Homewood Life, Summer 2025

DOMESTIQUE COFFEE • MEET HOMEWOOD FIRE CHIEF BRANDON BROADHEAD • KATDADDE INC.

THE NEXT 50

THE DANCE FOUNDATION’S LEGACY

HOMEWOOD’S BEST WINNERS

YOU VOTED. WE TALLIED. SEE WHO WON.

true

SUMMER 2025 HomewoodLife.com Volume Nine | Issue Two $4.95

GRIT

EB LEVERING WINS STATE CHAMPIONSHIP HomewoodLife.com 1

2 Summer 2025

HomewoodLife.com 1

FEATURES

51

THE CAT WHISPERER Homewood’s local saint, Todd Lehman, is working to rescue, rehabilitate and rehome every stray cat in town.

59

HOMEWOOD’S BEST WINNERS You voted. We tallied. See just who Homewood’s favorites are in the winners of our annual vote.

76 HIT THE ROAD

From the breezy coast to the tranquil lakes to the mighty falls, New York has a lot to explore outside its namesake city.

2 Summer 2025

PHOTO BY BLAIR RAMSEY

OUTSIDE THE CITY: EXPLORING NEW YORK STATE

43

51

PHOTO BY KELSEA SCHAFER

arts & culture

13 A Relevé: The Dance Foundation’s Rising Impact 22 Read this Book: Cristina Castor’s Not-to-Miss Summer Reads

schools & sports

23 Ready, Set, Dash: EB Levering Wins Cross Country State Championship 30 Five Questions For: Kaitlyn Bentley, True40 Studio

food & drink

33 Twenty-Two Years Strong: Red Pearl Offers Global Cuisine

in every issue 4 Contributors 5 From the Editor 6 The Question 7 Instagram 9 The Guide 82 Chamber Connections 84 Out & About 94 Marketplace 96 My Homewood

40 Five Questions For: Nathan Pocus, Domestique Coffee

home & style

43 Familial Pride: A 1950s Home’s New Look

HomewoodLife.com 3

contributors EDITORIAL

Michaela Bankston Dave Domescik Anna Grace Moore Tyler Raley Andrew Simonson Noah Wortham

CONTRIBUTORS

Lisa Cheek James Culver Rachel Culver Christina Dennis Lauren H. Dowdle Michelle Love Blair Ramsey Kelsea Schafer Kate Seaver

DESIGN

Sydney Allen Jamie Dawkins Rowan Futrell Connor Martin-Lively

MARKETING

Kelsey Alexander Noah Brakefield Evann Campbell Octavia Campbell Rachel Henderson Rhett McCreight Viridiana Romero

ADMINISTRATION Mary Jo Eskridge Alec Etheredge Stacey Meadows Lauren Morris Kayla Reeves Leslie Reeves Brittany Schofield

Christina Dennis, Photographer

Christina Dennis is the co-founder and co-owner of Untold Imagery and is all about capturing real moments and genuine connection. She spends most of her time in the studio photographing boudoir and motherhood sessions—spaces where women can feel seen, strong and celebrated. She’s also a mom to a fiercely independent little girl, and she is someone who believes that art has the power to heal. If she’s not behind the camera, she’s probably building Lego castles, sipping on her third coffee of the day or daydreaming about her next adventure.

Michelle Love, Writer

Michelle has spent the past 11 years writing about the different businesses and people that make Birmingham so unique including artists, restaurants and political/social issues. She has loved watching the city evolve into the vibrant and eclectic world it is now. When she isn’t writing, she can be found trying new recipes in her kitchen or reading a good book.

Blair Ramsey, Photographer

Blair is a Vestavia Hills-based photographer whose company, Southern Intrigue Photography, specializes in sports action, portrait and commercial images. Blair has two sons, Cooper and Cameron, who have both had the privilege of being Auburn cheerleaders. Blair’s work can be found at southernintriguephotography.com, on Instagram @southernintriguephotography and Facebook @southernintrigue.

Kate Seaver, Writer

Pursuing her degree in journalism and mass communications, Kate Seaver is a Samford University student, who loves writing and photography and hopes to continue sharing her community’s stories for years to come. She is always captured by stories about people, and she challenges herself to seek out the interesting bits in even mundane topics.

When not writing or taking photos, she enjoys spending time outside, taking in the beauty of creation.

Homewood Life is published quarterly by Shelby County Newsmedia Inc., P.O. Box 947, Columbiana, AL 35051.

Homewood Life is a registered trademark. All contents herein are the sole property of Shelby County Newsmedia Inc. [the Publisher]. No part of this periodical may be reproduced without written permission from the Publisher. Please address all correspondence (including but not limited to letters, story ideas and requests to reprint materials) to: Editor, Homewood Life, P.O. Box 947, Columbiana, AL 35051.

Homewood Life is mailed to select households throughout Homewood, and a limited number of free copies are available at local businesses. Please visit HomewoodLife.com for a list of those locations. Subscriptions are available at a rate of $14.95 plus tax for one year by visiting HomewoodLife.com or calling (205) 669-3131, ext. 532.

Advertising inquiries may be made by emailing advertise@homewoodlife.com, or by calling (205) 669-3131, ext. 536.

4 Summer 2025

from the editor

A

ON THE COVER

Chasing Grace

EB Levering wins second AHSAA Cross Country Championship in back-to-back years and is named a two-time Gatorade Alabama Cross Country Player of the Year.

Photo by Kelsea Schafer Design by Rowan Futrell

A firm believer in God-given talents, I can often point out the strengths in other people, even when they, themselves, might not recognize them.

This discernment must be a gift of mine because I know the power of encouragement, especially when used to enable others to find and fulfill their callings.

Alas, the Lord’s hand must have skipped over the talent of bodily coordination when finding gifts to bestow upon me. While I have always loved to dance, I unfortunately do not possess the coordination or rhythm required for passersby to discern between my dancing or my flailing like a duck. God forbid I catch a vibe, right?

One could imagine my surprise as I first strolled into The Dance Foundation for my interview with directors Diane Litsey and Shellie Chambers. If any of you readers are familiar with The Dance Foundation, you probably know that anyone–no matter his or her age or level of expertise is welcome, celebrated even–when it comes to dancing. Why? Because dance is for everyone. Diane reminded me that while some are blessed with talent from an early age, others can develop their passions over time, especially with the right supporters in their corner.

This got me thinking about the significance of community. In fact, as I was interviewing Emma Brooke “EB” Levering, I learned that she credits all of her success to God and to her family–who have never missed any of her milestones. The Homewood High School senior not only won the 2023 and 2024 AHSAA 6A Cross Country Championships, but she was also named the Gatorade Alabama Cross Country Player of the Year for the second year in a row. As talented as she is, EB says she did not start taking running seriously until she was in middle school.

I have come to realize every person is blessed with unique gifts, but often, it takes others’ encouragement for such to be revealed. The talent is there. It just needs to be grown.

I will probably never star in “Swan Lake.” The day I finish a marathon is the day I wake up from what is probably a very exhausting night terror. But, the day I write my last article or letter from the editor ever, is hopefully the day I see someone blossom from reading my writing, feeling empowered to conquer his dreams. In creating this issue, I have been reminded what a blessing this is to possess. I have also learned just how wonderful a community Homewood is in lifting up residents, supporting them in their endeavors. It’s why so many businesses and community members were voted “Homewood’s Best” in our annual contest, whose results begin on page 59.

As you all read up on this issue’s stories of encouragement, I implore each of you to reflect on your talents, your gifts–and more importantly, what you can do to empower those around you, too.

Happy reading, folks,

annagrace.moore@homewoodlife.com HomewoodLife.com 5

“ ” THE QUESTION

Where are your favorite places to spend time with loved ones in Homewood?

My favorite places are definitely Homewood Central Park and anywhere in Edgewood. My friends who have kids love the park, and Edgewood has so many restaurants.

We spend a lot of family time at our church, Trinity United Methodist Church!

We like Trinity United Methodist Church, Homewood Central Pool, Homewood Rec Center and restaurants Taco Mama, Ashley Mac’s and Urban Cookhouse!

Definitely the parks and Pizzeria G.M.

-Michelle Love

-Emily Wilder

Whiskey Foxtrot Burger Shoppe -JJ Culver

I enjoy perusing through downtown, shopping at all of the boutiques. I’m partial to Wrapsody and The Pink Tulip!

-Beth Tucker

6 Summer 2025

-Dana Levering

-Allen Barlow

Shopping in downtown Homewood -Rachel Culver

I love all of Homewood’s parades and festivals, especially We Love Homewood Day at Homewood Central Park!

-Bella Rose

@homewoodlife

Tag us in your Homewood photos on Instagram, and we’ll pick our favorites to regram and publish on this page in each issue.

@realandrosemary Our new sandwich debuts today! Try the Flounder Cake Po’boy as we head into Spring!

Our signature flounder cakes are served on a hoagie roll with remoulade, romaine & tomato.

Available for a short time!

@homewoodtoy_hobby Available today, in store, “How Mae got Moxie,” written by our sweet friend, Jennifer Hallman. Stop by and pick up this locally written, locally illustrated, and locally published book that teaches us to spread kindness and love to all we meet!

Give her a follow at @maethebook

@robertbhair Blonde and ready for summer!

@classicwineco Fantastic Friday Wine Tasting with Courtney from MadVines! Come join us from 5:30 to 7:30. Don’t forget to sign up for our upcoming events.

Wine dinner on the 8th and Oyster Social on April 26th.

HomewoodLife.com 7

A New Day in Healthcare.

Even Better Together

When two leading healthcare systems come together, extraordinary things happen. As Baptist Health Brookwood Hospital — now strengthened by awardwinning healthcare leader Orlando Health — we are bringing you expert medical care with the patient-first approach you deserve. With an even brighter future ahead, we’re excited to enhance exceptional, faith-based care in your community.

Giving you more reasons to choose well. BaptistHealthAL.com/BrookwoodHospital

8 Summer 2025

THE GUIDE

JULY 4TH FESTIVAL JULY 4 5 P.M. Downtown Homewood Everyone’s favorite Independence Day celebration is returning to Homewood this season! Two blocks of 18th Street South and one block of 29th Avenue South will be closed off for pedestrians to enjoy a variety of rides and attractions during the festival. Children will enjoy inflatables, music, rides and interactive activities for all ages. While there is no charge to attend this event, those interested in playing on the attractions must purchase a $10 wristband for unlimited ride access. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and sit out on the sidewalks downtown to watch Vulcan Park and Museum’s “Thunder on the Mountain” fireworks show, which will conclude the event’s festivities. For more information, visit homewoodparks.com/special-events.

HomewoodLife.com 9

THE GUIDE AROUND TOWN SELECT WEEKS IN JUNE & JULY

SATURDAYS IN MAY-JULY Helena Market Days Helena Amphitheater

9 A.M.-NOON Thomas Andrew Art, Home & Faith 2856 18th Street South

SATURDAYS IN MAY-SEPT. Valleydale Farmers’ Market 4601 Valleydale Road

Kids’ Art Camp Local artist Thomas Andrew’s studio is hosting children’s art camps for students ages 8-12 years old this summer! Campers will get to learn about a new, famous artist each day and will get to draw, sketch or paint a different project based on that day’s featured artist. At the end of each camp week, the studio will host a 30-minutelong student showcase, where family and friends are invited to come see the campers’ artwork!

Registration fees are $250 per child and include all art supplies necessary, daily snacks and a Thomas Andrew Art camp T-shirt, too. To learn more or register, visit thomasandrewart.com.

SATURDAYS IN MAY-NOV. The Market at Brock’s Gap Brock’s Gap Brewing Company SELECT WEEKS IN JUNE-JULY Gross Out Camp Oak Mountain State Park MAY 3 Art in the Village Mountain Brook City Hall MAY 3 Art in the Lot Trinity United Methodist Church MAY 6 Hoover Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast ft. University of Alabama Head Football Coach Kalen DeBoer Hyatt Regency Ballroom 1000 Gallerica Circle MAY 10 Kitty Kat Haven and Rescue 5K Meow-A-Thon and One-Mile Whisker Walk Veterans Park 4800 Valleydale Road MAY 13-18 Birmingham Barons vs.

Chattanooga Outlooks Regions Field

TUESDAYS IN JUNE, JULY AND THE FIRST TUESDAY IN AUGUST

West Homewood Farmers Market 5-8 P.M. 160 Oxmoor Road

Back for its 15th season, the West Homewood Farmers Market will open on Tuesday, June 3! Patrons can look forward to 10 Summer 2025

perusing a variety of local vendors’ wares, delicious food and beverages and great seasonal produce, too. For more information, visit westhomewood.com or follow the West Homewood Farmers Market on Instagram @westhomewood.

