In the quickly evolving fashion industry, third-generation owners Michael and John Gee keep their customers at the forefront after 75 years.
See who you said are Leeds’ best retailers, restaurants, community events and more.
THE CITY: EXPLORING NEW YORK STATE
From the breezy coast to the tranquil lakes to the mighty falls, New York has a lot to explore outside its namesake city.
Michaela Bankston
Dave Domescik
Anna Grace Moore
Tyler Raley
Andrew Simonson
Noah Wortham
CONTRIBUTORS
Lacey Barnwell
Amanda Pritchard
Blair Ramsey
Kate Seaver
RGR Media
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
Lacey is the owner and photographer at LB Studios in Leeds. 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
Amanda is Southern with a twist! Her zest for life comes through in her photography by capturing those just-right moments. From her days photographing for hyperlocal newspapers to creating social media content, “The Pritch” loves storytelling through a photographic lens. 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. Being camera-ready reminds Amanda of her favorite quote from “Steel Magnolias” said by Dolly Parton as Truvy Jones, “Smile! It increases your face value!”
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.
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 is published quarterly by Shelby County Newsmedia Inc., P.O. Box 947, Columbiana, AL 35051. Leeds Living 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, Leeds Living, P.O. Box 947, Columbiana, AL 35051.
Leeds Living 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@leedslivingmagazine.com, or by calling (205) 669-3131, ext. 536.
FFor a few of my college years, I worked at a barbecue restaurant. Each day I sold pork sandwiches and ribs, refilled sweet teas and eventually left with the aroma of hickory smoke clinging to me.
Waiting tables is a fairly common job for college students, but it’s probably a little odd that the entire time I worked there, I followed a vegan diet—I did not eat any animal products, including meat, dairy and eggs.
For that reason, when Rusty Tucker told me a story about a man who annually came to his restaurant with a group of friends and ordered only a plain baked potato and salad, I did not find it strange. It was all too familiar. However, the rest of the story, which you can read on page 25, did catch me off guard. The short version is jackfruit, a vegan alternative to pulled pork, is a mainstay on the menu at Rusty’s BarB-Q.
I don’t blame the restaurant I worked at for not adding something that is not barbecue to their menu, but I admire Rusty’s intentionality in wanting others to feel welcome even when it only affects a small group. That type of effort is part of what Jesse Turner calls “greenie spirit.”
When I arrived at the high school to interview Jesse, I was met at the office with an energetic, cheerful demeanor I am sure anyone who has visited the high school would recognize. I followed as he navigated the halls during class change, giving out high fives, addressing students by name and asking about things he knew they had going on. In his classroom, he emphasized the importance of students having a place they feel connected, along with his passion for Leeds and his family, which you can read about on page 17.
THE COVER michaela@leedslivingmagazine.com
Alongside these stories, you will find others of growth, accomplishment and triumph. Tena Payne’s journey from her basement to international company is on page 11. The owners of Pants Store look back on where they started as they celebrate 75 years in Leeds on page 37, and of course, the winners of our Leeds’ Best competition start on page 43.
As you read this issue, I hope you feel inspired to celebrate someone else’s win in addition to your own. May you also take pride in this town, which I have had the pleasure of getting to know over the past few months. I have delighted in telling these stories and putting together this issue, but I know they are only the beginning.
Hope you enjoy,
“THE QUESTION
”
My little brother Daniel Wise! He stands up for his beliefs even if he’s standing alone. He’s a great uncle to his nephews and such a great young man of God. Love you Daniel!
-Ashley Michelle
Sophie Gromko. She has been a true role model and an inspiring young lady. Follower of Jesus and isn’t afraid to show it. So proud of her and cannot wait to see what her future holds.
-Camille Whitfield
Conner Nelson, the way he interacts with all the young kids that look up to him as a QB and Baseball Player is awesome to watch! A great athlete, respectful young man, and an amazing role model!
-Eric Velez Ruiz
Sophie Gromko has been such a good dog sitter and baby sitter for us! Wilson Beasley I’ve watched grow up! Lexi Drake and family have been near to my heart for years! Love this group of kids!
-Tiffany Abel Ward
Flor Flores Sanchez! She is kind, smart, and athletic. I had the pleasure of teaching her for 2 years, and I’m glad I got to be a small part of her life.
-Johannah Williams Hudson
All the seniors are amazing, but if I had to pick just one it would be Marley Miller, she is truly one of a kind. True leader on and off the field/court, loves God and isn’t afraid to show it.
-Krystal CoachMom Garner
Lilly Dawson
-Adam Vaught
Gabby Williams, Lupe Roman, Flor Flores Sanchez, Valeria Betancourt, Ingrid Martinez, Jasmin Zapeta, and Bailey Hughes. They are kind human beings with great futures!
-Wes Langford
AUG. 14, 22 & SEPT. 5
7 P.M.
Homer Smiles Stadium
Football is back, and the boys will play in a jamboree against Helena on Aug. 14 and officially open the season against Mortimer Jordan on Aug. 22 at home. They will play at Shades Valley the following week and return home on Sept. 5 to face Springville.
EVERY MONDAY
11 A.M.-2 P.M. Corner of Eighth Street & Parkway Drive
Food Truck Mondays have arrived! Each Monday through August, a food truck will be downtown to offer an extra lunch option. La Antojería Snack Bar N’ More, The Lil Bougie Foodie, Stephen’s Dogs and More and Uncle G’s Pizza are already confirmed for June. To see updates, visit facebook. com/LeedsAreaChamber.
EVERY THURSDAY
3-7 P.M.
The Green Space
The Leeds Farmers Market has returned and will take place every Thursday until August. A variety of vendors arrive each afternoon with their handmade and homegrown products. For more information and to see specific vendors each week, find Leeds Farmers Market on Facebook.
EVERY MONDAY
Food Truck Mondays Corner of Eighth Street & Parkway Drive
EVERY THURSDAY
Leeds Farmers Market
The Green Space
JUNE 1-5
“Magnified!” Vacation Bible School First Baptist Church Leeds
JUNE 2-15
“Aladdin Jr.” Camp Leeds Arts Council
JUNE 6
“The Princess and the Frog” Summer Movie Night Corner of Eighth Street & Parkway Drive
JUNE 8
Annual Meeting & Leeds History Film Debut
Leeds Historical Society
JUNE 8-11
“Follywood” Vacation Bible School Ashville Road Church of Christ
JUNE 13-15
“Aladdin Jr.” Performances Leeds Arts Council
JUNE 16-29
“Shrek Jr.” Camp Leeds Arts Council
JUNE 21, JULY 19, AUG. 16 Summer Market Days Hosted by Leeds Main Street The Green Space
JUNE 23-26
“Magnified!” Vacation Bible School
Leeds Valley Church
JUNE 27-29
“Shrek Jr.” Performances
Leeds Arts Council
JUNE 27, JULY 25, AUG. 22
Motors on Main Downtown Leeds
JUNE 28
Kiddie Day Parade and Water Wars
Leeds Memorial Park
JULY 11
“Mufasa” Summer Movie Night Corner of Eighth Street & Parkway Drive
JULY 14-18
“Scuba Diving into Friendship with God’s Love” Vacation Bible School
Cedar Grove Baptist Church
JULY 24-AUG. 3
“The Music Man” Performances Leeds Arts Council
JULY 28-29
“Little Shop of Horrors” Auditions Leeds Arts COuncil
AUG. 1
“The Wild Robot” Summer Movie Night Corner of Eighth Street & Parkway Drive
AUG. 1-2
Grand Opening of Birmingham Terminal Exhibit
The Depot
AUG. 14
Varsity Football Jamboree vs Helena Homer Smiles Stadium
AUG. 22
Varsity Football First Game vs. Mortimer Jordan Homer Smiles Stadium
AUG. 26
Varsity & JV Volleyball Games vs. Springville Leeds High School
AUG. 27
Varsity & JV Volleyball Games vs. Pinson Valley & Cornerstone Leeds High School
AUG. 26, 27 & SEPT. 2, 4
Leeds High School
*see chart as times vary
SEPT. 6
8 A.M. Homer Smiles Field
The Greenwave Flag Football team is hosting a six-team tournament. Food trucks will be onsite. Day passes cost $10 and allow attendees to watch any game. They will be available for purchase on GoFan.co and at the gate. To stay up to date, follow them on Instagram (@leedsflagfootball).
