Celebrate Birmingham’s 154th birthday this month with a festive field trip around town! We’ve grown from a small iron-and-steel community into a vibrant, colorful city, so take it in with fresh eyes this season. Discover more starting on page 16.
Photograph by Cherith Glover Fluker
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EDITOR’S NOTE
As the twinkle lights begin to shine bright across Birmingham and the air takes on that winter crisp, our city comes alive with family fun, community spirit, and plenty of ways to enjoy the season. This month, we’re celebrating the magic of The Magic City as tourists in our own town. Travel writer Cherith Fluker Glover takes us on a festive field trip beginning on page 16.
One of our favorite stops this month is the new Braelynn’s Way playground located at Bessie Estell Park. It’s a place where every child can play, no matter their ability. Read all about the new space and the mom whose daughter inspired it on page 10.
If you’re making your holiday shopping list, we’ve rounded up the best local toy shops, plus their recommendations for the best gifts to give.
Support our amazing small businesses this season (page 22). Of course, the holidays wouldn’t be complete without soaking in a few of our favorite events, from light displays to visiting Santa and more. You can fill up your calendar with the options we’ve put together on page 30. And when it’s time to warm up, we’ve mapped out the coziest cups of hot chocolate in town (page 14).
This December, I challenge you to see Birmingham with fresh eyes. Here’s to wonder, warmth, and finding the magic in our own backyard.
Stephanie Gibson Lepore, Content Director and Mom, stephanie@jbmcmedia.com
INSIDE THE ISSUE
Sean of the South
A Boyhood Christmas Break p. 6
Medical
Pediatric Dentistry p. 8
Active Living
Braelynn’s Way p. 10
Food
The coziest cups of hot chocolate p. 14
Travel
Be a hometown tourist p. 16
Education Update
News from local schools p. 26
Schoolhouse
Update from the Hoover School District p. 29
Happenings
December Events Calendar p. 30
FEATURE
STORY
Holiday Gift Guide
Shop the best of Birmingham’s gift shops with these fabulous recommendations for kids of all ages p. 20
A Boyhood Christmas Break
Christmas break. There were little-kid toys scattered around the house, fallen in the line of duty.
A friendship bracelet kit, decimated. A loaded whoopee cushion on a chair, awaiting its next victim. A Silly Putty wad, dangling from a light fixture.
There was a knock-off Stretch Armstrong doll, lying on the coffee table, tired and depressed. I gave the generic-brand stretch doll to my 12-yearold goddaughter for Christmas. Namely, because I had a Stretch Armstrong when I was a kid.
Sean Dietrich
I’m amazed we survived however, because the other day when I opened the box a warning label said this product contains a chemical known to the state of California to cause birth defects, cancer, and other reproductive harm, etc.
And I’m thinking about the Christmas breaks of my childhood. I’m remembering the glory of Christmases yore, back before warning labels which caused cancer in California. Back before technology lit the world with its perpetually phosphorus glow.
Things in America have changed since I was a boy. We were feral children during Christmas breaks. We were dangerous. We lived without helmets. We had BB guns. We ate saturated fat. And we were never, ever inside.
After all, there was no reason to be inside. Not if you owned a bike. I spent the first 14 years of my life with a bicycle saddle digging into my main crevice.
If we weren’t riding bikes, however, we were likely in the
woods, building campfires, making rope swings, or inventing new ways to break Joseph Tyler’s leg.
We built tree houses, too. I don’t know where we managed to find scrap lumber for such structures, but somehow we always did. Usually, the lumber was warped, waterlogged, and came pre-treated with tetanus.
We would haul lumber into the woods, climb trees, and use our dads’ hammers, shouting things like, “Keep it plumb!” even though, technically, we had no idea what “plumb” meant.
Inevitably, the girls wanted to join our all-boy treehouse clubs. We boys prohibited all female contact. But, without fail, one weak-minded soldier would succumb to the wiles of Angie Philhour and the next day your treehouse had curtains.
But everything has changed. And sometimes I
wonder if we haven’t failed our kids somehow.
Today, I see young people listlessly wandering through department-store aisles, looking downward at a bluish glow. Statistically, Americans send two texts every minute.
Even school breaks have changed. When I was a kid, we got three months off each summer. Today, many US schools don’t get more than a few weeks off. In Massachusetts, they’re lucky if they get 10 days.
And bikes. There aren’t many bikes around. Forty years ago 78 percent of American schoolchildren rode bikes. Today, it’s barely 20 percent.
