Mackenzie Yoakum’s college volleyball story has many layers.
The former Homewood High School standout took an unconventional journey, beginning at Seton Hall University and later transferring to the University of West Georgia, where she found
By SARAH OWENS
both stability and meaning in the sport she loves.
She was recruited during a time when athletes were being granted extra years of eligibility due to COVID. Her commitment to Seton Hall nearly fell through, and she later entered the transfer portal.
Her experience is one of dealing with continuous adversity.
“I have had to learn how to stick up for myself and fight my internal battle of thinking I am not good enough,” she said. “It is much more than [volleyball],” she said. “It's about how you respond when life knocks you down at 17, and what person you’ll come out of it by 21.”
Things didn’t go as planned at Seton Hall, and she decided to enter the transfer portal after her sophomore season. She landed at West Georgia last year and took a redshirt season.
Photo illustration by Melanie Viering, map courtesy of Landmark Development.
Mackenzie Yoakum played college volleyball at Seton Hall and
Photo
ABOUT US
Editor’s Note By Sarah Owens
Things in Homewood are heating up — and not just because it's summer.
The long-running Creekside debate reached a turning point as developers withdrew their rezoning and development plan applications. You’ll find details about what that means for neighbors and the city’s growth on this month’s cover.
Election season is also in full swing, with several City Council seats and the mayor’s office up for grabs in August. Candidate listings are available in the city section.
Also on our cover, don’t miss part two of our series examining how the changing landscape of college athletics — including direct payments from universities thanks to a legal case — is affecting
student-athletes. In school news, learn how Homewood Middle School Assistant Band Director Mackenzie Owens balances music and motherhood. Over in business, meet new Ironwood chef Kirstyn Bielawa. In the events section, check out this year’s Tour de Cahaba. Finally, spring postseason awards highlight standout student athletes in the sports section, and Paul Doran is recognized for his service to the Homewood Public Library in our community coverage.
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Dynamic Wealth Optimization
Barlow Wealth Advisory Group (BWAG) is pleased to announce that Joel T. Barlow has been awarded the Certified Private Wealth Advisor (CPWA®) certification. In order to obtain the ability to take the exam used to certify applicants, Mr. Barlow completed classes offered by the Investments and Wealth Institute through The Yale School of Management.
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Mr. Barlow has been in the financial services industry for over 30 years, graduating from the University
of Alabama in 1992 with a BS in accounting. After practicing as a CPA with Wilkins/Miller in Mobile, AL, Joel assumed the role of CFO of a multi-state holding company named IPC Industries Inc. Over the next 12 years, Joel worked for several large investment companies (Hartford Life/Cantor Fitzgerald), securing capital for their lines of investment products. In those positions, he acted in an advisory role to many financial advisors/planners across the Southeastern United States. He received his Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) designation in 2011 and was awarded his ANSI National Accreditation of Certified Financial Fiduciaries in 2019.
400 Union Hill Drive, Suite 350 Birmingham, AL 35209
Phone: 205-732-9012
Web: www.barlow-wag.com
Email: info@barlow-wag.com
BWAG’s focus is on providing the comprehensive support necessary to make confident and educated decisions. In order to strive towards a completely holistic type of advice, we confer with our clients about all aspects of their financial lives including education funding, Social Security benefit planning, tax efficiency ideas like Roth conversions, Medicare insurance advice, IRS (or state) tax representation, and any other form of financial information that our clients may need in their financial lives.
In an era of increasingly complex financial landscapes, the stakes of managing wealth have never been higher. We believe that navigating this intricate terrain requires more than a traditional financial advisor. It demands a partnership that integrates the expertise of wealth management with the precision of tax planning.
An Integrated Approach to Taxcentric Wealth Management
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Municipal election set for Aug. 26 as city enters new form of government
By SARAH OWENS
With the Aug. 26 municipal election approaching, Homewood will see the long-awaited form of government change come to fruition.
Residents voted in September to approve the city manager-council form of government, so the new structure will see the city transition from a five-ward, 11-member council to four wards and five members, with one member for each ward and the mayor as council president.
The qualifying window for candidates opened June 10 and closed at 5 p.m. on Monday, June 24. Additional candidates could enter any of the city’s six municipal races until the deadline. A runoff election, if needed, is scheduled for Sept. 23.
This year’s ballot will include the mayor’s race and four city council seats, and all winners will serve four-year terms beginning in November.
As of the June 17 publication cutoff for this month’s edition, the following individuals have either qualified or announced plans to run:
MAYOR
► Jennifer Andress: A Homewood City Council member and Director of External Affairs for the Freshwater Land Trust, Jennifer Andress is campaigning on strengthening public safety, supporting Homewood’s nationally recognized schools, protecting parks and neighborhoods and providing responsive, transparent leadership for residents. If Andress is elected, she will become Homewood’s first female mayor.
CITY COUNCIL, WARD 1
► Tiffany McIntyre: A lifelong volunteer and West Homewood native, Tiffany McIntyre is running for office with a focus on preserving Homewood’s small-town charm while guiding responsible growth. Her priorities include strong
schools, safer and better-connected neighborhoods and transparent, family-oriented leadership. She has served with the Homewood City Schools Foundation, Homewood Athletic Foundation, local PTOs and the Service Guild of Birmingham.
► Paul Simmons: A member of the Homewood City Schools Foundation Board and co-owner of ice cream shop Neighbors West Homewood, Paul Simmons is campaigning on a promise to serve the city with integrity, transparency, and a deep commitment to listening to and representing residents of Ward 1. Simmons is also a member of the Mike Slive Foundation Board.
CITY COUNCIL, WARD 2
► Nick Sims: A Homewood City Council member and the Vice President of Allocations and Grants at United Way of Central Alabama, Nick Sims is campaigning on goals to improve communication between the city and residents
Homewood City Council member Jennifer Andress is running for mayor. If elected, she will become the first woman to serve as the city’s mayor. Photo courtesy of Jennifer Andress for Mayor campaign.
and working with the city as they build a new comprehensive plan.
► JJ Thomas: A longtime Homewood resident and small business owner, JJ Thomas is campaigning to improve public safety, transparent leadership, enhanced city communication and smart growth. Thomas is the founder and CEO of Class Action Capital, co-owner of Slice Pizza & Brew and developer of The Edge.
CITY COUNCIL, WARD 3
► Chris Lane: A longtime Homewood resident and founder of Homewood-based C Lane Company, one of the Southeast’s leading produce distributors, Chris Lane is campaigning on goals of increased transparency, public involvement and reform in how the city operates. He is also committed to protecting Homewood’s school system and collaborating with fellow councilors to restore public trust.
► John Manzelli: A Homewood resident
and Theatre Chair at the Alabama School of Fine Arts, John Manzelli announced his candidacy after leading a petition—signed by over 600 residents—against the Creekside development. His platform prioritizes redeveloping Brookwood Village, increasing transparency from Samford University and local officials, improving traffic and parking and promoting arts and culture in Homewood.
► Greg Cobb: A former director of building, engineering and zoning for the city of Homewood, Greg Cobb is running for council. Cobb was first hired on as a senior engineering inspector. He then had roles such as principal engineering inspector, plans examiner and eventually senior plans examiner. He retired Feb. 1, 2021 after 22 years of service.
► Keith Young: A 12-year Homewood resident and founder/owner of Change of Color, providing painting and home maintenance services, Keith Young is campaigning for fiscal responsibility, smart economic development, improved safety, supporting Homewood schools, environmental protection, park enhancements and honest representation.
CITY COUNCIL, WARD 4
► Winslow Armstead: A Homewood resident, Vice Chair of the Homewood Planning Commission, member of the Board of Zoning Adjustments and senior strategic account manager with Altec, Winslow Armstead is campaigning on a promise to listen and uplift residents’ voices and protect Homewood’s strong sense of community and small-town feel.
The Homewood Star will continue to track qualifying announcements and update readers on changes in the races. For ongoing coverage and full election details, visit us online at thehomewoodstar.com.
Homewood residents voted in September 2024 to adopt a city managercouncil government. The shift will reduce the City Council from 11 members to four — one per ward — plus the mayor as council president. Illustration courtesy of city of Homewood.
Homewood introduces new ward map for 2025 election
By SARAH OWENS
When Homewood residents voted to approve a change to a city manager-council form of government in September 2024, they subsequently voted for a change in the city’s ward map.
With the new government structure, the city will transition from a five-ward map with 11 councilors to four wards and four council members, plus the mayor who will serve as council president. That will make it a five-person body to vote on matters of the city.
The new ward map, redrawn by the state according to census data, will become effective in August ahead of the municipal election. The new Ward 1 will primarily cover Homewood west of Interstate 65, with a small section falling on the east side to Columbiana Road and south of Lakeshore Drive. Ward 2 covers the city north of Lakeshore Drive from I-65 to Oxmoor Road and Valley Ridge Drive. The Ward 3 border runs from Clermont Drive to Edgewood Boulevard,
South Forrest Drive and Saulter Road, splitting Crest Drive and touching Lakeshore Drive from around Shades Crescent Road to the west side of Montague Drive.
Ward 4 includes the rest of Homewood from Columbiana Road, South of Lakeshore Drive and into Shades Creek Parkway before hitting Mountain Brook. The western border runs along Montague Drive to Saulter Road before heading North along 18th Street South and stopping at Rosedale Drive.
