FOOTBALL SEASON
High school football season kicks off this month. 12
Bruno takes center stage at Cahaba Elementary. 10
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Editor’s Note By Kyle Parmley
August feels like a beginning.
The calendar says January is the new year, but for families in our community, the real reset comes when backpacks get loaded and school hallways fill back up. For some students, that means the comfort of familiar faces. For others, it means a brandnew school and all the nerves and excitement that come with it.
And then there is football. The sound of shoulder pads on a practice field means summer is winding down and those special Friday nights are almost here.
August has a way of pulling a community back together. Parents are at pickup lines
and open houses. Stadiums will start filling up soon. The rhythms that define our towns from September through May are cranking back to life.
Let us know what’s going on in your part of town. Story ideas, events, new businesses — we want to hear from you. Feel free to shoot me an email at kparmley@starnesmedia.com.
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ON THE COVER: Trussville City Schools announced the selection of Jennifer Bruno as Cahaba Elementary School’s next principal. Photo by Shawn Bowles.
CITY
I-59 northbound ramps at Chalkville Mountain Road reopen in Trussville
By STAFF
The Alabama Department of Transportation has reopened the Interstate 59 northbound ramps at Chalkville Mountain Road (Exit 141) in Trussville, ahead of the contractor’s deadline.
Traffic began flowing on the reopened exit and entrance ramps June 26, according to ALDOT. The ramps had been closed since May 18 as part of the ongoing I-59 widening project.
Contractor Wiregrass Construction Co. was incentivized to reopen the ramps within 40 days of the closure and did so ahead of schedule, ALDOT said.
“ALDOT appreciates the contractor’s diligence to reopen the ramps quickly to minimize the impact of the ongoing I-59 enhancements,” the department said in a release.
The May closure marked a key phase in widening I-59 to three lanes in each direction between the Interstate 459 interchange and Exit 141. When the ramps closed, ALDOT also shifted I-59 northbound traffic onto the left two lanes to allow crews to work on the outside lane, creating a temporary traffic pattern for vehicles merging from I-459 north onto I-59 north.
Wiregrass Construction now has about three months
remaining to open the widened I-59 northbound lanes to their new three-lane configuration. Completing that work within the deadline would earn the contractor a $1 million incentive, ALDOT said. The company met similar incentivized deadlines last fall when it opened the I-59 southbound exit ramps and the widened southbound section of the interstate.
The overall project, valued at $70.37 million, is expected to be complete by early 2027, according to ALDOT.
ALDOT is encouraging motorists to use alternate routes and adjust arrival and departure times when possible near the project area while work continues.
Alabama Department of Transportation contributed to this report.
ALDOT has reopened the I-59 northbound ramps at Exit 141. Photos courtesy of Alabama Department of Transportation.
New private estate venue is where ‘Bridgerton meets Italy’ in Trussville
By KELLI S. HEWETT
The Conservatory at Crosswicks may look like it was built to be a wedding venue, but that wasn’t anybody’s plan.
A family-oriented bride and an enterprising wedding planner crossed paths on an unexpected journey of faith that led to its opening in December 2025.
The three-year-old east Trussville home and estate is already near booking capacity for the fall 2026 wedding season and about half booked for spring 2027.
With room for events with 10 to 500 guests, it offers something event planner and venue visionary Amanda Robbins says the local event venue market has been missing.
“I love a hidden gem, and that’s exactly what this is,” said Conservatory director Robbins, who also owns AMR Bridal & Event Planning. “This is not your average private estate. There’s something almost magical here, divine.”
She describes it as peaceful and uniquely European, different from Alabama’s many warehouse and barn event venues.
“It has Country French chateau vibes,” said Robbins, a Clay-area resident. “It’s like ‘Bridgerton’ meets Italy.”
The venture began when the Robbinses were hired by a future family member of the estate owners. She wanted to plan a wedding on the family property.
Amanda and Jordan Robbins, of AMR Bridal & Events, helped transition the private estate into The Conservatory at Crosswicks, a Bridgerton-style wedding and event venue that can hold up to 500 guests.
Photo by Kelli S. Hewett.
During that first on-site meeting, Robbins said she felt a “God thing” happen and decided to tell the owners that if they ever wanted to turn the home into a business, she’d serve as director and walk them through it.
“They had just had a vision for a place their family and friends would come, on a larger scale,” said Jordan Robbins, Amanda’s husband and business partner.
Two weeks later, the owners called back. Amanda and Jordan quickly went to work with paint and furniture changes
to optimize the space for events and weddings.
The essential elements were already in place. Separate wings function as an expansive bridal suite filled with natural light and a downstairs groom’s area “man cave” with darker tones, leather couches, a TV and a pool table.
Outside, multiple ceremony sites give photographers and couples variety, including four primary ceremony locations — five including a field — with a pavilion and greenhouse-courtyard area.
The greenhouse “conservatory” is a signature feature of the new event venue. Photo courtesy of Deborah Michelle Photography.