MAY 14-18 Regions Tradition Greystone Golf & Country Club MAY 17 Spring Scramble 5K 2839 18th Street South MAY 17 Helena Old Town Live Helena Amphitheater

THE GUIDE MAY 17 Pelham Palooza in the Park 555 Ballpark Road MAY 17 The Molly Ringwalds Presented by Avondale Brewing Company MAY 19-25 Women’s Pro Classic W50 Tennis Tournament Pelham Racquet Club MAY 20-25 SEC Baseball Tournament Hoover Metropolitan Complex MAY 26 Because of the Brave 5K 3727 Highway 119 JUNE 1 Sean of the South Presented by the Shelby County Arts Council

MAY 3

We Love Homewood Day

ALL DAY Homewood Central Park

Homewood’s biggest party of the year is back! Here is a brief timeline of events you won’t want to miss:

7:30 A.M: We Love Homewood Day 5K 8 A.M-2 P.M: Chalk Art Festival 10 A.M.-4 P.M: We Love Homewood Day Festival 6 P.M: We Love Homewood Day Parade 7-9:30 P.M: Street Festival in Edgewood

JUNE 3-8 Birmingham Barons vs. Rocket City Trash Pandas Regions Field JUNE 6 Electric Avenue - The 80’s MTV Experience Presented by Iron City Bham JUNE 14 Run, Ride & Rumble for PTSD Awareness 4500 5th Avenue South JUNE 17-22 Birmingham Barons vs.

Columbus Clingstones Regions Field JUNE 20 Coco Jones with Lady London Presented by Iron City Bham JUNE 26 I Love America Night Wald Park

JULY 26

Downtown Homewood Sidewalk Sale ALL DAY The Shops of Downtown Homewood

Brought to patrons by the Homewood Chamber of Commerce, the 15th annual Downtown Homewood Sidewalk Sale

will feature merchants lining the sidewalks with pop-up shops, sporting discounts up to 75 percent off! Be sure to arrive early and shop local. Learn more at business.homewoodchamber. org/events.

HomewoodLife.com 11

VOTED BEST DOCTOR IN HOMEWOOD! I’M TRULY HUMBLED BY YOUR SUPPORT – THANK YOU FOR TRUSTING ME WITH YOUR CARE.

RAGGIOMD.COM 205.

918.

12 Summer 20257728

&CULTURE

ARTS

THE POWER OF DANCE

The Dance Foundation reflects on 50 years of service to the Homewood community and beyond.

BY ANNA GRACE MOORE PHOTOS BY BLAIR RAMSEY & CONTRIBUTED HomewoodLife.com 13

14 Summer 2025

T

The age-old art of storytelling depicts the ability to feel, to struggle, to hope and to dream. It is best expressed through movement–dance, humanity’s first ability to visually express the fragility of human existence and the pursuit of purpose in the mundane.

Dance is the foundation upon which all other art forms are built, and yet, throughout all of humanity’s struggle, this physical manifestation celebrates life and the self-discovery of dancers, who awake to find themselves able to see clearly–for the first time–the purpose they serve and how dance helps them share it.

Founded in 1975, The Dance Foundation is a nonprofit organization focused on teaching a love of dance to people of all ages and abilities in a welcoming environment. Designed to nurture creativity, curiosity and confidence, the foundation not only offers fee-based studio classes and studio space rentals, but it also offers Dance Partners programs, which are taught in local schools and social service agencies and freely benefit its participants.

Serving more than 1,800 students each week, the foundation works with 1,200 or more of those students across 20 different partner locations, often in underserved communities. Its signature catchline–celebrating the dancer in every body and the dance in every movement–remains the core mantra of the organization even after 50 years.

The brainchild of founders Jennie Robertson, Mary Conyers Cooper and Virginia Samford Donovan, The Dance Foundation was born as an idea to foster love through movement. With a $50 donation from her husband, Jennie began hosting dance classes for children out of their attic in their modest, little home.

Although space seemed scarce, Jennie’s ounce of faith in her purpose conquered any fear either she or anyone else may have had about her plans. Enter stage right–Mary and Virginia.

Together, these three friends augmented the significance of the arts throughout their careers, never discrediting the revelation found through artistic expression. Their purpose, they believed, was to help open the eyes of their students on their HomewoodLife.com 15

Dance is a celebration of life, a widening of horizons, an exercise in communication, an exploration into self-awareness.

Through this discipline, all the arts come into focus. Let us journey together.

-Jennie Robertson, Founder of the Dance Foundation journeys of self-discovery, awakening the artist in each of them along the way.

“Jennie had a big idea that dance could be a wonderful experience for anybody, particularly young children working on developmental skills and children who have disabilities,” Diane Litsey, The Dance Foundation’s executive director, says. “From that idea really grew this bigger effort that we have today, working with children throughout our community, children who have disabilities or learning differences, students in elementary school who need academic support or a creative way to be more engaged in classroom learning. Those students are really the heart and soul of what we do, and those ideas really come from our very beginnings.”

As enrollment outgrew the Robertsons’ attic, dance classes were moved outdoors to their lawn.

When the winter months dawned, Jennie problemsolved on a whim, sourcing a studio in Birmingham for community classes.

Over time, The Dance Foundation’s welcoming atmosphere grew in popularity, eventually forcing its relocation from Birmingham to Homewood in 1988. In April 2003, the foundation found a newer, larger home at its current location in downtown Homewood.

Now, the foundation employs more than 25 16 Summer 2025

instructors and administrators and teaches a plethora of studio classes for all ages from tiny tots no more than 2 to senior citizens. Its mission is to encourage everybody to rediscover–or learn for the first time–the joy of dance.

Between ballet, jazz, tap, modern, hip-hop, musical theater and more, the foundation offers classes for all interests and levels of expertise.

“The atmosphere at The Dance Foundation today is exactly what my mother would have wanted to create,” Melissa Turnage, Jennie Robertson’s daughter, says in an article on thedancefoundation.org. “Dancers understand that they are wanted here. We want to dance with you, and we want to be with you and explore this magic together.”

While the foundation’s permanent residence is in Homewood, many do not realize the extent of its impact, reaching the far corners of Birmingham and beyond. Uniquely, the foundation has taken Jennie’s initial dream a step further, creating one-of-a-kind Dance Partners programs for those in need.

These dance classes are taught by studio instructors at preschools, elementary schools and other social service agencies or nonprofit organizations, in order to enhance participant comprehension and execution in their areas of

I strive to be the kind of person my dog thinks I am.

Animal Hospital, Veterinary Care, Boarding & Grooming 2810 19th Place South, Homewood, AL 35209 StandiferAnimalClinic.com e knockout

r with whit

Front cove

r

Back cove

OD FIRE

T HOMEWO

FEE • MEE

QUE COF

HOME WOOD

DOMESTI

box ADDE INC.

EAD • KATD

N BROADH

NDO CHIEF BRA

LIFE

OOD’S HOMEWIN RS W NE LIED. BESTTED . WE TAL XT THE NE NCE

50

YOU VO

SEE WHO

WON.

ACY THE DA TION’S LEG FOUNDA

H omewo od L ife . com

true

GRIT S ummer 2025

2025 SUMMER ife.com HomewoodL | Issue Two Volume Nine $4.95

NS RING WI EB LEVE HIP AMPIONS STATE CH

SUBSCRIBE NOW! Your Stories.

Your Community.

Your Magazine.

Visit HomewoodLife.com or call 205-669-3131 to subscribe for $14.95 plus tax (4 issues) a year.

struggle such as in academics or developmental goals. The foundation will often seek out unmet needs in underprivileged areas, working with educators on how its curriculums can benefit students.

As these programs have taken off, other organizations have come calling, eager to reap the rewards of dance education.

“We are people made for community, and this is our community,” Shellie Chambers, The Dance Foundation’s marketing and program director, says. “Dance is the common thing that holds us all together.”

Movement to Music, which is the foundation’s largest partner program, is tailored to preschool-age children with special needs. These classes are designed to prepare attendees for their next milestones, whether that be learning to walk or attending grade school.

Through sensory and fine motor exercises, participants engage in dances that tell stories and encourage imagination, enabling them to both love the activities they are doing and learn from them, too. Nonprofits such as The Bell Center for Early Intervention Programs host the foundation’s classes frequently, noting significant excitement from their participants who have autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy or other developmental delays.

While Movement to Music is geared towards toddlers, the HomewoodLife.com 17

foundation’s Arts in Education programs focus exclusively on grade school-age students. Dancing with Words, for example, is taught to first and second graders who experience discrepancies in English language proficiency.

Partnering with local teachers, The Dance Foundation will go into local schools, teaching dance classes to ESL students, reinforcing curriculum designed to teach patterns and frequencies. Through these lessons, students are better able to grasp reading skills and English vocabulary first by learning repetition through dance.

Similarly, Math in Motion is also taught in targeted schools but to third through fifth-grade students.

These classes teach problem-solving skills through math concepts that are emulated through dance such as rhythm, symmetry and pattern expression.

Comprehending the relationship between math and dance allows students to develop their skills in a fun, laidback environment. Teachers also enjoy seeing their students so actively engaged in a subject that previously would bore or confuse them.

The foundation’s newest class, Brain Body Balance is offered to kindergarten through 12th-grade students with disabilities. This curriculum promotes participants’ social and emotional growth by helping

them navigate the relationship of dance and physical expression, while encouraging positive attitudes, strong communication skills and self-confidence.

“The work the foundation has done over the last five decades–teaching dance to students, regardless of their abilities or means, using dance to help prepare students to learn in school classrooms and providing space for artists to start their own studios–is a natural result of my mother’s view that everybody is a dancer, and everybody can dance,” Melissa says in the article.

With new needs emerging in the community, The Dance Foundation is continually grateful for the support of local patrons, whose donations further its mission to serve those in need through dance. Just to think, this generational movement was ignited by just one dancer discovering her purpose as a teacher and deciding to pursue that calling.

Looking to the next 50 years, Diane says The Dance Foundation will continue to follow in the footsteps of its founders, celebrating students’ selfdiscovery and accomplishment by teaching why the arts are important, and better yet, why dance reveals the purpose we each are called to fulfill.

To learn more about The Dance Foundation, register for classes or inquire about Dance Partners Programs and studio rentals, visit thedancefoundation.org.

I’m so thankful to be your trusted neighbor and local real estate expert. It’s an honor to help so many of you find home right here in our community. If you’re thinking about making a move, trust in the best to help you change your address—I’m here for you every step of the way!

205.447.7724 jcallahan@raypoynor.com 18 Summer 2025

thank

Homewood!

Ta t i a n a G h i l a n

James Thomas

Be s t E s t h e t i c i a n

Be s t H a i r S t y l i s t

hair care • skin care nail care • massage 2824 linden avenue • homewood 205.870.8708 • www.salonustyle.com

HomewoodLife.com 19

20 Summer 2025

HomewoodLife.com 21

ARTS & CULTURE

READ THIS BOOK

Summer Fun Recommendations from

Cristina Castor

Head of Children’s Services at the Homewood Public Library

Cristina Castor is the Head of Children’s Services at the Homewood Public Library. Besides books, she is also a lover of eating desserts before dinner, WWII documentaries and tchotchkes displayed in vintage printer trays—ask her about her Calico Critters collection. With summer approaching, Cristina recommends these top five novels middleschoolers will love reading this season.

Chickenpox

By Remy Lai | Realistic Fiction Let’s be honest: younger siblings can be annoying, especially when they have chickenpox! Abby’s world has turned upside-down, when she is stuck at home with her spotty and itchy brothers and sisters. While she would rather hang out with her friends—because that’s what all cool soon-to-be-teenagers do—she has no choice but to act as the responsible big sister that she is. Will she have the patience to help, or will she lose her cool? If you’re itching to read a hilarious graphic novel filled with sibling and friendship drama, look no further and grab this book!

Crumble

By Meredith McClaren | Realistic Fiction If desserts and magic are your jam, this graphic novel might be right up your alley. When Emily shares her baked goods to her classmates, she accidentally gets them sick due to an ingredient that was not planned—her own bad feelings. No matter how much she bakes, her emotions get mixed up in the batter! Her supportive best friend Dae might know the secret to prevent this from happening again, but will it work? Not only does this story have scrumptious treats, but it also introduces readers to various emotions, family bonds and strong friendships.

The First State of Being

By Erin Entrada Kelly | Science Fiction This Newbery Award-winning book is not only a great read for middle graders, but it is also great for adults who are nostalgic about growing up in the ‘90s. When Michael, a boy living in 1999, meets another boy from the future, it is only normal to have a lot of questions and anxiety about what the future holds. For fans of “Time Traveling with a Hamster” by Ross Welford, “The Time Travel Twins” by James Patterson and “The Rhythm of Time” by Questlove and S.A. Cosby, this story will also take you to places you’ve never been before–whether it’s in the past or the future—either way, it’ll be unique and heartfelt.