And sadly, kids do not build treehouses anymore, either. Instead their parents select an architect who then purchases a city permit before hiring a contractor. Construction codes are enforced, job sites are monitored by OSHA standards, and once per year a fire captain performs an inspection for safety hazards and maximum capacity.
Except in California, of course, where treehouses are known to cause cancer.
For more information or to request training, workshop, or presentations, contact:
g alabamarelay.com/outreach
g teresa.burns@t-mobile.com g 601-936-5012
g alabamarelay.com/speech-disability
Growing Smiles
From the first loose tooth to that exciting gap-toothed grin, here’s what parents need to know about when—and how—kids lose their baby teeth, plus tips for keeping those growing smiles healthy.
Children’s dental care can be one of those parenting tasks that sneaks up on you, but it’s important to teach proper oral care from an early age to maintain healthy habits as kids grow. Here’s what you should know about helping little ones brush their teeth, how to make losing baby teeth a fun milestone, and what to do to keep those smiles bright and healthy.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) was founded in 1947 and is a nonprofit professional membership association representing the specialty of pediatric dentistry. As “the leading national advocate dedicated exclusively to children’s oral health,” its members provide primary care and dental specialty treatments for infants, children, adolescents, and individuals with special health-care needs.
Even though primary, better known as “baby,” teeth are temporary, the AAPD points out their vital roles of helping children chew, speak, and hold space in the jaw for the permanent teeth to come. According to one child-dental overview, “if a baby tooth decays or is removed too early, the space necessary for the permanent teeth is lost and can only be regained through orthodontic treatment.” That means healthy care of baby teeth isn’t just until the permanent teeth come in; good health care matters now.
Children typically begin losing baby teeth around ages 5 or 6 (often the front lower teeth first) and continue until about ages 12 or 13. As those teeth loosen and fall out, the new adult teeth will come in, completing the set (except for wisdom teeth) by adolescence. When the “wiggly tooth” stage hits, you can help turn it into a positive milestone.
TOOTH TIPS FOR PARENTS
• Establish good habits early. The AAPD recommends that children have what they call a “dental home,” a consistent oral health provider, by age 1 or within six months of the first tooth erupting.
• Even before baby teeth arrive, wipe baby’s gums after feedings; once teeth appear, brush with a soft infant toothbrush.
• Use a rice-size amount of toothpaste for kids under 3, and supervise brushing until your child can comfortably spit out toothpaste. Between ages 3 and 6, use a pea-size amount of toothpaste.
• Begin flossing once teeth start touching.
• Replace your child’s toothbrush every three to four months or after an illness.
• Monitor pacifier use and thumb-sucking habits; if these persist beyond age 3, talk with your pediatric dentist about possible interventions.
PHOTOGRAPH BY STEPHANIE GIBSON LEPORE
PREPARE FOR THE TOOTH-LOSS PHASE.
When baby teeth begin to loosen, explain to your child that this is a natural step. The “baby” tooth is making way for the “adult” tooth.
If a baby tooth is very late in falling out, or if a permanent tooth is coming in behind a baby tooth that hasn’t loosened, consult your pediatric dentist.
MONITOR DIET TO PREVENT DECAY.
• Limit sugary and sticky snacks and drinks. Frequent sugar exposure is a critical risk factor in early childhood cavities.
• Avoid putting young children to bed with bottles of milk, juice, or formula, as this habit can lead to the decay of baby teeth, which in turn affects adult teeth.
• Offer a diet primarily made up of fresh fruits, cheese, yogurt, veggies, nuts, and water.
CELEBRATE THE MILESTONES.
Losing a tooth can be exciting. Use the moment to talk about adult teeth, continue healthy habits, and emphasize good hygiene so the new tooth grows in nicely.
Schedule the follow-up dental visit as recommended so your child’s dentist can evaluate the emerging adult teeth and ensure space and alignment are on track.
STAY CONSISTENT WITH CHECK-UPS.
The AAPD emphasizes periodic dental exams, typically every six months (or as recommended by your dentist) to monitor growth, hygiene, and development.
Make sure your dentist is comfortable with children and their developmental dental changes.
KNOW WHEN TO CALL THE DENTIST.
Contact your pediatric dentist if:
• A permanent tooth appears before the baby tooth is loose or gone.
• A tooth becomes loose too early (before age 4) due to injury or decay.
• You see swelling or bleeding or there is pain around a loose tooth.
• A tooth hasn’t erupted when expected; your dentist can check the spacing and alignment.
