A guide to some of the best local eateries around town.
The Red Barn was born out of hope and continues to foster it through equine-assisted programs.
When the lingering summer heat leaves one longing for crisp air and crunching leaves, Lexington, Ky., offers the perfect autumn getaway.
Michaela Bankston
Dave Domescik
Anna Grace Moore
Tyler Raley
Andrew Simonson
Noah Wortham
CONTRIBUTORS
Hanna Allen
Lacey Barnwell
Kim Bass
Tracy Riggs Frontz
Travis Frontz
Amanda E.H. Pritchard
Blair Ramsey
RGR Media
Kate Seaver
Katelyn Smith
Sydney Allen
Jamie Dawkins
Rowan Futrell
Connor Martin-Lively
Noah Brakefield
Evann Campbell
Octavia Campbell
Rachel Henderson
Rhett McCreight
Viridiana Romero
Tori Smith
ADMINISTRATION
Anna Marie Cleckler
Mary Jo Eskridge
Alec Etheredge
Stacey Meadows
Lauren Morris
Kayla Reeves
Leslie Reeves
Brittany Schofield
Lacey is the owner and photographer at LB Studios in Leeds, Ala. She is a wife and homeschooling mom of six children. Lacey has been doing photography since 2010 with an emphasis on wedding, portrait, newborn and family photography. She loves being involved in her community and offering her gifts and talents to those around her. Her clients often become some of her closest friends. To inquire about a booking, email contact@lbstudiosphotography.com; call or text 205-215-4385, or visit lbstudiosphotography.com.
Tracy and Travis are award-winning photographers with more than 75 years of combined experience, taking hundreds of thousands of images–with hundreds published–during that time. Though their business, Novel Photos, includes many types of photography, their focus is events, and they especially love shooting sports and performing arts. Tracy is also a published writer and is passionate about advocacy for invisible illnesses. They are learning sign language with the goal of becoming professional interpreters in the future. Go to NovelPhotos.com to learn more.
Amanda is Southern with a twist! Her zest for life comes through in her conversational style of writing and photography. From her days reporting for hyper-local newspapers, to writing for regional magazines and national radio networks as well as creating social media content, Amanda’s happiest crafting clever quips and capturing those just-right moments. She enjoys conveying stories because everyone’s got a tale to tell. Over the past 20 years, Amanda has photographed presidential hopefuls, a former assistant district attorney trying his hand as an extra on the hit show “Nashville” and helped business owners feature their finest products.
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.
Leeds Living Magazine is published quarterly by Shelby County Newspapers Inc., P.O. Box 947, Columbiana, AL 35051. Leeds Living Magazine is a registered trademark. All contents herein are the sole property of Shelby County Newspapers 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, Leeds Living Magazine, P.O. Box 947, Columbiana, AL 35051.
Leeds Living Magazine is mailed to select households throughout Leeds, and a limited number of free copies are available at local businesses. Please visit LeedsLivingMagazine.com for a list of those locations. Subscriptions are available at a rate of $14.95 plus tax for one year by visiting LeedsLivingMagazine.com or calling (205) 669-3131, ext. 532.
Advertising inquiries may be made by emailing advertise@shelbycountyreporter.com, or by calling (205) 669-3131, ext. 536.
Later this month, Leeds native Emma Terry will travel to Orlando to represent Alabama at the Miss America Opportunity.
BBeing from Southeast Texas, I know the idea of cooler, fall temperatures is certainly relative. Our leaves didn’t turn pretty colors, but they would turn brown and fall off. Still, it will be a bit before they change at all.
The one thing that did consistently coincide with the start of fall was football season. Four days a week, the sport graced our televisions, but for one night, our small town gathered at our own Tiger Stadium (no relation to the one you’re thinking of) to cheer our team to victory.
Of course, football games aren’t the only time we can all come together to support another.
This month, not just Leeds, but the entire state, will be pulling for Leeds native Emma Terry (page 21) as she represents Alabama to compete for the title of Miss America.
Sometimes it isn’t a desired victory that brings us together but common belief in a cause, such as The Red Barn (page 47), whose mission is to use equine-assisted therapy to help children and veterans with disabilities and special circumstances.
Coming together isn’t always a grand occasion involving the masses. Whether its concession-stand nachos or the entire spread at a church potluck, food is almost always involved when people, whether two or 200, share time. Whether you’re looking to share a sourdough pizza for dinner or pick up Danishes to go with coffee, Five Loaves Micro Bakery (page 29) offers baked goods made with clean ingredients.
For Warren Amos and Mandi Rae Trott, it wasn’t food, but music that brought them together. Their love of writing, performing and listening to music has been a common bond in their relationship and led to the formation of their band, Love Rat (page 13).
Whatever it is for you, this fall, I urge you to focus on what brings us together. Even though you likely know someone you won’t agree with on Saturday, we all pull for the same team on Friday night.
Roll Greenwave!
michaela@leedslivingmagazine.com
“THE QUESTION
”
On Fridays, you’ll get a “roll” from me. Roll Greenwave forever!
But on Saturday? No rolls here. Strictly WAR EAGLE
-Cadey Parsons
Leeds and the University of Notre Dame
-Jessica Fuller Dixon
ROLL TIDE!!!!
UA alumni!!!!
-Jennifer Pickle
Leeds and Auburn, War Eagle
-Constance Moore
Leeds and Conner Nelson at Southeastern Louisiana University Athletics!!!
-Ross Nelson
Saturday - Alabama
Sunday - Kansas City Chiefs
-Shay Isbell
Navy -Terry Isbell
Leeds, my Alma Mater JSU and Alabama!
-Mary Lisa Deaton Everling
Tag us in your Leeds photos on Instagram, and we’ll pick our favorites to regram and publish on this page in each issue.
The Episcopal Church of the Epiphany prayer garden is the perfect place to take a few minutes for yourself. Pictures just do not do it justice. Check out this hidden gem for yourself!
@theredbarnal
We got our copy! Thank you to those who voted, and thank you to Leeds Living for a fun contest helping us get to know all that Leeds has to offer.
@koplon_dentistry
This April marks 35 years of Dr. Koplon working at our Leeds office! He joined Dr. Fendley after practicing in other areas of Bham and made Leeds his professional home for good. To know him is to know how passionate he is about treating patients, how this job has become his life’s work, and the relationships made make his world go round! He’s always doing continuing education, and investing in technology and procedures to ensure our patients have the highest level access to quality, state-of-the-art dentistry at the most affordable price. Cheers to Dr. SK and if he had it his way, to another 35 with us!
DOWNTOWN TRICK OR TREAT
OCT. 31
3-5 P.M.
Downtown Leeds
The Leeds Area Chamber of Commerce invites children of all ages to come out for a safe trick-or-treating experience in Downtown Leeds. Various businesses will be set up with tons of candy, and of course, costumes are encouraged. For more information, visit leedsareachamber.com.
SEPT. 26 & OCT. 24
5-8 P.M.
Downtown Leeds
Motors on Main continues this fall with its last two events of the season. Sept. 26 will benefit the Leeds Education Foundation and Oct. 24 proceeds will go to The Red Barn. In addition to the car show, enjoy live music, food trucks and exclusive sales from businesses staying open. For more information or to donate, visit motorsonmain.com.
Volleyball season continues this month with many matches before wrapping up the regular season in October. To stay up to date, follow the team on Instagram (@lhsgreenwavevolleyball), and see their full schedule below.
