The Trussville Tribune – May 2 - 8, 2024

The Tribune

Kim DeShazo reappointed to Trussville Board of Education

By Chris Basinger Staff Writer

TRUSSVILLE, Ala. –

The Trussville City Council unanimously approved reappointing Kim DeShazo to the Trussville City Schools Board of Education during last week’s meeting. DeShazo, who will be

Center Point sees two homicides over weekend

From Tribune staff reports

CENTER POINT, Ala. –The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the deaths of two Center Point men, which have been classified as homicides, that occurred last weekend.

On April 27 at 5:45 p.m., Dexter Antonio Buchanan, 36, of Birmingham was shot during a reported assault,

8 law enforcement officers shot, 4 killed in Charlotte

From Tribune staff reports

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A suspect fired on law enforcement officers attempting to serve a fugitive warrant in Charlotte on Monday wounding eight and killing four, according to officials.

Clay renames public library to honor longtime Alabama attorney

CLAY, Ala. – The Clay City Council approved a proclamation during last week’s meeting to rename the Clay Public Library to the “W. Alan Summers Municipal Library” in honor of his years of service.

Summers was born on June 8, 1941 and raised on a working farm in Missouri.

He earned his bachelor’s degree from Southeast Missouri University and obtained his juris doctor degree from the Cumberland School of Law in Birmingham.

After passing the bar exam, Summers opened a general practice firm in Center Point Alabama in 1968 and has continuously practiced since.

“During his 57 years of practice, Alan Summers has handled thousands of real estate closings, written an untold number of Wills, Contracts, and Pleadings, and worked on all kinds of cases in his adopted state of Sweet Home Alabama,” the proclamation read. He was also appointed as the head of all mining operations in the state by Gov. George Wallace

in 1978 and served in the Wallace Administration until 1984.

Since 2012, Summers has also served as the city attorney for the City of Clay.

Columbus

Birmingham Parade of Homes opens doors to communities

A biography of Summers read, “Alan has joked over the years about being a relic of the past and is proud of his ability to not use cell phones or computers….or even a VCR

for that matter, but even as time has passed, his practice has thrived due to his personality, willingness to help people and the relationships cultivated through the years.“

No traces of forever chemicals detected in Trussville tap water

“On Monday, April 29, 2024, an armed suspect BPD makes 6 street racing arrests including Center Point man

Trussville Rotary donates crisis buckets

From Tribune staff reports

TRUSSVILLE, Ala. –The Trussville Rotary Daybreak Club has partnered with the Trussville Police Department to fund and create crisis buckets for local schools. The buckets are intended to be used in case of unexpected crises such as weath-

By Chris Basinger Staff Reporter

TRUSSVILLE, Ala. –Trussville Gas and Water is reporting that no traces of Per- and Polyfluorinated Substances (PFAS), otherwise known as “forever chemicals,” have been found in Trussville’s drinking water.

The announcement comes as the utility looks to clarify a publicized Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM) report that included data on the presence of PFAS chemicals in Alabama water systems.

According to Mike Strength, the general manager of Trussville Gas and Water, the report incorrectly included data collected from samples of Trussville’s water before it had gone through the treatment plant, which detected traces of PFAS.

“In our case, the sample was taken before it entered the filtration system, so we shouldn’t have ever been on the report,” Strength said. After a review, ADEM

confirmed that the samples taken in Trussville from before the water was filtered should not have been included in the report.

ADEM also stated that the levels of substances reported for other communities listed in the report were correct.

Trussville sources its water from nearby wells, which is then filtered using granular activated carbon.

By the time Trussville’s water is treated and ready to be delivered to customers, Strength says that no traces of PFAS are being found at the current detectable levels.

The current discussion on forever chemicals in public water systems comes following the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) establishment of new limits on the

presence of PFAS in drinking water. According to the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), PFAS are manmade chemicals that do not easily break down in the environment and may be linked to harmful health effects in humans and animals.

See WATER, Page 3

Summers was surprised by the announcement at last week’s meeting. Courtesy of Ronnie Dixon.

The J.K. Davis Water Filtration Plant. Courtesy of Trussville Gas and Water.

The Trussville Tribune

190 Main Street

Trussville, AL 35173 (205) 533-8664

Scott Buttram, Publisher publisher@trussvilletribune.com

Chris Basinger, Staff Reporter chris.basinger@trussvilletribune.com

Johnny Sanders, Sports Editor news@trussvilletribune.com

Jana Matthews, Finance Manager

Brookelyn Rush, Office Manager

Leigh Hays, Director of Sales & Marketing

Butch Cole, Sales

By Chris Basinger Staff Writer

TRUSSVILLE, Ala. –

The Trussville Area Chamber of Commerce celebrated the grand opening of Brookwood Baptist Health Primary Care Clinic in Trussville Tuesday morning.

