become of the long-vacant, school board-owned property east of Homewood Middle School on Valley Avenue?
By KELLI S. HEWETT
David Ball never expected honey bees to change his life.
A real estate developer and principal with The Dobbins Group in downtown Homewood, Ball picked up beekeeping about seven years ago after his wife, Libby Lassiter, took a course at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens and realized the hives might be better suited to his temperament. She was right.
“Working with bees, I’ve learned a lot about life,” said Ball, whose hives now produce about 1,000 pounds of honey a year. “I go out there, and I learn from them every day. They’re not a selfish creature. All they do is make our environment better. Then at the end of the day, they share their honey with us. How could it get much better than that?”
PATRIOT PARK
SAMFORD
SHADES CREEK GREENWAY
David Ball holds a jar of Moonstruck Divine Honey, produced from the hives he has tended for about seven years. Photo by Kelli S. Hewett.
Residents engage in roundtable discussions to give input for Homewood’s comprehensive plan.
Illustration by Ted Perry.
Jody Brant, left, and Tray Ivey present findings from their table discussion about Homewood’s comprehensive plan on Jan. 29 Photos by Solomon Crenshaw Jr.
Editor’s Note By Kyle Parmley
We’re officially “marching” into the third month of the year (I’ll see myself out now).
Terrible jokes aside, our country is set to correct one of its most egregious flaws this month. On Sunday, March 8, we will return to daylight saving time, as opposed to the nonsense that is standard time.
I know, I know, there are valid reasons for why we change the clock back in November for the winter months, but the sun setting at 4:30 p.m. in those dead months of November, December and January is just the worst.
We’ve heard about it forever, when politicians will grandstand about potentially moving things to daylight saving time permanently, but I’ve come to
accept that it will never happen.
Unlike politicians who will say things and never act, I hope to be the type of person whose words have action behind them. When I give my word to someone, I want them to have the confidence that I mean what I say and will follow through.
That’s one thing I’m striving for these days. What about you? As always, thank you for reading this publication and reach out to me at kparmley@ starnesmedia.com with any ideas!
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Please submit all articles, information and photos to: kparmley@starnesmedia.com
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and 18 clinical audiologists across 11 locations, including a new satellite office in Clanton, all dedicated to your care. We prioritize your health, treating every patient with personal attention and compassion.
We offer same-day, early morning, evening, and Saturday appointments. Call 1-888-ENT-5020 (1-888-368-5020), visit entalabama.com, or scan the QR code to connect with us online.
SOUTHVIEW MEDICAL GROUP IS NOW PART OF UAB MEDICINE.
One of the largest and most trusted physician practices in Central Alabama, Southview Medical Group has been serving patients for over a century and shares UAB Medicine’s mission to provide life-changing care.
•Primary and specialty care
•Easy scheduling by phone
•No referral required for primary care
•Expanded resources and expertise
•High-quality, value-based care
•Two convenient locations (downtown & Greystone)
We’re proud to welcome the physicians and staff of Southview Medical Group to the growing UAB Medicine family.
southviewmed.com • uabmedicine.org
CITY
Council approves fleet management study
By SOLOMON CRENSHAW JR.
The Homewood City Council adjusted its budget to commission a fleet management study during its meeting Feb. 9.
In making the motion to approve the $44,250 outlay, Nick Sims thanked acting City Manager Cale Smith and Sam Gaston, the special assistant to the city manager, for presenting the item.
The study by Mercury Associates will “review our fleet — not only our current inventory but what we may need in the future,” Sims said. “This is something we talked about quite a bit last term. This is a really great step forward in regards to looking at our budget considerations.”
Speaking prior to the meeting, Smith said analysis like this is what a city manager must do.
“That’s their job — to look at the organization and how we can make it more effective and efficient,” he said. “There’s nobody that’s had that job before. It’s the new job. It makes sense for the city manager to look at the organization as a whole and how we can be more efficient and effective. It’s studies like these where we have over 300 rolling stock out there. Do we need that many?”
The acting city manager, who applied for the permanent job, said the study will last three to six months. “But in three months, we’ll have a preliminary report that will help us budget next year,” he said.
In other action, the council:
► Granted permission for the Miss Alabama Organization to use the council chambers for its annual meeting.
► Gave permission for a tent to be placed in the city right of way in front of Trak Shak
from Feb. 19-23.
► Declared a 2020 Chevrolet Tahoe PPV as surplus.
► Approved an amended development plan for the proposed Homewood Community Church to permit the construction of a new two-story building of 30,797 square feet, as well as associated parking, landscaping and other site improvements.
► Approved an amended development plan for Brookdale University Park to permit the proposed construction of a pickleball court on the rear side of the Brookdale Senior Living
Facility, where there is currently a paved parking area.
► Approved the application for a $244,797.33 fiscal 2026 Rebuild Alabama Act Annual Grant.
► Approved the installation of a streetlight on an existing pole in front of 823 Cobb Street and behind Hall-Kent Elementary School.
► Approved the installation of a streetlight at the crosswalk at Greenway Trail and Old Montgomery Highway.
► Approved vouchers for the period of Jan. 27 through Feb. 9.
The crosswalk at Greenway Trail and Old Montgomery Highway. Photo courtesy of Google Maps
Homewood City Manager Cale Smith at the City Council meeting Feb. 9 Photo by Solomon Crenshaw Jr.
By KYLE PARMLEY, Photos by TED PERRY
The Homewood Piggly Wiggly, which had operated with little interruption since 1977, suspended operation at the end of business on Jan. 3. The store is expected to be closed for about seven months while it is being remodeled. Plans are for the store to reopen in early August.
Shown in the photos is the store’s progress as of Feb. 6.
Mayor’s Minute
By Jennifer Andress
Spring is nearly here in Homewood, and after a cold winter, one of my favorite seasons in our city is right around the corner. As the weather warms, our community calendar quickly fills with events that bring neighbors together and highlight the spirit that makes Homewood special. In the coming weeks, we’ll enjoy long-standing favorites like The Exceptional Foundation’s Chili Cook-Off, the Homewood-Mountain Brook Kiwanis Club Pancake Breakfast, Taste of Homewood hosted by the Homewood Chamber of Commerce, Homewood Grown benefiting the Homewood City Schools Foundation and the Hollywood Garden Club’s Home Tour. All of this excitement will culminate with We Love Homewood Day, which this year will also mark the kickoff of our centennial celebration. There is truly so much to look forward to.
This spring also brings continued progress on our Comprehensive Plan. We are looking forward to our next in-person meeting with the planning team in April and encourage residents to stay engaged. Information on how to participate will be shared through the city’s social media channels, through our monthly newsletter (sign up at cityofhomewood.com/subscribe-tonewsletter) and at connecthomewood.com. Your voice matters, and your input helps shape Homewood’s future.
In addition, the city will soon launch its
first-ever citizen survey. Feedback gathered through this survey, along with input from the Comprehensive Planning process, will guide decision making and help ensure we are working toward the priorities that matter most to our residents.
Another exciting milestone is the start of construction on the diverging diamond interchange at Lakeshore Drive and Interstate 65. This project has been decades in the making and reflects the hard work of many previous mayors, city councilors, our engineering department, and our partners at ALDOT, the MPO and Jefferson County. Once complete, this improvement will provide safer and more efficient access to one of our most important commercial corridors, improving traffic flow and supporting continued growth throughout the Lakeshore area.
Finally, by the time you read this, the city will have selected its permanent city manager following a robust national search. We received 61 applications and conducted more than 20 hours of interviews, led by HR Director Kim Kinder and retired Mountain Brook City Manager Sam Gaston. Their professionalism and combined decades of experience ensured a thoughtful and thorough process.
Big things are happening in Homewood, and I am grateful every day to serve such an engaged and caring community. I look forward to all that this spring will bring.
