From the Air Force to City Council, Jaime Melton Anderson has spent her whole life answering the call
By DIANE POOLE
Jaime Melton Anderson recently experienced her “last first day in uniform.” While her 32-year military career is coming to an end, her service is not. From the Air Force Academy through active duty and the Air Force Reserve, Anderson built a life centered on service, leadership and responsibility — values she now carries into her hometown while continuing her civilian career.
Along the way, she served in a variety of roles, including assignments tied to U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, the Pentagon and NATO, while also maintaining family life and her civilian career. The experience shaped her leadership, deepened her commitment to service and prepared her for the work she now does in her hometown of Trussville.
But none of that could have happened without the encouragement of her teachers and principal at Hewitt-Trussville High School. Anderson credits them for encouraging her to take this opportunity.
“I can’t stress enough how the teachers at HTHS and Principal Connie Williams were the reason I had the opportunity of a lifetime to go to the Air Force Academy and to make it through those tough four years. That decision and opportunity changed my life.”
When asked about what she’s most proud of, Anderson was modest about her career, emphasizing that it was nothing she did. From four-star commanders to senior generals, so many played a role in her work. She described being in meetings in which she was the only major in a room full of generals.
“I feel like I did the very best I could, and I’m proud of my service. But it’s the relationships and the friendships I have made. I’m humbled at the caliber of amazing people that I’ve gotten to meet.”
Anderson went on to cite examples of some of her most notable moments. She wrote remarks for a U.S. president who spoke at an Air Force Academy graduation. She helped coordinate events with the secretary of energy, U.S. senators and top defense leaders. She smiled when she shared that she even hosted the Atlanta Braves inside the Pentagon. Anderson grew up watching her parents model service. Her mother Bonnie was a nurse and her father Gene was a state trooper who later served for 20 years as mayor of Trussville.
“I saw service demonstrated every day of my life growing up — with a nurse as a mother and a state trooper as a father. There are no two professions more service-oriented … everything they did was for other people.”
Watching her father serve as mayor also left a lasting impression. Seeing firsthand the challenges and responsibilities of leading a community inspired her to step into public service herself. She said his example showed her the importance of putting people first and doing what is best for the community.
“His service as mayor really did influence me to step out and run for city council in 2020, just to be able to give back to a city that I love so much.”
Her military service also helped to prepare her for community service.
“The military is all about teamwork … no man is an island. We’re all moving toward a common goal. It prepared me to deal with stressful situations … difficult people … setbacks and failures. Community service is a natural outpouring of military service.”
Where did Anderson find the balance between her role as a wife and mom of three and her military career?
“I didn’t. It takes a village to do anything in this life. And there were competing priorities for every minute, and I’m just so thankful that I had a supportive mother-in-law, parents and husband, and my children understood how much I loved doing these things. Everyone had to make sacrifices.
“The whole family sacrificed for me to be able to do those things. I never once found the balance — if you find it, call me.”
Anderson now serves as Trussville’s city council president, a role she approaches with the same sense of responsibility that defined her military career.
“It’s really humbling,” she said. “It’s a privilege to have
the confidence of the other four councilors who I very much respect.
“They didn’t have to elect me. They could have picked any one of themselves, and I’m humbled and honored that I have their confidence. I take my role as city council president very seriously because I was voted on by my fellow councilors.”
Anderson shared advice for young people considering military or public service.
“Don’t let anybody tell you that military service or community service is not important. It is the absolute backbone … of a good place to live. It’s totally a service-based endeavor … you know that you’re doing it for other people.”
What is Anderson most looking forward to in this next chapter?
“I don’t think I’m slowing down. I’m looking forward to being able to take that time and invest it in mentoring the next generation … of leaders who want to join the Air Force or pursue an appointment at the Academy or serve in the military … to help walk the next generation through their pursuit to serve.”
Anderson will continue her civilian work and will remember fondly her 32 years of military service. She recalled that “last day” moment with a sense of pride and perspective.