SEPT. 2: vs. Tuscaloosa County
SEPT. 6: Corner Varsity Tournament
SEPT. 9: vs. Shades Valley
SEPT. 11: vs. Moody
SEPT. 13: Corner Junior Varsity Tournament
SEPT. 16: Tri-match at Springville
SEPT. 18: Tri-match at Cornerstone
SEPT. 22: Tri-match at Lincoln
SEPT. 23: at Ramsay
SEPT. 25: vs. George W. Carver
SEPT. 27: Barry Walker Invitational Tournament (Varsity)
SEPT. 27: Gold Rush Tournament (Junior Varsity)
SEPT. 29: Tri-match at Curry
SEPT. 30: vs. McAdory
OCT. 2: at Moody
OCT. 7: Tri-match at Pinson Valley
OCT. 8: Tri-match at McAdory
OCT. 9: at Chelsea
SEPT. 4
Ladies’ Bunko Night Cedar Grove Baptist Church
SEPT. 5-7
SRO Motorsports America Barber Motorsports Park
SEPT. 7
Artist of the Month Reception: Trussville Photographers Club Leeds Arts Council
SEPT. 12
Homecoming Parade
Downtown Leeds
SEPT. 13
Customer Appreciation Tailgate Grand River Pickers
SEPT. 13
Magic City Octane The Shops of Grand River
SEPT. 26
Jigsaw Puzzle Club Grand River Pickers
SEPT. 27
Safari Zoo Run for Children’s Barber Motorsports Park
SEPT. 27
Fall Harvest Festival Howard Family Holiday Farm
OCT. 2
Ladies’ Bunko Night Cedar Grove Baptist Church
OCT. 2-5 & 9-12 “Little Shop of Horrors” Performances Leeds Arts Council
OCT. 3
Atrox Opening Night Atrox Factory
OCT. 3-5
20th Annual Barber Vintage Festival Barber Motorsports Park
OCT. 5
Artist of the Month Reception:
Debbie Simmons
Leeds Arts Council
OCT. 7
National Night Out
Leeds Memorial Park
OCT. 11
Leeds Invitational-Leeds High School Cross Country
Leeds Memorial Park
OCT. 11
Magic City Octane
The Shops of Grand River
OCT. 12
Grand Riverfest
The Shops of Grand River
OCT. 23
Chamber Member Appreciation Cookout
First Baptist Church
OCT. 24-26
“Elf Jr.” Performances
Leeds Arts Council
OCT. 25
Monster Mash Dash
The Shops of Grand River
OCT. 26
Trunk R Treat
First Baptist Church
OCT. 27-28
Christmas Extravaganza Auditions
Leeds Arts Council
OCT. 31
Jigsaw Puzzle Club
Grand River Pickers
NOV. 2
Artist of the Month Reception:
Moody High School Art Class
Leeds Arts Council
NOV. 6
Ladies’ Bunko Night
Cedar Grove Baptist Church
SEPTEMBER & OCTOBER
Football season is in full swing! This month homecoming and senior night will happen. The remainder of the regular season will take place next month, including the last home game—The Battle of the Bridge. To stay up to date, follow the team on Instagram (@leedsftbl) and X (@LeedsFTBL), and see their full schedule below.
SEPT. 5: vs. Springville
SEPT. 12: vs. Lincoln (Homecoming)
SEPT. 19: at Jacksonville
SEPT. 26: vs. Briarwood (Senior Night)
The application to be featured in the 2026 Wedding Edition of Leeds Living is live. You qualify if you married on or after Oct. 1, 2024 and live in, are from or got married in Leeds. Find the application in our featured posts on Facebook (Leeds Living) or in our Instagram (@leeds.living) bio.
OCT. 3: at St. Clair County
OCT. 10: vs. Moody
OCT. 17: at Center Point
OCT. 24: at Pelham
Share your news and events! Email submissions to Michaela@LeedsLivingMagazine.com to be considered for our next
For the first time, the Greenwave Flag Football team is hosting a 6-team tournament on Sept 13. Anniston, Huffman, JB Pennington, Ramsey and Talladega will make their way to Homer Smiles Field. Food trucks will be onsite. Day passes that cost $10 and allow you to watch any game will be available on GoFan.co and at the gate. To stay up to date, follow the team on Instagram (@leedsflagfootball), and see their full schedule below.
SEPT. 2: at Ramsey
SEPT. 9: vs. Gadsden City (Junior Varsity Only)
SEPT. 11: at Anniston
SEPT. 13: Leeds Tournament
SEPT. 16: Tri-match at Fultondale
OCT. 1: vs. Midfield
OCT. 2: vs. Talladega (Senior Night)
OCT. 9: Tri-match at Moody
OCT. 14: at Talladega
OCT. 29: at John Carroll
NOV. 8
Cruise-in for Toys Downtown Leeds
NOV. 8
Magic City Octane The Shops of Grand River
NOV. 10
National Veterans Day Awards Dinner
Sheraton Birmingham Hotel Ballroom
NOV. 11
National Veterans Day Parade Downtown Birmingham
NOV. 20
Downtown Tree Lighting Downtown Gazebo
NOV. 23
Ice Cream with Santa Howard Family Holiday Farm
Warren Amos’s and Mandi Rae Trott’s love of music is the heartbeat of their band, Love Rat.
BY AMANDA E.H. PRITCHARD
MMaking moves on the music scene, local Leeds musicians Mandi Rae Trott and Warren Amos, otherwise known as Love Rat, radiate joy when discussing their love of music, artistry and one another. Officially formed in 2016, the name Love Rat came about after a night of frivolity.
“I wanted a band name with the word love in it, and my bandmates thought love was too squishy,” Trott said. “So, we decided to put an animal with it, and rat seemed to be the dirtiest thing we could think of. Love raccoon doesn’t have quite the same ring.”
“Southern Shaman,” Love Rat’s sophomore album and single by the same name hit air waves in August.
“[The album] is about a guy on a journey tearing himself up and along the way he meets a shaman,” Amos said.
Trott elaborated on what the album means to her.
“‘Southern Shaman’ is about how everyone appropriates the South and denigrates it. Warren started the song, and I finished the chorus. We’re so happy that it just meshed very well,” she said.
Garnering inspiration from life in general and
philosophy, Amos defines the Love Rat sound as psychedelic funk and “an amalgamation of my mom and dad’s record collection,” which ranged from the Beach Boys to the Beatles, Fleetwood Mac and all bands and genres in between. Trott characterized their musical stylings as modern throwback.
Throwing it back to the first time they met, during a gig on Lake Martin, Trott and Amos recalled the first song they wrote together, titled, “Devil.”
“For me, that first song encompasses what we both believe very strongly, which is we are the creators of our own destiny and our own hell,” Trott said. Amos added, “To me, ‘Devil,’ is a way to have an outside source to explain man’s capabilities that we deem dark, evil, mean and stuff like that.”
The pair carefully craft lyrics that create true connection and authenticity for listeners. Trott proudly quoted lyrics from the title track of their debut album, “Howl at the Moon.”
“There ain’t no use in avoiding the change. Move it on up to higher ground, and pray that you stay sane.”
Distinct lyrics detailing a story or some kind of fantasy with metaphorical political undertones and a dash of real-world happenings is what Amos said
Oct. 3: Party on the Porch, Alabama Outdoors in Homewood, Alabama
Oct. 10: Back Forty in Gadsden, where Love Rat performs monthly at each Second Friday event
Oct. 18: With The Alabama Heathens, The Nick
Nov. 14: With Suburban Love Junkies, Iron City
To listen to Love Rat now, scan one of the QR codes below to visit their pages on Apple Music or Spotify.
differentiates Love Rat from other bands. He also referenced their ability to not be beholden to a particular sound or genre.
“We have a lot of connections in a grassroots way,” he said. “People want to connect with you—the person.”
Both began making connection to music at early ages.
Amos’ mom started driving him to gigs all over Birmingham when he was 15.
“Driving to those early gigs, my mom sang harmony to everything,” he said. “Music was just in my culture.”
Trott immersed herself in the rich culture of living in New Orleans as a young girl, but her love of music began with the strum of the
guitar chord A. Thanks to her grandfather, she became a musician.
“I was 13 years old and visiting Papa when he said to me, ‘Get in the car. You’re going to learn guitar today.”
They started learning music young, but their love of music began even earlier.
Amos owes his early musical discoveries to Santa, who left cassette singles of Def Leppard and Tom Petty in his stocking, while Trott will never forget her dad buying her a No Doubt CD he thought she’d like.
While Amos loves to infuse his fondness for the Grateful Dead’s “Skeletons in the Closet” and Metallica’s “Ride the Lighting” into the Love Rat sound, Trott said she would
love to sit down and write a song with one of her musical heroes—John Fogerty, front man for Creedence Clearwater Revival. Both agree they would love to collaborate with fellow free spirit, Aaron Lee Tasjan, who they recently saw in concert.