Business Happenings
OPENINGS
Bayt Al-Qahwah, an authentic Yemeni coffee shop, has opened at 425 Green Springs Highway, Suite 141, in the Edgemont Town Center. Offerings include both standard espresso bar drinks and international coffees, along with Yemeni Adeni spiced black tea and matcha. Pastries include baklawa, sabaya, croissants, cheesecake and more. Open late. 205-238-5301, baytalqahwah.com
NEWS AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS
AmFirst Credit Union recently announced three leadership promotions to support continued growth and innovation. AmFirst has a branch location at 110 Frankfurt Circle, near Lakeshore Parkway. Paul Hoffman has been named vice president of strategic initiatives, John Vaughn has been promoted to vice president of information technology and David O’Dell has been promoted to vice president of business intelligence. Hoffman joined AmFirst in 2016 and most recently served as vice president of audit services. Vaughn has worked in information technology at AmFirst for more than 13 years and most recently served as director of IT services. O’Dell began his career with AmFirst in 2008 and most recently served as director of business intelligence. AmFirst is a federally chartered community credit union serving more than 200,000 members across 21 locations in 13 Alabama counties. amfirst.org
Lakeshore Foundation, a Birmingham nonprofit organization, recently launched Lakeshore Consulting Services, a new venture designed to help businesses, nonprofits and
sports organizations strengthen operations, expand accessibility and create sustainable programs. The organization is based at 4000 Ridgeway Drive. Lakeshore Consulting Services uses a 4D Process — Discover, Design, Develop and Deliver — to create customized plans that help partners better serve employees and customers with disabilities. In addition to supporting accessibility efforts, the new service provides guidance for nonprofits in areas such as governance, operational management, strategic planning and long-term sustainability. Lakeshore Foundation, founded in 1925, is a U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Training Site and home to multiple Paralympic teams and community programs. lakeshoreservices.org, lakeshore.org
The Kiwanis Club of Homewood-Mountain Brook recently honored six members for decades of service to the organization. Recognized for 25 years of service were Chuck Kelly of Kelly Landscaping Architects LLC and Glenn Davis. Kelly and Davis both previously served as club president. Sam Gaston, recently retired as Mountain Brook city manager, was also recognized for his leadership, having served as president of three Kiwanis clubs and currently serving as lieutenant governor. Tim Chandler and Leland Keller were honored for more than 40 years of service, along with Tom Donaldson, who also marked 40 years of involvement.
Avadian Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Avadian Credit Union, recently awarded $50,000 in grants to organizations in Alabama. Avadian includes a branch at 475 Green Springs Highway and a business services office at 2200 Lakeshore Drive. Junior Achievement, Teach for America Alabama, the Literacy Council Central Alabama, Woolley Institute for Spoken-Language Education and Woodlawn United each received $10,000. The awards brought the total of grants given to nearly $140,000. Avadian is a full-service, federally insured financial institution with branches across the state. It serves more than 85,000 members, with assets exceeding $1.4 billion. avadianfoundation.org, avadiancu.org
CLOSINGS
Savage’s Bakery & Deli, a longtime staple on downtown Homewood’s main drag, closed Feb. 7 after 87 years in business. The bakery has operated in Homewood for generations and is known for original recipes including lace cookies, iced smiley face cookies, gingerbread men, cupcakes, custom cakes and butterflake rolls. Owner Van Scott Jr. announced his retirement after 47 years of ownership. Longtime customers lined up in the final days to secure a final taste of the bakery’s signature items. Savage’s, at 2916 18th St. S., has served customers across Homewood and the Birmingham metro area since 1939.
Hoffman
O’Dell Vaughn
Colon cancer’s deadly rise in adults under 50 makes early screening more critical than ever
March is Colon Cancer Awareness Month, a great time to learn more about preventing the disease — the second most commonly diagnosed cancer in America.
Screening for colon cancer is more important than ever because of a troubling trend with the disease, according to Dr. Chris Shaver, a board-certified gastroenterologist and partner at Birmingham Gastroenterology Associates.
“The risk of colon cancer increases with age, but it’s no longer just a disease of older adults,” Dr. Shaver says. “While rates have declined in older adults thanks to screening, we’re seeing a rise in younger patients — even people in their 30s and 40s — particularly those with a family history or other risk factors, which is why understanding individual risk is so important.”
New American Cancer Society data shows that colon cancer is now the leading cause of cancerrelated death in adults under 50. This trend is “incredibly concerning” and “reinforces the importance of earlier screening and awareness,” Dr. Shaver says.
Colon cancer screening is critical because the disease often causes no symptoms in its early stages.
Dr. Chris Shaver
“Patients should not wait for symptoms before getting screened,” he says. “When symptoms do occur, they may include rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits, abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss or anemia.”
Colon cancer is one of the most preventable cancers thanks to screening colonoscopy.
Colonoscopy is “the gold standard” for colon cancer screening, he says. “It allows us to
detect cancer early and prevent it by removing precancerous polyps during the same procedure.”
“Our goal is to make colon cancer screening as easy and stress-free as possible,” says Julianna Hallman, Director of Marketing. “We know it’s not something people look forward to, so we focus on helping patients feel comfortable every step of the way.”
Birmingham Gastroenterology Associates has 12 clinics and 11
procedure locations in Central Alabama, making it easy for patients to get screened close to home.
“Taking just one day out of your routine for a colonoscopy can make a lifesaving difference by helping prevent colon cancer,” Hallman says.
At Birmingham Gastroenterology Associates, colonoscopy is one of many services offered as part of a comprehensive approach to digestive health, from preventive screenings and advanced procedures to the treatment of a wide range of gastrointestinal conditions.
“The most important message is that colon cancer is highly preventable,” Dr. Shaver says. “Screening doesn’t just find cancer early, it can stop it before it starts. It’s also important not to ignore symptoms or brush things off if something doesn’t feel right.
Getting screened at the right time can truly save lives.”
REAL ESTATE GUIDE
Housing prices, sales increase across Homewood
By LAUREN H. DOWDLE
With housing sales on the rise, buyers and sellers are showing more confidence in Homewood real estate to start the year. The market has continued to show strong momentum and buyer demand, said Dina Hendrix, Realtor at ARC Realty.
“According to local MLS data, the median sales price is up 6% year over year, and the number of homes sold in Homewood increased by 8% since last spring,” Hendrix said. “Despite this growth, inventory still remains relatively low, making it an especially strong time for sellers to list their homes.”
The state also saw a 4% increase in home sales in 2025, with the median sales price increasing 10% to about $234,000, according to the Annual Alabama Economic and Real Estate Report released by the Alabama Association of Realtors.
After having limited inventory for a long time and with interest rates starting to decrease, the real estate market in Homewood is expecting a solid year, said Liza Roitman, Realtor at The Fred Smith Group at RealtySouth. There have already been off-market sales and bidding wars happening the first day a house goes on the market.
“I think with rates starting to go down, those that have been hesitant to sell because they are sitting at 3% are starting to get cramped by their current situation and also feel like they will have more buyers for their house now that rates have started to ease a bit,” Roitman said. “We are hoping it encourages more people to sell and more new buyers to enter the market.”
Homes that are priced right and show well are moving fast, said Marshall Malone, Realtor at ARC Realty.
“The ones that test the market get tested by it,” Malone said. “Launch strong, or plan to adjust. Price just under the average market comp. That will attract more buyers and possibly more offers, which drive the price upward.”
Buyer interest and activity are increasing, which Hendrix said is a normal pattern during this time of the year. However, Homewood still needs more sellers to help balance the market and give buyers more options, she said.
Mortgage rates are also influencing behaviors on both sides of the market right now, Hendrix said. Buyers who previously paused their
searches are now starting to reenter the market, which is contributing to renewed activity and increased competition.
“On the seller side, this shift is creating more confidence,” Hendrix said. “Homeowners who were hesitant to list, often due to concerns about affordability on their next purchase, are starting to feel more comfortable making a move as borrowing costs trend downward.”
When heading into the market, Hendrix encourages buyers to be prepared by having a mortgage pre-approval in place, acting early, preparing for the possibility of multiple offers
and building a relationship with a trusted local Realtor.
For homeowners looking to sell, Hendrix encourages them not to wait. “Inventory remains limited, and with mortgage interest rates easing, motivated spring buyers are returning to the market,” she said.
Whether looking to buy or sell a home in Homewood, it’s important to partner with a Realtor who is connected to the community.
“Local agents generally have the best info and know the most people to get the word out on your house,” Roitman said.
Best ways to prepare your home before listing
By LAUREN H. DOWDLE
A picture might be worth a thousand words, but when it comes to the real estate market, those photographs can be even more valuable during the home-selling process. That’s why preparing the space and staging matter so much before photographing a home to put it on the market, said Dina Hendrix, Realtor at ARC Realty.
“In today’s market, it’s the photographs that first capture a buyer’s attention and motivate them to schedule a showing,” Hendrix said. “Staging plays a critical role in that process. Well-staged homes tend to photograph better, generate more interest and ultimately drive more showings, which can translate into stronger offers and quicker sales.”
In addition to deep cleaning the house and
finishing any needed repairs, homeowners should also declutter and depersonalize each room. Not only will that help potential buyers visualize themselves in the home, but it can also make the space look more attractive in pictures.
“I think what sellers sometimes don’t understand is that photography captures clutter more harshly than the naked eye,” Hendrix said. “The camera flattens a space, exaggerates visual noise and picks up small details your eye naturally filters out. So extra furniture, personal items, patterned pillows, blankets, or tabletop and countertop clutter all tend to look more obvious and distracting in photos.”
Simple preparations like removing items from kitchen and bathroom countertops, reducing the number of items in the closet to make it appear more spacious, removing family photos and reducing the amount of furniture in each
room can have a big impact.
