Top 5 stories you missed including a Madison singer's debut on American Idol

Johnny knox American idol — Surprise, surprise! (@johnnyknoxmusic / Instagram)

Let’s get caught up, Huntsville. These top 5 stories from last week will bring you up to speed on some of the buzziest news around town.

1. 7 new building permits issued for large Huntsville-area projects

335291630 6446635072054755 224972448050011126 n.jpg — This is one of many exciting new developments in Huntsville. (JH Berry & Gilbert / Facebook)

What’s happening: Seven million-dollar-plus permits were issued last week for the Huntsville area. Huntsville Logistics Center, located at Old Highway 20 and Gunters Way, is the biggest project, coming in at approximately $200 million.

Why it matters: This massive (we’re talking 2.2 million square feet) project is going to house commercial and industrial clients, bringing approximately 700 jobs to the area. During construction, set to be complete Q4 2023, the project will bring an additional 450 jobs to the area.

2. Madison singer off to a strong start in American Idol

What’s happening: Johnny Knox, a self-proclaimed “Neo pop artist wannabe” won the golden ticket on season 21 of American Idol. He won the judges over in his knockout audition, bringing them sourdough bread and an original song.

Why it matters: Knox was born in Missouri but grew up in Madison, Alabama, attending Westminster Christian Academy. He’s representing his hometown well and heading straight to Hollywood.

3. Latest health score honor roll includes Little Rosie’s, Taco Mama

334952293 2610371435800773 6631081306306121625 n — Little Rosie’s new score lands them a spot on our health score honor roll. (Little Rosie’s / Facebook)

The honor roll:

Find the full list here.

4. Summer lake days are coming—5 amazing lakes near Huntsville

Smith Lake in Alabama—one of 5 amazing lakes near Huntsville — Who’s ready for warm, sunny lake days? (Smith Lake Alabama / Facebook)

The lakes:

Lake Guntersville: This is Alabama’s largest lake, featuring world-class fishing, Lake Guntersville State Park, horseback riding, City Harbor and more.
Lewis Smith Lake: Located between Birmingham and Huntsville, this lake has a lot to offer—fishing, boating, mini golf, the Natural Bridge of Alabama and more.
Lake Weiss: Known as the “Crappie Capital of the World,” this lake has plenty of fishing as well as golf courses, waterfalls, hiking trails and more.
Wilson Lake: This one hosts fishing tournaments and boasts beautiful wildlife viewing and hiking trails.
Wheeler Lake: There’s so much to love here—Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge, a championship golf course , Wheeler Lake Scenic Cruises, disc golf and more.

5. Love to learn? Check out 4 places you can go to take on a new hobby

a brown rabbit made out of fiber — Let’s learn! (Curtis Venetta / Hville Blast)

The spots:

Fiber Artwork: At this spot, located on Regal Drive, you can crochet, felting, knitting, spinning and weaving.
Pinot’s Palette: Located in Providence, you can take painting classes while sipping with friends.
The Vessel: Stovehouse’s community ceramics studio is the perfect place to pick up pottery.
Huntsville Botanical Garden: There’s lots of programs at the Huntsville Botanical Gardens for both kids and adults to learn.