Their love of live music was established years ago when they embarked on their musical discovery journeys attending their first concerts. For Amos, it was a Lynyrd Skynyrd show in 1995 with his parents. Later on, he attended City Stages, a former music festival in Birmingham, and saw Collective Soul, his first concert without his parents
“I was a military brat,” said Trott. “I saw Alabama in California and when I was 16, I saw my first concert by myself. I waited in line in the rain to see Third Eye Blind.”
Not only do they enjoy hearing live music, but they also love taking the stage themselves. They are particularly fans of venues that are good to them, such as local watering holes Rails & Ales, Van’s and The Central Club in Leeds, The Nick in downtown Birmingham, Busted Oak Bourbon Society in Albertville and Valentine Texas Bar in Valentine, Texas.
FEATURED ARTIST: Inés Orihuela
As for the momentum propelling Love Rat onto airwaves and in nearby venues, Amos called it blissful chaos while Trott summoned her inner Penny Lane as portrayed by Kate Hudson in the movie “Almost Famous,” when she said, “It’s all happening.”
Amos and Trott sometimes perform as the Love Rat duo, while at other times have the full-fledged band, consisting of Jonathan Breland on bass, Derek Nolin tickling the ivories, Brant Benefield on drums and Matthew Monk on harmonica.
“
” At a Love Rat show, a song will never be the same. Variety is the spice of life. We want our shows to be an immersive experience. Our audience is not just sitting there; they are a part of the Love Rat show!
-Mandi Rae Trott
Regardless of the number of people performing, once they storm the stage, expect humor and theatrics to ensue.
“At a Love Rat show, a song will never be the same. Variety is the spice of life,” Amos exclaimed while Trott added, “We want our shows to be an immersive experience. Our audience is not just sitting there; they are a part of the Love Rat show!”
After developing the Love Rat sound for almost a decade, Amos still identifies with that young man who was rocking out to Def Leppard and falling in love with the musical brilliance of Tom Petty. Trott looks back fondly on their humble beginnings remembering one of her and his initial connections, right out of the gate–their love of music!
Summing up what music means to them, Amos said, “Music is nothing if it’s not shared with people you love.” While Trott exclaimed, “Music is everything! My whole life revolves around it. Music is the heartbeat of humanity.”
For more information and to keep up with Love Rat, visit loveratmusic.com, and find them on Facebook (Love Rat), Instagram (@loveratmusic) and X (@mandiraemusic). Log onto bandcamp.com to buy “Howl at the Moon” or “Southern Shaman” directly.
The Leeds Depot and Rowan Oaks are available for event rental. For details, availability, and to reserve either venue please contact LHS at 205-571-1812 or visit our website, LeedsHistoricalSociety.org. Preserving the Cornerstones of our Past Are
Recommendations from Leeds Jane Culbreth Library Staff
Fall is the season to embrace one’s inner chef. From game day grilling to spooky snacks and holiday treats, it’s a time for a lot of cooking and eating! If someone wants to learn how to cook something new, improve their existing recipes or simply look at the gorgeous illustrations of wellmade dishes, the library is an ideal place to start. Here, the staff highlights some of their favorite food-related reads. READ THIS BOOK
By Rose Levy Beranbaum | Cookbook
“The Cookie Bible” by Rose Levy Beranbaum, widely-acclaimed baker and cookbook author, is another in her series of meticulously-tested and beautifully-photographed baking books. As the name suggests, this cookbook is full of more than 100 cookie recipes. They are broken down by shaping technique, and it does not stop there. Beranbaum also includes several meringues and candies and what she calls “extra specials,” such as candied citrus peels and dulce de leche. Beranbaum is a well-known name in the space for good reason. She gives precise and easy-to-follow instructions while allowing for modifications, making this book great for beginners and seasoned bakers.
By America’s Test Kitchen | Cookbook
For a great primer on grilling, check out “The Outdoor Cook” by America’s Test Kitchen. In addition to the prominent coverage of grilled meats, the book covers a wide range of dishes to cook outside, including vegetarian options, pizza and desserts. Known well for their rigorous testing regime and step-by-step instructions, their recipes are far more easily replicable than many other cookbook authors.
By Sohla El-Waylly | Cookbook
“Start Here” by Bon Appétit alum Sohla El-Waylly is for anyone looking to improve their cooking skills, whether they have none or have been cooking for years. There is no surprise in the number of excellent recipes and lavish pictures of food, but the book is unusually long. That is because it is also filled with indepth explanations on the techniques and science that make the execution of these recipes possible.
By Emily Meggett | Cookbook
While the other books in this review feature a wide variety of recipes from all kinds of cuisines, sometimes doing a deep dive into a regional cuisine can be far more rewarding. “Gullah Geechee Home Cooking” by Emily Meggett is an exploration of not only the cooking styles of a relatively isolated and unique culture, but of the ways that food connects to their history. Regardless of one’s interest in that history or of this particular place, the book serves as a great introduction to Southern cooking.
By Joanne Fluke | Mystery
Not everyone is interested in learning how to cook or cook better, and that is OK. Even for those who are, some days it is refreshing to skip getting dishes dirty and settle down with a microwave meal or some takeout. For those nights, pick up the latest in a long-running series of baking-themed mysteries, “Pink Lemonade Cake Murder” by Joanne Fluke. This cozy mystery is perfectly pleasant to read and easily digestible. The author does include recipes, which can be saved for a time when cooking sounds more appealing. Besides, no one has to know if someone decides to skip those parts altogether.
Miss Alabama Emma Terry began her journey in Leeds and will continue it on to the Miss America Stage.
BY KATELYN SMITH
AA hush fell over the crowd and many girls stood on the stage before them. Dressed in extravagant gowns and heels, they held each other’s hands with anxious anticipation. Emma Terry was among them, heart pounding as they announced who won the title of Miss Alabama 2025.
When her name was read, it practically rang around the venue, and she struggled to believe it. Years of work and preparation had finally led her to this incredible and liberating moment.
When they placed the crown on her head and put a large bouquet of red roses in her hands, Terry suddenly felt like she was a 14-year-old girl again, watching Miss America on television and dreaming about representing Alabama on that stage.
For Terry, that will soon become her reality.
Now 22 years old, the Leeds native has been competing in pageants since she was 14, with her goal being to become Miss Alabama. On June 28, 2025, at the Wright Center at Samford University, all her hard work paid off as she was crowned Miss Alabama
2025.
She had spent months preparing for each aspect of the competition: the private interview, fitness modeling, talent, evening wear and the on-stage question. For her talent, she chose to showcase ballet en pointe, so she worked on a dance routine to “What a Feeling” by Irene Cara from the film “Flashdance.”
“The competition is so well-rounded,” Terry said. “You have to be able to speak and think on your feet, but then you also have to be able to carry yourself with elegance and poise in an evening walk or a fitness walk.”
She first joined the Miss America Opportunity eight years ago to pursue scholarship and personal growth opportunities, while also chasing her dream. Throughout her time and work with the program, she developed skills such as public speaking and gained increased confidence.
She is incredibly thankful for how the program has impacted her life and helped her reach her current position.
“That’s truly the beauty of it,” Terry said about the Miss America Opportunity. “That we are empowering women and also preparing women not just to compete in a current pageant, but for life, because the life skills and the confidence and just the overall sense of empowerment that I’ve gained has really changed my life.”
Although originally from Leeds, she has held other areas’ titles, including Miss Cahaba Valley’s Teen, Miss Jefferson County, Miss Covered Bridge’s Teen, Miss Alabama’s Teen and Miss Hoover, which she
represented in the Miss Alabama competition this year. While attending the University of Alabama at Birmingham and earning her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in accounting, she was also crowned Miss UAB.
Despite representing the city of Hoover in the competition, she always finds her way back home.
“I’m very proud to be from Leeds,” Terry said. “[I’m] just really honored to have this opportunity over the upcoming year to represent the city of Hoover, represent my hometown and just represent
the entire state of Alabama.”
Terry’s family has had a long history with Leeds, as both her grandmother and mother attended Leeds High School before she did.
Leeds High School provided Terry with a strong support system composed of teachers and educators who shaped her as she grew. She is just as proud of graduating from Leeds as the teachers and educators are of her, and the town itself shares the same pride.
Just a week after she had been crowned, Terry attended a Leeds City Council meeting, only expecting a little recognition for her win. Not only did they recognize her hard work with the Miss America Opportunity, but they also named July 7 “Emma Terry Day” in her honor.