“We’re so happy we’re in Trussville and I think the Trussville community will support our clinic and we’re just excited for Suzanne to be a presence here and we’re looking forward to watching it grow,” said Practice Manager Christina Burgess. Suzanne Cantley will serve as the nurse practitioner at the clinic.

Cantley has been a nurse practitioner for 20 years and just recently earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice from the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

In addition to offering primary care services to the community, she also has a passion for diabetes preven-

tion and management.

“She’s very caring,” Burgess said. “If a patient comes in and has a high

blood sugar, within a day or two she’s gonna call them herself sitting back there in her office, you know calling to check on your blood sugar. And there’s nothing extra in that, there’s no charge for that, it’s just she’s a caring person and so she does call and check on her patients.”

The clinic also has enough room for another provider and Burgess hopes they will have a physician in place by 2025.

“We just want to say welcome as well, we appreciate you choosing Trussville to open this location,” Mayor Buddy Choat said as he congratulated them and wished them luck.

“We’re excited to take care of you in your own backyard,” Cantley said.

The new clinic is located at 220 Main Street, Suite 112.

People gather for the ribbon cutting at Brookwood Baptist Health Tuesday morning. Chris Basinger/Trussville Tribune

Trussville BOE

starting her second fiveyear term on the board, was in attendance along with other school board members at the meeting.

Councilor Lisa Bright

The proceeds of the 2024 event will benefit The Red Barn, an equine therapeutic and educational facility. Their focus is on teaching

These substances have been used to make nonstick cookware, waterproof clothing, stain resistant fabrics, cosmetics, and other products.

On April 10, the EPA announced that it was setting new legally enforceable maximum contaminant levels for six PFAS in drinking water–PFOA, PFOS, PFHxS, PFNA, and HFPO-DA.

Under the new regulations, which will be fully implemented in 2029, the max-

thanked DeShazo for her willingness to serve another term and acknowledged the work that school board members have to put in. Later on, DeShazo shared her appreciation to the council for reappointing her and said she was happy to be back.

individuals, especially children, who have disabilities or other special circumstances life skills through interaction with the horses and the equine educational camps.

During the almost 38 years that EWCF has been

imum contaminant levels for most of the substances will range from 4 parts per trillion to 10 parts per trillion. Though the new EPA regulations may mean drastic changes in how water is treated in other communities, Strength believes that the only change that will be made in Trussville is how often the granular activated carbon used in the filtering process will be replaced. Replacing the carbon is necessary because its ability to absorb harmful chemicals goes down over time. Currently it is changed every 5-6 years, but he ex-

“I’m honored to serve my community in this way and so I’m looking forward to five more years of service,” DeShazo said. “Go Huskies!”

Her term will expire on May 25, 2029.

established they have raised over a million dollars for organizations in the eastern area.

For more information, visit www.easternwomen. org or contact them at 205612-5660.

pects that it will go down to every 4-5 years.

“Customers won’t ever see a difference in the bill,” he added, saying that the price of changing it more frequently is not a big enough expense to be noticeable to customers.

For more information, see Trussville Gas and Water’s 2024 Drinking Water Quality Report at the link below: https://trussville.com/wp-content/ uploads/2024-FINAL-Water-Quality-Report-for-2023-Reporting-Year-WEBSITE-1.pdf

Coroner’s Office asks for help finding family of deceased Pinson man

From Tribune staff reports

JEFFERSON COUNTY

– The Jefferson County Coroner/Medical Examiner’s Office is asking the public for help in locating the family of a Pinson man who recently died.

Alan Lee Brimer, 72, died of natural causes while an inpatient at UAB Hospi-

Rotary

From front page

er events, school shootings, or chemical spills on roadways near schools.

During such events, students and teachers may be secured inside classrooms for an extended period of

tal on April 15.

In 2020, Brimer listed a home address in the 8200 block of Country Circle in Pinson and has lived in the Birmingham area since at least 1991. If you are family or have knowledge of family, please call the Jefferson County Coroner/Medical Examiner’s Office at 205-930-3603.

lieve their bladders while remaining safe in the confines of the classroom until the crisis is over.

Each of the 300 buckets consists of a bag of cat litter, a case of small water bottles, two rolls of toilet paper, and a bag of trail mix.

Trussville school nurses

Additional partners on this project were The Home Depot (Trussville), whose employees also expressed interest in assembling and delivering the buckets, Target (Trussville), Pet Sup-

time until the danger is eliminated and rescue teams arrive to release students and teachers from the school.