A Copycat Conundrum

By Lisa Yee | Mystery The Misfits are back again fighting crimes and solving mysteries. This time, they’re dealing with threatening notes, museum capers and on top of that, an earthquake! This graphic novel has a comical storyline and hilarious artwork by award-winning illustrator Dan Santat that will get readers invested in each characters’ antics and adventures. Who knows? Maybe you and your friends will also be inspired to solve your own city’s mystery!

Safiyyah’s War

By Hiba Noor Khan | Historical fiction Safiyyah’s bravery during Nazi-occupied Paris is tested, when she sees her Jewish friends face imminent danger.

She thinks of various ways to help, but how? Her father’s actions are also getting increasingly suspicious, which makes her nervous, and her best friend just left without a trace. The resilience of the Muslim community and the Grand Mosque of Paris will make readers in awe of this part of history that is little-known. This book is perfect for fans of “The Night War” by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley; “Allies” by Alan Gratz; “Max in the House of Spies: A Tale of World War II” by Adam Gidwitz; and “The Bletchley Riddle” by Ruta Sepetys and Steve Sheinkin.

22 Summer 2025

SCHOOL

&SPORTS

CHASING GRACE

Homewood High School senior EB Levering is named Gatorade Alabama Cross Country Player of the Year.

BY ANNA GRACE MOORE PHOTOS BY KELSEA SCHAFER & CONTRIBUTED HomewoodLife.com 23

24 Summer 2025

E

Eyes snapped shut, breathing long strokes, Emma Brooke “EB” Levering knelt inches from the starting line, nails on relevé, resting on the scorching red track at the 2025 indoor state track meet.

“Just one more,” she whispered.

As her heart tried to escape her chest, she counted its throbbing blows parallel to the seconds leading up to the starting horn. She had to beat the light– her speed, record-breaking.

EB felt every pair of harrowing eyes staring her down. Some of Alabama’s best and brightest bordered her left and her right–their wins measuring tons in gold.

As the referee raised up his horn, EB felt beads of sweat trickle down her furrowed brow, clogging her eyes in a salty cloud. She wagged her head, desperately trying to focus.

Though she battled two serious illnesses, nothing was going to stop her from winning–or so she thought.

College scholarship offers, the coaches’ respect–it all rides on this performance, she said to herself.

A half second later, the referee’s horn belted out, ricocheting throughout the distant hills.

Dashing away, EB ran what would be her most defining race–the one where she lost it all.

Gatorade Alabama Cross Country Player of the Year In January 2025, EB was named the Gatorade Alabama Cross Country Player of the Year for the second year in a row. Founded in 1985, this award honors high school student-athletes who excel in both athletics and academics across 12 different sports throughout the United States and the District of Columbia.

Each year, a state winner in each sport is selected, and Gatorade also donates $1,000 on behalf of each recipient to a charity of his or her choice. Now a twotime winner, EB feels grateful to be recognized, but she says her real accomplishment has been discovering her identity not as a runner, but in her Savior.

The Homewood High School senior has racked up numerous accolades, winning her second, consecutive state title in the AHSAA Class 6A cross country championship with a time of 17 minutes, 46 seconds.

Notably, EB clocked her win by 29 seconds more than the second-place finisher, helping the Homewood Patriots bring home silver as a team.

During the RunningLane Championships, she HomewoodLife.com 25

26 Summer 2025

placed 22nd overall, securing her status as a top contender in the competition at 17:48:3.

During the 2024 cross country season alone, she nabbed gold at the Thompson Warrior Invite, Chickasaw Trails Invite, Black & Gold Classic and both the Class 6A section and state meets. She even beat her own record at the Black & Gold Classic, crossing the finish line at 17:43:7.

“Over the past five years, I’ve watched EB grow,” Kelly McNair, Homewood High School’s head cross country coach, says. “Her talent as a distance runner allowed her to begin competing at the varsity level as an eighth grader. EB went from looking up to the older girls on the team to being the one others looked up to, from chasing the front-runners in a race to being the one chased. She rose to the occasion and grew not only as a competitor, but also as a leader.”

The Penn State signee currently maintains a 4.33 weighted GPA and plans to study biomedical engineering with hopes of working in research for prosthetic limb development. She is also involved with her school’s National Beta Club and its Marine Science Club of which she is vice president.

When she is not in school or running, she can often be found participating in Trinity United Methodist Church’s youth group, Element, where

she helps mentor younger members, or singing in her church’s choir on Sunday mornings.

Like Father, Like Daughter While her resume is extensive, EB says she did not start out as a stand-out athlete.

“I’ve been running since I was pretty young,” she says. “I started running with my dad. He runs every single day.”

EB was no more than 6 when she started noticing her father Mike Levering taking afternoon jogs after work or on the weekends. She began trekking along with him, often slowing down or stopping to catch her breath.

“It was a way me and my dad bonded,” she says, later adding, “we would hold hands. It was really sweet.”

Once EB was able to jog about three miles steadily, her mother Dana Levering began signing the power team up for community runs. Not long after did they begin racing competitively–their most memorable event being the 2016 Magic City 5K when EB was only 9.

EB says she and her father would always run handin-hand, making sure to cross the finish line together.

HomewoodLife.com 27

Congrats from The Coaches “Emma Brooke has proven time and again that she can rise to the top, not only as an athlete, but also as a scholar, building a resume that speaks for itself. Her ability to achieve at the highest levels in both academics and athletics is a direct reflection of her strength of character. What sets her apart is not just her talent, but also her steady discipline, quiet resilience and genuine humility. These are the qualities that make her such a joy to coach. I couldn’t be prouder of all that Emma Brooke has accomplished, and I can’t wait to see all that she will continue to achieve beyond her time at Homewood High School.”

-Logan Cornutt, Homewood High School Track and Field Coach “She is a mentor to the developing athletes and is instrumental in bringing the distance girls together outside of practice for team dinners and fellowship.

Emma Brooke will be greatly missed, but I could not be more excited for her to continue her love for distance running at Penn State University in the fall of 2025.”

-Kelly McNair, Homewood High School Head Cross Country Coach

This time, however, she wanted to push the limits.

“I was like, ‘I want to go faster! I want to go faster!’” she says. “He was like, ‘Emma Brooke, I can’t go faster. You go ahead and go!’ That was the first race I did alone.”

EB went on to finish 23rd overall and first in her age group. That first win solidified her niche.

Mike and Dana soon became cheerleaders, spending multiple nights a week watching EB take on cross country and track during her seventh-grade year.

“They’re both my biggest supporters,” EB says, smiling.

While she started running competitively with Homewood Middle School, EB says it was to help her stay active for soccer season; yet, just like during that Magic City 5K, she found herself chasing something greater than gold. Exactly what that was she would learn in time.

and outdoor track meets through her school. As just an eighth grader, she was scouted by Homewood High School to compete on the school’s varsity team.

She has since won two, back-to-back cross country state championships in 2023 and 2024 and has twice been named Gatorade Alabama Cross Country Player of the Year. In 2024, she also won the Class 6A indoor state meet in the 3,200 meter run and the Class 6A outdoor state meet in both the 1,600 and the 3,200 meter runs.

However, the better she became, EB says, the more she lost sight of her identity.

During the 2025 indoor state track meet, she came down with the flu and strep throat, later suffering an allergic reaction from her antibiotics.

Training became near impossible, but she did not want to let her team down.

She entered the track, got into position and nearly fell when the starting horn sounded. Woozily Striving for Freedom, Not Finish Lines pushing ahead, her internal temperature skyrocketed, steam fuming from her ears.

Now a high school senior, EB has competed in Coming up short, she finished the event sobbing, nearly 100 races, including cross country, indoor kicking herself for performing below average. To 28 Summer 2025

her dismay, her coaches embraced her–even congratulating her on trying her best.

“Running is never easy, and competing at an elite level in high school is even harder,” Logan Cornutt, Homewood High School’s track and field coach, says. “It demands an extraordinary level of commitment: showing up every day, logging miles, pushing through tough workouts, fueling the body, prioritizing recovery and managing the everyday demands of high school on top of it all. Very few students can truly balance it. Emma Brooke Levering is one of those rare few.”

EB says at that moment, she learned just how much she was loved, but she did not even come close to beating a record. Yet, for the first time in a long time, she remembered being 6 again, grasping her father’s hand, squealing with pride as they crossed the finish line.

They never placed first. So, why was she so much happier then?

Over the next few months, EB refocused her gaze.

She began running not to cross finish lines, but to find freedom in doing what she once considered a joy but for too long saw as a chore.

Before she knew it, she had the best year of her athletic career, breaking her high school’s cross country record and even setting a new, personal

best time for herself. Now one of the most decorated student-athletes in Homewood’s history, she says she found what that little girl inside of her was always chasing.

She only found it, however, when she learned that it could never be achieved in medals or mile markers passed. In fact, it was neither gold nor glory.

Instead, it was grace–straight from the One who won the ultimate race.

HomewoodLife.com 29

5

SCHOOL & SPORTS

FIVE QUESTIONS FOR

Kaitlyn Bentley

Owner of True40 Studio PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

Founded in 2016, True40 Studio was started in Auburn as a boutique fitness studio focused on shifting the narrative surrounding modern fitness. While workouts have traditionally been viewed as a means of controlling the body, True40 Studio believes in movement as a celebration of the body. Owner Kaitlyn Bentley left corporate America to join the company at the end of 2016 as a studio manager. She then became the first franchisee, master trainer for instructors and ultimately acquired the brand and franchise in 2022. Here, she details the mission of True40 Studio and its expansion into the Homewood community.

How are True40 workouts geared towards improving quality of life?

The True40 Studio method is a fusion of high-intensity, low-impact strength training that is inspired by barre, functional resistance training, Pilates and yoga. Classes range from 45-60 minutes and offer both optional modifications and challenges, so that you can move in a way that is true to your body.

Through empowering instructors and movements tailored to the beat of the music, the True40 Studio method is a true celebration of movement. We welcome all ages, fitness levels and body types. Our workouts will strengthen and tone muscles, boost cardio endurance and relieve stress.

Our clients often speak of the mental and physical benefits they see.

For pregnant attendees or those recovering postpartum, which classes are best suited to their needs?

Many of our instructors have taught classes throughout pregnancy and postpartum, and all of our instructors undergo training about how to care for our pregnant and postpartum clients. Any of our formats are accessible–fusion, express or cardio–because our instructors are knowledgeable about the adjustments that these specific clients need. We love to chat with them before class, so they feel 30 Summer 2025

comfortable and know what to expect. This applies for anyone who hasn’t worked out in a while or who is returning from an injury.

We also offer childcare services for agespecific groups, so mothers can attend classes.

What are some of your favorite exercises to do?

I love our TRX straps. They bring a unique aspect to our workout, and they are also customizable. You get to decide how much body weight you put into an exercise based on where you stand in the room. They are great for building strength and joint stability.

The list of exercises you can perform using TRX are endless, but some of my favorites are TRX-inverted bicep curls, single arm rows and tricep push downs.

Why is maintaining a healthy lifestyle important to one’s overall happiness and outlook on life?

We talk a lot about the word, “healthy,” and its meaning–longevity, or being able to live a long life full of movement and fun. This doesn’t mean you need to be a certain size or look a certain way. We love to celebrate that “healthy” looks different for everyone and is not “one-size-fits-all.” However you choose to move your body should be fun and something that fills your cup. It’s not

punishment to shrink your body. We love supporting people in that journey because once that realization clicks, life is so much more happy and fun!

When opening up shop in The Edge, how was this location chosen to expand the business?

After the success of our downtown Birmingham location, I knew I wanted to open another studio in the Birmingham area, but I was committed to waiting for something that felt aligned. I watched several other local studios expand, and while it was tempting to do the same, I continued to wait for something that felt right in my soul. Property developers J.J. and Whitney Thomas approached me in early 2024 with a very generous offer, and everything easily fell into place. We love the community feel of The Edge and that it’s a true destination rather than a quick, in-and-out dive. It’s a very centrally located spot that is nestled in West Homewood with easy access to Hoover, Vestavia Hills, Samford University and more.

True40 Studio is located at 819 Green Springs Highway, Suite 117, in The Edge business district of Homewood. For hours and operation, classes and more, visit true40studio.com/homewood or follow the business on Instagram (@true40studio).

HomewoodLife.com 31

32 Summer 2025

&DRINK

FOOD

TASTE OF ASIA Red Pearl transports customers with authentic, unique dishes.

BY LAUREN H. DOWDLE PHOTOS BY UNTOLD IMAGERY HomewoodLife.com 33

34 Summer 2025

S

Some of the best ways to learn about another group are to meet the people and taste their food—and both are possible at one local Chinese restaurant.

Red Pearl serves up daily invitations for residents to experience the Asian culture through food, says manager Linda Lin. She’s been working with the restaurant since it opened in 2003 and says they chose Homewood as the location for the eatery because of its prominent location.

“Homewood is in the center of everything,” she says. “You can go anywhere and travel from other areas here easily.”