She is very thankful for the overwhelming support from her beloved city, but what does she cherish most about Leeds? The community’s closeness and personability.
“It’s an everybody-knows-everybody type of atmosphere,” Terry described. “You can go to a local downtown shop like mum & me, or you can go to the grocery store, or you can just be on an afternoon stroll, and you will probably run into somebody that you know, and that is just one of my favorite things about the atmosphere of my hometown of Leeds.”
One of the most significant aspects of growing up in Leeds was her time with her grandfather, or Grandy, as she calls him.
Stewart Simpson had developed ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, around the same time Terry was born. She had never known a time when he was not sick, and because it took his voice first, she never heard him speak.
She grew up taking care of her grandfather, and it was a struggle for the entire family as they watched his body deteriorate from the disease until he passed away in 2024.
Although she and her family felt utterly alone, they soon discovered a community that was struggling with the same situation. Seeing the universal effect of ALS, she decided to start her own organization to raise funds and awareness for ALS to honor her grandfather’s memory.
She called it Stomping Out ALS One Step at a Time.
“The whole idea behind my organization is that the smallest steps can make the biggest differences,” Terry explained. “You never know how one donation or how one event can support a family or change somebody’s life. So, the idea is that we can all come together to create huge, collective change for the ALS community.”
The Miss America competition lasts for an entire week, Sept. 1-7, with the finals taking place on Sept. 7. The event will take place in the Walt Disney Theater at the Dr. Phillips Center for Performing Arts in Orlando, Florida. To watch Emma Terry as she represents Alabama and competes for Miss America, visit pageantvision.com.
The organization hosts various events to raise awareness for its cause, including a car show and a race named after her grandfather: Stewart’s Race. She has also partnered with other ALS organizations, such as the ALS Association, to support their Walk to Defeat ALS event.
Grateful for all the excellent opportunities the program has provided her and still celebrating her Miss Alabama win, Terry now looks ahead to the future. She will soon take the stage to compete for Miss America alongside 51 other incredible young women, and she is more excited than ever.
“I used to watch Miss America when I was a little girl,” Terry recalled. “Sometimes it would even fall on my birthday, and I just thought, ‘Wow, those women are amazing,’ and I always wanted to be one of them. I always wanted to be somebody that got to be on Miss America’s stage, and now that dream is coming true as well. I’m just so excited, and my goal is to represent my state and hometown with pride.”
She firmly believes that the program is beneficial and important for young girls seeking opportunities, and she encourages others to join in making a positive impact on women worldwide.
Competing in pageants is not the only way to show support. People are also welcome to donate
and volunteer to make a difference in someone’s life.
Terry is also deeply grateful to her incredible volunteers and directors, who have helped her throughout her entire journey.
Besides spending the next year as Miss Alabama and competing for Miss America, she also aims to attend law school and eventually, become an attorney, specializing in public finance.
For now, Terry prepares for the Miss America competition and focuses on spreading kindness wherever she goes as Miss Alabama.
“Part of my mission as Miss Alabama is just to be kind to everybody and show everybody that Miss Alabama can be a possibility for them, or if not Miss Alabama, whatever their goals and journeys are,” she said with pride.
Behind the crown, Terry is a small-town girl with a bright personality looking to improve the world one step at a time. Her dream-come-true moment was just the beginning.
Emma Terry’s website is stompingoutalsonestepatatime.com, and her official Miss Alabama Instagram is @missamericaal. To book Miss Alabama for an event, visit missalabama.com/meet-miss-alabama.
5 FIVE QUESTIONS FOR
PHOTO BY DAWN HARRISON
Gavin Howard has lived in Leeds his entire life and has attended Leeds City Schools since kindergarten. His dad and all four of his grandparents graduated from Leeds. He started playing baseball for the City of Leeds when he was 4 years old and football in 6th grade. Since seventh grade, he has played both for Leeds City Schools.
What has your experience as part of the Leeds High School football team been like?
I have loved playing football for Leeds, and being a part of this team is something I will never forget. We have made so many memories over the years, and they are like family to me. I’m going to enjoy this last year because I can’t even imagine not being on this team next year.
What is your favorite football memory?
There are so many memories, but a couple of my favorite ones happened last
season. The St. Clair game last year was a really close game, and I blocked a punt and ran it back for a touchdown. Also, during the playoffs we played Fairview, and I got an interception to seal the game.
Who is your all-time favorite coach and why?
I really don’t have an all-time favorite coach. All of the coaches are so great, and I have learned so much from each of them over the years. Leeds is so fortunate to have these great coaches that have stayed at Leeds for many years. They have not just made me a better player, but a better
person, and they have prepared each of us for life after football and high school.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
To always give my all at everything I do, even the little things, and to make the best of every opportunity I am given.
What are your future goals?
I do plan to attend college, but at this time I am undecided on schools and my future career. I would love the opportunity to continue playing football at the next level.
Five Loaves Micro Bakery is built on clean ingredients, community ties and one woman’s leap of faith.
BY HANNA ALLEN
IIn a quiet neighborhood in Leeds, a backyard bread shed has become a community anchor. Lauren Brown, the woman behind it all, bakes hundreds of loaves each week for families across the Birmingham area and to supply restaurants and shops, such as Corbeau Wine Bar, Cowboys 280 and Howard Family Holiday Farm with fresh sourdough.
“I just want people to realize that they can have clean ingredients,” Brown said. “Instead of storebought bread, they can have something nourishing and local.”
Though she has seen a good deal of success recently, she did not grow up baking.
“Before I started sourdough, I could not bake for my life,” she said. “I remember trying to make
cookies, and they would just go flat every time. I thought, ‘What am I doing?’”
Her journey into baking began while she was a nurse in the intensive care unit. One day, a coworker brought in potato flake sourdough. Brown, who had long been passionate about nutrition and clean eating, was intrigued.
“I was like, ‘I really don’t want to use yeast. I want to do it the cleanest way possible,’” she said. “So I thought, ‘I’ll learn real sourdough.’”
It took months. Lauren started building her starter on Dec. 24, 2023, and it wasn’t ready until late March. In the meantime, she experimented with a dehydrated starter, learned techniques, tracked temperature and hydration and fed her coworkers.
“
“I think one morning I woke up at 2 and made 189 waffles,” she said.
From there, it grew fast. Brown began baking more frequently, shifting between night shifts and early morning dough.
“I just really wanted to focus on clean ingredients, and I realized people liked what I was making,” she said.
Today, Brown bakes 100 to 200 loaves daily in her home kitchen. Her porch pickups and online ordering system allow her to scale locally without the burden of a storefront.
“People just go online and choose if they want to pick up in Leeds, Trussville or Mount Laurel,” she said. “We offer porch pickups on Thursday, Friday or Saturday, or delivery.”
” I just want people to realize that they can have clean ingredients. Instead of store-bought bread, they can have something nourishing and local.
- Lauren Brown
The bread shed—a tidy wooden structure built after her first pickup stand was destroyed in a storm—is where most pickups happen.
To have the delights ready, Brown’s days start early.
“It takes about two hours for the ovens to heat
up, so I’m up by 2 a.m.,” she said. “If I’m not too tired, I’ll print my labels or premeasure all my flour. It’s a whole baker’s math thing. I keep everything at the right temperature. My background is in chemistry, so I’m pretty particular.”
That chemistry background blends perfectly with her nutrition-minded baking approach. Her sourdough includes only organic flour, filtered water and sea salt. Her pastries are made with local A2A2 raw milk, European butter and farm-fresh eggs, and her waffles and pizza dough are fortified with grass-fed, non-GMO bone broth powder.
“Parents love them for their kiddos,” she said. “They’re high-protein and nutrient-dense, and you can freeze them for six months.”
Brown grew up in Gainesville, Florida and studied business economics and finance. While in school, she also became a certified personal trainer and nutritionist. After 15 years working in the aesthetics and plastic surgery industry, she earned a second bachelor’s degree in nursing.
After marrying and relocating several times, Brown and her husband moved to Birmingham in 2021. During the pandemic, she worked in neuro ICU and critical care, later transitioning to hospice and surgical nursing.
