Cahaba Sun August 2023

Now Open

ClosER .

A New, Full-Service ER Now Open in Trussville

When someone in your family needs emergency care, you want it fast. And now, you’ll get the same quality emergency care that is available at Grandview Medical Center in our new Freestanding Emergency Department in Trussville. From treatment for broken bones to care for life-threatening conditions, count on the dedicated team at our new location.

(Located off Highway 11 at The Park at Hamilton Place behind the Trussville Board of Education Building)

FSEDGrandviewHealth.com

• 9 exam rooms

• Fast Track rooms

• Imaging services include CT, X-ray and ultrasound

• Heliport on site

If you’re experiencing a medical emergency, call 911.

5542 Vanlerberghe Lane, Trussville

EDITOR’S NOTE | KYLE PARMLEY

It comes so quickly now, doesn’t it?

I remember when I was younger, the school years took an eternity, while the two months out for summer were pretty lengthy as well.

These days, it seems as if the school years and summers just fly by. I can easily recall being in the thick of football season last fall. It seems like only a month or two ago.

And don’t get me started on how quickly summer comes and goes. Once the spring sports and graduations conclude, I only get a couple weeks to recuperate before I’m right back in the thick of football season, working on the Under the Lights preseason football magazine that we put together for each year.

The seasons get shorter the older we get, and it makes me realize more and more how much of a gift each day is.

I hope the school year gets off to a great start for everyone! Thanks as always for reading.

PHOTO OF THE MONTH

Please Support Our Community Partners

Bedzzz Express (20)

Birmingham Barons (15)

Birmingham Orthodontics (1)

Bromberg’s (9)

Budget Blinds (13)

Children’s of Alabama (5)

Clearview Strategy Partners (17)

Community Grief Support Service (7)

Grandview Medical (3)

Image Hive (13)

Find Us

Legacy Ridge Assisted Living (19)

RealtySouth - Lee Marlow (15)

Southern Blood Services (9)

Southern Home Structural Repair Specialists (7)

Trussville Gas and Water (5)

Vapor Ministries/Thrift Store (2)

Window World of Central Alabama (2)

Pick up the latest issue of Cahaba Sun at the following locations:

► Edgar’s Bakery

► Trussville Area Chamber of Commerce

► Trussville Civic Center

► Trussville Gas and Water

► Trussville Police Department

► Trussville Public Library

Want to join this list or get Cahaba Sun mailed to your home? Contact Dan at dan@starnesmedia.com.

Publisher:

Community Editors: Sports Editor: Photo Editor: Design Editor: Page Designer: Production Assistant:

Contributing Writers: Graphic Designer: Client Success Specialist: Business Development Exec: Business Development Rep:

Operations Specialist:

Dan Starnes

Kyle Parmley

Jon Anderson

Leah Ingram Eagle

Kyle Parmley

Erin Nelson

Melanie Viering

Ted Perry

Simeon Delante

Sean Dietrich

Gary Lloyd

Loyd McIntosh

Emily VanderMey

Warren Caldwell

Don Harris

Madison Gaines

Sarah Villar

For advertising contact: dan@starnesmedia.com

Contact Information: Cahaba Sun P.O. Box 530341 Birmingham, AL 35253 (205) 313-1780 dan@starnesmedia.com

Please submit all articles, information and photos to: kparmley@starnesmedia.com P.O. Box 530341 Birmingham, AL 35253

Published by: Cahaba Sun LLC

Legals: Cahaba Sun is published monthly. Reproduction or use of editorial or graphic content without prior permission is prohibited. Cahaba Sun is designed to inform the Trussville community of area school, family and community events. Information in Cahaba Sun is gathered from sources considered reliable but the accuracy cannot be guaranteed. All articles/photos submitted become the property of Cahaba Sun. We reserve the right to edit articles/photos as deemed necessary and are under no obligation to publish or return photos submitted. Inaccuracies or errors should be brought to the attention of the publisher at (205) 313-1780 or by email.

Please recycle this paper.

Atlas Linville, 3, and Harper Moses, 4, smile and laugh as Beth Moses pushes them on a swing, while Moses talks with Trezmun Linville at the park by the Trussville Public Library on July 15. Photo by Erin Nelson.

schools Superintendent Patrick Martin speaks with administrators during an administrative retreat at the central office to set the foundation for the upcoming school year. Photo by Erin Nelson.

BUSINESS Business Happenings

NEWS AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS

America’s First Federal Credit Union, which has an office at 1910 Gadsden Highway, in June made Forbes’ list of America’s best credit unions based on customers surveys and online reviews. One hundred and forty-seven credit unions, including four in Alabama, made the list. Credit unions were rated based on customer service, quality of financial advice, transparent and reasonable fees, ease of website navigation, on-location branch services and an overall level of trust. Credit unions with locations in more than 15 states were not considered. Others in Alabama that made the list were All In Credit Union in Daleville, Five Star Credit Union in Dothan and Redstone Federal Credit Union in Huntsville.

205-655-3360, amfirst.org

Steele Hall Brewing open for business

By LOYD MCINTOSH

Phil Boozer, the senior vice president and chief sales officer for America’s First Federal Credit Union was selected by the League of Southeastern Credit Unions as Alabama’s Credit Union Professional of the Year. 205-655-3360, amfirst.org

ANNIVERSARIES

Axe Downtown, 211 Main St., is celebrating its first anniversary. Patrons can book axe-throwing sessions by the hour as well as enjoy the pool tables, snacks, beer and soft drinks. 205-537-1029, axedowntown.com

Barnett Furniture, 6961 Gadsden Highway, is celebrating 63 years in business this August.

205-655-7049, barnettfurniture.com

Chas Brown State Farm, 7129 Gadsden Highway, Suite 207, is celebrating their fifth year in business after opening in August of 2019.

205-854-8339, cbrown.biz

BUSINESS NEWS TO SHARE?

If you have news to share with the community about a brick-and-mortar business in Trussville or the greater Birmingham area, let us know at starnesmedia.com/business-happenings

Trussville has a new place to belly up to the bar for a nice cold one. Following months of planning and renovations, Steele Hall Brewing opened for business in the spring and has developed a reputation for its innovative craft beer, as well as its fun and relaxed atmosphere.

The brewery is the brainchild of Eric Mitchell — a 2006 graduate of Clay-Chalkville High School — and Scott Worthington — a 1999 graduate of Chelsea High School — who caught the microbrewery bug while students at Auburn University.

“We were both home brewing in college and it just kind of fell in place after that,” Worthington said. “I fell in love with making craft beer and it just evolved from there. I fell in love with the environment as well.”