A native of China, Linda says it can be nearly impossible to find authentic food in nearby restaurants or grocery stores. Red Pearl helps with that by serving up a wide variety of Chinese food and other Asian-inspired dishes daily.

The adjoining Super Oriental Market also carries items such as fresh groceries, seafood and meat for cooking Chinese, Japanese and Korean dishes at

home—along with snacks to tie customers over until then.

Children especially like to visit the market, Linda says, picking out treats including Hello Kittyinspired popping candy, drinks, suckers, marshmallows, cookies and other tasty sweets. The market also has fun drinks to try such as Ramune, which is a classic Japanese soda with a light, fizzy texture that comes in a variety of fruity flavors.

Back in the restaurant, guests of all ages enjoy family-style meals, where they can sample a variety of menu items. The authentic ingredients used in the restaurant and market come from all parts of Asia and across the United States.

Whether guests crave the comfort food of a traditional Chinese dish or something more adventurous (like the ones in the “Eat Like Locals” sidebar), they are sure to find something to satisfy their tastebuds. With more than 200 dishes on the menu, guests can come back for something new HomewoodLife.com 35

each time they visit.

Red Pearl cooks up dishes like steamed dumplings, orange chicken, twice cooked pork, sautéed intestine with bamboo, whole fish, salty crispy squid, crab, crawfish, tofu, fried rice, chow mei fun and much more.

Some of the most popular menu items include double spicy chicken, Mongolian beef, egg drop soup, sweet and sour chicken and steamed lobster.

One of Linda’s favorite dishes is the salted crispy peeled shrimp. She encourages patrons to try a variety of items when they come to the restaurant to see what they might like.

“You only live once, and you need to experience it,” she says.

For refreshments, the restaurant also carries a 36 Summer 2025

plethora of wine, sake, soju, tea and bubble drinks, along with more standard beverages. They also have a milk drink that’s a popular South Koreanflavored beverage, known for its sweet taste and creamy texture.

Not only have locals discovered the great tastes and atmosphere at the restaurant, but Red Pearl has also caught the attention of the national

spotlight. In 2013, the Travel Channel show “Bizarre Foods America” filmed at Red Pearl as one of its stops in Birmingham. Host Andrew Zimmern visited the restaurant and market during the episode, which showed clips of the whole hog in the market and other dishes.

“It was a great experience to see how the TV show was made,” Linda says.

After the episode aired, she says more people came to eat at the restaurant, with some driving three or four hours to try their dishes. It’s meeting people like those from both near and far that makes her job so enjoyable, she says.

From customers who moved away and come back to children who grew up coming to the restaurant

and are now adults, Linda sees people from all cultures and walks of life each day. Not only does she get to build relationships with the people she meets, but she also encourages residents to do the same by coming to Red Pearl.

“It’s a great experience for them to come here and see the different stuff we offer and meet people from all different areas,” she says.

During her more than two decades at Red Pearl, Linda says it’s hard to pick just one special moment from working there.

“Every day is a new memory for me,” she says.

“It’s been a great experience to meet all of the different people from different countries. I met some customers a long time ago, and then I saw HomewoodLife.com 37

Eat Like Locals While there are Americanized items on Red Pearl’s menu, the restaurant also serves many authentic Chinese dishes that will transport taste buds to another country. A few of the chef’s specials that will take diners out of their comfort zones include the following: Basil Lamb Crispy Pork Intestine Salted Crispy Dragon Fish Salted Crispy Frog

38 Summer 2025

Sizzling Chicken Feet Chicken Pan Fried Noodles Roasted Duck Sautéed Pork Liver

them in the market 20 years later.”

Linda says she and the rest of the team want to continue Red Pearl’s legacy of bringing in people of all ages and nationalities to try their authentic meals for years to come. Whether visitors come for the savory tastes, family atmosphere or unique market finds, she encourages both new customers and patrons to come and give the restaurant a taste.

“Our goal is to stay here longer,” she says. “We work hard every day and find new ways to attract customers—that’s our secret to staying. We’d like for them to come here and check it out.”

Red Pearl is located at 243 West Valley Avenue in Homewood.

The restaurant is open daily from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., and the market is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. each day. For more information, follow Super Oriental Market and Red Pearl on social media or visit superorientalmkt.com.

Celebrating Excellence in Insurance CAC Agency is proud to be named Mountain Brook’s Best Insurance Agency of 2025, with Margaret Ann Pyburn recognized as Best Agent.

Our Personal Lines Practice offers top-tier advisory and insurance services for high-net-worth clients, including: • Aircraft • Watercraft • Builder’s Risk • Private Collections • Life Insurance • Automobile Insurance • Personal Excess Liability • Homeowners Insurance • Equine Insurance Protection Thank you, Mountain Brook, for your trust and support!

cacgroup.com

HomewoodLife.com 39

FOOD & DRINK

5

FIVE QUESTIONS FOR

Nathan Pocus

CEO & Co-Founder of Domestique Coffee PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

Domestique Coffee started back in 2015 as a continuation of a project that brothers and founders Michael and Nathan Pocus started in 2013. They studied global narratives about people and tried to understand whether these narratives were true. They found coffee as the perfect way to connect with people from all over the world and to share their story. Domestique means “helper,” hence the brand’s name as Michael and Nathan desire to be their customers’ helpers daily and to showcase the work done by everyone in the coffee supply chain. Here, Nathan details the founding of Domestique Coffee and its global impact.

What makes Domestique Coffee unique from other similar businesses?

We start with exceptional beans! Then we have a unique way of roasting that creates a very high quality final product.

You wouldn’t believe how many times we’ve heard “this is the best coffee I’ve ever had,” and that never gets old! While you may know us by our awesome beans, we actually started as a Ready 2 Drink company by first launching our Haitian Nitro Cold Brew. You’ll find a variety of cold brew products at both our cafes and our partner locations across the Southeast.

When creating the menu, from where or from whom did you draw your inspiration?

We love agriculture, and we wouldn’t be here without it. Our menus are inspired by seasonality and flavors imparted by the soil.

Specifically regarding our Homewood store, Dawn Patrol, this concept was born from my time living in Santa Cruz, California, waking up early, catching some waves and then hitting the local coffee and burrito shop.

However, our seasonal menus are a whole team effort. We source suggestions across our company through our internal messaging system and then put it to a vote. It’s 40 Summer 2025

wonderful when everyone in the company has a voice in what we serve our customers.

If you had to pair your favorite foodand-beverage combo together from the menu, what would it be?

Personally speaking, it has to be a cappuccino paired with our Avocado Toast.

The Avocado Toast comes topped with our house-made chili oil, and it is just “chef’s kiss.” If I’m looking to grab something sweet, I’ll reach for one of our pastries that are baked fresh daily by Bandit Patisserie. I like to keep it simple: taste the nuance of the coffee. We have something for everyone!

How do you hope your brand positively influences the world, starting with your customers?

At its core, coffee builds community. We love spending time in our cafes, getting to know our neighbors. This is where conversation and understanding happens.

We think we’re doing a pretty good job at this. Domestique has been named “Best in the South” by Southern Living; “Best Roaster and Cafe” in Alabama by Food & Wine Magazine; a “Top 10 Coffee Brand” in the United States by Food & Wine

Magazine; and recently, the “47th Best Cafe in the World” for our location, Domestique Satellite. Accolades are nice, but our customers are the most important thing to us. We truly believe that physical spaces that build community are what we truly need as a society.

What about Homewood led you to open up shop here?

Homewood is such a vibrant community.

When Faris of Cahaba Cycles reached out to us to do a collaborative location, we couldn’t pass up the opportunity. It has always been our dream to have a hub where cycling and coffee can collide. On top of that, my greatgreat-grandmother, Bessie McIntosh, lived in Homewood on Hambaugh Avenue, where I was born and lived until I was 4. My earliest memories are from Homewood! It’s such a wonderful place, and I’m grateful we have the opportunity to continue to build community here through coffee.

Domestique Coffee is located at 1724 27th Court South in Homewood. It is open Monday-Saturday from 6:30 a.m.-4 p.m. and on Sunday from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. For more information, visit domestiquecoffee.com.

MOUNTAIN BROOK’S

BEST WINE

SELECTION

2828 Culver Rd, Mountain Brook www.goldenagewine.com 205 848 8877

“We are committed to helping you find the right wine for every occasion, whether weeknight bottles, celebration bottles, or gifts. While you're here, order a wine flight or share a bottle with an old friend or potential new business connection.”

- Brandon Loper and Trent Stewart

HomewoodLife.com 41

SUBSCRIBE

HOMEWOOD LIFE GET EVERY ISSUE OF HOMEWOOD LIFE DIRECTLY TO YOUR HOUSE.

Scan the QR code below or visit Subscriptions. shelbycountyreporter.com/CircStore/Store/FindAddress ockout box

ith white kn

rw Front cove

HO ME WO

QUE DOMESTI

COFFEE

• MEET

OOD

HOMEW

ADHEAD

DON BRO

F BRAN FIRE CHIE

DE INC.

• KATDAD

OD LIF E

OD’S HOMEWIO NNELRIESD. BEST EW L D. WE TA EXT 50 THE N NCE

YOU VOT

SEE WHO

WON.

THE DA GACY TION’S LE FOUNDA

H om ew oo d L ife . com

true

GRIT 42 Summer 2025 S um mer 20

2025 SUMMER Life.com Homewood o Iss ne | ue Tw Volume Ni $4.95

ING WINS EB LEVER HIP AMPIONS STATE CH

&STYLE

HOME

FAMILY FOUNDATIONS Caleb and Sara Haynes’ gorgeous home is rich in architectural beauty and blessings.

BY ANNA GRACE MOORE PHOTOS BY BLAIR RAMSEY HomewoodLife.com 43

Face of the Home

A

Tucked away under the shade of mighty oak trees, this quiet drive lends itself to rows and rows of historic, 1950s cottages, revitalized in architectural elegance yet still rich with that same, Southern charm. Strolling along, families of birds tweet lullabies from the treetops above as swarms of children squeal gleefully below, chasing after one another on their bicycles.

Both the young and the young-at-heart can be found sipping on iced tea, waving to passersby from the solace of their front porches. Life here is sweet and slow, and that is just what drew Caleb and Sara Haynes to Homewood.

Both Arkansas natives, the couple first met and dated off and on while in high school. Drifting apart in college, they eventually reconnected over their love for waterskiing and competed in a national waterskiing tournament together in Houston, Texas.

As time went on, they tied the knot before finishing school and eventually moved to Homewood for Caleb’s career in 2014. Upon first moving, Caleb says he noticed how communityoriented the city was and how he would one day like to raise their family here.

The couple happened upon their now home, while strolling through the neighborhood one sunny afternoon and immediately put an offer down. A blink of an eye passed, and Caleb says he found himself and Sara navigating life as parents of two young children who had outgrown their beloved home.

In 2020, they connected with Joe Ellis of Dwelling Architecture and Twin Construction, Inc., who helped the family assess whether they could

44 Summer 2025

Adopting the “front porch culture” of their neighbors, the Hayneses opted for a stately, verandainspired entrance, where they could enjoy being outdoors and keeping a close eye on their children.

renovate their home without taking away its livelihood. The team’s structural engineers unfortunately realized the home’s foundation could not withstand the weight of any additions, so the Hayneses were met with some tough decisionmaking. Should they move, or should they tear down this architectural marvel?

Enter stage right–Build UP Birmingham. This Titusville, Alabama-based nonprofit organization was first founded in Birmingham in 2018 and provides low-income youth apprenticeships in the housing industry. Not only does the nonprofit bless an underserved community, but it also physically relocates houses from their homesites to use for educational or housing purposes for their students in need.

As a result, families can tear down and rebuild their homes without worrying about demolishing historical architecture, knowing the lifetime of their house will fulfill unmet needs for many more people. The Hayneses partnered with Build UP Birmingham, which removed their cottage, ushering in a new period for construction.

The family then joined forces with Lauren Murphy of Lauren Murphy Design, who they say exceeded their expectations in bringing their dream home to fruition. Her eye for design is evident in the charming details that give the Haynes family’s home such character.

Three months after moving into their new home, the Hayneses welcomed their third bundle of joy into the world, feeling grateful for the blessing of their home in a community whose foundation is built upon family.

French Doors Connecting the front porch and dining room, these pairs of doors blend elegantly within the house’s design, engulfing this traditional space in natural light.

Compliments of Alabama Sawyer, the dining room table is made from wood of a white oak tree that was struck by lightning on the family’s property.

Mudroom Yet another blessing from the Hayneses’ fallen tree, the mudroom’s cubbies were created from scraps of the tree trunk.

HomewoodLife.com 45

Kitchen The pride of the Hayneses’ home, the kitchen is a masterpiece of feng shui. Centered around the island, Joe drew in the kitchen sink to face one of the posterior windows, allowing Caleb and Sara to take in the views outdoors while washing dishes. Per Lauren’s expertise, the couple chose white quartz countertops for functionality, splurging for a bit of flair on the kitchen’s details.