“Homes that are priced correctly and properly staged, whether with a professional staging company or owner-assisted staging with a Realtor, both showcase a home at its best and are generating the strongest interest,” Hendrix said.
Once they’ve prepared the home by cleaning, decluttering and making repairs, homeowners need to ensure the home is priced right based on current listings and days on the market — not last year’s comps, said Marshall Malone, Realtor at ARC Realty.
“The first 10 days are your leverage window, so launch strong and have a clear plan for where you’re going next,” Malone said.
Finding a local agent who knows the market is another important step, said Liza Roitman, Realtor at The Fred Smith Group at RealtySouth.
“Have an agent come walk through your home and point out things that need to be touched up, fixed or moved before listing, as well as come up with an appropriate price,” Roitman said. “Buyers’ first impressions are very important, and that along with a competitive pricing strategy could determine if your house sits for a while or sells at or over list price.”
While the inside of the home is the focus, homeowners shouldn’t forget about the outside and first impressions, said Ellen Hottel, Realtor at eXp Realty. Small things like replacing the welcome mat, maintaining the lawn, painting the front door and touching up the mailbox can make a big impact.
“Buyers would prefer to pay a premium price for a move-in ready home rather than a home that needs work,” Hottel said.
Stock photo.
Stock photos.
GET TO KNOW
Homewood High student, author Angelina Grace Chicnes Pizarro
By APRIL COFFEY
Q: Tell our readers about yourself.
A: I am the youngest of five. I come from Peruvian ancestry, and I love hanging out with my friends. … I spend lots of time reading, in the Dawson choir and … with Musmi, a family friend who’s like my grandmother. I love spending time with Ashley, my sister, and teaching her the psychology portion of the MCAT. … I aid in my mother’s nonprofit, Warming Hearts, set in Lima, Peru, helping low-income students by distributing school supplies.
Q: What inspired you to write your book “Breaking Codes”?
A: I am a stubborn learner, which comes with good and bad things, but I was always placed in circumstances where people would say “male-dominated” or “predominantly white” institute when touring colleges. When I put three APs on my schedule, I was recommended not to because there was too much pressure and people learned computer science beforehand. So I chose not to listen, and I wanted to learn more than anything. When someone said “not likely,” I went for it, or “impossible,” I fought for it … to show … that knowledge has no boundary, skillset, gender or race.
Q: Was there a specific moment when you realized, “I actually belong in this world of technology”?
A: When I finished my Create performance task for the AP exam. You can make literally anything, but it has to have the requirements of a list, variables, etc. I chose a to-do list. I use one every day, and I thought it was universally used. When I was making it, everything started
to click and unfold. … When I found people asking me questions, it felt surreal that they were asking a prior sophomore with no experience. I knew then that I could code completely on my own about something from my everyday life, and it worked.
Q: You write from the perspective of a high school student who once felt coding was out of reach. What moment or experience shifted that belief for you?
A: When I stopped asking to see someone’s
Oxmoor Medical Group brings back patient-first care with
When you call our office you will talk to someone on our staff. And when you come and visit, you will be treated like family. There is nothing more important than your health, and we want to make certain you feel that we understand your needs and we are here for you.
code (not copy but get a grasp of what we are supposed to do). I started to use my own knowledge from lessons. The main thing was taking risks; not every line of code will work, and not every attempt is a failure but a pathway. But learning code gets you to a broad solution, and learning to fail gets you closer.
Q: As you head into college and think about your future career, how do you hope to use your love of coding moving forward?
A: More than my love of code, my message
Far left: Angelina Grace Chicnes Pizarro holds a copy of her book “Breaking Codes,” inspired by her experiences in Advanced Placement computer science and her work with her family’s nonprofit in Peru.
and
from the book: to push down boundaries and fears. I want to be a lawyer, and as a Latina … less than 4% of Hispanic women [are] in that department. … My nonprofit, Warming Hearts is based on expanding students’ minds in low-income areas in Peru. With technology, I can picture the town of Carapo filled with beneficial technology in public education and for safety.
Read the full Q&A at thehomewoodstar.com.
Left: Angelina poses with her sister, Ashley,
Musmi, a longtime family friend she describes as “like my grandmother,” whose support and presence have shaped her love of learning, family and community. Photos courtesy of Angelina Grace Chicnes Pizarro.
Where memories meet modern design: Homewood High School’s auditorium reopens
By APRIL COFFEY
For generations of students, parents and alumni, the Homewood High School auditorium has been a place of applause, anticipation and shared memories. Though beloved for its warmth and familiarity, the decades-old space no longer matched the look and feel of the recently renovated high school surrounding it — until now.
Homewood City Schools recently completed a comprehensive renovation of the Homewood High School auditorium, marking the most significant update to the facility since it was built in 1972. The project transformed a well-worn but cherished venue into a modern performance space designed to better serve students, performers and the wider community.
The auditorium received minor cosmetic updates a quarter century ago. “In 2000, the curtain and stage floor were replaced and the chairs were re-covered,” said Homewood High School Band Director Chris Cooper. This year’s renovation went far beyond surface improvements.
One of the most visible changes is the modern seating and flooring, which have replaced the original chairs and carpet. Lighting throughout the space has also undergone a full transformation and has been replaced with an energy-efficient LED system.
Equally impactful are the upgrades audiences may not immediately see but will certainly hear. “Before this renovation, the sound and lighting systems were the original ones installed in 1972,” Cooper said. The auditorium now features a digital soundboard
controlling a completely redesigned audio system, including professional-grade speakers and microphones. The new setup will enhance everything from quiet theatrical dialogue to full band and choir performances.
Homewood City Schools Superintendent Justin Hefner emphasized the importance of the renovation not only as a facilities upgrade but as an investment in students and community life.
“This is a special space for our students, our school and our community — one that holds countless memories, milestones and moments of growth,” Hefner said. “As we continue the
important work of strengthening every aspect of our school system and facilities, I am grateful we invested in this auditorium to renew a place where students will learn, perform and be celebrated for generations to come.”
For many in Homewood, the auditorium is more than a performance venue. It is where students take the stage for the first time, families gather to celebrate achievements and the community comes together to support the arts. The renovation ensures those experiences will continue in a space that reflects the pride and progress of the school system as a whole.
“The auditorium is not just a place for
We are excited that the fine arts are so celebrated in Homewood, and the new space is for the community, such as welcoming the elementary schools’ talent shows.
CHRIS COOPER
“ ”
Homewood High School students. We are excited that the fine arts are so celebrated in Homewood, and the new space is for the community, such as welcoming the elementary schools’ talent shows,” said Cooper.
The newly renovated auditorium officially reopened Friday, February 13, and Saturday, February 14, as the host site for the Homewood South Central Classic, a show choir competition that brings students and visitors from across the region to Homewood High School.
As the lights come up and the curtains rise once again, the Homewood High School auditorium stands renewed — honoring its past while offering a modern stage for the performances and memories still to come.
Homewood High School reopened its renovated auditorium on Feb. 13, following the most significant update to the facility since it originally opened Photo by April Coffey.
SUMMER CAMP GUIDE
Explore local camps where kids can make friends, try new activities and build new skills all summer long
Find your groove with The Dance Foundation
For 50 years and counting, The Dance Foundation is more than just a place to dance — we’re a place to grow, connect, and celebrate movement in all its forms. Our creative and welcoming approach to teaching dance honors the art form as well as the individual — inspiring joy, confidence, and community. Through our programs, we widen the circle, expanding ideas about what dance is and who is a dancer so students and audiences can explore and belong.
Dance PARTNERS takes dance into schools and community organizations to engage and impact students who are very young, have disabilities or learning differences, or need academic support.
Space RENTAL makes studio space available for artists to teach, rehearse, and perform, reaching their own constituents with the benefits of dance.
Studio CLASSES inspire dancers of all ages and abilities, meeting each one where they are and encouraging lifelong exploration and study of dance. Live
music is an essential component to classes for young children through first grade. Our state-of-the-art facility is located in downtown Homewood and includes five studios, all with observation windows. Visit our website to learn more, to give, to find a class, or to host an event.
Take the stage this summer at Red Mountain Theatre
The summer theatre camps at Red Mountain Theatre in Birmingham give kids of all ages and skill levels the perfect outlet to use their creativity and imagination in dramatic ways.
Each summer at RMT, young kids step on stage for the first time and learn the basics of theatre. Other students develop their acting, singing and dancing skills. Those in high school may hone their theatrical skills for their next big career and academic steps.
The camps at RMT also help kids with more than just singing and dancing. They help them develop discipline and confidence, learn teamwork, make friends and — perhaps most of all — have fun in the summer.
“It’s the best kind of crazy energy, because we have so many kids who just blossom as they discover performing,” said Academy Manager Daley Dressler. “They’re channeling their talent and excitement into this new thing, with new friends that are just as excited.”