While in lockdown, the buckets would provide a way for students and teachers to stay hydrated and re-

Nestled in the mountain ridge between Trussville & Springville, Alabama sits the exclusive and serene community of Mountain Top Estates offering:

• Multiple lot's 100 to 150 feet wide (larger if needed)

• Gated one entrance/exit access

• Picturesque vistas

• Minutes to Interstate 59, Highway 11, downtown Trussville and Springville, and the Trussville Historic District

• Zoned to the prestigious Trussville City Schools and serviced by Trussville Fire/Rescue & Police Department, Alabama Power, Trussville Gas & Water, and offers underground utilities

• Lots starting at $150,000, financing is available, and we provide you the ability to build your dream home independently or in collaboration with a team of your choice

and school resource officers will train teachers on the purpose, use, and maintenance of the buckets.

plies Plus (Trussville), and the Trussville Police Department.

The Trussville Rotary Daybreak Club meets at First Baptist Church Trussville on Wednesday mornings at 7 a.m.

Trussville Daybreak Rotary Club partially funded the project through a grant from Rotary International and assembled and delivered the buckets to school classrooms.

Kim DeShazo, her family, the Trussville City Council, and members of the Trussville BOE gather during Tuesday's meeting. Chris Basinger/Trussville Tribune

Trussville Rotary Daybreak Club presents the crisis buckets. Courtesy of Trussville Rotary.

Alan Lee Brimer

To the Editor

To the Editor: The Alabama Public Library Service held a public hearing 4/30/24 to hear comments from the public on Governor Ivy’s proposed library code changes. These were the core of my comments at the hearing. Books shape people, people shape societies, societies shape countries. We are seeing the result of this phenomenon play out on campuses today with over 100 antisemitic demonstrations. Where did this come from? I maintain it came from books. Books that are void of virtue have been used since the mid20th century to teach students and train teachers.

Horace Mann, called the Father of Public Schools, believed teachers should give students the oppor-

To the Editor: The principle of "Ignorantia juris non excusat" – ignorance of the law is no excuse – remains a cornerstone of our justice system. Alabama Code 13A12-213 explicitly prohibits marijuana possession and smoking, constituting a Class C/D Felony. The mayor's claim of ignorance does not absolve him of liability for potential legal consequences. Furthermore, a growing body of scientific evidence highlights the potential health risks of cannabis use. Dr. Beth Cohen of the University of California, San Francisco, underscores the dangers of inhaling burned substances, noting the creation of toxic compounds and carcinogens. A recent John Hopkins study (March 2024) involving 10,000 patients further

tunity to practice virtues in the classroom. The textbook used was the McGuffey Reader. These books contained well-regarded English and American writers, Bible verses and hymns. The McGuffey Readers were dropped in the 1960s and that is when the moral philosophy of America became centered on the individual not our creator. Virtue is rarely mentioned today in any sphere. Virtues include Order, Temperance, Humility, Industry, Frugality, Sincerity, Resolution, Moderation, Tranquility, Cleanliness, Justice, and Silence. Books that promote these virtues are all that should be in our Public Libraries.

Terry Richmond

reveals a substantial increase in cardiovascular risks, including stroke and heart attack, even among infrequent cannabis users without prior health conditions. I find it concerning that the mayor would organize an event potentially violating Alabama law and disregarding well-documented health concerns. His statements raise significant questions about his understanding of both legal and ethical obligations as a public official. Alabama's Code of Ethics for public officials mandates upholding the law. It is imperative that leaders, including the mayor of Springville, adhere to this mandate. Failure to do so sets a harmful precedent and undermines public trust.

Sincerely, Dr. Mark Isley

crafted by talented builders.

It will also offer visitors the chance to see modern design trends, get inspiration, and even the opportunity to buy a new home.

One of the new communities included in the parade is Mountain Top Estates, developed by Malchus Real Estate, in Trussville

“We are excited to share the many benefits of Mountain Top Estates in this year’s show,” said Randy Malchus of Malchus Real Estate.

“In addition to the secluded property and beautiful views , this is one of very few subdivisions where one can build their own home or partner with their own Mountain Top approved Builder or Realtor.”

The community has 20 estate-size lots surrounded by woodlands and scenic vistas.

“I look forward to the Birmingham Parade of Homes every year. It’s a really great way for devel-

opers and builders to show their wares and a really good way for the public to evaluate the value of the craftsmanship, new ideas, and technology,” Malchus said.

“Some people say they don’t build them like they used to, but I disagree. With today’s technology and new building codes, the craftsmanship just gets better and better.”

