First News At Four

WAAY 31 FirstNews at 4: Friday, May 25, 2012

Fri, 25 May 2012 15:42:00 -0500

Hurray for FRIDAY!!! (and a long weekend for just about everyone.)

Today at 4...

BLUE Cosmetic Surgery doesn't just offer plastic surgery and injectables...they also perform an array of dental procedures from implants= to veneers to bleaching. If you are interested in any cosmetic dentistry check out www.bluemedhuntsville.com for more on setting up an appointment.

There is a lot going on in the Valley for Memorial Day weekend. Bridge Street is no exception. There will be lots of sales and activities for the kids. And of course, new movies at Monaco Pictures. Log on to www.bridgestreethuntsville.com for more.

And now that school is out, parents are looking for fun, safe and educational activities for the kids. Sci-Quest has hands-on camps all summer long for students. The camps start Tuesday, May 29th and continue until August 17th. There are many different subject for kids to delve into from space to animals. Camps are available for students from 4 years old to 12th graders. Check out www.sci-quest.org for more.

See you at 4!

WAAY 31 FirstNews at 4: Thursday, May 24, 2012

Thu, 24 May 2012 15:45:00 -0500

Coming up today at 4...

The Arts Council of Huntsville is getting ready to fill your summer with song. Concerts in the Park start June 4th at 6:30 p.m. There will be a different concert every Monday through August 6th at Big Spring Park. All the concerts were free. All you need to do is bring chairs, blankets and a picnic. For a complete list of performers log on to www.artshuntsville.org.

The Huntsville Madison County Public Library wants you to know reading is fun and a great way to spend your summer. The HMCPL is kicking off a summer reading campaign. You can pick up your kit starting May 29th before the program starts June 1st. There are different challenges for kids, teens and adults. The campaigns run through July 31st for kids and teens and through Labor Day for adults. Check out www.hmcpl.org.

And the new upscale bowling center at Bridge Street Town Centre is open and ready for fun. PinZ features a bowling lanes, a mechanical bull, a bar, back patio and food. It is geared towards adults. Log on to www.facebook.com/pinzhuntsville.

See you at 4!

WAAY 31 FirstNews at 4: Wednesday, May 23, 2012

Wed, 23 May 2012 15:44:00 -0500

Middle of the week...get ready for a hot weekend!

Today at 4...

Dr. Landon McLain from BLUE Cosmetic Surgery will tell us 4 things that everyone needs to use on their skin to keep it looking fresh and young. Skin care is the first step in a youthful appearance. For more all the services at BLUE Cosmetic Surgery and MedSpa call them at 256.428.2339 or log on to www.bluemedspahuntsville.com.

The National Children's Advocacy Center is trying to make up for some funding cuts and University Auto Group is helping the cause. Through the end of the month, every vehicle sold at all of the University dealerships will earn $100 for the NCAC. They are close to reaching their goal of $50,000, but there are only a few days left.

And Jim Parker is getting ready for his next show this Friday night at the VBC Playhouse. Tickets are $20 and the show starts at 6:30. For more information log on to www.jimparkermusic.com.

See you at 4!

WAAY 31 FirstNews at 4: Tuesday, May 22, 2012

Tue, 22 May 2012 15:42:00 -0500

Today at 4...

New Hope Clinic is expanding to offer more medical attention to under privledged kids at the Elementary School. To achieve their goal, the group is holding a fundraiser June 1st at the Huntsville Botanical Garden at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $60 to the event. For more information log on to www.newhopechildrensclinic.org.

Healthy Huntsville Initiative wants to get the Valley in shape. There are dozens of free events every month ranging from exercise classes to growing fresh food. June 9th will be Healthy City in the Park Day. To get the scoop on everything going on at Healthy Huntsville or to get details on the new app check out www.facebook.com/healthyhuntsville.

And Meredith's Sampler is ready to Dine and Dash through downtown Huntsville. Five stops for appetizers and drinks courtesy of the trolley. The next Dine and Dash is June 14th. Check out www.homegrownhuntsville.com.

See you at 4!

Bridge Street Town Centre sold

Tue, 22 May 2012 10:31:59 -0500

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WAAY) - Bridge Street Town Centre, one of Huntsville's most high-end retail developments, has been sold to an Illinois based company.