As she drove onto base that final “first day,” she was reminded that it was time to pass on that responsibility. A young airman saluted her at the gate — just six months into his own service.
“This is a young man’s game,” she said. “I just felt like, this is it. I’m passing it to the next generation.
“It’s such a privilege to wear the uniform,” she said. “I’ve worn it since I was 18 years old, and I’m proud of the time I got to wear it.”
Above: Jaime and her dad Mayor Gene Melton.
Left: Jaime Melton Anderson has spent 32 years in the Air Force.
Photos courtesy of Jaime Melton Anderson.
SCHOOLHOUSE
Hewitt-Trussville Middle School choir hits high notes with state honors and spring performances
By APRIL COFFEy
From award-winning performances to a musical production of “Joseph and the Technicolor Dreamcoat,” the Hewitt-Trussville Middle School choir program is ending the school year on a high note.
Under the direction of Nichole Hill, the school’s choral department earned statewide recognition while continuing to provide students with opportunities to grow as musicians and performers.
This spring, the choir program celebrated major success at the Alabama Vocal Association State Choral Performance Assessment, held April 17-19. Four HTMS choirs participated in the event, including the sixth grade girls beginning choir, boys choir, seventh and eighth grade honors choir, and eighth grade honors choir. All four ensembles received “Superior with Distinction,” the highest rating awarded at the state assessment.
“The students worked incredibly hard preparing for assessment, and earning Superior with Distinction is a huge accomplishment,” Hill said. “I am so proud of the focus, teamwork and musical growth they demonstrated throughout the process.”
Earlier this year, on March 2, 86 HTMS choir students participated in the UAB Honor Choir, representing the school among talented young singers from across the region. In addition to participating in the honor choir experience, HTMS students were invited to perform before the concert.
The sixth grade beginning girls choir performed “Dona Nobis Pacem,” arranged by Julie Wheeler, while the seventh and eighth grade honors choir performed “Lux Aeterna” by Christi Jones.
“Both groups did an outstanding job,” Hill said. “It was an honor for our students to perform in that setting, and they represented Hewitt-Trussville beautifully.”
Hill said the preparation for both events worked hand in hand throughout the school year. She explained that the UAB Honor Choir especially helped students strengthen the sight-reading skills necessary for state assessment.
“The UAB Honor Choir is a sight-reading honor choir,” Hill said. “The students receive their music the day of the event and learn it all in one day before performing that afternoon. Using those sight-reading skills directly assisted in preparing them for the AVA assessment.”
In addition to building musicianship, Hill said the experiences gave students opportunities they would not normally receive in a daily classroom setting.
“Being able to participate in these events gives students the opportunity to work with other musicians and learn from others,” she said. “It also allows them to receive feedback from four different judges with different backgrounds, which helps them grow as young musicians.”
Hill said she noticed a boost in both confidence and teamwork among students after the events.
“The students began to see that when they work together and stay consistent in what they are taught and practice, they become better musicians,” she said. “They also had the opportunity to learn from listening to and watching other choirs perform.”
The HTMS choir program is open to students at all grade levels and focuses on vocal technique, music literacy and performance skills in a supportive and creative environment. Through rehearsals and performances, students learn harmony, music reading and confidence on stage.
“I want students to feel like the choir room is a place
where they belong,” Hill said. “We work hard, but we also build friendships, confidence and leadership skills through music.”
The department’s busy spring season continued with its production of “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat,” which opened Friday, April 17, at 7 p.m. in the HTMS auditorium, with additional performances April 18 and 19.
“Our students have poured so much energy and excitement into this production,” Hill said. “Audiences saw tremendous talent and a lot of heart on that stage.”
The choir program concluded the school year with its final choir concert on May 12.
Looking ahead, Hill said experiences like honor choir and state assessments continue to shape the future of the program.
“This type of learning helps grow a choral program and allows it to move forward at a higher level of excellence,” she said.
