Jefferson County to host drop-off events for electronics, TVs, household hazardous waste
Electronic waste, or E-waste, is a rapidly growing environmental and public health concern, according to the World Health Organization, and the U.S. is the leading producer of E-waste, discarding about three million tons per year.
But many people are unaware of the hazards posed by the improper disposal of broken televisions and computer monitors in conventional landfills or along roadsides, such as the release of lead and other toxic chemicals.
That’s where Jefferson County officials come in.
The country regularly organizes free public events where residents can drop off these items safely.
In fact, Jefferson County has a total of five free electronics and TV drop-off and paper shredding events scheduled for 2025.
Two of those events will also allow residents to dispose of household hazardous waste (HHW) from their garages, basements, kitchens and bathrooms.
The first electronics drop-off and paper shredding event is set for Jan. 25 from 9 to 11:30 a.m. at the Birmingham Zoo at 2630 Cahaba Road.
“This event is perfect for people who got new
electronic devices or TVs over the holidays and need to dispose of old ones,” said county spokesperson Helen Hays.
Two other events for electronics drop-off and paper shredding will be held on May 10 at the Jefferson County Center Point Satellite Courthouse and June 14 at the Jefferson County Valley Reclamation Facility in Bessemer.
The county will host two events this year at which residents can dispose of HWW, as well as electron-
ics, TVs and paper for shredding.
The first event, on April 12 from 8-11:30 a.m., will take place at a total of three sites in Gardendale, Irondale, Bessemer. The second event will be held on October 18 from 8-11:30 a.m. at Camp Ketona in Birmingham and at Camp Bessemer.
HWW consists of automotive products, such as oil, gas, tires and batteries; household products, including aerosols, chemicals, cleaners; outdoor products, including insecticides, pool chemicals and yard chemicals; and paint products, such as paints, resins, sealants, stains and solvents.
The county also accepts a wide range of miscellaneous items, including fire extinguishers, smoke alarms, large appliances and household cooking oil and grease.
Editor’s Note By Taylor Bright
At the end of this year, Trussville won’t have Mayor Buddy Choat serving in local government for the first time since 2008. Elected mayor in 2016, Choat has led the city during a significant period of transformation, which included the establishment of the entertainment district downtown. Our writer Gary Lloyd reports that Choat decided not to seek re-election after a family trip late last year, with Choat assuring us that the city has a capable next generation of leaders to pick up the mantle. Lloyd also talked with Choat about all of the changes coming to the city in 2025.
principal of Hewitt-Trussville High School, and Jared Meads, the principal of Hewitt-Trussville Middle School. The two have led their respective schools to outstanding academic success in the past few years receiving numerous recognitions for their schools. The results speak for themselves, but it appears the two schools are in good hands for years to come.
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Speaking of the next generation of leaders, I had the opportunity to talk to Aaron King,
ON THE COVER: Buddy Choat, the mayor of Trussville, sits behind his desk on Nov. 19. Choat plans to bring several positive changes to the city before he retires as mayor. Photo by Savannah Schmidt.
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A look ahead to 2025
Projects and change aplenty for Trussville
By GARY LLOYD
Trussville may finally see some movement on the Glendale Farms property in 2025, along with a couple other infrastructure projects that have been in the works.
The city for the second time is seeking grant support from the Site Evaluation and Economic Development Strategy for the development of 86 acres at Glendale Farms. Trussville requested a total of $2.865 million in funding for the final design and construction to transform the land into Glendale Farms Technology Park.
Specifically, the funding would be used for mass grading, drainage, utility infrastructure and the construction of a portion of a new industrial access road for the technology-related industry within the park. The proposed road would connect to the east end of a new bridge and would run northward to access the technology park. Choat said this is the second time the city has applied for this type of grant and they should know the result of this application in February. The first application was not approved.
If the grant application is approved, Choat said, the work could “quite possibly” begin in 2025.
Another infrastructure emphasis will be the loop roads in the downtown Trussville area. Relocating utilities has been a city focus since 2023 to prepare for construction. The first road connection will begin at Talley Street and pass in front of where the Trussville Church of Christ building once was and behind Trussville First United Methodist Church. It will connect with Glenn Avenue, which ends at the intersection with Main Street by Marco’s Pizza, where there is now a traffic signal.
The second loop will involve creating a road between North Chalkville Road and Edgar’s Bakery, connecting near the John Street and Vann Circle area. Choat has previously said that engineers estimate the loop roads will take approximately 9,000 cars per day out of the Main Street-Chalkville Road intersection.
If bids come in reasonably, that work could begin in 2025. Choat said he expects that the project will take 18 to 24 months to construct.
“We started on this thing two and a half, almost three years ago, really laying the plans,” Choat said. “We've done a lot. It's going to be, if the pricing is too high, we'll have to do like [Alabama Department of Transportation] did, just have to regroup and refocus. But it's an infrastructure project that would really benefit the city, obviously, in the future, and hopefully the bids come in to where it won't just make it impossible for us to do that. That's a big infrastructure project for us.”
The turfing of the baseball and softball fields at the Trussville Sports Complex could be complete by March 1, Choat said. The $7.6 million project was approved in July 2024 and includes new turf and dugouts on all fields. A Miracle League field is also under construction and is expected to be complete by April 1, Choat said.
“When it’s all done, hopefully it’s going to be something
we’ll all be proud of,” Choat said.
The field will be integrated into the Trussville Parks and Recreation baseball program, creating opportunities for high school students and other community members to volunteer as buddies for Miracle League players.
“We are excited to be in a position where we can bring this Miracle League field to life and look forward to seeing the impact it will have on the Trussville community,” said Harrison Bishop, President and CEO of Amerex.
Choat also said that new equipment for the playground behind the Trussville Public Library could be coming soon. The city recently got quotes on new equipment.
“I wanted to kind of do an all-inclusive playground where we could change up some of the things in there to where, obviously, it’d be handicapped accessible for a lot of kids, along with a regular playground,” Choat said. “We’ve already got three quotes on that through the Park Board.”
By August, when the next mayor and city council elections are scheduled, Choat will not be seeking re-election. These projects and any others that come up in the first seven months of 2025 will be the last he works on as an elected official.
“When there’s change, there are concerns,” Choat said. “I’m not concerned. I think we’ve got a lot of great potential leaders in this city.”