Camps run from May 26-July 31, with most taking place on the RMT Arts Campus downtown. RMT will also host fun satellite camps at Thompson High School in Alabaster and the Chelsea Community Center.
In Play Making camps for rising 4K-1st grades, budding artists explore theatrical storytelling. These half-day classes teach collaboration and creativity using familiar characters like Anna and Elsa, Spider-Man or Bluey.
WHERE: Red Mountain Theatre, 1600 3rd Ave. S., Birmingham
WHEN: May 26–July 31
AGES: Grades 4K – High School
CALL: 205-324-2424
WEB: redmountaintheatre.org/ summer-camps-2026
Rising 1st-3rd graders can become Triple Threats by working on their singing, dancing and acting skills. Students learn 3-5 pop songs or Broadway musical numbers to be performed at the end of the week.
At Theme Camps, rising 2nd-5th graders step into familiar book or movie worlds, like Hogwarts, Oz, or fairy tales, where they learn theatre fundamentals and explore their imagination.
Rising 4th-8th graders can shine on stage during week-long Blast Camps, where they work hard rehearsing a short script and presenting a full, choreographed performance.
Junior high and high schoolers hone specific skills, like auditioning, in the Summer Intensives.
Rising high-school seniors focused on their next academic steps can learn all about submitting applications in the College Prep Intensive.
Most camps end with short performances for family and friends. Camps start at $195
for half-day sessions and $350 for wholeday sessions. Extended care and lunch plans can be added. Financial aid is available for qualified applicants.
Camps fill up quickly so get in touch with us now. For details and registrations, call 205-324-2424, or go to redmountaintheatre.org/ summer-camps-2026.
Focus on acting, singing, and dancing! Learn 3-5 production numbers to share with friends & family.
Explore, create and connect at UAB ArtPlay
Arts training greatly benefits children and teens, experts say. For example, theatre helps kids build confidence, making art teaches them how to innovate and writing lets them share their own stories.
Plus arts classes are fun — especially during summer.
UAB ArtPlay
Community Education is again offering cool summer camps for kids and teens in 2026, and registration is now open. The camps are all in June or July, and they’re daytime, typically 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
ArtPlay offers immersive, award-winning musical theater camps. Kids ages 7-12 can take part in “Matilda the Musical Jr.” (June 8-26). Teens ages 13-18 can join a production of Disney’s “Newsies Jr” (July 6-24), and teens who love theater but prefer to be backstage can work on “Newsies Jr.” through the new Stagecraft and Production Camp. The lineup includes visual arts: Eco Art Exploration (June 1-5), kids ages 6-12 make art from everyday stuff; Watercolor and Pastels (June 29-July 1), ages 13-18. There’s a creative writing studio (June
Visual Arts Camp: Eco-Art Exploration
Dates: June 1-June 5
Ages: 6-12
Musical Theatre Camp: Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical, Jr.
Dates: June 8 -June 26
Ages: 7-12
NEW * Visual Arts
Studio Camp*
Dates: June 29 -July 1
Ages: 13-18
NEW *Creative Writing
Studio Camp*
Dates: June 29 -July 1
Ages: 13-18
WHERE: UAB Center for the Arts, 1200 10th Ave. S., Birmingham
WHEN: June 1-July 24
AGES: 6-18
WEB: alysstephens.org/connect/ summer-camps
29-July 1) where authors ages 13-18 create work and share it at a presentation
Early registration is encouraged. Spaces fill up fast. There’s early-bird pricing until March 15, and a UAB employee discount. For details, including times and fees, go to alysstephens.org/connect/summer-camps.
Musical Theatre Camp: Disney's Newsies, Jr.
Dates: July 6 -July 24
Ages: 13-18
NEW *Stagecraft & Production Camp: Disney’s Newsies Jr.*
Dates: July 6 -July 24 Ages: 13 -18
Creative kids shine at Virginia Samford Theatre summer camp
Virginia Samford Theatre introduces kids and teens to the joys of creating musical theater at its long-popular summer theatre experience, Camp VST, which returns this June.
Camp VST allows beginning and intermediate performers ages 7-15 to work with experienced theatre professionals and explore all aspects of live theater, including dance, voice, acting, playwriting, design and Shakespeare.
At the end of each camp, students will have the opportunity to perform the things they’ve learned in a live showcase.
“They’ll share their favorite scenes, dances and songs with parents and friends on Friday afternoon,” says Jenna Bellamy, director of the STARS youth theatre program at Virginia Samford Theatre.
Camp VST offers participants “a joyful week of creativity, collaboration, learning and making new friends,” Bellamy says.
The camps will be held for the third year at the beautiful Mountain Brook High School Performing Arts Center at 3650 Bethune Drive. “It’s a wonderful facility to work and learn in,” Bellamy says.
There will be two one-week sessions of Camp VST — Monday-Friday, June 1-5 and June 8-12, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Tuition is $300 for the week and Virginia Samford Theatre offers scholarships and sibling discounts. Register today at virginiasamfordtheatre.org/ vststars/camp-vst.
WHERE: Mountain Brook High School Performing Arts Center, 3650 Bethune Drive
WHEN: Monday-Friday, June 1-5 and June 8-12, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
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, 9:30-10:30 a.m.
Homewood Community Center
Dance Trance is a high-cardio, high-energy dance fitness experience that leaves participants soaking wet! It is a nonstop workout that feels more like a party than an exercise class. www.dancetrancefitness.com
Fun For All Line Dancing
Tuesday, 2:30 pm – 3:45 pm
Homewood Community Center Fitness Studio 2
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.
Cost: $5.00 per person per visit funforalllinedancing@gmail.com
Classes & Activities
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
Bench Aerobics Step & Line Dance
Monday, 5-6 p.m. (Step Aerobics) Tuesday, 4:15-5:15 p.m. (Step Aerobics) Thursday, 4:15-5:15 p.m. (Cardio Line Dance) Homewood Community Center Fitness Studio 2
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.
Homewood Parks & Recreation
YoLimber
Wednesday, Noon to 1 p.m. - Warrior Sculpt Friday, 8-9 a.m. - Basics Class Friday, 9:30-10:30 a.m. - Regular Class Friday, 4-5 p.m. - BroYo (Men’s Yoga) Enjoy 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
Fast Track Line Dance
Saturday, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
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
Tai Chi Classes
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: Tuesdays at 1:30 p.m.
Arthritis and Fall Prevention: Wednesdays at 1:30 p.m. Yang Style: Thursdays at 1:30 p.m.
Chair Fitness
Monday/Wednesday/Friday at 10:45 a.m. Great for individuals with stamina or balance issues. Focuses on joint mobility, stretching, strength and balance.
Senior Lunch Program
Weekdays, Noon to 12:30 p.m. – The lunch program does not require membership but does require enrollment (for ages 60+).
May 2, 2026
2026
Saturday, March 28 2026
Homewood Patriot Park - 710 Oak Grove Road
The Easter Egg Hunt is for children ages 1 through 10 years.
Homewood High School’s softball program is looking to take the next step this spring.
The Patriots earned a 20-win season last spring, building momentum and confidence as they continued to elevate expectations.
Head coach Arica Moss believes this year’s team has the pieces to build on that foundation.
“I’m very hopeful for a fun and competitive season,” Moss said. “We have a good mix of young and seasoned players.”
Homewood graduated four impact players from last year’s roster, but Moss said she has been pleased with the way this year’s group has stepped in to fill those roles.
“If what I am seeing in practices translates to the game, our lineup is solid, and we should compete with other good teams,” she said.
The Patriots will lean on a strong senior class to guide the way. Catcher Lauren Smith anchors the defense behind the plate. Moss said Smith’s leadership and vocal presence will be key components for the team.
Talley Hatcher returns in the circle as another senior leader. Moss said the Patriots are hopeful she will have a strong season on the mound.
Rebecca Henderson, new to the team this year, rounds out the senior group. Moss described Henderson as an incredibly hard worker who leads by example and lifts up her teammates daily.
Homewood also returns several players who held key roles last season. Junior Madison Letson, an outfielder and leadoff hitter, is coming off a strong year and will once again be counted on to set the tone offensively and defensively. She has committed to Northwest Shoals Community College.
At shortstop, junior Kloeanne Smith brings leadership and a competitive presence to the
field. Moss said Smith has been solid both offensively and defensively and is expected to continue that consistency this spring.
Junior infielder Allie Stuman is another key bat in the lineup. After a strong offensive season last year, Moss said the Huntingdon College commit has gotten stronger in the offseason and hopes that development translates into game production.
In the circle, sophomore Anne Hope Howell returns after emerging last season and developing significantly on the mound. Moss said
the staff is excited to see her continue to grow.
Peighton Letson and Lucy Robinett also return to the infield and lineup. The two split time at third base and as designated players last year and are expected to take on larger roles with another year of varsity experience.