Sourdough Bread PESTO MOZZARELLA pairs deliciously with a simple marinara sauce for dipping
for breakfast or with homemade chicken salad
Slow-fermented
Sourdough Pizza PESTO MOZZARELLA AND GARLIC PARMESAN
She still works as a nurse as needed, but baking is now her full-time job.
“This is my thing,” she said. “I’ll teach it all day long, but the bread, I don’t let anyone else do that.”
Brown started selling at local farmers markets— Leeds, Mount Laurel and Trussville—and the business took off from there. She now handles direct-to-consumer sales, wholesale accounts, porch pickups, deliveries and private collaborations.
“For markets, I bake about 500 loaves a week, plus 1,000 pastries and I don’t even know how many croissants,” she said.
She also teaches sourdough classes from home and is working on a digital recipe book.
“I just thought, ‘Why not show people how to make it themselves?’” she said. “You can do anything with sourdough—donuts, brownies, cakes, bagels, even pizza.”
A fellow sourdough baker in Utah became her mentor during the early stages.
“Casey helped me so much. He really took me under his wing when I got my first commercial oven and mixer,” she said. “The technique is totally different from hand mixing, and he helped me get better.”
Brown is always creating. Her fall pumpkin loaf— made with organic pumpkin purée, coconut oil and cookie butter—has been a bestseller.
“People still talk about them,” she said. “I also made cake jars with crumble and vanilla topping. They were so good.”
Her cinnamon stars, twisted from croissant dough, are another fan favorite.
“I can’t roll a cinnamon roll to save my life, so I twist them and braid them,” she said. “People love them.”
She also sells mini sourdough donuts, brioche buns, high-protein pizza dough and savory loaves like honey oats.
“I’ve played with hydration and soaking grains to make a naturally sweetened honey oat loaf without adding sugar,” she said. “It’s really fun to figure it out.”
As demand rises, Brown remains cautious about how she grows.
“I’m working with a business manager now to figure out how to scale without compromising quality,” she said. “I’d rather go slower and do it right.”
The name Five Loaves comes from the Bible— specifically, the story of five loaves and two fish feeding the multitude.
“We have here only five loaves of bread and two fish,” they answered.” Bring them here to Me,” He said. And He directed the people to sit down on the grass. Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, He gave thanks and broke the loaves. Then He gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the people. They all ate and were satisfied, and the disciples picked up twelve basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over.
“We were all sitting around at work trying to think of names,” Brown said. “I wanted something religious-based, not in your face, but close to my heart. It’s about small offerings making a big impact.”
Faith plays a quiet but central role in running her business.
“I don’t go to church here, but I still watch online services back in Knoxville,” she said. “This name reminds me why I’m doing this.”
It’s working. Many customers have followed her since day one. Some message her weekly, and others stop by just to say hello.
“I built the bread shed, so I wouldn’t have to come out, but I always want to see everyone,” she said. “That’s the fun part.”
She often adds extras—cookies, croissants or a bonus loaf—just because.
“It makes people happy, and that makes me happy,” she said.
Some encourage her to open a storefront, but she prefers flexibility.
“I don’t want to be stuck somewhere,” she said. “I’d love to be mobile—go to events, just let people try something real.”
She’s clear about her goals: “I just want people to realize they can have something clean, made by hand. It doesn’t have to come from a store shelf.”
From that quiet corner of Leeds, her dream is already rising.
Five Loaves Micro Bakery is located at 6924 Timber Trail Road in Leeds. It is open WednesdayFriday, noon-6 p.m. To place a delivery order or ask a question, visit fiveloavesmicrobakery.com, or call or text 205-603-7430.
Ferus Artisan Ales Ferus offers a diverse tap list of craft beers alongside a delicious menu designed to satisfy every craving. Whether you’re unwinding after work, gathering with friends, catching live music or planning a private party, the lively taproom and dedicated event space provide the ideal setting. Come for the beer, stay for the unbeatable atmosphere—your unparalleled brewery and eatery experience awaits at Ferus.
Pinchgut Pies Pinchgut Pies is a pizza restaurant located across from Ferus Artisan Ales. It’s a place where creativity meets culinary delight. With a welcoming atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot for families, friends and anyone looking to enjoy a high-quality, customized meal in the heart of the community.
The Three Earred Rabbit The Three Earred Rabbit, located on Main Street in downtown Leeds, is a local favorite known for its delicious sandwiches, fresh salads and homemade desserts. A fan favorite is the classic Reuben—piled high with savory corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, melted Swiss cheese and creamy thousand island dressing on perfectly grilled rye bread. This charming café offers a cozy, welcoming atmosphere with flavorful, freshly made meals that keep guests coming back again and again.
7484 PARKWAY DRIVE • LEEDS RUSTYSBARBQ.COM • 205-699-4766
Bar-B-Q Rusty’s Bar-B-Q in Leeds, is a beloved familyrun gem just off I-20, offering pit-smoked barbecue crafted for hours by experienced pit masters. Their menu features generous servings of ribs, pulled pork, brisket and chicken, each smoky, tender and served with a choice of four sauces. Sides—from collards and spicy baked beans to deviled eggs—shine alongside hand-made pies and refreshing sweet tea. With a warm, unpretentious vibe and standout hospitality, Rusty’s delivers authentic Alabama BBQ in every bite.
LEEDS SUGAMAMABAKERY.COM • 256-503-3341
Suga Mama’s Bakery At Suga Mama’s Bakery, we prioritize creating special memories for families and our community! Our mission is to offer high quality, cost-effective treats that bring people together. From freshly baked cookies to delicious cakes, our custom offerings are crafted with care. We would love to join you in celebrating connections and creating sweet memories, one delightful bite at a time!
150 MORROW AVE. • TRUSSVILLE MRWESTS.COM • 205-508-3644
Mr. West’s Asian Kitchen Mr. West’s Asian Kitchen in Trussville offers a unique blend of Asian-inspired dishes and creative fusion flavors. Their menu features favorites like bao buns, rice bowls and the popular Kobe burger. Guests enjoy the casual and welcoming atmosphere with friendly service. The restaurant serves flavorful starters such as Thai chicken nachos and pork dumplings. Mr. West’s is perfect for those seeking delicious and inventive dining options in a relaxed setting.
2842 MOODY PKWY • MOODY 205-640-1113
Raul’s Mexican Restaurant Raul’s Mexican Restaurant is a hometown favorite for Mexican food done right. From sizzling fajitas to cheesy enchiladas and fresh chips and salsa, everything is made with bold flavors and hearty portions. The laid-back atmosphere and friendly service make it an easy choice for lunch, dinner or a casual night out. With great prices and consistently good food, it’s no surprise Raul’s has become a go-to spot for folks around town.
FIVE QUESTIONS FOR
PHOTO BY LACEY BARNWELL
Patricia Horne is a wife, mom to her beautiful daughter, Kayla, and GiGi to identical twin boys. She has worked at Five Loaves for approximately four months. She started working with Lauren, owner of Five Loaves, because she believes Lauren’s morals and quality of products are exactly what their community needs.
What has been your favorite part of working at Five Loaves Micro Bakery?
My favorite parts are working alongside Lauren, creating delicious sourdough bakes and coming up with new menu items for the upcoming weeks.
What does a typical workday look like for you?
Bakers must be meticulous with measurements and follow recipes carefully to ensure consistent results. We juggle tasks like mixing dough, shaping items, proofing, baking and decorating, often simultaneously, while keeping up with
demand. Frequent cleaning of equipment and work areas is crucial to maintain hygiene. The afternoon is often spent prepping ingredients, making doughs and cleaning up for the following day. Depending on the size and demands of the bakery, the day lasts anywhere from 8-15 hours. Luckily we work as a team, which provides tons of camaraderie and support. Bakery life is busy, but we are family. It’s such an amazing experience.
What’s your best baking tip? Quality Control.
What is your favorite part of your job as bakery manager?
The best part is really the final result… seeing what we actually create! And then bringing it to market. It’s nice realizing how many people love sourdough and knowing they are consuming honest clean ingredients.
What’s the best item on the menu?
It is so hard to choose, but my favorites are the jalapeño cheddar bread and the original baked blueberry Danish.
Brad and Ashley Foster enjoy life surrounded by family on the land she grew up on.
