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...]
He’s Seen the Light: Eclipse Experience Persuades Smith’s Variety Owner to Keep the Family Store
By Sam Prickett It took a once-in-a-generation event to convince him, but Smith’s Variety owner Jim Glazner has decided against selling the iconic Mountain Brook toy store. Aug. 21’s solar eclipse was the deciding factor for Glazner, who had been planning to sell the store after his mother, Mary Anne, passed away in April. Mary Anne had run the store since the death of her … [Read more...]
Smith’s Goes Shopping: Jim Glazner Looking for Someone to Buy the Store and Run It Like Mom and Pop Did
By Sam Prickett It’s been 67 years since Smith’s Variety first opened its doors, and in that time the toy and gift shop has become something of an institution for generations of Mountain Brook families. But change is in store for Smith’s “very soon,” said owner Jim Glazner. He’s looking to sell the business, though he said it’s important that new owners maintain the … [Read more...]
Remembering Mary Anne Glazner
On April 13, a crowd gathered at Mountain Brook Baptist Church to celebrate the life of an influential member of the congregation and community, Mary Anne Glazner. Though Mary Anne passed on April 7, her giving spirit lives on through the impact she has had on countless members of the Mountain Brook and greater Birmingham community. Though a resoundingly strong presence in … [Read more...]
Toy Talks: OTM Toy Stores Put the Focus on Fun
By Emily WilliamsAt a toy store, one thing is always certain, things are going to be fun.Over the Mountain toy stores Homewood Toy and Hobby, Smith’s Variety and Snoozy’s Kids are in the business of fun, and this year that business will please both parents and kids alike.“I wouldn’t say we are selling educational toys, but that the toys themselves get your … [Read more...]