Birmingham 🤝 Greenville

Good morning Birmingham!

When you’re an Auburn fan like me, the only excitement you get from the playoff is the drama surrounding the teams that don’t make the cut. And boy oh boy there is some drama this year! I couldn’t help but poke some fun at Notre Dame at the end of today’s newsletter 😆. Although Auburn is missing out this year, there is excitement brewing in the air with all the recent changes that has me hopelessly optimistic once again.

Speaking of excitement in the air, the holidays are getting closer and it’s beginning to feel more like Christmas (and Hanukkah) each day! If you’re not feeling that same holiday excitement, then get out and enjoy one of the many holiday events coming up. There are so many markets, parades, lighting ceremonies, classic movie showings, and more that it’s almost impossible to not feel the holiday spirit.

So whether you’re an Auburn fan, or just really love the holidays, there is plenty to be excited about.

Let’s get to it.

🎭 Jeff Dunham Brings Puppet Comedy to Birmingham

Master ventriloquist Jeff Dunham returns to Birmingham with his signature blend of sharp humor and beloved puppet characters at the BJCC. Known for his decades-spanning career and record-breaking comedy specials, Dunham has redefined traditional ventriloquism through modern storytelling that resonates with audiences worldwide.

Birmingham comedy fans will experience Dunham's iconic characters including Walter, Achmed the Dead Terrorist, Peanut, and Bubba J as they tackle everything from everyday frustrations to cultural commentary with biting wit and impeccable timing. His unique ability to merge classic ventriloquism with contemporary humor has made him one of the most successful comedians globally, drawing massive crowds to every performance.

This show promises an evening of non-stop laughter as Dunham's unforgettable puppet personalities come to life on stage. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to his comedy, this performance showcases why his viral videos and live shows have built such a devoted international following. Check show details and tickets

🥪 Ampersandwich

Ampersandwich is Avondale's neighborhood sandwich haven where every bite starts with fresh-baked bread from Birmingham Breadworks, making all the difference between a good sandwich and a great one. Since opening in 2021, owner Joe Phelps has been crafting a menu of classics and creative specialties, from hot pastrami piled high with Swiss and giardiniera to a Super Veggie that's earned rave reviews from even the most devoted carnivores.

Whether you're craving a Cuban, bahn mi, meatball sub, or chicken bacon masterpiece, each sandwich is built with quality ingredients and expert seasoning that keeps regulars coming back week after week. The cozy spot features an inviting patio perfect for enjoying your sandwich alongside a cold beer or glass of wine, creating the ideal setting for a leisurely lunch or dinner.

Open Monday through Thursday from 11am-3pm and 5pm-7:30pm, and Friday through Sunday from 11am-7:30pm, Ampersandwich offers dine-in, takeout, delivery, and curbside pickup to fit your schedule. With ample parking and prices that won't break the bank, this is the kind of neighborhood gem that makes you wonder why there aren't more Ampersandwiches in the world! (link)

🛋️ Stash

Treasure hunters, rejoice—Stash has been Birmingham's go-to spot for designer-quality vintage finds since 2020, and it's about to get even better! This beloved 1st Avenue South shop is packed with conversation-starting antiques, stunning tablescapes, and carefully curated pieces that range from tobacco leaf footbaths to vintage crosstitch samplers.

Owner Melinda Decker, an occupational therapist with an eye for details, lines, color, and character, has built a collection that's anything but cookie cutter. The best news? Stash is moving right next door to 100 25th Street South into a more functional and beautifully restored space, with both locations staying open during the transition and a grand opening celebration planned for January 2026.

Whether you're redecorating your home, hunting for that perfect statement piece, or just love the thrill of discovering hidden gems, Stash offers an experience that turns every visit into an adventure. Stop by Monday, Wednesday, Friday, or Saturday from 9am-3pm, or Sunday from 1pm-5pm to explore this treasure trove before it settles into its exciting new digs! (link)

Birmingham Leaders Study Greenville's Success for Local Growth Strategy Birmingham Business Alliance executives visited Greenville, South Carolina to learn urban development strategies that could boost the Magic City's growth. Key takeaways include strengthening public-private partnerships, focusing on downtown redevelopment, and creating workforce development programs that connect local talent with major employers like UAB and Regions Bank.