Tena Payne started throwing pottery in high school, and her work is now throughout the world.
BY MICHAELA BANKSTON
JJust off Parkway Drive, a light brick building sits seemingly destined to rest in its place. At first glance inside, exquisite pieces of displayed pottery welcome one to Earthborn Studios Inc. Just behind there, rows of red dust-coated shelves filled with stacks of pottery, some finished and others in need of color, lead to different work areas.
In one corner women throw clay on pottery wheels, while in the other, a machine presses bricks of clay. In between other workers mold dishes by hand. Regardless of their origin, each piece heads to one of eight kilns to harden before someone glazes them. They are then returned to the kilns for a final fire before someone sands the bottoms to create a smooth base.
The operation has grown quite a bit since Tena Payne first put her hands in clay.
Payne, who described her younger self as “all over the place” with a knack for getting into trouble, first
discovered pottery in a high school art class.
“When she brought the potter in, and he sat there, and he made a pot in five minutes, it was instant gratification,” Payne said.
From then on, she spent free time in the art class practicing, and as a troubled teen, she had the opportunity to take home a wheel over the Christmas holiday. She checked out books from the library on pottery making to see how they held their hands and taught herself how to throw.
During these times, she first began to fall in love with “the transformation of materials.”
“You take it out of the ground; you rearrange it; you put it in the fire; and here it is forever,” Payne said.
Following high school she spent a year at the University of Montevallo honing and advancing her skills before leaving the university to marry her now husband, who moved around as a member of the
Marine Corps. Though she spent some time without her hands in the clay, that did not stop her from continually reading about the process as well as the chemicals and how they all react.
Six months after the birth of their son, Payne’s husband purchased her first pottery wheel, which currently resides in the back corner of Earthborn. Back then it sat in her basement that served as her first studio. She spent nights and weekends there forging pieces to take to art shows while also working full time.
For a period in the 1990s, Payne’s full-time gig involved sifting through readers’ inquiries on having their gardens featured in Southern Living. One such letter was from a man about his shiitake
mushroom farm.
“The magazine wasn’t interested in doing that, but my husband and I were fascinated,” Payne said. They went to learn and visited other places before adding shiitake growing to their list of things they did. Their first harvest produced 60-70 pounds per week.
“I don’t know if you’ve weighed a mushroom lately, but that’s a lot of mushrooms,” Payne said.
She froze some and dried others, gave some away and sold more to grocery stores, but mushrooms still remained. She finally had the thought to venture downtown and knock on restaurant doors to ask one question: “Do you want to buy my mushrooms?”
“I can’t solve all your problems, but I can give you a moment in the morning with your favorite mug.
-Tena Payne
They did, but more importantly as one of them wrote a check for the mushrooms, she noticed a piece of broken pottery on the floor. There began a six-year period of testing–clay, glazes, functionality–where each time Payne had a new version, she took the piece to new-to-town Chef Chris Hastings.
“When I noticed that he had quit complaining, I realized that I had a product I could sell to other chefs,” Payne said.
With that she began to prepare to take her art show booth to a trade show for chefs, which she attended in August 2003. Payne recalled having the only pieces at the show that were not “round and white.” She sold everything in her booth, and before the day finished, a man approached with her card in his hand to inquire about her work. Specifically, he wanted to know if she could produce 5,000 pieces.
“I thought, ‘Well that’s hypothetical. Nobody ever
wants 5,000 pots,’” Payne recalled. “I said, ‘Well, I’ll find a way.’”
That man took her work to Las Vegas and sold it to the Bellagio. She was still working out of her basement.
After a failed partnership with a manufacturer, Payne had to find a way to create the pieces on her own. She took the purchase order from the Bellagio to the bank to secure the loan for the current location, hired a few people, including her son, and did just that.
Payne said she still works with the Bellagio and other MGM Resorts International properties today.
Around the same time, the man from the trade show’s company discussed mass producing her products and selling them all over the world.
“The next thing I knew they had come out with their own line, called Craft. They had knocked me off,” Payne said. “They actually lifted verbiage off
my website.”
Payne said there was nothing she could do due to the size of the other company. As leaders in the industry, once the company came out with their Craft line, others began to follow suit, but Earthborn still has a few differentiating factors.
“Anybody who wants an authentic, handmade piece comes to us,” Payne said. “Anybody who wants something creative, something different, something special with their brand on it—that’s what we do.”
The handmade nature of Earthborn’s products allows the buyer creativity. Payne said she works oneon-one with chefs to create dishes that solve their specific needs before presenting them with multiple options to either “choose, tweak or start over.”
“There’s a lot of ways that you can make this cheaper and better, but you have to use automation, and it has to be the same,” Payne said. “We embrace our nuances.”
Payne said another distinction is her red clay body, which “is a blend of different types of clay to give us the attributes we want for our end result.” The red clay body solved previous issues she had with cracking, and she has used it ever since.
Almost two decades since opening the location, Earthborn is in restaurants across the United States, as well as in Amsterdam, London, Dubai and Hong Kong. Payne sells her art out of Earthborn as well as other retailers and ships her products worldwide. She attributes it all to one thing.
“It has been a God-thing every step of the way,” Payne said.
As each door opened and she walked through, Payne gained experience that brought her here. Payne’s son, Nathan Payne, still works with her and has since been joined by his wife and three of Tena’s grandchildren. Her youngest granddaughter, 11, is too young to be on payroll but still spends plenty of time throwing pots.
“I think there’s potential there she could be the third generation to run this thing,” Nathan said of his daughter. “She really loves it.”
In the meantime, the Payne family continues to craft products used today that will last forever.
Earthborn is located at 7575 Parkway Drive in Leeds. It is open Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., and Friday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. To view products and see class options, visit earthbornpottery.net.
Recommendations from Leeds Jane Culbreth Library Staff
To highlight the theme of summer reading, we wanted to highlight some works about art, artists and other ways of unleashing your creativity into the world. The theme, “Color Your World,” is rather broad and has flexibility to apply to readers of all ages. All of these items are available at the Leeds Jane Culbreth Library and are just a small sample of the books that explore these thematic elements. READ THIS BOOK
By Beatrix Potter | All Ages
This book about the prolific and famous children’s author and artist is filled with, as expected from the title, a great deal of the author’s artistic works. In addition, however, it contains pictures of the places that inspired her work and essays about her life and her process. Anyone with even a passing familiarity with Potter’s works will find something to like here. Even if you aren’t familiar, the warmth and charm of her art makes it worth a browse.