New voting locations are as follows:
► Ward 1: Senior Center, 816 Oak Grove Road
► Ward 2: Board of Education, 450 Dale Ave.
► Ward 3: Homewood Public Library, 1721 Oxmoor Road
► Ward 4: City Hall, 2850 19th St. S.
To see which ward your address falls in, visit cityofhomewood.com/council and use the interactive map.
SCHOOLHOUSE
In tune with life: Mackenzie Owens balances band and motherhood at Homewood Middle School
By SARAH OWENS
At Homewood Middle School, the beat of the band doesn’t just come from drums and horns — it pulses through the dedication of assistant band director Mackenzie Owens. A music educator, wife, and mother of three, Owens seamlessly blends her personal and professional worlds, bringing not just talent but heart to the Homewood band program.
She made the move to Homewood City Schools after receiving a call from HMS band director Ryan Murrell.
“The way I landed here was I met Ryan 10 years ago, when we taught in Milledgeville, Georgia,” Owens explained. “I was an elementary music teacher, and my husband was one of his middle school band directors, and I was on staff after school with his high school band program.”
Though life moved her and her husband, Ethan, closer to her hometown of Carrollton, Georgia, as they raised their children, Carter, Addison and Anna, her career continued to flourish. After teaching part-time
around the band. “She’s just really at home at all the events. I’ve conducted concerts with her in her wrap and she’s been asleep, or she’s just been hanging out, chilling. Recently, I played at the high school concert with her sitting in my lap and I played saxophone and she just kind of sat there and just held it and stared.”
The kids are regulars under the Friday night lights, tagging along with their parents at home games, only staying with family or a babysitter when both their parents have overlapping away games on the schedule.
Owens says the involvement has made an impact on her kids and definitely sparked their interest in music.
Her kids aren’t the only ones being impacted, though, as she credits her students for impacting her life too.
“They make an impact on me, just like I make an impact on them,” she said. “I think they make me a better teacher, a better mom, a better musician.”
they want the best for their staff and Juggling motherhood and a demanding role isn’t easy, but Owens has found a rhythm that works. “The thing that’s really great about here is that my kids come with me. They’re a part of me, and they’re a part of what I do. They’re not a distraction, but they get to see a different role and different aspect,” she said. “The students here love them like they were their big siblings.”
Murrell sees her quiet strength daily. “She’s the kind of person who would put everybody else before herself,” he said. “She does so much for other people … I want other people to see what I see.”
That unique bond shows up in every corner of her life, even in how her one-year-old daughter Anna acts
Owens’ passion is clear: “My plan is to be here long term. I want to see this program continue to thrive and be as successful as it has been. It’s not going anywhere. We’re here for the long haul.”
Outfitting Birmingham’s children for over 70 years
Left: Ethan and Mackenzie Owens with their three children, Addison, Carter and Anna. Mackenzie Owens is the assistant band director at Homewood Middle School. Right: Owens, student Ellie Holm and Homewood Middle School Band Director Ryan Murrell. Photos courtesy of Ryan Murrell.
Your movement, celebrated
Step into confidence and community at Gradient Dance
At Gradient Dance Theatre & Community in Birmingham, people of all ages and skill levels experience the joys and challenges of dance training in a warm, supportive environment. The teachers at the studio believe deeply that dance is for all bodies and all ages and that everyone has a unique voice to bring to the floor.
Gradient Dance offers a wide variety of adult classes, including ballet and contemporary, as well as workshops with industry professionals, and “accepts all people no matter their background,” co-founder Taylor Ostronic said. “We offer classes for all types of dancers, and we love the mix of levels.”
The students at Gradient Dance are an eclectic mix of beginners, dance professionals and even adults who haven’t danced in years. “We wanted to be a safe place where adult dancers could come back to the dance world and feel loved,” co-founder Joanna Hardy-West told ABC 33/40 News.
In addition to classes, Gradient Dance offers students the chance to get involved in other ways. “We have avenues for dancers to teach, choreograph and perform,” Taylor said.
Taylor and Joanna founded Gradient Dance in 2018, and the studio recently
moved to its new home downtown at 518 19th St. N., Room 200, in First Church Birmingham. “It’s a more central location to serve Birmingham,” Taylor said. “It allows us to offer classes at convenient times, like lunchtime or earlier times in the evening, and allows people downtown to enjoy a quick, midday dance workout.”.
The Gradient Dance “vibe is relaxed,” Taylor said. “Joanna and I don’t subscribe to the scary dance teacher trope. We like challenging dancers to be kind to themselves while working on their technique.”
A rotating team of a half-dozen teachers lead in many different styles. “We have continued to grow and bring in different styles of dance so we can grow
our community of dancers in Birmingham,” Joanna said.
A Missouri native, Taylor earned a BFA in dance performance and choreography at The University of Missouri–Kansas City and has danced professionally. She became an ABT (American Ballet Theatre)-certified teacher in 2016, completed teacher training with the Royal Ballet School in London in 2023 and continues to train in different genres, including modern, hip hop, tap and ballroom.
Born in Georgia, Joanna majored in dance education at The University of South Carolina and worked as a professional dancer in Chicago and Portland, Oregon. Joanna came to Birmingham to dance for Arova Contemporary Ballet
Gradient Dance Theatre & Community
• Where: 518 19th St N Room
200, Birmingham
• Call: 205-202-1373
• Web: gradientdance.org
and later created Swallowtail Dance, a precursor to Gradient Dance.
People can gain a lot from dance, which is an art form and an exercise, Taylor said. “Dance is wonderful because it challenges your body and mind. We learn about our strengths and weaknesses through dance, and we challenge ourselves just a touch more and discover what edges we can smooth.”
Taylor and Joanna love what they do. “Between teaching, creating and encouraging others to share their art, we love seeing how the dance community in Birmingham grows,” Taylor said.
Business Buzz
BUSINESS HAPPENINGS
El Barrio and Paramount are now open in West Homewood. Located in the bottom floor of West Row Lofts & Townhomes, the new mixed-use development that replaced the old Econo Lodge, El Barrio brings its award-winning modern Mexican vibe, with a sleek dining room, private event space and a round booth made for sharing queso and tacos. Paramount delivers retro arcade energy, cold draft beer and a patio for outdoor seating. The two are connected by a shared hallway full of arcade games — and now are officially part of the West Homewood scene. West Row, located at 195 Oxmoor Road, opened in February and continues to welcome new residents to its townhomes. elbarriobirmingham.com, paramountbirmingham. com
Fun-Land Arcade and Snack Bar is now open at The Edge. Located at 815 Greensprings Highway, the arcade
is the latest business to join the family-friendly outdoor entertainment and restaurant development. Opened in Panama City Beach since 1953, Fun-Land has been a popular spot for families to visit while on vacation, and now they can do the same in Homewood. With over 100 arcade games, air hockey, pinball and more, The Edge’s newest tenant is located in the former Cookie Plug space. theedgehomewood.com
NEWS & ANNOUNCEMENTS
Ironwood Kitchen & Cocktails unveiled a new menu in June, launching a new chapter in the restaurant’s story as they are joined by new executive chef Kirsyn Bielawa. Located in The Valley Hotel in downtown Homewood, the restaurant pays homage to Birmingham’s industrial heritage with a menu inspired by fire. Menu highlights include cast iron appetizers featuring meats such as Lamb Lollipops and Pork Belly, housemade pasta, and entrees such as Bison Strip Steak, Beer Brined Chicken and Pork Ribeye. 205-354-0170, ironwoodrestaurant.com
Justin Craft, president of Nowlin & Associates in Homewood, has received the national Lester A. Rosen Humanitarian and Achievement Award from Ameritas, recognizing his leadership, ethical business practices and dedication to community service in the insurance and financial services industry. In conjunction with the award, Craft selected Hargis Christian
Do you have news to share about a business in Homewood or the greater Birmingham area? Let us know at starnesmedia.com/business-happenings
Camp in Chelsea to receive the Lester Rosen Grant, reflecting his passion for mentoring youth and supporting community initiatives.
ANNIVERSARIES
Art Alley, 109 Broadway St., is celebrating 25 years in Edgewood. The gallery specializes in art from around the Southeast and is open Wednesday and Thursday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. 205-879-1105, artalley.live
Sikes Children’s Shoes and Jack n’ Jill are celebrating four years in their current store, located at 2719 19th Place S. The clothing and the shoes are all under the same roof, but there is an entrance for the shoe store and an entrance for the clothing store. In the middle of the room is a cash register, and customers can walk freely from one side of the store to the other. 205-879-3433, sikesshoes.com
CLOSINGS
Twenty Twelve Formal Wear has closed its doors after three years in Homewood. The shop, opened in 2022, offered a selection of formal gowns for everything from prom to mother-of-the-bride and tuxedo rentals.
Little Professor closed its Pepper Place location in June after three years in the spot. The bookstore made the announcement in their newsletter in late May, saying a long-term tenant was secured for their current space, and they opted not to relocate within Pepper Place. As they close the location, they plan to refocus on their flagship store in Homewood, creating space for improvements and streamlining operations. littleprofessorbookshop.com
Home Instead leads the way
Helping Birmingham area seniors age in place with dignity and care
Home Instead is a long-established, locally owned business that offers the finest, most compassionate non-medical, in-home care services for seniors and their families in the Birmingham area.