The friends each made their way to Charlotte, North Carolina, following graduation, getting involved in the city’s microbrewing scene. They initially found jobs working at a brewpub.

After approximately five years, the pair moved on to other opportunities, Mitchell leaving first for Pinehurst Brewing Company and Worthington for Heist Brewing. However, the friends kept in touch, often discussing plans to move back home and start their own brewery.

“Both of us being from the Birmingham area, we knew that we wanted to move back and do something like what we've done here at Steele Hall,” Mitchell said.

Mitchell and Worthington moved into the location most recently occupied by Slagheap Brewery, which closed in mid-2022. However, the building dates back to the city’s early days, serving the community as the Trussville Ice House for decades.

Fortunately for Mitchell and Worthington, the building was not only in great shape but was already configured for a brewery and needed only minor renovations.

“We were able to reuse all of the brewing equipment for our own agenda,” Mitchell said. “Most of the work was done to the exterior of the building, except for the parking lot and turning it into a nice little hangout area.”

What the owners hope will set them apart is their inventive approach to brewing craft beer, even though the market is crowded. Mitchell and Worthington are interested in experimenting with different types of hops and styles.

"It’s definitely getting harder to stand out these days, trends are getting hyper-focused on two or three different styles. But within those parameters there is a lot of variance," Worthington said. "I think we tried to just push the boundaries on finding the perfect blend between in-yourface flavor and drinkability.”

“We want you to remember our beer but we also want you to be able to sit and drink three or four in a sitting and not get tired of each individual beer that we make,” Mitchell added.

Steele Hall Brewing opened “under the radar” April 21, just hours after passing final inspection.

“We had all our permits and everything in place, so we scrambled to get whoever was available on our staff that day,” Worthington said. “We opened on three hours' notice, just by word of mouth and friends and family.”

While it’s only been a few months since the doors opened, Steele Hall has already established itself within the Trussville Entertainment District and the entire community that both Mitchell and Worthington now call home.

“We're happy to be here and happy to be part of this community,” Mitchell said. “It's what we set out to do; focus on being a community brewery and the entertainment district just gave us the best platform to showcase who we are.”

Steele Hall is located at 227 Main Street in downtown Trussville and is open Tuesdays through Thursdays from 3 to 9 p.m., Fridays from 1 to 10 p.m., Saturdays from noon to 10 p.m. and Sundays from noon to 7 p.m. Learn more at steelehallbrewingco.com.

Scott Worthington, co-owner of Steele Hall Brewing, pours a glass of the Camellia IPA at the brewery. Steele Hall Brewing has 15 options for guests and brews all beer in-house.

Photo by Erin Nelson.

Beautification Board announces winners

The Trussville Beautification Board recently announced winners for its annual beautification contest.

► Best Home Landscape Design: First place: Jim Meads, 6834 Ziklag Circle; Second place: Jan Monski, 7304 Old Mill Trail

► Best Use of Color: First place: Billy Morrison, 407 Rockridge Ave.; Second place: Charles Varner, 4759 Kendall Circle

► Best Business: First place: Steele Hall Brewery, 227 Main St.; Second place: Edgars, 158 Main St.

► Best Turf: First place: Dianne Bobo, 308 Tutwiler Dr.; Second place: Jim and Monica Kimbrough, 3370 Robert Lee Road.

► Best Home Overall: First place: Brian Gray, 302 Rockridge Ave.; Second place: Kristi Ennis, 211 Oak St. – Submitted by Melanie Trimm.

Left: Brian Gray’s home on Rockridge Avenue won best home overall during the Trussville Beautification Board’s annual beautification contest. Right: Steele Hall Brewery won the best business award. Photos courtesy of Melodie Trimm.

Logan McCool thrives despite spina bifida diagnosis

By LOYD MCINTOSH

The Trussville Rotary Club recently had a special guest in May as they welcomed Logan McCool, a precocious soon-to-be first grader. Along with her parents, Candice and James, Logan was on hand to celebrate her life and strength in the face of adversity due to a severe form of spina bifida.

The McCools, who have been married 11 years, tried for several years to start a family, but faced difficulties along the way. Candice McCool endured two miscarriages and lost her left fallopian tube before finally becoming pregnant with Logan. However, during a 17-week ultrasound, in which they fully inspected the baby’s anatomy, the McCools were informed there were some problems with the baby.

“The blood test ahead of time looked great, but the anatomy scan showed some abnormalities,” Candice said. “They sent us to a high-risk OB, and that is the one who diagnosed her with spina bifida.”

Specifically, the McCools’ baby was diagnosed with a form of spina bifida, myelomeningoceles, that is both rare and the most severe. In Logan’s case, the opening in her back was complete, all the way down to the spine, and was an abnormally large opening, extending from her L1 vertebrae to her L5 vertebrae. As he explained the diagnosis, Candice said the obstetrician painted a stark and depressing picture of what was to come.

“High-risk OBs, in their defense, don’t get to see the kids after they’re born and see what kind of quality of life they have. They’re basically just regurgitating what they learned in books,” she said.

“He said with her lesion level starting at L1, she would have no quality of life. She wouldn’t be able to eat or breathe on her own, she would not be able to control her bowel and bladder, she would have to wear a trach and she may die of SIDS shortly after birth,” Candice added. “He just gave us such a bleak prognosis.”

During the discussion, the obstetrician offered to put the McCools in touch with a specialist in Georgia who could help them terminate the pregnancy. However, after enduring so much difficulty in trying to start their family, the McCools refused to entertain the idea, even as they prepared for the worst and leaned on their faith and network of friends and family for support.

“First of all, we were devastated. This was a child that we had wanted so dearly and I had done everything right,” Candice said. “My husband and I said ‘No. She is loved. We have wanted this child for many, many years.’ And so we just put it in God’s hands.”

“We had a really great network of friends in our church group that just basically laid hands on us,” she added. “That’s what got us through the unknown of being pregnant with her, because we didn’t know what to expect when she was born.”

The McCools were soon referred to Dr. Jeffrey Blount, chief of pediatric neurosurgery with the Comprehensive Spina Bifida Program at Children’s Hospital of Alabama. While Dr. Blount wasn’t able to predict exactly what the McCools’ lives would be like once Logan was born, he was calm, reassuring and knowledgeable. A self-described planner by nature, Candice said Dr. Blount and the entire team in the spina bifida clinic helped her calm her fears and provided a more positive glimpse of what to expect.

“For an entire hour, he sat down with us and said, ‘Let me tell you about the kind of life that these kids can have,” she said.

“‘You know, we don’t know what to expect, so I can give you the best-case scenario.’”