MAKE IT A MILESTONE
Celebrate each wiggly tooth—it’s a smile in progress! Baby (primary) teeth hold space for adult (permanent) teeth and help children chew and speak properly. Most children start losing baby teeth around ages 5 to 6 and continuing until around age 12, as the last baby molars come out to make way for permanent teeth. The first teeth to be shed are often the lower front central incisors, followed by the upper central incisors.
Turn tooth loss into a positive family tradition by taking a “first lost tooth” photo, recording the date in a tooth-loss tracker or journal, or by creating a special Tooth Fairy tradition. (Raise your hand if you received a dollar under your pillow for each lost tooth!) The Tooth Fairy Flylight brings the magic of the Tooth Fairy to life with a colorful storybook and the Tooth Fairy Flylight projector nightlight. The story introduces children to the whimsical world of tooth fairies and their special “Flylight signal.” When a loose tooth finally falls out, kids can place it in the Flylight tray, press a button, and send a glowing message straight to tooth fairyland. It’s a memorable way to build excitement around losing teeth and adding a bit of magic to the milestone. Visit toothfairyflylight.com to order or learn more.
PHOTOGRAPH
For Kids of All Abilities
A new playground at Bessie Estell Park features accessible equipment, sensory-friendly spaces, and inclusive design elements.
BY STEPHANIE GIBSON LEPORE
Families with accessibility needs have a new reason to celebrate: The city’s very first fully inclusive playground opened recently at Bessie Estell Park (901 8th Street South). The Birmingham Park and Recreation Board in partnership with the Mayor’s Office, Birmingham City Councilor Valerie Abbott, Senator Rodger Smitherman, and the Glen Iris Neighborhood Association unveiled the new space—named Braelynn’s Way—on October 16.
The vision for Braelynn’s Way began when local mother Veronica Ware imagined a space where her daughter, and every child, could play, explore, and simply be part of the fun regardless of ability. The Birmingham City Council and parks and recreation officials worked together with Veronica to bring her dream to life. At the ribbon cutting, Shonae Eddins-Bennett, director of the Birmingham Park and Recreation Board, said: “This playground is a beautiful reflection of what can happen when compassion meets community. Our goal has always
PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF VERONICA WARE FACEBOOK
been to create spaces where every child, regardless of ability, feels welcome, valued and included.”
Braelynn’s Way is designed to accommodate children and families of all abilities. That means playground surfaces, ramps, swings, slides, and seesaws that work not just for typical users, but also for children with mobility challenges. It is a community symbol of inclusion.
Braelynn’s Way gives families a reason to visit the Glen Iris neighborhood and enjoy outdoor time together. The playground’s opening is a win for parents of children with special needs who need a place where they can fully join in the fun. The Birmingham Park and Recreation Board said in a statement that, “Veronica’s heartfelt desire was
for her child—and all children with special needs— to experience the same fun, energy, and freedom that every playground should offer.”
Veronica advocated for years for this inclusive space, noting that her resolve was unshakeable and her faith kept her going. Though Braelynn passed away before her mother’s dream was realized, naming the playground after her is an homage to the little girl who inspired the community. At the ribbon cutting, Veronica noted that she was happy for the children like her daughter who now have a space of their own, as well as for the community support she received. “I am overwhelmingly joyful and excited to know that so many children will now get to enjoy this beautiful place.”
SWEET SIPS
Find the best cups of cocoa to warm up this winter.
BY STEPHANIE GIBSON LEPORE
When the cold sets in for the foreseeable future and a coat becomes your daily essential, there’s nothing quite like wrapping your (gloved) hands around a steaming mug of hot chocolate. But not all cocoa is created equal—some boast rich, velvety layers of melted chocolate, while others stand out with tasty twists such as toasted marshmallows, peppermint, or fresh whipped cream. Whether you’re planning a family outing after ice-skating, a sweet treat between shopping stops, or just a solo moment of silence, here’s where to find the best hot chocolate around town.
Big Spoon Creamery
You’d have to live under a rock to not know about some of the tastiest ice cream in Birmingham, but did you know that, come chillier temps, Big Spoon serves their version of hot cocoa? Their Hot Sipping Chocolate is a blend of top-quality dark and milk chocolate that’s topped with a torchedto-crispy-melty-perfection house-made vanilla marshmallow.
Caveat Coffee
For a classic and creamy cup of cocoa, Caveat Coffee hits the spot every time. If you’re feeling adventurous (or if you’re dairy-free), sub in macadamia milk and top with a sprinkle of cinnamon. Make use of the convenient drive-thru to place your family’s order before heading out to look at Christmas lights.