By
Ann Waldron | Ages 8-12
For something a little less encyclopedic and simple, “Who Was Claude Monet?,” one in a series of childfriendly biographies of famous people, features beautiful, original illustrations along with reproductions of Monet’s work. The story of his life is written in a snappy, easy-to-read manner that allows young readers to learn about the life of the Impressionist painter.
By Drew Daywalt
| Ages 3-6
Sometimes coloring your world is very literal when your characters are crayons. This picture book is a cute and funny story great for young readers and their parents. Of special note is the minimalistic but vibrant art that is as delightful to look at as the story is to read. Even better, if children enjoy this, there are several other books with this story’s crayons.
By Coco Simon |
Ages 8-12
Art comes in all forms, not just drawing and coloring, but also culinary creation. This is the first in a series of incredibly cute and sweet (no pun intended) stories about cupcake making, friendship and more. While these books are not new, the new graphic novel format’s vibrant coloring and expressive characters make it a charming read.
By Anna Ottum | Adults
The theme of coloring your world doesn’t just extend to creative arts, such as cooking and painting but to your personal space. Anna Ottum’s brightly and lovingly illustrated book gives great tips for making the most of what space you do have. She writes in a conversational and casual style that matches the aesthetics of the book.
The Turner family exudes the Greenie spirit in their day-to-day life and teaching Leeds students.
BY MICHAELA BANKSTON
TThe stadium lights sliced through the crisp fall air over the field at Homer Smiles Stadium, bringing to life the players and coaches on it. Wide Receivers
Coach Jesse Turner moved along the sideline with almost as much energy as his 3-year-old son, who ran back-and-forth from the end zone, full of coaches’ wives, to the track by the cheerleaders. Though she was less than a week from giving birth to their second son, Jordyn Turner still sat by the goal post cheering on the Greenwave. Jesse’s mom directed the cheer squad, and his dad watched intently from the stands. For the Turner family, this scene plays out almost every fall Friday night.
Jerry and Patricia Partridge attended Leeds High School in the 1950s. They married before graduation and had four children. Jerry coached high school football for more than 30 years. All four of their
children, and six of their seven grandchildren went on to work in schools, and the seventh only deviated as far as social work.
“His influence is obvious,” Jesse said of his grandfather, whom he misses every day.
Jesse grew up in Leeds and wanted to play football as a kid, but he said his mother would not allow him until sixth grade. After that he caught “the football bug” that has yet to subside.
He played in middle and high school, which led to what he called some of the greatest memories of his life. Beyond football, Jesse credits Leeds with giving him all the tools he needed to succeed at the University of Alabama.
“This place gave me so much,” Jesse said. “I feel a sense of debt to this place. I need to serve here.”
This place is also where he, at some point, caught
the attention of Jordyn. Though Jordyn grew up in Trussville, her stepsiblings went to Leeds, and her stepsister was in the same grade as Jesse. She frequently attended Leeds events with them, and they found themselves in similar circles.
“I always thought he was really cute,” Jordyn said.
However, Jesse dated someone else in high school, and the two really only knew of each other. Then he went off to college. A year later, she also began school at the University of Alabama, and the pair, both single, connected and went on a date.
Jesse and Jordyn both place blame on him for why they did not continue dating at the time, but they also agree it was for the best.
“We always say ‘if we had kept dating the first
time, we don’t think that we would have worked out,’” Jordyn said. “I was a freshman in college, and he was a sophomore, and we were still just trying to figure things out.”
Three years later Jordyn accepted Jesse’s request for a second chance. Exactly a year later, while he was teaching and during her senior year of college, he proposed; she said yes; and they married the following March.
At the time, they lived in Leeds, and Jesse taught here, but Jordyn had found a job at another school system after college. While she enjoyed her time there, she knew she wanted to end up in Leeds with their future children.
“I had a great time over there, and it was some of the best years of my life working over there, but I
A Greenie by grace or a Greenie by God: Greenies by God grew up here or we’re born here, and I am a Greenie by grace.
-Jordyn Turner
knew the moment that I had an opportunity to come here, that was 100 percent the choice that I wanted to make,” Jordyn, who currently teaches special education at Leeds Primary School, said.
Jordyn’s students come to her class for different reasons, but many of them struggle with reading. She said she loves introducing them to school and finds it especially rewarding to see them light up when they figure out a sentence for the first time.
“I think by now she’s proven she’s a really good special ed teacher,” Jesse said of his wife. “She’s wonderful, and she’s an asset to our community.”
As for Jesse, he has never known anywhere else. Even while in Tuscaloosa for college, he commuted back-and-forth on the weekends to volunteer with the football team.
“I got offered a couple of jobs, but ultimately, I
was waiting on Leeds. I love this place,” he said.
Jesse currently teaches sophomore English and oversees RGR Media, a student-led media organization, which offers students another place to get connected at school.
“The more that they can get involved with our school, or we can get involved with them, the better, because then they’re associated with something. They have somebody in the building that loves them, that cares about them and is curious about them. Then they’re less likely to slip through the cracks,” he said, “I think we do a great job of that at Leeds.”
He also coaches wide receivers for the football team as well as varsity softball, which gives him another opportunity to reach young people. As any coach and most people would, Jesse obviously
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wants to win, but he also acknowledges that sometimes there are greater lessons in the losses.
“Bad stuff will happen, and sports can help prepare you for that stuff,” Jesse said. “I hope that they take little lessons from that to their marriage and to their job and to their real life.”
He also hopes to pass along a lesson he learned from his granddad: “How you treat people matters.”
“My granddad told me before he passed away, ‘How you treat your players, fellow coaches, opposing coaches, opposing players and officials matters,’” Jesse said
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Though he expressed that sometimes the officials offer a more challenging version of this lesson, for him, it is all about the relationships forged along the way.
The Turners have missed one Friday night football game they can remember–almost four years ago on the night James was born. As invested as they are, Jordyn said they never forced James to like sports, but it came naturally growing up around it. Whether running around the football field, helping dad at the batting cages or playing T-ball, James wears a big smile.
This fall the Turners will have another son in tow on Friday nights beginning on Aug. 22 as the Greenwave take on the Mortimer Jordan Blue Devils at Homer Smiles Stadium.
FIVE QUESTIONS FOR
Valedictorian
PHOTO CONTRIBUTED
Hannalyse Hudson has attended Leeds City Schools since kindergarten and loved every second of it. During her senior year, she was team captain of the varsity volleyball team as well as president of Future Teachers of Alabama, and she worked in the after-school care program at Leeds Primary School. This fall, she will move to New York City to attend New York University and study early childhood education.
What has your experience been like at Leeds High School and with Leeds City Schools?
I have loved growing up in the Leeds community! Being able to grow up with the same kids and knowing each other through so many stages of life brings a sense of closeness that I think is harder to achieve at a bigger school. Everyone in the school system values you and your well-being, and it has been wonderful to be a Greenie for the past 13 years of my life!
How do you feel Leeds High School and VIDAL Access have prepared you for the next stage of your life?
Going to Leeds and being graced with the opportunity to work with Mr. Bev
through VIDAL Access have given me so many life skills that I will continue to use in college. From creative essay writing to leadership skills, I am confident in my solo and interpersonal abilities going into the next chapter of higher learning.
What is your favorite memory of the last four years at Leeds High School?
The annual Spring Fling that SGA throws every year is my favorite event at Leeds! We have food trucks, face painting and a huge kickball game that brings the student body together. It is a perfect way to relax and have fun as the school year comes to a close!
Who is your favorite teacher and why?
My favorite teacher that I’ve had while at Leeds High School is Mr. Argo! I took him for Algebra II in 10th grade and AP Statistics my junior year. He is a very goofy guy, and he made learning math (not my strong suit) something I looked forward to every day!
