We sought out some of our favorite downtown personalities who always seem to have a smile on their face. From shaking up delicious drinks to serving the best cup of coffee to belting out a melody that lifts everyone's spirits, these men have personalities that make our city shine.
Heiko Friedrich
Where were you born? Westminster, Colorado
How long have you worked at Beezr? 2 years, 3 months
Who was/is the most influential person in your life? My dad
What drew you to the service industry? When I moved back to Huntsville in 2022, my friend informed me BeeZr was hiring and told me it would be a good place to work and meet people. Beezr has given me purpose and roots here in Huntsville.
It is a good day when... I see our guests enjoying themselves on our beautiful patio or inside the taproom with their family and friends, this makes me extremely happy.
What is your favorite hobby? Leisurely walks through Twickenham
What is your favorite memory? My friend Clara planned a trip for us to New Orleans. We brunched at Dickey Brennan's Tableau, sipped a Sazerac at Hotel Monteleone's Carousel Bar, rode the streetcar uptown for a cup of crawfish étoufée at Superior Seafood, and enjoyed Pat O's dueling piano bar.
What do you value most and why? Honesty, it is essential for building relationships both professionally and personally.
And finally, what is your favorite drink and entree at BeeZr? My favorites are our handcrafted frapuccino martini and my current favorite dish is our Argét gumbo.
Alton Conwell
Where were you born and raised? I was born and raised here in Huntsville, Alabama; on the campus of Oakwood University (formerly Oakwood College.)
Favorite childhood memory. My parents would take me out for a drive on Saturday afternoons up to Green Mountain.
When did you discover your singing voice? I’ve been singing for as long as I've been talking; but I really never found my true voice until I became an adult and started taking voice lessons.
What prompted you to follow your passion for music? Music has been a part of my family for generations. My great-grandmother was a minister of music at her church; my grandparents have been in singing groups; my mother was a part of the Aeolians of Oakwood University; and my uncle is a part of the world-renowned, grammy award winning, acapella group “Take 6.”
Who is your biggest mentor and why? I have to shout my parents out because if it wasn’t for them, I wouldn’t be where I am. If I had to choose my biggest mentor, it would have to be my voice teacher; Dr. Julie Moore-Foster; professor and chair of the Oakwood University Music Department.
It’s a difficult day when? It’s hard when you don’t feel like yourself. There are days when I feel lonely and days when don’t feel like moving.
It’s a good day when? There’s positivity in the air, and happy, upbeat songs playing on my playlist.
Caleb Setzer
Where were you born?
Columbus, Georgia, my parents were stationed at Fort Benning.
How long have you worked at Honest?
I've been with Honest since August 2018.
Who was the most influential person in your life?
I'd have to say that my Dad has to be one of the most influential people in my life. His views on leadership and how he leads and interacts with his staff at work has always been different to what I've seen in other leaders throughout my life.
What drew you to the service industry?
I started working at a small coffee shop while I was in college and while I was there I discovered how much I enjoy working and interacting with people and finding something that they'll enjoy. I also love being able to connect with so many parts of the community.
It is a good day when...
It's cool (preferably rainy) and we've opened the garage door at the shop.
It is a bad day when...
I don't get the opportunity to have coffee in the morning.
Favorite memory?
My favorite memory is from a few years ago when I did a cycling tour and rode my bike down the southern coast of California over 5 days.
What do you value most and why?
I really value the relationships in my life. I think growing with people and sharing life is one of the most important things in life.
And finally, what is your favorite coffee drink? Also, have you always loved coffee?
I remember stealing sips out of my parents' coffee cups as a kid and the first time I had a pour over on a trip while visiting a friend. From a cup of drip from Waffle House to a cappuccino at a local shop, There's something about the whole experience that I enjoy. However, as much as I like coffee in all its forms, you'll most likely catch me drinking a black iced coffee every morning.
David Ramos
Where were you born?
Chihuahua, Mexico
Tell me about your childhood, what was the best part?
Spending time with my family
How long have you worked at La Eqsuina.
2 1/2 years
Who was the most influential person in your life?
My mom
What drew you to the service industry?
I have always wanted to be a bartender.
It is a good day when...
I have a great shift at work.
It is a bad day when...
it is slow.
What is your favorite hobby?
I love to cook.
What is your favorite memory?
My favorite memories are of the holidays with family when I was a child.
What do you value most and why?
My mom
And finally, what is your favorite drink to make?
I love making margaritas.
Honesty, it is essential for building relationships both professionally and personally.
Music has been a part of my family for generations.
I think growing with people and sharing life is one of the most important things in life.