Chocolatá
Visit this divine chocolate shop in Forest Park, which uses single-origin chocolate ethically sourced from South America, and take home a container of their hot cocoa mix or sipping chocolate. The cocoa mix contains dark cocoa powder from Ecuador,
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF BIG SPOON CREAMERY FACEBOOK
chocolate chips, sugar, and a dash of cinnamon, while the rich sipping chocolate is made with solid chocolate, sugar, and cayenne pepper for spice.
Church Street Coffee and Books
Come for a Breakup Cookie, stay for the simple— and simply delicious—hot chocolate. You can order a traditional cup, or go the peppermint route. Either way is sure to please at this Crestline Village bookshop that’s been a staple of the community since 2011.
Frothy Monkey
Head downtown or over to the Homewood location to warm up with Frothy Monkey’s standout hot cocoa, featuring steamed chocolate milk from Hatcher Family Dairy in College Grove, Tennessee. Feeling fancy? Customize your cup with a pump of hazelnut, vanilla, or banana syrup, or ask for a drizzle of mocha or caramel sauce.
O.Henry’s
With locations all around town, including Homewood, Mt. Laurel, Hoover, Highland Park, and Vestavia, grabbing a toasty cup of hot chocolate is convenient no matter where you live. This longtime Birmingham coffee shop serves up a ho-ho-holiday favorite with a minty twist: plenty of peppermint, fresh whipped cream, and a festive crushed candy topping.
Pour: Mobile Coffee & Cocktails
Co-owner Rebecca Posey calls Pour’s made-fromscratch hot chocolate “a cup of comfort with its creamy, chocolatey goodness topped with whipped cream, marshmallows, or a chocolate syrup
drizzle—or all of the above!” Though the mobile coffee company isn’t set up to sell to the public, you might be lucky enough to attend an event where they’re serving—or just book your own!
Red Cat Coffee House
This coffee shop has been serving Birmingham since 2008 and now has three locations: Pepper Place, Railroad Park, and UAB Highlands Hospital. Their motto—coffee is for everyone—speaks for their winter hot chocolate selections, too. Enjoy a creamy cup with peppermint or coconut, and be sure to add an extra-generous amount of whipped cream. You can also check out their winter drink menu, with features such as a candy cane, gingerbread, or s’mores latte.
Red Mountain Expresso
Though this little drive-thru-only hut in Homewood does offer a delicious hot chocolate in three sizes, we recommend one of their rich neighborhood-named coffee drinks. Choose from the Broadway (white chocolate and caramel latte), Hollywood (caramel and hazelnut latte with cinnamon), or Vulcan (white chocolate and brown sugar cinnamon).
Seeds Coffee Co.
This West Homewood hot spot boasts a cheery, chilled-out atmosphere, so it’s worth sipping your mug in-house. Folks love the deep, not-too-sweet taste of Seeds’ hot chocolate, and we love that you can order it “kids temp” for smaller sippers. Add a pump of peppermint or vanilla for an extra-sweet layer of flavor.
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF THE RED CAT FACEBOOK
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF CHURCH STREET COFFEE AND BOOKS FACEBOOK
Be a Tourist in Your Own Backyard
Celebrate the best of Birmingham this holiday season.
STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHS
BY CHERITH GLOVER FLUKER
This December, as Birmingham prepares to celebrate its birthday, I’m inviting you to do something a little different: Explore home.
Birmingham was officially founded on December 19, 1871. What started as a young city with big dreams has grown from iron and steel into the vibrant, soulful, creative place we call home. As a travel writer, I often encourage people to explore new destinations—charming small towns, scenic trails, coastal escapes—but I’ve learned that some of the most meaningful adventures can happen right here at home.
Birmingham is called The Magic City for a reason, and sometimes all it takes is looking at familiar streets with fresh eyes to rediscover that magic. It’s easy to get caught up in the rhythm of everyday life. Commutes, errands, practices, and deadlines can make you forget that we live in a place people travel from all around the world to experience.
Many of the places we drive past every day hold something extraordinary if we pause long enough to notice. Take Barber Motorsports Park, for example. Most locals recognize it as the home of the annual Indy Grand Prix, but tucked within its grounds is the Porsche Track Experience, one of the most unique driving programs in the world. Porsche Track Experience Project Manager Michael Gay explains: “We have participants who come from as far away as Alaska, Canada, and even England for this one-of-a-kind experience.”