The deal was signed on Friday of last week. O&S Holdings transferred the deed to the Miller Capital Advisory, acting on behalf of Institutional Mall Investors LLC. Financial terms were not disclosed.

The California based O&S opened Bridge Street in 2007. The sale does not affect Monaco Pictures or the Westin hotel/office space.

“The vision behind Bridge Street was to provide a dynamic shopping, dining and entertainment experience unlike any other. The community and business partners at Bridge Street have embraced this vision and elevated Bridge Street Town Centre to one of the premier mixed used developments in the Southeast. We look forward to continuing to support Bridge Street, the community and MCA through our leasing and management services,” said Doug Badia, Executive Vice President for O&S Holdings.

“We are pleased to invest in the Huntsville community,” said John Neutzling, Chief Operating Officer of MCA. “We view Huntsville as a dynamic and growing community and we look forward to further enhancing the center for the benefit of its shoppers.”

Bridge Street Town Centre is the home of WAAY 31 FirstNews at 4.

WAAY 31 FirstNews at 4: Monday, May 21, 2012

Mon, 21 May 2012 15:48:00 -0500

This afternoon...

The Huntsville Community Chorus Association is ready for showtunes! Performances featuring the music of Jerry Herman will start June 1st. There are a couple of different options from dinner with theatre to dessert shows. Tickets range from $20-$30. Check out www.thechorus.org for more on the shows.

Family educator Lysa Parker will be speaking about attachment parenting and the very controversial Time Magazine cover. Lysa says the article does not represent attachment parenting in the correct light. Lysa also holds parenting classes. To sign up visit www.parentslifeline.com or email parentslifeline@gmail.com.

And we will give you some tips of planning that summer vacation. From how to save money to some cools places to visit.

See you at 4!

WAAY 31 FirstNews at 4: Friday, May 18, 2012

Fri, 18 May 2012 15:44:00 -0500

It is FRIDAY!!!! Yay, yay!

Today at 4...you can help four-legged friends this Saturday with a 3 for 1 benefit. A portion of proceeds will benefit the North Alabama Spay and Neuter Clinic. There are four places to shop. Stop by a New Leash on Life at 707 Andrew Jackson Way from 9-4, Greater Huntsville Humane Society at 2812 Johnson Road from 9:30-4:30, Spay Neuter Action Project at 2903 Bob Wallace Avenue from 9:30-4 or the Clinic Yard Sale at 701 Andrew Jackson Way from 9:30-3:30.

The Athens Lions Club presents a Kiddie Carnival this weekend to help cancer survivors. For $10 per kid, they get unlimited rides. Proceeds to go Lou C's Boutique. The carnival opens at 3:30 at the corner of Forrest and Beaty Streets in Athens.

SoulStock is ready to rock Decatur. The free Christian concert will feature several well known performers both Friday and Saturday at Point Mallard Park. For all the details log on to www.soulstock.com.

And Burritt on the Mountain has a lot going on this month. From summer camps for kids to City Lights and Stars...we will give you the details on the events. Log on to www.burrittonthemountain.com for more.

See you at 4!

WAAY 31 FirstNews at 4: Thursday, May 17, 2012

Thu, 17 May 2012 15:43:00 -0500

We have a very packed show today...so let's get right to it.

The Catfish Festival in Scottsboro is ready for its 12th year. There will be just about any and everything catfish for kids and adults alike this Saturday starting at 8 a.m. There will also be arts and crafts, a car show and of course, a lot of food. For more information visit www.jacksoncountychamber.com.

The first ever Town Creek Bluegrass Festival is Saturday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. There will be several bluegrass band performing to raise money for the Town Creek Library. Admission is $8 and you can bring along your own lawn chairs. Call 256.685.2973 for more information.

The Alabama Jubilee Hot Air Balloon Classic is May 26-27th in Decatur. The popular event will feature balloon rides, car shows, plenty of food and fun. It is free to get in and enjoy the event. Check out www.alabamajubilee.net for more.