Owner Dan Pahos was inspired to open Home Instead by his personal experience – caring for his own aging parents in Minnesota. He quit his job selling industrial supplies and opened the Birmingham franchise of Home Instead – the first in Alabama – in 1997.
His driving purpose in running the business hasn’t changed in 28 years.
“Our mission is to enhance the lives of seniors and those who love them,” Pahos said. “We give families a way to allow an aging loved one to age in place, in the comfort of their own home, wherever that may be.”
Based in Vestavia Hills, Home Instead stands apart from its competition, in part due to its extensive employee training. “Each CAREGiver receives a two-day, in-person, instructor-led training on all the equipment used in a home, and we know of no other non-medical agency in town that provides that level of initial training, as well as ongoing training,” Pahos said.
Home Instead offers the best customer service, with highly trained client service managers, including a social worker, who develop detailed care plans and provide ongoing case management. “This is all included for free in our hourly rates,” Pahos said.
Home Instead also has loyal, dedicated employees.
“Our administrative staff have an average tenure of 11 years, and several have been with me for 20 years,” Pahos said. “Many of our CAREGivers stay with us for 10 or even 15 years. We have the expertise and experience to help you deal with your eldercare situation, be it short or long term.”
“We have the best staff,” said Director of Operations Andrea Martin, who joined Home Instead in 2009. “We wouldn’t be able to run an effective, caring business without them. Each staff member matters and is so vital to the success we have with each client.”
Home Instead offers a wide range of services for seniors, including personal care, home helper, transportation and companionship services, as well as hospice support. The company also cares for seniors with dementia, chronic illnesses, arthritis and diabetes.
For nearly three decades, Pahos has found great satisfaction in his work at Home Instead.
“I've met so many of our wonderful elderly clients who still have so much to offer but just need a little help, as well as their families,” he said. “We feel it’s truly a privilege and an honor to be able to help families who desire for their loved one to age in place
SPONSORED CONTENT
• Where: 2059 Columbiana Road, Vestavia Hills
• Call: 205-822-1915
• Web: homeinstead.com/bham
Call today for a free, no-obligation consultation to help you decide the best care plan for your family.
with our seasoned, responsive staff that is available 24/7, 365 days a year,” he said.
“It’s so rewarding to know we can make a difference for seniors and help them age in place in their home,” Martin said.
Home Instead in Birmingham won the Caring Star Award for excellence in home care in 2018, 2019, 2020 and 2022.
Sips and Bites
The Homewood Star is spotlighting local restaurants in print and online. Submit your restaurant for consideration here: go.starnesmedia.com/restaurant-spotlight
GET TO KNOW SPOTLIGHT
Kirstyn Bielawa brings fire, finesse to Ironwood Kitchen & Cocktails
By SARAH OWENS
Ironwood Kitchen & Cocktails is blazing into a new era under the leadership of executive chef
Kirstyn Bielawa. With a blend of mentorship, culinary innovation and a menu rooted in Birmingham’s industrial heritage, Bielawa is redefining the Homewood dining experience — one flame-kissed dish at a time.
A seasoned chef with more than 20 years of experience, Bielawa’s culinary journey began early.
“My grandmother was sick when I was in fourth grade, and I had to cook,” she said. “I come from an Italian family, so on that side, we’re always cooking. And from there, I just fell in love with it. I was always putting dinners on the table, going shopping with my mom, and by the time I got to high school I was in the culinary program and went on to culinary team, and then I went to college. So from there, it’s just I don’t know what else to do with my life.”
Her career has taken her through kitchens in California and Tennessee, shaped by mentors like Thomas Keller, who emphasized discipline and curiosity. Now she brings that depth to Ironwood — and breaks ground as Valor Hospitality and SAVOR’s first female executive chef.
“This relaunch is about more than just introducing a new menu — it’s about rekindling a sense of comfort, connection and community,” Bielawa said. “Rooted in the rich traditions of Southern cuisine and brought to life through open-fired cooking, every dish is crafted with purpose and heart.”
Ironwood’s new fire-inspired concept goes beyond aesthetics. It’s a philosophy reflected in dishes with subtle smoked elements — from new woods under the grill to paprika in the mint chimichurri and chili crisps — celebrating both Southern tradition and modern creativity.
New signature items include lamb lollipops, fresh pastas made in house and a bison strip steak that showcases Bielawa’s love for game meats. A standout for her? “The pork belly bites are really good. We do an 18-hour brine on that,
They’re delicious.”
Her impact is also felt in the kitchen culture. “I’m very pleased with the way the menu has been executed and the way that the team has taken on the role, and very much have looked forward to doing a menu like this,” Bielawa said. “They have been out of their comfort zone in what they’re doing, and it’s a nice change. You see their smiles, and they’re lighting up as they keep learning. It’s exciting to see.”
Ironwood’s transformation extends to its ambiance — complete with a refined interior, craft-forward bar and a patio with firepits for relaxed, open-air dining. The beverage menu features seasonal cocktails, local brews and non-alcoholic options for all tastes.
“This new chapter of Ironwood is set to reinvent what contemporary dining in Homewood can be,” said Danny Hiatt, general manager of The Valley Hotel. “This innovative concept celebrates our Southern hospitality roots and cultivates a sophisticated place of craft that fuels a fresh and community-centered atmosphere.”
With fire in the kitchen and passion at the helm, Kirstyn Bielawa is building a new culinary legacy — where bold flavors, mentorship and a sense of belonging take center stage in the heart of Homewood.
By CHRISTIANNA HORNIGOLD
Urban Cookhouse and Farm Bowl, two Birmingham-born eateries, share a commitment to fresh, locally sourced ingredients and a community-driven approach. Founded by husbandand-wife duo David and Andrea Snyder, Urban Cookhouse was established in 2010. Drawing from their family traditions, David brought expertise in wood-fired meats, while Andrea emphasized farm-fresh produce, creating a menu centered on house-made recipes and locally sourced ingredients.
Urban Cookhouse’s signature dishes include smoked meats prepared on the Big Green Egg — a type of grill — scratchmade dressings and family recipes, such as their beloved brown sugar brownies. The menu, known for items like the Buffalo Chicken Wrap and the Grilled Chicken Special, reflects their dedication to high-quality, thoughtfully prepared meals. In addition to their Homewood location, the chain has eight additional locations and a Tuscaloosa-based food truck.
Farm Bowl, Andrea’s brainchild, emerged as a response to the lack of fresh, craft smoothie and bowl options in Birmingham. The company sources local honey, wheatgrass and produce to create vibrant, nutrient-dense offerings. Their Nutty Professor açaí bowl and cold-pressed juices have become local favorites, emphasizing a health-conscious approach without compromising on quality.
Both Urban Cookhouse and Farm Bowl actively engage with the local community, participating in events like Taste of Homewood and collaborating with area businesses. Farm Bowl also runs a philanthropic initiative, partnering with local brands and nonprofits to give back each month. As Farm Bowl prepares to expand to Hoover, both brands remain committed to delivering fresh, handcrafted meals while strengthening their local connections.
Andrea Snyder
Executive Chef Kirstyn Bielawa brings more than 20 years of experience in the kitchen to her new role at Ironwood Kitchen & Cocktails. Photo by Sarah Owens.
EVENTS
Save the Date
WEST HOMEWOOD FARMERS MARKET
► Where: 160 Oxmoor Road
► When: Tuesdays in July, plus the first Tuesday in August, 5–8 p.m.
► Call: 833-937-8493
► Details: The West Homewood Farmers Market is a slice of Americana that returns to Homewood each summer. The market features some of Alabama’s favorite food trucks and the best of local farms along with a variety of local artists, musicians and food vendors. According to their website, some of the over 60 vendors for the June 3 market include Cantina on Wheels, Eugene’s Hot Chicken, Farm 47, Karli’s Sourdough and more. westhomewood.com/about
WARBLER CONCERT
► Where: Wright Center
► When: July 12, 6 to 8 p.m.
► Web: samford.edu/wrightcenter/ events
► Tickets: $30
► Details: The Warblers were originally formed in 1929 as the boys glee club at Woodlawn High School. In the mid-70’s the group’s existence as a high school organization ceased to exist. In 1988, many of the group’s alumni decided to re-form this Birmingham musical institution, and it has performed consistently over the past 30+ years. This summer the group will perform at Samford’s Fine Arts Center along with the popular “Three on a String” ensemble.
► Details: The city of Homewood and the Homewood Parks & Recreation Board host the event in downtown Homewood to celebrate the Fourth of July holiday. Two blocks of 18th Street South and one block of 29th Avenue South will be blocked for pedestrian traffic and make way for rides and attractions. There will be a combination of inflatables/rides and a DJ will provide music and interactive activities.
► Details: The streets of downtown Homewood will be busy this month with the return of the city's annual Sidewalk Sale. This year's event will feature discounts from local businesses and a full day of shopping for those who wish to participate. Items will be on sale up to 75% off original prices. The Homewood Chamber of Commerce encourages shoppers to arrive early to snag the best finds at their local businesses.
► For more events news, connect with the Homewood Star online by scanning the QR code.