When you slow down and give yourself permission to explore, Birmingham reveals
itself in new ways. Start with a walk through Railroad Park, our downtown oasis that transformed an industrial corridor into a community gathering space. Watch the skyline glint against the water at sunset. Listen to the hum of families, joggers, and food trucks blending into the city’s soundtrack. From there, cross over to Regions Field and catch a Barons game or simply enjoy the view of the ballpark lights.
Step inside the Birmingham Museum of Art and linger a bit. Instead of rushing through, pause at one exhibit and
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let it tell its story. You might discover a new favorite piece. Or maybe you’ll discover a renewed appreciation for how much creativity lives right here in our city.
And don’t forget to revisit Vulcan Park and Museum. Standing high above Red Mountain, Vulcan is a symbol of strength. He’s a reminder of Birmingham’s resilience, innovation, and pride. From his observation deck, you can see how the city continues to evolve while honoring its roots.
Saturdays are perfect for exploring. Start at Pepper Place Market, where local farmers, makers, and musicians turn an ordinary morning into a celebration of community. Pick up fresh flowers, try a new baked good, or chat with a vendor whose passion for their craft is contagious. Then wander into one of the nearby shops or restaurants that make this district a Birmingham favorite. You could also venture into a new neighborhood cafe. Order something different. Perhaps an espresso you’ve never tried or a seasonal pastry that catches your eye. Sit by the window and watch the city move.
Later, ride the elevator to the rooftop at The Elyton Hotel and see Birmingham sparkle below. The city feels both familiar and new from that view. If you’re looking for quiet inspiration, visit a library you’ve never been to (there are more than 40 in the Jefferson County system alone, and Irondale’s is brand new!). Browse the shelves, flip through local history, or find a cozy corner to write, read, or daydream. Libraries are, in many ways, the heartbeat of a community. And each library in Jefferson County has a unique vibe.
Being a tourist in your own city is about seeing new sights and having new experiences. It’s about remembering how much Birmingham has grown, how its people continue to dream, and how each of us contributes to that ongoing story. When we explore locally, we learn more about the city and about ourselves. We’re reminded of what drew us here, what keeps us rooted, and what gives this place its unmistakable spirit.
So, this December, as Birmingham turns another year older, celebrate by rediscovering what makes it special. Walk a little slower. Listen a little closer. Taste something new. Invite a friend or family member to explore with you. Whether you’ve lived here your whole life or you’re new to the Magic City, there’s always something to uncover. Sometimes the best adventures don’t require a plane ticket. They begin with a bit of curiosity and an open heart. Here’s to being a backyard tourist—and to falling in love with Birmingham all over again.
Porsche Track Experience Project
Alabama Theatre
Southern Museum of Flight
Christenberry Planetarium
Small Shops, Big Joy
Your Guide to Local Holiday Gifting
As the holiday season ramps up, there’s something especially magical about stepping into one of Birmingham’s local toy and gift shops. Shopping local matters: The shelves feel more personal and the owners and employees know their inventory—and you. Check your list (twice!) and find a kid-approved present at one of the many businesses who give our community character.
Snoozy’s Kids
Jellycat plush toys are known for their incredibly soft and cuddly exterior, perfect for snuggling up with. See what’s new for the season in Snoozy’s Kids Jellycat collection.
Snoozy’s Kids in Crestline Village originally opened as a children’s bookstore, sprinkling in a few toys, in 1988. “We were already in the college bookstore business, and a children’s bookstore seemed like a natural move,” says owner George Jones. “We found that we were continually reordering toys and expanding our selection. We are now primarily known for our toys curated for our customers.” For George, that also includes the joy of witnessing multiple generations who come back to shop, as well as seeing customers bring their out-of-town friends in to pick the perfect present. You can count on Snoozy’s to have the latest and coolest for ages infant to teen, as well as grown-up gifts from the “george” section. Find George or any other staff member, tell them your child’s age, and they’ll have the hottest item in hand in minutes, and they’ll gift wrap it at no charge, too.
Homewood Toy & Hobby
Tricia McCain’s grandparents started the store 75 years ago, and she now co-owns Homewood Toy & Hobby with Julie Marix, who says, “The best part of owning a store in Homewood is the support of the community. We are blessed to have so many families in Homewood who choose to support local businesses.” They sell items they would personally buy and also make sure employees really learn the merchandise so customer service remains top-notch. I recently experienced this when shopping for a Christmas gift for my 2-year-old niece and came away with this award-winning cash register that brings money math to life through imaginative play.