Broadway Theatre League has announced its 2012-2013 season. There will be several shows geared towards families and grown-ups. It kicks-off with West Side Story followed by Blue Man Group, Spamalot, Chicago and Addam's Family. To see show dates and the rest of the season log on to www.broadwaytheatreleague.org.

And PinZ Bowling Center at Bridge Street Town Centre is gearing up for its Grand Opening tonight. PinZ is upscale bowling aimed at adults, although kids are welcome too. We will give you the details on the opening. Log on to www.facebook.com/pinzhuntsville.

See you at 4!

WAAY 31 FirstNews at 4: Wednesday, May 16, 2012

Wed, 16 May 2012 15:45:00 -0500

Today at 4...

Summer swimsuit season is just around the corner and if your body, isn't exactly beach ready...time is running out. It is never too late to hit the gym, but you might want a more immediate option. Dr. Landon McLain from BLUE Cosmetic Surgery will tell us all about SmartLipo. SmartLipo is a little less invasive than traditional liposuction. Blue Cosmetic Surgery and MedSpa offers many surgical procedures and salon services. Give them a call at 256.428.2339 or log on to www.bluemedspahuntsville.com.

Relay for Life is this weekend in Huntsville and Madison. The event kicks off Friday night 7 p.m. and runs through the night until 7 a.m. Saturday morning. In Huntsville, Relay for Life will be a John Hunt Park and at Hazel Green High School in Madison. The goal is to raise money and awareness for cancer research. Visit www.relayforlife.org/huntsville or www.relayforlife.org/northmadison for more.

Nexus Energy Center is paying it forward with your help. They are raising money to pay off electric bills. Random Acts of Energy will help keep the lights (and AC!) on for people in the Valley. If you would like to learn more or donate log on to www.nexusenergycenter.org/random.

See you at 4!

WAAY 31 FirstNews at 4: Tuesday, May 15, 2012

Tue, 15 May 2012 15:43:00 -0500

Coming up today at 4...

The Little Gym will show off their skills as they get ready for "show week". Owner Angel Hundley will talk about the encouraging system they use at the gym to help kids reach their potential. There are a host of different classes for kids of all ages. For more information give them a call at either location. For Jones Valley, 256-883-9484 or for Providence, 256-382-3123.

Healthy Huntsville is ready to launch a new app to help get you in shape and eating better. The Daily Feats app will help you earn points that will amount to dollars for charities. The launch of the app is tonight. Check out more on www.facebook.com/healthyhuntsville.

Meredith's Sampler is headed to Eco-Smoke to introduce you to an alternative to cigarettes. They are a vapor, smoke-free option. We will show you exactly how they work.

See you at 4!

WAAY 31 FirstNews at 4: Monday, May 14, 2012

Mon, 14 May 2012 15:44:00 -0500

Today at 4....

The Limestone County Sheriff's Office Rodeo is in its 30th year in Athens and there is so much going on during the event. Today everything kicks off with the kids followed by Street Dancing tomorrow night. Rodeo performances are Friday and Saturday. For more on the event log on to www.limestonecountyrodeo.com.

The Sidewalk Arts Stroll through downtown Huntsville returns Thursday. There will be vendors, live music and performers around the square at the courthouse. An Art Stroll will take place the third Thursday of every month Through August. Check out www.sidewalkartsstroll.com for more.

And Girls Inc. is celebrating community involvement and wants to give Valley girls the best shot at becoming everything they want to be. There will be a 5K next month to raise money and awareness for Girls Inc. Check out www.girlsinc-huntsville.com.

See you at 4!

Barbeque-rubbed pork chops from Dinner by Design

Fri, 11 May 2012 15:46:00 -0500

This all-purpose rub recipe would be delicious on pork, chicken or shrimp! Make a double recipe and reserve some in your spice rack. If you don’t have pork chops, try using it on pork tenderloin.

1. For the barbecue seasoning combine in a small bowl:

2 Tbl brown sugar

2 tsp chili powder

2 tsp paprika

1 tsp cumin

1 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp kosher salt

1/2 tsp ground mustard

1/4 tsp allspice

1/4 tsp cayenne pepper

2. Rub 6 boneless pork loin chops with barbecue seasoning. Refrigerate chops for about an hour.

3. Preheat grill to medium and grill chops on an oiled grate for about 4-5 minutes per side. Allow to rest a few minutes before serving.