“We hope to be a team that competes every game regardless of the opponent,” Moss said.
“We hope to limit our mistakes and capitalize where we can.”
The Patriots have scheduled challenging tournaments to prepare for postseason play with
a major goal in mind.
“[The] major goal for us is to make it to state this year,” Moss said. “We beat ourselves last year at regionals, and nerves and mistakes got the best of us when it mattered.”
Moss believes the Patriots have the flexibility and depth to make a push.
“We have several players who are talented enough to play different positions well, so we will have to figure who performs best where in game situations, but it is a good problem to have,” she said.
Left: Homewood’s Allie Stuman. Right: Homewood’s Madison Letson. Photos courtesy of Scott Butler.
Patriots embracing lofty dreams
By KYLE PARMLEY
The seniors at Homewood High School have waited many years for this season.
Many of them were thrown into the fire as freshmen. Some were starting varsity games as eighth graders. Four years later, the Patriots believe the foundation they have built together has positioned them for something special.
“High expectations,” head coach Lee Hall said. “But carpe diem — taking one day at a time.”
Hall said this group has been together since childhood, growing up playing park and recreation baseball in Homewood before eventually wearing the high school uniform.
“I call us a community baseball team,” Hall said. “These guys have been together since they were in first grade.”
Homewood returns a strong core from last year’s team. Cooper Mullins is back at catcher and has signed with Northwest Shoals Community College. Ben Roberts returns after serving primarily as a designated hitter last year and will play first base. He has signed with Northwest Shoals, as well. Levi Nickoli, an Auburn signee, has been a varsity starter at shortstop since eighth grade and anchors the infield once again.
Jack Bland, a Calhoun Community College signee, returns after hitting leadoff for most of last season. Will Siegel is back after playing multiple positions a year ago. Cooper Sain has been a regular since his sophomore season and is drawing college interest. Drew Susce, a Gadsden State Community College signee, is back after logging significant at-bats last year.
On the mound, the Patriots are healthy and deep. Senior Sims Young returns after missing last season while recovering from Tommy John
surgery. As a sophomore, he was one of Homewood’s top relief arms. William Tanner, who is expected to play second base, also returns after missing last year with elbow injuries and can contribute on the mound.
Juniors will play key roles, as well. George Brockwell earned 30 varsity at-bats late last season and proved he could handle high-leverage situations. Hall said he expects Brockwell to hit in the middle of the lineup, whether at designated hitter or a corner position.
Collin Crump also made a statement last year,
throwing five strong innings in a playoff game against Hartselle. He is expected to be one of the Patriots’ top arms. Chappy Chapleau is another junior the Patriots will count on to close games.
Prep Baseball Report gave Homewood the preseason No. 2 ranking before the season began, and the Patriots certainly have the talent and the expectations to dream big.
“They’ve earned the right to talk about winning a state championship,” Hall said.
However, that “carpe diem” refrain rings true. Hall’s message to his team has centered on daily
improvement rather than outside expectations.
“That pressure is a privilege,” he said. Homewood will test itself with a demanding schedule, including the Terry Sikes Memorial Tournament in Troy and matchups against Bob Jones and Hazel Green. The Patriots believe they have positioned themselves for a deep postseason run, but Hall’s emphasis remains on the process.
“If we achieve our ultimate goal, which is to win the state championship, we do it,” he said. “If not, then we enjoyed every single day.”
• To an already crowded landscape that includes 529 plans, brokerage accounts, and IRAs, Trump accounts are long-term investment accounts for children that lock funds away until age 18. The account offers tax-deferred growth and allows limited annual contributions, including the potential for employer and government “seed” money for eligible families. The tradeoff for those benefits is complex: Contributions are capped, investments are tightly restricted, withdrawals are taxed, and recordkeeping is essential.
• Compared with other savings tools, Trump accounts are generally less flexible and less tax-efficient for specific goals like education. A 529 plan, for example, offers tax-free growth and withdrawals for qualified education expenses, while brokerage accounts provide full access and broad investment choice. The Trump account may appeal most to families who qualify for seed contributions, can commit to long-term saving without needing early access, and value starting to invest for a child from birth
• In practice, Trump accounts are likely to work best as an “add-on” to savings strategies rather than a standalone solution. For many families, combining tools-a 529 plan for education, taxable accounts for flexibility, and Roth IRAs once a child has earned incomewill still offer a simpler, more adaptable, and often more tax-advantaged strategy.
This content is for information purposes only and is not tax, legal or investment advice. Please consult a tax professional or call/email Barlow Wealth Advisory Group, 205-732-9012 —Joel Barlow (Ext 100), Charlie Roush (Ext 103) or email us at info@barlow-wag.com.
Joel Barlow, CPA, CFP®, CPWA® Kara Barlow, CPA
Homewood’s Levi Nickoli, an Auburn signee, is moving to the starting rotation for the 2026 season.
Photo courtesy of Scott Butler.
Patriots boys finish runner-up at state indoor
By KYLE PARMLEY
The Homewood High School boys indoor track and field team finished as the Class 6A runner-up at the state meet Jan. 30 at the Birmingham CrossPlex. The girls finished third in the team competition.
Northridge won the boys competition, scoring 60 points to Homewood’s 48. Homewood’s total edged Hazel Green, who had 46.5 points. Mountain Brook finished fourth and Spain Park was fifth.
On the girls side, Mountain Brook dominated the competition, scoring 91 points to
second-place Pelham’s 61 points. Homewood scored 46, followed by Saraland and Fort Payne.
Homewood’s top individual performer was Isaiah Davis, who won the 800-meter run.
Tomon Felton scored points for the Patriots in multiple events, finishing third in long jump and seventh in the 60-meter dash. Lexie Fowlkes did the same on the girls side, placing fourth in the 1,600 and sixth in the 3,200.
Keely Chadha also scored eight points, finishing second in pole vault.
Claire Mitchell was third in the 400-meter and eighth in the 60-meter hurdles. John
Martin was fifth in triple jump and sixth in high jump.
Mirai Aaron was third in shot put, while Clayton Coltrin was third in pole vault and Kate Northington was fourth in pole vault.
John Esslinger finished seventh in long jump.
Charles Stone was eighth in the 800, Maggie Moore finished eighth in the 3,200 and Levi Derriso finished eighth in pole vault.
Teter, Caeten Armstead and Chloe Warren all participated as individuals, as well.
In the relays, the boys 4x800-meter relay team finished third, while the 4x200 team was fourth. The girls 4x200 team finished fourth, with the 4x400 team claiming fifth.
For John Carroll, Lacy Jackson placed third in the long jump and eighth in the 400 in 4A-5A competition. Pryce Smith finished third in the 60-meter hurdles.
Amelia Leath was fifth in the 1,600, while Cameron Graham placed fifth in pole vault. Sawyer Bray was seventh in pole vault. Hugh Tighe also participated as an individual.
Left: Homewood’s Wade Thomas passes Phil Copeland on Jan. 30 in the Class 6A state indoor track and field meet at the Birmingham CrossPlex. Right: Claire Mitchell running to the finish line Photos by Minh Lam.
AHSAA announces public-private school split
By KYLE PARMLEY
The landscape is changing in Alabama high school athletics — in a significant manner.
The Alabama High School Athletic Association and its Central Board of Control announced its new classification system for the 2026-27 and 2027-28 school years in a press conference Jan. 23, and the changes include a “restructuring” of the championship program.
No longer will public and private schools compete for the same trophies in AHSAA competition.
AHSAA Executive Director Heath Harmon said that public schools will now be divided amongst six classifications, while private schools will be split up in two classes.
“The landscape of education-based athletics in Alabama is changing, and the AHSAA must continue to adapt,” Harmon said. “After careful review and after listening to our public and private school members, the Central Board determined that now is the appropriate time to restructure championship play.
“This will result in restructured championships for public and private schools.”
Public and private schools have been combined and split into seven classifications since 2014, when 7A was added to the AHSAA classification system. The news marks the first time in AHSAA history that public and private schools will be split into separate championship programs.
There will now be six public school classifications, with the new 6A following the same model 7A has been following for the last 12 years, housing the 32 largest schools in Alabama. Classes 1A through 5A have anywhere from 64 to 69 schools in each. Private schools will be divided into two classes, one for the 17 largest schools and another for the
remaining schools.
Homewood will now be a 5A school, while John Carroll is one of the private schools that will be in the larger private school division (AA).
Harmon emphasized that this new format will be implemented for the next two years, with the potential for reevaluation at the next reclassification cycle in two years. The new private school championships will be added to the current championship competitions at existing venues.
“Its purpose is to expand opportunity and strengthen the overall championship experience for student athletes across Alabama,” Harmon said. “All championships will be played
John Ambrose has a ‘passion’ for building great kitchens and baths
John Ambrose is a Birmingham cabinet expert with years of experience in top-quality remodels and new construction. In this Q&A, John discusses what sets Ambrose Kitchen & Bath apart.