During the meeting, Candice said Dr. Blount laid out the care plan once Logan arrived, including the number and types of surgeries she would need within 24 hours after birth, and how they would manage bowel and bladder issues as Logan grows. Best of all, Blount informed the McCools that Logan’s brain was in good shape and not to expect any cognitive delays.

Logan is now six years old and will begin first grade in the fall. She is bright, interested in everything and loves to tell jokes, including a knee slapper she told to this reporter: “How do you make a robot mad? By pushing his buttons.”

Additionally, Logan doesn’t let using a wheelchair slow her down. She’s involved in tons of extracurricular activities, with accommodations made for her to ensure she’s able to participate with other children. “She’s involved in everything now from horseback riding to karate twice a week. She has done dance, ballet and tap, and they have just figured out ways for her to participate using her hands,” Candice said.

Logan is one of ten children chosen to represent the Children’s Miracle Network. Throughout the nation, her face and story can be seen in television commercials, print ads and other media to help raise funds for the organization.

“When she was born, she defied all the odds,” Candice said. “She is our little miracle child.”

Above left: Logan pours a measuring cup of water into a bowl as she mixes a protein pancake while helping in the kitchen. Above right: Logan participates in a karate class at Birmingham Martial Arts in Trussville. Left: Logan works on training her service dog, Shiloh.

Logan McCool, 6, picks up colored gems using a pen tool as she works on a diamond painting at her home. McCool’s diamond art helps with her fine motor skills.

Photos by Erin Nelson.

Rotary Daybreak Club celebrates successful year

The Trussville Rotary Daybreak Club recently recognized many notable events over the last year under the leadership of Club President Jamie Townes. Townes’s term as president ended June 28, and the gavel was passed to incoming President Kristi Bradford.

Among the accomplishments for the club over the last year:

► Made it “personal,” with several members recording “What's Your Why” videos for the club's Facebook page

► Worked to highlight its members serving in non-Rotary events

► Socials were hosted at Christmas, at the Rotary Clock dedication and at a Barons baseball game

► Institution of a new member process

► Laid the groundwork for an international grant

► Started a vocational scholarship program

► Started a grant to support Leadership HT projects

► Did four in-meeting service projects

► Did eight community service projects

► Held a toy drive for the Trussville Fire Department

► Speakers’ program was scheduled at least four months in advance and included a variety of speakers and interests

► Initiated a quarterly Spirit of Service Awards

Leadership Trussville’s Executive Director Kristi Bradford will serve as President of the Trussville Rotary Daybreak Club for the 2023-24 year.

Bradford has been a member of the club since June 2020. She was a featured speaker at a club meeting just a few months before and, after seeing how active the club was and how close the members were, she knew she wanted to be involved.

“I realized it was the people who drew me into this club,” she said. “With every meeting I attended, the cohesiveness, sense of caring for one another and dedication to community beyond these walls were what kept me coming.”

Bradford thanked outgoing President Jamie Townes for her service as president.

“Thank you, Jamie, for an active year, filled with so many things that fortified us as a club: solidifying our bylaws, charting a strategic plan, getting our foundation back on track after a three-year hiatus, and you found a way to make all of us Paul

Harris fellows,” Bradford said.

The club also inducted its officers, directors and committee chairs for the 2023-24 year.

Josh Wooten of Cory Watson Investigators is president-elect; Brad Wideman of Brookwood Baptist Medical Center is president-elect-nominee; Jamie Townes of EIB Systems is past president; Sandra Vernon of Trussville City Schools is secretary; and Jeremy Tuggle of Bryant Bank is treasurer.

Directors for the coming year, in addition to the abovenamed officers, are: Van Horne (retired); Renee LeCroy (Atlanta Flooring); Diane Poole (Leeds Area Chamber of Commerce); and Alan Taylor (First Baptist Church Trussville). Committee chairs named for the coming year are: Golf Fundraising, Josh Wooten; Trivia Fundraising, Clarissa Winchester (Cruise Planners); Social Events, Bonnie Hicks (ReMax Southern Homes 280) and Brian Fisher (Community Bank); Membership, Renee LeCroy (Atlanta Flooring); Scholarships, Jimmy Burns (Wells Fargo Investments); Community Service, David Como (First Bank Mortgage); International Service, Marty Adams (Innovative Financial Services); Club Foundation Chair, Josh Wooten; Student/Youth Services, Fran Aldridge (Keller Williams Realty); Programs, Brad Wideman (Brookwood Hospital) and Adam Seal (Petra RMS); Club Grants, John Griscom (retired); Sergeant-at-Arms, Alan Taylor (First Baptist Trussville); Rotary Youth Leadership Awards, Linda Burns; Club History, Van Horne and John Griscom; Volunteers, Derek Rios; and Public Image, Diane Poole.

– Submitted by Diane Poole.

Trussville Rotary Daybreak Club inducted new officers at its June 28 meeting. Photo courtesy of Diane Poole.

SCHOOLHOUSE

Have a schoolhouse announcement? Email Kyle Parmley at kparmley@starnesmedia.com to be considered for inclusion in an upcoming issue.

Trussville City Schools approves new HTHS principal

By LOYD MCINTOSH

In a special session on June 26, the Trussville Board of Education officially named Aaron King as the new principal of Hewitt-Trussville High School.

Trussville City Schools Superintendent Patrick Martin made the announcement to an assembled crowd of parents, faculty and school system officials following an exhaustive search to replace former Principal Tim Salem, who was officially relieved of his duties on June 1 after being placed on administrative leave in the fall of 2022.

"We received 33 applications, as well as went out and sought who we were told were exceptional principals from around the state," Martin said.

Accompanied by his wife and three daughters, King spoke passionately about his goals to push Hewitt-Trussville High School to greater heights, as well as his desire to foster a secure and transparent environment.

"You have my heart and my word that I will treat each and every student at Hewitt-Trussville High School as if they were my own," King said from the podium.

"Citizens of Trussville, I have my ears and my eyes open. God gave me two of each and one mouth," he added. "I'm here to listen to you, to the students, the parents, the teachers and our community members at large. Together, we will continue to build and grow."

A graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point, King comes to Hewitt-Trussville after spending eight years as the principal of Huntsville High School. He also served as the principal of Huntsville Middle School and as the director of operations for Huntsville City Schools.

King officially stepped into the role on July 1, on the heels of a tumultuous 202223 school year in which Salem and former Trussville City Schools Superintendent Pattie Neill were forced out due to the mishandling of a series of threats made by a former student beginning in October 2021. Controversy erupted in the fall of 2022 after it became known the threats, commonly referred to as the "death notebook scandal," went unreported to the school board and local police.

King and incoming Superintendent Martin have made school safety a top priority, a topic King specifically addressed during his remarks. "My administration will focus on several key areas. First and foremost, school safety and security," King said. "In order for students to learn, they must be safe. They

must feel safe.

