year.” The award is selected by the DHI team and recognizes an individual or organization who has made significant contributions to the revitalization and success of Downtown Huntsville.

Castellano, executive director of the Historic Huntsville Foundation, was recognized for her strong love of Huntsville’s history and commitment to researching and bringing long-needed recognition to stories that are marginalized or forgotten.

Over the course of two years, she has worked with her organization to unveil four historic markers honoring Black and white women who made history in Huntsville.

Winners

• Best New Business – Pearl Skin Aesthetics
  

  

  Recognizes a new downtown business that is already making waves in the community. Founded in 2023 by Renatta Pearl Keith, Pearl Skin Aesthetics is a medical spa that believes in providing an inclusive, safe skincare experience for all. Their expertise encompasses a wide range of skincare techniques, including advanced laser treatments, facial rejuvenation, and personalized skincare regimens.

• Event of the Year – Jazz in the Park
  Recognizes an event that brought a vibrant atmosphere to downtown in 2023. Jazz in the Park began as a collaboration between the City of Huntsville’s Office of Diversity and Inclusion and Magic City Smooth Jazz to provide a free, high-quality jazz concert series featuring local, regional, and national artists. The event was canceled in 2020 due to the pandemic, but is now back and better than ever.

• Project of the Year – Wicks Family Field at Joe Davis Stadium
  Recognizes a development project that had a profound impact on Downtown Huntsville. Originally built in 1985, Joe Davis Stadium was a beloved landmark for minor-league baseball, earning the nickname “The Crown Jewel of the Southern League.” After its doors closed in 2015, the stadium was reimagined to be a state-of-the-art sports facility and new home to Huntsville City Football Club.

DHI is a not-for-profit, membership organization committed to creating a vibrant, diverse and economically sustainable downtown. For more information visit here.