All four Hewitt-Trussville Middle School choirs earned “Superior with Distinction,” the highest rating at the Alabama Vocal Association State Choral Performance Assessment, held April 17-19, under the direction of Nichole Hill. Photos courtesy of Trussville City Schools.
SPORTS
Huskies boys soccer makes first final four trip
By KyLE PARMLEy
It was a strong spring for soccer at Hewitt-Trussville High School, with both the boys and girls programs making noise in Class 7A.
The boys team made history, reaching the state final four for the first time in program history after one of the most dramatic wins of the season.
Standing in the way was Florence, the topranked team in Class 7A. The match played out like the marquee game it was. Brennan Greer gave the Huskies the lead with a firsthalf goal, but Florence answered to make it 1-1, and that score held through regulation.
Two five-minute overtime periods came and went with neither side breaking through, setting up a penalty kick shootout.
Greer, Andrew Bell and Steven Richards each converted their attempts. Goalkeeper Bryant Steele stopped three of Florence’s five kicks to seal the win, sending Hewitt-Trussville to the final four for the first time.
The Huskies drew Bob Jones in the semifinals at John Hunt Park in Huntsville on May 6, and the game delivered another dramatic finish, though this one didn’t end in Hewitt’s favor.
Arnav Maskey scored just 1:09 into the match to put Bob Jones on top. Greer answered 24 seconds later with a penalty kick to tie it 1-1. Maskey scored again in the opening minute of the second half to put the Patriots back in front, and it stayed that way until Jason Merriweather scored with 31.5 seconds left in regulation to force overtime at 2-2.
In the second overtime, Bob Jones’ Zachary McGee got the ball on the left side with about 15 seconds remaining, cut inside past a defender and fired a shot into the upper left corner with 5.4 seconds on the clock to end it. The Patriots won 3-2 and advanced to the state championship game.
Hewitt-Trussville finished the season 15-5-6.
On the girls side, the Huskies also had a strong year. Hewitt-Trussville finished 13-5-3 and ranked fifth in Class
7A before falling to Thompson 4-3 in the first round of the playoffs.
The season wrapped up the careers of two senior captains who signed to play collegiately. Ella Cane signed with Southern Union State Community College and Kate Willoughby signed with Auburn University at Montgomery. Coach Sean Gibson said both players were essential to a young team that started five freshmen almost every game.
“Both Kate and Ella were captains this year and showed great leadership with a very young team,” Gibson said.
Cane, a wing player, finished with eight goals and six assists. She came through in big moments against Hoover and Mountain Brook, using her speed on the outside to get past defenders and create shots or crosses.
Willoughby, a center back, started more than 100 varsity matches dating back to her eighth-grade year. Gibson praised her one-on-one defending and her composure under pressure.
“She was the heart of our back four, the heart of the defense and the heart of this team,” Gibson said. “She really doesn’t make mistakes, which is a great quality to have in a center back.”
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Merritt Daniel finishes second at state golf tournament
By KyLE PARMLEy
Hewitt-Trussville High School junior Merritt Daniel turned in one of the standout individual performances of the Class 7A girls state golf tournament at the Robert Trent Jones Magnolia Grove Golf Course in Mobile, finishing second in the individual standings with a two-day total of 142.
Daniel arrived at state having already claimed medalist honors at the North Sub-State Tournament, where she shot a 73 to advance. She picked up where she left off, carding a 3-under 69 on May 12 — the low round of the day in the Class 7A girls' field — after opening with a 73 on May 11. The closing round moved her up the leaderboard and cemented her place as one of the top performers of the tournament.
She finished seven strokes behind champion Klare Jamison of Grissom, who won low medalist honors with a two-day total of 137 after firing rounds of 67-70. Jamison led a Grissom team that won the Class 7A girls’ title with a 451 total, edging defending state champion Auburn by three strokes.