The Learning Resources Pretend & Play Calculator Cash Register celebrates its 30th anniversary this year and encourages interactive play with life-size bills and coins, builds fine motor skills, and makes a real “cha-ching” sound when the drawer opens.
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF BRILLIANT
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF JELLYCAT
Hattie’s Toyland
Kelsee Philpot opened this Trussville toy store in August 2024, coming out of the “most challenging and meaningful season of my life,” she says. “My family and I poured everything into creating a space that felt hopeful and happy, not just for others, but for us, too.” Kelsee loves meeting the people of the community who come in to shop, like moms who bring their children for a just-because treat and the grandparents who are excited to find something their grandchild will love. “There’s something sacred about being woven into your community’s childhood memories—it’s not something I take lightly,” says Kelsee.
For hostess gifts this season, you can’t beat a beautiful hand towel, a top-seller at Darnell’s. They can personalize items for pickup the next day.
Darnell’s Fun Stuff
Located in Vestavia, Darnell’s Fun Stuff has been a staple of Rocky Ridge Plaza for 34 years. Owner Sherri Darnell credits their longevity to staying updated on all of the personalizing machines available, including monogramming and, engraving on wood, glass, and acrylics. “My favorite thing about owning a store is the relationships we have made with customers and being a small part of their celebrations year after year,” says Sherri.
Owner Kelsee Philpot recommends the Micro Scooter, a lightweight, three-wheel design with an adjustable T-bar that grows with your child and is sure to look great under the Christmas tree.
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF HATTIE’S TOYLAND
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF DARNELL’S FUN STUFF
Alabama Goods
What started as a website in 2007 as a source for Alabama-made corporate gifts has grown into a multistore operation, with locations in Homewood, Hoover, and Huntsville. “Our concept of selling products made in Alabama has been well-received by our customers and corporate clients,” says Sherry Hartley. “They see the value in supporting local artists and crafters.” Alabama Goods, voted Alabama Retailer of the Year, Best Gift Store, and Best Customer Service, maintains around 250 vendors in their stores.
This towel details symbols of the state of Alabama, like the camellia (state flower), yellowhammer (state bird), longleaf pine, pecan, the monarch butterfly, and more and is a great choice for locals and visitors alike.
The Blue Willow
Lynda Stout purchased The Blue Willow, located in Cahaba Heights since opening 26 years ago, in 2019. “It’s a neighborhood gift shop, and we get to see all of our sweet customers when they have gifting needs or just want a little pick-me-up. We keep our inventory fresh, and we always bring in new items so we have something for everyone.” she says. This includes a large selection of baby items, as well as home decor. The Blue Willow also offers gift wrapping and monogramming.
“We sell a variety of Beatriz Ball melamine,” says Lynda. If you’re looking for a stunning hostess gift or something for the recipient who has everything, a piece such as this one is multifunctional and ideally suited for indoor and outdoor entertainment.
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF ALABAMA GOODS
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF THE BLUE WILLOW
Wrapsody
Christie Howell acquired Wrapsody in 2017, though the Hoover location has been open for 21 years. With additional stores in Auburn, Homewood, Madison, and Trussville, Wrapsody covers a lot of local ground. “I think the best part of owning a store in Birmingham are the communities where we have stores—we are able to get to know our customers on a first-name basis and help them find the perfect gift for whomever they are shopping for,” says Christie.
Across their locations, E.Newton jewelry remains a top-selling gift item for Wrapsody, and a top-favorite gift item among recipients. The bracelets come in regular, extended, and kid sizes, so there truly is something for everyone.
“Our Biothane no-stink collars from Pups-Up are perfect for dogs who spend time at the lake, sports dogs, or dogs who just like to roll in things!” says Kim, noting they won’t pick up any smells and clean easily with soap and water.
Whiskers & Wags Pet Boutique
Don’t forget to stuff your pets’ stockings this season! Whiskers & Wags started at the Mt. Laurel Farmers Market in July 2011 and opened their brick-and-mortar store in Chelsea in November 2017. “We still have some of our customers we met back in 2011!” says owner Kim McCulla. “Our customers are like family, and we love getting to know them and their pets. We have customers whose pups we’ve seen grow up, customers who have gotten married and had kids of their own, and customers who have gone through major life changes. We love being right there with them, helping where we can.”
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF WHISKERS AND WAGS
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF WRAPSODY
Contri Brothers Gift Baskets & Flowers
This longtime family-owned business has been creating expressive floral arrangements and gourmet fruit and snack baskets for more than 100 years, notes president Mike Lorino. “We’re proud to design each basket and floral arrangement by hand with heart,” he says. “Our goal is to exceed our customers’ expectations with quality, value, and unbeatable service. The Contri family is committed to going the extra mile to make your gift perfect!”