Buddy Choat, the Trussville mayor, wishes the city a Happy New Year. Photo by Savannah Schmidt.
SCHOOLHOUSE
After banner year, schools look to 2025
By TAYLOR BRIGHT
Last year, both Hewitt Trussville High School and Hewitt-Trussville Middle School received some of the highest accolades in the state.
While the achievements were nice, the two schools’ administrators are focused on creating plans and cultures so they can continue to improve in 2025.
HTMS last year received the Mary D. Boehm School of Achievement Award from the A+ College Ready program, making it the only middle school to receive the honor. This recognition comes on the heels of the school’s completion of a three-year partnership with the state-wide program.
The award was based on results from the PSAT 8/9 exam that eighth and ninth graders take.
“All the awards and the results are a product of the people that are in this building,” said HTMS Principal Jared Meads. “I've got a great team here, and everybody's on the same page. … And that's doing what's best for kids, and all the other things really take
care of themselves.”
HTHS also received recognition for the results its students earned on the Advanced Placement exams.
The school had more qualifying scores on AP tests than any other high school in the state, including some schools with much larger student populations.
“Some schools literally double us,” HTHS Principal Aaron King said. “But, we had more
Hewitt-Trussville AP science teachers were honored at this year’s A+ College Ready Fall Conference with “Most Qualifying Scores” Awards. From left: Jonathan MacNaughton, Melanie Dimler, Kurt Kristensen and Felecia Gulledge. Photo courtesy of Trussville City Schools.
qualifying scores on AP tests. “It was truly remarkable, just absolutely incredible what the teachers have done.”
Like the middle school, the high school had received a grant from the A+ College Ready program, which provided money for training and incentives for teachers and students.
The grants for both schools are ending, but they hope to keep up the academic achievement.
That was reflected in the latest state report cards. Both schools had the same score of 93 overall, with a grade of 100 for academic growth.
King said they were looking at how to sustain the achievements of the past years with fewer resources and if there are ways to implement what the school has learned while it received the extra resources.
“The way I look at it is, it’s about culture,” he said. “It’s a culture of expectations and this community is one that wants to win. The model I’ve held with me for a long time is, if they’re keeping score, we’re planning to win.”
At the same time, King said, achievement comes with a price. The more funding, the more resources a school has, the better chance they will achieve. The question for the school going forward is how to balance achievements with maintaining a culture that keeps that high bar but does not burn out its employees.
“It’s kind of hard to go from a high B to an A, but it’s really hard to go from an A to a high A,” King said. “And there almost becomes a point where that diminishing return becomes too costly.”
In the classroom
GET TO KNOW ACCOLADES
Trussville teachers and students honored
By STAFF
Hewitt-Trussville Middle School and Hewitt-Trussville High School have earned several recent student and teacher honors:
► Both schools were honored for their continued success in the A+ College Ready Program. HTMS is now recognized as a Mary D. Boehm School of Achievement, and HTHS holds the honor of being a School of Distinction for the 2023-24 school year.
► The high school’s Advanced Placement science teachers were honored at this year’s A+ College Ready Fall Conference with Most Qualifying Scores awards. Specific awards were given to the following teachers: Melanie Dimler, Jennifer Gerhart, Felecia Gulledge, Kurt Kristensen and Jonathan MacNaughton.
► HTMS took 25 students to audition for the Alabama Vocal Association All-State Choir. The middle school had 19 students chosen to represent the school. This is considered one of the highest honors for an Alabama choral student.
► Eighteen HTHS world language students earned the Global Seal of Biliteracy. It represents years of language learning and demonstrated proficiency in all four modes of language: reading, writing, listening and speaking. The following students earned the Global Seal of Biliteracy: Taylor Allen, Sara Buttram, Amelia Crow, Madison Franklin, Dareon Gravely, Jayda Hammonds, Kinley Harris, Mareli Martinez Hernandez, Laura Ann James, Brooks Maddox, Angelik Almaguer Muniz, Caroline O’Kelley, Dakota Castellanos Panduro, Gabrielle Pate, Prina Patel, Layne Rutledge, Ellen Thomas and Kathryn Ann Waller.
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Jared Meads, principal of Hewitt-Trussville Middle
By STAFF
Jared Meads has been the principal of Hewitt-Trussville Middle School since 2023.
Q: What inspired you to work in the education industry?
A: I just fell in love with working with kids. I think I had several teachers that were a huge part in that [and] just had a huge impact on me. It just was a calling for me, and something I was passionate about doing.
Q: What is something great about your school?
A: I think our staff would tell you our
number one job — and I think that we stress our number one goal every day when we come in here — is to develop good young people. I tell them all the time our job is to develop good humans. Everything else will take care of itself.
Q: Tell us something about you that people might not know.
A: I’m pretty active outside of school. I can't sit still very much. Even at home, I'm typically trying to fix things or do things around my house. I really like the outdoors. I’m a big hunting guy. I like playing golf.
Meads
BUSINESS
Business Buzz
BUSINESS HAPPENINGS
NOW OPEN
TrueWealth Advisors, LLC, recently opened at 198 Main St., Suite 100. TrueWealth is an independent wealth management firm with offices in Birmingham, Greenville, Gulf Shores, Huntsville, Montgomery and Trussville. 205-661-9333, truewealthllc.com
Esthi Moon Wax Skin Wax & Apothecary recently opened at 7127 Gadsden Highway, Suite 211. Patrice Jones, the owner of Esthi Moon, is a licensed esthetician, bringing extensive expertise and a dedication to empowering women through wellness. 205-963-2097, esthimoon.com
Henrietta’s Deli, 120 S. Chalkville Road, is a new deli at the location of the former Kemp’s Kitchen and Bakery.
205-508-3135, henriettasdeli.com
GET TO KNOW
ANNIVERSARIES
Crumbl Cookies celebrated its first anniversary at its Trussville location at 5431 Patrick Way, Suite 105. 205-273-0909, crumblcookies.com
Dr. Jewelry, 243 Gadsden Highway, is celebrating its eighth anniversary at its current location. Dr. Jewelry has been doing business in and around Trussville for more than 35 years. 205-467-0222, facebook.com/dr.jewelry2014
Three Earred Rabbit owner Christine Leonardi
By STAFF
and Leeds. She also owns Red Bird’s Deli in Trussville.
Q: Can you tell me about the restaurant?