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Hewitt-Trussville High School’s Merritt Daniel finished second in the Class 7A state golf tournament. Photo courtesy of Hewitt-Trussville Athletics.
The Hewitt-Trussville High School boys soccer team advanced to the state final four for the first time in program history. Shown in the photo is the large crowd gathered to watch the Huskies defeat Florence in the Class 7A quarterfinals. Photo courtesy of HewittTrussville Athletics.
Huskies finish runner-up at state outdoor track
By KyLE PARMLEy
Hewitt-Trussville High School put together a strong showing at the state outdoor track and field meet, finishing second in the Class 7A boys standings with 103.5 points and third in the girls standings with 62 points at Mickey Miller Blackwell Stadium in Gulf Shores in early May.
The boys effort was headlined by a pair of standout sprinters. Devin Kouanvih won the Class 7A 200-meter dash in 22.08 seconds after posting the fastest qualifying time in the prelims at 21.46. Raphael Boakye-Yiadom was one of the meet's most versatile performers, placing fourth in the 110-meter hurdles in 15.39 and third in the triple jump at 48 feet, 1 inch. Zion Westry added a fourthplace finish in the triple jump at 48-0. Ethan Ridley placed sixth in the triple jump at 46-7.75.
Demetri Hall Jr. won the Class 7A 300meter hurdles in 37.96 seconds, a personal best and the fourth-fastest time in Alabama this season, one of the more impressive individual performances of the entire meet. Daryl Thomas Jr. placed fifth in the
110-meter hurdles in 15.80 and sixth in the 300-meter hurdles in 39.78. Matthew McGuire took fifth in the 400 meters in a personal best 48.60.
Max Ryan placed third in the 800 meters in 1:54.68, while Noah Jordan finished second in the 1,600 in 4:14.87 and third in the 3,200 in 9:25.89. John Paul Amari added a sixthplace finish in the 3,200 in 9:33.91, a season best. Stewart Nelms placed 10th in the 3,200 in 9:41.89, a personal best. Maddox Turner placed ninth in the 800 in 1:59.61.
Ben Reeves took second in the boys pole
vault at 14-6, with Charlie Peacock placing sixth at 13-0. Will Phillips placed seventh in the long jump at 21-11.75.
The boys 4x100 relay finished second in the final at 41.67 after posting the fastest qualifying time in the prelims at 41.28, the third-fastest in Alabama and among the top 100 in the country this season. The boys 4x800 relay placed third in 7:55.15.
On the girls side, Mary Durham led the way with a second-place finish in the 800 meters in 2:15.44, the fifth-fastest time in Alabama this season, and a fifth-place finish
in the 1,600 in 5:06.12. Emmie Goodell placed fourth in the 800 in 2:17.42, a personal best and the ninth-fastest time in the state. Jaliyah Edwards placed second in the discus at 126-1 and third in the shot put at 38-6.50. Savannah Bullock added a sixthplace finish in the discus at 114-11. Olivia Reese placed third in the 100-meter hurdles in 15.52. Brooklyn Vandegrift took sixth in the girls pole vault at 10-0, a personal best. Lia Carter placed eighth in the long jump at 17-4.50.
The girls 4x100 relay finished seventh in the final at 49.03. The girls 4x800 relay won the Class 7A title in 9:32.05, the fastest time in Alabama this season.
George Merchant swept all four para ambulatory events for Hewitt-Trussville, winning the 100 meters in 15.91, the discus at 71-9, the shot put at 28-0 and the javelin at 57-5. Caylin Kennemur won the girls para ambulatory 100 meters in 20.63, the 200 meters in 45.86, the discus at 42-9 and the shot put at 19-10.25, a personal best. Sarah Thomas won the girls para ambulatory 100 meters in 20.31 and the 200 meters in 43.13, a personal best.
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The Hewitt-Trussville High School boys track and field team finished as the Class 7A runner-up at the state meet May 2 in Gulf Shores. Photo courtesy of Hewitt-Trussville Athletics.