Wet Bar A gorgeous motif of fine craftsmanship, this tiled back splash Lauren sourced for its unique design, basing the floor-toceiling cabinets’ shade, Benjamin Moore’s Gentleman’s Gray, off of the mosaic’s deep blue hues.

46 Summer 2025

Living Room The family loves to sit on the fireplace’s hearth, snuggled round when entertaining family or opening presents on Christmas and birthdays.

The fireplace, uniquely, is made of soapstone, and the mantle is made of recycled wood from the white oak tree.

Master Bedroom The Corridor

Caleb and Sara enjoy the coziness of their spacious yet intimate suite, especially because the room’s balcony doors open into a cute, little nook on their wraparound porch.

Connecting the open concept to the master suite, this hallway sports a towel nook whose shelves are also made from the tree’s recycled wood.

Master Bathroom Opulent yet unpretentious, this bathroom’s vanity is Alabama White Marble and alludes to the room’s stately aesthetic.

HomewoodLife.com 47

The Loft All three of the children’s bedrooms, including the playroom, laundry room and another bathroom are upstairs in what the family refers to as “the loft.”

Laundry Room To prevent having to run up and down stairs to do laundry, Joe drew in a separate laundry room on the kids’ floor for familial convenience.

Behind the Scenes Home Builder: Twin Construction, Inc. Architect: Joe Ellis, Dwelling Architecture Interior Designer: Lauren Murphy, Lauren Murphy Design 48 Summer 2025

C R R A EEK D E C

NURSERY

HomewoodLife.com 49

50 Summer 2025

The

Cat Whisperer Homewood’s local saint, Todd Lehman, is working to rescue, rehabilitate and rehome every stray cat in town.

BY MICHELLE LOVE PHOTOS BY KELSEA SCHAFER

HomewoodLife.com 51

52 Summer 2025

“It was a mom and four babies, who showed up at my backdoor.”

T

Todd Lehman’s life used to not revolve around cats.

While he grew up with them as family pets, he says he wouldn’t call them his passion by any means.

That all changed in 2018, when some unexpected visitors came to his door.

“It was real simple,” he says. “It was a mom and four babies, who showed up at my backdoor. I start feeding them and taking an invested interest in these cats.”

Todd suddenly became aware of how overwhelming the stray cat population was in Homewood. Up until then, he says he hadn’t noticed any stray cats, but once he did notice, he couldn’t stop thinking about it.

Thus, KatDadde Inc. was born.

“When I started [KatDadde], there wasn’t really a definite direction,” he says. “I started noticing the cats I was taking in for medical reasons or spay and neutering, with a little bit of work, they would be nice, so I started intaking them and adopting

them out.”

Todd started colony feeding stray cats in the area to ensure they had something to eat. Slowly, he started to notice how many of them would bring kittens into the mix, so he started trapping them to get them spayed and neutered. Then, his mission grew to rescuing injured and sick cats and nursing them back to health.

The rescue, whose physical location is in Pinson, currently houses 82 cats, and Todd says he will encounter between 25 to 40 cats during colony feeding around the Homewood area. Of the 82 cats at the rescue, he estimates 70 are from the Homewood area, adding the numbers are constantly growing with new strays showing up due to people moving and dumping their cats around town.

“All the cats are true rescues,” he says. “They all have a different story, but it’s roughly all the same.

The majority of them come in as injured cats, so we provide all the medical to them then adopt them HomewoodLife.com 53

into homes.”

It’s a persistent issue, but Todd has some help from other resources such as Homewood Animal Control and Vulcan Park Animal Care. With the constant influx of cats who aren’t spayed or neutered, or cats who have had a more than rough life, Todd says there are several things people just aren’t willing to do to curb the problem.

He recalls a cat he rescued behind Aldi on Green Springs Highway, who had a gunshot wound to his jaw.

“The good news was the cat had the will to live, and he went through two surgeries, had his whole 54 Summer 2025

lower jaw replaced and the cat, to this day, is doing fantastic, living in Alabaster on a lady’s couch,” he says.

Since it opened, KatDadde has saved more than 600 cats. Todd says it is a constant turnover with very little time to celebrate success stories.

“You’ll have five get adopted, five come in,” he says. “That’s what you want—you want to get them in, get them taken care of and then find them a good home. And when you do, you really don’t have time to say, ‘Hey we did that, they’re going to be okay,’ because you have to move on to the next one.”

That’s not to say Todd doesn’t get attached to

his cats.

“It seems like the tougher the case, the more connected you get,” he says. “Once you get through that initial adrenaline rush, and you know the cat is for sure going to survive, that’s when the connection starts.”

The rescue has also treated 20 FIP (Feline Infectious Peritonitus) cats, which are cats that are infected with the feline coronavirus.

“You get really attached to those cats because the treatment is so long,” he says. “It’s 84 days, and there are so many ups and downs. Those kind of drawn-out situations really get you attached.”

Since KatDadde was started, Todd has not stopped nor wavered in his mission to help spread awareness about the stray cat population. His inbox is constantly receiving messages from people who need help catching a cat in need.

Resting isn’t an option to him because every second matters. The weight of his work, however, can sometimes hit hard.

“We’ve adopted hundreds of cats, but I don’t think about those cats,” he says. “I think about the cats that we couldn’t get the job done.”

Todd says if there’s one thing he wishes people understood, it’s the amount of support that’s needed HomewoodLife.com 55

from the community to make sure these cats get the help they need.

“I don’t know if people realize how big an issue it is how many cats are running around out there that aren’t spayed and neutered,” he says. “Also, people don’t realize the work that goes into rescuing these cats. People will say to me all the time, ‘Oh, I’d love

56 Summer 2025

to do what you do! I just love cats!’ I don’t spend my day sitting around petting and playing with cats, you know? In what we do, it takes everybody.

Physical support, financial support, it takes everybody. If the problem is ever going to be solved, so to speak, more people have to get involved.”

Donations are always greatly appreciated and can

every child takes center stage.

make the difference in a cat’s likelihood to thrive.

“I always tell people I use Crestline Pet Care in Mountain Brook,” he says. “I use Dr. Kylie Harmon for literally everything that we do. God bless her. She’s the best vet I know. Everything we do is on social media, and typically, we’ll do okay with that, but the issues really become the everyday things like FIP medicine or we need to spay and neuter these cats or we need to buy food or we need to pay mortgage on the rescue. People don’t get as excited about that stuff, but that’s the stuff that piles up, too.”

To those thinking about getting involved in KatDadde or would like to help in any way, Todd has some major advice upfront: “Be realistic as far as your expectations,” he says. “I set out to fix and solve the problem, but I didn’t understand the magnitude of the problem. I would say start small in your own neighborhood, start in your backyard, start spaying and neutering cats. People will be feeding cats, which is good—the cats have to be fed—but they aren’t willing to help with the spay and neutering, and that’s the real thing that needs to be tackled.”

For this issue to be solved, Todd says it will take everyone working together to build a “better Homewood” for these feline friends. Luckily, Homewood is one of the best communities when it comes to rallying around a worthy cause.

To learn more about KatDadde, visit the nonprofit’s Instagram page, @katdadde, or its Facebook page, Katdadde Inc. Donations can be made via Venmo (@Katdadde).

At Children’s of Alabama, kids are the center of our world and our mission is to provide the very best care available to every child. It’s why we are here.

1600 7TH AVENUE SOUTH BIRMINGHAM, AL 35233

HomewoodLife.com 57

follow us on social media

BEST

SALON WINNER

BEST STYLIST

WINNER DARRAH HORSLEY

where beauty meets luxury

2839 Cahaba Road, Mountain Brook Village • 205.825.7661 book your luxury experience today! • lauralanesalon.com 58 Summer 2025

HOMEWOOD’S BEST WINNERS 2025

Who’s the best? We asked, and you answered.

Thousands of votes were cast in Homewood Life’s annual Homewood’s Best contest. Read on to find out our readers’ favorites.

Photos by Anna Grace Moore & Contributed

BEST CATERER, BEST MARGARITA Taco Mama – Edgewood HomewoodLife.com 59

FOOD & DRINK BEST BAKERY

BEST CASUAL RESTAURANT, BEST PIZZA Pizzeria G.M.

Savage’s Bakery 2916 18th St. S. Homewood, AL 35209 205-871-4901 Runners Up: Hero Doughnuts & Buns, Edgar’s Bakery BEST BARBECUE Saw’s BBQ 1008 Oxmoor Rd. Homewood, AL 35209 205-879-1937 Runners Up: Rodney Scott’s BBQ – Homewood, Demetri’s BEST BARTENDER KJ Harris – Local No. 39 1006 Oxmoor Rd. Homewood, AL 35209 205-407-4206 Runners Up: Jake Adams – Gianmarco’s Restaurant, Hannah – Little Donkey Mexican Restaurant – Homewood BEST BEER SELECTION Otey’s Tavern – Edgewood 924 Oxmoor Rd. Homewood, AL 35209 205-639-1721 Runners Up: The Battery, Pizzeria G.M. BEST WINE SELECTION Gianmarco’s Restaurant 721 Broadway St. Homewood, AL 35209 205-871-9622 Runners Up: Piggly Wiggly – Homewood, Corbeau Wine Bar – The Edge BEST COCKTAILS

BEST BURGER

BEST COFFEE

Hero Doughnuts & Buns 1726 28th Ave. S. Homewood, AL 35209 205-623-1017

O.Henry’s Coffee 2831 18th St. S. Homewood, AL 35209 205-870-1198

Runners Up: The Battery, Sam’s Deli & Grill

Runners Up: Seeds Coffee Co. – Homewood, Frothy Monkey

BEST CASUAL RESTAURANT

BEST DATE NIGHT RESTAURANT

Pizzeria G.M. 600 Oak Grove Rd. Homewood, AL 35209 205-905-3266 Runners Up: SoHo Social, Taco Mama – Edgewood

Runners Up: Luca Lagotto & Mercato Lagotto, The Battery

BEST CATERER

BEST ETHNIC DINING

Taco Mama – Edgewood 1014 Oxmoor Rd. Homewood, AL 35209 205-414-0441

Local No. 39 1006 Oxmoor Rd. Homewood, AL 35209 205-407-4206

Runners Up: Tina’s Market, Pihakis Restaurant Group

Runners Up: Luca Lagotto & Mercato Lagotto, Little Donkey Mexican Restaurant – Homewood

Chef John Morgan – The Battery 2821 Central Ave., Suite 101 Homewood, AL 35209 205-734-0088

BEST BRUNCH Big Bad Breakfast 1926 29th Ave. S. Homewood, AL 35209 205-666-7099 Runners Up: SoHo Standard, Frothy Monkey

60 Summer 2025

Gianmarco’s Restaurant 721 Broadway St. Homewood, AL 35209 205-871-9622

BEST CHEF

Runners Up: Chef Wil Drake – Hero Doughnuts & Buns, Chef Tina Liollio – Tina’s Market

Red Pearl 243 W. Valley Ave. Homewood, AL 35209 205-945-9558 Runners Up: Maya Mexican Restaurant – Homewood, Shiki Birmingham BEST KID-FRIENDLY DINING Slice Pizza & Brew – Homewood 1010 Oxmoor Rd. Homewood, AL 35209 205-238-5490 Runners Up: Taco Mama – Edgewood, Neighbors West Homewood

BEST BARTENDER KJ Harris – Local No. 39

BEST LUNCH SPOT Otey’s Tavern – Edgewood 924 Oxmoor Rd. Homewood, AL 35209 205-639-1721 Runners Up: Oak Hill Bar & Grill, Hero Doughnuts & Buns

BEST BEER SELECTION, BEST LUNCH SPOT Otey’s Tavern – Edgewood

BEST MARGARITA Taco Mama – Edgewood 1014 Oxmoor Rd. Homewood, AL 35209 205-414-0441 Runners Up: Little Donkey Mexican Restaurant – Homewood, Maya Mexican Restaurant – Homewood BEST MILKSHAKE Neighbors West Homewood 715 Oak Grove Rd. Homewood, AL 35209 205-518-5521 Runners Up: Edgewood Creamery, Hamburger Heaven BEST PATIO DINING SoHo Social 1830 29th Ave. S., Suite 160 Homewood, AL 35209 205-423-8080 Runners Up: Luca Lagotto & Mercato Lagotto, Pizzeria G.M.