A: We are a small mom-and-pop. We make homemade soup, salads and deli-style sandwiches, fresh baked goods, casseroles. We've been in business for 15 years.
Q: What's your favorite item or items on the menu?
A: The Reuben sandwich and the French dip. I like the French dip because it's a hearty sandwich but it doesn't make you feel like you want to go to sleep.
Q: What sets you apart from your competitors?
A: That we're mom-and-pop and the quality of product that we use. We use all high-end deli meats, homemade sauces, homemade salad dressings. And our prices are very reasonable.
SPOTLIGHT
Do you have news to share about a business in Trussville or the greater Birmingham area? Let us know at starnesmedia.com/business-happenings
Cahaba Sun is spotlighting local businesses in print and online. Submit your business for consideration here: go.starnesmedia.com/business-spotlight
Millington Plagenhoef Dentistry, 116 Watterson Parkway, is celebrating 10 years in business. The practice moved to its current location in 2019. They are a family practice offering a variety of cosmetic procedures, digital X-rays and laser technology. 205-655-7774, millingtonplagenhoef.com
Magic City Computers, 7129 Gadsden Highway, Suite 203, is celebrating its 28th anniversary. The family-owned business specializes in custom builds, gaming computers, laptops and computer maintenance.
205-655-2848, magiccc.com
Lighting Concepts, 570 Simmons Drive, is celebrating its 34th anniversary this month. 205-655-7285, lightingconceptsal.com
Cahaba Insurance Agency, 11 Office Park, is celebrating its 37th anniversary this month. 205-655-4626, cahabainsurance.com
A place for women to heal
By STAFF
Emily Grace Ames wanted to provide a counseling practice where women in Trussville would be able to “heal, grow and flourish.”
So in 2023 she brought her practice, Greenhouse Counseling — catering in counseling for women — to Trussville after moving to the city with her family.
“I learned that many people in Trussville were driving into Birmingham for counseling, and I wanted to provide affordable, excellent therapy close to home,” Ames said.
Ames provides individual counseling for women ages 18 and older. She also provides group therapy for local moms.
Q: What's your favorite part about working in the industry?
A: When people walk out of here and they just love the experience they had and the food they ate, and the combination of both. It makes it worthwhile making people happy and filling their bellies.
“I love encouraging other women and advocating for their needs,” she said.
Ames said making a positive impact in the community is one of the most rewarding parts of her job.
“I love getting to see the positive transformation that happens with my clients in
therapy. As my clients grow, they impact their families, their jobs and ultimately our community,” she said.
Greenhouse Counseling will be starting a new therapy group for moms beginning Jan. 14. For more information, go to greenhouse-counseling.com/ therapygroupformoms.
Emily Grace Ames moved her practice to Trussville after she moved here with her family. Photo courtesy of Emily Grace Ames.
Christine Leonardi is the owner of the Three Earred Rabbit in Trussville
Christine Leonardi, owner of the Three Earred Rabbit in Trussville, poses in the restaurant. Photo by Taylor Bright.
By the numbers: 2023 vs. 2024
Recently sold homes in Trussville
► ADDRESS: 118 Mohawk Drive
► BED/BATH: 5/4
► SQUARE FOOTAGE: 3,002 sq. ft.
► NEIGHBORHOOD: Mohawk Estates
► LIST PRICE: $545,000
► SALE PRICE: $525,000
► ADDRESS: 3394 Coody Road
► BED/BATH: 3/3
► SQUARE FOOTAGE: 1,872 sq. ft.
► NEIGHBORHOOD: Trussville
► LIST PRICE: $365,000
► SALE PRICE: $372,700
► ADDRESS: 8501 Highlands Trace
► BED/BATH: 3/3
► SQUARE FOOTAGE: 2,507 sq. ft.
► NEIGHBORHOOD: Carrington
► LIST PRICE: $296,000
► SALE PRICE: $296,000
► ADDRESS: 3309 Cahaba Manor Drive
► BED/BATH: 5/4
► SQUARE FOOTAGE: 3,652 sq. ft.
► NEIGHBORHOOD: Cahaba Manor
► LIST PRICE: $485,000
► SALE PRICE: $478,500
► ADDRESS: 255 Lakeridge Drive
► BED/BATH: 4/3
► SQUARE FOOTAGE: 2,092 sq. ft.
► NEIGHBORHOOD: Trussville
► LIST PRICE: $355,000
► SALE PRICE: $345,000
► ADDRESS: 6878 Pannell Road
► BED/BATH: 3/2.5
► SQUARE FOOTAGE: 1,850 sq. ft.
► NEIGHBORHOOD: Rosewood
► LIST PRICE: $285,000
► SALE PRICE: $280,000
EVENTS
Trussville events guide
EDITOR’S PICKS
Here are Taylor Bright’s recommendations for the best events and things to do around town this month.
Jan. 7: Plant Swap. 6-7 p.m. Trussville Public Library. Exchange houseplants with others. Registration required. Ages 18 and older.
Jan. 15: Ferus Candle Pouring Party. 6:30 p.m. Ferus Artisan Ales, 101 Beech St. Gather your friends for a cozy and creative candle pouring party! Using natural soy wax and a variety of essential oils, you can design your own custom candles that not only look beautiful but also smell amazing. Pour, mix and match scents to create personalized candles that will bring warmth and light to any space. It’s the perfect way to unwind and get crafty with your favorite people.
Jan. 16: Cult Classic Cinema. 5:30-8 p.m. Trussville Public Library. An evening highlighting the other half of Trussville’s Core Collection of movies. This month’s movie is “The Goonies.” Ages 18 and older.
Community
Jan. 6: STEAM for Kids! 4-4:45 p.m. Trussville Public Library. Join Ms. Jan, the science lady of Dynamic Education Adventures, in the library auditorium for a hands-on application of STEAM! Grades K-6.
Jan. 8 and 22: Preschoolers at Play. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Trussville Public Library. Join us for a short movement and story with Ms. Alicia, followed by free play at several stations set up around the large auditorium with various toys. Birth through pre-K.
Jan. 13: Books and Brews. 7:15-8:30 p.m. Ferus Artisan Ales, 101 Beech St. An evening Adult Book Club. This month’s title is “Moonbound” by Robin Sloan. Ages 18 and older.
Jan. 15: Video Game Tournament for Teens. 4-5:30 p.m. Trussville Public Library. Video game tournament featuring a variety of games and prizes. Registration is required. Grades 6-12.