EVENTS
Save the Date
SUMMER MOVIE NIGHTS AT THE GATEWAY
► Where: The Gateway, Trussville Entertainment District, Beech Street
► When: Tuesdays in June at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m.
► Web: ferusales.com/events
► Cost: Free
► Details: The TED’s outdoor movie nights on the big screen will be each Tuesday in June. Films will include “Up” on June 2, “Encanto” on June 9, “Ratatouille” on June 16 and “The SpongeBob Movie” on June 23. Restaurants and breweries will be open during the events.
THE BUDDIES TOUR WITH ANNIE F. DOWNS AND EDDIE KAUFHOLZ
► Cost: From $40.20 for general admission to $121.60 for VIP with meet-and-greet and after-show party.
► Details: Podcast hosts Annie F. Downs and Eddie Kaufholz will bring an evening of conversation, humor and audience interaction, based on their podcast “Annie and Eddie Keep Talking,” which launched in 2020.
► 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.
TRUSSVILLE FRESH FARMERS MARKET
► Where: Trussville Entertainment District, Beech Street
► When: Saturdays in June, 8 a.m. to noon
► Call: 205-283-4558
► Cost: Admission is free
► Details: The Trussville Fresh Farmers Market will be each Saturday in June. Vendors offer locally grown produce, fruits, vegetables, artisan baked goods, handcrafted soaps and seasonal plants. Most vendors accept both cash and credit cards. Shoppers can browse a variety of locally made and farm-fresh products each week.
MAGIC CITY MAGICIAN LIVE
► Where: The Gateway, Trussville Entertainment District, Beech Street
► Details: Award-winning southeastern magicians Brian Reaves, Bentley Burns and Brandon Herring will perform a family-friendly magic show at The Gateway. Presented by the Trussville Area Chamber of Commerce, the free event will feature live illusions and interactive entertainment. Food and drinks from nearby restaurants and breweries will be available during the performance.
QUILTFEST 2026
► Where: Bessemer Civic Center, 1130 9th Ave.
SW
► When: Friday-Saturday, June 12-13, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
► Web: bhamquilters.com, shopinthemaking.com
► Cost: $10 admission, $60 Friday class fee
► Details: The Birmingham Quilters Guild will showcase more than 300 locally made quilts, including a number from Trussville artists. Enjoy a vendor mall, demonstrations, Quilts of Valor honoring military veterans, a silent auction and more. Optional hand-sewing classes will be offered on Friday for an added fee.
ANNUAL PAINTING AND CREATIVE EXPO
► Where: Trussville Civic Center, 5381 Trussville-Clay Road
► When: Tuesday-Saturday, June 23-27, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
► Web: apcexpo.net, trussvillechamber.com
► Cost: Trade floor admission, Thursday to Saturday, $10 daily for ages 16 and older, BOGO free
► Details: Virtual and in-person event. Painting World Magazine and Viking Woodcrafts will host the expo featuring classes in decorative painting, fine art and mixed media. The public trade show floor, Thursday to Saturday, will feature vendor booths, live demonstrations and a “Sweet Home Christmas” event.
Low-cost ways to enjoy summer close to home
By KRISTI SELLERS
Summer in Trussville offers something many families are looking for this time of year: ways to enjoy the season close to home without spending a fortune. From walking trails and splash pads to libraries, parks and outdoor recreation, the Trussville area is filled with low-cost activities that work for kids, teens, couples and anyone wanting to get outside during Alabama’s long summer evenings.
Whether you’re planning a full family outing or just trying to keep the kids entertained for a few hours, these hyperlocal activities make it easy to enjoy summer without leaving the community. Best of all, most are available all season long and require little planning besides grabbing sunscreen and bottled water and heading out the door.
