Howards blend arts, technology

June, from left, Chris, Bonnie, and Price Howard blend their interests in technology with their proven aptitudes for music. (CONTRIBUTED)

MADISON – The Howard family — Chris, Bonnie, June and Price — balances their technological aptitudes with musical avocations.

Florence natives, Chris and Bonnie met at the University of North Alabama. Marrying in 1994, they first lived in Huntsville. “Wall Triana was a long dark road. Madison didn’t have businesses and infrastructure it has now,” Bonnie said.

After June was born, they moved to Madison, first on Arnold Road and then to Pebblebrook. “We’ve been so happy with June and Price’s education and opportunities — especially band — available in Madison City Schools,” Bonnie said.

“We love the sense of community,” Bonnie said. She acknowledged Mayor Troy Trulock’s “exceptional leadership … and police and fire departments second to none.”

Bonnie worked many years as a Madison County Health Department inspector before switching to education, now in her fourth year as a sixth-grade science and social studies teacher at Madison Elementary School. She also instructs a Project Lead the Way unit on robotics and automation.

Bonnie founded an after-school STEM Club (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) for fifth- and sixth-graders, who “use the engineering design process to develop solutions to specific problems.”

Also invested in technology, Chris works as Director of Software Development at Asteria Solutions Group. Away from software design, Chris plays bass for Random Sample, which has entertained for the Alabama Hammers and at The Furniture Factory.

June earned full tuition at UNA and will study Mandarin Chinese at Tianjin Foreign Studies University in China. “I’m excited to experience another culture and immerse in the language,” June said. She has played upright string bass with Shoals Symphony Orchestra.

Price, a Bob Jones High School sophomore, plays tenor drum in the award-winning Patriot Band and Indoor Drumline. “I enjoyed traveling with the drumline. I’m excited that Leigh Thomas is taking the lead role in band. I have already learned so much from her,” Price said.

In college, Price plans to study software development and continue in drumline.

The Howards attend Saint Matthew’s Episcopal Church where Chris, June and Price play in the 5 O’Clock Band.