Central Alabama Water Holds Rates Steady Despite Financial Strain The utility approved a $214 million budget for 2026 with no customer rate increases, though new CEO Jeffrey Thompson warns of tight cash reserves at $32 million and years of deficit spending that must end. The utility remains locked out of bond markets due to ongoing litigation over its conversion from Birmingham Water Works.

Birmingham Vintage Store Stash Relocates to Larger Downtown Space The popular vintage boutique is moving from its 1st Avenue South location to a bigger, restored space at 100 25th Street South, staying in downtown Birmingham. Both locations will remain open during the transition, with an open house planned for January 2026.

UAB Partners with Local Club to Donate 800 Protective Helmet Caps to Youth Football Teams UAB Sports Medicine and the Monday Morning Quarterback Club provided Guardian Caps to Birmingham Youth Sports League teams to enhance head protection for young players. The protective covers, which cost over $100 each and function like "airbags for helmets," help absorb impact and reduce concussion risk during practices and games.

Homewood Advances Development Plans for Brookwood Village Area The city of Homewood is moving ahead with redevelopment initiatives for the Brookwood Village shopping center, marking a significant step in the ongoing transformation of this key commercial district. The plans represent part of broader efforts to revitalize and modernize the area's retail and commercial offerings.

Birmingham Mayor Takes Personal Approach to Help Homeless Woman Find Housing Mayor Randall Woodfin personally assisted a homeless woman in Linn Park, arranging transportation to a friend's house after controversy erupted over the city's removal of homeless encampments. The mayor outlined the city's four-step process for addressing park encampments, which begins with personal engagement before involving Urban Alchemy outreach workers, police, and finally Public Works cleanup crews.

Alabama Cracks Down on Package Thieves with Stricter Penalties New legislation in Alabama introduces enhanced penalties for porch pirates who steal packages from doorsteps and porches. The updated laws aim to deter package theft during the busy holiday shipping season when deliveries are at their peak.

Moody High School Parts Ways with Head Football Coach Jake Ganus The longtime coach has stepped down from his position leading the Blue Devils football program, marking the end of his tenure at the Alabama high school. The resignation was announced recently, though specific details about the departure have not been disclosed.

Birmingham's Ensley Neighborhood Transforms Through New Black Arts District Initiative Community organizers Jahman Hill and Eric Marable Jr. are leading efforts to establish a Black Arts District in historic Ensley, converting vacant buildings into galleries and studios while celebrating the area's rich musical heritage. The Flourish Alabama has invested over $1 million in local arts over five years, serving more than 6,000 people and securing $350,000 in grants to revitalize the neighborhood once home to legendary jazz venue Tuxedo Junction.

UAB Engineering Lands Major NASA Contract to Build Moon Sample Freezer The University of Alabama at Birmingham secured a $37 million NASA contract to develop a specialized freezer system that will preserve temperature-sensitive materials collected from the lunar surface and Gateway Space Station for return to Earth. The 66-month project, led by UAB's Engineering and Innovative Technology Development group, represents a significant expansion of the university's space technology capabilities.

Birmingham Fire Department to Deploy Body Cameras for Inspectors and Paramedics The Birmingham City Council approved a $173,000 contract with Axon Enterprises for body camera equipment that will primarily be used by fire inspectors and paramedics starting in 2026. Council President Wardine Alexander said the cameras will enhance investigative processes and provide better visual documentation for incidents like the recent Cobb Lane fire that displaced 19 residents.

Brookwood Village Mall Redevelopment Gets April 2026 Construction Timeline Homewood's City Council unanimously approved rezoning for the former Birmingham-area shopping center, clearing the way for Andrews Sports Medicine to transform the old Belk location into a 30,000-square-foot medical facility. The 1974-built mall struggled through retail decline and pandemic-related tenant departures before landing this healthcare redevelopment project.

Veteran Mountain Brook City Manager Joins Homewood Government Transition Sam Gaston, who retired after 32 years managing Mountain Brook, has been appointed as special assistant to help Homewood navigate its new government structure following a council reduction from 11 to four members. The 45-year local government veteran will review procedures and staffing while the city searches for a permanent manager.

Holiday Charity Efforts Support Local Families in Need Community organizations across Alabama are launching holiday giving initiatives to help families during the season. Meanwhile, local news includes a traffic incident in Odenville involving an 18-wheeler, the Bluff Park 8K race benefiting United Ability in memory of Emmett Connor, and new Hoover Police Chief Clay Morris discussing his leadership transition.