Business Happenings
NOW OPEN
JPMorganChase opened a new branch at 1941 Gadsden Highway as part of the company’s ongoing Alabama expansion plan, which involves tripling the number of Chase branches in Alabama by 2030. JPMorganChase has also committed to philanthropic funding to grow workforce training programs in Alabama’s manufacturing and energy sectors. The initiative is designed to help more Alabamians gain the skills needed for in-demand jobs. The Trussville location is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. 205-661-8448, chase.com
Simply Stuffed opened at 5030 Pinnacle Square, Suite 108, in The Pinnacle shopping center in Trussville. The retail store allows customers to create personalized stuffed animals by choosing from a variety of plush figures, outfits and accessories. Guests can also name their stuffed animals, print birth certificates and find other keepsakes. More than 75% of the stuffed animals are made from recycled fabrics in an effort to emphasize sustainability. Simply Stuffed also hosts birthday parties, school outings and other events. The store is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. They are closed on Sundays. 205-419-8011, simplystuffedplush.com
Einstein Bros. Bagels has opened at 1430 Gadsden Highway, Suite 100, in the former Starbucks location next to Pastry Art Bake Shoppe. Known for its bagels, Einstein Bros. Bagels also offers breakfast sandwiches, lunch, sweet treats, savory sides, specialty coffee, tea and other drinks. The eatery also has other locations in the state in Cahaba Heights, UAB, Hoover, Montevallo, Auburn, Mobile and Troy. 205-725-2565, einsteinbros.com
COMING SOON
Pop Donuts is planning to open a second location in Trussville later this year. Customer favorites include their fresh glazed, chocolate, vanilla and strawberry donuts. They also serve cinnamon rolls, bear claws and other bakery items. Their current location is at 1819 Center Point Parkway. 205-856-3980
After breaking ground in March, construction on Vapor Thrift Store is underway for the new location on Mary Taylor Road that’s set to open in the fall. Customers can shop, donate or volunteer at Vapor Thrift Store. The thrift store supports Vapor Ministries, which operates multiple ministry centers in multiple countries and provides clean water, meals and health services. Vapor Thrift Store also has locations in Westover, Vestavia, Greystone and Pell City. Their other stores are open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. vaporthrift.com
NEWS AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS
People’s Bank of Alabama was named in the Forbes list of America’s Best-In-State Banks 2026 for the fifth consecutive year. In partnership with Statista, a provider of market data and industry rankings, this recognition is based on an independent survey of thousands of U.S. consumers and publicly available reviews. Banks and credit unions are evaluated on key criteria including customer satisfaction, financial advice, digital services, terms and conditions, customer service and trust. Headquartered in Cullman, People’s Bank of Alabama serves North and Central Alabama. The Trussville branch is at 305 Main St. and open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. 205-661-6900, peoplesbankal.com
ANNIVERSARIES
TherapySouth is celebrating 20 years of serving communities across the South with physical therapy care. What started as a single clinic in 2006 has grown to serve communities throughout Alabama, Georgia and Mississippi. TherapySouth provides services including orthopedic physical therapy, hand therapy, pelvic health and wellness services. Their Trussville location is at 1483 Gadsden Highway, Suite 116, and is open Monday through Thursday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Friday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. 205-655-1921, therapysouth.com
Ironbody Training and Fitness, at 381 U.S. 11, recently celebrated its 11th anniversary. Jim and Judy McCallie started Ironbody as a gym community open to all ages and fitness levels. They offer equipment including battle ropes and pulleys, bungee ropes, barbells, free weights, rowing machines, yoga mats and blocks, gymnastics rings, weight machines and dumbbells. Ironbody is open Monday through Friday from 4-6 a.m. and 4-7 p.m., with daytime hours available by appointment only.
205-405-2975, ironbody-tf.com
It’s a Party is celebrating its 37th anniversary at 107 N. Chalkville Road. The family-owned balloon company offers custom-made designs to make occasions and events special, along with party supplies. They can create balloon designs including garlands, arches, circle arches, marquee letters and numbers, columns and other custom décor. It’s a Party offers balloon décor services for Trussville and nearby suburbs. The store is open Tuesday and Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Thursday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. 205-925-9541, itsapartystore.com
Barnett Furniture, at 6961 Gadsden Highway, is celebrating 66 years in business. The custom-order upholstery store is a third-generation, family-owned business where customers choose the style — including sofas, sectionals, recliners, chairs and ottomans — and type of fabric or leather for their furniture. Barnett Furniture is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 205-655-7049, barnettfurniture.com Do
Simply Stuffed
Pop Donuts
► ADDRESS: 5679 Carrington Lake Parkway
► BED/BATH: 4/4.5
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3,122 sq. ft.