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF CONTRI BROTHERS
President Mike Lorino says Contri Brothers is always striving to find new and exciting containers and products for their baskets, which are a huge hit with customers and recipients because you can gift a little bit of everything.
Editor’s Pick
In a world of screens, I’m always thrilled to discover an activity that will get my daughter (and her parents!) engaged and moving. In that spirit, she’ll be unwrapping a Nex Playground this Christmas. The gaming cube connects directly to the TV but doesn’t require any extras
Stay active through cold, wind, rain, sleet and snow with this “smart cube” that includes active games to turn your living room into an arcade, gym, dojo, theme park and more——just in time for those dreary, indoor days of winter. Learn more at nexplayground.com.
like controllers or headphones. Instead, everyone participates with simple moves that equal easy fun for the entire family. The system comes with five games and the option to subscribe for more, including experiences from Sesame Workshop, Hasbro, and Mattel.
Vestavia Students Receive German Consul General
Vestavia Hills High School welcomed the German Consul General from Atlanta, members of the Alabama Germany Partnership, and other distinguished guests to its campus this fall. Students in German classes opened a student art exhibit, a collaboration between an Atlantabased artist, an environmental organization, and the German Embassy. The partnership allows students to engage in global learning through art and culture.
Choir Performs for Community
Recently, the VHHS Ensemble Choir performed at the grand reopening of the Walmart Neighborhood Market in Vestavia Hills. The store made a generous donation in support of the choral program as part of their continued partnership with the school community.
VHHS Student Wins Debate
Debate team member Veronica Zhang has been competing across the country against the nation’s top debaters, and consistently places in the top 25. At a recent tournament in Minneapolis, Veronica placed in the top 8 and qualified in Lincoln Douglas Debate to the Tournament of Champions tournament in April, which is the pinnacle of high school debate.
Cross-Country Teams Win Big
Homewood High School’s Boys and Girls Cross-Country Teams recently won Runner-Up at State. Congratulations to both teams!
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF VESTAVIA HILLS CITY SCHOOLS
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF VESTAVIA HILLS CITY SCHOOLS
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF VESTAVIA HILLS CITY SCHOOLS
PHOTOGRAPH BY COACH KELLY MCNAIR
Teacher of the Year Finalists
Congratulations to the 2025 Shelby County Schools Teacher of the Year finalists:
Rebekah Austin—Oak Mountain Elementary School; Caycie Fields—Vincent Elementary School; Derek Dupuis—Helena High School; Robert Irwin—TEC; Katie Justice—Calera Middle School; Tracy Kies—Calera High School; Summer Lollar—Chelsea Middle School; and Julia Tanner— Oak Mountain Intermediate School.
Leadership Shelby Visits Schools
2025 Leadership Shelby County participants learned about the various school districts in Shelby County during Leadership Shelby Education Day. Participants started their day at the Shelby County Instructional Services Center, where they visited a Workforce Development Showcase featuring students and teachers from Alabaster City Schools, Pelham City Schools, and Shelby County Schools. They also heard from teachers during rotating education breakout sessions and a group teacher panel. Superintendents from all three districts spoke at a panel discussion at Jefferson State before the participants wrapped up their day at the University of Montevallo.
Spain Park Partners with Nonprofit
Students from Spain Park High School’s Engineering Academy partnered with the Hand In Hand Early Learning Program at United Ability to design and build customized electric cars for children with disabilities. With support from a Toshiba grant, the students worked alongside United Ability therapists to adapt each car so that every child could operate it independently, giving them new ways to move, play, and explore. Each car was uniquely designed, complete with a custom 3D-printed license plate featuring the child’s name. The cars can be driven by the child or guided with a remote control, ensuring independence and safety.
Student Selected for State Award
Oak Mountain High School’s Chase Lovell was recently selected by the Governor’s Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities as the recipient of the 2025 Student of the Year Award.
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF HOOVER CITY SCHOOLS
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF OF SHELBY COUNTY AL SCHOOLS
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF OF SHELBY COUNTY AL SCHOOLS
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF OF OAK MOUNTAIN HIGHSCHOOL
Students and Staff Honor Veterans
Students and staff across the Hoover City Schools District came together to honor veterans last month. From music and artwork to reflections, schools found many special ways to say thank you to the veterans and military families in our community.