BY MICHAELA BANKSTON
The Fosters originally wanted a modern Tudor-style house until they realized how expensive Tudor roofs are. They ended up with a mix of Tudor, French and modern farmhouse styles.
WWhen Brad and Ashley Foster married they lived in Avondale, but the uptick in time spent at the house in 2020 caused them to think about what they wanted home to look like.
“We were all inside all the time, and we really got to thinking about, I think as everybody did, about your personal space and home and what you want home to be like,” Ashley said.
At the time, their twin sons, Luke and Calvin Foster, were 1, but the couple knew they’d ultimately have to make a decision to move or send the boys to private school.
“I grew up with the family (of Superintendent John Moore), and I’d heard such great things about Leeds City schools, and that was a big seller,” Ashley said.
Furthermore, they thought about the land she
grew up on. Her parents, aunt and uncle and brother and his wife already lived there, and they had so much history even beyond those two generations.
“The land and the connection to family is another reason why we’re here,” Ashley said.
In the late 1820s, Ashley’s great-great-greatgreat-great-grandfather moved to St. Clair County from South Carolina. His son went on to purchase 800 acres, including where the Fosters currently reside, in the late 1800s.
Three generations later Ashley’s great-great grandfather built what she knew as her grandparents house. She said it is now beyond repair, but they were able to salvage a few pieces to incorporate in the building of their house, which can be seen in their outdoor half-bathroom.
“There’s so much about this land and growing up
These wooden slats were salvaged from Ashley’s grandparents’ house that was originally built by her great-great grandfather around 1890. The framed drawing below of that house along with a cross made from nails removed from the slats rests on the counter.
Ashley’s great-greatgreat-great-greatgrandfather moved to St. Clair County.
Her great-greatgrandfather built the original house on the property.
1887
Leeds was incorporated.
1957
Interstate 20 was constructed along with a tunnel to keep both sides of the family land connected.
here, so it’s not just about the house. It’s about what it means,” Ashley said.
The roots run deep for Ashley, but Brad was all for moving to Ashley’s family land in Leeds, which he said is a similar community to where he grew up. The move to family land also allowed them to build the house they wanted, which Ashley called
2014
Brad and Ashley Foster met.
2019
Their sons, Calvin and Luke, were born.
2017
The couple married.
2023
The Fosters moved onto the family land.
Ashley’s niece and her husband plan to move to the family land with their daughter, who will be the 10th generation to reside on the land.
Brad’s brainchild.
“I like having land, and the kids have places to go and ride their bikes and everything else,” Brad said.
As for the kids, they are all on board as well.
“They’ve said before, ‘We love our house; we love living here,’” Ashley said.
The open concept blends the kitchen and living room, which are Ashley’s favorite spots in the house as they love to host people with “food and laughter and music.” Photos of special memories sit on the counter, including Ashley with her grandfather on his 4-wheeler. Before Interstate 20 existed, the State had to ask Ashley’s grandfather for permission as it would split his land. He requested a tunnel, so that his cows could still go back-and-forth. Growing up she thought it was so cool to ride the 4-wheeler under the interstate.
This light fixture, which Ashley had her eye on at Pottery Barn for a while, was her main splurge, and it perfectly accentuates their modern-chic aesthetic.
When they built the house they were set on white walls for a clean look that provided a “blank canvas,” so they could add pops of color anywhere.
The entire family loves sports and are big Alabama fans, which can be seen from their game room decor. Luke and Calvin spend a lot of their time here.
In true twin fashion, the boys have matching beds and personalized chairs. The nameplates hanging above each bed have photos underneath that add a personal touch.
The stormtrooper figurine under the table and “Star Wars”-like pillows are a few of several tokens of Ashley’s affinity for the movies, which is so strong, it was a non-negotiable to name one of her children Luke after Luke Skywalker.
Brad and Ashley had two requests for their master bathroom: a large tub and stained wood fixtures.
All of the furniture in the master bedroom is from Brad’s parents’ furniture store, Fosters Furniture, in Hueytown.
The Fosters like to support local artists when possible and have several pieces from Shannon Harris at The Grace Gallery in Cahaba Heights, including this skyline of Atlanta where Ashley lived for a time after college.
Though their house faces away from the road, the Fosters purposely positioned the house to face the pond, so they could have a nice view from their porch.
By
The Red Barn was born out of hope and continues to foster it through equineassisted programs.
OOnly five miles beyond the thunderous hum that originates at Barber Motorsports Park is a place of peace, serenity and life changes. The Red Barn, named after the barn on the property when first purchased, helps children and adults through equine-assisted services.
Executive Director Shannon Horsley identifies with The Red Barn’s participants, many of whom have difficulty fitting in due to their disabilities or trauma. Though Horsley doesn’t struggle with those specific issues, she understands feeling left out.
“You know how some kids are really into baseball or cheerleading or math club, and it’s their identity? I didn’t have anything and really felt that absence very deeply,” she said. “Now I get to make sure that the kids who come to the barn, that they do have that place. They do have that thing that connects them with others. It gives them an activity that they care about, that they love, something that they want to get better at and a place to go to camp during the summer—just a place to really be themselves and be completely accepted and not judged.”
Horsley didn’t grow up with horses. Her desire to help others led her to major in criminal justice in college, but during her master’s-level program, she fell in love with nonprofits while interning at a shelter for homeless women and children. There she met Joy O’Neal, founder of The Red Barn.
O’Neal found inspiration in her friend, Anita Cowart, who saw an opportunity for something good to come out of a tragedy.
In the 1960s, Cowart’s teenage daughter, Love Cowart, was killed in a car accident. She was devastated, and one day she went to a friend’s property off Bailey Road, sat by the Little Cahaba River and told God how mad she was that her daughter was gone.
“That verse came to her mind: Whatever you give up in my name, I will return to you a hundredfold (Matthew 19:29),” Horsley said
Interested in learning more? The Red Barn has scheduled open tours for anyone wanting to learn more about what they do and lay eyes on the property. To join a tour, email Grace Butler at grace@theredbarn.org, or call 205-699-8204.
TOUR DATES:
Friday, Sept. 26 at 9 a.m.
Sunday, Sept. 28 at 2 p.m.
Thursday, Oct. 2 at 4:30 p.m.
Friday, Oct. 10 at 2 p.m.
And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or wife or children or fields for my sake will receive a hundred times as much and will inherit eternal life.
-Matthew 19:29 (NIV)
about Cowart’s encounter. “She said, ‘OK, but a hundred daughters are not enough. I want a thousand. Love was so special. I want a thousand daughters.’”
Cowart knew this was God’s promise to her. She began to see it being fulfilled through the girls who grew up under her training.
Still, she knew there was more. She wanted to teach those whose lives are especially difficult.
Several decades later, Cowart and O’Neal became friends through Cowart teaching O’Neal’s children to ride. One day O’Neal asked Cowart to go with her to look at some property she might buy.
As soon as they turned onto the property, Cowart began to cry. She told O’Neal that this was the place and that O’Neal had to buy it.
It was the same land where God promised Cowart a hundredfold.
“She explained her vision was that the children would come into the little red barn on one side— broken, disabled, feeling hopeless,” Horsley said. “Then they would get washed clean, almost like a
car wash. They would come out the other end with hope and a renewed sense of purpose and faith— to restore faith, hope and love. That’s why that’s our tagline. That’s what we do.”
O’Neal bought the property, and at first, it was simply a family-owned, family-run horse riding lesson facility. Then word got out, and it started growing. Currently, The Red Barn serves more than 100 children a week as well as helping veterans.
Equine-assisted programs have more than the obvious benefits. Ann Baldwin, a professor at the University of Arizona, who has a doctorate in physiology, led a study on this rarely known special relationship between horses and humans, which Horsley referenced.
“Horses and humans have a deep connection, and this is just one study showing proof of that!” Horsley said. “Numerous studies show decreases in blood pressure, cortisol levels and general signs of stress and anxiety in humans when humans work with horses.”
Their well-trained horses, certified staff and a
slew of well-screened volunteers come together to serve children and adults through their various programs.
Two of those children are Chris and Isaiah Robinson, whose adoptive mother, Francis Robinson, said have many needs. Chris, who was exposed to drugs prenatally, also has cerebral palsy, stage 4 gastroesophageal reflux disease, severe scoliosis, vision issues, a blood disorder, autism spectrum disorder, major eating difficulties and was recently diagnosed with a very rare genetic disease.