Why do you focus on kitchens and baths? Having worked on ground-up construction and full home remodels, I realized that kitchens and bathrooms are my passion. These are the most used and most challenging design features of the home—and as the youngest of four brothers, I like nothing more than to win a challenge! Getting the lighting, plumbing, tile, countertops, cabinets, hardware, appliances and paint to work together is like conducting a symphony. Every element has to be in harmony to achieve our clients’ vision.
Do you have a showroom to visit? Absolutely. In our showroom clients can get a hands-on look at working kitchens showcasing two of our top cabinet brands, Kith Kitchens and Mouser Custom Cabinetry. We also have lots of other samples to show. We see clients by appointment only because we believe that each client deserves our undivided attention.
What sets Ambrose Kitchen & Bath apart? We are committed to listening and collaborating with our clients to build spaces that work for them. Most customers come to us to solve problems in their existing space. We listen and create designs that ensure their new kitchen or bath will work for the way they live. We’re also a tight team of highly skilled professionals who have a passion for design and an eye toward the tiniest detail. We think through every aspect of our clients’ space and plan each component in advance.
Can you accommodate my busy schedule? Of course! Whether you’re a busy working parent, constantly on the road or retired and living your best life, we can work with you. We understand that not everyone can get to the design table during retail hours. In fact, we schedule most of our appointments after 4 p.m. on weekdays or on weekends.
What if I’ve never remodeled before and I’m feeling overwhelmed? Don’t worry. We’ll walk you through your entire project hand-in-hand. Before we ever started focusing solely on kitchens and baths, we did full remodels and built homes from the ground up. We understand every stage of the remodeling process and how to staff it, so we can guide you and answer all your questions. We’ll help make sure your project goes smoothly from rough-in to fluff-out.
I have no idea what a kitchen costs these days. What if my budget and dreams don’t align? We get it. We can break down costs in an easy-to-understand way and work with you to design the ideal kitchen or bath for your budget. We’ve hand-picked beautiful cabinet lines at every price point. Come take a look!
For more information, call us at 205-510-6961 or visit AmbroseKitchenandBath.com.
together, both public and private, in our championship venues.”
John Carroll Catholic High School released a statement following the news. It reads in part:
“We anticipate that this realignment and separation will create greater opportunities for playoff and championship competitiveness in many of our sports, while also maintaining important community ties through regular season competitions with schools in the greater Birmingham area.
“As we progress, we will continually assess and discuss our strategies to ensure they align with the best interests of our student-athletes and
coaches and with the core values that represent our past, present and future Cavaliers.”
Homewood will be in a football region with Calera, Chelsea, Chilton County, Helena, Mountain Brook, Pelham and Ramsay in Class 5A, Region 4. John Carroll’s new football region includes American Christian, Briarwood, LeeScott, Madison Academy, Randolph, St. John Paul II and Westminster Christian.
Alignments for winter and spring sports for the 2026-27 and 2027-28 school years will be released later, in accordance with a similar timeline toward the end of those seasons this school year.
AHSAA Executive Director Heath Harmon announces the public-private school split during a press conference Jan. 23 at the AHSAA offices in Montgomery. Photo by Kyle Parmley.
EVENTS
Save the Date
KIWANIS CLUB OF HOMEWOODMOUNTAIN BROOK PANCAKE BREAKFAST
► Where: Homewood Public Library, 1721 Oxmoor Road
► When: Saturday, March 14, 7-11 a.m.
► Cost: $8; children 5 and under are free. Tickets are available at the door.
► Details: The Kiwanis Club of Homewood-Mountain Brook is hosting its annual pancake breakfast fundraiser. The event will include all-you-caneat pancakes, sausage and beverages, as well as activities for kids. Proceeds benefit the Homewood Public Library and other area organizations focused on serving children.
FARM BABIES!
► Where: Homewood Public Library, 1721 Oxmoor Road, Library Parking Lot
► When: Monday, March 23, 10:30 a.m. to noon
► Cost: Free
► Details: Children ages 0-12 are invited to kick off spring break with a visit from DART Family Farm, which is based in Bessemer. The library parking lot will be transformed into a hands-on petting zoo featuring friendly farm animals. Kids can meet and interact with rabbits, chickens and goats while learning more about life on the farm. The event is suitable for all ages and offers a fun, educational way to spend the morning outdoors at the library.
A NIGHT AT THE OSCARS: AN EVENING IN CASABLANCA
► Where: The Country Club of Birmingham, 3325 Country Club Road
► When: Saturday, March 14, 6-9 p.m.
► Cost: From $225 for individual tickets
► Register: mitchellsplace.ejoinme. org/2026
► Details: Medical Properties Trust presents A Night at the Oscars: An Evening in Casablanca to benefit Mitchell’s Place, which offers services for children with autism and other developmental disabilities. Guests will enjoy dancing and live music from Rock Candy Band, followed by a gourmet plated dinner, a program, a silent auction and a live auction.
HOMEWOOD PARKS AND RECREATION EASTER EGG HUNT
► Where: Patriot Park, 710 Oak Grove Road
► When: Saturday, March 28, 10 a.m. and 11 a.m.
► Cost: Free
► Details: The Homewood Easter Egg Hunt is for toddlers and children up to 10 years of age. Participants will hunt for eggs with children in their own age group. Age groups are 0-3 and 6-7 at 10 a.m. and 4-5 and 8-10 at 11 a.m. In addition to the hunt, there will be games, prizes and a visit from the Easter Bunny for photos. Participants are encouraged to bring their own baskets.
► For more events news, connect with the Homewood Star online by scanning the QR code.
► Have an upcoming event to share? Email Kyle Parmley at kparmley@starnesmedia.com.
CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL
► Where: Birmingham Botanical Gardens, 2612 Lane Park Road, Lawler Gate
► When: Saturday, March 21, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
► Cost: Free
► Details: Join the Japan-America Society of Alabama and the Friends of Birmingham Botanical Gardens in celebrating the 19th annual Cherry Blossom Festival. This family-friendly event will feature cultural exhibits and activities for all ages. Explore Japanese culture through activities, food, music and martial arts demonstrations. Parking is limited. Carpool or ridesharing is encouraged. A shuttle will be provided from the Mountain Brook Office Park to the Lawler Gate.
HOMEWOOD PUBLIC LIBRARY
Thursdays: Guitar 101 for Adults, 6-7 p.m.
March 1: Plant and Seed Swap, 3-5 p.m.
March 2: Horror Podcast Club: “Old Gods of Appalachia” Season 5, 6-8 p.m.
March 3: Irish Movie Bingo Party, 6:30-8 p.m.
March 4: Niki Sepsas Presents “Three Roads to Glory,” 2-3 p.m.
March 5: Tortilla Making Class with Dulce Rivera, 6:30-8 p.m.
March 5 and 19: Regency Ball Practice Dance Sessions, 6:30-8 p.m.
March 6: Homewood Public Library Professional Series: Integrity When No One Is Watching, 1-2 p.m.
March 8: Puzzle Swap, 3-5 p.m.
March 10: Disney World and Universal Studios on a Budget, 6-7 p.m.
March 10: Masterpiece Makers: Mini Abstract Shamrock Paintings, 6:30-8 p.m.
JANE AUSTEN REGENCY BALL
► Where: Homewood Public Library, 1721 Oxmoor Road, Large Auditorium
► When: Saturday, March 21, 6:30-9:30 p.m.
► Cost: $20 per person. Reservations required.
► Register: 205-578-8280 or email jasna.alabama@gmail.com
► Details: Featuring English country dances with a caller who will provide instructions throughout the evening. A practice session will be held from 3-4:30 p.m. for those who wish to learn dances in advance, though attendance is not required. Period costumes are encouraged but not required. The event is for adults and teens. Refreshments will be served. Reservations are required and space is limited.
March 12: Magic Hour Film Club: “Fat City” (1972), 6:30-9 p.m.
March 12: Regency Ball Practice Dance Sessions, 7:15-8 p.m.
March 14: Kiwanis Pancake Breakfast benefiting the Homewood Public Library, 7-11 a.m.
March 16: West Oxmoor Presents: St. Patrick’s Day Bingo, 1:30-2 p.m.
March 16: Outdoor Spring Cleaning Made Easy, 6-7 p.m.
March 17: Canva, 3-4 p.m.
March 18: Live Yoga with Jackie Tally, 3-4 p.m.
March 21: Blackbox Adult Theatre Workshop, noon to 1:30 p.m.
March 25: Better Than Therapy Book Club: “The View From Lake Como,” 2-3:30 p.m.
March 30: Dixie’s Pet Loss Support Group, 6-7 p.m.
