June 2025 | Volume 16 | Issue 1
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THE NEW PLAYBOOK For aspiring recruits like Homewood’s George Finch, the new landscape of college sports creates uncertainty. Photo by Richard Force.
The college sports market has changed — and high school athletes are paying the price. As NIL money and transfer culture reshape recruiting, Sports Editor Kyle Parmley examines how even the best local players are dealing with new challenges. See THE NEW PLAYBOOK | page 22
Creekside or crisis? Samford’s development plan divides Homewood By SARAH OWENS Samford University’s proposed Creekside development has sparked fierce debate in Homewood, with public hearings scheduled for June 9. If you haven’t heard about the plan after four community conversations, several city meetings and increased public outcry, you might be the only Homewood resident still living under a rock — right alongside the city’s protected spotted salamanders. These elusive amphibians kickstarted a heated debate over the university’s ambitious expansion plans.
The proposed mixed-use development includes retail, office space, a hotel and Samford-affiliated housing. The plan is designed to complement Shades Creek and the nearby greenway. But with plans for a 10-story hotel, more than 400 housing units, new athletic facilities and millions in financial incentives, concerns about environmental impact, traffic and even the future of the Homewood Soccer Club have stirred widespread community debate. Concerns about the Creekside East salamander habitat initially drew public outcry, prompting developers to revise their plans. A proposed
INSIDE
Sponsors.............................4 City.......................................6
athletic facility for Samford’s soccer and track programs was removed from the site to preserve the natural environment. However, the new suggested location — city-owned land off South Lakeshore Drive, currently used by the Homewood Soccer Club — sparked backlash. The idea was floated as a potential partnership at an April 28 press conference. But many interpreted it as a formal proposal. The Homewood Soccer Club quickly issued a statement opposing the plan and stating it had not been consulted.
See CREEKSIDE | page 23 Schoolhouse.......................8 Business.............................12
Landmark Development CEO Bob Dunn, left, and Samford University President Beck Taylor announced a proposed change to the Creekside development at a press conference on April 28. Photo by Sarah Owens.
Events.................................14 Sports.................................17
Community.......................20 facebook.com/thehomewoodstar
New Leadership
Summer Fun
Ashley McCullars named new principal of Edgewood Elementary.
Explore ways to have fun and stay cool in Homewood all summer long.
See page 10
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