What advice would you give to those entering high school in the coming months?
Take hard classes. You are so much more capable than you believe, and your teachers and peers are more than willing to help you out along the way. My learning and work ethic improved so much while taking AP classes that I wasn’t 100 percent confident I could handle.
Rusty Tucker, owner and chef at Rusty’s Bar-B-Q, enjoys cooking but even more so delights in entertaining people.
BY MICHAELA BANKSTON
PPerched atop a stool in his parents’ kitchen, a young Jonathan “Rusty” Tucker leaned over the counter to crack eggs into a bowl. His dad, Jerry Tucker, prepared a holiday feast of turkey, ham and their family additions, jambalaya and gumbo. The Allman Brothers Band sang through the radio as the rest of the family tidied up the house. Later that day, family friends, new acquaintances and fellow churchgoers would arrive for their first Christmas Eve Eve party.
“He was always underfoot in the kitchen when he was little, and then he became a real help as he got older,” Jerry said.
A few years later, the father-son duo migrated outside and spent more time on the patio. Rusty observed his dad hovering over the grill and assisted as he could until he took over himself. Like the Dec. 23 get-together, family barbecues often extended to the entire neighborhood and gave Rusty a taste of entertaining people.
“All of my happiest memories growing up were around big holidays or big meals or gatherings,” Rusty said. “Food is always a big part of our life.”
While he spent many hours cooking with his dad, Rusty felt he could learn more from a variety of people.
“I always thought that my Grandmother Hazel made the best caramel cake, so I made it a point to learn her caramel cake recipe. My Uncle Tim made the best tacos, so I wanted to learn how to make tacos,” Rusty said. “Whoever made the best, that’s who I wanted to talk to and learn from them.”
His developing passion for cuisine combined with a healthy appetite for the newly popular Food Network led him to a catering company where he worked at 15 years old. A year later he began working in restaurants and fell in love with the industry. After high school, he attended culinary school where he fell in love again. In spring 2007 he and future wife, Beth Tucker, graduated and moved
back to their respective hometowns.
“I was willing to see where things were going to take me at that time,” Beth said. “I had a couple job offers out west if I wanted them.”
After an engagement a few months later, she moved to Alabama.
The following year the pair married, and two weeks after that, they signed a lease in pursuit of a dream Beth said her husband always wanted. After cleaning out and converting the space, the two 24-year-olds opened the doors to Rusty’s Bar-B-Q, which celebrated 16 years in February. Though many family-run restaurants never accomplish half that feat, Rusty is less than amazed with how they started.
“It was stupid. It was not impressive,” Rusty said in regard to opening a restaurant that young. “The fact that we’re still here is a combination of stubbornness, stupidity and just the ignorance that no one told us that we couldn’t do it, so we did.”
In addition to their obstinance, the Tuckers credit a good group of family and friends, who offered helping hands, gave advice where they could and refused to let them fail. Beyond their support, many recipes have come from or are inspired by his family and friends, including the house barbecue sauce, which is based on his grandfather’s recipe.
While the family-inspired sauce has always had a place on each table, some people had different tastes in mind for what they would drizzle on their pulled pork sandwich. Some wanted sweet while others requested spicy, and still others desired a white sauce. In a quest to give people what they wanted, Rusty discovered he had four barbecue sauces all along.
“It’s better to be lucky than good. I just kind of lucked into having four different barbecue sauces available,” Rusty said of the bases for his spicy and sweet baked beans and coleslaw, which have emerged from the kitchen and now reside next to
the house sauce with their new names, spicy, sweet and white.
The menu as a whole features many Alabama barbecue staples such as hickory-smoked pork butts, ribs and Conecuh sausage. To go with one’s meat of choice, they have more than 15 classic sides and seven dessert options.
For the appetite not craving barbecue, try their best-selling cheeseburger.
“It’s a really good cheeseburger,” Rusty said. “We’re not looking to reinvent the wheel here, we’re trying to perfect it. We’re trying to make the best version of the classic cheeseburger.”
The vast menu had plenty of options, but a few people still left less than full. Once a year a man came in with a group. He never complained but only ordered a salad and a plain baked potato.
Though Rusty’s specializes in Alabama-style barbecue, a meal not often sought out by vegetarians, Rusty saw something as missing.
“It was just really sad because everyone else is getting a slab of ribs or a brisket plate or whatever,” he said.
Rusty found and seized a solution when he discovered jackfruit, a vegan alternative to pulled pork.
A couple weeks later a pouty teenage girl shuffled in behind her family and frustratingly stared at the menu. On a hunch he asked if she was vegetarian and offered some remaining jackfruit. He said the simple gesture made her day, and she felt seen.
Since then, jackfruit has had a place on the menu.
“Is it the top seller? No, absolutely not, but for the people that need something that’s a meat substitute, it makes them feel welcome,” Rusty said.
That philosophy drives Rusty. He wants everyone to feel comfortable and have a good time whether they dine in at the restaurant or find themselves at the next Christmas Eve Eve party, which has continued for more than 30 years and most recently
hosted around 100 people.
“I always had a passion for feeding people and making people happy with food and providing great hospitality, and so that’s what we try to do here,”
Rusty said.
BARBECUE
Sampler Platter
uPulled pork, quarter smoked chicken, two ribs, two traditional sides and bread
NON-BARBECUE
Cheeseburger
DESSERT
Peanut Butter Pie and Banana Pudding
uA bite of each together
Rusty’s Bar-B-Q is located at 7484 Parkway Drive in Leeds. It is open Monday-Thursday, 10:30 a.m.-8:30 p.m., and Friday-Saturday, 10:30 a.m.9:30 p.m. For catering or to-go orders, call 205699-4766.
Franklin Manager & Pit Master at Rusty’s Bar-B-Q
PHOTO BY LACEY BARNWELL
Anthony Franklin has worked in the food industry for more than 16 years. A couple years into that journey, his brother James recommended he apply at Rusty’s Bar-B-Q because of the flexibility to work with his schedule and availability in high school. More than 14 years later, he counts his time spent with the company as a blessing and an experience. He also enjoys a myriad of activities including hunting, fishing, reading, anime and gaming – both video and board and card games.
How did you get your start in the food industry?
I got my start in the food industry at 16 working for Taco Bell after my brother-inlaw Paul, general manager for the Bell, vouched for me. He was a harsh taskmaster and drilled into me the importance of accuracy, speed and service. It was a very interesting and fast-paced time in my early adult life.
What has been your favorite part of working at Rusty’s Bar-B-Q?
One of my favorite parts of working for Rusty’s Bar-B-Q is the amazing crew that I have the pleasure to work with. They rise
to the occasion no matter what the day presents, and I greatly respect them for that. I also have the unique benefit of coming in every morning to play with fire! I mean, who wouldn’t love doing that?
How have you enjoyed crafting food for the community of Leeds and beyond?
Having the distinct pleasure of crafting food for the city of Leeds and beyond has been one of my greatest joys over the years. We serve guests anywhere from the greater Birmingham area, to the U.K. and even all the way to Japan!
What is the best item on the menu?
My pick of the best item on the menu is
a difficult choice. It’s a toss-up between the burgers and the ribs. In fact, I’m quite picky about most places where these items are served because of how high we set the bar.
What is your best advice to someone trying to improve their backyard barbecue?
My best advice to someone trying to improve their backyard barbecue is this: Don’t underestimate the power of simple spices such as salt and pepper. Literal wars have been waged in the past over the spice trade. Depending on what you’re doing, a little can go a long way.