► NEIGHBORHOOD: Carrington Lakes
$574,900
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► BED/BATH: 4/3
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BUSINESS
Growing more than lawns: A young entrepreneur’s success story
By DIANE POOLE
At age 15, homeschooled student Jeremiah Jennings began weed eating for a friend who owned a lawn-care business. When the friend graduated college and moved on, Jennings took over the small company, which then served about 20 customers.
Jennings attended Jefferson State Community College for a year while running the business full time. Realizing he was learning more in operating the company than he was in the classroom, he chose to focus on growing the business. Eight years later, Growing Green Landscapes employs five people and serves customers throughout the Trussville area.
Since then, Jennings has developed a leadership philosophy centered on his people.
“As I have learned leadership philosophy and been blessed to be in circles that I should never even be worthy of being in, learning from people who’ve led $100 million organizations, that if you build the people first,” Jennings said, “then the business will build itself.”
When Jennings started his business, the only service he offered was mowing. Now it is a full-service designbuild company, ranging from hardscapes and irrigation to
landscape lighting and holiday displays.
Of the jobs completed by Growing Green Landscapes, Jennings is most proud of one of his most recent jobs: a huge landscaping job at First Baptist Church Trussville.
“Very high visibility, a lot of stress, a lot of deadlines,” Jennings said. “It put a strain on our guys, and we pushed through and did it. It’ll be cool to look back on it in 20 years when all of [the greenery] is mature and say, ‘We installed that.’”
“My next big one,” Jennings continued, “will be when my first employee buys their house.”
Jennings is exploring a partnership with Hewitt-Trussville High School that would allow students to complete a summer apprenticeship and earn industry certifications.
“We have apprenticeship programs built this summer, and I hope to get those dialed in so in summer ’27 we can work with high school students to go through a 10-week program for certification in landscaping,” Jennings said.
“We don’t really look for talent much anymore,” Jennings said. “We look for a growth mindset, teachability, somebody that wants to come in and learn. Somebody that will just be a sponge and soak it up,” Jennings said.
For Jennings, success is measured by more than completed projects or company revenue. He hopes to create
Members of the Growing Green Landscapes team pause for a photo following a Christmas lights installation project. Photo courtesy of Growing Green Landscapes.
SCHOOLHOUSE
Where every child was celebrated: Remembering Joy Tyner
By APRIL COFFEY
There are schools where students simply attend. And then there are schools where children are celebrated, encouraged and loved.
Over the past decade, Cahaba Elementary School became that kind of place under the leadership of Principal Joy Tyner. She built more than a successful school — she built a culture where every child felt seen, every teacher felt inspired and every day was worth celebrating.
Shortly after retiring at the end of the 2025-26 school year, Tyner died June 30 at age 62, following a brief battle with neuroendocrine carcinoma.
In the days that followed, an outpouring of love from students, parents, teachers and colleagues stretched across Alabama and Mississippi, reflecting a career in education that spanned 39 years and touched thousands of lives.
For those who knew her, however, Tyner’s greatest accomplishment was never measured by awards or school report cards.
It was measured by the innumerable lives she touched.
“The absolute greatest thing about Cahaba Elementary is the culture,” Tyner told the Cahaba Sun during a 2024 interview. “When you walk in the doors of the school, it feels different. It’s a happy place. It’s an inclusive place, and we celebrate kids every single day. I love being here.”
She lived those words.
Tyner knew the names of the school’s more than 500 students. She celebrated birthdays and milestones. She rang a Mississippi State cowbell through the hallways whenever there was something worth cheering — which, in her mind, was often. She believed children only get one chance to be kids, and school should be filled with joy, belonging and unforgettable moments.
“Every day held something new and exciting,” Cahaba Elementary teacher Amanda Pennington told WBRC. “Whether it was a spur-of-the-moment plan or something she had pre-planned, Joy loved to celebrate life, learning, students. And you felt that when you walked in the building.”
Pennington said Tyner inspired teachers and students to accomplish more than they thought possible, while fellow teacher Sarah Jackson said she held students to high expectations because she loved them so deeply.
Tyner never expected education to become her life’s work.
She often joked she attended Mississippi State University “wanting to ring a cowbell,” not necessarily to become a teacher. But everything changed when she met her first classroom full of students.
“It wasn’t until I met my first class,” Tyner said. “They were the inspiration, and every year after that it’s the kids.”
After beginning her career in Mississippi classrooms, Tyner served as a teacher, assistant principal and principal before moving to Alabama in 2016 to become the founding principal of the newly reimagined Cahaba Elementary School.
Under her leadership, Cahaba consistently earned an A rating from the state and became one of Alabama’s topperforming elementary schools. Yet those who worked
alongside her rarely begin by talking about academics.
They talk about the atmosphere she created.
“The most rewarding part of this job is knowing that we’re the foundation,” Tyner told the Cahaba Sun. “We’re giving these students everything they need to be successful in the future, and it starts with celebrating them, letting them know they’re appreciated, setting high expectations and giving them opportunities to serve and learn leadership skills.”
Trussville City Schools Superintendent Patrick Martin said no one advocated harder for students.
