Lauren Harksen

The group wore Huntingdon red as they released balloons in memory of 20-year-old James Owens Jr.

Delyla McCay was released from the hospital Monday night and is said to be remaining positive despite her injuries, even smiling and laughing during her recovery.

All money collected from Christmas at the Falls is reinvested in the park, said Michael Rodgers, Gadsden Public Affairs Coordinator.

Founder Madison Johnson said she created the pantry after seeing the government shutdown continue and SNAP benefits at a standstill. She wanted to help her neighbors in need.

“They’ll be given a debit card that they’ll be able to use, similar to how they would otherwise use their SNAP benefit card,” City Council President Wardine Alexander said.

The emotional reunion took place at Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport with flowers, balloons and hugs as family members welcomed the travelers home.

The company blocked 130 bookings in Birmingham last Halloween, part of 38,000 deterred bookings nationwide.

“None of it fits us. It’s all too big for us and we couldn’t afford to enforce it. It would be a drain on the city,” said Corkey Massey.

“I’m thankful that we did not go but very concerned about my family as a whole. You know, because the six of them that are still there and so we’re just praying for their safety and for their return home."

Tots ‘N Toddlers Learning Center in Parrish is one of dozens of childcare centers expanding to meet growing demand. The center opened in July 2024 with five children and now serves 72.