Matt and Harper Basquill continue to make memories with their children in their forever home.
BY MICHAELA BANKSTON
The Basquill’s two-story residence sits on a portion of the family land, which they call “The Farm,” making it an easy bike ride to the children’s grandparents and cousins. The farmhouse-style home is complete with a columned, wrap-around porch, twin-size swing and a couple rocking chairs, perfect for watching the kids play in the yard.
HHarper Basquill is a sixth-generation Leeds resident and spent her entire life in Leeds except for a few years away at Auburn University. There she met her husband, Matt Basquill, and though he grew up elsewhere, there was no question the two would return to Leeds after graduation.
The pair married in 2006 and moved into their first home in Leeds.
Over the next decade, they had three children, Hannah Kate, 17, Addison, 15, and Webb, 11, and began to outgrow their first home. From there they had to decide whether they would choose an inbetween house or go ahead and begin building their forever home on the family land.
“We wanted the house that we lived in long term to be the house that when the kids moved out, it had all the memories of when they grew up here,” Harper said.
For that reason, they decided to spend a little more time in the smaller home in order to go ahead and build. This gave the children more time to remember this house starting from the very beginning.
“We tried to do handprints, but it didn’t work out,” Hannah Kate recalled.
Though the weather forced a redo on the concrete, the memory has obviously hung around just as the Basquills intended. Beyond the fun activities, Harper and Matt let the kids have a say in their own rooms and visited frequently to see the building process from the ground up.
“We tried to have the kids involved as much as possible,” Harper said.
The family of five moved in during 2017 and has spent time creating special moments ever since. They have become the Christmas brunch home for all nearby family members and often enjoy family movie nights together.
The Basquills have only one more year until their firstborn ventures away for college. Time will tell if she returns as soon as her mother did, but it is safe to say she and her siblings will always look back fondly at the time spent in the family home.
The dining room centers around a refinished, antique, expandable table. Harper was on a quest for something older and made of real wood when she found this at an antique shop for a bargain price. It is well-illuminated by the exquisite chandelier hanging from above.
Harper’s mom gifted this whiskey barrelturned-storage dispenser to her son-inlaw, an avid bourbon drinker. She purchased this from the auction at The Humane Society’s Jazz Cat Ball.
The spacious kitchen’s clean, minimalist design features a large, marble-topped island with ornate accents, gray subway tile backsplash and a single decorative wreath to add a touch of color.
The downstairs’ open concept leaves more than enough room for this breakfast nook off of the kitchen and living room with lovely morning views of the back porch and yard.
This table was originally black and did not fit with the lighter colors in this area, but Harper did not want to part with it as her and Matt bought it when they first got married. Fortunately, the children ruined the finish with glitter and had fun repainting it themselves.
Harper loves this room the most because it is where everyone gathers when they have people over. In addition to holidays, the Basquills host football Saturdays unless they are watching the game in-person in Auburn.
Consistent with most of the house, the master bedroom contains mostly light colors producing a bright space filled with antique furniture finds and finished with touches of calming blue and gray.
and the
are
Hannah Kate’s room features several light-colored, dainty antique store finds, which gives her room a feel well-fit for the graceful dancer she is.
“This isn’t just my room; it’s Remi’s room,” -Hannah Kate Basquill
Three of Webb’s favorite things–Auburn, Ole Miss and sports in general–influenced the decor of his space.
Specifically, Webb is an avid baseball player and fan. This home plate-shaped, wooden box is quickly filling up with his awards and memorabilia.
In the quickly evolving fashion industry, third-generation owners Michael and John Gee keep their customers at the forefront.
SSeventy-five years ago workers affixed a new sign with three words to a building in downtown Leeds. It extended out over the sidewalk and rested perpendicular to the building for all to read as they walked or rode by. Though the words did not fully indicate everything inside Taylor Gee’s new store, the people had already coined the name.
According to his grandson Michael Gee, Taylor started his career as a pant wholesaler. He purchased pants from the Solomon Trousers Factory in Leeds and other manufacturers that he in turn sold to retailers. Once he opened a warehouse, locals started coming there to buy pants directly from him, and they called it, “The Pants Store.” By the time Taylor decided to open his retail location selling more than just pants, the name had already stuck.
“We’ve kicked around the idea of changing our name over the years, but in the end, it’s what we started with, and we’re proud of it, and we’re going
to stick with it,” current co-owner Michael said.
Michael and his brother, John Gee, began working at the store under their father’s leadership in 2001. At that time, their grandmother, Helen Gee, lived just down the road, and according to Michael, she loved to cook for them. The Gee brothers along with their dad spent weekly lunch breaks at her house. The three generations gathered around the table to enjoy Helen’s cooking and especially her chicken and dumplings.
In 2006 Michael and John purchased the store from their father and became the third generation to own Pants Store. However, their dad remained active with the business, which Michael called a “true blessing.”
“Some people can’t get along with their parents when they run family businesses,” Michael said.
This is where we got our start. We love Leeds, and we love downtown Leeds. We own our property down here, so we’re property owners. We’re proud of our 75 years in Leeds, and we look forward to hopefully a long tenure here in Leeds.
-Michael Gee
“We definitely had our differences, don’t get me wrong, but I treasure the time I had to work with my dad.”
More than a decade later, Michael’s and John’s teenage children have the same opportunity and currently represent the fourth generation of Gees working at Pants Store. As to whether they will follow in their fathers’ footsteps and take over, Michael said they’re all too young to know, but “that’s certainly a possibility.” The sentiment feels familiar as Michael nor John planned on it. Both went to college and had jobs in other fields before they joined forces at the store.
The Gee family members are not the only ones who had other aspirations for their life. Kady Gray Oczypok strolled into the Crestline location on a shopping trip with her grandmother the summer before her senior year of high school. She overheard a conversation about hiring and decided to apply on a whim.
“When I started at Pants Store in Crestline, I
thought I was going to be a pharmacist,” Oczypok said. “I was going to go to pharmacy school at Samford, but I just love retail so much. I love clothing, and I love that we can make money selling clothes, so my two loves combined.”
Oczypok has now worked for the only company she has ever known for almost 15 years.
She began her Pants Store journey as a shy 17-year-old retail associate, who found Michael “very intimidating,” and kept herself busy refolding tank tops when she did not have anything else to do. That shifted within her first month after Michael “scared the daylights out of [her]” by walking up and pointing out a man who needed help finding a shoe.
“I was a changed woman,” Oczypok said. “I was always interacting with customers where I used to be shy and scared to go talk to them.”
After another month, she began running the store on Saturdays. In the spring, the Gees decided they would open a store near Michael and Oczypok’s alma mater. They wanted her to work there, and the decision was easy for her to keep a job in college. However, for her freshman year, that meant coming
home each weekend until the Tuscaloosa store opened in April.
Oczypok started going on trips to market in college and is now one of two buyers for the ladies’ side, which Michael said accounts for around 70 percent of the business. In addition to that, she also spearheads the e-commerce, social media and marketing team.
“At the end of the day, Kady is probably one of my bosses now,” Michael said.
When the Gee brothers purchased Pants Store in 2006, they took over a single store with 56 years behind it. The next year they opened the Crestline location, followed by Tuscaloosa in 2011, Huntsville in 2017, Auburn and Hoover in 2022. Just earlier this year, they opened their first out-of-state location, where John went to college, in Oxford, Mississippi According to Michael, it is the final Pants Store location.