“I cannot think of a bigger advocate for students and Cahaba Elementary School than Joy Tyner,” Martin said. “No one fought harder for students.”
That commitment is already becoming part of her legacy.
Just two days after Tyner’s death, the Trussville City Schools Board of Education voted to name Cahaba’s planned outdoor learning space the Joy Tyner Outdoor Classroom. Tyner had worked with the district’s architect to help design the area, envisioning a place where children could learn outdoors, unplug from technology and simply enjoy being kids.
Even in retirement, she was planning for students she would never meet.
Trussville Mayor Ben Short called Tyner “more than a principal.”
“She was a steady presence, a caring leader and a source of encouragement for countless students, parents, teachers and staff members,” Short wrote. “Her love for the children of Cahaba Elementary was evident in the way she led, the way she served and the way she made every child feel seen and valued.”
Her obituary, written by her family, described a woman whose Christian faith sustained her through profound personal loss, including the deaths of daughters Perry Tyner Tate and Molly Tyner Boland.
Former Trussville administrator Anjell Edwards said Tyner’s faith was evident to everyone who knew her.
“I remember admiring her strength as she dealt with personal loss and grief,” Edwards said. “I often observed her share about her unshakable faith in Christ.”
William Tyner, Joy’s husband of nearly 42 years, said the sign in Joy’s office read, “Work Hard and Be Nice.”
“It should have read, ‘Work Hard and Love Everyone,’” he wrote. “That was Joy Triggs Tyner.”
During her interview with the Cahaba Sun, Tyner reflected on the teacher who changed her life: her fifth grade teacher, Miss Norris.
“She told us we were brilliant,” Tyner said. “She told us we were the best, and I was a good writer, and I believed her. She empowered me to keep on and to think I was something special.”
For the thousands of children who walked through the doors of Cahaba Elementary, Joy Tyner spent the next four decades giving that same gift.
She built a school where children felt seen and celebrated and believed they could become something special. And that is undoubtedly the legacy that matters most.
Joy Tyner was the principal of Cahaba Elementary for a decade. Photo courtesy of Trussville City Schools.
Joy Tyner accepts a grant check from Alabama State Representative Danny Garrett in 2017. Photo courtesy of Danny Garrett.
Leading with love
Bruno takes center stage at Cahaba Elementary
By DIANE POOLE
As the new principal of Cahaba Elementary School, Jennifer Bruno brings 27 years of educational experience, a background in theater education and a philosophy centered on love, empathy and character development.
Growing up, Bruno loved science, and early on, she wanted to be an astronaut.
“I wanted to be an astronaut, and that was my dream,” Bruno said. “Science was my specialty, I guess, in school. I was good at science and some math, and I just loved it.
“I watched the Challenger disaster when we were home from school on a snow day and was just devastated,” Bruno said, “and then I found out that I couldn’t be an astronaut because I’m blind as a bat. So, it was kind of dream crushing.”
But science was still her favorite thing, and Bruno credits her attraction to teaching to a teacher named Cecilia Byrd. Bruno watched as Ms. Byrd modeled what it meant to be a teacher.
“I mean, just everything — from grading papers to a lot of the management and secretarial part of being a teacher that you don’t always learn,” Bruno recalled. “You always think you get to stand up and write on the board, and there’s a lot more to it than that.”
There was no “ah ha” moment when she knew she wanted to become a teacher. She taught stuffed animals as a little girl, and she also taught dance at a young age.
“I don’t think that you become a teacher,” Bruno said. “I think you were born to be a teacher.”
Bruno was set to be at Cahaba 10 years ago. Instead, she spent the past 10 years building the theater program at Hewitt-Trussville Middle School.
“I was actually supposed to be here,” Bruno said. “When Paine split, I was slated to come to Cahaba. So it just took me 10 years to get here, but this is where I was supposed to be.”
When Bruno first found out she had been selected as the new principal at Cahaba Elementary, she knew it was a big deal.
Bruno said, “My thoughts were, ‘I have big shoes to fill. I know for a school that has had only one principal, it’s hard to step into that role because I obviously cannot be a carbon copy of the person in front of me. I know change is hard because change is hard for me.’”
Patrick Martin, superintendent of Trussville City Schools, said Bruno’s skillset combination is rare.
“She’s very talented,” Martin said, “but what I found from her is she’s very humble. Sometimes finding those two sides of a personality is difficult … trying to find someone who’s
extremely talented, very confident in what they do but also very humble.”
Martin also said of her ability to connect with kids: “The students are just really drawn to her. She loves the process of teaching, and she loves kids.”
Of Bruno’s ability to follow the only principal Cahaba has ever known, Martin said, “Not many people could step in and have Joy Tyner as a predecessor. I think that Joy would be excited for Jennifer, and I think Jennifer can step in and do that. I think when talking about empathy and caring, the teachers are going to see from her exactly what her students have seen from her in a very successful career in education.”