► Have an upcoming event to share? Email Sarah Owens at sowens@starnesmedia.com.
THUNDER ON THE MOUNTAIN
► Where: Vulcan Park, viewing locations around Birmingham-metro
► When: July 4, 9 p.m.
► Web: visitvulcan.com/event/ thunder-2025
► Tickets: Free
► Details: Pyro Shows of Alabama will launch more than 2,500 fireworks shells and effects in a 20-minute show synchronized to a patriotic soundtrack. Music will be broadcast on iHeartMedia Birmingham radio stations, including 102.5 The Bull, 103.1 The Vulcan, 103.7 The Q, Magic 96.5, News Radio 960 WERC, and La Jefa 98.3. The show will also air live on WBRC FOX6 News for viewers across the Birmingham metro area.
OFFICIAL MEETINGS
July 1: Arts Council. 6 p.m. at City Hall.
July 3: Board of Zoning Adjustments. 6 p.m. at City Hall.
July 3: Park Board. 6 p.m. at City Hall.
July 7 and 21: Finance, Planning and Development, Public Safety, Public Works and Special Issues Committees. 5 p.m. City Hall.
July 8: Planning Commission. 6 p.m. at City Hall.
July 8: Historic Preservation Commission. 6 p.m. at City Hall.
July 14 and 28: City Council. 6 p.m. at City Hall.
July 15: Environmental Commission. 6:30 p.m. at Homewood Community Center.
July 17: Beautification Board. Noon at City Hall.
OLS JULY 4TH FESTIVAL
► Where: Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church
► When: July 4, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
► Web: ourladyofsorrows.com
► Tickets: Raffle tickets
► Details: Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church will host its annual festival on July 4. The event will feature food, carnival games, a raffle and the always-popular Trash & Treasure rummage sale.
LIBRARY EVENTS
Mondays: Virtual Library Yoga with Jackie Tally, 2-3 p.m.
Fridays: Art Boot Camp, Room 109. 3:30–5 p.m.
July 8: The Show of Many Colors & a Chicken with Ventriloquist Barry Mitchell, Large Auditorium. 9:30-10 a.m.
July 9 and 23: Pokemon Go to the Park, Little Library at Homewood Central Park. 9–10 a.m.
July 10: Family Fun Night, Round Auditorium. 5-6 p.m.
July 11: Girls Self Defense with Homewood Police, Large Auditorium (registration required). 10–11 a.m.
July 21: Drum Circle, Round Auditorium. 3:30-4 p.m.
July 21: “Pitch Perfect” Sing-Along, Large Auditorium. 6-8:30 p.m.
Tour de Cahaba rolls out July 13 for riders of all levels
By SARAH OWENS
Tour de Cahaba, one of Birmingham’s most inclusive cycling events, returns to Homewood on July 13, bringing together cyclists of all ages, experience levels and bike styles for a morning of riding, followed by food, music and community celebration.
“This is all about community, bringing our cycling community together for just one local ride,” said Cahaba Cycles owner Faris Malki. “Get your bikes out, bring your family down. It’s a really casual, fun ride, and then we’ve got an awesome party afterwards. That’s what it’s about, it’s all about just giving back to our customers.”
MULTIPLE ROUTES, ONE PURPOSE
The event will include six route options, ranging from a laid-back family ride to a 65-mile tour of Cahaba Cycles locations across the metro area.
“We’ve got, like, this family roll, what we call the family slow roll, which is under five miles. And then we’ve got the full 65 miles, which is kind of the original ride that we did, and that one starts at Homewood and visits every Cahaba Cycles location except for Gadsden,” Malki explained.
Distances include 5 (slow roll), 10, 20, 35, 45 and 65-mile routes. The longer rides begin at 7 a.m., while the slow roll and 10-mile rides start at 9 a.m. All rides leave from the Cahaba Cycles Homewood location.
“It basically just meanders through Homewood, like Edgewood, basically, and back to
“This is all about community, bringing our cycling community together for just one local ride.
FARIS MALKI
of people on their bikes riding straight down 31. It’s kind of nuts, but it’s actually really safe,” Malki said.
“We have barbecue afterwards. We’re sponsored by Good People Brewing Company and Coca-Cola, and so we’ve got incredible food
butt, and then makes sandwiches right there,” Malki said.
REGISTER NOW
Registration is $35 for most routes, with the family slow roll being free or $10 if riders want lunch. Registration remains open until a few days before the ride.
“A lot of people get really intimidated by
Pork n Pedals. “He actually smokes the butts at his house all night and then brings them over that morning. He literally pulls the meat off the
Racers participate in the Le Tour de Cahaba. Photo courtesy of Cahaba Cycles.
SPORTS
All-South Metro Baseball
Jack Ross shares Pitcher of the Year
By KYLE PARMLEY
The quality of high school baseball in the Birmingham area is elite, and the 2025 season was no different. The annual Under the Lights All-South Metro Team is packed full of talent and could almost pass as an all-state team.
This year’s Player of the Year is Hewitt-Trussville shortstop Steele Hall, who has potential to be a high pick in this summer’s Major League Baseball Draft. Hoover’s Will Adams is Hitter of the Year, although he is another great two-way player for the Bucs.
Aiden Hughes of Chelsea and Jack Ross of Homewood share the Pitcher of the Year honors. Hughes led the Hornets to the state championship series, while Ross notched 10 wins to cap off a terrific career at Homewood.
Michael Stallings is the Coach of the Year, taking Chelsea to the state finals for the second time.
► Player of the Year: Steele Hall, Hewitt-Trussville
► Hitter of the Year: Will Adams, Hoover
► Pitchers of the Year: Aiden Hughes, Chelsea, and Jack Ross, Homewood
► Coach of the Year: Michael Stallings, Chelsea
1ST TEAM
► Pitcher: Aiden Hughes, Chelsea; went 9-0 with a 0.94 earned run average, while racking up 59 hits at the plate.
► Pitcher: Jack Ross, Homewood; won 10 games, while hitting .402 with nine homers and 49 RBIs.
► Pitcher: Bryant Diddell, Mountain Brook; one of the top strikeout pitchers in the area, punching out 85 hitters.
► Pitcher: Jackson Price, Chelsea; went 8-1 with a 1.74 ERA for the state runner-up.
► Catcher: Parker Daniels, Briarwood; led all catchers with 39 hits and finished with a .482 OBP.
► First base: Will Dobbins, Homewood; knocked in 34 RBIs and stole 16 bases.
► Second base: Cam Simpson, Hewitt-Trussville; finished with an impressive .514 OBP, knocking in 30 RBIs and swiping 20 bases.
► Third base: Gavin Smith, Vestavia Hills; hit .422 with five homers and 40 RBIs.
► Shortstop: Steele Hall, Hewitt-Trussville; an upcoming high draft pick, capping off his high school career with a .484 average, 60 hits, eight homers, 35 RBIs and 33 stolen bases.
► Infield: Charlie Taaffe, Vestavia Hills; hit .369 with five home runs.
► Infield: Noah Eady, Oak Mountain; picked up 36 hits and drove in 28 RBIs.
► Outfield: Will Adams, Hoover; got on base at a .608 clip and hit eight home runs as the top hitter in the area.
► Outfield: Jack Bland, Homewood; stole 39 bases and finished with 39 hits.
► Outfield: Cross Tonsmeire, Vestavia Hills; got on base at a .526 clip, scoring 34 runs and stealing 21 bases.
► Designated hitter: Jaxson Wood, Hoover; one of the top players in the area, hitting eight homers with 43 RBIs.
► Designated hitter: Seth Staggs, Briarwood; racked up 50 hits.
► Utility: Christian Helmers, Hewitt-Trussville; one of the top all-around players in the area, going 9-1 on the mound, while hitting .322.
► Utility: Caleb Barnett, Mountain Brook; last year’s Hitter of the Year put forth another strong year, posting a 1.61 ERA and getting on base at a .521 clip.
2ND TEAM
► Pitcher: Hudson Mitchell, Hewitt-Trussville; led the area with 11 wins, posting a 1.11 ERA.
► Pitcher: Jude Davidson, Mountain Brook; went a perfect 7-0 with a 1.48 ERA.
► Pitcher: Ivan Hand, Briarwood; posted eight wins without taking a loss, with a 1.46 ERA.
► Pitcher: Chase Rafferty, Vestavia Hills; went 6-2 for the Rebels.
► Catcher: Drew Ollis, Hewitt-Trussville; reached base in nearly half of his at-bats and hit .387.
► First base: Sam Estes, Mountain Brook; knocked in 25 RBIs and got on base at a
.418 clip.
► Second base: Finn Hecklinski, John Carroll; finished with a .476 OBP.
► Third base: Parker Johnson, Hoover; finished a strong year with a .491 OBP.
► Shortstop: Paul Barnett, Mountain Brook; finished with 35 hits and had a .453 OBP.
► Infield: Chase Lackey, Chelsea; knocked in 20 RBIs and stole 20 bases.
► Infield: Rhys Jones, Spain Park; put forth another solid season, finishing with a .472 OBP.
► Outfield: William Tonsmeire, Vestavia
Hills; got on base in half his at-bats, drawing 24 walks and swiping 18 bases.
► Outfield: Joe Cross, Spain Park; finished with 35 hits and 26 RBIs.