"We're going to have a culture of 'see something, say something,'" he added. "I'll also have regular and timely communication with the school community as well as transparency for the operation of the school."

Additionally, King pointed to Hewitt Trussville's well-established reputation in academics, sports and extracurricular programs, but he believes it can improve in all of those areas. Owing to his self-described competitive nature, King said he would like to see Hewitt-Trussville not only ranked among the top schools in Alabama, but in the nation overall.

"I will foster excellence in academics, athletics and the arts. Hewitt-Trussville is an ‘A’ school, but at 93 out of 100, we’ve got seven points left on the table," King said, referring to one of several annual education rankings listing Hewitt-Trussville among the top high schools in the state. "I’m a competitor, and if they’re keeping score, I’m playing to win.”

During his opening remarks, Dr. Martin joked that during the recruitment process, many people in Huntsville told him “good luck” getting King to leave Huntsville, where he has spent the bulk of his academic career. However, King said he was persuaded to accept the position based on the leadership and visionary thinking of Dr. Martin and the abundant possibilities he sees at Hewitt-Trussville High School.

"Dr. Martin has a vision for where he wants to take Trussville City Schools, and it's compelling," King said following the board meeting. "When I saw his vision and what he wants to accomplish here in Trussville, I wanted to be a part of it."

"This is not a faculty in need of transformative leadership," he added. "This is a faculty that needs a strong leader they can rally behind, that can build consensus and teamwork, and so I'm walking in not to make wide-sweeping changes, but to rally us around one common vision."

TCS Board President Kim DeShazo

and Board Member Steve Ward said they are impressed with King’s experience and enthusiasm as well as with Dr. Martin’s leadership and vision since coming on board in April. Ward and DeShazo said they are confident the high school and school system as a whole are in good hands.

"I could not be more pleased with what we have accomplished with hiring this gentleman," said Ward. "This is one of the best personnel hires we've had. He's going to work well with the new superintendent and he's going to be what the high school needs to move them forward."

"I talked with Mr. King during the interview process and was very impressed by his background, his history and what he shared with me about what is important to him," DeShazo said.

"We've said all through the superintendent process and through the principal process that we want to find what is the best fit for Trussville," DeShazo added. "We strongly believe we found it."

Aaron King speaks after being introduced as the new principal at Hewitt-Trussville High School during the Trussville Board of Education meeting June 26. Photo by Erin Nelson.

COVER STORY: Trussville superintendent shares plans for the 2023-24 school year

‘PASSION AND HARD WORK’

By GARY LLOYD

Aconversation with Superintendent Patrick Martin about the new school year in Trussville had to include an obvious place. His Twitter profile. Yes, really. Was it something about the UAB women’s basketball team, where the new superintendent’s wife is an assistant coach? Tempting, but no. A tweet about a new instructional strategy working well across United States secondary schools? Pertinent, but not quite. A tweet about his allegiance to the St. Louis Cardinals? Again, no — although Atlanta Braves fans across this area are sure to now let Patrick Martin know that the infield fly rule should not have been cited in the eighth inning of the 2012 National League Wild Card Game.

The draw to Martin’s Twitter profile, quite simply, was his biography itself. Martin could put a lot in those 160 allotted characters, but he called himself a “proud husband and father” and “school administrator.” The next 10 words stood out: “The world is a fine place and worth fighting for.”

Those words, written by Ernest Hemingway in “For Whom the Bell Tolls,” begged explanation. Martin, the former Vestavia Hills City Schools assistant superintendent of operations and services, talked about growing up loving sports, a coach’s son who spent time in gymnasiums from the time he could roll a basketball. He talked about his love of a speech by former North Carolina State head basketball coach Jimmy Valvano at the 1993 ESPY Awards. But Hemingway’s words’ direct meaning to him?

“I love that every morning, we wake up, and we can really determine how we’re going to view the day,” Martin said. “You know, I go back. I was thinking about that this morning in preparation for this. I love when Jimmy Valvano in his speech says, ‘You think about three things you can do every day: if you laugh, you think and you cry.’”

That’s a full day, Valvano went on to say in 1993.

“But when I think of that quote, we have an opportunity every morning when our feet hit the ground to determine how we're going to look at that day,” Martin said. “I'll tell you what, I've been blessed. I have been blessed entering my 24th year in education. I can't think of one time in education — coach, teacher, principal,

assistant superintendent, superintendent — where I've not walked into the building, just smiling, just excited. I mean, I'm in the best — and no offense to other professions — I am in the best profession that I can possibly think of. That’s why. That’s the genesis of that quote.”

Martin coached basketball for a few years in Illinois. His passion wasn’t there for coaching.

“I love the classroom,” he said. “I loved administration. I saw that in my future. That’s why I needed to step away and give someone that position that was passionate, that would eat, breathe, drink, sleep basketball.”

Martin’s father coached basketball in Indiana, so he well understands the building blocks, the 11:30 p.m. trips to the Hardee’s parking lot to exchange game film with other coaches. Building a program is what he’s doing now in his new role with Trussville City Schools, just not on the basketball court.

“I know what goes into that to make a

successful program,” Martin said. “The No. 1 thing is passion and hard work.”

The summer provided plenty of the latter. Participating in the class of 2023’s graduation was a highlight for Martin. Administrative retreats. Board of Education meetings. Goal lists. Data reviews. The most important thing, Martin said, is building relationships.

“I think where leaders get into trouble is when they come in, and they're trying to fit the system to meet their personality style,” he said. “And really, what you're doing is you're coming in building relationships, meeting people, seeing what their vision is for not just the school system, but the community, and then you start to match up: ‘Here's some things that I know about leadership that can help.’ But really, what you're doing is you've stepped into a vehicle, which is Trussville and Trussville City Schools, and now you're driving it to a destination that that community wants to go to.”

By the first week of August, plans are

being implemented and kids are returning to classrooms.

“I love this time of year [summer] because what I know right now is that teachers and students are home recharging, enjoying summer,” Martin said. “I think about a third grade kid right now in Trussville, who they woke up this morning and their whole day is just probably more packed than when they're in school. They're going to the pool, they're going to go play pickup basketball, they're going to go see grandma. I mean, I love thinking about that kid who is doing exactly what they need to do to recharge, so they've got the energy and they're ready to go in August for school.”

Those summer tasks start with a “30,000-foot view,” are brought to the “boots on the ground” and then are discussed from there.