Educators Selected for Grant
Hoover City Schools is proud to share that two of the seven educators statewide selected for the $500 Legacy Grant are from HCS. This special recognition celebrates the 100th anniversary of the Alabama State Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance (ALAHPERD), an organization that supports high-quality health and physical education programs across the state. Congratulations to Luke Kynard of Bluff Park Elementary and Brittany Thomas of Deer Valley Elementary. Both were surprised at their schools as their students cheered and celebrated with them. Their commitment to student wellness and movement is making a meaningful difference every day.
PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF HOOVER CITY SCHOOLS
December 5-7
DECEMBER EVENTS CALENDAR
The Magic City Nutcracker
Lights of Noel through January 4, 2026
Presented by Magic City Performing Arts, the Magic City Nutcracker is a volunteer-based community ballet that will celebrate its 12th production this year. A special school performance will be held that Friday morning. For more details, visit magiccityperformingarts.com.
Experience Alabama’s largest drive-thru animated light show. Grab some cocoa (find the best places on page 14), and head to the Birmingham Race Course for this magical ride set to synchronized Christmas music. For tickets and info, visit lightsofnoel.com.
Christmas Wonderland 2025
December 5-7, 12-14, 19-21
Turner Family Farms’ Christmas Wonderland fills the air with magic: Christmas lights, cocoa and sweet treats, Alabama’s largest Christmas tree jump pad, a corn barn, zip line, visits with Santa, cookiedecorating, the Turner Express Train, a petting zoo, classic Christmas movies on the turf, and much more. Visit turnerfamilyfarmsal.com.
¡HICA! Annual Tamale Sale through December 7
In Latino cultures, the ritual of preparing and sharing tamales at Christmas goes back for centuries. Since 2003, ¡HICA! has been carrying on that tradition in Birmingham with its annual tamale sale. Pickup is December 8-11. To order yours, visit hicaalabama. org/en/tamale-sale.
Christkindlmarkt through December 23
Depot Park in Cullman transforms into a German holiday wonderland with ice skating, a Ferris wheel, double-decker carousel, train, Alpine tubing, and more—including workshops and Santa’s Village. For more details, visit cullmanchristkindlmarkt.com
Santa’s Wonderland through December 24
Santa makes his festive return to Bass Pro Shops in Leeds with fun for the whole family. Free photos, crafts and ornament-making, and more mark this family favorite event. Find out more at basspro. com/b/santas-wonderland.
Glow Wild through January 4, 2026
Magic of Model Trains through January 2026
This beloved event chugs into McWane for its 20th year with more than a dozen displays featuring model trains of every shape and size—all meticulously designed to scale. There is also a miniature, true-tolife city with everything from covered bridges and downtown storefronts to a drive-in theatre and people waiting for a train. All trains included in the exhibit really work! The Polar Express will be on the big screen at McWane’s IMAX Theatre on December 14.
Holiday Shows at the BJCC
December 1-27
It’s the place to be this season, as the BJCC hosts Lindsey Stirling: The Snow Waltz Tour, an energetic theatrical show featuring violin, dance, acrobatics, and whimsical visuals; The Muppet Christmas Carol in Concert presented by the Alabama Symphony Orchestra; Trans-Siberian Orchestra: The Ghosts of Christmas Eve; Pentatonix Christmas in the City Tour; and Cirque Dreams Holidaze, a show that combines the world’s finest contemporary circus artists with dynamic choreography and storytelling. Find all the details and purchase tickets at bjcc.org.
Holiday Spectacular at Red Mountain Theatre
December 4-21
This annual celebration is a sparkly family tradition. Don’t miss 75 performers onstage singing classic carols and modern music, plus new surprises each year. For tickets, visit redmountaintheatre.org.
Helena Christmas Parade
December 6
The Birmingham Zoo’s holiday tradition, Glow Wild: An Animal Lantern Celebration, returns with more than one million lights, hundreds of handcrafted lanterns, and brand-new installations. Visitors can walk the mile-long journey through vibrant displays, enjoy festive snacks and drinks, and visit the Holiday Village on Henley Lawn to see Santa, listen to carolers, and take photos. Visit birminghamzoo.com for more info.
Join the City of Helena for their 54th Annual Christmas Parade. This year’s theme, “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” promises creative floats and community spirit as the parade makes its way through downtown Helena. For more information, visit cityofhelena.org.
every child takes center stage.
At Children’s of Alabama, kids are the center of our world and our mission is to provide the very best care available to every child. It’s why we are here.