► Outfield: Will Weaver, Mountain Brook; knocked in 32 RBIs.
► Designated hitter: Cooper Huffman, Hewitt-Trussville; finished with a .351 average and 32 RBIs.
► Designated hitter: Will Langston, Vestavia Hills; hit .365 and drove in 31 RBIs.
► Utility: Houston Hartsfield, Briarwood; hit .327 and won four games as an all-around player.
► Utility: Levi Nickoli, Homewood; saved four games with a 0.98 ERA, while playing shortstop for the Patriots.
HONORABLE MENTION
► Pitcher: Cooper Anderson, Vestavia Hills; Wilson Szymela, Vestavia Hills; Will Daniel, Vestavia Hills; Colin Jones, Vestavia Hills; Patrick McQueeney, Spain Park; Charlie Kramer, Spain Park; Max Vinson, Spain Park; Baker Williams, Oak Mountain; Brady Sheppard, Hoover; Gavin Letcher, John Carroll; Jacob Francis, Hewitt-Trussville; Rylan Clark, Hewitt-Trussville.
► Catcher: Cooper Mullins, Homewood; Cade Mims, Chelsea.
► First base: Jacob Harris, Vestavia Hills; James Au, Hoover; Luke Neill, Chelsea.
► Third base: Blake Bales, Hewitt-Trussville.
► Shortstop: Cale McIntosh, Hewitt-Trussville.
► Outfield: Aiden Craven, Chelsea; Owen Edwards, Oak Mountain; Baylor Hardy, Hoover; Atticus Barton, Hoover; Cooper Dunn, John Carroll; Cam Graham, John Carroll; Will Clark, Briarwood; Koal Duckett, Hewitt-Trussville; Mack Breazeale, Chelsea; Noah Crosby, Mountain Brook; Carson Mann, Vestavia Hills.
► Designated hitter: William Yoder, Oak Mountain; Colby Durden, Hewitt-Trussville; Ben Roberts, Homewood.
► Utility: Garrett Barnes, John Carroll; Braxton Williams, John Carroll; Gabe Jones, Oak Mountain; Ben Heath, Oak Mountain; Paxton Stallings, Chelsea.
Above: Homewood’s Jack Ross (5). Left: Will Dobbins (6) and Levi Nickoli (17), below. Photos courtesy of Scott Butler.
Patriots, Cavs rack up spring sports accolades
By KYLE PARMLEY
The Alabama Sports Writers Association has released its 2025 all-state baseball team, recognizing some of the top performers from this spring.
Several standout players from local schools earned honors across Classes 7A, 6A and 5A.
Homewood’s Jack Ross was a first-team selection as a pitcher in Class 6A. Senior Will Dobbins also made the second team as an infielder after a strong season at the plate and in the field. Ross posted a 10-1 record with a 1.15 ERA, firing two shutouts. Dobbins hit .391 and drove in 34 runs.
The Alabama Sports Writers Association released its annual all-state softball team Saturday, recognizing the top players from the 2025 high school season.
John Carroll's Emily Williams made the list, as she was named an honorable mention utility in Class 5A.
Williams had a standout junior season for the Cavaliers, as the Southern Miss commit hit for a .414 average with 14 home runs and 52 runs batted in.
The postseason teams recognizing the top high school soccer players from the 2025 season were also announced, and several athletes from Homewood and John Carroll earned all-state and all-metro honors for their standout performances.
Homewood was well-represented on both the boys’ and girls’ sides. Gid Malone earned first team overall all-state, first team Class 6A all-state, and first team all-metro as a senior midfielder. Allen Shanks, a senior defender, was named second team overall all-state and first team 6A all-state. Junior forward Amon Kapelach picked up first team 6A all-state honors, along with honorable mention overall
all-state and all-metro. Fellow junior forward Stephen Villafranca landed on the second team 6A all-state, earning honorable mention overall all-state, and was named to the second team allmetro. Charley Chewning and Jacob Hill were named honorable mention all-metro as well.
On the girls’ team, senior midfielder Annie McBride was selected to the first team overall all-state, first team 6A all-state and first team A Division all-metro. Senior defender Hollis Tangye was chosen for the second team overall all-state and first team 6A all-state. Junior forward Meagan Tucker earned second team 6A
all-state and second team A Division all-metro honors. Juniors Ryanne Ezekiel and sophomore Kardyn Spears received honorable mention overall all-state recognition. John Carroll also had a strong postseason showing. Junior defender Ismael Jimenez was named to the second team overall all-state, first team 5A all-state, and received honorable mention all-metro. Senior defender JC Martinez earned first team 5A all-state and honorable mention overall all-state and all-metro. Sophomore midfielder Emmanuel Gonzalez and senior midfielder Georgie Lopez each landed on the
second team 5A all-state, were given honorable mention overall all-state, and earned all-metro recognition — Gonzalez as honorable mention and Lopez on the second team. Junior goalkeeper Walter Hungerpillar was named honorable mention overall all-state. Yeri Maldanado and Chris Lopez each earned honorable mention all-metro nods. On the girls side, Sophia Sevier and Tori Botthof were both named to the first team B Division all-metro. Olivia Sullivan made the second team B Division all-metro, and Mia Wos received honorable mention B Division all-metro.
Homewood’s Annie McBride. Photo courtesy of Scott Butler.
SPORTS
All-South Metro Softball
Letson, Williams named 1st team
By KYLE PARMLEY
The 2025 Under the Lights All-South Metro Softball Team, published by Starnes Media, aims to recognize the top individuals from across the area.
The Player of the Year honors go to Hewitt-Trussville’s Corey Goguts, who tied for the state lead with an eye-popping 31 home runs on the year. Katie Hopson from Chelsea, a true utility player, takes Hitter of the Year honors after sparking the Hornets offense.
Hoover senior Haley Westhoven is the Pitcher of the Year, finishing her career by leading the area with 13 wins for the Bucs. Her coach, Trey Matlock, takes Coach of the Year honors after leading the Bucs to winning Area 6, arguably the toughest in the state.
► Player of the Year: Corey Goguts, Hewitt-Trussville
► Hitter of the Year: Katie Hopson, Chelsea
► Pitcher of the Year: Haley Westhoven, Hoover
► Coach of the Year: Trey Matlock, Hoover
1ST TEAM
► Pitcher: Haley Westhoven, Hoover; tied for the area lead with 13 wins, posting a 2.85 earned run average.
► Pitcher: Kelsey Crain, Oak Mountain; posted the lowest ERA in the area with a 2.24 mark, winning eight games.
► Pitcher: Jaley Young, Spain Park; led the area with 110 strikeouts, winning nine games.
► Catcher: Lindsey Westhoven, Hoover; one of the leaders for the Bucs, finishing with a .404 on-base percentage and 33 runs batted in.
► Infield: Claire Robinett, Mountain Brook; hit .417 in her senior season, finishing with 40 hits.
► Infield: Marianna Murray, Mountain Brook; hit eight homers and finished with a .458 OBP.
► Infield: Sheridan Andrews, Oak Mountain; put together another strong year, hitting .421 with 10 doubles.
► Infield: Mollie Hanson, Hoover; one of the top hitters in the middle of the order for the Bucs, driving in 32 runs.
► Infield: Charlee Bennett, Spain Park; capped off her career with a .411 OBP.
► Outfield: Madison Letson, Homewood; put together a great sophomore year, hitting .576 and driving in 27 runs.
► Outfield: Reagan Rape, Mountain Brook;
caused havoc for opponents, hitting .600 and stealing 41 bases.
► Outfield: Reagan Lawson, Hoover; got on base at a .483 clip and stole 30 bases.
► Outfield: Evelyn Splawn, Vestavia Hills; hit .426, racking up 52 hits and stealing 23 bases for the Rebels.
► Designated hitter: Emily Williams, John Carroll; hit 14 homers with 52 RBIs.
► Designated hitter: Corey Goguts, Hewitt-Trussville; hit .521 with 31 homers and 78 RBIs, drawing 32 walks.
► Designated hitter: Sydney Carroll, Chelsea; hit seven homers and drew 20 walks as one of the area’s most feared hitters.
► Utility: Katie Hopson, Chelsea; hit .461 with 16 home runs, racking up 70 hits.
► Utility: Zaylen Tucker, Hewitt-Trussville; worked her way back from injury, hitting .448 with six homers and throwing critical
innings in the circle.
► Utility: Marian Cummings, Oak Mountain; hit .402 and won nine games in the circle.
2ND TEAM
► Pitcher: Maxie Provost, Spain Park; had a brilliant eighth-grade season, going 10-6 with a 2.98 ERA.
► Pitcher: Larsen Cummings, Briarwood; posted a 2.48 ERA and struck out 102 batters.
► Pitcher: Alaysha Crews, Chelsea; the top pitcher for a strong Hornets team, winning nine games.
► Catcher: Anna DuBose, Oak Mountain; capped off her career with a solid year and only made three errors in the field.
► Infield: Klara Thompson, Spain Park; hit six homers and stole 20 bases without being caught.
► Infield: Lorelei Beck, Chelsea; drove in
38 runs and was a solid pitcher for the Hornets as well.
► Utility: Molly Shea, Mountain Brook; Kate Flanagan, Vestavia Hills; Darcy Hill, Hewitt-Trussville.