“That’s really where the magic happens,” Martin said. “Because what you don't want to do is bring a bunch of teachers into the classroom, during that 2 o’clock hour, and start having a conversation, and they walk away thinking, ‘You know, that was a complete waste of time. I got absolutely nothing out of that.’ And so really, what you're trying to do is make sure that those are good conversations, where they're reviewing data, they're changing practices, they're looking at instructional strategy, they're looking at pedagogy, they're looking at all those different things and making tweaks, making enhancements to improve student learning.”

The first week of school, and in the months that follow, Martin plans to be out in the schools, he said.

“If you sit in your office all day long, you’re not getting a real viewpoint of what’s happening in the schools,” he said. “I’m watching the practice take place.”

Martin hopes to be seen as a superintendent in the trenches with the rest of the school system’s staff, supporting them and bettering student learning. He also hopes it allows him to be a sounding board for teachers, he said.

To put a bow on his first summer leading Trussville City Schools, Martin mentioned numerous friends with ties to Trussville, all of whom talked about the pride the city has in its schools.

“I’ve heard from several folks, not just in my building, but around town that Trussville just sort of gets in you,” Martin said. “And when you come here, you don't leave.”

Superintendent Patrick Martin speaks with administrators in the Trussville school system during an administrative retreat to set the foundation for the upcoming school year at the TCS central office on June 22. Photo by Erin Nelson.

SPORTS

HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW

Huskies look to capitalize on returning experience

By KYLE PARMLEY

Last fall, Hewitt-Trussville High School’s four losses came against three schools. Those teams made up three of the four Class 7A semifinalists.

The Huskies lost to Central-Phenix City, Hoover and Thompson in the regular season, then to Hoover again in the second round of the state playoffs. They were close but just couldn’t quite get over the hump.

There are plenty of returning players this season who were part of that team last fall, a fact that encourages head coach Josh Floyd.

“We’re really excited about this group,” he said. “We’re still trying to bring that first state title to Hewitt-Trussville.”

OFFENSE

There are plenty of similarities with the Hewitt-Trussville offense heading into this fall. The Huskies return nine of the 11 starters from a 2022 unit that averaged 34 points per game.

It was a young group last fall that needed time to mature and grow, but that won’t be the case this time around. The offense possesses plenty of experience and past productivity to give every expectation of another high-powered attack this fall.

Peyton Floyd is back at quarterback, after winning 7A Back of the Year last fall. He compiled over 3,100 total yards of offense in his first full season as the starter and has many of his weapons back alongside him.

“He knows the system, he’s been running it for years, but there’s no substitute for experience,” said Josh Floyd, who is also Peyton’s father. “As the season went on, he was able to totally take command and control of the offense.”

In the backfield, Jaqson Melton and Kennedy Mitchell return as complementary running backs. Mitchell is more of a big-play threat, while Melton is a physical runner and is a strong receiver out of the backfield as well.

“They bring different things to

the table,” Josh Floyd said.

Deuce Alston and James Kelly are sophomore running backs who will give the Huskies even more depth there.

Wide receiver is where the Huskies are undoubtedly the deepest, returning several pass-catchers with at least 25 receptions last fall. Jadon Loving was the team’s leading receiver and has elite speed. Ka’Darius Barnes is no stranger to big plays, while Jacob Serena was a key factor as a sophomore last year.

It would not be a surprise for sophomore Dylan Cope to burst onto the scene this year as a receiver, while Floyd also mentioned Jacob Sanders and Cooper Langston could also factor into the rotation.

Floyd believes Hewitt has the best tight end in the state in Donovan Price. He was a first-team allstate player last fall and enters his senior year with several Division I offers. Nate Brisco will also get time at the position.

“He’s a huge part of what we do,” Floyd said of Price. “He’s a physical blocker and a threat in the passing game.”

Up front, Kade Martin returns as a fourth-year starter. He has played every position along the offensive line during his time with the Huskies and will play tackle this season. Braden Valdez and Trevor Pruet are returning starters up front, with Mason Holloway looking to break into the starting lineup as well. Drew Johnson and Grant Moore are also in the mix to claim a role.

DEFENSE

The defensive side of the ball is where the Huskies will be relatively young and inexperienced, especially compared to their offense. They return six starters, but two of the departed are now playing in the Southeastern Conference.

The top returner for the defense is Tyrell Averhart, a force for the Huskies the last two seasons. He has certainly benefited from opposing teams paying attention to

defensive stars like Justice Finkley and Hunter Osborne, but Floyd believes he’s set for a productive senior campaign.

“He’s so hard to block,” Floyd said.

Ayden Moore came on strong last year and is an athletic defensive end. Drew Ollis started some games last fall and returns, while Jordan Sherman, Jordan Colley, Mohammed Alabsi, Connor Durden and Verdell Snider are among the players looking to break into the rotation.

The Huskies are essentially starting over at linebacker, after Braylon Chatman and Hunter Jones graduated following standout seasons. Junior Owen Robinson played some last year and is

expected to be one of the leaders in the middle of the defense this season. Another of Floyd’s sons, sophomore Parker Floyd, is expected to be in the mix as well.

Senior Zavier Austin should see plenty of playing time, and Clayton Hollis, Jadon Cantley and Owen Sewell are all competing as well.

The secondary lost Rickey Gibson to Tennessee but is still the unit with the most returning experience. Michael Igbinoghene will hold down one of the cornerback positions. Much like his brother Noah, who now plays with the Miami Dolphins, he’s an elite track and field athlete in addition to his football exploits.

Riggs Dunn and Gavin Williams are also back. Williams was

Top: HewittTrussville receiver Ka’Darius Barnes (2) tries to avoid a Gadsden City defender during a game at the HewittTrussville Football Stadium in August 2022.

by James Nicholas.

Bottom: HewittTrussville defensive lineman Tyrell Averhart (92) pushes past Vestavia Hills offensive lineman Glen Porter (59) in a game at HewittTrussville Stadium in October 2022.

one of the team’s top tacklers a season ago, while Dunn is one of the team’s vocal leaders at the free safety spot. Hayden Chauvin, Will Phillips, CamRon Wynn and Caden Ali are names to watch there as well.

SPECIAL TEAMS

The Huskies do need to find a new kicker and punter. Serena is someone capable of handling the kicking and punting duties but is also one of the team’s top receivers. Trip Ward has moved to the area and could also handle those duties. Baasel Alabsi could handle kickoffs if needed as well.

Dunn, Loving, Igbinoghene, Ali and Noah give the Huskies several strong options in the return game.

Photo

Photo by Erin Nelson.

Cougars ready to rebound from disappointing finish

By KYLE PARMLEY

The 2022 season was not expected to end the way it did for the Clay-Chalkville High School football team. The Cougars, fresh off a dominant season and a Class 6A state championship in 2021, were well on their way to achieving similar heights last fall.