BEST PIZZA

BEST UPSCALE RESTAURANT

Pizzeria G.M. 600 Oak Grove Rd. Homewood, AL 35209 205-905-3266

Gianmarco’s Restaurant 721 Broadway St. Homewood, AL 35209 205-871-9622

Runners Up: Slice Pizza & Brew – Homewood, Dave’s Pizza

Runners Up: Luca Lagotto & Mercato Lagotto, SoHo Standard

BEST SWEET TREATS

HEALTH & FITNESS

Cookie Fix 2854 18th St. S. Homewood, AL 35209 205-582-2623 Runners Up: Neighbors West Homewood, Hero Doughnuts & Buns

BEST CHIROPRACTIC CARE PRACTICE

Witt Chiropractic 1919 Courtney Dr. Homewood, AL 35209 205-871-1888 Runners Up: Oxmoor Chiropractic, Back on Track Chiropractic Homewood – Birmingham

HomewoodLife.com 61

BEST WINE SELECTION, BEST DATE NIGHT RESTAURANT, BEST UPSCALE RESTAURANT Gianmarco’s Restaurant BEST DENTAL PRACTICE Central Avenue Dentistry 2901 Central Ave. Homewood, AL 35209 205-870-1363 Runners Up: Brighter Image Dentistry, Shades Creek Dental BEST PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY Rousso Pediatric Dentistry 2716 18th Pl. S., Suite 100 Homewood, AL 35209 205-203-0584 Runners Up: Powell Pediatric Dentistry, Lovell Pediatric Dentistry BEST ORTHODONTIC

PRACTICE

Skin Wellness Dermatology 3415 Independence Dr., Suite 200 Homewood, AL 35209 205-871-7332 Runners Up: Renew Dermatology, Seiler Skin BEST ESTHETICIAN Tatiana Ghilan – Salon U 2824 Linden Ave. Homewood, AL 35209 205-870-8708 Runners Up: Alexa Lee – Seiler Skin, Leigh Ann Dean – Seiler Skin

PRACTICE

BEST EYE CARE PRACTICE

Backus Smiles 3507 Old Montgomery Hwy. Homewood, AL 35209 205-879-0557

Dry Eye Center of Alabama 3490 Independence Dr., Suite 110 Homewood, AL 35209 205-490-2322

Runners Up: Law Orthodontics, Oxmoor Valley Orthodontics

Runners Up: VisionFirst Eye Center, Eye Care Associates

BEST DOCTOR

BEST FITNESS CENTER

Dr. Blake Raggio – Raggio

Burn Boot Camp –

MD Facial Plastic Surgery 1920 Huntington Rd. Homewood, AL 35209 659-272-0092

Homewood 1035 Broadway Pk. Homewood, AL 35209 205-529-8444

Runners Up: Dr. Warren Seiler – Seiler Skin, Dr. Corey Hartman – Skin Wellness Dermatology

Runners Up: True40 Studio – The Edge, Battle Republic

BEST PEDIATRIC MEDICAL Signature Health PC 2910 Crescent Ave., Suite 100 Homewood, AL 35209 205-380-8820 Runners Up: Mayfair Medical Group, Alabama Pediatrics

62 Summer 2025

BEST DERMATOLOGY

BEST FITNESS CENTER Burn Boot Camp – Homewood BEST PERSONAL TRAINER

BEST PHARMACY

BEST PHYSICAL THERAPY

Magen Davis, Burn Boot Camp

Homewood Pharmacy 940 Oxmoor Rd. Homewood, AL 35209 205-871-9000

The Total Joint Physical

– Homewood 1035 Broadway Pk. Homewood, AL 35209 205-529-8444 Runners Up: Kaitlyn Bentley, True40 Studio – The Edge; Steve Mares – Battle Republic

Runners Up: Publix Super Market at Edgemont Town Center, Lakeshore Pharmacy

Therapy – Homewood 700 Valley Ave., Suite C Homewood, AL 35209 205-224-4147 Runners Up: Rooted Physio LLC, EW Motion Therapy – Homewood

HomewoodLife.com 63

BEST TEACHER Emily Wilder – Edgewood Elementary School

BEST MEDSPA

BEST LOCAL PERSONALITY

BEST PRIVATE SCHOOL

Prime IV Hydration & Wellness

Cole Cubelic – SEC Network

Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic

– Homewood 1831 28th Ave. S., Suite 155 Homewood, AL 35209 205-973-6971 Runners Up: Seiler Skin, Escape Day Spa BEST SPA Escape Day Spa 100 Broadway St. Homewood, AL 35209 205-414-6062 Runners Up: Salon U, Skin Wellness Dermatology

COMMUNITY BEST APARTMENT COMPLEX Hallman Hill Condominiums 1900 Oxmoor Rd. Homewood, AL 35209 Runners Up: Estelle, The Hill at Eastbury BEST DANCE/GYMNASTICS STUDIO

The Dance Foundation 1715 27th Ct. S. Homewood, AL 35209 205-870-0073 Runners Up: Magic City Cheer, CheerPro Training

64 Summer 2025

Runners Up: Nick Halfacre, Rodney Scott’s BBQ – Homewood; Rusty Holley – Homewood Parks & Recreation BEST PLACE FOR A FAMILY OUTING

Neighbors West Homewood 715 Oak Grove Rd. Homewood, AL 35209 205-518-5521 Runners Up: The Edge, Homewood Public Library BEST PLACE FOR A KID’S BIRTHDAY

Neighbors West Homewood 715 Oak Grove Rd. Homewood, AL 35209 205-518-5521 Runners Up: Homewood Central Park, Goodies Toy Store BEST PLACE OF WORSHIP

School 1720 Oxmoor Rd. Homewood, AL 35209 205-879-3237 Runners Up: Creative Montessori School, John Carroll Catholic High School BEST PUBLIC SCHOOL Edgewood Elementary School 901 College Ave. Homewood, AL 35209 205-423-2400 Runners Up: Hall-Kent Elementary School, Homewood High School BEST TEACHER Emily Wilder – Edgewood Elementary School Runners Up: Rebecca Smith – Shades Cahaba Elementary School, Douglas Welle – Homewood High School

Trinity United Methodist

SHOPPING & SERVICES

Church – Homewood Campus 1400 Oxmoor Rd. Homewood, AL 35209 205-879-1737

BEST ANIMAL CLINIC

Runners Up: Our Lady of Sorrows Church, Dawson Memorial Baptist Church

Homewood Animal Hospital 501 Scott St. Homewood, AL 35209 205-943-0008 Runners Up: Oxmoor Animal Clinic, Nall Daniels Animal Hospital

HOMEWOOD’S

BEST HO

2025 WINNER

MEW

OODLIFE.C

OM

Thank you, Homewood!

VOTED #1 IN HOMEWOOD

for best REAL ESTATE AGENCY Thank you for voting us the #1 real estate agency in Homewood! We are A Relationship Company and honored to be an essential member of the community we live in and love. Please stop in to see us and say hello.

2732 18th Place South | Homewood, AL 35209 | 205.969.8911

A Relationship Company

arcrealtyco.com

HomewoodLife.com 65

BEST PET BOARDER/TRAINING

BEST BANK

Dogtopia of Homewood 1722 27th Ct. S. Homewood, AL 35209 205-440-3888

Bryant Bank 1919 28th Ave. S., Suite 101 Homewood, AL 35209 205-802-6300

Runners Up: Wags ‘N Whiskers Comprehensive Pet Care, Homewood Animal Hospital

Runners Up: Regions Bank, Synovus Bank

BEST PET GROOMER Dogtopia of Homewood 1722 27th Ct. S. Homewood, AL 35209 205-440-3888 Runners Up: Wags ‘N Whiskers Comprehensive Pet Care, Rub-a-Dub Dog Bathhouse and Spa BEST PET STORE The Whole Dog Market 2937 18th St. S. Homewood, AL 35209 205-783-1169

BEST CATERER, BEST MARGARITA Taco Mama – Edgewood

66 Summer 2025

Runners Up: Dogtopia of Homewood, Pet Supplies Plus

BEST CREDIT UNION Avadian Credit Union 475 Green Springs Hwy. Homewood, AL 35209 205-942-9977 Runners Up: Alabama Central Credit Union, APCO Employees Credit Union BEST BOUTIQUE At Home Furnishings 2921 18th St. S. Homewood, AL 35209 205-879-3510 Runners Up: The Cottage Basket, Eighteen South Homewood

You Deserve to Love the Skin You’re In

HOMEWOOD’S

BEST HO

2025 WINNER

MEW

OODLIFE.C

OM

Our Team of Experts Specializes in Results-Driven Skincare Customized Just for You Schedule a Consultation Today

NOW ACC E P T I N G N E W PAT IE NTS IN TWO CO N V E N I E N T LO CATIO NS Homewood 3415 Independence Drive, Ste 200 Birmingham, AL 35209 Greystone 5406 US-280 E, Suite A-100 Birmingham, AL 35242 For Appointments Call 205-871-7332 or visit us at skinwellness.com HomewoodLife.com 67

BEST CHILDCARE ABC Child Development Center 1300 Columbiana Rd. Homewood, AL 35216 205-942-2281

BEST HOME FURNISHINGS/DÉCOR STORE, BEST JEWELRY STORE, BEST BOUTIQUE At Home Furnishings

Runners Up: Homewood Day School, Heritage Preschool – Homewood BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE Alabama Goods – Homewood 2933 18th St. S. Homewood, AL 35209 205-803-3900 Runners Up: Fringe, Twenty Twelve Formal Wear BEST FRIENDLY SERVICE Neighbors West Homewood 715 Oak Grove Rd. Homewood, AL 35209 205-518-5521 Runners Up: Tina’s Market, Little Donkey Mexican Restaurant – Homewood

BEST DRY CLEANER

BEST ELECTRICIAN

Watkins Cleaners of Homewood

Sentry Heating, Air

Inc. 1715 28th Ave. S. Homewood, AL 35209 205-879-7951

Conditioning, Plumbing &

Runner Up: Hunter’s Cleaners, Mark’s Cleaners

68 Summer 2025

Electrical 205-235-8793 Runners Up: OnTime Service, Xcalibur Services

HomewoodLife.com 69

BEST HVAC Sentry Heating, Air Conditioning, Plumbing & Electrical 205-235-8793 Runners Up: Iron City Heating & Air; Standard Heating, Cooling & Plumbing BEST PLUMBER Sentry Heating, Air Conditioning, Plumbing & Electrical 205-235-8793 Runners Up: Guin Service LLC, Superior Plumbing & Drain BEST FINANCIAL ADVISING GROUP

Nowlin & Associates Wealth Management 2718 20th St. S. Homewood, AL 35209 205-871-9993 Runners Up: Edgewood Wealth Advisors, Edward Jones – Financial Advisor: Rachel E. Reynolds BEST FINANCIAL ADVISOR Zach Sims – Nowlin & Associates Wealth Management 2718 20th St. S. Homewood, AL 35209 205-871-9993 Runners Up: Joe Stephens – Edgewood Wealth Advisors, Edward Jones – Financial Advisor: Rachel E. Reynolds BEST FLORIST Wild Things 2815B 18th St. S. Homewood, AL 35209 205-703-8821 Runners Up: Blakelee’s Bouquets, Piggly Wiggly – Homewood BEST GIFT SHOP Alabama Goods – Homewood 2933 18th St. S. Homewood, AL 35209 205-803-3900 Runners Up: The Cottage Basket, Three Sheets – A Linen Shop

BEST FLORIST Wild Things BEST HAIR SALON

BEST REMODELER

Fringe 1830 29th Ave. S., Suite 120 Homewood, AL 35209 205-802-3888

Twin Construction, Inc. 2907 Central Ave., Suite 105 Homewood, AL 35209 205-802-3920

Runners Up: French & Towers Salon Co., Salon U

Runners Up: River Brook Design & Construction, Blackstone Construction LLC

BEST HAIR STYLIST James Thomas – Salon U 2824 Linden Ave. Homewood, AL 35209 205-870-8708 Runners Up: Fran Chaiprakob – Fringe, Devin Ford – Fringe BEST HOME FURNISHINGS/ DÉCOR STORE

At Home Furnishings 2921 18th St. S. Homewood, AL 35209 205-879-3510 Runners Up: Alabama Goods – Homewood, Christopher Collection BEST HOME BUILDER Twin Construction, Inc. 2907 Central Ave., Suite 105 Homewood, AL 35209 205-802-3920 Runners Up: Blackstone Construction LLC, River Brook Design & Construction

70 Summer 2025

BEST INTERIOR DESIGNER Whitney Tingle – Christopher Collection 2913 Linden Ave. Homewood, AL 35209 205-719-3206 Runners Up: Caroline Sain – The Blue Fern, Kat Bailey – Kat Bailey Interiors BEST JEWELRY STORE At Home Furnishings 2921 18th St. S. Homewood, AL 35209 205-879-3510 Runners Up: Crowne Jewelers, Wallace-Burke Fine Jewelry & Collectibles BEST KIDS CLOTHING STORE Jack N’ Jill Shop 2719 19th Pl. S. Homewood, AL 35209 205-879-7681 Runners Up: Swaddle, Soca Girl

BEST COFFEE O.Henry's Coffee

Thank you for voting us

BEST SWEET TREAT! HomewoodLife.com 71

BEST PET BOARDER/ TRAINING, BEST PET GROOMER Dogtopia of Homewood

BEST LANDSCAPING COMPANY Grasshopper Lawn & Landscaping 205-999-5801 Runners Up: Gardner Landscaping LLC, Taproot Landscaping BEST LOCAL INSURANCE AGENCY

Thomas Waters – State Farm Insurance Agent 3103 Independence Dr. Homewood, AL 35209 205-879-1988 Runners Up: Stead & Fuller Insurance Co., Frank Ippolito – State Farm Insurance Agent BEST LOCAL INSURANCE AGENT Thomas Waters – State Farm Insurance Agent 3103 Independence Dr. Homewood, AL 35209 205-879-1988 Runners Up: Stan Faulkner – State Farm Insurance Agent, C.D. Denson – Stead & Fuller Insurance Co.