“We don’t want to grow too large and become too corporate and lose sight of what we want to do and who we are,” Michael said. “We feel like at seven locations we’re able to maintain who we are and what we want to do and keep a thumb on what our customer wants and needs.”
In the ever-changing fashion industry, not only do their wants and needs change, but over time their primary customer has evolved. When Taylor opened his doors in 1950, he primarily served working men, who dressed up much more than they do today. Over the years, Pants Store clientele has become more and more female as men like Michael are less apt to seek out new clothes if their existing ones fit and look nice.
“If it wasn’t for our women’s business, I’m not sure we would still be in business,” Michael continued.
Oczypok elaborated that while the target customer is female, they have to keep in mind the different shopping preferences among women. Stores like Leeds see many moms, who shop not only for themselves, but also for the entire family.
Meanwhile, the Tuscaloosa, Auburn and Oxford locations see huge boosts from college girls prepping for sorority recruitment and game days.
In all this, Michael said the key to success in their business is the willingness to adapt. In just the couple of decades since he and his brother took over, they have seen two major shifts in addition to constant stylistic changes. The year 2007 started the decline in T-shirts adorned with script A’s and the rise of crimson blouses and houndstooth skirts in what Michael called, “the Nick Saban effect.” On the
contrary, 2020 saw all other outfits become more casual as people stayed home and relied more on comfort.
“Fashion is ever-changing, and so you just try and keep up with the times the best way possible,” Michael said.
Even in more consistent industries, not much stays the same over the course of three-quarters of a century, but one thing has remained constant in the Gees’ business.
“It all boils down to customer service and helping your customer and listening to your customer and giving them what they need because the customer is the lifeblood of our business, and that will never change,” Michael said.
The original Pants Store is located at 8029 Parkway Drive in Leeds. It is open MondaySaturday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. For information on their other locations or to shop online, visit pantsstore.com, or follow them on social media.
Who’s the best? We asked, and you answered. Thousands of votes were cast in Leeds Living’s annual contest. Read on to find out our readers’ favorites in Leeds.
Photos by Michaela Bankston and Contributed
BEST NEW BUSINESS (OPEN ONE YEAR OR LESS)
The Burrow Bookstore
COMMUNITY
BEST CITY PARK
Leeds Memorial Park leedsalabama.gov 205-699-2585
BEST LOCAL CAUSE
The Red Barn theredbarn.org 205-699-8204
Runners Up: Knights of Columbus Leeds Council #5597, Something Hope-Filled
BEST LOCAL FESTIVAL
Creek Bank Festival creekbankfestival.com 205-699-5001
Runner Up: Grand RiverFest
BEST MUSEUM
Barber Motorsports Park and Museum
barberracingevents.com 205-699-7275
Runner Up: Bass House Museum
BEST PASTOR
Dr. Steven Weems - First
Baptist Church fbcleeds.org 205-699-6141
Runners Up: Pastor Billy AbramsCedar Grove Baptist Church, Pastor Chris Stallings - Leeds First Methodist Church
BEST PLACE FOR A FAMILY OUTING
The Backyard backyardleeds.com 205-352-9180
Runner Up: Leeds Memorial Park
BEST PLACE FOR A KID’S BIRTHDAY PARTY
The Backyard backyardleeds.com 205-352-9180
Runners Up: Leeds Memorial Park, The Livery Event Center
BEST PLACE OF WORSHIP
First Baptist Church fbcleeds.org 205-699-6141
Runners Up: Leeds First Methodist Church, Cedar Grove Baptist Church
BEST CITY PARK
Leeds Memorial Park
BEST PUBLIC SCHOOL
Leeds Primary School leedsk12.org/Domain/8 205-702-2300
Runners Up: Leeds High School, Leeds Middle School
BEST BAKERY
Suga Mama’s Bakery facebook.com (Suga Mama’s Bakery) 256-503-3341
Runners Up: Five Loaves Micro Bakery, The Three Earred Rabbit
BEST BARBECUE
Rusty’s Bar-B-Q rustysbarbq.com 205-699-4766
Runner Up: Saw’s BBQ
BEST BEER SELECTION
Rails & Ales railsandales.beer 205-352-0365
Runner Up: Neighbors Brewing Co - The Backyard
BEST BURGER
Rusty’s Bar-B-Q rustysbarbq.com 205-699-4766
Runners Up: Saw’s BBQ, The Three Earred Rabbit
BEST CASUAL RESTAURANT
The Backyard backyardleeds.com 205-352-9180
Runners Up: China Wok, The Three Earred Rabbit
BEST CATERER
Rusty’s Bar-B-Q rustysbarbq.com 205-699-4766
Runner Up: The Three Earred Rabbit
BEST COCKTAILS
Neon Moon Lounge theneonmoonloungeofleeds.com
Runner Up: The Central Club
BEST DATE NIGHT RESTAURANT
Mangos Cantina & Grill mangoscantina.com 205-702-0100
Runner Up: Izumi
BEST ETHNIC DINING
China Wok chinawokleedsal.com 205-702-6248
Runners Up: Mangos Cantina & Grill, Guerrero Mexican Grill
BEST KID-FRIENDLY DINING
The Backyard backyardleeds.com 205-352-9180
Runner Up: Mangos Cantina & Grill
BEST LUNCH SPOT
The Three Earred Rabbit threeearred.com 205-702-6109
Runners Up: The Backyard, Teriyaki Express
BEST MARGARITA
El Cazador elcazadoralabama.com 205-699-1655
Runner Up: Mangos Cantina & Grill
BEST PATIO DINING
The Backyard backyardleeds.com 205-352-9180
Runner Up: El Cazador
BEST PIZZA
The Backyard backyardleeds.com 205-352-9180
Runner Up: Pizza Hut
BEST SWEET TREATS
Suga Mama’s Bakery facebook.com (Suga Mama’s Bakery) 256-503-3341
Runner Up: The Three Earred Rabbit
BEST CHIROPRACTIC CARE PRACTICE
Leeds Family Chiropractic leedsfamilychiropractic.com 205-699-6600
Runner Up: Walch Chiropractic Center PC
BEST DANCE/GYMNASTICS STUDIO
Dancing with Dani
BEST DENTAL PRACTICE
Peterson Dental peterson-dental.com 205-699-1155
Runners Up: Koplon Implant & Family Dentistry, Michelle Davis Dental
BEST DOCTOR
Dr. Stephen Russell - UAB Medicine uabmedicine.org 205-699-0729
Runners Up: Dr. Adam KoplonKoplon Implant & Family Dentistry, Dr. Scott Koplon - Koplon Implant & Family Dentistry
BEST FITNESS CENTER
Workout Anytime workoutanytime.com 205-702-2789
Runner Up: CrossFit Righteous
BEST ORTHODONTICS PRACTICE
Koplon Implant & Family Dentistry koplondmd.com 205-236-1562
Runner Up: PT Orthodontics
BEST PEDIATRIC DENTAL PRACTICE
Peterson Dental peterson-dental.com 205-699-1155
Runners Up: Koplon Implant & Family Dentistry, Michelle Davis Dental
BEST PHARMACY
Mills Pharmacy millspharmacies.com 205-699-5195
Runner Up: Patterson Pharmacy
BEST PHYSICAL THERAPY PRACTICE
TherapySouth therapysouth.com 205-699-1220
Runners Up: Drayer Physical Therapy Institute, Encore
BEST COCKTAILS
Neon Moon
BEST SPA
Posh Salon, Spa and Barbers poshsalonspaandbarbers. glossgenius.com 205-415-7536
Runner Up: Health Art Massage
BEST ANTIQUE STORE
Yellowhammer Antiques yellowhammerantiques.com 205-702-0109
Runners Up: Grand River Pickers, Bama Flea Mall & Antique Center
BEST AUTO SERVICE
Brenton’s Automotive brentonsautomotive.com 205-699-5156
Runner Up: Murray’s Garage Inc.
