Savage's Bakery Rises Again: A Community's Relief

0:00I'm Corey, and this is your Pulse of the City, Birmingham News Today. Savage's bakery in Homewood, Alabama, a spot open since 1939, shut down on February 6th when its owner retired. Now, new owner, Kenneth Rhodes, plans to bring it back to life on March 16th. Rhodes, who runs O'Cars deli nearby, bought the place to keep his traditions going while making sure it thrives. The closure hit hard for folks like 65-year-old Baker Ben Cook, who started their age 19 and had no other skills. He ended up taking a tough job at the airport, walking miles daily and wearing down his body just to pay bills. Rhodes reached out right away to cook and the other original staff, rehiring nearly all of them, 10 out of 11. He's even added a couple new hires, growing the team beyond what it was before. Cook says it's a huge relief to return to baking. His lifelong trade, especially since other bakeries aren't hiring much or paying as well. For him, it means steady work in the only job he knows.

1:02Rhodes wants to expand with more delivery options and services for local businesses, open Monday through Saturday, adding an extra day. His goal is long-term success that supports the community and keeps everyone employed. Quick thanks to Today's sponsor. See the description for more. No earbuds, no headbands, no awkward sleeping positions, just a pillow that plays your sound. S-O-L-I-SOLYPILLOW.COM