Jan. 16: Understanding Medicare. 2-3 p.m. Trussville Public Library. Educational seminar about Medicare options. Registration is required. Ages 18 and older.
Jan. 16: Kitchen Lab. 4-4:45 p.m. and 5-5:45 p.m. Trussville Public Library. We are diving into the engineering design process as we plan and build apple igloos! We will also put the process to the test with a STEAM challenge using marshmallows. Registration required. Grades K-5.
Jan. 23: Financial Foundations. 6-8 p.m. Trussville Public Library. A community workshop series. Young and middle adulthood come with what feels like an overwhelming number of financial decisions. Our panel of experts is here to help. Ages 18 and older.
Jan. 24: Classic Cinema. 2-4 p.m. Trussville Public Library. Popcorn and snacks will be provided. This month’s movie is “Torn Curtain” with Paul Newman and Julie Andrews. Registration is required. Ages 18 and older.
Jan. 25: Parachute Playtime. 11-11:30 a.m. Trussville Public Library. Join Ms. Alicia for parachute playtime as we have some fun with rhymes, songs and movement. Birth-pre-K.
Jan. 26: Trussville/Birmingham Pink Bride Wedding Show. Noon to 3 p.m. Trussville Civic Center, 5381 Trussville Clay Road. At The Pink Bride Wedding and Women’s Shows, you’ll find everything you need to plan your amazing wedding plus so much more. At the show, you’ll sample wedding cakes and delicious catered treats. You’ll discover the latest trends and chat with the most trusted local wedding pros. You’ll receive discounts and money-saving offers that are available only to those who attend. Plus, you’ll score some great swag and have the chance to win prizes.
Read the book “No Ordinary Sound.” Then, join us as we discuss the book and Melody (1964)! Participants will also play a themed game and make a craft together. Light snacks provided. Registration required. Grades K-5.
Jan. 31-Feb. 1: God’s Handiwork Women’s Conference. 7 p.m. First Baptist Church Trussville, 128 N. Chalkville Road. Please join us for the third annual Women's Conference! Lisa Allen of Proverbs 31 Ministries will be speaking about “God’s Handiwork” on Friday night. There will be desserts at the end of the evening, breakfast on Saturday morning and a conference T-shirt included in ticket cost. Lisa comes with a combined two decades of nonprofit leadership with Proverbs 31 Ministries as well as a staff of a large church as a women’s director. These 20 years of experience give her a unique connection to and understanding of women of faith, women pursuing faith and women desiring to walk out their faith authentically. Register at touchpoint.fbctrussville.org/OnlineReg/1409.
Music
Jan. 14 and 28: Trussville City Council. 6-7 p.m. Trussville City Hall,
Jan. 14: Ukulele Club. Trussville Public Library. 6:30-7:30 pm. Interested in learning the ukulele or looking for somewhere to play? We have a professional ukulele player here to help you learn and perfect your skills! Registration required. All ages.
Arts
Jan. 6: Crafty Collective. 5:30-7:30 p.m. Trussville Public Library. Start off the new year by creating a vision board! Registration required. Supplies will be provided by the library. Registration is required. Ages 18 and older.
Jan. 11: Craft Supply Swap. 1-2 p.m. Trussville Public Library. Bring your unwanted craft supplies to the library or stop by to find supplies for a new hobby at our craft supply swap! Ages 18 and older.
Jan. 13: Winter Painting for Teens. 4-5 p.m. Trussville Public Library. Teens, join us to paint a snowman! Registration required. Grades 6-12.
Jan. 13, 21 and 27: Learn to Knit. Trussville Public Library. 6-7:30 p.m. Join us for this four-part series of classes where attendees will be walked through the basic stitches of knitting and make a dishcloth! Registration required. Ages 18 and older.
Are we missing an event on our calendar? Let us know! Contact Taylor Bright at tbright@ starnesmedia.com with your event information. 1 2 3
Jan. 27: American Girl Club. 5-6 p.m. Trussville Public Library.
Did we miss something?
131 Main St.
COVER STORY: Mayor Buddy Choat reflects on ending time in office End of an era
By GARY LLOYD
Trussville Mayor Buddy Choat knew it was time to step down as mayor during a trip with his family last year. The mayor, who had overseen a major redevelopment of downtown and revitalized the area, will leave the office when his term ends in November.
Choat announced his decision during his State of the City address at the October Trussville Area Chamber of Commerce luncheon, a week after the vacation.
Choat and his wife, Ginny, traveled with one of their daughters, Katie, to Nova Scotia, to see the sights and experience the culture of the Celtic Colours International Festival.
“We had time to get away and just be up there and see the different part of the world that I’d never dreamed I’d go to,” Choat said. “I got my first passport. I’ve never even had a passport to travel anywhere. So, I thought, ‘This is pretty cool,’ and not that we’re going to travel every day or every month, but just to have that flexibility
to be able to kind of get in the car and go somewhere or do something.”
Choat has been in the workforce for 50 years. Like anyone else, it was just time. He has grandsons and wants to experience all that retirement life has to offer. He had discussed with his family not running for re-election in 2025, but the trip to Nova Scotia served as a final push.
“If I was going to make the announcement, I didn’t know what was the best time,” he said. “I don’t know whether to wait until after the first of the year. You don’t want too many people to maybe get involved too early, too late or whatever. But I was at peace with it.”
Choat was first elected as mayor in 2016 and then again in 2020. He previously served two terms on the Trussville City Council from 2008 until his election as mayor.
Choat said major accomplishments during his tenure include the Valley Road extension and downtown redevelopment, the latter of which dominated much of his mayoral run.
Buddy Choat, the Trussville mayor, visits the Trussville Entertainment District. Photo by Savannah Schmidt.
SPORTS
All-South Metro Volleyball
Vincent, Bromley make team
By KYLE PARMLEY
The 2024 high school volleyball season featured plenty of phenomenal individual and team seasons. With the quality of volleyball in the Birmingham area, simply being selected to the annual Starnes Media All-South Metro Team, in conjunction with Under the Lights, is an honor.
Chelsea senior Lauren Buchanan takes the overall Player of the Year award after capping off an illustrious career. After five years of trying, she helped her Hornets team get to the state tournament and to a final four finish for the first time in program history.