EXPLORE THE TRAILS AT TRUSSVILLE PARKS AND RECREATION
The walking and biking trails near the Trussville Sports Complex are some of the best free outdoor recreation options in the area. They’re ideal for nearly every fitness level, whether you want a casual evening walk, a morning jog or a family bike ride. The trail system includes wooded sections and paved areas, giving visitors a chance to enjoy nature without leaving town. The trails are free to access and open throughout the summer. Bring water, sunscreen and comfortable shoes. Evening visits are especially popular once temperatures cool down. Visit trussville.org/parks-recreation for more information.
COOL OFF AT TRUSSVILLE POOL AND SPLASH PAD
The community pool and splash pad are classic summer staples in Trussville, and they provide affordable relief from Alabama heat while giving families hours of entertainment. They combine swimming, water play and a family-friendly atmosphere close to home. Located within the Trussville Parks and Recreation system, the pool area offers designated swim times throughout the summer season. Admission pricing and guest policies vary, so visitors should check the city aquatics page before heading out. Bring towels, sunscreen, water shoes and extra clothes for the ride home. Weekday mornings are often less crowded than weekends. Visit trussville.org/parks-recreation for more information.
DIVE INTO SUMMER READING AT TRUSSVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY
Few summer resources in the area are as well-rounded — or as free — as the Trussville Public Library, which offers
something for families, kids and adults alike. From reading challenges and educational programs to crafts and indoor activities, the library provides a cool escape during the hottest months of the year. Located in the center of Trussville, the library hosts programs throughout the summer season, many of which are free with advance registration. Visitors can also browse books, use free Wi-Fi or simply relax indoors on rainy afternoons. Check the online events calendar before visiting to see what activities are scheduled each week. Visit trussvillelibrary.com for more information.
FLOAT OR EXPLORE NEAR TURKEY CREEK FALLS
Turkey Creek Falls is one of the area’s best summer adventures because it combines hiking, creek access and scenic natural beauty close to Trussville. Just a short drive away in Pinson, it offers an outdoor experience that feels far removed from city life without actually going very far. Visitors can hike the trails, explore the preserve or cool off near the creek during warmer months. The preserve charges a modest admission fee during some seasons and events, so
check the preserve website before visiting. Wear sturdy shoes and bring water, bug spray and sunscreen. Morning visits are ideal during peak summer heat. Visit turkeycreeknp.com for more information.
BOWL A FEW GAMES AT SPARE TIME TRUSSVILLE
When Alabama weather becomes too hot or rainy for outdoor plans, Spare Time Trussville is a strong low-cost indoor option for families and groups of friends, combining bowling, arcade games and laser tag under one roof. Located on Roosevelt Boulevard near Trussville, the entertainment center often participates in summer bowling promotions, including discounted weekday play. Prices vary by activity and time of day, so checking specials online before visiting is always recommended. Bring socks for bowling shoes and expect weekends to be busier during peak summer months. Visit sparetimeentertainment.com/trussville for more information.
TAKE AN EVENING WALK AROUND TRUSSVILLE ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT
The Trussville Entertainment District is a great low-cost summer outing that combines walkability, outdoor seating and community atmosphere in one central location. Visitors can easily turn a simple evening into a fun night out without spending much money. Families can walk the district, grab dessert or coffee and enjoy the lively atmosphere as temperatures cool down after sunset. Be sure to try Cookie Dough Magic. Located near downtown Trussville, the district is easy to access and offers nearby parking. Costs depend on what you choose to purchase, making it flexible for different budgets. Evening visits are especially popular on weekends.
WATCH THE SUNSET AT VETERANS MEMORIAL PARK
Sometimes the best summer activities are the simplest ones, and an evening visit to Veterans Memorial Park is a great way to slow down and enjoy the season close to home. It’s the kind of place that’s easy to overlook until you actually go — a peaceful setting for families, couples or anyone wanting a quiet outdoor escape after a busy day. Visitors can take a casual walk, relax on a bench, or bring snacks and enjoy the cooler evening air as the sun begins to set. Located in Trussville, the park is free to visit and easy to access with nearby parking available. Bring folding chairs, water bottles or a picnic blanket if you plan to stay awhile. During summer months, sunset visits are especially popular as temperatures finally begin to cool. Visit trussville.org/parks-recreation for more information.