BEST BANK Millennial Bank millennial.bank 205-702-2265
Runner Up: Regions Bank
BEST BARBER SHOP Kut/Ups Hair & Nail Salon 205-699-6245
Runners Up: Posh Salon, Spa and Barbers, Maq’s On Main Barbershop
BEST BOUTIQUE
Mum & Me Mercantile mumandmeleeds.com 205-702-6677
Runners Up: 49th & Magnolia, Pants Store
BEST CHILDCARE
Great Beginnings Learning Center preschoollife.net 205-699-1023
BEST CONSIGNMENT STORE
Grand River Pickers grandriverpickers.com 256-504-2606
Runners Up: Something HopeFilled, Yellowhammer Antiques
BEST CREDIT UNION
AmFirst Federal Credit Union amfirst.org 205-699-2091
BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE
Chick-fil-A chick-fil-a.com 205-699-1118
Runners Up: AmFirst Federal Credit Union, The Burrow Bookstore
BEST DANCE/GYMNASTICS STUDIO
Dancing with Dani facebook.com (Dancing with Dani)
Runner Up: Beverly’s Dance
BEST LUNCH SPOT
The Three-Eared Rabbit
BEST ELECTRICAL SERVICE
Poe Electric Inc. poeelectric.com 205-640-1746
Runner Up: Firefly Electrical LLC
BEST FINANCIAL ADVISING GROUP
AmFirst Federal Credit Union amfirst.org 205-699-2091
Runners Up: Cahawba Financial Inc., Leeds CPA LLC
BEST FINANCIAL ADVISOR
Cahawba Financial Inc. cahawbafinancial.com 205-699-3500
Runner Up: AmFirst Federal Credit Union
BEST GIFT SHOP
Grand River Pickers grandriverpickers.com 256-504-2606
Runners Up: The Burrow Bookstore, Mum & Me Mercantile
BEST HVAC SERVICE
Tri-Counties Heating & Air Services
tricountiesheatingandair.com 205-699-6088
Runners Up: Standard Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, Guin Service LLC
BEST KIDS’ CLOTHING STORE
Mum & Me Mercantile (tie) mumandmeleeds.com 205-702-6677
The Grumpy Princess (tie) facebook.com (The Grumpy Princess Boutique for Women and Children) 205-699-0411
BEST LAW FIRM
Barnes & Barnes Law Firm PC facebook.com (Barnes & Barnes Law Firm, P.C.) 205-699-5000
Runner Up: Brunson Barnett & Sherrer PC
BEST LOCAL INSURANCE AGENCY
Scott Pellowski State Farm Insurance Agency scottpellowski.com 205-699-5139
Runners Up: Alfa Insurance, Franklin Insurance Group
BEST LOCAL INSURANCE AGENT
Kristin Nickles - Alfa Insurance facebook.com (Kristin Nickles-Alfa Insurance) 205-957-3374
Runners Up: Caleb Busby - Bridgeway Insurance, Scott PellowskiState Farm
BEST LOCAL PHOTOGRAPHER
Brittany Hackleman Photography facebook.com/brittanyhacklemanphotography 205-807-7626
Runner Up: Amber Helms Photography
BEST MORTGAGE GROUP
Casey Parsons Team - Guild Mortgage facebook.com/Guildiseverywhere 205-209-2725
Runners Up: Kristi G. Scott Group, AmFirst Federal Credit Union
BEST NAIL SALON
Kut/Ups Hair & Nail Salon 205-699-6245
Runner Up: Posh Salon, Spa and Barbers
BEST NEW BUSINESS (OPEN ONE YEAR OR LESS) The Burrow Bookstore 205-500-0711 theburrowbookstore.com
Runners Up: 49th & Magnolia, Yellowhammer Antiques
BEST PLUMBING SERVICE
Plumb One plumbone.com 205-352-9010
Runners Up: Guin Service LLC, Standard Heating, Cooling & Plumbing
BEST REMODELER
Curtis White Companies Inc. curtiswhitecompanies.com 205-699-2283
Runner Up: Blair Homes
BEST SPECIALTY STORE
Grand River Pickers grandriverpickers.com 256-504-2606
Runners Up: The Burrow Bookstore, Yellowhammer Antiques
BEST STORE FOR HOME FURNISHINGS/DECOR
Grand River Pickers grandriverpickers.com 256-504-2606
Runners Up: Yellowhammer Antiques, 49th & Magnolia
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Dr. Swag
DRYmedic Restoration Services
Trussville
Vision First Eye Center
La Antojerio Snack Bar N More LLC
Vulcan Telecom
49th & Magnolia
The Lioce Group BBB
Vick Accounting
Alabama Mineral & Lapidary Society
We’re ready to partner with you
To support your business
To support your community
To support your schools
As your information bureau
As your business resource
As your liaison between city government and the business community
Yellowhammer Antiques Opens in Downtown Leeds
The Leeds Area Chamber of Commerce and the City of Leeds are proud to welcome Yellowhammer Antiques to the heart of historic downtown. A ribbon cutting ceremony was held at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, October 22 at their charming new location, 8430 1st Ave. SE. Owned by Erica and Andrew Spray, Yellowhammer Antiques brings a curated selection of vintage finds and timeless treasures to the Leeds community. Stop by and show your support for this exciting new addition to the local business scene!
49th & Magnolia
The City of Leeds and the Leeds Area Chamber of Commerce proudly celebrated the grand opening of 49th & Magnolia with an official ribbon cutting ceremony on Friday, April 11, 2025. Leeds Mayor David Miller had the honor of cutting the ribbon alongside store owners Kenneth and Joanie Davis, surrounded by a host of Chamber Board Members, local business professionals, and community supporters.
Hello! I’m Amy Lee, the new executive director for the Leeds Area Chamber of Commerce. I’m the person who laughs a little too loudly, loves savoring good food and can’t resist a live music show—because life’s too short not to enjoy the little moments.
Growing up Hmong has shaped the way I approach life and work. I was raised in a close-knit community where family, tradition and connection were at the core of everything we did. These values guide me in my professional journey, as I’ve worked in various roles from childcare services to marketing coordination, always with a focus on building meaningful connections and making people feel heard.
As Maya Angelou wisely said, “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” This philosophy drives me to create positive, lasting relationships—whether I’m leading a team or engaging with community members.
I’m constantly seeking new ways to give back and make a meaningful impact. I’m thrilled to step into this role and excited for what lies ahead. Together, I’m confident we can continue to build a vibrant, supportive Chamber that fosters success and connection for all.
June – August Food Truck Mondays
June - August Monthly Movie Nights
Scheduled movies to play: Princess & The Frog (June 6), Mufasa (July 11), and The Wild Robot (August 1)
June 28 10:00-11:00 AM – Kiddie Day Parade and Water Wars at Park
October 7 5:00-8:00 PM – National Night Out
October 23 11:00-1:00 PM – Chamber Member Appreciation Cookout
October 31 3:00-5:00 PM Downtown Trick or Treat
On Friday, March 7 at the The Livery Event Center, Main Street Leeds held its first Mardi Gras-themed casino night, which they plan to hold annually.