For the complete library events calendar, visit homewoodpubliclibrary.org/events
EVENTS
The Exceptional Foundation’s Chili Cook-Off moves to Liberty Park
By EMILY REED
The Exceptional Foundation’s Chili CookOff is moving locations this year — from Homewood to Liberty Park in Vestavia.
The event, which is celebrating its 22nd year, will be held March 7 at The Urban Center from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
“As Brookwood Village has new construction plans, it was time for the Chili Cook-Off to find a new location after 20 years in Homewood,” The Exceptional Foundation Marketing Coordinator Callie Puryear said. “Proceeds from the cook-off provide a significant source of funding for programs at The Exceptional Foundation, where we promote lasting friendships, healthy living, life skills and community involvement for adults and youth with intellectual disabilities.”
Puryear said this will be the first year the location will change in roughly 20 years. Organizers of the event are hopeful it will draw crowds from both Homewood and Vestavia Hills, making it larger than previous years.
“We are so thankful for Homewood’s support and hope that our Homewood friends will continue to join us,” Puryear said. “We also can’t wait to reach a new audience in Liberty Park and hopefully raise awareness about our organization in Vestavia.”
Puryear said the event will be much of the same that everyone knows and loves with the only difference being a new location.
Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce President Michelle Hawkins said the city is excited to have this event held in Vestavia, noting that Liberty Park will be a good location for a large crowd.
“I think when you look at the success of this event over the years and you see how many people annually attend, you can’t help but be
excited for it to come to Vestavia,” Hawkins said. “We are hopeful the event will continue to grow and reach an even wider audience.”
Hawkins said with the close proximity to many businesses in both Liberty Park and Cahaba Heights, she anticipates smaller, local businesses will also benefit from the event.
“There are lots of nearby restaurants and retail businesses that make [this] the perfect spot for it to be held,” Hawkins said. “There is also plenty of parking, which I know is very important to people, and it is very easy to access off of Interstate 459.”
A total of 140 teams cooked chili in 2025, and Hawkins said she is excited that 150 teams will be cooking at the new location.
“We are really optimistic that Vestavia will embrace this event with open arms and Vestavia businesses will show up in full support for it,” Hawkins said. “We are also eager for our
The Exceptional Foundation’s Chili Cook-Off
► When: Saturday, March 7, 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
► Where: The Urban Center, 1000 Urban Center Drive
► Tickets: $15 in advance online at exceptionalfoundation.org/ chili; at the gate for $20 on the day of the event; children 12 and younger are free.
Homewood friends to come out and enjoy it.”
In 2025, roughly 14,000 cook-off attendees raised $470,000 for programs at The Exceptional Foundation.
Initially the Chili Cook-Off was started by The Exceptional Foundation’s Junior Board and took place in the parking lot of The Exceptional Foundation in Homewood with just a few teams cooking pots of chili.
“We continue to keep the same goal that we had from the start: a fun day for the community that raises funds that make our programs possible,” Puryear said.
Many teams that participate arrive the night before the event to prepare the chili that will be served the next day.
“We love the competition that comes with the Chili Cook-Off each year,” Puryear said.
“We love the passion people bring to this day and the joy we see when the winners get their trophy. Another special thing is when teams
have been to the Foundation to visit or volunteer, so they really get to see what the event is all about and what they are doing the event for.”
The Chili Cook-Off is family friendly and includes a kids’ zone. A new addition to this year’s event is a food truck area with local food trucks for patrons to visit in addition to trying chili from the various teams participating.
The presenting sponsor this year is Alabama Power’s Renew Our Rivers initiative.
The judges and VIP sponsors are Argent Trust and Waverly Advisors, and the sponsor for the kids’ zone is Eventive Sports.
“We are so thankful for all of our sponsors for making this fun event happen each year and joining us as we adapt and grow,” Puryear said.
The Exceptional Foundation President and CEO Sara Newell said that after 20 years of memories in Homewood, they are excited to bring the Chili Cook-Off to Liberty Park and share the tradition with even more of the community.
“We are so grateful for the Homewood support that helped this event grow, and we look forward to continuing that spirit in Vestavia Hills,” Newell said.
The funds raised from the Chili Cook-Off make up nearly one-third of The Exceptional Foundation’s annual budget each year.
The event helps the Foundation care for more than 400 participants, which includes daily field trips around the community, sporting events in which they participate, weekend outings, an annual prom and more.
The Urban Center is at 1000 Urban Center Drive.
Tickets can be bought in advance for $15 at exceptionalfoundation.org/chili. Tickets will also be available on the day of the event and at the gate for $20. Children 12 and younger are free.
Staff photo.
Taste of Homewood to celebrate 23 years presenting the city’s best bites
By EMILY REED
Some of the best foods from area restaurants coupled with good conversation from people throughout the community are what help make the annual Taste of Homewood a favored event.
The Homewood Chamber of Commerce is gearing up for the 23rd annual Taste of Homewood, which is scheduled for March 19 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at SoHo Plaza.
“I think the event continues to thrive because it feels authentic,” said Homewood Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Shay Gartman.
“This isn’t just an event; it is a tradition. Families come every year. Restaurant owners look forward to it. Sponsors believe in it. There is something really special about seeing our community come together in one place, celebrating the businesses that make Homewood unique.”
The event invites attendees to come and sample food and beverages from Homewood’s most popular restaurants, coffee shops, bars and wine distributors.
“We have had such a strong response again this year, which says so much about our restaurant community,” Gartman said. “Whether the number is slightly up or about the same as last year, what really excites me is the mix of longtime Homewood favorites alongside some newer faces. It truly reflects how vibrant and growing our dining scene is.”
In previous years, local restaurants and businesses have participated in the event. Each participant sets up a booth in the plaza and offers selections from their menu for patrons to enjoy.
“Taste gives restaurants the opportunity to put their best dish in front of more than 1,200 people in one evening,” Gartman said. “For some guests, it is their first time trying a particular restaurant. And we consistently hear from business owners that they see those same
people walk back through their doors later. It also shines a spotlight on our sponsors and partners, the businesses that invest in this community year round. The visibility and goodwill generated in one night really carries forward.”
While much of the event will be the same, Gartman said this year organizers are working to improve the flow of the event and creating more opportunities for guests to really connect with the restaurants and the people behind them.
“We are also excited to be partnering with
Grace Klein Community again this year,” Gartman said. “We will have donation bins at the event so attendees can give back while they enjoy the evening. One of the things that I love about Homewood is that we show up for each other, and this partnership is a great example of that. We are hoping to continue growing that relationship in meaningful ways.”
Tickets are $35 in advance and $40 the day of the event.
Gartman said she hopes people that attend leave the event feeling full — not just from the
try
food but from the experience.
“I hope they discover something new, reconnect with a favorite and feel proud of the city we call home,” Gartman said. “Taste of Homewood is really about celebrating the people behind these businesses and the spirit of our community. If guests leave smiling and already talking about next year, then we have done our job.”
To purchase tickets, go to homewoodchamber. org and click on the red rectangle button that says “register.”
Guests at the Taste of Homewood
a dessert by Rolls Homewood featuring a cinnamon roll, sausage ball and fresh fruit during the event held at SoHo Square in March 2023. Staff photo.
LIFE
Homewood High School senior Evie Strickland
By APRIL COFFEY
Q: Please tell our readers about yourself.
A: I am 18 years old and a current senior at Homewood High School. I admire the arts so much, and although I spend the majority of my time dancing and singing, I love to spend time with friends and family any chance I get. I am one of five girls, and that has been the biggest blessing in my life along with the coaches, teachers and leaders that have helped me transform into who I am today.
Q: What extracurricular activities do you participate in at Homewood High School?
A: I am a member of Homewood High School’s mixed [10th-12th] show choir group The Network, and I serve as a lieutenant on the Star Spangled Girls dance line this year. I also have recently finished my first ever musical produced by Homewood’s theatre department.
Q: What is your best or favorite memory from your time spent at Homewood High School?
A: One of my favorite memories from my time at the high school would be hosting and performing at our own show choir competition, South Central Classic. Over the years, this competition has been so much fun and a great outlet to meet new choir kids from groups all over the States! I have truly loved being a leader when hosting smaller age divisions, and last year I had
brought such joy to be able to empower these young girls alongside my good friends and pour encouragement and confidence into them.
Q: Please tell our readers about your experience performing in New York over the summer. What were the most powerful things you learned about performing while doing that show?
A: Words cannot describe how much joy I had when working toward my NYC debut with On Stage Collective. … The words of wisdom that stuck out to me the most [were from] my experience in Emma Pittman’s masterclass at Pearl Studios. She told me that letting [my] walls come down and allowing the raw emotion and storytelling through my song choice to shine through was the best version of my performance and that this should carry on into every new audition [I] go to and every new song [I] sing. Her words will always stick with me and remind me to embrace the music and to love what I am creating!
Q: Who is your role model and why?