72 Summer 2025

BEST LOCAL FESTIVAL We Love Homewood Day BEST LOCAL REAL ESTATE AGENCY

ARC Realty – Homewood 2732 18th Pl. S., Suite A Homewood, AL 35209 205-969-8911 Runners Up: Keller Williams Realty – Homewood, LAH Sotheby’s International Realty – Homewood BEST LOCAL REAL ESTATE AGENT Matt Wallington, ARC Realty – Cahaba Heights 4274 Cahaba Heights Ct., Suite 200 Vestavia Hills, AL 35243 205-999-5801 Runners Up: Barbara Wheeler, ARC Realty – Homewood; Lindsay Sport, Keller Williams Realty – Homewood BEST LOCAL REAL ESTATE TEAM Mandy Williams Realty Group, Keller Williams Realty – Homewood 3040 Independence Dr., Suite A Homewood, AL 35209 205-332-1978 Runners Up: Kellie Drozdowicz Group, Keller Williams Realty – Homewood; T2 Team, ARC Realty – Cahaba Heights

BEST MORTGAGE GROUP

BEST TOY STORE

Bryant Bank 1919 28th Ave. S., Suite 101 Homewood, AL 35209 205-802-6300

Homewood Toy & Hobby Shop 2830 18th St. S. Homewood, AL 35209 205-879-3986

Runners Up: Adam Snable – Guild Mortgage, Avadian Credit Union

Runners Up: Goodies Toy Store, Swaddle

BEST NAIL SALON

ARTS & CULTURE

Genesis Nail Spa at Homewood 350 19th St. S., Suite 51 Homewood, AL 35209 205-802-0639 Runners Up: Rachel Andrews – Salon U, Nail World II BEST NEW BUSINESS (OPEN ONE YEAR OR LESS)

The Edge 815, 817 & 819 Green Springs Hwy. Homewood, AL 35209 Runners Up: Slice Pizza & Brew – Homewood, Prime IV Hydration & Wellness – Homewood BEST SPECIALTY STORE

BEST LOCAL CAUSE The Bell Center for Early Intervention Programs 1700 29th Ct. S. Homewood, AL 35209 205-879-3417 Runners Up: The Exceptional Foundation, Food For Our Journey BEST LOCAL FESTIVAL We Love Homewood Day Runners Up: The Exceptional Foundation’s Chili Cook-Off, Homewood Christmas Parade

Little Professor Bookshop 2738 18th St. S. Homewood, AL 35209 205-703-9010 Runners Up: Alabama Goods – Homewood, Twenty Twelve Formal Wear

HomewoodLife.com 73

AUTO SERVICES BEST AUTO SERVICE Rob’e Mans Automotive Service 2600 18th St. S. Homewood, AL 35209 205-871-4712 Runners Up: Express Oil, Hatfield Auto Parts and Service BEST OIL CHANGE Express Oil Change & Tire Engineers 1717 27th Ct. S. Homewood, AL 35209 205-879-4499 Runners Up: Hatfield Auto Parts and Service, Midas – Homewood BEST TIRE SERVICE Omega Tires 845 Green Springs Hwy. Homewood, AL 35209 205-942-0005 Runners Up: Rob’e Mans Automotive Service, Express Oil

74 Summer 2025

BEST NEW BUSINESS (OPEN ONE YEAR OR LESS) The Edge

HomewoodLife.com 75

Outside the City Exploring New York State

Looking to escape the heat of an Alabama summer? Wanting to get away from the tourists crowding the Florida beaches? Consider heading up north to the quiet atmosphere of New York State. From the breezy coast to the tranquil lakes to the mighty falls, New York has a lot to explore outside the city.

By Kate Seaver | Photos by Discover Long Island, Niagara Falls Canada, Niagara Falls USA, Visit Finger Lakes & Contributed by Inlet Seafood Dock & Restaurant (Facebook) 76 Summer 2025

HomewoodLife.com 77

HIT THE ROAD

NIAGARA FALLS The unofficial “eighth wonder of the world,” Niagara Falls provides a cool escape from the typical southern summer. Renowned for its beauty, it pushes more than 2,000 tons of water over the falls every second. Carve out time during your vacation to explore the falls’ natural serenity and enjoy the breezy summer weather.

WHERE TO STAY

Stay in the famous Oakes Hotel Overlooking the Falls to see the view from your bedroom window. You’ll see the unobstructed vantage point when you open your eyes in the morning! On the Canadian side, Old Stone Inn is a historic, boutique hotel with dining options ranging from cabins to domes, so you can eat in a cozy, rustic atmosphere. The Inn has a wine bar open Thursday through Sunday and also has a dog-friendly policy.

Old Stone Inn

78 Summer 2025

WHAT TO DO

For your daytime excursions, make sure to hit the Maid of the Mist boat tours to see the falls from down in the water! Descend into the gorge, and feel the mist on your skin from the wooden walkways with the Cave of the Winds experience. Another popular attraction is the Seneca Niagara Casino with popular live entertainment. Less than a 30 minute-drive away, the city of Buffalo has more dining options and urban activities.

Make sure to bring your passports to see the view from the Canadian side, too!

In Ontario, Niagara Falls offers more hot spots such as Skylon Tower Revolving Restaurant, Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens and WildPlay Zipline to the Falls.

WHERE TO EAT

The Top of the Falls restaurant is the only local dining spot where you can take in the sights while enjoying dinner! This restaurant serves locally-made food and beverages rich in modern American cuisine alongside several classic dishes.

HomewoodLife.com 79

HIT THE ROAD

THE FINGER LAKES While touring your way through the beautiful state of New York, catch some R&R at the tranquil Finger Lakes. Located a few hours east of Niagara Falls, you’ll find this region is known for its ample wineries and vineyards, sporting beautiful outdoor views. The Finger Lakes, referred to locally as FLX, have mild summers with daily temperatures reaching a balmy 70-to-80 degrees Fahrenheit, cooling down in the evenings.

WHERE TO STAY

The area around these glacial lakes is full of historic inns and bed-and-breakfasts that will transport you to the earlier days of the United States. A few popular selections include William Smith Inn—a B&B in the home that once belonged to historical figure William Smith. The Lake House on Canandaigua is a lakefront resort featuring multiple, luxury restaurants and lake-facing balconies that feel like grandma’s front porch. Geneva on the Lake, a stately villa built in the style of Italian Renaissance architecture, hosts multiple restaurants of its own and is a short drive from Geneva’s historic district. Belhurst Castle, built between 1885-1889, has it all: a riveting history, a winery, fine dining and a salon with a spa.

Belhurst Castle

WHAT TO DO

Activities common for this region are equally easygoing.

Stroll along the waterfront walking path at Seneca Lake State Park, or get into the lakes via kayak for an easy trip riding the current. Rent a pontoon for a day with Finger Lakes Boat Rentals, or set off kayaking or paddleboarding with Seneca Lake Kayak. Cruise along the Canandaigua Lady, a paddlewheel steamboat offering lake tours and meals from May through October each year.

Of course, a visit to the largest wine region in New York would be incomplete without a tasting and a visit to a vineyard! Canandaigua Lake Wine Trail features seven different wineries. Purchase the digital passport for perks and discounts at the different locations on the trail.

Pay a visit to Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery, which is located in a historic home overlooking Keuka Lake, and celebrate the pioneer of the Finger Lakes wine industry.

Red Newt Cellars hosts a hearty, sit-down lunch on the weekends to pair with your tasting. Buttonwood Grove Winery features live music on the porch on Saturdays during the summer and even has on-site cabins for an overnight stay.

WHERE TO EAT

Get out and see more of the region—have dinner at F.L.X. Table for an intimate dinner party atmosphere.

Named “Best New Restaurant” in the nation by “USA Today” in 2017, this restaurant is reservation-only, and the bookings are released two months in advance.

Roots Cafe features live music at its farm-to-table restaurant. Reservations here are highly recommended, and they serve meals for lunch and dinner Thursday through Saturday, as well as Sunday brunch.

80 Summer 2025

MONTAUK Known as the quieter, more authentic side of the Hamptons, Montauk provides a laidback, coastal experience that really embodies what it means to “vacation.” Visit this charming hamlet for the smalltown atmosphere, and enjoy the slow, luxurious life of the East Coast.

WHERE TO STAY

For a European feel, stay in the stately Montauk Manor. This historic, castle-like accommodation creates an experience like no other. This hotel offers full amenities including sunset yoga on the lawn and tennis courts.

The classic Gurney’s Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa offers oceanfront rooms and amenities including a private beach, spa and bathhouse. Choose between rooms, cottages and residential-style accommodations.

WHAT TO DO

To get a taste of the rustic, slow-living that Montauk embraces, take your family horseback riding at Deep Hollow Ranch. The ranch provides rides for all ages, and everyone 8 years old and older can participate in the beach rides. For the safety of the horses, there is a weight limit of 240 pounds.

Don’t miss the classic Montauk Point Lighthouse, which was originally commissioned by President George Washington and is the fourth-oldest working lighthouse in the United States. Admission is $15 for adults or $5 for children under 12.

Every Thursday during the summer season, the Montauk Farmers Market hosts more than 40 vendors selling everything from flowers to fresh produce! Swing by to take home a locally made souvenir.

Ditch Plains Beach is a popular public beach with scenic views of the cliffs. Enjoy a sunset stroll, and bring along your dog for some exercise.

WHERE TO EAT

When staying on the coast, it would be a crime not to partake in fresh seafood on the water.

Inlet Seafood Dock & Restaurant will serve up its famous tuna nachos while you enjoy the sunset views and the full-service bar. On Sundays after 4 p.m., kids eat free! Gosman’s Restaurant has been serving fresh seafood to the Montauk community since 1951.

Harvest on Fort Pond serves Montauk Italian fare and creative garden cocktails, too.

Inlet Seafood Dock & Restaurant

HomewoodLife.com 81

Homewood Chamber of Commerce C O N N E C T I O N S

Recent Events

Upcoming Events

Jan. 14 - Coffee and Connections at Courtyard Birmingham Homewood

Jan. 21 - January Membership Luncheon and State of the City Address

Feb. 5 - Coffee and Connections at Caveat

Feb. 18 - February Membership Breakfast

March 13 - Taste of Homewood

March 18 - March Membership Breakfast

May 3

We Love Homewood Day Festival

May 20

Monthly Membership Breakfast

June 17

June Monthly Breakfast

July 26

Sidewalk Sale

Aug. 19

Membership Luncheon at Samford University

Join The Chamber Chamber membership could be just what your business needs for a boost this year! Work, live or do business in Homewood? Apply for membership at homewoodchamber. org and start taking advantage of the many benefits that come with membership!

7 HOLLYWOOD BOULEVARD 82 Summer 2025

HOMEWOOD, ALABAMA 35209

F i n d U s O n l i ne

Sign up for our weekly newsletter | Access our member directory Purchase Buy Local Homewood eGift Cards

Ribbon Cuttings Jan. 7 - Prime IV

Jan. 8 - The Total Joint Physical Therapy

New Members Iron City Trykes/Birmingham AMBUCS

Jan. 14 - American Family Care

Jan. 15 - Iron City Trykes/ Birmingham AMBUCS

Anne James Hair Co. Fast Pace Health Urgent Care American Family Care Lambert Moving System

Jan. 17 - Shades Creek Greenway Phase 2 Extension

Jan. 17 - Anne James Hair Company

Surv Birmingham Birmingham Legion FC Cleere Selling Marc-1 Car Wash

Feb. 12 - Fast Pace Health Urgent Care

Feb. 20 - C Spire’s New Office

SUPERSPINE CHIROPRACTIC, L.L.C. Starnes Davis Florie LLP Allen Mortgage Roll Cajun LLC

Feb. 21 - Residence Inn Homewood/Mountain Brook

March 4 - 1918 Fat Tuesday Open House

205 - 871 - 5631

WWW.HOMEWOODCHAMBER.ORG HomewoodLife.com 83

OUT & ABOUT

1

2

HOMEWOOD CHAMBER LUNCHEON

3

PHOTOS BY ANNA GRACE MOORE

On Wednesday, Jan. 22 at The Valley Hotel, Homewood Mayor Alex Wyatt delivered his annual “State of the City Address,” honoring the city’s employee of the year awardees as well.