Mountain Brook’s Mae Mae Beatty is the Offensive Player of the Year after leading the way for the Spartans. Beatty has been a force on the outside for the last few years for Mountain Brook and really took on a leadership role for the team this year.
Hoover’s Sydney Durban is the Defensive Player of the Year after putting together one of the most productive campaigns imaginable for a libero. Durban’s defensive prowess was one of the reasons the Bucs advanced to the state final four for a second straight year.
► Player of the Year: Lauren Buchanan, Chelsea
► Offensive Player of the Year: Mae Mae Beatty, Mountain Brook
► Defensive Player of the Year: Sydney Durban, Hoover
► Coach of the Year: Jamie Gill, Chelsea
1ST TEAM
► Outside hitter: Lauren Buchanan, Chelsea. Likely the best player in program history, Buchanan posted 764 kills and 346 assists for the season for the Texas Tech signee.
► Outside hitter: Mae Mae Beatty, Mountain Brook. The Montevallo signee posted 462 kills and 281 digs for the Spartans.
► Outside hitter: Millie Burgess, Vestavia Hills, surpassed 1,000 career kills as a junior, going for 566 kills and 313 digs on the year.
► Outside hitter: Layla Smith, Hoover, posted 510 kills and 181 digs.
► Setter: Cara Belcher, Chelsea, finished with the most career assists in program history, posting 1,357 assists in her senior year before heading to UVA-Wise.
► Setter: Mia Wilson, Briarwood. The lone senior on Chris Camper’s first team,
posting 807 assists and 190 digs.
► Setter: Cailyn Kyes, Spain Park, set a school record with 895 assists to go along with 334 digs.
► Libero: Sydney Durban, Hoover, posted an eye-popping 870 digs in her senior season before heading to UAH.
► Libero: Ella Kate Wright, Mountain Brook, battled injury and still had 384 digs in a great season.
► Middle: Kennedy Vincent, Hewitt-Trussville. The senior had 227 kills and 113 blocks.
► Middle: Aubrie Lay, Oak Mountain, posted 189 kills in her final season before heading to Mississippi Christian University.
► Middle: Alexa Benda, Spain Park, capped her career with 279 kills and 112 blocks.
► Right side: Lila Willett, Chelsea. The Pearl River Community College commit had 222 kills for the year.
► Right side: Marion Haskell, John Carroll, posted 306 kills to lead the way for the Cavs.
► All-around: Jordan Madsen, Vestavia Hills. The two-sport athlete and versatile volleyball player had 325 kills and 123 digs.
► All-around: Olivia Guenster, Hoover, moved to the outside after beginning the season on defense and had 259 kills with 569 digs.
2ND TEAM
► Outside hitter: Bea Wiggins, Spain Park. The junior had a standout season, with 348 kills and 293 digs.
► Outside hitter: Alexis Rudolph, Chelsea. The sophomore had 377 kills.
► Outside hitter: Madelyn Bromley, Hewitt-Trussville. The Wallace State signee had 294 kills and 235 digs in a productive senior season.
► Outside hitter: Ellie Watts, Homewood, had a productive year with 206 kills and 208 digs for the Patriots.
► Setter: Grace Stewart, Mountain Brook. The senior racked up 847 assists and 214 digs in her first year as a starter.
► Setter: Madi Lopez, Hoover, had 596 assists and 280 digs as one of two setters.
► Setter: Addison Jenkins, Hoover, finished with 489 assists and 180 as one of two setters.
► Libero: Sophia Bagley, Chelsea. The junior stepped in and registered 375 digs.
► Libero: Camdyn Kyes, Spain Park. The eighth grader had 485 digs and 108 assists.
► Middle: Sydnie Broom, Hoover, posted 180 kills and 153 blocks.
► Middle: Ja’Niyah Mosley, Spain Park, posted 165 kills in a productive season.
► Middle: Cali Armstead, Homewood. The Berry College commit had 91 kills and 51 blocks for the year.
► Right side: Aliyah Pooler, Hoover, had 231 kills on the season.
► Right side: Betsy Smith, Oak Mountain, played multiple positions and finished with 375 assists and 190 digs.
► All-around: Caroline Whitehurst, Oak Mountain, put together a great season with 391 kills and 322 digs for the Eagles.
► All-around: Kate Gordon, Oak Mountain, finished with 437 assists, 203 digs and 104 aces in a productive all-around season.
HONORABLE MENTIONS
► Outside hitter: Mady Kirkpatrick, John Carroll; Reagan Gilbert, Spain Park; Julie Roberts, Briarwood.
► Setter: Kayleigh Nguyen, Hewitt-Trussville; Kam Coleman, Homewood; Isabella Marino, John Carroll.
► Libero: Christiana Callens, Hewitt-Trussville; Anaya Patel, Oak Mountain; Lillie Hill, Vestavia Hills; Amelia Browne, Hoover.
► Middle: Ally Ross, Oak Mountain; Ava Scott Windham, Vestavia Hills; Marley Cowan, Vestavia Hills; Clara Crawford, Briarwood.
► Right side: Kayla Terrell, Hoover; Eden Rainbolt, Hoover; Mae Noerager, Homewood.
Above: Hewitt’s Kennedy Vincent (22) spikes the ball over defenders during a match against Vestavia Hills at Vestavia Hills High School in October. Below: Hewitt’s Madelyn Bromley (0) hits the ball over the net. Photos by Savannah Schmidt.
SPONSORED CONTENT
The Lakeshore Foundation is for the whole family
The Lakeshore Foundation in Birmingham is a world leader in fitness, athletic performance and health promotion for people with disabilities, as well as veterans and seniors (with or without a disability).
A nonprofit founded in 1984, the foundation serves about 4,000 people annually and is a leader in paralympic and adaptive sports training, disability advocacy and inclusive fitness.
The Lakeshore Foundation is also a long-time family affair for the Kambers of Homewood.
Daniel Kamber is a Membership Professional and a Masters Swim Coach at the facility.
In addition, his “whole family is active at the Lakeshore Foundation,”
Daniel said. “My father Michael and my mom Sherry are both highly involved, and my dad serves on the board.”
Last year, the Lakeshore Foundation leveraged its decades of experience in adaptive sports and opened the new Sports Science & Performance Center (SSPC).