Left: Allie Stuman (20) and Mia Gonzalez (16), below.
From left: Homewood’s Anne Hope Howell (14) and Madison Letson (15) . Photos courtesy of Scott Butler.
Lifelong advocate
Paul Doran honored with ALA Trustee Citation Award
By SARAH OWENS
Paul Doran never sought the spotlight during his 15 years on the Homewood Public Library board — but this year, it found him. His decades of unwavering dedication to the library received national recognition when the American Library Association named Doran the recipient of its prestigious 2025 Trustee Citation Award, an honor reserved for a single individual out of more than 60,000 public library trustees across the United States.
It’s a recognition Doran humbly accepts.
“That was different,” he said of receiving the award. “I thank our director and her staff for putting all that together, and I deeply appreciate that, but it was a total shock and surprise … I don't know how you evaluate down from 60,000 board members to one. I don't know how you do that.”
Doran’s modesty is matched only by his long record of service. Since 2010, he has served on the board of the Homewood Public Library. After completing the maximum number of terms, the board amended its bylaws to name him the only emeritus trustee in the library’s history.
His leadership spans far beyond simple board duties. Doran helped form the Homewood Library Foundation, an independent fundraising entity that has grown from five founding members to 45. “I brought that idea up in a board meeting,” he recalled. “And so I waited a few months … and I said, well, if y'all don't mind,
I'll just do it. So that's how it happened.”
Through the foundation and his advocacy, Doran has been instrumental in pushing forward vital improvements, such as the 2020 computer lab expansion. “We called it the dungeon,” said Library Director Judith Wright, describing the old basement computer lab. Thanks to Doran’s persistence and persuasive diplomacy with city officials, the library now boasts a state-of-theart technology center, complete with a spacious layout and additional study rooms.
“The library board, led by Paul, advocated for years to get the city to see the need to have a state of the art technology facility,” Wright said.
“The key to any organization that is run by the government is to get the funds in order to do what you need to do,” Doran said. “Our directors have been very successful on that. Can we use more funding? Yes, and the more funding we get, the better we're going to make things.”
His leadership also extends to honoring others. After the lab’s completion, Doran led the effort to name it in honor of retiring director Deborah Fout, a gesture that underscored his belief in recognizing the service of others. “That just kind of shows that he's making sure that the people who have done so much service to the library are being recognized,” Wright added.
Doran’s experience includes a teaching career that spanned over three decades, where he taught statistics, accounting and economics at Jefferson State Community and other institutions. His path to library leadership began indirectly — through civic involvement in Hoover and a chance conversation with a neighbor in Homewood. From that conversation emerged a new chapter in community service.
“I don't need to be the star of the show. I fit in. I can merge in and be a wallflower if I need to be” Doran said. “I always enjoy when I get to
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have my say … but this has been a really good, good thing for me to do.”
Wright said Doran’s support and attention to detail helped her become a better administrator.
“He's very modest, but really it's easy to see why he stood out of every single library board trustee in the United States, because there are some amazing trustees that I have seen, but he is here every day,” Wright said. “He talks to the staff. He cares. When he was board chair, he signed every library bill, he asked me
Paul Doran, emeritus trustee of the
Board, received national recognition when the American Library Association named him the recipient of its prestigious 2025 Trustee Citation Award.
questions, he made me a better director for the questions he asked me. And I just appreciate that attention, but I also appreciate knowing that he had our back, he had my back, and that that library board was 1,000% behind us.”
In turn, Doran credits the library staff for their hard work and dedication, saying it’s been a team effort to create such a strong library.
A public reception will be held in Doran’s honor on Friday, July 11, from 4:30 to 6 p.m. at the Homewood Public Library.
Homewood Public Library
Photo by Sarah Owens.
COMMUNITY
56 for 56: We’re in the home stretch
By TIM STEPHENS
Time’s almost up. When you read this, the weigh-in will be just days away — and I’ll be staring down the final miles of a goal
I’ve been chasing since January.
The public goal was clear: lose 56 pounds by my 56th birthday.
But that wasn’t the full story. Privately, the number I was chasing was 76. I had already dropped the first 20 before I ever went public.
Scan the QR code to watch episode 5 of 56-for-56: A Transformation Project.
This wasn’t just about optics or vanity — it was about proving I could still summon the kind of focus and discipline that had once come easily.
But more is in play now than in my 30s or 40s. Back then, I could drop 50 — even 100 — pounds with pure willpower. The truth is, this is the hardest it’s ever been.
Part of that is physical. At 55, the metabolism doesn’t bend as easily. Recovery takes longer. The tools that used to work like magic now need coaxing.
There’s also something new: For the first time, I’m doing one of these sprints knowing I have ADHD. I wasn’t diagnosed until I was 53 — which, looking back, explains a lot. There’s still a lot to unpack, but just understanding that has changed how I approach challenge and recovery.
A full-on ADHD burnout hit in the spring. I kept pushing — running six newspapers, navigating personal turbulence and refusing to slow down. I crashed hard. When I finally came up for air, there were just six weeks left — and I was still 30 pounds away from the public goal.
I could’ve written it off. Said it was too much. Blamed the schedule, the stress, the
age. But instead of walking away, I reset. In May, I got honest with myself. I built a plan — not just to push through the final stretch, but to do it smarter.
Here’s what the final sprint looks like:
► Nutrition: A high-protein, low-calorie liquid protocol — just 800 to 1,200 calories a day, with 240 to 260 grams of protein. It’s built around two large blended shakes a day (split into four servings), a combination of whey isolate and collagen.
► Training: Target: burn more than 1,600 active calories daily, on top of a 2,400 basal metabolic rate (BMR). That’s a 4,000-calorie burn target, driven by Hotworx sessions, kettlebell work, walking miles, and HIIT. The approach isn’t flashy, but it’s relentless.
► Tracking and recovery: I’m logging everything through MyFitnessPal. Whoop helps guide recovery. IV therapy at Prime IV helps support hydration and fat loss, while Hotworx saunas assist in both calorie burn and recovery.
Whether I cross the 56-pound finish line exactly or fall a few steps short, the real success has already taken shape. I’ve learned how to adapt — not just to age or to stress, but to the realities of neurodivergence. For the first time, I’m trying to win not with raw intensity, but with systems.
And maybe that’s the true milestone — not just what I lose, but what I learn to let go.
Join the Mission: Have you made a remarkable personal transformation of some kind or know someone who has? Nominate their story by emailing tstephens@starnesmedia.com.
Starnes Media General Manager Tim Stephens takes a progress selfie after a workout at HOTWORX. Stephens is in the final days of his effort to lose 56 pounds by his 56th birthday.
Photo by Tim Stephens.
Life in Homewood
GET TO KNOW
By STAFF
Q: Tell us a bit about yourself. How long have you been working at BP?
A: “I’ve worked here for nine years. I'm from Meridian, Mississippi. I've been in Birmingham since 1997.”
Q: What brought you to Birmingham?
A: “Trying to stay out of trouble.”
Q: You’re a big sports fan. Who’s your favorite team?
A: “Tennessee. Go Vols. I love all sports though.”
Q: How did Tennessee become your favorite team?
A: “Pat Summitt, the women’s basketball coach. In the summer of 1989, I became a Tennessee fan. I was crazy about her and I’ve just liked them ever since.”
Connect with Homewood Star online: visit our website, follow us on social media and subscribe to our newsletter.
BACK WHEN
Q: What’s it like being a Vol surrounded by all these Alabama and Auburn fans?
Rolanda Holt, Cowboys Jr. Holt
A: “It was hard at first, but I'm used to it now. People are starting to be more friendly here now.”
Q: What do you do here at the store? And what do you like most about your job?
A: “I cook, cashier and stock. I like the people that come in the store, especially the ones who talk noise with me about football.”
Q: What all do you cook here?
A: “For breakfast, I make biscuits. I do toast, waffles, hash browns, pork chops and chicken. And then for lunch, I do hamburgers, hot dogs, wings, pizza and pulled pork sandwiches. We have people who come in just for the food. I like that. I like to meet people.”
Union Hill Cemetery preserves legacy of Shades Valley’s early settlers
By STAFF
A quiet cemetery nestled along Hollywood Boulevard serves as a testament to the area’s early pioneers, many of whom played pivotal roles in shaping the communities of Homewood and Mountain Brook.
Union Hill Cemetery is the final resting place for numerous settlers whose influence extended across Jefferson County. Some of the oldest headstones in the cemetery date back to the mid-1850s — marking the graves of families whose descendants helped mold the growing cities around them.
To the east of the cemetery once stood the Union Hill Methodist Episcopal Church. Founded in 1867 near Irondale Furnace, the congregation relocated to Union Hill in 1873. The church building, completed a year later in 1874 on land donated by Pleasant H. Watkins, became a central gathering place for worship and education.
In 1928, the church underwent significant renovations and was renamed Canterbury Methodist Episcopal Church. Union Hill School opened inside the church soon after construction was completed. For years, the school served as an educational cornerstone for local children until its closure, which
coincided with the opening of Shades Cahaba School.
It remained a local landmark until its eventual demolition, which occurred during highway improvements to U.S. 280. Though the building no longer stands, the Union Hill site remains a vital link to Shades Valley’s past, preserving the stories of the families who laid the foundations for the modern cities that followed.