At the heart of Bruno’s philosophy is a belief that relationships come first. She has one main goal in her role as a teacher and a principal.
“I want you to know that you were loved. Everything else will come,” Bruno said.
Her years in theater reinforced lessons she now hopes to instill throughout Cahaba Elementary: communication, empathy, teamwork, adaptability and learning to understand people whose perspectives differ from your own.
“Everything that I teach in a theater classroom is a realworld application, with the exception of stage directions,” Bruno said. “When you are learning to communicate, when you are learning to work together in an ensemble, when you have to get along with people, when you have to know that you’re not always going to get your way — all of those things — empathy.”
Bruno’s students feel a connection to her and enjoy a closeknit environment.
One of her former students, Harper Breaseale, confirmed that Bruno encourages empathy: “She teaches you lots of life skills and lessons about empathy and how you should think and put yourself in other people’s shoes.”
Harper said, “Mrs. Bruno felt more like a friend, and she wanted to know you on a deeper level … you could tell her
anything, and she would be interested.”
Harper also said, “In sixth grade, I never would have considered doing the show … she built up my confidence so much that I tried out for a solo and got that in eighth grade, and I never would have done that before.”
Bruno shared a real-world connection with her students.
Bruno said, “Every time that we would play a theater game, I would say, ‘How can you use this in class and on the stage? How can you use this in another classroom? How can you use this outside of this building?’”
Harper shared, “I saw the impact that she made on my life and other lives, and I just want to try to do the same thing and maybe become a teacher.”
Strengthening relationships is always a goal for Bruno. She wants to work together with parents, teachers and the community for the sake of the children.
“I will always, always do what I think is best for the children,” Bruno said.
Bruno spent 10 years building a theater program at HTMS, and it won’t be easy for her to leave the comfort of that place.
“Theater has been a part of my life in some form or fashion since I was 6, dance since I was 3,” Bruno recalled.
She continued with her hopes for her new role.
“I’ve asked them to be patient with me,” Bruno said. “I might not walk in here in my three-piece suit sounding all sophisticated. I like to speak with funny accents and be silly and sarcastic with the kids, and that’s the way that I show my love and the way that I behave with people. I don’t want to have to change that just because I have a new title.”
Jennifer Bruno and Hewitt-Trussville Middle School theater students inside Grand Central Terminal during a New York City trip. Photos courtesy of Jennifer Bruno.
Jennifer Bruno and students visit the Alice in Wonderland statue in Central Park.
Jennifer Bruno and Hewitt-Trussville Middle School theater students gather outside The Varsity in Atlanta during a competition trip.
Jennifer Bruno. Photo by Shawn Bowles.
UNDER THE LIGHTS HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW
Huskies leaning on young talent
By KYLE PARMLEY
Hewitt-Trussville High School enters the season younger than it has in years, but head coach Josh Floyd said the program is excited about the talent stepping into bigger roles.
“We’ve got some seniors that are really good players, they just haven’t had to be the guy yet,” Floyd said. “Now’s their chance.”
Last season ended 8-3 with a heartbreaking playoff loss after Hewitt-Trussville climbed to No. 1 in the Alabama Sports Writers Association poll for the first time since 1991.
The Huskies did it despite a rash of injuries. Freshman quarterback Jack Floyd stepped in and led the team through a three-game gauntlet against Vestavia Hills, Hoover and Hillcrest-Tuscaloosa, all ranked top-10 teams, winning all three before an injury of his own ended his season at Prattville.
“I don’t think it was our most talented team we’ve ever had, but I think they showed a ton of grit and fight,” Josh Floyd said.
Floyd pointed to a road win at Hoover as last year’s signature moment, a game the Huskies won despite what he called far from their cleanest performance. Hewitt-Trussville trailed most of the night before taking the lead late in the fourth quarter and getting defensive stops to close it out.
“It’s hard to go over there and win,” Floyd said. “Our guys just found a way.”
The coaching staff returns unchanged for another season. The region looks similar to a year ago, with Hillcrest departing and Spain Park entering, though Floyd said this year’s full schedule, including a non-region slate with Auburn, Hillcrest Tuscaloosa and Pike Road, is among the toughest he’s faced. Hewitt-Trussville opens the season on the road against Auburn on Aug. 21, then hosts Hillcrest Tuscaloosa the following week before region play begins Sept. 4 against Hoover. The Huskies travel to Tuscaloosa County, Oak Mountain and Vestavia Hills and host Prattville, Thompson and Spain Park within the region. Hewitt-Trussville has an open date Sept. 25 and closes the regular season on the road at Pike Road.
OFFENSE
Jack Floyd enters the year as the full-time starting quarterback after going 4-1 as a freshman starter, and his coach and dad said he’s added significant size and strength since last season. Junior Harris Tuggle has also improved and pushes for reps, while sophomore Judah Weber can play quarterback in a pinch but will primarily help the team on defense.
