Happy Monday, Birmingham! As we hop into a new week in The Magic City, let’s get you all caught up with the buzziest happenings in the city, including a Hallmark Channel movie being filmed, a new boba tea cafe opening and more.

Hallmark Channel movie filming in Birmingham till mid-December

What’s happening: There’s nothing like cozying up to a classic Hallmark Channel movie to get you in the holiday spirit. According to Film Birmingham, an initiative of Create Birmingham, A Hallmark Channel movie titled Naima in Nashville is filming in the Birmingham area this month.

Why it matters: It’s always exciting when Birmingham is chosen as a filming location. The production was seen on November 30th at Renaissance Records in the Five Points South neighborhood. According to Jessica Moody, director of programs and operations at Create Birmingham, they will be shooting the film at various locations in The Magic City up until December 15. 

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The Birmingham airport supports new Traveler Loving Canines program

What’s happening: The Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM) implemented a new program that brings Traveler Loving Canines (TLC) into the gates of BHM airport. The TLC teams are trained and certified through the Alliance of Therapy Dogs to offer comfort to travelers who experience stress and anxiety in airports or flying. 

Why it matters: Who doesn’t love snuggling up with some pups? The program will give anxious flyers an adorable way to ease their minds. The Comfort Dog program at BHM is starting small with six teams of volunteers. Once established, the airport will actively recruit other certified animals and volunteers to join the TLC team.

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After 21 years, final Mercedes-Benz Marathon Weekend to be held Feb. 10-12

What’s happening: After 21 years in the community, Birmingham hosts its final Mercedes-Benz Marathon Weekend, February 10-12, 2023. Participants and spectators are invited to celebrate the final race weekend, which includes:

• Full Marathon
• Half Marathon
• Marathon Relay
• The Bell Center Children’s Run
• Regions Superhero 5K
• The Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama Kids Mercedes-Benz Marathon

Why it matters: The impact of the Mercedes-Benz Marathon Weekend has been transformative here in The Magic City, with more than 200,000 runners participating over the years and over $5 million raised for local charities. The annual events have provided more than $60 million in direct economic impact for the Greater Birmingham region.

“This is not just some road race on a random weekend. The impact that the Mercedes Marathon has had on Birmingham and the North Central Alabama community for over 20 years is deep.”

Jennifer Andress, Homewood City Councilor

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Teaspoon, a new boba tea café, opens at The Summit

What’s happening: Boba tea lovers, rejoice. Teaspoon, a boba tea franchise, has officially opened its doors next to Ono Poke at The Summit.

Why it matters: This will be the franchise’s first location in the Southeast. Starting with a base of handcrafted boba tea, Teaspoon customers can create their own drink by adding egg custard, jelly and other add-ons along with their choice of milk, including organic whole milk and oat milk.

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Little Professor opens 2nd location at Pepper Place

What’s happening: Book worms, it’s time to head to the new Little Professor location now open in Pepper Place. Here’s what you’ll find at the brand new space:

• Fresh-brewed coffee by Birmingham-based June Coffee
• A beautifully displayed wall of fiction books
• Best sellers section at the entrance
• Fun kids’ section
• Tables and chairs for customers to relax, read and meet friends 

Why it matters: It’s fantastic to see this local shop expand. You can visit the new space at 2807 2nd Avenue South next to Billy Reid and Lefthand Soap Co from 8AM to 3PM daily.

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