Good morning, Birmingham.

In 1982, a Birmingham department store installed a $500K computer to offer gift suggestions.

Shoppers answered a short set of questions on age, budget, and celebrity look-alike (like President Reagan, Robert Redford, and Princess Diana) to receive customized ideas from the store catalog.

The Better Business Bureau warns shoppers that many stores now use shorter return windows and strict receipt rules after the holiday, so return items directly through the retailer (and be cautious of third-party scams).

Jim Zeigler recounts how his parents, Bloise & Bernice Zeigler, started one of Alabama’s first choose-and-cut Christmas tree farms near Sylacauga in the 1950s using Virginia pines and other evergreens, creating a tradition that once attracted families statewide and even supplied the Governor’s Mansion in 1996.

Local mental health experts note that holiday meals may trigger distress for individuals with eating disorders as social pressures and comments on food and appearance add to seasonal challenges.

They advise families to focus on connection — a strategy to ease stress during festivities.

Georgia Southern and Appalachian State will face off in the JLab Birmingham Bowl on Monday at Protective Stadium, marking their first bowl appearance.

Festivities include a free JLab Fan Fest with fireworks on Sunday and a tailgate Monday morning from 9 a.m. until 12:45 p.m., with kickoff at 1 p.m.

Erin Mitchell Band Live Performance

5-8 p.m. — Elysian Gardens — $10 cover — Experience the soulful sounds of Erin Mitchell and her talented band in a vibrant garden setting.

19th JLab Birmingham Bowl: Georgia Southern vs Appalachian State

1-2:30 p.m. — Protective Stadium — Ticket prices vary — Experience the thrilling college football showdown in the JLab Birmingham Bowl.

New Year’s Eve Bash 2026

8 a.m. – 3 a.m. — Tin Roof — Various package prices available — Celebrate the New Year with live music, DJ entertainment, and exclusive VIP packages.

Be Worth Funding Bootcamp

8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. — Innovation Depot Inc — $197 — A full-day training for nonprofit leaders focused on sustainable funding and mission clarity.

Gentry Blue Live Concert

7-10:30 p.m. — The Nick — $7 Membership Card required — Experience the sonic depths of Gentry Blue's debut album 'Fragments'.

Hartley Deatherage’s SuperJam

8-11 p.m. — The Nick — Membership required ($7/year) — Enjoy a night of Alternative Rock at a renowned local venue.

C.A. Jones Concert

7-10 p.m. — Saturn — Ticket information available — Experience the melodic vibes of C.A. Jones with hits including Aquarius Moon.

JD Baker at The Fennec

5:30-8 p.m. — The Fennec - Sports Bar & Grill — Free entry — Enjoy a mix of acoustic vibes and lively jam sessions with local musician JD Baker.

East Tennessee State Buccaneers vs. Samford Bulldogs Basketball

1-3 p.m. — Pete Hanna Center — Free trial available — Catch the live action as two college basketball teams face off in a thrilling matchup.

Magic City Bitcoin Meetup

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Avondale Brewing Company — Free entry — Engage with local enthusiasts to discuss all things bitcoin.