“I think what helped win the team over was just his competitiveness, to be able to go in there in that kind of environment and compete,” Josh Floyd said of Jack.
At running back, sophomore Daniel Williams brings explosiveness and vision, while senior Harrison Malone, primarily a linebacker, will also see carries after two strong seasons on defense. Nathan Mohr is also in the mix there.
The offensive line returns seniors Micah Fantroy and Calvyn Speigner as starters, with sophomore Searcy Ellis and junior Marion Woodley, both thrown into starting roles last year, also back. Sophomores Anders Hardy, Hunter Jordan and John Carson Koehler add size and depth to a group Floyd said is bigger than in years past.
At tight end, junior Jackson Martin returns as a threeyear starter with multiple FBS offers, and Floyd said he’s
noticeably more explosive after playing through injury a year ago. Junior Will Baker and senior Will Miller, who is still working back into football shape after a spring on the baseball diamond, round out the group.
Hewitt-Trussville’s receiving corps replaces several key contributors, led by junior Dylan Price, senior Riley O’Neill, senior Lucian Nelson, senior DJ Hall, junior Tyron Allen and junior Henry Farrell, who also handles some kicking duties. Sophomore Reid Langley adds size to the group as well.
DEFENSE
Only three players return who saw significant snaps a year ago, led by senior D’ante Seals, a three-year starter and Troy commit who can line up on the interior or the edge.
“He’s a guy that’s been in the battles,” Floyd said of Seals.
Senior Harrison Malone returns at outside linebacker after an all-region season, and senior Simeon Watson anchors the secondary at cornerback after starting there since his sophomore year.
Up front alongside Seals, senior Eli Abney provides edge presence, with junior Mike Ross, junior Sam Starkey and junior Luke Vendenberghe, a converted offensive lineman, adding depth.
At linebacker, senior Jayden Berry and junior Ryker Dummitt anchor the middle, with sophomores Hunter Futrell and Joseph Deibert, and transfer Cody Parker also in the mix.
The secondary features junior Zion Westry and junior Kahlil Braswell at cornerback alongside Watson, while senior Parker Neigoot returns after missing last season, joined by senior Caleb Scott and senior Sam Dick at safety.
SPECIAL TEAMS
Seniors Nathan Fritz, Banks Loyd and Tony Hrbacek all return to handle placekicking, kickoffs and punting, respectively. Henry Farrell adds a second kicking option after hitting a 45-yard field goal against Thompson last season, and sophomore Rivers Harbinson is expected to compete for a role in the return game.
Jack Floyd (7). Photo by Michael Jackson. D’ante Seals (6). Photos by Shawn Bowles.
Jackson Martin (20)
Zion Westry (21)
UNDER THE LIGHTS HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW
Defending state champion Cougars return experienced roster
By KYLE PARMLEY
Clay-Chalkville High School enters the season coming off a 15-0 run to the program’s fifth state championship, a Class 6A title win over Saraland, and head coach Stuart Floyd said the roster returning eight or nine starters on both sides of the ball gives the Cougars a chance to make another run.
“You get your O-line, D-line back, your linebackers in the box, usually you’re pretty good,” Floyd said.
Floyd said the offense has significant production to replace at quarterback, running back and receiver, but he’s confident in the players stepping into those roles. He pointed to a summer trip to Atlanta, complete with mini golf and a team hotel stay, as the moment last year’s group started to come together, and said building that same chemistry is now the focus for this team.
Looking back on last season, Floyd pointed to the state championship game and a wild comeback against Thompson as signature moments, along with a road win over Muscle Shoals in the semifinals that avenged a playoff loss to the same team the year before.
“It was just kind of a magical season,” Floyd said.
The coaching staff featured a little churn this offseason. Zach Wilson was elevated to coach tight ends and Justin Whisenhunt took over outside linebackers. Eddie Wall was hired as defensive coordinator after Clay-Chalkville’s previous coordinator, Jake Helveston, was hired as the Oneonta head coach, and Mac Jones joined the staff to coach receivers.
Clay-Chalkville also shifts into a new region this fall, with Mountain Brook moving out and several former Class 5A programs, including St. Clair County, Springville and Southside-Gadsden, moving up.
Clay-Chalkville opens the season on the road against Creekside out of Georgia on Aug. 21, then travels to Thompson the following week before region play begins Sept. 4 at Springville. The Cougars host Southside-Gadsden, Oxford, Pell City and Pinson Valley within the region and travel to St. Clair County to close out region play. Clay-Chalkville
has open dates Sept. 25 and Oct. 23, and closes the regular season at home against Central Phenix City.
OFFENSE
Clay-Chalkville returns four of five starters on the offensive line, headlined by tackles Christian Bennett and Tavaris Powell, both of whom Floyd called Division I-caliber players. Guards Shamar Smith and James Felder return as well, with Peyton Kimbrough stepping into the fifth spot at center.