✨ Glow Wild | Birmingham Zoo | 11/22-1/4 | More
A magical mile-long journey through over one million lights and handcrafted lanterns celebrating nature, plus holiday treats, Santa visits, and special themed nights through January.

🎄 German-Style Christmas Market | Depot Park | 11/20-12/23 | More
Experience authentic German Christmas market traditions with southern hospitality, featuring handcrafted treasures, seasonal treats, and festive celebrations in downtown Cullman.

🎨 Storytime & Creative Play | Homewood Public Library | 12/11 | More
Fire up your imagination and tinker around with friends for some Loose Parts Play after Miss Erika's fun-filled storytime!

🎁 Local Holiday Artisan Market | 7954 Crestwood Blvd | 12/12 | More
Shop hand-crafted, one-of-a-kind pieces made by local artists and find the perfect holiday gift.

❄️ Friday Flurries with the Grinch | The Summit | 12/12 | More
Experience magical winter fun with faux snow flurries, meet the Grinch and Cindy Lou, capture photos with festive marquee lights, and warm up with hot cocoa at this free family event.

🛋️ So So Spiffy Warehouse Sale | So So Spiffy Showroom | 12/12-12/13 | More
Score luxury furniture, rugs, art, and accessories at below-retail prices during this monthly warehouse sale featuring curated pieces from around the globe.

🎵 Pink Floyd's Dark Side of the Moon Experience | McWane Center | 12/12 | More
The Black Jacket Symphony delivers a note-for-note live performance of the iconic album with stunning cinematic visuals sweeping across the five-story curved IMAX Dome screen.

🎵 Taylor Hicks MoonDance Show | Lyric Theatre | 12/12 | More
Birmingham's American Idol winner delivers soulful Van Morrison classics mixed with festive Christmas favorites in an intimate evening performance.

🎄 Christmas with Ruben Studdard | WORKPLAY | 12/12 | More
Join friends and family for a special holiday performance featuring the American Idol winner.

🎭 The Nutcracker Ballet Performance | BJCC Concert Hall | 12/13-12/23 | More
Experience Alabama Ballet's enchanting production of George Balanchine's classic holiday masterpiece in downtown Birmingham.

🏠 Holiday Gingerbread Contest | Vestavia Civic Center | 12/13 | More
Build your sweetest creation for just $5 entry, compete for cash prizes by age group, and enjoy free viewing with Santa on contest day.

🎬 Family PJ Movie Morning: Muppet Christmas Carol | Sidewalk Film | 12/13 | More
Come cozy in your pajamas for this family matinee featuring the beloved Muppet retelling of Dickens' classic, with light breakfast and drinks for grown-ups.

🎁 Saturn Holiday Market | Saturn | 12/13 | More
Browse handcrafted goods, vintage clothing, and unique memorabilia from 12pm to 4pm for perfect holiday gifts.

🎭 Narnia the Musical | Birmingham Children's Theatre | 12/13 | More
Step through the wardrobe into C.S. Lewis' magical world with memorable songs, dazzling visuals, and a heartwarming tale of courage and friendship perfect for all ages.

🎄 Trussville Christmas Parade | Historic Trussville | 12/13 | More
Join the festive celebration as floats parade through downtown with the theme "The Greatest Gift" and compete for prizes in multiple categories.

🎄 Holly Jolly Market | Moody Civic Center | 12/13 | More
Shop local crafters and artisans at this free holiday market featuring Santa photos from 11-2 and a food drive benefiting Shepherd's Supply.

🎄 A Pelham Hometown Christmas | Pelham Civic Complex | 12/13 | More
An all-day holiday celebration featuring free ice skating, a festive parade, tree lighting ceremony, pictures with Santa, and plenty of treats and activities for the whole family.

🎬 Holiday Movie Night: Elf | Cat-N-Bird Winery | 12/14 | More
Join us for Christmas music at 5pm, followed by the beloved holiday film at 6pm, complete with street food, bonfires, s'mores, and drinks for purchase.

🎄 Holiday Dance Party with DJKJ | Ferus Artisan Ales | 12/14 | More
Free daytime dance party from 12-2 PM with favorite holiday tunes, plus Grinch photos afterward on a first-come basis.