Lakeshore Foundation
• Where: 4000 Ridgeway Drive
• Call: 205-313-7400
• Web: lakeshore.org/sspc
The SSPC provides disabled athletes with an unrivaled training experience at a great facility along with data-driven workouts, personalized meal plans and help with mental performance
“As an athlete with a disability, the presence of the SSPC at Lakeshore Foundation is incredibly powerful,”
Daniel says.
Daniel is a paralympic swimmer and was a member of the U.S. Paralympic National Team in 2004 in Greece and in 2011 at the Para PanAm Games in Mexico.
SSPC serves elite athletes and aspiring athletes, with or without disabilities, along with a diverse roster of seniors and other clients who are seeking a supportive facility where they can maximize their fitness,
Sherry Kamber trains with her son Daniel Kamber at the Lakeshore Foundation. Daniel Kamber works with visitors of the facility, and his mother uses the facility for her workouts.
strength and balance.
This includes Sherry.
Six months ago, she also began training with Brandon Kane at the
SSPC to build more muscle and improve her flexibility and balance.
Sherry does weightlifting, the medicine ball, TRX and lots of balance moves.
“I saw and felt results and felt stronger,” Sherry said. “My program is based on scientific data.”
“My mother tells me all the time she is loving it and getting stronger every day,” Daniel said. “I notice also.”
“SSPC is the perfect fit for someone who really wants to see results and not just go through the motions,” Sherry said.
“I enjoy having my mother active in the SSPC,” Daniel said.
Sherry also enjoys daily walks at the field house at the foundation.
“It’s especially nice to walk with all the friends that I have made on the track,” she says.
For more about the Lakeshore Foundation, including volunteer opportunities, call 205-313-7400 or go to lakeshore.org
For more information about the SSPC, go online to lakeshore.org/sspc.
SPORTS
All-South Metro Football
Parker Floyd named Defensive Player of the Year
By KYLE PARMLEY
The 2024 high school football season was one to remember. In the Under the Lights coverage area, eight of the 11 teams qualified for the playoffs, with Hoover making the deepest run, getting to the Class 7A semifinals.
The annual Starnes Media All-South Metro Football Team, in conjunction with Under the Lights, has been selected to honor the top performers from the season.
Spain Park junior quarterback Brock Bradley had an outstanding season to earn Player of the Year honors. Bradley led the Jags to 12 straight wins and an appearance in the Class 6A quarterfinals. He finished the year with 2,667 passing yards and 32 touchdowns, adding six rushing touchdowns as well.
Mountain Brook junior running back Stuart Andrews was named the Offensive Player of the Year after emerging as the Spartans’ workhorse. Andrews carried the ball 25 times per game and excelled in an important role in the Mountain Brook offense.
Hewitt-Trussville junior linebacker Parker Floyd is the Defensive Player of the Year after helping lead the Huskies to the best defense in Class 7A. The Huskies allowed just 9.5 points per game all season. Floyd totaled 105 tackles on the year and scored five offensive touchdowns as well.
Here is the team in its entirety:
► Player of the Year: Brock Bradley, Spain Park
► Offensive Player of the Year: Stuart Andrews, Mountain Brook
► Defensive Player of the Year: Parker Floyd, Hewitt-Trussville
► Coach of the Year: Chip English, Hoover
1ST TEAM OFFENSE
► QB: Brock Bradley, Spain Park; named Player of the
Year after an outstanding season.
► QB: Will O’Dell, Oak Mountain; a breakout season for the dual-threat, throwing for nearly 2,000 yards and rushing for more than 1,000 yards.
► RB: Stuart Andrews, Mountain Brook; named Offensive Player of the Year after running for 1,805 yards.
► RB: Chase Stracener, Chelsea; ran for 1,601 yards and scored 17 touchdowns.
► WR: Corey Barber, Spain Park; the leading receiver in the area, going for 1,429 yards and 17 touchdowns on 74 catches.
► WR: Kylen Newell, Homewood; went over 1,000 receiving yards, scoring eight touchdowns.
► WR: Zach Fitzgerald, Oak Mountain; broke out in his senior season, catching 51 passes for 904 yards.
► TE: Bruce Littleton, Vestavia Hills; eclipsed 1,000 total yards as a do-it-all back for the Rebels.
► OL: Daniel Ellis, Mountain Brook; allowed no sacks and was selected for the Alabama/Mississippi All-Star Classic.
► OL: Walker Williams, Homewood; allowed only one sack and led a potent Homewood offense up front.
► OL: Mason Holloway, Hewitt-Trussville; a two-year starter and the top lineman for the Huskies.
► OL: JD Livingston, Vestavia Hills; graded out at 91% on the year for a productive Rebels offense.
► OL: Trot English, Hoover; Alabama-Mississippi AllStar for the Bucs.
► ATH: Luke Reynolds, Briarwood; did everything for the Lions, scoring 16 touchdowns despite missing three
Hewitt-Trussville’s Parker Floyd (8) makes a tackle against Vestavia Hills. Floyd was named the All-South Metro Defensive Player of the Year after totaling 105 tackles. Photo by David Leong.
PHILLIPS MCINTYRE IGBINOGHENE
games.
► ATH: Mac Beason, Hoover; threw for 2,315 yards and 19 touchdowns, while averaging 35 yards per punt.
► K: Whit Armistead, Homewood; made 9-of-11 field goals with a long of 42 yards.
► P: Owen Simpson, Vestavia Hills; averaged 45.5 yards per punt, along with converting all of his extra points.
► ST: Jackson Kalnoske, Chelsea; the senior had no bad snaps in three years as a starter.
1ST TEAM DEFENSE
► DL: Garrett Witherington, Briarwood; had 13 tackles for loss and 19 quarterback pressures as the focal point of the Lions’ defense.
► DL: Romello Cooper, Chelsea; racked up 56 tackles, 11 tackles for loss and 7.5 sacks.
► DL: Colton McIntyre, Clay-Chalkville; one of the Cougars’ top players as a sophomore, finishing with eight sacks.
► DL: PaLanding Drammeh, Hoover; racked up 50 tackles with five sacks.
► LB: Grayson Bruno, Vestavia Hills; the leading tackler for the Rebels with 89 tackles.
► LB: Cameron Torbor, Hoover; racked up 89 tackles and eight sacks in a dominant season.
► LB: NaKarius Allen, Clay-Chalkville; went for 76 tackles and notched eight sacks.
► LB: De’Narrius Crawford, Hewitt-Trussville; posted 91 tackles and broke up five passes.
