🎁 Your guide to shopping local for the holidays

🏞️ Indigenous Historian on Renaming Local Park

Cherokee historian Albert Bender joins the City Cast Nashville podcast to explain why he and other members of our local Indigenous community are working to rename Cumberland Park as Wasioto Park, a decision that Metro Parks is expected to make by Dec. 3. [🎧 City Cast Nashville]

🚌 WeGo Is Hiring Drivers & Mechanics

Now that the transit referendum has passed, WeGo is hiring more drivers and mechanics. For inexperienced workers, WeGo offers a three-year paid mechanical training program and an 8-11 week training course for drivers. [WPLN]

👶 Tennessee Ranks Low for Child-Friendly Policies

Tennessee ranks 49th in Vanderbilt University’s Prenatal-to-3 Policy Impact Center’s updated analysis. To improve, the state needs to implement paid parental leave, offer affordable childcare, increase wages, and expand Medicaid. [Nashville Scene]

📹 Metro Council Delays Security Camera Contract

Metro Council delayed its decision on using FUSUS by another two weeks after opponents spoke out at Tuesday’s council meeting. The surveillance company would allow police access to security cameras, and some worry that under a Republican administration, the system could be used to aid mass deportations, or to track women seeking reproductive care. [Nashville Banner]

Holiday season is here, which means present-shopping time. To support local businesses and artists, consider shopping at one of these fantastic neighborhood stores. We’ve got something for everyone on your list, from green thumbs to readers to foodies and more.

Best Holiday Market: Porter Flea

Head to this holiday market on Dec. 13-14 at the Nashville Fairgrounds for all your gift-giving needs. Or check out your neighborhood markets, like Amqui Station Farmers Market’s Jingle Bell Junction in Madison, the East Nash Holiday Bash, or Bellevue’s Holiday Market.

Best for Candles & Body Care: Thistle Farms

Support this nonprofit that aids women survivors by purchasing handmade candles, soaps, essential oils, and more.

Best Toy Store: Phillip’s Toy Mart

I came here as a kid, and it will forever be my favorite toy store. Located in Belle Meade, you can find something for every kid here, from the most popular toys to more unique ideas.

Best One-Stop Shop: McKAY’s

If you think this is just a bookstore, think again. McKAY’s sells toys, board games, video games, musical instruments, records, DVDs, crafts, and pretty much anything else. The best part is you can bring in your old junk, sell it for trade credit, and not spend a thing on presents. Full disclosure: I worked here for 12 years. It was my first full-time job!

Best Bookstore: Parnassus Books

In addition to all the latest best books, Parnassus sells book-themed socks, totes, and other great gifts for book lovers. If you’re in East Nashville, shop at The Bookshop and Novelette Booksellers.

Best for Art: 100 Taylor

This shared art community and workspace hosts an art market every third Saturday of the month. The next one is Dec. 21.

Best for Green Thumbs: Lawrence & Clarke Cacti Co

This woman-owned local plant shop sells more than just cacti. It’s the perfect place to find plant gifts, and the staff will be happy to give recommendations and advice.

Best Membership: Nashville Zoo

I’ve had memberships to several places around town, but my most-used membership is to the Nashville Zoo. It’s the perfect gift for parents or animal lovers. Also consider memberships to Cheekwood, Adventure Science Center, Frist Art Museum, and Belcourt.

Best Posters: Hatch Show Print

Hatch Show Print’s posters are so cool! You can order custom prints, too.

Best for Foodies: Loveless Cafe

Loveless Cafe has lots of tasty gift sets to choose from.