1. Keith and Tracy Brasher and Bobbie and Eric Brasher
2. Eddie and Deborah Moore
3. Tyler and Tiffiany Ward and Hayden and Fletcher Bell
4. Ryan and Lindsay Miller
5. Ronald and Erika Miller
6. Melissa Grant, Lantis and Erin Hollis and Julie Hubbard
7. Judith “JJ” and Buddy Jones
8. Mary Washington and Devoris Ragland-Pierce
9. Cary and Jessica Kennedy and John Moore
10. Paul and Tonya Jameson
11. Tiffiany Ward, Amber Yeackle and Kristy Biddle
12. Heather Conn and Brandy Conn
13. Pete and Amanda Pritchard
14. Mike and Amy Coots
15. Lauren Burdette and Jennie Kruse
16. Christy Bartee and Suzanne Anderson
17. Ashley Reed and Vonteruis Oden
18. Ethan and Evan Kennedy
BY AMANDA PRITCHARD
On Saturday, March 22 at The Livery Event Center, the Leeds Area Chamber of Commerce held the DaddyDaughter Western Party for young girls and their dads or other relatives to make memories dancing, playing games and other activities.
1. Dona Bonnet, Casey Parsons, Steve Karr, Amy Lee and Jeannie Cole
2. Adeline Snider and Devin Lanier
3. Adaline Corbin, Maggie Carden and Harley Tittle
4. Bruce and Khloe Harbin
5. Drew and Lily Barnwell
6. Eric and Mazzy Watters
7. Giana and Jason Williams
8. Harley and Greg Martin
9. Tymberland and Cordelia Glenn
10. Janna Joyner and Amy Lee
11. Jarrod and Paisley Posey
12. Journey and Kevin Patterson
13. June and Ruby Armstrong and Phillip Stoppelli
14. Kennedy and Wesley Lowman
15. Marlaiyah and Malcolm Johnson
16. Nevaeh and Gaitlin Roberson
17. Nick and Harley Tittle, Mitch and Maggie Carden and Brandon and Adaline Corbin
18. Olivia and Zachary Rushen
On Friday, April 4, Leeds Youth Baseball & Softball held their opening ceremonies followed by a full day of games on opening day, Saturday, April 5 at Leeds Youth Baseball and Softball Complex.
1. Kadence White and Molly and Posey Rutledge
2. Steven and Lou Hansen
3. Ward Pellowski, Talulah Walker and Bayleigh Kirkpatrick
4. Paisley Jordan and Jepplin Dunnavant
5. Courtney and Charlie Partridge
6. Audrey Raines, Rylee Haden, Harper Jones and Harper White
7. Dr. Mia Ward and Terry Gainer
8. Cody Schubert, Kannon Mason, Daylon Davis and Will Jones
9. Josslyn Bearden and Tessa Woods
10. Layna Joiner, Jennie Kruse, Ryleigh Harper and Emma Kate Burdette
11. Amelia Crew, Khloe Harbin and Alleigh DeRoy
12. Derek and Andrea Freeman
13. Mary Beth, Lottie and Louie Lochridge
14. Jordyn Turner and Lauren Burdette
15. Jordyn, Jesse and James Turner
BY
On Saturday, April 12 on Seventh Street, Leeds Main Street hosted Market on Main, featuring local vendors and food trucks.
1. Amelia Dixon, Bella Attaway and Addy Wisdom
2. Kaitlyn and Jake Brechin
3. David, Will, Margaret and Tatum Winters
4. Jennie Kruse and Dennis Williams
5. Teresa and Barry Simmons
6. Lauren and Emmy Burdette and Courtney and Charlie Partridge
7. John and Lisa O’Neil
8. Jennifer Freind and Alanna and Draven Maddox
9. Sarah Smith
10. Kailee Gilchrist, Isabella Guevara, Kelsi Quinn and Bo
11. Olivia Scott, Trace DePew, Noah Scott and Winnie
12. Ellie and Abbie Ash
13. Nate and Sara Berkley, Shauna Cleveland and Daisy Mae
14. Nicole Craft and Hunter Bannister
15. Jeanne Warren, Catherine Dawson and Rosco
PHOTOS BY MICHAELA BANKSTON
On Saturday, April 12 throughout Downtown Leeds, Leeds Trails & Tours hosted its annual walking tour, which highlighted Leeds in the 1950s.
1. Patsy Jo Young, Aiden Joiner as Elvis, Debbie Moore and Joan Garn
2. Kara, Sara, Macy and Milly Tomlin
3. Susan, Makaley and Ron Howard
4. Robert and Cathy Perry
5. Michelle and Lydia Owen as Nora and Margie Becker
6. Clyde Adams, Susan Carswell and Randy Ray as Skip Griffin
7. Tom Becker and Terry King
8. Rita Bolen and Rene Faulkner
9. Aiden Joiner as Elvis
10. Lisa Musgrove Kyle and Susan Musgrove Nelms as Ruby Whitmire
11. Amy Lee and Casey Parsons
12. Will Sievert and Sue Campbell Sievert
13. Kaki and Jerry Childers
14. Rex and Rory McDonald and Shelly Ann Edge as Gertrude Forehand Hathcox
15. Terry and Betty King
16. Debbie Street Childers as Jane Spruiell Hooton and Margaret Brabham Little as Jessie Ryan
On Saturday, April 12 near Downtown Leeds, Hope-Filled Rooms, an organization that helps women who have been trafficked, held its second annual cornhole tournament fundraiser.
1. Steve Fox and Annette Wilson
2. Randy White and Jonathan Irby
3. Josiah and Noah Burdette
4. Robert Greene and Jake Brechin
5. Michael and Tracy Jensen
6. Tony and Kelli Davis and Reese Sullivan
7. Jane Watkins and Chelsea Gravois
8. Chris Burdette and J.D. Perry
9. Alyssa and Dyvonia Bussey
10. Mason and Greg Cardenas and Evelyn and Hadley Kent
11. Jeff Dolce and Jason Vandiver
12. Amanda, Heidi and Adley Burdette
13. Chauna McKinney, Holley Pugh and Debbie Burdette
Owner of Guardian Systems Inc., L. A. Salon and Boutique and The Livery Event Center
Photos by Dona Bonnett and Lacey Barnwell
The Soda Fountain and Roxy Theater
We would take a weekly shopping trip when the main street was full of hustle and bustle of people who worked hard all week and gathered downtown to shop and linger on the street to visit with each other. I would always listen to the conversations and wait patiently for my turn to get a treat from the soda fountain at Miller Drug and the possibility of going to the movie at Roxy Theater. I would work hard to earn 25 cents, so I could get my movie ticket for 15 cents and have 10 cents left over for a soda and candy bar. The memories of growing up in small town Leeds are a treasure.
If I am in the mood for something sweet and sinful, it has to be the Three Earred Rabbit. If it is just good food, Rusty’s Catering menu is great, and of course, do not disallow El Cazador or Mango’s.
I cannot pick a favorite event because they are all wonderful and different. Starting with the Trails and Tours downtown walking tour to the Creek Bank Festival as well as the downtown summer movie nights and the Christmas Tree Lighting and The Christmas Parade. There is so much about Leeds to enjoy. The wonderful people that live here and care about each other are the very best.
Leeds Walking Track
I enjoy the Leeds Walking Track because my thoughts are my own. It is a great place to escape and a good stress reliever.
The most sentimental place for me is the old Hagwood Hotel. When I was a child, my mom would tell me that she and my dad spent their honeymoon night there in August 1934.