A: My mom is my biggest inspiration on the daily because she always encourages me even when things feel impossible sometimes. She never shies away from being her authentic self and always tells me to follow my dreams and passions. She constantly tells me that your profession should be something you wake up every day and love doing because you are passionate
follow my dreams to work in the arts one day and hopefully make my dream a reality.
Q: Do you plan to keep performing after high school?
A: I am currently in the process of auditioning for schools as a musical theatre major and hopefully after high school will be able to pursue
voice lessons and potentially [continuing] at a new dance studio in my more open free time once I graduate. … My love for performing will not end after high school comes to a close, and I will strive to keep working hard and pursuing this as a future career.
Photos courtesy of Evie Strickland.
YouthServe: Shaping a generation of empathetic leaders
By APRIL COFFEY
On a Saturday morning, while many teens are still asleep, others are hard at work — sorting clothing donations, packaging diapers or cleaning debris from a local riverbank.
For students involved in the YouthServe program, service is not just an extracurricular activity. It’s a lens through which they view their local communities and the larger world.
Founded in 1998, the Birmingham-based nonprofit empowers young people throughout the metro area, including Homewood, to engage directly with their communities through service-learning projects, hands-on work and reflection.
Since its founding, more than 35,000 students have participated in YouthServe programs designed not only to encourage volunteerism but also to deepen understanding of the social issues affecting their neighbors and surrounding areas.
“YouthServe is unique because we do not design the projects for our students; they design and execute the projects on their own with support from us,” YouthServe Executive Director Crystal Jones said.
“That student-driven approach helps students understand the impact they can have right now,” Jones said.
Flagship YouthServe programs include the Youth Action Council, a leadership program where students meet monthly to plan service projects and build civic skills, and the Youth Philanthropy Council, which guides teens through the grantmaking process, allocating $20,000 annually to other local nonprofits.
Community service days provide volunteer opportunities for youth ages 12-18, including river cleanups with Cahaba Riverkeeper,
diaper packaging with Bundles of Hope and donation organizing at the Full Circle thrift store. Participants only need a positive attitude, a desire to collaborate and a willingness to make a difference.
YouthServe also partners with schools through Service Education, a discussion-based curriculum that develops critical thinking, communication and leadership skills, and Changemaker Councils, student-led groups that meet bimonthly to identify community needs and implement projects.
For Hoover High student Harrison Morton, the experience has been transformative.
“YouthServe exposes me beyond the city I live in,” Morton said. “I learn about what is happening within and outside of the city of Birmingham and the hardships that people face, including those within my community.”
That exposure — both geographically and emotionally — is central to the organization’s mission. Service projects often tackle issues such as food insecurity, housing instability and educational inequity — concerns that feel abstract until students meet the people most affected. In Birmingham, a city with a rich history and complex social landscape, that awareness fosters informed, compassionate citizens who understand both the “what” and the “why” of community challenges.
Briana Morton, a member of the YouthServe board of directors, a lifelong educator and Harrison’s mother, reflected on the program’s impact: “I am in awe of these students. They truly are changing the world,” she said.
Jones said that while students in YouthServe come from all over the Birmingham area and have different backgrounds, “When we get
them together, they often realize how similar they are.”
Participants are encouraged to identify their own strengths — whether in communication, organization, creativity or problem solving — and apply them in meaningful ways. The result is growth that extends far beyond resume lines or required service hours.
For many teens, adolescence is a time of self-discovery. YouthServe adds another dimension: discovering a responsibility to others.
“The students that we work with in YouthServe are not the leaders of tomorrow; they are the leaders of today,” Jones said. Through YouthServe, service becomes more than an activity. The goal is for it to become a foundation, shaping young people who are aware, empathetic and ready to lead.
YouthServe students participate in a variety of service activities in their communities. Photos courtesy of Crystal Jones.
ROADMAP
CONTINUED from page 1
Some of these questions and others will be answered as residents and city leaders ponder Homewood’s future in the creation of a comprehensive plan for the city. A room full of residents assembled in the council chamber of city hall on the evening of Jan. 26 to connect the dots to their desired future for their city.
The dots — blue for places of opportunity, red where improvement is needed and green for places they love — were placed on maps of the eight-square-mile city. Organizers said this is a critical step to plotting a course for Homewood’s future through a new comprehensive plan.
The comprehensive plan is a long-term planning effort that will guide decisions across the city for the next 20 years and beyond. The plan will focus on Homewood’s neighborhoods, growth and priorities, helping shape short-, medium- and long-term projects and guide both public and private investment.
Brian Wright and Matt Noonkester led the discussion and are tasked with creating Homewood’s roadmap to the future. Wright is the founding principal of Town Planning & Urban Design Collaborative; Noonkester is principal of City Explained.
“Nothing has been decided,” Wright told the crowd. “You’re on the ground floor.”
“We start out our process by listening, starting with today and some of the meetings we’ve had leading up to today,” Noonkester said. “We really just want to have all the information come at us. And while I can conveniently collect data and documents, it’s the stories around that [data that are] really important to me. That’s what the engagement is all about — for me to catch up to what it’s like to be living, working, visiting Homewood.”
Elliot Pike said he didn’t come to the work session with an agenda.
“I really came to kind of listen,” the
Edgewood resident said. “I’ve never been part of something like this. I just came to listen — see how it works. If there’s something that I feel strongly about, I’ll certainly voice my opinion. But I didn’t come with any specific agenda — just to be part of it and participate where I need to.”
Several themes were repeated as 10 groups of residents presented the results of their roundtable discussions. Among those were the former Brookwood Mall, the relationship between the city and Samford University, the Board of Education property along Valley Avenue, underground utilities and redevelopment of the Rosedale Community.
“Rosedale is a nut we’ve been trying to crack for a long time,” Beverly LeBoeuf said.
Edgewood’s Jay Bagwell broached the idea of bringing back trolleys from yesteryear.
“I thought it would be cool,” he said. “It would be a revolving trolley, or a bus that looks like a trolley.”
Melinda Williams urged the facilitators to gather broad input from citizens, put that in their draft and then “really listen to it before they make their recommendations.” She cited Homewood’s downtown rezoning project as an example of what not to do.
“When they came back with their downtown zoning plan, it was clear that they either
ignored or hadn’t read the content from the … plan because they, time and time again, suggested things that nobody wanted,” Williams said.
Wright said they will avoid that pitfall.
“Most of all, what we do here has to be the essence of Homewood,” Wright said. “It can’t be something we did somewhere else, even if we were working in the next town over.”
Another work session was on Jan. 27 at the Homewood Senior Center in Homewood. Additional sessions are scheduled in the city’s four wards, but any resident can attend any ward meetings. The final plan is expected to be completed around winter/spring of 2027.
A resident studies a map during the work session for the comprehensive plan on Jan. 29. Photo by Solomon Crenshaw Jr.
Left: The Homewood school board-owned vacant lot on Valley Avenue next to Homewood Middle School. Right: Lee Community Center. Photos by Kyle Parmley.
And this month, as the temperatures warm up, so does local bee season, which usually peaks in April and May.
Ball’s penchant for routines and schedules made him a natural fit for daily work of the bees, which are classified as “livestock” by state and federal agricultural regulations.
But it’s also become a family affair. Ball touts Libby’s creativity and marketing savvy with packaging and selling their Moonstruck Divine Honey. Daughter Alex helps run the operation, too.
“It’s agriculture,” Ball said. “There are high highs and low lows and everything in between. And that’s been the greatest thrill for me — learning daily and working through the challenges.”
Central Alabama’s warm climate has made it a popular place for beekeeping.
“Alabama has a rich history of beekeeping,” said Mike Soike, president of the Jefferson County Beekeepers’ Association. “I think there’s a lot more beehives than people realize in the community. We’re able to keep a pretty healthy supply of bees all year round, and I think that’s made it a popular and relatively easy hobby to maintain.”
Ball says his commitment to bees has reshaped how he sees work, relationships and even his faith.
“I’m a better person because I work with bees,” Ball said. “It’s affected the way I look at my job and issues and troubles and challenges. It certainly impacts the way I interact with my family.”
Instead of forcing outcomes, Ball said he
Ball says working with bees has made him more patient and more attentive in both his business life and his personal life. His hives produce up to 1,000 pounds of honey per year. His wife, Libby, and daughter, Alex, teamed up with him to form Moonstruck Divine Honey, where they market and sell the yearly harvest. Photos courtesy of Alexandra Ball.
made me a more patient person,” Ball said. “I don’t have to know it all right now. I don’t have to make it all happen right now. I can work through it. Nothing happens immediately in a hive. You’re never going to make the bees do anything. If you understand them, they will tell you what they need.”
For Ball, beekeeping is even quietly spiritual.
“It’s calming,” he said. “It taxes your mind. It gives you a tremendous feeling of satisfaction when you succeed. It makes you draw on your