Other homes and developments in the area include Curtis White Companies’ 6917 Timber Trail Road in Leeds, Fairin Realty’s 4090 Red Rock Place in Irondale, Harris Doyle Homes’ 5745 Longview Trail and 5986 Longmeadow Drive in Trussville, and Waterstone Homes’ The Village at Springville at 210 Cottage Ct. in Springville. An interactive map of

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Home Parade

One of the homes at Mountain Top Estates. Ron Burkett/Trussville Tribune

The entrance to Mountain Top Estates. Ron Burkett/Trussville Tribune

Former HTMS substitute teacher sentenced on felony child porn charges

reports

From Tribune staff

TUSCALOOSA – A for-

mer Hewitt-Trussville Middle School substitute teacher has been sentenced to jail after pleading guilty to five felony counts of possessing child pornography. Justin Hrin Stegall of Northport had been working as a substitute teacher at HTMS at the time of his 2019 arrest by Northport police.

Stegall initially pleaded not guilty to the charges, but changed his plea to guilty in February of 2022.

Judge James Roberts handed down Stegall’s sentence earlier this month on April 17. Roberts sentenced Stegall to 10 years in prison on each of the five felony counts, but ordered the sentences to be served concurrently and suspended eight years and six months, meaning Stegall will serve 18 months in jail.

Court documents show an anonymous informant came forward to Northport police in 2019 with con-

Police Chase

From front page

substance, leaving the scene of an accident, illegal possession of prescription drugs, and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

On April 23 at approximately 3:39 p.m., Trussville Police attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a white Ford Explorer driven by Floyd that was traveling southbound near the 1600 block of Gadsden Highway.

Justin Hrin

cerns the teacher had suspicious images of students on his phone. The informant also believed Stegall was carrying on a text exchange with a minor at the time.

According to a court deposition, an investigator went to the home of Justin Hrin Stegall, 22, and asked him about the allegations. The investigator said Stegall admitted to having a problem with child pornography. The investigator said Stegall said he had been watching child porn for years and he wanted help.

Stegall was taken into custody on Thursday, May 23, 2019. He gave the officer his login and password information for his phone and laptop. The officer said he found five images of child porn. According to the deposition, those images included young, naked boys. It is unknown if the images were of students.

“When I learned of the arrest for possession of child pornography in Tuscaloosa, I notified the state department of education of his arrest,” former TCS superintendent Pattie Neill said at the time of Stegall’s arrest in 2019. “The Educator Certification Department verified the charges and changed his criminal background review in his credentials to ‘alleged misconduct.’

“It is important for the Trussville community to know that Mr. Stegall is no longer on our substitute teacher list, and he is not and will not ever be employed in Trussville City Schools in any capacity.”

Street Racing

From front page

Operation Knight Rider was launched by the department earlier this month in response to a recent uptick in street racing activity.

The six suspects arrested include Kizzon Barnfield of Center Point, Lequin Callen Jr. of Birmingham, Roderick Jackson of Hueytown, De’Arrion Riddle of Huey-

Center Point

town, Tramell Robinson of Oneota, and Danajh Watkins of Birmingham. Barnfield, Callen, Riddle, Robinson, and Watkins were charged with exhibition driving. Watkins, 25, was also charged with felony attempting to elude and receiving stolen property in the first degree. Jackson, 22, was charged with second degree assault

and receiving stolen property in the first degree.

The stolen vehicles impounded were a black Dodge Charger and a Black Chevrolet Camaro.

The other impounded vehicles include two Ford Mustangs, a 2018 Dodge Charger, and a 2021 Dodge Charger.

Three firearms were also seized as part of the weekend’s arrests.

According to police, Floyd failed to yield and began “driving erratically” before turning on to Edwards Lake Road. The Floyd’s car then struck multiple other vehicles along the road before ultimately becoming disabled near Huffman Road and Old Springville Road. He then attempted to flee on foot and was taken into custody after a brief foot pursuit. According to police, Floyd will be transferred to the Jefferson County Jail where he will have a bond totaling $56,000.

From front page

according to the Jefferson County Coroner’s Office.

Deputies responded to the 1600 block of 5th Street NW in Center Point and found Buchanan laying down.

Center Point Fire and Rescue responded to the scene and pronounced the victim dead at 6:03 p.m.

Later that night at approximately 9:53 p.m., deputies responded to the 1500

block of Charter East Circle in Center Point, Alabama, to investigate another report of a person down. Upon arrival, deputies observed Gemar Demetriece Hubbard, 54, of Center Point, unconscious and being treated by Center Point Fire and Rescue.