At quarterback, junior CJ Eldridge takes over after two years of practicing behind standout Aaron Frye. Floyd said Eldridge has already shown growth and may be slightly ahead of where his predecessor was at the same stage.
“He’s got big shoes to fill, but he’s also practiced for two years against one of the better defenses,” Floyd said.
The running back room has grown from almost no depth to a crowded group, led by seniors Cayden McGhee and Aaron Robinson.
At receiver and tight end, seniors Nasir Ray and Caden Farris both played significant snaps a year ago, while senior Cartier Barnes and junior Kaleb Amerson round out the perimeter. Senior Carlos Pope, primarily a defensive lineman, will also see time at tight end given his versatility.
“He would probably start on 99 percent of the high school teams out there,” Floyd said of Pope. “We’re going to try to use him as many ways as possible.”
Floyd said the tight end position remains one of his favorite pieces to build an offense around because of the flexibility it creates.
“Formationally, you can be whatever personnel you need to be,” Floyd said. “It makes people line up in ways they don’t really want to line up in.”
DEFENSE
Clay-Chalkville’s defense returns nine players with significant experience, anchored up front by senior Colton McIntyre, senior Keith Richmond and Pope. DJ Williams, an offseason addition, joins Richmond at the edge spots.
At linebacker, senior Isaiah Brown and senior Quinton Lowe return in the box, while Leland Johnson shifts from the Jack position to Star this year. Jamario Yadao moves from Star to strong safety, replacing graduated starter Xavier Starks.
The secondary also returns senior Jalen Melton and senior Josh Ivy at safety, while cornerback will feature Anton Whitt, Keith Scott and Braxton Burt.
“It’s getting better, and that’s the one area where we lost a couple of big pieces,” Floyd said of the defensive back group. “But there’s a lot of experience coming back.”
SPECIAL TEAMS
Mario Cabachuela takes over kicking duties for ClayChalkville this season, one of the new faces the Cougars will lean on as they replace key special teams pieces from last year’s championship run.
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Colton McIntyre (5). Photo by James Nicholas.
Christian Bennett (77). Photo by James Nicholas.
CJ Eldridge (14). Photo by Shawn Bowles.
Nasir Ray (17). Photo by Todd Lester.
Save the Date
TRUSSVILLE DOG DAZE
► Where: East Mall, 225 Parkway Drive
► When: Aug. 1, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
► Cost: Free admission
► Details: Celebrate the dog days of summer at Trussville Dog Daze, a family-friendly festival featuring live music, food vendors, local businesses, games and activities for all ages. Bring the whole family — including your four-legged friends — for a fun-filled day supporting the community while enjoying one of Trussville’s signature summer events.
► More Info: trussvillechamber.com
A “GROWN-UP” BOOK FAIR
► Where: Ferus Artisan Ales, 101 Beech St., Suite 111
► When: Aug. 23, 3 p.m.
► Cost: Free
► Details: Relive the excitement of a childhood book fair with a grown-up twist at Ferus Artisan Ales. Browse books from local authors and independent booksellers while enjoying craft beverages and connecting with fellow readers. Whether you’re searching for your next great read or simply looking for a unique afternoon out, this community event offers the perfect blend of books, conversation and local flavor.
► More Info: trussvillechamber.com
► For more events news, connect with the Cahaba Sun online by scanning the QR code.
► Have an upcoming event to share? Email Kyle Parmley at kparmley@starnesmedia.com.
ROCKIN’ FOR RESTORATION
► Where: Trussville Entertainment District, 119 Beech St.
► When: Aug. 1, 5 p.m.
► Cost: Attendance is free, $10 donation encouraged
► Details: Enjoy an evening of live music, food and community fellowship during Rockin’ for Restoration. The annual event brings the community together for a great cause while showcasing local entertainment in the heart of downtown Trussville. Bring a lawn chair, gather with friends and enjoy a summer evening supporting restoration efforts and celebrating community spirit.
► More Info: willbrightfoundation.com
TRUSSVILLE LIBRARY
SUMMER SINGO: MUSIC BINGO
► Where: Trussville Entertainment District, 119 Beech St.
► When: Aug. 13, 7 p.m.
► Cost: Free
► Details: Put your music knowledge to the test during Summer Singo: Music Bingo at the Trussville Entertainment District. Instead of listening for numbers, players mark their cards with popular songs spanning a variety of genres and decades. Bring family and friends for an evening of friendly competition, great music and prizes while enjoying the lively atmosphere of one of Trussville’s favorite entertainment destinations.
► More Info: trussvillegateway.org
► Aug. 1: Birds of Prey at the Library with Alabama Wildlife Center, 1 p.m.
► Aug. 10: Books & Brews, 7:15 p.m.
► Aug. 13: Cult Classic Cinema: “Jaws,” 5:30 p.m.
► Aug. 17: Game Night!, 5 p.m.
► Aug. 18: Adult Book Club: “The Familiar” by Leigh Bardugo, 6 p.m.
► Aug. 21: Classic Cinema: “The Pirate,” 2 p.m.