► DB: Spence Hanna, Vestavia Hills; top producer for the Rebels, finishing with 88 tackles.
► DB: Harris Crumpton, Mountain Brook; notched 90 tackles and broke up four passes.
► DB: Xavier Starks, Clay-Chalkville; the junior posted 70 tackles.
► DB: Will Phillips, Hewitt-Trussville; the top defensive back for the Huskies, registering 52 tackles along with returning punts.
► ATH: Parker Floyd, Hewitt-Trussville; won Defensive Player of the Year after finishing with 105 tackles.
► ATH: Michael Igbinoghene, Hewitt-Trussville; the Tulane signee scored four offensive touchdowns, deflected three passes and made plays on special teams.
2ND TEAM OFFENSE
► QB: Will Myers, Homewood; despite missing two games, threw for 1,187 yards and totaled 19 touchdowns.
► QB: Aaron Frye, Clay-Chalkville; threw for 2,160 yards with 20 total touchdowns in his first year as starter.
► RB: Dakarai Shanks, Spain Park; ran for 1,292 yards and scored 13 total touchdowns.
► RB: Aaron Osley, Clay-Chalkville; one of four backs
in the area to eclipse 1,000 rushing yards.
► WR: Aubrey Walker, John Carroll; played both ways for the Cavs, racking up 658 receiving yards and six touchdowns.
► WR: Dylan Cope, Hewitt-Trussville; led the Huskies with 503 receiving yards and five touchdowns.
► WR: CJ Durbin, Chelsea; a top target for the resurgent Hornets, catching 53 passes for 576 yards.
► TE: Jabari Staples, Clay-Chalkville; made the most of his 24 grabs, scoring eight touchdowns.
► OL: Bradley Haizlip, Oak Mountain; the junior led the Eagles’ offensive line in pancakes.
► OL: Rocco Gray, Mountain Brook; two-year starter and graded out at 94%.
► OL: Toby Richard, Hoover; the 6-foot-3, 305-pound lineman helped lead the Bucs to the semifinals.
► OL: Landon Page, Vestavia Hills; the senior had 85 knockdowns on the season.
► OL: Anthony Mokry, John Carroll; the Cavs’ center was the team’s top lineman.
► ATH: Jonah Winston, Hoover: played several roles for the Bucs offense, scoring five rushing touchdowns and three receiving touchdowns and playing some quarterback.
► ATH: Charlie Taaffe, Vestavia Hills; accounted for nearly 2,500 total yards in first year as starting quarterback.
► K: Josh Renfro, Oak Mountain; capped off his season with a 43-yard game-winning field goal against Chelsea.
► P: Drew Ollis, Hewitt-Trussville; averaged 39.8 yards per punt along with playing defensive line.
► ST: Hardy Butler, Homewood; the junior long snapper has been rated one of the top in his class.
► 2ND TEAM Defense
► DL: Ethan Walton, Oak Mountain; totaled 58 tackles, including 16 for loss.
► DL: Boyd Cooper, Mountain Brook; finished with 47 tackles, three forced fumbles and 11 quarterback pressures.
► DL: Justyn Hartley, Hoover; had seven sacks to lead the Bucs defense.
► DL: Patrick Smith, Clay-Chalkville; had six sacks for the Cougars.
► LB: Hampton King, Mountain Brook; had 66 tackles, including 10 for loss.
► LB: Briston Hardy, Chelsea; posted 128 total tackles on the year, with five pass breakups among several impressive stats.
► LB: Trust Darnell, Homewood; finished with 96 tackles, including 12 for loss.
► LB: EJ Kerley, Spain Park; posted 140 tackles, tops in the area.
► DB: CJ Tidmore, Homewood; posted 78 tackles from the secondary.
► DB: Deon Callins, Clay-Chalkville; had 60 tackles.
► DB: Sam Canale, Briarwood; emerged as a top player for the Lions, posting 58 tackles and three interceptions.
► DB: Joe Cross, Spain Park; intercepted five passes.
► ATH: Jamar Moultrie, Hoover; played defensive back and returned kicks for the Bucs.
► ATH: Rylan Hamm, Briarwood; the Lions’ leading tackler with 78 tackles on the year.
HONORABLE MENTION OFFENSE
► RB: Marty Myricks, Oak Mountain; Evan Ausmer, Homewood; Deuce Alston, Hewitt-Trussville; James Kelly, Hewitt-Trussville; Joshua Woods, Clay-Chalkville; CJ Cowley, Spain Park.
► WR: Chris Warren, Hoover.
► TE: Jackson Martin, Hewitt-Trussville; Brayden Robertson, Briarwood.
► OL: Caleb Boylan, Vestavia Hills; Luke Kelly, Oak Mountain; Trot English, Hoover; Storm Fain, Hoover; Christian Bennett, Clay-Chalkville; JT Jones, Clay-Chalkville; Adam Brooks, Chelsea; Will Pohlmann, Chelsea; Barnabas Karanja, Briarwood; Hudson Reed, Spain Park; Jackson Bell, Spain Park; Carter Fountain, Briarwood.
► K: Garrett Heinemann, Briarwood; Joseph Del Toro, Clay-Chalkville.
► ATH: Kaleb Carson, Homewood; CJ Davis, Hewitt-Trussville.
HONORABLE
MENTION DEFENSE
► DL: Joey Lewis, Oak Mountain; Will Ray, Homewood; Tyson Bacon, Hoover; D’ante Seals, Hewitt-Trussville; Baasel Alabsi, Hewitt-Trussville; Randell Cole, Clay-Chalkville; Nic Gagliano, John Carroll.
► LB: Jacob Watson, Vestavia Hills; William Yoder, Oak Mountain; Colton Moore, Oak Mountain; Miller Lee, Mountain Brook; Joey Luckianow, Homewood; Isaiah Brown, Clay-Chalkville; Porter Schott, Chelsea; Ethan Prickett, Chelsea; Brayden Matherson, Spain Park; Owen Robinson, Hewitt-Trussville; Trey Sanders, Hoover.
► DB: Jayden Aparicio-Bailey, Oak Mountain; Kolby King, Oak Mountain; DK Bolden, Hoover; Maleik Smiley, Homewood; John Griffin, Homewood; Caden Ali, Hewitt-Trussville; Sam Parrish, Chelsea.