Chris has benefited most through therapeutic riding.
“His core strength, because of the cerebral palsy, was really bad,” Francis said. “The horses and riding and having to sit up has strengthened that to the point where now he can swim. When he stands, you still see the curvature, but when he gets on that horse, he works to hold himself
straight up. You can just tell the world is different from when he’s on the horse and off the horse.”
The horses also help with issues arising from autism. Chris can get overwhelmed easily and doesn’t like to be touched. However, he’s completely different with animals, always wanting to “love on them.” At school, he gets teased a lot, but at The Red Barn, Chris has become confident. He can follow directions better.
“It’s made a huge difference in his life,” Francis said.
Isaiah also has many medical issues, but the one helped most by The Red Barn is his speech.
Isaiah has speech dyspraxia, a disorder where there may be good motor function for speech but the brain isn’t able to control those muscles. The doctors said he would never talk.
Not only does he talk, but he also sings.
Isaiah, now 17, started horseback riding at The Red Barn and moved on to the skilled classes and
Since its inception, The Red Barn has offered free services to veterans and their children that include therapeutic horseback riding, equine-assisted learning and using the serene location for a time of socialization in a peaceful environment. Abi Ward was one of this program’s first students and began participating after her brother, Cpl. Anthony Clay Ward, who struggled with PTSD, died by suicide.
“Abi began taking horseback riding lessons, and eventually, she became a volunteer and then an intern, and now she’s still involved as an adult,” Executive Director Shannon Horsley said.
For more information or to donate to the program, visit theredbarn.org/veterans.
job training.
“He loves it here,” Francis said. “He just smiles all the time.”
One of the “thousand girls” from God’s promise to Cowart also grew up benefitting from The Red Barn’s opportunities. Hailey Leslie was accidentally shot. She became legally blind, has mouth trauma, a traumatic brain injury and cerebral palsy.
Christy Leslie, Hailey’s mother, appreciates the responsibilities Hailey is expected to accomplish. Hailey does chores, including having to “scoop poop,” as Hailey said.
She also gets shavings used for bedding in the horses’ stalls. When it’s time to ride, she goes to the tack room and gets her horse’s bin with its personalized brushes. She brushes her horse and puts up the tack after riding.
“You can ask anybody in there, she’s a completely different child from when she started to how she is now,” Christy said. “She’s not as erratic; she’s not as emotional. I like the fact that she can come here no matter of her physical or mental state, with any disability or ailment. She can come, and she can ride.”
To learn more about or to donate to The Red Barn, visit theredbarn.org.
When people with extraordinary talent and passion are given the technology, the facilities, and the support, they achieve great things. The discoveries taking place today will help shape the future of treatments and lead to cures – benefitting not only our patients and families, but people across the country and around the world for years to come.
DOWNTOWN MAIN CAMPUS
1600 7TH AVENUE SOUTH
BIRMINGHAM, AL 35233
We are here in your neighborhood at Pediatrics East. To schedule an appointment at either the Trussville or Deerfoot locations visit www.pediatricseast.org
By Kate Seaver | Photos by VisitLEX, Keeneland & Contributed
When the lingering summer heat leaves you longing for crisp air and crunching leaves, Lexington, Kentucky, offers the perfect autumn getaway. Known as the “Horse Capital of the World” and “Bourbonland,” Lexington is renowned for its unique culture and welcoming environment. From apple orchards and bourbon trails, to horse riding and fine dining, curate the autumn trip of your dreams in bluegrass country.
Distinguished society and cultured lifestyle go hand in hand in Lexington, which was once referred to as the “Athens of the West.” It has retained much of its history, now hosting restaurants and inns in these historic homes.
Lyndon House Bed & Breakfast In a building that has been standing since 1883, this adorable bed-and-breakfast provides a cozy interior to match its classic exterior. The breakfast is fantastic and a perfect example of southern hospitality. The establishment features a full-service bar offering local bourbons and is in close proximity to all of the wonders of Lexington.
21c Museum Hotel This hotel in downtown Lexington seeks to blend contemporary art with hospitality. Featuring an art exhibit with more than 50 pieces, the hotel promises guests quite distinguished accommodations. For a truly unique experience, book the Nightwatch suite — a hotel room and an art installation in one. For the more average enjoyer, 21c offers usual hotel rooms. Around the corner and connected to the building is Lockbox, the hotel’s fine dining restaurant.
Elwood Hotel & Suites If you see a mural of flowers blossoming around the corner of a building, you know you’ve reached this boutique hotel. This pet-friendly accommodation highlights its abundance of natural light and homey atmosphere. Elwood features a restaurant of its own, too. Fiddletree Kitchen & Bar provides live music and comfort food.
The land of bourbon serves delicious southern cooking and good eatin’ everywhere you turn.
The Merrick Inn Merrick was the name of a highly successful thoroughbred raised on this horse farm in the early 1900s. In this historic house that was built before the Civil War, this restaurant serves elevated southern cuisine for brunch through dinner. Try the shrimp and grits, chicken cordon bleu or the fried chicken for a sure winner.
Joe Bologna’s Restaurant & Pizzeria This Italian pizzeria is housed in a former synagogue with preserved architecture and stained glass windows. The breadsticks, pizza dough and sauces are all made in-house. The breadsticks are an absolute must-try, especially paired with garlic butter. Enjoy this restaurant throughout the week, but know it is closed on Mondays.
Explore these pubs and distilleries, making Lexington famous for its bourbon:
uBarrel House Distilling Company —
The barreling house of the old Pepper Distillery is where this distillery is located, and it offers tours and tastings. Stop by the Elkhorn Tavern beforehand for food and cocktails.
uJames E. Pepper Distillery — This historic distillery operated from the American Revolution to 1967 and was reopened in 2017. It still uses original recipes.
uLexington Brewing & Distilling Co. — Known as the beer of bourbon country, this brewery uses fresh bourbon barrels to produce barrel-aged beers. It’s the only combination-brewery-and-distillery on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.
uWise Bird Cider Co. — Although not bourbon, this cidery creates small-batch craft ciders using 100 percent freshly pressed apples.
With many family-friendly activities tied to the countryside and rolling farmland, Lexington boasts the ability to craft the perfect fall itinerary for every visitor’s interest.
Visit Orchards — Eckert’s Versailles Orchard, located 20 minutes outside of Lexington, will fill your belly with apple butter and warm cider donuts, while the kids run through the corn maze and pick apples and pumpkins.
Evans Orchard & Cider Mill boasts fun for the whole family with a play area and a barnyard for the kids, as well as a farmers market with fresh produce picked daily.
Horse Riding Kentucky Horse Park offers horseback riding on a guided, 35-minute-long trail ride suitable for beginners. This park also holds live shows, has grounds for camping and a horse museum.
Viewing History At the Mary Todd Lincoln House, discover the family home of our 16th president’s first lady. Book a self-guided or guided tour to learn about her life and politics during her time. Stop by the historic Patterson Cabin, built around 1780, by one of the area’s earliest settlers. Ashland: The Henry Clay Estate, the distinguished estate belonging to Henry Clay, offers tours to learn about and appreciate Clay’s contributions to United States politics. He represented the state of Kentucky in the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives during the Antebellum era and helped found the National Republican Party and the Whig Party.
Venture outside the city for a day to take in the beautiful fall foliage and hike at Red River Gorge. Go to The Arboretum, a 100-acre public garden to soak in more of the fall foliage. See a concert or catch a show at the historic Lexington Opera House, a theater built in 1886. A classic Lexington landmark, Thoroughbred Park captures the city’s commitment to the equine world with several bronze, lifelike statues capturing the spirit of racing near the finish line.
A trip to Lexington would not be complete without a visit to Keeneland, the nation’s largest Thoroughbred auction house. A national historic landmark open 365 days a year to the public, Keeneland holds seasonal, world-class racing as well. Created to be a gathering space for all, Keeneland has beautifully landscaped grounds that everyone can enjoy.
uStart your day with breakfast at Keeneland Track Kitchen. You could find yourself eating alongside the trainers, jockeys and owners!
uChoose from the five offered tours of the grounds for whatever piques your interest. You could see the morning training workouts, the behind-the-scenes of the auction house or the operations of the stables, including care of the horses.
uAttend a race during the Keeneland Fall Race Meet held Oct. 3-25. Be aware, there is no racing on Mondays or Tuesdays, so plan accordingly to incorporate or avoid the races in your trip.
