By Ingrid Howard When Beth White was growing up working at her family’s flower shop in Kentucky, she said she had no intention of making a lifelong career out of it. She just did what she had to do to “get the car” from her parents. But when her husband left the military in 1975, she rethought that position. “I said, ‘Honey, whatever you want to do, I’ll follow you … [Read more...]
Thankful for Community: Vestavia Rallies to Help the City Manager’s Wife, A ‘Newcomer’ Fighting Cancer
By William C. Singleton III At a recent Vestavia Hills football game, Penny Downes, wife of Vestavia Hills city manager Jeff Downes, was talking to a parent about what she hopes to accomplish as she regains her strength from treatments for multiple myeloma and prepared herself for the battle that lies ahead. Penny Downes mentioned that, because her immune system is … [Read more...]
Santa’s Helpers: Top Toy Picks From Smith’s Variety
Meet Jim How long have you been in business? Smith’s has been in business for 68 years, and I’ve only worked at Smith’s for 42. Smith’s opened up in 1950 in Homewood and then moved to Mountain Brook in 1962. What is the best thing about being a part of the toy biz? It’s being able to be a part of all the families and the kids’ lives in our communities. We’ve seen kids and … [Read more...]
Santa’s Helpers: Top Toy Picks From Homewood Toy & Hobby
Meet Tricia How long have you been in business? Homewood Toy and Hobby has been in business since 1950 (opened by McCain’s grandparents and later owned by her parents, as well). I have worked at the store since I was 14 and have owned the store for about 15 years. What is the best thing about being a part of the toy biz? Getting to play with toys and games and getting to know … [Read more...]
Santa’s Helpers: Top Toy Picks From Snoozy’s Kids
Meet George How long have you been in business? Snoozy’s has been in business for 30 years, as of August, in the same location. What is the best thing about being a part of the toy biz? Seeing our second generation of shoppers, that’s what is most rewarding. If you were stranded at the North Pole, pick one toy you would want with you. I would pick our biggest, largest … [Read more...]