WAAY 31 FirstNews at 4: Friday, May 11, 2012

Fri, 11 May 2012 15:40:00 -0500

Yea, it is FRIDAY!!! TGIF!

Coming up at 4...

The Arthritis Foundation's Humanitarian Award Gala is coming up on Tuesday, May 15th. It will be at Merrimack Hall honoring its founders. Tickets start at $75 dollars and all the proceeds go towards the local chapter of the Arthritis Foundation. You can find out more about getting tickets to the event at www.arthritis.org/alabama.

Dinner by Design wants to help you eat better without the effort. During this month, you don't even have to do the prep work. You can just call in your order and the staff will prepare your meals for free. All you have to do is heat and eat. Dinner by Design is also now offering free delivery in Madison. It doesn't get much easier than that! Check out www.facebook.com/dinnerbydesignhsv for more.

And our last performer of the week will be Payton Taylor. Payton is just one of many who will take the stage at the Lincoln County Music Festival tomorrow. All proceeds go to county athletics. You can get tickets at the door to catch liver performances from the likes of Charlie Daniels Band and Cowboy Troy. Log on to www.lincolncountymusicfest.com for more.

See you at 4!

WAAY 31 FirstNews at 4: Thursday, May 10, 2012

Thu, 10 May 2012 15:43:00 -0500

Well the word of the day is pulchritudinous....just a big fancy word for beautiful. There is really no other way to describe today but practically perfect.

Today at 4...letter carriers are hoping to "stamp out hunger". This Saturday, leave some canned or non-perishable food in a bag for your mailman to pick up or drop off food at the post office. The food will be used to restock local food pantries.

You could help bring a little culture to the Valley. The CIEE is looking for families to sponsor international exchange students for the upcoming year. Families will need to give the student a place to live and three meals per day. All students speak English and are between 15-18 years of age. For more on the program contact Jim Powers at jpowers92@comcast.net or 256.653.1066. You can also learn more about the program at www.ciee.org.

PinZ bowling center at Bridge Street will celebrate its grand opening May 17th. We will get the scoop on the bowling center and find out about a lot of the special events planned for the upcoming weeks. Check out www.pinzbowl.com for more.

And Jordyn Yarker will perform as we continue to talk about the Lincoln County Music Festival. Jordyn is from down under and will be shooting her music video at the festival this Saturday. If you would like to be a part of helping launch Jordyn's career, just head out to Meadows Thompson Stadium in Fayetteville Saturday. Log on to www.lincolncountymusicfest.com for more.

See you at 4!

WAAY 31 Concert Series : Jaime Fox

Wed, 09 May 2012 16:55:00 -0500

The WAAY 31 Concert Series continues with another performer scheduled to appear at the May 12th Lincoln County Music Festival : Jaime Fox.

Jaime Fox is an independent singer/songwriter orginally from Frederick, MD. She lives in Nashville, TN where she writes songs for Rick Hall Publishing.

She earned her Bachelor of Arts at the University of Maryland in this field in June 1999. During her college years, Fox was actively involved in the local music community. She fronted two bands, "Central Avenue Band" and "The Jaime Fox Band", and was a member of the female a capella group, "Treblemakers." Additionally, she participated in community theatre and was a motivational speaker for the student-athlete program, TEAM Maryland. Ever searching for a place to perform, Fox decided to enter into local pageants. She held four consectutive local titles and placed in the top five at the Miss Maryland Pageant twice, winning Overall Talent both times. Finally, after her fourth attempt, Fox was crowned Miss Maryland and was a participant in the nationally televised Miss America Pageant on ABC.

If you'd like to be featured in the WAAY 31 Concert Series, email Meredith Wood.

WAAY 31 FirstNews at 4: Wednesday, May 9, 2012

Wed, 09 May 2012 15:43:00 -0500

Have you ever wanted to change the shape of your chin or jawline? Facial implants are one option. Dr. Landon McLain from BLUE MedSpa will explain how the implants work and who should think about them a viable option. BLUE MedSpa now offers a wide variety of cosmetic surgeries, salon services and injectables like Botox. For more information log on to www.bluemedspahuntsville.com.