GOVERNMENT MEETINGS
► Aug. 6: Planning & Zoning Agenda Workshop, 5:30 p.m., Trussville City Hall Annex.
► Aug. 10: Planning & Zoning Meeting, 5:30 p.m., Trussville City Hall Annex.
► Aug. 11: City Council Meeting, 5:30 p.m., Trussville City Hall Annex.
► Aug. 20: Board of Zoning Adjustment, 5:30 p.m., Trussville City Hall Annex.
► Aug. 25: City Council Meeting, 5:30 p.m., Trussville City Hall Annex.
► Aug. 26: Civil Service Board Meeting, 2:30 p.m., Trussville City Hall Annex.
AROUND TOWN
► Aug. 7: New Favorite: Celebrating the Music of Alison Krauss & Union Station, 7 p.m., Trussville Entertainment District.
► Aug. 14: Hippies & Cowboys, 7 p.m., Trussville Entertainment District.
► Aug. 21: Gimme Hendrix: The Ultimate Jimi Hendrix Tribute, 7 p.m., Trussville Entertainment District.
► Aug. 28: A Murder of Crowes: A Tribute to The Black Crowes, 7 p.m., Trussville Entertainment District.
Sixth annual Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast to be held
By EMILY REED
Trussville Mayor Ben Short will hold the 2026 Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast on Aug. 14.
This will be the sixth year the event, which usually draws a crowd of about 350 to 400 people, has been held.
“Anyone can come, but be sure to get your tickets early because it sells out every year,” said Heather Weems with the Trussville Area Chamber of Commerce.
The Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast first started in April 2021, encouraging elected officials, church leaders, school administrators, business professionals and civic-minded citizens to come together for a time of prayer and reflection.
The event will be held at the Trussville Civic Center and is hosted by the Trussville Area Chamber of Commerce.
The breakfast will begin at 6:30 a.m.
“Moments like the Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast remind us
Former bartender bets her future on buying classic restaurant
By KELLI S. HEWETT
Earlier this year, 24-year-old bartender Chloe Kidd was slinging drinks at an Auburn college bar. Today, she’s the owner and operator of Ocean, one of Birmingham’s longstanding seafood icons — and almost no one saw it coming.
“I didn’t tell anybody,” said Kidd, a 2019 graduate of Hewitt-Trussville High School and resident of Cahaba Heights. “Everyone’s like, ‘Huh? You did what?’”
Instead, she did what she’s been doing since childhood: set a goal, worked the problem, did the homework. Then, she used a nest egg and bet on herself — no partners, no backers, no inner restaurant circle.
“I stick out in this industry, in this city, like a sore thumb,” Kidd said of the male-dominated profession. “I just find my own way to make things happen.”
She fuels herself on ADHD stubbornness, plenty of challenges and the thrill of being underestimated.
Kidd, who was 7 months old when Ocean opened in March 2002, grew up in a family business environment.
Her late father, Alan Kidd, owned Cowboys gas station along U.S. 280, as well as Jack Rabbit car washes and other businesses. At 6 years old, she was on a milk crate running the Cowboys register.
“I loved it,” Kidd said. “I was a good kid, and I wanted to do the work.”
By 16, that work ethic came with a grown-up anxiety.
With her first paycheck from the Polo outlet store in Leeds, she called her mom in a panic.
“My paycheck is less than $500,” Kidd told her. “I need a $5,000 paycheck. How am I going to retire?”
She laughs at it now, but that “panic equals action” wiring has never really gone away.
“I’ve always compared myself to 50-year-old men running multimillion-dollar businesses,” Kidd said. “I’ve always felt behind. It’s just been a panic from a young age.”
That’s the headspace she was in after another late bartending shift when she pulled up a listing on BizBuySell. com: an award-winning Birmingham restaurant for sale, name withheld.
She reverse-searched the clues, realized it was Ocean, built a PowerPoint for her financial advisor, walked into his office with hastily upgraded business clothes and hairstyle, and secured a loan.
“I always wanted to do something important,” Kidd said. “I wanted to feel special, I guess.”
Longtime Ocean employee and its new executive chef Jahaad Jackson said he’s already seeing her ambitious vision
come to life.
“New energy, new vigor brings a lot more gusto to get stuff done,” Jackson said of Ocean’s youth infusion. “I see it as a strength.”
In June, Ocean was recognized by DiRōNA, the Distinguished Restaurants of North America, for exceptional fine dining and by Wine Spectator for noteworthy wine offerings.
“Ocean is not just mine; it’s everything that it’s been so far,” Kidd said. “It belongs to the people. I want to give this place a new life, but I don’t want to erase what it was for everybody. You can still feel like home — except we’ve had an update.”
Chloe Kidd, a 2019 graduate of HewittTrussville High School, is the new owner of the iconic seafood restaurant Ocean, in Birmingham’s Southside.
Photo by Kelli S. Hewett.