1.

The Ricketts family

2.

Michelle Kinard and Elizabeth Winslett

3.

Lori Jackson, Melanie Jennings, Blake Graves and Brandon Broadhead

4.

Beverly Cochran and Cristy Richardson

5.

JJ Bischoff and Shay Gartman

6.

Homewood Public Library Staff

7.

Jylon Jones and Courtney Lamberth

8.

Kate Etheredge, Judith Wright and Michelle Hamrick

9.

Mark Shannon, Matt Hall and Brandon Broadhead with Cody and Hayden Dickison alongside Alexander Glover

10. Courtney Heath and Mattie Kehl

84 Summer 2025

4

6

5

OUT & ABOUT

7

8

9

10

— 4 Color Options — for the Price of White while supplies last

ON CUSTOM CLOSETS, HOME OFFICES, GARAGES, ENTERTAINMENT CENTERS & MORE*

Setting the standard in Custom Closet Design for over 40 years

• Choose from the largest selection of colors, styles, and finishes • Our designers work with you every step of the way • Collaborate to create a personalized design for your needs and space

205-594-6724

closetfactory.com

Schedule your FREE design consultation today! *Some restrictions apply.

177

HomewoodLife.com 85

OUT & ABOUT

1

2

FIRST PITCH WITH THE PATRIOTS

3

PHOTOS BY LISA CHEEK PHOTOGRAPHY

On Thursday, Jan. 23 at Christ Fellowship Church, the Homewood Athletic Foundation held a meet-andgreet between the public and Homewood High School athletes and coaches with special appearances from keynote speaker and Auburn University Head Baseball Coach Butch Thompson as well as Houston Astros Pitcher Kendall Graveman.

1.

Lucy, Gregory and Bethany Murray

2.

Jack Bland, Henry Delk, Ivan Pruitt, Michael Baguley, Ben Roberts, William Tanner and Sims Young

3.

Cameron, Will and Benji Daniel with Wes and Colton Letson alongside Cole Mastroiani

4.

The von Seelen and Bland families

5.

Lee Hall and Homewood High School Athletes

6.

Ava Kate Parris, Caroline Dabbs, Payne Sheehan and Kaylee Sills

7.

Wesley Cook, Ava Chiesa and Cecily Daughtery

8.

Knox Whitaker, Grant York and Charlie Stephens

9.

Brent and Brooke Gillis with Alexa and Mel McElroy

86 Summer 2025

4

5

OUT & ABOUT

6

8

7

9

HomewoodLife.com 87

OUT & ABOUT

1

2

EXCEPTIONAL FOUNDATION CHILI COOK-OFF

3

PHOTOS BY JAMES CULVER

On Saturday, March 1 at Brookwood Village, the Exceptional Foundation held its annual chili cook-off, featuring 140 cook teams and more than 14,000 attendees.

1.

Bama J and Friends

2.

Chris and Sophia Stapler

3.

Matt and Erin Creighton with Griff Cooper and Eliza Bicksler

4.

Sydney Reeves

5.

Abby Bru

6.

The Thompson family

7.

The Jones family

8.

Georgia and Lori McGee with Burt Bellande

9.

Ann Elizabeth Stabler, Julia Hackney and Katherine Jordan

4

10. Shaw Technology 11. Emily and Claire Womack 12. Jacob and Taylore Hopkins with Kylie Reynolds and Mackenzie Allen 13. Regan Lang, Bailey Baldwin, Mae Sherrod, Julia Swiercek and Jillian Hart 14. Mike and Birdie Hicks

88 Summer 2025

6

5

OUT & ABOUT

7

8

9

11

13

10

12

14

HomewoodLife.com 89

OUT & ABOUT

1

2

ST. PATRICK’S DAY FUNDRAISING DINNER

3

PHOTOS BY JAMES CULVER

On Saturday, March 1 at The Valley Hotel, the Homewood Rotary Club held a St. Patrick’s Day-themed fundraising event, featuring a plated dinner, a silent auction and live music by the Celtic band, Hooley. Proceeds benefited scholarships for Homewood High School seniors.

1.

Steve Skipper and Robert Holmes

2.

Hendrix Miller

3.

Lisa Eckenrod, Mary Lou Reynolds, Melinda Underwood, Jennifer Kyle and Sandy Nelson

4.

Diana Paulk and Camelia Holmes

5.

Dana and Denver Betts

6.

Sherry Kamber, Chris Thomason and Terry Schrimscher

7.

Luke Hanson and Rebecca Rogers

8.

Susan, Al and Anna Grace Murray with Lori Salter and Cathy and Steve Warrington

9.

Glenn and Martha Ellis with Lee and Tammy James

10. Kimbo McGee and Jeff Templin

90 Summer 2025

4

6

5

OUT & ABOUT

7

9

8

10

HomewoodLife.com 91

OUT & ABOUT

1

2

TASTE OF HOMEWOOD 2025

3

4

PHOTOS BY JAMES AND RACHEL CULVER

On Thursday, March 13 at SoHo Square, the Homewood Chamber of Commerce held its annual “Taste of Homewood” event, featuring more than 20 different food and beverage vendors.

1.

Amber Nelson and Tarek Abdalla

2.

Telra Rocker, Jasmine Sledge and Edward Reynolds

3.

Kevin and Melissa Garwood

4.

Ava Middlebrooks and Bo Seagrist

5.

The Cozzone family

6.

Emily Sawtelle, Laura Williams and Brooke Berry

7.

Johnny and Liz Montgomery

8.

Michaels Barnes, Charity Hart and Owen Burns

9.

Daniel Entrekin and Janiee Rush

5

10. Tiffany and Quentin Escott 11. The Ellerman family

6

92 Summer 2025

7

OUT & ABOUT

8

10

9

11

HomewoodLife.com 93

MARKETPLACE

Marketplace Homewood Life Magazine • 205.669.3131

Automation Personnel Services Hiring IMMEDIATELY For: Automotive Assembly, General Labor, Production, Clerical, Machine Operator, Quality, Carpentry, Welder, Foundry.

Positions In: Calera, Clanton, Pelham, Bessemer, McCalla.

Walk-in applications accepted. Clanton (205)280-0002. Pelham (205)444-9774.

Bama Concrete Now Hiring: Diesel Mechanic 4 Years Minimum Experience. CDL Preferred. Competitive Pay. Great Benefits.

Apply in person: 2180 Hwy 87 Alabaster, 35007 Now Hiring For Utility Positions Starting pay $15.14/hour Must be able to pass background screen. Please apply at: www.bc.com Central Alabma Wellness Mental Health Services Office locations in Calera, Clanton, Pelham, and 280! 205-651-0077 Visit our website to learn more centralalbama wellness.org Shelby County Schools Substitute Teachers Limitless opportunities for passionate people!

•Free pre-hire training •Paid orientation •Ongoing professional development

94 Summer 2025

•Steady, yet flexible, work •Weekly pay •Your preference of schools Contact Anne Gamble:O: 205.682.7062 M: 205.532.1122 anne. gamble@kellyservices. com Marble Valley Manor.

Affordable 1 and 2 Bedroom Apartments for Elderly & Disabled.

Many on-site services!

2115 Motes Rd, Sylacauga. 256-2456500 •TDD#s: 800548-2547(V) •800-5482546(T/A). Office Hours: Mon-Fri, 8am-4pm.

Equal Opportunity Provider/Employer Security Guard for Gated Community in North Shelby County Full-time or Part-time.

Must have pistol permit.

Call Brittany 205-9914653 University Baptist CDC Pre-K In Montevallo NOW HIRING Lead Teachers for First Class 4 Pre-K program.

Long Term substitute for spring semester and maternity leave substitute April-May. Lead Teacher subs must have a bachelor degree in Early Childhood Education/ Development.

Experience in First Class program and Bilingual skills a plus. For questions or resumes, contact Lorrie Ozley:

HomewoodLife.com

universitybaptistcdc@ gamil.com Preschool preregistration for 20252026 school year January 15-March prek. alaceed.alabama.gov Become a Dental Assistant in ONLY 8 WEEKS! Please visit our website capstonedental assisting.com or call (205)561-8118 and get your career started!

ETS Restorations & Tree Service “From street to walls, we do it all” •Retaining Walls •Concrete Work •Demolition •Landscaping •Tree Removal •Tree Trimming •Bobcat Work •Hardscapes •Hauling FREE ESTIMATES!!!

CALL NOW (205)2097787 (205)683-3257 Breakpoint Manager – positions offered by Autocar, LLC (Center Point, AL). Understand eng design & specified auto parts, & work w/ both Planning & Purchasing on best time operationally & financially to change suppliers, parts, or both.

Submit resume to legalcompliance@ gvwgroup.com.

AUTOMATION L2 SPECIALIST Danieli Taranis LLC (Chelsea, AL) to be rspns. for dvlpng, cmmsng, prvdng rmte

spprt, & trnng rel to L2 autmtn sys; prfrmng startup & cmnng of dedicatd mchnes/ aggrgte accrdng to rel tchncl dcmnttn; prfrmng intrnl tstng of apps; drwng up & prprng oprtr mnuals; prfrmng hrdwre instlltn, elctrcl & ntwrk cnnctns, & autmtn intrcnnctns chckup; instllng & cnfgrng sys sftwre & dbas; intgrtng a combo of prgrmng mdles dvlpd w/ mxd lang envrnmnts; prfrmng Lvl2 srvr bckgrnd srvcs & Lvl2 clnts (OWS/PWS/TWS) apps instlltn; & prfrmng Lvl2 autmtn sys cold & hot tst. Master in Eng, CompSci or rel w/ 3 yrs of prior wrk exp in pos off or rel w/ DCACom PLC driver; DCADispatcher mssge brokr; Delphi prgrmng lbrry; DACI frnt-end WPF C# prgrmng lbrry; & DASI C# prgrmng lbrry. Mst knw (thru acdmc trnng or wrk exp) Orcle, SQLite & MS Access dba mngmnt sys; Telerik UI for WPF; & SAP Crystal Rprts & Rprt Viewer rprtng pltfrms.

Resumes to c.hegarty@ danieli.com Multiple Full-time positions for Personal Care Aides in BIRMINGHAM, AL is immediately available.

Provide personalized assistance to individuals with disabilities or illness who require help

with personal care and activities of daily living support (e.g., feeding, bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, and ambulation). May also provide help with tasks such as preparing meals, doing light housekeeping, and doing laundry. No Minimum Requirement.Send Resume to: Dan Pahos, Owner, Home Instead, 2059 Columbiana Rd., Birmingham AL 35216 Now Hiring! Termite Treaters and Inspectors Work with a great local company, in business for over 50 years. BC/ BS insurance, 401k, opportunities available.

No experience required Must have a good driving record and be able to pass drug screen. Email to facsmith@charter.net or call 205-369-6250 Vulcan Termite and Pest Control Wanted Maintenance/ Handyman to assist with vehicle and land upkeep. Must pass background & drug test, have reliable transportation, be able to drive a manual transmission and be willing to work.

Apply in person at 115 Commerce Drive Pelham, AL 35124 Vulcan Termite and Pest Control

HomewoodLife.com 95

MY HOMEWOOD

BRANDON BROADHEAD Chief of Homewood Fire Department

Making Memories

Baptist Health Brookwood Hospital Each of my daughters were born at Brookwood, and HFD was there for every one of them.

Having my fire department family be present for these moments made Homewood truly feel like home. Crews from HFD even visited my family in the hospital for each birth, reinforcing the strong bond we share as a department.

Service above Self

Fellowship in Community

Serving as Homewood’s Fire Chief I’m privileged to be present for many of our citizens’ best and worst days, and I take pride in playing a small part in making those days better.

Accepting the Call

Homewood Fire Department My passion for firefighting began when I was 14. I joined the Fire Explorers, a Boy Scouts of America program in Montevallo, which allowed me to train and respond to calls. I quickly fell in love with the career. Immediately after graduating high school, I attended EMT Basic class and began working for a local ambulance company. This company stationed me in Homewood, where I responded alongside HFD members. Through this, I learned a lot about the community and the department and knew I wanted to be a part of it.

Out & About

Taste of Homewood We always attend Taste of Homewood. Our favorite pastime is conversing with people in the community, and these events provide the perfect setting.

96 Summer 2025

The April 2011 Tornadoes As Fire Chief, I’m extremely proud when our firefighters go above and beyond for our citizens. One moment that stands out was HFD’s response to the April 2011 tornadoes. Seeing the destruction and being part of the immediate response team reinforced my pride in HFD’s disaster preparedness training.

Moments like these remind me that this is not just a job—it’s a calling.

HomewoodLife.com 97

98 Summer 2025