Union Hill Cemetery is the final resting place for numerous settlers whose influence extended across Jefferson County. Photo by Sarah Owens.
Rolanda “Ro” Holt is a cashier at the Cowboys Jr. gas station in Homewood.
CREEKSIDE CONTINUED from page 1
Landmark Development President Bob Dunn delivered a brief message and formally withdrew applications for the project at a June 9 Homewood City Council meeting, although developers announced plans to pull the $700 million project on June 5. The meeting was originally expected to be a long one, with numerous comments from city residents during a public hearing on the development. Instead, the meeting wrapped in under an hour.
For some residents, it’s a relief. For others, a missed opportunity. Either way, something has shifted — perhaps the future tone of development in Homewood.
WHAT JUST HAPPENED — AND WHY IT MATTERS
The Creekside proposal, once poised to reshape the Lakeshore Drive corridor with a bold mixed-use development, is now off the table. Following months of public opposition and deliberation by city leaders, developers withdrew their rezoning request and development plans before a formal vote. The decision marks a turning point — not just for one project, but for the broader question of how Homewood will manage growth.
It raises key questions: How will the city balance resident concerns with the goals of institutions like Samford? How do infrastructure, density and character intersect in a changing suburb? And what comes next?
THE PLAN THAT SPARKED A RESPONSE
A two-part plan, Creekside was pitched as “a vibrant, walkable town square that enriches Homewood with a variety of neighborhood amenities.” Creekside West would have included retail, office space, a hotel, Samford-affiliated housing and a pedestrian bridge linking Samford’s campus with the site. Creekside East was originally set to become the new home of Samford’s track and soccer programs, just east of Homewood High School.
The project aimed to bring new amenities and tax revenue to the city, complement Shades Creek and the nearby greenway, and help Samford grow and recruit students.
But the plan hinged on rezoning both sites. Creekside East needed to shift from a Planned Mixed Use District to an Institutional District. Creekside West required a change to a Mixed Use District, along with a height variance for the hotel. That request was submitted in March and moved through planning commission reviews and into public meetings.
The proposal drew scrutiny: a 150-foot hotel, 400+ housing units, new athletic facilities and millions in incentives raised concerns about environmental impact, traffic and even the future of the Homewood Soccer Club.
Homewood’s salamander population became a flashpoint, as Creekside East would have displaced their habitat. Developers responded by removing the athletic facility from that portion of the plan. An alternative — relocating the facilities to city-owned land off South Lakeshore Drive, currently used by the Homewood Soccer Club — also drew backlash. That option was quickly taken off the table.
With Creekside West the only active portion remaining, developers continued public engagement while searching for a new location for the eastern phase. They focused on the project’s potential economic impact and support for Homewood City Schools, but the public remained unconvinced.
PUBLIC PUSHBACK — VOICE, VOLUME AND PERSISTENCE
From the moment Creekside entered public discussion, Homewood residents mobilized. Community conversations, council meetings, messages to officials and social media threads fueled an organized pushback.
Residents expressed concern about traffic on Lakeshore, especially near Homewood High School and its student drivers. Others cited the hotel’s height, potential impact on surrounding neighborhoods and green space, and a lack of transparency in the planning process.
“A 150 foot tall building is completely out of scale with the existing developments all up and down the valley,” said Jeff Baker, who resides in a neighborhood bordering the Creekside West space, during a Planning
Commission meeting. “It’s out of scale with this development, and frankly — what is that? 15 stories at 10 feet a story — I don’t know where the closest 15 story building would be to this building but it’s too much for that community to bear and it’s too tall relative to everything else that’s going on up and down the valley.”
Developers hosted at least five public events. Still, opposition grew. Homewood resident John Manzelli launched a petition opposing the project, which gained over 600 signatures.
“Creekside developed its own life. It became this huge animal to work on,” Manzelli said. “At first, I just thought somebody needed to say something. It didn’t make sense to me. The numbers never made sense, and I just kept sort of showing up.
“I guess I bothered to show up, is what happened. And I started to get a lot of support from people behind the scenes, thanking me for doing that, asking me to do it more and more. The council and the town decided what they decided, and Samford made the decision they made. And here we are.”
THE DECISION TO WITHDRAW
As the project made its way through city channels, it drew scrutiny from officials, too. Members of the Planning Commission, Planning and Development, the Finance Committee and City Council all raised questions.
By May, the developer’s Community Investment Program request became a major
sticking point. The proposed deal would have returned up to 20 years’ worth of the project’s ad valorem lodging and sales tax revenue — capped at $26 million and excluding tax revenue earmarked for schools — to Landmark and Samford.
Many saw the ask as a tax incentive and questioned whether the project was financially viable if it required that level of support. Dunn said the funds would be used for infrastructure development, which cities typically finance.
At a May 19 Planning and Development Committee meeting, Councilor Nick Sims asked if the project could move forward without the incentive. Dunn replied, “Don’t believe so.”
While developers projected $401.9 million in new tax revenue for the city over 40 years, and $255 million for Homewood City Schools, they withdrew their applications just days before the June 9 hearing.
“Samford will continue to focus on its multi-phase master development plan for campus improvements to enhance campus lifestyle and promote an environment for academic and personal success which are essential to keeping Samford mission-focused and competitive,” Samford President Beck Taylor said in a press release. “The work we do to keep Samford on its positive trajectory benefits all of Homewood, and we are proud of our relationship with the Homewood community.”
The proposal wasn’t killed — just withdrawn. There was no timeline for a return.
WHAT THIS MEANS FOR HOMEWOOD
The withdrawal of the Creekside proposal places Homewood at a crossroads. The city continues to grow, but the project has forced a broader conversation about how that growth should happen.
Many residents worry about losing the small-town character that defines Homewood. Others see growth as inevitable — and fear the consequences of stagnation. The challenge lies in preserving identity while adapting to future needs.
With the August municipal election approaching, several candidates have already made development and public engagement central issues.
“The only way a project like this moves forward is through a true public-private partnership to realize benefits for the broader community, its residents and schools, as well as other civic anchors,” Dunn said in a statement.
BULLDOG DISTRICT — ANOTHER PLAN, ANOTHER REVIEW
Shortly after pausing Creekside, Samford introduced plans for a new “Bulldog District.”
The project included two student residential “villages” with three new dorms to accommodate enrollment growth. Samford requested height variances for all three — Stadium Village, West Village East and West.
On June 5, the Board of Zoning Adjustments approved one variance (Stadium Village) and denied the others. A public hearing on the proposal was set for June 23 — after this issue went to press.
Together, Creekside and Bulldog District underscore a shift in civic culture: Homewood residents are no longer passive observers of development. They’re active, engaged — and vocal.
A PAUSE — NOT THE END
What happens next is unclear — but not quiet. Homewood’s development landscape is entering a new era marked by public engagement and growing expectations for transparency.
Some residents view the Creekside pause as a win. Others see lost opportunities — for housing, retail and school funding. Most agree the conversation isn’t over.
As elections near and the city prepares to update its Comprehensive Plan, the next iteration of Creekside — or something entirely different — could emerge.
For now, this is a moment to regroup and reflect. In Homewood, development isn’t just about buildings. It’s about belonging.
Above: Creekside was pitched as “a vibrant, walkable town square that enriches Homewood with a variety of neighborhood amenities.” Illustration courtesy of Landmark Development.
Left: Landmark Development President Bob Dunn speaks about the Samford Creekside District Development at a community conversation event, hosted by the Homewood Chamber of Commerce, at Frothy Monkey on June 2, 2025, just days before developers withdrew the project applications. Photo by Sarah Owens.
Samford’s Bulldog District project included two student residential “villages” with three new dorms to accommodate enrollment growth. Illustration courtesy of Landmark Development.
CONTINUED from page 1
“I love my teammates, I am an hour and a half from home, I travel to some of the best cities in the South, and I’m part of the athletic media team,” she said.
Yoakum’s path reflects the resilience today’s college athletes need in an era of NIL, transfers and uncertain futures.
THE GAME JUST CHANGED
If you played Division I college sports in the last decade — or your kid did — this summer, money’s coming.
Not from boosters. Not from collectives. From the university itself.
On June 14, a federal judge finalized House v. NCAA, a $2.8 billion antitrust settlement that shatters the 119-year model of amateurism. For the first time, schools can pay their athletes directly — not for appearances, not through shell groups — but straight from university revenue.
If you are a fan of college sports, the games are now unlike anything you’ve known. And it starts now.
WHO GETS PAID – AND HOW
The House settlement triggers two historic changes:
Backpay: Any Division I athlete who competed between 2016 and 2024 can file for compensation. Payouts will depend on sport, tenure and school revenue — with football and men’s basketball expected to receive the largest shares.
Revenue sharing: Starting this fall, schools can pay current athletes up to $20.5 million annually. The cap will rise each year over the 10-year agreement. Most schools are expected to split it like this:
► 75% to football
► 15% to men’s basketball
► 5% to women’s basketball
► 5% to all other sports
This is not NIL 2.0. This is something else entirely.
NIL was always about outside money — sponsors, side hustles, booster funds. The House settlement puts the money on campus. Schools will now pay athletes from the same pool used for coach salaries, facilities and scholarships.
That makes it bigger. And messier.