Clay-Chalkville suffered one loss in the regular season, a three-point defeat to the eventual 7A champ Thompson, and rolled over most everyone else. But the Cougars suffered a shocking 7-6 loss to Parker in the first round of the state playoffs.

The fact that an 8-2 season feels like a bitter disappointment is a testament to how high the bar has been set at Clay. And head coach Drew Gilmer is just fine with those expectations.

“The standard is to win a state championship every year,” he said. “We wouldn’t have it any other way.”

Gilmer has seen plenty of positive signs from the Cougars over the offseason that lead him to believe the 2023 team may have the capability to reach those lofty heights once again.

“This group seems different. It’s been fun watching them work,” he said.

OFFENSE

Clay-Chalkville’s offense has been one of the most prolific in the state over the last decade. The Cougars averaged 37.7 points per game last fall and several of the players responsible for that are returning.

Stuart Floyd is back at Clay and will be the offensive coordinator this season, but he will be working with a new quarterback, albeit a familiar face.

Jaylen Mbakwe, a University of Alabama commit, will make the move from wide receiver to quarterback for the Cougars this fall, as he returns to a position he has not played regularly since middle school. Mbakwe has been one of the state’s top receivers the last couple seasons, and the Cougars will be relying on his athleticism and decision-making quite a bit.

“He’s done a really good job in the summer and spring developing the throwing game,” Gilmer said. “He’s done a really good job of making good decisions and is throwing the ball really well.”

Gilmer compared Mbakwe’s skillset to that of Tyrrell Pigrome, who starred for ClayChalkville during the 2014 and 2015 seasons. Mbakwe will give Clay a dynamic threat in the backfield, capable of excelling on designed runs as well as making plays on the fly.

“That’s exciting that you’ve got a guy back there that when things break down, he can make things happen,” Gilmer said.

One drawback of moving Mbakwe to quarterback is removing an elite pass-catcher from

the receiving corps. But Mbakwe will still have an established star in Mario Craver to connect with. Craver is a highly touted prospect who will now be catching passes from his former position mate.

Corey Barber transferred to Clay-Chalkville from Spain Park and will be a factor at receiver. Marlon Compton and tight end Jabari Staples will also be counted on as pass-catching options.

Aaron Osley returns as the Cougars’ top rusher, and Gilmer feels good about Bravis Cave Jr. and a few other young running backs to shoulder the rushing load.

Up front, Clay-Chalkville should be strong, with four players returning who have significant experience. Brady Phillips, Jac’Qawn McRoy, AJ Williams and Adrian Spivey will all start on the offensive line. Gilmer called it

the “most mature and far-along” line that he has had at Clay at the outset of the season.

“This is a big group; they’re large humans,” Gilmer said. “The best thing for them is if we keep them in good position, it’s going to be fun to see.”

DEFENSE

Clay-Chalkville’s defense was lights out a year ago, pitching four shutouts and allowing 20 points just once.

There’s plenty of experience returning as well, starting with senior standout linebacker DJ Barber..

“He does a good job of controlling the middle of our defense,” Gilmer said.

Barber is a recent Auburn commit and is the type of player that can fit into any type of defensive scheme, according to his coach.

“He has tremendous speed, but he’s a physical, old-school linebacker that can handle the run,” Gilmer said.

The secondary should also be a strength for the Cougars. Deion Gunn will play safety and guys like Jeremy Billingsley, Roderick Alexander and Tevis Metcalf will play at corner. Metcalf transferred in over the summer after playing at Pinson Valley last fall. Gilmer said Mbakwe could see some time at corner as well, depending on the situation.

Rod Ivey, another Pinson transfer, will be a productive outside linebacker as well. Along the line, NaKarius Allen and Randell Cole will be factors on an otherwise inexperienced group.

“We have a lot of speed on the edge, we just don’t have that big anchor body in the middle,” Gilmer said. “That’s why it’s even more important for DJ to be in that middle to anchor us down.”

SPECIAL TEAMS

After not having a kicker over the last few years, the Cougars should have one this fall. Antone Ellison has transferred in, after his family moved to the area from Colorado.

Above: Clay-Chalkville linebacker DJ Barber (6) tackles a Pinson Valley running back during a game at Willie Adams Stadium in Pinson in September 2022.

Left:Clay-Chalkville’s Jaylen Mbakwe (9) outruns Briarwood defenders for a long touchdown run during a game at Jerry Hood Stadium in Clay in August 2022. Photos by James Nicholas.

It’s that time again

We’re back, aren’t we?

With the seeming snap of a finger, the 2023-24 school year has arrived. With that comes fall sports, and everyone’s mind immediately goes to football. Whether it’s your favorite high school or college (or even NFL) football team, many of us in this part of the country eagerly anticipate the gridiron action once more.

As the sports editor at Starnes Media, I am fortunate enough to see the best of the best when it comes to covering high school sports. From Hewitt-Trussville’s run in softball, to Hoover’s historic dominance in football, to Mountain Brook’s basketball success over the last decade, it’s been incredible to be along for the journey.

It seems like the 2023 spring sports season just ended yesterday, but this month, the fall sports programs at our local high schools will begin competition once more. Football always garners the most headlines, but there will be plenty of volleyball, cross-country and flag football

to enjoy as well.

One of my favorite things about the beginning of new sports seasons is the unknown. Things never happen exactly as they did the year before. While you can often forecast some of the top teams and some of the bottom teams, there are always plenty of surprises and unexpected turns along the way.

There’s a saying in sports, “They play the games for a reason.”

That’s because you simply never know what’s going to happen on a given Friday night under the lights, or in a given volleyball match.

When it comes to football, will any of our local teams knock Thompson off the Class 7A pedestal? This could be the year someone like Vestavia Hills, Hoover or Hewitt-Trussville takes that next step and breaks through to the state championship.

Spain Park is in its second season under head coach Tim Vakakes, and anyone you ask believes big things are on the horizon for the Jags’ program. But will that manifest itself this year? Chelsea and Oak Mountain are also looking to make some noise in that difficult region.

Mountain Brook is fresh off a run to the 6A championship game, so how can the Spartans follow that up? Briarwood is looking to return to the playoffs after its 29-year playoff streak was snapped last fall. Homewood has been a strong team for several years and will look to keep that momentum despite a few key losses. John Carroll is also looking to rebound.

On the volleyball court, Mountain Brook, Hoover and Spain Park have been at the top of the heap the last several years. But don’t sleep on the likes of Vestavia

Hills, Oak Mountain, Chelsea, Homewood and John Carroll. They have all been at least close to the state tournament in recent years.

Hewitt-Trussville has been the top flag football program in the area the last two years, winning the state championship in 2021. Will they make a run again, or will a team like Vestavia Hills rise up and break through?

