It’s beginning to look a lot like…Christmas? Already? Where has this year gone?

In reality, it’s looked a lot like Christmas at the No’Ala offices for about two months. Almost as soon as the “Beautiful People” issue went to the printer, we started gathering the goodies we wanted to show for this holiday season. Shoals area retailers have some great treats for you this year, as you will see, and we were also able to collect and personally test some recipes for side dishes and desserts that will make an impression at your holiday table. It didn’t matter that we were cooking these dishes and gathering the Christmas gifts when it was still ninety degrees outside—we’re ready for the Holidays!

Although it seems that the time between Thanksgiving and New Year’s is dominated by holiday hustle and bustle, there are other things that happen around here during that time. One example is the Division II Championship Football Game, an event that has brought at least $26 million to the Shoals area since it was first played here. Along the way, it has transformed the way the NCAA Division II celebrates its championship teams, as you will see, and it certainly cements our reputation for Southern Hospitality. And how can you discuss Division II without talking about Division I, and UNA’s planned move to that level? We decided this would be a good time to take an in-depth look at what the move will mean, and writer Michelle Eubanks discovered it isn’t all about athletics.

Special thanks to Lynn and Randy Coleman, who let us take over their house to photograph the clothes for this Holiday issue. Thanks also to Grady Liles, Mickey Haddock and Mitch Dobbins, who spent time with us retelling the history of the Division II Championship Game. And finally, a very special thanks to the area retailers who were able to lend us the beautiful and wonderful things shown in our Holiday Buying Guide this year. If you’re looking for a unique gift, you’ll find it right here at home!

Now, a little holiday advice. Be sure to make time this year to slow down and enjoy the season. Read this issue carefully, make your shopping decisions early, and make it a point to buy locally. If you’re giving a Holiday party, pay special attention to Dan Halcomb’s Rules for Entertaining. Take in a concert or go see the dancing waters at Spring Park; join the festivities at First Friday or Third Thursday, and take note of the beautiful decorations all around the Shoals. Adopt a team and support them at the Division II Championship Game; cook and sing and decorate…and most of all, enjoy this wonderful season!