Starnes Media's publications cover several communities throughout the Birmingham metro area. Schools included for consideration on this team were Briarwood, Chelsea, Clay-Chalkville, Hewitt-Trussville, Homewood, Hoover, John Carroll, Mountain Brook, Oak Mountain, Spain Park and Vestavia Hills. The team was selected by Starnes Media’s sports department, in collaboration with the coaches.
STARKS
CRAWFORD
ALLEN
COMMUNITY
Tragedy, awakening lead to healing and artist’s life
By BLAIR MOORE
Growing up, Kasey Summers didn’t see herself as a creative person. A dedicated softball player, she was focused on sports and other activities. Becoming a professional artist was the last thing she imagined. Yet at the age of 25, that’s exactly what happened.
Her journey into art began unexpectedly during a painful period of her life. With an 18-month-old daughter, Ellie, and a second child on the way with her husband, Taylor, Summers experienced a devastating miscarriage. About a week into her grieving, she awoke suddenly in the middle of the night.
“I felt like God was telling me to get up, grab Ellie’s paints and brushes, and create something,” she said.
So, using her daughter’s kiddie art supplies, Kasey Summers painted a simple Christmas tree. The experience brought her peace, and since then painting has been a part of her healing journey and her life.
“I still have that Christmas tree painting,” she said. “It brought healing when I needed it most, and it’s still one of my favorite pieces to this day.”
As Summers began painting regularly as a cathartic outlet, her artistic style developed. She began painting crosses, angels and other spiritually inspired works that reflect her faith and resonate with her community.
“People just started asking for my pieces, so I pretty much began selling right away,” she said. The success led to her first solo show, which sold out, and invitations to sell her work across the South.
“It all happened so fast — soon I was selling out at shows, teaching paint classes, and it just kept growing. It’s been mind-blowing,” she said.
Despite the demand, Summers remains humble about her talent.
“I can’t even say that I’m naturally good at this,” she said. “Even now, calling myself an artist feels strange. I have to keep reminding myself — this is God’s work. He’s the one who made all of this happen.”
She finds joy in the sense of community that her art has fostered. “People have asked me to host paint parties and teach classes, and it has become about so much more than just the art itself,” she said.
“Before my miscarriage, I never owned paint — never even thought about it,” Summers said. “I had no idea six years ago that this would become a new path for me.”
Her message to others considering a new endeavor in 2025 is simple: “Just try it. You might discover a part of yourself you never knew existed.”
Find out more about her work online at kaseysummersart.square.site or on Instagram @kaseysummersart.
Faces of Trussville
Ms. Alicia’s storytelling spirit
By SAVANNAH SCHMIDT
Alicia Eyer’s animated storytelling awakens the learning spirit of kids every week at Trussville Public Library.
After attaining her master’s degree in elementary education and working at several libraries in Birmingham, Eyer settled at TPL as the resident storyteller and youth services librarian.
During Thursday storytime, Eyer focuses on “telling stories, not just reading them.” To accommodate both babies and toddlers, she uses engaging elements like puppets, songs, crafts and hand motions.
During her six years at the library, Eyer has seen children grow up through her storytime.
“It’s a wonderful feeling to know I’ve made an impression,” she said.
Alicia Eyer leads children’s storytime every week at Trussville Public Library. For her lesson on Dec. 5, she talked about penguins using educational books and puppets.
Kasey Summers, an artist living in the Trussville area, makes textured paintings with intricate details and gold and white colors. Photo courtesy of Kasey Summers.
Life Actually By Kari Kampakis
Want joy and connection with your teen? Choose your words (and timing) carefully
After parenting for 21 years, I've realized my best lessons came from my mistakes.
One big lesson I've learned from parenting teenagers is the need to choose my words and timing well. By nature, I'm pretty direct, but direct words at the wrong time will shut a teenager down. It ruins moments and ends conversations.
I speak from experience, and one example of how I finally got this right happened when my daughter was 15. It was a gorgeous fall day, and as we drove in the car together, we had an amazing conversation. The words flowed easily, and so did the laughter.
But as I parked in the driveway, and glanced over at my daughter to savor the high of our connection, my thoughts suddenly shifted. The sunlight on her face highlighted an area of concern, and immediately, my mind switched into mom mode.
Her acne was back — looking flared up and red.
I opened my mouth to ask if she’d taken her acne medication, but something stopped me. I think it was God, telling me not to go there. Now was not the time, and being direct was not the way.
Months earlier, when I asked this same question during another breakout, my daughter’s face fell as she answered, “Yes, I’m taking it. I know my face looks terrible.”
Kampakis
She was aware of the issue, she was using her creams and she didn’t need my reminder. Her acne had become a sensitive subject, and after multiple trips to the dermatologist, we
were still searching for the best remedy.
When my daughter got out of the car that day still happy from our time together, I knew I’d made the right choice. By holding my tongue, I didn’t ruin the moment or undo the bonding that happened during our car ride. I could save that acne conversation for a later time.
I’ve ruined other moments, however, by blurting out the first thought that came to mind. I’ve spoken carelessly and bluntly and seen the hurt reactions on my daughters’ faces.
Even if we stay on our best behavior for the world, at home we drop our guards. We relax our filters and speak the unvarnished and
sometimes painful truth.
While most of us would never intentionally hurt our kids, we often use language that's more hurtful than helpful. But words have power, and the words we speak as moms hold superpowers. With teenagers, who don’t forget what’s said to them, words can wreck a relationship.
Rather than dwell on these mistakes, apologize and do better moving forward. Kids are forgiving when we own up to our part, and as we improve our language at home, we set a higher bar for everyone. We teach our teenagers to be intentional with their words too, to use their power for good and become the kind of person who others respect and want to listen to.
Kari Kubiszyn Kampakis is a mom of four girls, author, speaker, and blogger.
It’s a Matter of Life & Breath
At Grandview Freestanding Emergency Department, we’re prepared for life’s critical moments. Our ER provides rapid evaluation and treatment for serious injury and illness – with 24/7 access to imaging and lab services. Patients also have access to Grandview Medical Center’s surgical and medical resources for continued specialty care if needed. From treatment for broken bones to care for life-threatening conditions, our dedicated team is ready.
For more information, visit GrandviewEmergencyRoom.com or scan the QR code.
Freestanding Emergency Department 5542 Vanlerberghe Lane, Trussville
In an emergency, call 911 or go to the closest ER.