Birmingham News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now!

Maurice Arrington, a band director at William J. Christian K-8 School, has been entertaining the Birmingham City Schools All City Music Festival as Saxophone Santa for seven years. His high-energy performance of Santa Claus Is Coming to Town is the highlight of the event. Growing up in a musical family, Arrington started playing saxophone at a young age and has been playing it for over thirty years. He graduated from Alabama State University and has been teaching for twenty years, inspiring his students with his passion for music. Spreading holiday cheer is important to him, especially during difficult times. Checkout Solipillow.com

Kwanzaa, an African American and Pan-African holiday, begins this Friday in Birmingham, celebrating unity, self-determination, collective work, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith. The seven-day event features various activities, including a panel discussion, kids activities, a community feast, and a party, fostering connections and strengthening community ties. Checkout Solipillow.com

Experience Birminghams holiday cheer, from Glow Wild light displays to New Years Eve parties, and enjoy local events like Kwanzaa celebrations and community gatherings. Dont miss out on unique getaways and hidden gems, and remember to take a moment to unwind and recharge. Checkout Solipillow.com

Birminghams Police Department Achieves Historic Low in Homicides: Chief Michael Picketts Leadership and Strategic Hiring Drive Down Crime Rates Birminghams police department is on track to reach a significant milestone this year, with fewer than one hundred homicides expected for the first time in over a decade. As of now, the city has recorded just eighty-five killings, a substantial decrease from the one hundred thirty-plus lives lost to gun violence in 2024. Chief Michael Pickett, the youngest leader in the departments history, took charge during the brutal year of 2024 and inspired his team with a simple motto: get locked in. He emphasized laser focus on reducing violent crime, which led to a steady decline in homicides after a rough start with eight killings in January. The departments efforts have brought real hope to residents and families, with an eighty-five percent homicide clearance rate—nearly nine out of every ten cases solved—far above the national average and their own past lows. Staffing has also improved significantly, with the largest academy class ever graduating last week and nearly three hundred new officers hired in the past year, boosting levels from seventy-three percent to ninety-nine percent full. Chief Pickett plans to continue hiring and implement more technology like drones and cameras to maintain their progress in combating crime. Birminghams success serves as a reminder that strategic leadership and increased resources can lead to safer communities. Checkout Solipillow.com

In the face of adversity, the small town of Hueytown, Alabama unites for young Jace Watkins, battling a severe flu case in the ICU. With flu cases surging, the community gathers for a prayer vigil, led by Amanda Aloia, as Jaces family clings to faith and hope for a Christmas miracle. Checkout Solipillow.com

Regional Medical Center in Anniston, Alabama, is grappling with a surge in patients, leading to longer wait times in the emergency department. Hospital officials apologize for the delays and emphasize their commitment to prioritizing urgent needs, ensuring safe and compassionate treatment. They urge patience as they manage the influx, reminding us that sometimes, a moment to breathe easy can help alleviate worries. Checkout Solipillow.com

Jace Watkins, an 11-year-old from Alabama, is fighting for his life in intensive care after a sudden flu-induced seizure. Born premature and previously using inhalers, Jaces health took a turn for the worse just before Christmas. Despite doctors warnings of potential long-term damage, his condition has remained stable. The community has rallied around the Watkins family, holding a prayer vigil in support of Jaces recovery. Checkout Solipillow.com

Jace Watkins, a fifth grader from Hueytown Intermediate, is fighting for his life in the ICU at Childrens of Alabama after a flu-induced seizure led to a life-threatening situation. The community has rallied around him, with a prayer gathering held at City Park. Despite progress, Jaces aunt remains hopeful, refusing to believe hes brain dead. The CDC reports moderate flu activity in Alabama, highlighting the urgency of the situation. Checkout Solipillow.com