On the trail, Mountain Brook’s boys and girls swept state cross-country titles last fall. Chelsea’s girls and Vestavia Hills’ boys won in 7A to give our area all the 6A and 7A trophies.

The storylines are always plentiful as we get going this school year and this season. It’s going to be fun to follow along and see which players and teams step up and make names for themselves.

I can’t wait.

is fall

Scenic beauty creates an attractive backdrop that enhances curb appeal

Serious buyers are active during fall, aiming to settle into a new home before the holiday season.

Less competition compared to the spring so your home may receive more attention from buyers.

Cozy atmosphere so buyers can envision themselves enjoying the warmth and comfort of your home.

Fall marks a new season, making it an opportune time for buyers to envision a fresh start.

Kyle Parmley is the sports editor at Starnes Media.

Parmley

OPINION

Southern

Musings By Gary Lloyd

Sean of the South

By Sean Dietrich

A toddler’s treasure 1st day of school

This time last year, I stumbled upon a YouTube video compilation of garbage trucks driving from home to home, snatching up cans and dumping garbage.

I was surprised that the video was nearly two hours long. I was stunned that it had been viewed more than four million times.

I quickly found out why: toddlers love them.

I expected our son to go through a phase of loving dump trucks, excavators and monster trucks. All boys do. But a 10-wheel truck full of forgotten lettuce, dozens of Chick-fil-A bags and thousands of flattened Amazon boxes is apparently mesmerizing.

Our three-year-old’s love for garbage trucks — regular garbage and recycling — hasn’t waned. He identifies parts of the truck and what those parts do. He has nine toy garbage cans and almost as many toy garbage trucks. He has played with them approximately 403 consecutive days. We tear up notebook paper and cardboard to use as recycling. For Christmas last year, Santa Claus brought a toddler-sized ride-on garbage truck to keep the sidewalks of Trussville spotless. He has a handful of garbage truck-themed shirts and one hat. It’s serious business.

Aside from the videos and toys, the real-life thing simply can’t be beaten. I point out garbage trucks on every drive. I have stopped atop Mary Taylor Road so that my son can peek inside the nearby landfill, and on more than one occasion I have driven to the Waste Management landfill in Moody as a field trip.

But the absolute best day of the week is Wednesday: pickup day. Our toddler’s listening skills magically intensify, and he believes he can hear that truck coming down Roper Road, even though we live closer to Argo than Moody. He wears one of his garbage shirts on pickup day. We’ve recorded dozens of iPhone videos of him waving to the garbage men (and them to him), cans lifting into the air and the front loader tossing all that waste into the back of the truck. I set one video to the song “Good Times Roll” by Jimmie Allen and Nelly, and it remains a favorite.

When Trussville switched from Republic Services to Amwaste last year, the move was met with confusion by our toddler. Why was there no longer a blue recycling truck and another blue regular garbage truck? Why did just one white truck come now? Why, at least for the first month or so, did Amwaste come on days other than Wednesday? It’s consistent now, and we see the same driver each week. He honks the horn, waves and gives thumbs-up to our son, and I swear he waits until he reaches our house to lift the front loader into the air to dump a full load.

Back in the spring, our son napped through garbage pickup one Wednesday. The following Wednesday, the truck didn’t come at all for the first time in months. The next morning, he heard it rumbling up the street. We spent much of the morning outside, watching it dump garbage at a dozen homes. When it made it to our house, the driver waved and leaned out the window. He pointed toward my son.

“I missed him yesterday.”

Gary Lloyd is the author of six books and a contributing writer to the Cahaba Sun.

Today is John’s first day of school. His mother, Tanya, is saying goodbye to him. She kisses him. She straightens his collar and fixes his hair. She sends him off to join his kindergarten classmates.

Soon, several five-year-olds are walking into the building, all wearing large backpacks. Tanya waves again.

“I love you!” she shouts from the parking lot.

“Love you, mom!” he yells.

“So much!”

“I know, Mom!”

John’s book bag looks heavier than he is. His mother waves again and again. More I-love-you’s, more blowing kisses.

Tanya says, “Lord, I never knew it would be this hard.” She admits that she doesn’t know exactly how to feel right now. Of course she feels proud, but also a little sick to her stomach.

“For five years,” she says, “I taught him to talk, eat, how to say yes ma’am, everything. It’s always been him and me. But now …” She wipes the corner of her eye. “Now he’s in there, and I’m out here.”

There are lots of parents out here. Each parent watches his or her child join the herd of lost puppies who do not understand the concept of a single-file line. On the sidewalk, kids await their teacher who will take them to a classroom.

Tanya’s friend, Kimberly, is also saying goodbye to her son, Townes.

Kimberly says, “This is a happy day, don’t get me wrong, but it’s bittersweet, you know?”

John and Townes are with their peers. Laughing. Horsing around. Today is the first day of the rest of their lives. Their two mothers couldn’t be prouder if this were a Lee Greenwood hit song.

As it happens, I remember my first day of kindergarten. In fact, I remember it with startling clarity. Which is bizarre because I don’t have a good memory. My memory has gotten worse with age. There are lots of things I can’t recall. For example, my middle name.

But I remember my first day of school.

It was hot. I wore blue shorts. Yellow shirt. We didn’t use backpacks, I don’t know why. Instead, we all carried brown paper grocery sacks. The same kind you get from the Piggly Wiggly.

My mother wore a pink dress with pockets. Her hair was long. She escorted me into an old building that smelled like mildew and disinfectant. I was nervous.

Then my mother waved goodbye, and I watched her from the window of our classroom. She walked home with her hands shoved in her dress pockets. Without me.

Oh, the humanity.

School was frightening. Our teacher was a large woman who played an out-of-tune piano and bounced around singing the song “Mairzy Doats.” Which is an unsettling song with weird, trippy lyrics that sound like something chanted in various insane asylums.

“Mairzy doats and dozy doats,

“And liddle lamzy divey, “A kiddley divey too, “Wouldn’t you?”

It was hell on earth. And it got worse. At naptime, our teacher taught us to fold our hands and recite:

“Now I lay me down to sleep, “I pray the Lord my soul to keep, “If I should die before I wake, “I pray the Lord my soul to take.”

This disturbing little ditty suggests that any child dumb enough to fall asleep might actually stop breathing and die before he or she ever wakes up. I was so terrified by this poem that I did not fully fall asleep until I hit my mid-thirties.

After my first day of class, I darted out of the school building, carrying my paper sack. My mother was waiting. I jumped into her arms and begged her to never leave me again.

We walked home. And that night before bed, I found something on my pillow. It was a gift. A handmade book, crafted from construction paper.