The AAUW is hosting another "cocktails and convos" event tonight for professional women. The party gets started at 5 p.m. at Prive at Monaco Pictures. Women can get together and mingle. It is "dutch treat" and admission is free.

The Rocket City Brewfest is this weekend. From ales to stouts to lagers, there will be dozens of beers to taste at the Huntsville Depot. Tickets are $34.50 in advance and $45 at the door for either Friday or Saturday. For more log on to www.rocketcitybrewfest.com.

And we will have another performer from the Lincoln County Music Festival. Jaime Fox...that's with one "x". The Maryland singer uses to familiar name to her advantage, but wants to known for her own music. For more on the festival log on to www.lincolncountymusicfest.com.

See you at 4!

WAAY 31 Concert Series : Brinn Black

Tue, 08 May 2012 16:51:56 -0500

As a young country music artist, Brinn Black has accomplished more than she could have ever dreamed of. Her debut single “Sweet Virginia Sunset” was played on over 150 stations around the world. She has toured across the nation, and been able to share the stage with some of country music’s biggest stars! According to Brinn, "my life is truly blessed“.

On Saturday, May 12th, Brinn will be performing at the Lincoln County Music Festival in Fayetteville.

If you'd like to be featured in the WAAY 31 Concert Series, email Meredith Wood.

WAAY 31 FirstNews at 4: Tuesday, May 8, 2012

Tue, 08 May 2012 15:43:00 -0500

We have a pretty busy show set up for this afternoon.

Another performer at the Lincoln County Music Festival will be on the show to tell us about the event and give us a song. Brinn Black is a country artist from Virginia. A couple of her songs are poised to make it big. The Lincoln County Music Fest will be Saturday, May 12th at the Meadows Thompson Stadium in Fayetteville. All the proceeds go towards the school's athletics programs. Check out www.lincolncountymusicfest.com for ticket information and a complete line-up.

It is time to get healthy, Huntsville. The initiative is in full swing and continues through August. There are free events every week and we will have a guest to tell us about a few of them this week. Tonight at Big Spring Park Romen McDonald will host a Firm Body Bootcamp from 6-7 p.m. Saturday at 9 a.m. at the Botanical Gardens you can learn how to grow your own healthy food. Check out www.facebook.com/#!/healthyhuntsville.

Sheila Dieu will be giving away her Mother's Day gift basket today. I will draw the winning names. So, if you entered, tune in to find out if you won! Check out more on the good at www.legourmetchef.com.

And we will take you to the Furniture Factory on this week's Meredith's Sampler. Find out that the place known for its back patio is more than just a bar.

See you at 4!

WAAY 31 Concert Series : Aaron Kelly

Mon, 07 May 2012 16:12:00 -0500

The WAAY 31 Concert Series continues with Aaron Kelly. Aaron was one of the breakout stars from season 9 of American Idol. Aaron is working on an album, writing his own songs.

He's one of several performers who'll be hitting the stage May 12th at the Lincoln County Music Festival.

If you'd like to be featured on WAAY 31's Concert Series, email Meredith Wood.

WAAY 31 FirstNews at 4: Monday, May 7, 2012

Mon, 07 May 2012 15:47:00 -0500

The WAAY 31 crew had a great time at WhistleStop this weekend. There was tons of BBQ and lots of people out enjoying the heat! It was definitely hot!

This week will be highlighting the Lincoln County Music Festival that will be this Saturday. Today's performer will be Aaron Kelly. You may remember Aaron from American Idol Season 9. He finished in the top 5 and has gone on tour the country with his band. Aaron is working on an album, writing his own songs. Aaron will be just one of several performers at the festival including Charlie Daniels Band and Cowboy Troy. For more on the event log on to www.lincolncountymusicfest.com.

Mother's Day is this Sunday and if you can't decide what to get mom, what about a home cooked meal that she doesn't have to step foot in the kitchen to prepare. Jennifer Sherman from Dinner by Design has a way for Dad and the kids to whip up a lunch for 6 to present to mom. You will help prepare it and take home an entrée, 2 sides and a dessert. Space is limited. Check out www.facebook.com/DinnerByDesignHSV.

See you at 4!