The Trussville community pool and splash pad offer affordable summer relief within the city’s Parks and Recreation system, with designated swim times throughout the season. Photo courtesy of Trussville Parks and Recreation.
Turkey Creek Nature Preserve in nearby Pinson offers hiking trails, creek access and scenic natural beauty just a short drive from Trussville.
Veterans Memorial Park offers a free, quiet outdoor setting for evening walks or picnics as temperatures cool after sunset.
The Trussville Entertainment District offers a walkable evening outing with outdoor seating, shops and dining. Staff photos.
LIFE
Jennifer Parker embraces new chapter on Ms. Senior Alabama stage
By DIANE POOLE
After receiving three degrees from the University of North Alabama, Jennifer Parker worked for 38 years at UPS, doing everything from driving a truck to being a member of senior management. She wanted to try everything to help give her the experience she would need to later become a part of the management team. She recalled the first morning she showed up as a road supervisor in her skirt and heels.
“I listened to them whining all during peak [Christmas] season. So, I’d go out on car — ride along with them — every now and then, and they say, ‘Well, she’s not too bad. She did pretty good.’”
Parker’s service to others is now headed in a different direction.
“I think being a UPSer for 38 years meant meeting the needs of people — whether delivering medicine, heart transplants (because UPS does that, too) or even birthday and Christmas presents. I’ve been serving people all those years, but now I get to do it in a way that’s more meaningful to me.”
Parker will represent Trussville when she competes in the Ms. Senior Alabama pageant on June 6 in Daphne.
The organization encourages women to live with purpose. That means something personally to Parker.
“I’m a full-time caregiver for my mother who has dementia, and the pageant gives me an emotional outlet and support system. It’s something I didn’t know I needed.”
She continued. “This opportunity is a diamond in the rough. You think, ‘Oh, gosh, I can’t do a pageant at sixty.’ Oh, but you can. You really can.”
As with the Miss Alabama and other pageants, Ms. Senior Alabama contestants have platforms. Parker’s platforms are the Zamora Shriners and Hope for Autumn. Her husband is a Shriner; the mission at Shriners Hospitals is helping children with orthopedic and other conditions and severe injuries, whether or not they can pay. Hope for Autumn focuses on providing financial assistance so families can focus on healing for their loved ones.
Elements of competition include fun fashion, lifestyle fashion and evening gowns. Then there are interviews with the judges and also dance numbers.
“Anything that you do that pushes you can make you be better and make you be more than what you ever thought you could be,” Parker said.
At their retreat, the women bond, attending workshops on learning the opening number and walking on the stage. They also get their headshots, have a crowning ceremony and enjoy reflections by the water each morning.
The organization’s executive director Kim Meeks shared about their annual retreat.
Meeks said, “This year they were each assigned partners from their areas to do skits at our Golden Girls party. Parker was partnered with Ms. Senior Jefferson County, Langtry Earl, and Ms. Senior Hoover, Melanie McNary. Their skit, ‘We Don’t Care Club,’ stole the show.”
What does Parker think women in her stage of life have to offer that younger contestants may not?
“Legacies. We have the scars … the bruises … the memories … the wisdom. And … most of us have the relationships, the true relationships, and young people — they really don’t
“Jennifer Parker of Trussville, a 38-year UPS veteran and fulltime caregiver for her mother, will compete in the Ms. Senior Alabama pageant on June 6 in Daphne representing her platforms of the Zamora Shriners and Hope for Autumn, an organization that provides financial assistance to families of seriously ill loved ones.
Photo by Diane Poole.
Inner beauty is being able to reflect back on your life. Reflect back and know that you did the very best you could do with what you knew at the time. It’s not to beat yourself up. I think that inner beauty comes from not only what you think about yourself but how you love yourself, your family and your community — and how you just show love to others.
