By Sarah Kuper
The Homewood City Schools Foundation will host its fourth annual fall band jam on Nov. 9 at Good People Brewing Company. The event is called “Grateful Dads” because the live entertainment is provided by two local bands that feature Homewood dads.
The band 3 Legged Dog includes Homewood dads Danny Whitsett, Chris Hoke, Brian McCool, Bret Estep and Tony Oliver. While their sound is more rock and roll, band members say they will play familiar favorites at Grateful Dads.
Matt Stephens is a Homewood dad and the drummer in the BHP’s, which is the other band performing. He said the band covers everyone from Bob Dylan and the Allman Brothers to REM and the Talking Heads.
McCool, who plays bass guitar in 3 Legged Dog, said that when the Grateful Dads event began four years ago, he was surprised at how many dads shared the same story.
“Once upon a time, before raising our children here in Homewood, we chased down our rock and roll dreams by playing in various bands in the Southeast,” he said, “I guess the dream dies hard, so many of us are still in bands that perform around Birmingham or get called upon to play at events like Grateful Dads.”
Aside from their shared love of music and entertaining, members of both bands say they participate because they want to ensure Homewood City Schools continue their reputation for excellence.
“Undoubtedly the school system in Homewood is a crown jewel,” McCool said.
“The more support we can provide to their education through money, time and awareness gives us all a common bond through which we can improve our kids’ education,” Stephens said.
Food will be provided at the event by Little Donkey.
McCool said the local support from the business community makes the event special.
“This is a fantastic event with the location and beer and catered food all provided by Homewood residents,” he said.
Plus, Stephens said it is just a fun night out.
“I would explain it as a very social, laid-back fundraiser where you can come see your friends and neighbors channel their inner rock star,” he said.
Money raised through this event and by the Homewood City Schools Foundation goes toward grant programs at all five Homewood schools.
Tickets are $30 and can be purchased through the Homewood City Schools Foundation website or from a board member.
To learn more, visit homewoodcityschoolsfoundation.com.