Only the Power 4 conferences — SEC, Big Ten, ACC, Big 12 — were named in the suit. But all Division I schools must contribute to the backpay fund, even if they’ve never had a single NIL deal. Many smaller schools are already trimming rosters, adjusting scholarships and revisiting budgets. Some athletes will get paid. Others may get cut.
‘TRANSFORMATIVE LEGISLATION’
Birmingham entrepreneur and athlete advocate Jim Cavale has been tracking this shift from the beginning.
“In just the first year — from July 2021 to July 2022 — we tracked $350 million in NIL activity,” Cavale said. “And 90% of that was donor-driven funds funneled through collectives to pay athletes to play.”
Now, he says, things are even murkier.
“The biggest issue athletes face is confusing and misleading contracts,” Cavale said. “These so-called NIL deals are often
NIL vs. Revenue Sharing: What’s The Difference?
WHO PAYS? Third parties (boosters, brands, collectives) The school itself
STARTED July 1, 2021 Starts July 1, 2025
REGULATED BY? State laws, schools, and soon the College Sports Commission NCAA settlement structure, new federal-style oversight
GUARANTEED? No. Athletes must negotiate their own NIL deals Yes. Schools can directly allocate a set pool of money
WHO BENEFITS MOST? High-profile athletes, especially QBs, skill players All scholarship athletes, potentially across all sports
STILL ALLOWED? Yes, but will face more scrutiny from a new enforcement body
performance-based agreements in disguise.”
ESPN national analyst Tom Luginbill sees the same storm building.
“This is the most transformative legislation in college sports in the last 15 years — and it dropped with no guardrails,” he said. “(Resource-rich) programs like Alabama, Ohio State, Georgia can do whatever they want. Most others can’t.”
And he’s worried.
“What’s coming is this: players getting paid big money, surrounded by bad actors. Agents want 20–30%. A kid enters the portal, takes bad advice, spends the money — and doesn’t go pro. That’s the reality.”
NEXT: CONGRESS AND COURTS
Just days after the House ruling, a bipartisan group in Congress introduced the SCORE Act
— a bill that would:
► Cap revenue sharing and standardize disclosures
► Pre-empt state NIL laws
► Create a federal enforcement commission
► Affirm that college athletes are not employees
That last point might be the whole game.
The NCAA’s biggest fear isn’t payment
— it’s employment. If athletes are ruled to
be employees, everything changes: benefits, unions, workers’ comp, labor law. The House deal opened the door to paychecks. Congress is now trying to close it before anyone says the E-word.
But Cavale says the conversation still leaves out the people it claims to protect.
“These are being structured as NIL, not employment — and there’s still no agent regulation, no contract standards,” he said. “The athlete’s voice is missing. What’s really needed is collective bargaining.”
Meanwhile, legal uncertainty continues. The House settlement is not the final word — and may not withstand future challenges.
In June, eight current and former female athletes filed a Title IX lawsuit challenging the revenue-sharing model, arguing that its disproportionate distribution to men’s sports violates federal gender equity laws. More suits are likely. Title IX, employment law and due process could all play a role in shaping — or unraveling — the current plan.
NCAA leaders say that’s why congressional intervention is critical. The proposed SCORE Act would codify House into law, protect it from further litigation and preempt conflicting state-level NIL rules. But despite years of lobbying, no federal college sports law has ever
House vs. NCAA Settlement Explained
WHAT IS IT?
The House v. NCAA antitrust settlement marks the official end of amateurism in college sports.
Starting July 1, schools can pay athletes directly for the first time in NCAA history. The new model applies to current and future Division I athletes — not just those already on campus.
KEY TERMS
► $2.8 billion in back payments (2016-2024) to former D-I athletes
► The annual cap grows by at least 4% per year
► 10-year agreement: runs through 2035
► Roster limits: schools must reduce rosters to meet compensation caps
► Revenue sharing begins: schools can share up to $20.5M per year with athletes
WHY IT MATTERS This formalizes athlete compensation, bringing college sports closer than ever to a pro model — and away from the 119-year “student-athlete” model.
passed. For now, the policy landscape remains a moving target.
WELCOME TO NIL GO
On June 17, a new layer of regulation arrived: NIL Go — a clearinghouse overseen by the Collegiate Sports Commission and run by Deloitte.
Athletes must now report any deal over $600. Each gets reviewed for “fair market value.” If Deloitte flags it as inflated, it can be denied or sent to arbitration. There is no legal standard for that value. No consistent appeal process. Just a new filter between athletes and the opportunities they chase.
And that’s happening as university-issued paychecks are set to hit.
The result? Confusion, whiplash — and change.
Athletes like Yoakum have already weathered NIL, the transfer portal and scholarship uncertainty. Now they face something even stranger: a paycheck from the school they play for.
What that means — and how long it lasts — is still in question.
The checks start July 1.
The system? Still up for grabs. It’s not slowing down any time soon.
“With NIL expanding and the transfer portal becoming a more disposable route, I think that the use of the portal is being warped to fit what these athletes initially want out of their college experience: money and a good time,” Yoakum said.
To read part one of The New Playbook, go to TheHomewoodStar.com.
Mackenzie Yoakum (11) didn’t have the college career she planned for coming out of high school, but after a transfer from Seton Hall, she found a home at West Georgia. Photos courtesy of University of West Georgia.
Mackenzie Yoakum (5) was a multi-year standout on the volleyball court at Homewood High School, which led her to a Division I opportunity at Seton Hall. Staff photo.
Classes & Activities
Homewood Parks & Recreation
Central Barre
Wednesday 5:15pm & Saturday 8:15am
Homewood Community Center
Central Barre is a small group fitness class incorporating barre, core, cardio, balance, strength training and stretch to give you a complete workout in 55 minutes. We use a variety of small equipment such as weights, resistance bands, balls and sliding discs to increase variety and provide real results. ellyngagnon@gmail.com
Dance Trance
Saturday 9:30am-10:30am
Homewood Community Center
Dance Trance is a high-cardio, high-energy dance fitness experience that leaves participants soaking wet! It is a non-stop workout that feels more like a party than an exercise class. www.dancetrancefitness.com
Fun For All Line Dancing
Fitness Studio 2
Tuesday 2:30 PM – 3:45 PM
Beginner and Beyond Beginner line dance instruction encompassing a variety of music genres, e.g., pop, country and R&B. You will learn line dance terminology, line dance steps, and, of course, line dances to specific music. Homewood Community Center
$5.00 per person per visit funforalllinedancing@gmail.com
Senior Center
Tai Chi Classes
North Star Martial Arts
North Star Martial Arts primary focus is to make a life lasting impact on our students, and their families. Classes range from beginners to adults. For detailed class listings and times please visit the park’s website or www.northstarma.com. 205-966-4244 • info@northstarma.com
Cost: Classes are FREE (with donations) For more information contact Rosa at 205-253-9344 or benchaerobics@bellsouth.net
Royce Head
Personal Training
Affordable personal training available to members in the Fitness Center at the Homewood Community Center. Workouts are fast, fun, safe, and effective and each person is started with a program to fit their fitness level. Call Royce for more information: (205) 945-1665
YoLimber
Wednesday: 12:00pm-1:00pm - Warrior Sculpt Friday: 8:00am-9:00am - Basics Class Friday: 9:30am-10:30am - Regular Class Vinyasa yoga classes in an energetic environment using upbeat music at Homewood Community Center. All levels welcome. Contact Marla: 205-223-8564 • mac@yolimber.com
All classes are suitable for anyone who is willing to take the time to learn these beautiful, liberating and empowering sets of movements (forms). For additional information about Tai Chi Classes, contact Galina at: galinawaites@gmail.com
Sun Style - Tuesday at 1:30pm
Arthritis and Fall Prevention - Wednesday at 1:30pm
Yang Style - Thursdays at 1:30pm
Chair Fitness
Monday / Wednesday / Friday at 10:45am
Great for individuals with stamina or balance issues. Focuses on joint mobility, stretching, strength, & balance.
Senior Lunch Program
Weekdays, Noon-12:30pm – The lunch program does not require membership but does require enrollment (for ages 60+).
Fast Track Line Dance
Saturday 11:00am-1:00pm
Homewood Community Center
Fitness Studio 2
We learn the current and classic intermediate-advanced line dances.
*This class is not for beginners. Jackie Tally - jgtally@aol.com or Helen Woods - aquafool@aol.com
FIT4MOM
FIT4MOM Birmingham provides fitness classes and a network of local moms to support every stage of motherhood. From pregnancy, through postpartum and beyond, we serve our community by offering our fitness and wellness programs to help keep moms strong in body, mind and spirit. View our website for Membership Plans, Passes and Schedule. https://birmingham.fit4mom.com/
Argentine Tango Lab
Sunday from 4:00-5:30 pm
Weekly tango laboratory / practice for milongueros seeking to improve their dancing skills and explore interconnection, movement and musicality. Fundamental tango skills expected. Milongueros with all levels of experience are welcome. Non-marking shoes with leather or suede soles required.
Hosted by Chalo at the Homewood Community Center in Fitness Studio 1. $5 per class.
Misc. Information
Summer 2025 Pool Information
For all your summer pool information: membership, hours of operation, swim team, party rentals, swim lessons, etc Please visit: www.homewoodparks.com