JENNIFER PARKER
”know yet what they’re striving for. We already have our foundation … we’ve already made our way.”
Parker continued. “Confidence comes as you get older. Confidence comes when you realize, ‘I really did raise these kids. We made it.’”
What’s been the most fun part of preparing for the pageant? Parker was quick to answer.
“I’ve never had more fun trying on dresses and getting dolled up and doing all the things. It’s been great.”
Parker’s vision of inner beauty is simple at this stage in her life.
“Inner beauty is being able to reflect back on your life. Reflect back and know that you did the very best you could do with what you knew at the time. It’s not to beat yourself
up. I think that inner beauty comes from not only what you think about yourself but how you love yourself, your family and your community — and how you just show love to others.”
What message does Parker hope younger generations hear when they see women her age on that stage?
“You’re never too old to do anything that you set your mind to. And you’re never too old to step outside of that proverbial box.”
Ms. Senior Alabama’s 40th anniversary is next year, and applications are already being accepted. There are two categories: Ms. Senior Alabama (women 60-69) and Ms. Super Senior (ladies 70 and over). To apply, women should visit the application tab on their website: mssenioralabama.com.
Behind the music: Inside Trussville’s tribute concert scene
By KELLI S. HEWETT
A tribute concert at the Trussville Entertainment District can feel strangely transporting.
Families spread lawn chairs across the grass while crowds sing along to the music of Nirvana, Stevie Nicks, Prince and Tom Petty. Kids wave glow sticks near the stage while nearby restaurants and breweries fill with concertgoers.
For Trussville-area resident Mike Baswell, tribute bands have held a special appeal since the late 1990s, when he packed into Birmingham’s Louie Louie club to watch Strutter, a KISS tribute band performing in full makeup years before the real band reunited.
“The tribute band was offering something that you really couldn’t get from the original band anymore,” Baswell said.
Tribute acts still offer fans something unique: musicians who care enough to recreate not just the hits, but also the deeper songs longtime fans remember, he said.
For Raquel Duplin, venue manager and talent buyer for the Trussville Entertainment District and events and marketing director for Ferus Artisan Ales, creating that atmosphere is the goal.
“Music is a universal language,” Duplin said. “It uniquely brings people together.”
Crowds can reach about 2,500 people.
Tribute bands have become some of the biggest draws. Crowd favorites include The Wildflowers, a Tom Petty tribute band, and FreeBird, a Lynyrd Skynyrd tribute act.
“They really capture the spirit of the original artists,” Duplin said.
Booking those acts requires constant scouting and budgeting.
Duplin said she personally recruits about 70% of the bands after hours of watching performance videos and evaluating vocals, musicianship and stage presence.
“I do extensive digital vetting,” Duplin said. “If a band delivers a great experience and the crowd loves them, I will definitely add them to our rotation.”
Weather has also tested the production team. Repeated rain threats and washouts last spring forced organizers to constantly adapt. Duplin credited production manager Zach with helping keep concerts running despite difficult conditions.
Despite the challenges, Duplin said the work is always rewarding.
The free-concert model has become central to the district’s success. Instead of spending money on tickets, visitors support nearby restaurants, breweries and shops throughout the district.
The entertainment district has grown dramatically since opening in 2020, evolving from two concerts with no formal programming budget into a packed calendar of tribute and other music shows, movie nights, trivia and dance classes.
“Seeing people enjoy themselves,” she said. “That’s my favorite part of the job.”
For more on the 2026 tribute bands and other Trussville Entertainment District events, visit trussvillegateway.org.
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Nirvani, honoring the grunge legends of Nirvana, performs at the Trussville Entertainment District in April. The district has become a hot spot for tribute band concerts, among other musical acts Photo by Kelli S. Hewett.
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Americans love their automobiles and the personal freedom they bring, but driving to work alone each day can be stressful, expensive and damaging to the environment.
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