My mother made it. Inside were pictures she had illustrated. The book was entitled, “Mama and Me.”

The book was a pictorial story of a mother and son who had all kinds of adventures. They flew airplanes, climbed mountains, drove race cars, and splashed in oceans.

“I missed you today,” my mother said.

And for as long as I live, I will never forget that.

Over the years, my mother and I grew up a lot. Our family story was not an easy one, but we had lots of experiences. Some were terrifying, others were adventurous.

We never flew airplanes or raced stock cars, but we survived. And that counts for something. Somehow the young woman in the pink dress helped a little boy become a man.

Right now, I am watching young parents do the same thing for their children.

Tanya says with a laugh, “God, I don’t know what I’m gonna do with myself now that he’s gone.”

“Yeah,” says Kimberly. “Same here.”

The group of children follow Teacher. They start walking toward school. The kids wave. Parents wave.

These children have a fun day ahead of them. Maybe they will sing, finger paint, dance or learn morbid little bedtime prayers that will haunt them until they are middle-aged.

The doors swing open. The kids walk inside. Each mother and father fits in final goodbyes.

“I love you, John!” Tanya shouts.

John waves. He disappears inside.

“There goes my little boy,” says Tanya, sniffing her nose. “He’ll probably have so much fun today that he’ll forget all about his mother.”

No, he won’t.

Not for as long as he lives.

Sean Dietrich is a columnist and novelist known for his commentary on life in the American South. He has authored nine books and is the creator of the “Sean of the South” blog and podcast.

Dietrich

Lloyd

TRUSSVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY

Mondays and Thursdays: Yarn Manglers. Mondays 5:30-7:30 p.m. and Thursdays 2-4 p.m. Bring any knitting or crochet projects you are working on. Check in, catch up, see what everyone is working on, and get help from fellow yarn manglers. Ages 18 and older.

Mondays: Five Pillars to Living Your Best Life. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Strive towards a healthier lifestyle in this six-part series led by Kendell Jno-Finn of M3Endeavors. He will share his commitment to helping us move well, live well and do amazing things. Ages 18 and older.

Tuesdays and Thursdays: Life Skills Series. 6-7 p.m. Join us for this multi-part life skills program for teenagers. Topics covered are financial basics, interviewing, college basics, safety and awareness. Check our website for details. Grades 6-12.

Aug. 1: Friends of the Trussville Library Monthly Meeting. 11 a.m. to noon. The Friends of the Trussville Library members support library staff by providing extra hands for

special events and money for programs and prizes. The Friends run a used book store in the library, stocked by donations which returns all proceeds for library use. For more information about becoming a member, go to trussvillelibrary.com/fotl. Ages 18 and older.

Aug. 3: Red Cross Blood Drive. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Come donate blood to the Red Cross. Every unit of blood donated can help save up to three lives. Ages 16 and older.

Aug. 4: Donna Washington. 5-6 p.m. Join us for a night of stories with Donna Washington. She will share a wide range of fairytales and folktales as well as a large selection of personal narratives and original stories. Donna Washington is a multiple award-winning storyteller, spoken word recording artist, and author. All ages.

Aug. 7 and 14: Meditation with Anita Theart. 9:3010:30 a.m. Breathwork and meditation class for beginners. These are the last two sessions in a series with the overall intention to offer the beginner the tools and inspiration to practice. Each class will be building on the previous one. Ages 18 and older.

Aug. 14: Books & Brews. 7:15-8:15 p.m. in the event room at Ferus Artisan Ales. Connect with your community and

share your thoughts about “Fairy Tale” by Stephen King while enjoying delicious food and drinks. The book club meets on the second Monday of every month. To see selected titles for upcoming meetings, go to trussvillelibrary.com. Ages 18 and older.

Aug. 16: Adult Book Club 2023. 2-3 p.m. Connect with your community and share your thoughts on “Late Migrations: A Natural History of Love and Loss” by Margaret Renkl. The book club meets on the third Wednesday or every month, and reads a variety of fiction and nonfiction. To see selected titles for upcoming meetings, go to trussvillelibrary.com. Ages 18 and older.

Aug. 17: Understanding Medicare. 1-2 p.m. Learn about important Medicare Parts A and B topics that could impact you, including enrollment, costs, benefits, and more with health benefits specialist Linda Reynolds. Ages 18 and older.

Aug. 20: So You Wanna Learn to Cook Series. 1:30-2:30 p.m. The fourth class of a five-part series with Jennifer Conn of Quality Kitchen. Jennifer will share quality hacks for cooking to reduce inflammation, improve digestion and eat for energy. She will share the best foods to “break” a fast and more. Ages 18 and older.

Struggling to align your people strategy with your business strategy?

A SOLUTION FOR THAT

Members of a high-performing team go above and beyond because their role, team, manager and culture engages and inspires them.

In order to have a high performing team, not only must you have the right people in the right roles, but you must also know how to manage them in the way in which they will respond.

We unleash the power of behavioral analytics to allow you to achieve both of these objectives. Then, we transfer the knowledge to you and allow you to build a winning-culture with ongoing support.

• Data from more than 30 million assessments

•More than 500 validity studies

• EEOC friendly

•Unparalleled leadership development

Scan with your phone’s camera to go to our specials page.

*Offers cannot be combined, some promotions may be limited to select sets. Not responsible for errors in ad copy. Quantities and selections may vary by location. Mattress images are for illustration purposes only Gifts with purchase (including gift cards and rebates) are not valid with any other promotions except special financing for 6 or 12 months.** Monthly payment is based on purchase price alone excluding tax and delivery charges. Credit purchases subject to credit approval. Other transactions may affect the monthly payment. *** 0% APR for 60 months financing available with purchases of $1999 or over and does not include sales tax. ** The special terms APR of 8.99% will apply to the qualifying purchase, and 48 monthly payments equal to 2.5090% of the original special terms balance are required.*** The Nationwide Marketing Group credit card is issued by Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. Special terms apply to qualifying purchases charged with approved credit. The special terms APR will continue to apply until all qualifying purchases are paid in full. The monthly payment for this purchase will be the amount that will pay for the purchase in full in equal payments during the promotional (special terms) period. The APR for Purchases will apply to certain fees such as a late payment fee or if you use the card for other transactions. For new accounts, the APR for Purchases is 28.99%. If you are charged interest in any billing cycle, the minimum interest charge will be $1.00. This information is accurate as of 7/25/2023 and is subject to change. For current information, call us at 1-800-4315921. Offer expires 8/21/2023. **** Free base offer applies to Queen set purchase of $799 and above or King set purchase $999 and above. King base applies to either one horizontal King Base or one of two TXL bases.***** Free Delivery on mattress sets $699 and up, Local area.