Mary Kay – Jinni Dempsey
Five Loaves Micro Bakery, LLC
Sonic Sweet Caroline’s
LifeSouth Community Blood Centers
To support your business
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To support your schools
As your information bureau
As your business resource
As your liasion between city government and the business community
Hello again, Leeds!
As I settle into my role as Executive Director of the Leeds Area Chamber of Commerce, I continue to be inspired by the heart and hustle of this incredible community. It’s been a joy getting to know so many of you—your passion for local business, your pride in our city, and your eagerness to connect and grow together.
Since stepping into this role, I’ve had the privilege of seeing firsthand what makes Leeds truly special. Whether it’s welcoming new businesses, organizing community events, or simply sharing a coffee and conversation, each moment reminds me why I love what I do.
Our Chamber is more than just an organization—it’s a network of neighbors, dreamers, and doers. I’m committed to creating spaces where everyone feels seen, supported, and celebrated. My goal remains the same: to strengthen relationships, spark new opportunities, and help our community thrive.
Thank you for the warm welcome and continued encouragement. I can’t wait to see what we build together next.
Amy Lee Executive Director, Leeds Area Chamber of Commerce
30th annual Leeds Creek Bank Festival
May 24, 2025
OCTOBER 7
National Night Out 5-7 p.m.
Leeds Memorial Park
OCTOBER 23
Chamber Member Appreciation Cookout 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
First Baptist Church
OCTOBER 31
Downtown Trick or Treat 3-5 p.m.
Downtown Leeds
NOVEMBER 8
Cruise-In for Toys
Downtown Leeds
NOVEMBER 20
Downtown Tree Lighting 6 p.m.
Gazebo on corner of Parkway and Ninth Street
DECEMBER 12 Mistletoe on Main (hosted by Main Street) 4-7 p.m.
Downtown Leeds
DECEMBER 12
Christmas Parade 7 p.m.
Downtown Leeds
From Friday-Sunday, May 2-4, at Barber Motorsports Park, fans from around the world gathered to watch the races with Álex Palou taking home the win.
1. Viviana Marino, Melissa Garcia and Sandy Marino
2. Michael Crawford, Ray Briskey and Bryce Dininger
3. Adam, Worth, Penny, Ellie and Penn Jarboe
4. Chris and Hadley Laney
5. Jamie and Shanon Fox and Michelle and Adam Power
6. Jaylen Green and Brandon and Tavi Usher
7. Eliana Fish, Hannah Dindorf, Bethan Jones, Laura Harrington, Jess Lake and Lucy Bond
8. Sharon and Jonathan King
9. Mindi and Kamil Falkowski
10. Iran Chavez,Yolanda Enriquez, Erandi Joachim and Emmanuel Monterrubio
11. Jonathan, Jennifer, Kate and Garrett Blocker
12. Cindy, Jack, Birdie and Jack Sawyer
13. Shelley, Doug and Melody Feay
14. Justin and Kason Morgan and Kim Oxley
15. Kristen and Colt Hinchman and Terresa, Andrew, Jaymie and Emanuel Schepers
KIM BASS
On Saturday, May 3, at Moody City Park, groups from around St. Clair County came to compete in the Kiwanis Club of St. Clair County’s second annual pancake cook-off with the Leeds Area Chamber of Commerce taking home the award for Best Team Spirit.
1. Emanuel Vallejo, Amy Lee and Casey Parsons
2. Amber Wilton
3. Pam Long and Nancy Johnson
4. Jasmine Sledge, Katie Ashmore, Drew Russell, Brandon Ellis, Andrea Machen ad Wes Harrell
5. Dr. Cody Stubbs and family
6. Justin Krump, Kevin Abbott and Steven Humber
7. Amelia Thornhill
8. Izabella Ragan, Mollie Grames and Elizabeth Segars
9. Shannon Smith and Jenny Bartz
PHOTOS
BY
MICHAELA BANKSTON
On Wednesday, June 25, at the Livery Event Center, James Spann gave a fun weather presentation as part of the Leeds Jane Culbreth Public Library’s summer reading program.
1. Jonah, Charlie and Maegan Dockery
2. Emmy Burdette, James Spann and Vivi, Lauren and DJ Burdette
3. The Kuykendall Family
4. Grayson, Miles, Vianey, Avila, Kym and Sylvie
5. Debbie Scott and Liam and Isaac Deweese
6. Rosalee Harris and Elizabeth Smith
7. James Spann and Milly and Sara Tomlin
8. The Frees Family
BY JESSE TURNER
On Thursday, May 22, at Church of the Highlands, Leeds High School Class of 2025 walked across the stage to receive their diplomas, marking the end of the high school career.
1. Helen Poirier and Hannalyse Hudson
2. Gabby Williams
3. Josh Lee and Jaelyn Felder
4. Calvin Jones, ZJ Dale, Dorian Hunter, Miles Ashford, Mikah Jackson and Miles Jones
5. Halen Adams
6. Takiya Patton and Ava Kate Payne
7. Jeremiah Millington, Shea Driggers, Eddie Wall and Jake Wingo
8. Scout Thomas
9. Dorian Hunter, Ronaiya Hunter, Madyson Jackson and Mikah Jackson
10. Flor Flores Sanchez
11. Marley Miller, McKinnon Baker and Selah Larson
12. Abram Davis
13. Sandi Galloway, Lee Kelly and Amy Powers
14. Hannalyse Hudson
15. Kaleb St. John
16. Gabby Williams and Scout Thomas
17. Wyatt Hensley
AMANDA E.H. PRITCHARD
On Thursday, July 17, patrons stopped by the weekly Leeds Farmers Market to purchase produce, baked goods, flowers and more.
1. Brooks and Molly Smitherman
2. Roxie Durrah
3. Sara Wright and Brandon Smith
4. Zane and Mary Lee
5. Tina Poe
6. Tori Boles, Chris Coggins and Julia Sanders
7. Justin and Claire Adderholt
8. Misty and Camden Garner
9. Rachel and Cora Shores
10. Kaylin Anastasia
11. Tammy Harris, Maggie Hollback and Wren Hollback
12. Jade, Penny, Isabella and Chris Ziminisky
13. Jenna Dutton and Patricia Horne
14. Lillie Harrigan and Darcy Phillips
15. Rusty and Thomas Tucker
16. Kelli Agnew
17. Lisa Kennedy, Caroline Powers and Justin Powers
18. Amber and Jay Stiles
PHOTOS BY KIM BASS
On Saturday, May 24, at Leeds Memorial Park, many gathered for a full day of festivities at the 30th annual Leeds Creek Bank Festival, hosted by the Leeds Area Chamber of Commerce.
1. Gunner Rogers
2. Kaci Bemowski
3. Josh Marks
4. Laura Parenteau
5. Bently Engstrom
6. Margaret Little
7. Greyson McGinnis
8. Kim Ramkishun
9. Lakitha Colley and Reina Soto
10. Jen Virciglio
Miss Leeds Area 2025
Leeds Memorial Park
I have spent a lot of time at events at Leeds Memorial Park for events such as Veterans Memorial Ceremony, National Night Out and Creek Bank Festival. The area is always so clean and beautiful, and it’s perfect for the entire family!
El Cazador
I love getting the cheesy chicken and rice at El Cazador in Leeds! My family loves to eat there, and we always receive the best service.
Veterans Day
My favorite day in Leeds is Veterans Day because the City of Valor always goes all out for our local heroes. It starts with the City of Valor 5k and pancake breakfast. Then there is lunch at the American Legion Post 107, followed by the Veterans Memorial Ceremony. The day is always so special and intentional in honoring our veterans.
Miss Leeds Area
My favorite memory is when I was crowned Miss Leeds Area. I am so honored and excited to represent a community that recognizes the importance of supporting our veterans and first responders. It was an honor to make Leeds proud this year at Miss Alabama!
American Legion Post 107
I love visiting the American Legion Post 107 because the people are absolutely incredible, and they have helped me so much in establishing my community service initiative.