Hubbard was transported to St. Vincent’s East Hospital.

On April 28, detectives were notified by St. Vincent’s Hospital that the victim had been pronounced

dead. According to the Jefferson County Coroner’s Office, Hubbard sustained blunt force injuries during a reported assault. There have been no arrests made at this time in either case. If there is anyone who has information pertaining to these cases, they are encouraged to contact the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office at 205-325-1450, option 2 or Crime Stoppers at 205-254-7777.

*Amount

Christopher Keith Floyd

Top row, from left: Kizzon Barnfield, Lequin Callen Jr., and Roderick Jackson. Bottom row: De’Arrion Riddle, Tramell Robinson, and Danajh Watkins.

Stegall, former HTMS substitute teacher, sentenced to jail on child porn charges.

Rotary names April student, teacher of the month

From Tribune staff reports

TRUSSVILLE, Ala.–

The Trussville Rotary Daybreak Club announced its Don Haisten Student of the Month and Teacher of the Month for April, sponsored by Full Moon Bar-B-Q.

Kendall Haynie, a junior at Clay-Chalkville High School, was named student of the month.

Haynie is involved with Key Club, DECA, GearUp, and the CCHS Cougarettes from 2021-2023.

“Mrs. Lemmons plays a key role in helping me achieve academic success with high school and college courses,” Haynie said.

“Her being a great support, encouraging, and approachable makes it easier to achieve my academic goals.”

She is a member of the National Honor Society, the Spanish Honor Society, and received the Gear-Up Leadership Award. In her free time, Haynie enjoys doing community service, spending time with family and friends, and trying out new restaurants. Her selection for teacher of the month is Valerie Lemmons, her English teacher.

HTHS grad, Miss Trussville selected as graduation marshal for Auburn’s College of Liberal Arts

From Tribune staff reports

AUBURN, Ala.–Isabella

Weyerman, a Hewitt-Trussville High School graduate and Miss Trussville 2022, has been named the spring 2024 graduation marshal for the College of Liberal Arts at Auburn University.

Weyerman will graduate from Auburn with degrees in Political Science and Vocal Performance with a soprano choral focus.

While attending Auburn, she has also been involved in numerous extracurricular activities, including leadership in Student Government Association, Pi Lambda Sigma and AU Singers.

Weyerman spoke highly of all the organizations she has been a part of, and said, “Serving as the student president of Liberal Arts for two years provided me with invaluable insights into the importance of college-wide support and the significance of fostering connections

within one’s department.”

During her time as student president, Weyerman was also involved in the appointment of a new dean to the College of Liberal Arts.

“I had the privilege of interviewing and enthusiastically recommending Dean Hicks when he was one of many candidates for dean,” Weyerman said. “Since his

appointment, I have continuously witnessed a positive impact of his leadership.”

She also served as assistant vice president of the Executive Student Council, advising all 13 of Auburn’s college councils, and was selected as one of five women on the 2023 homecoming court.

As her final semester comes to an end, Weyerman

is writing her senior music thesis, titled “Sacred Music in Public Schools,” under the mentorship of Professor Rosephanye Powell.

“This thesis aligns perfectly with my career interests and allows me to delve deeply into a subject I am passionate about and experienced in,”Weyerman said.

After graduating, Weyerman will begin law school at

Georgetown Law where she hopes to pursue a specialization in intellectual property entertainment law.

“I eagerly anticipate a long, fulfilling legal career deeply rooted in the diverse set of interpersonal and concrete skills imparted to me by the College of Liberal Arts,” said Weyerman.

“The support, experiences and lessons I have gained in return have truly enriched my life beyond what I ever expected.”

The university will host the College of Liberal Arts commencement ceremony at 1 p.m. CT on Sunday, May 5.

The commencement address will be delivered from Auburn alums Kirsty Coventry ’06 and Phillip McWane ’80.

Additional information, including updates regarding inclement weather, is available on the commencement website and information will be posted on the Facebook and Instagram accounts.

All ceremonies will be livestreamed, with recordings available on the commencement website following the weekend festivities.

Isabella Weyerman (Contributed Photo)

Coordinator Fran Aldridge, Teacher of the Month Valerie Lemmons, Student of the Month Kendall Haynie, and Club President Dr. Kristi Bradford.

Dekalb County man dies from injuries in crash

From Tribune staff reports

DEKALB COUNTY

— A two-vehicle crash that occurred at approximately 2:50 p.m. Friday, April 26, has claimed the life of a Fyffe man, according to Senior Trooper Brandon Bailey of the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency.

James R. Posey, 68, was critically injured when the 2003 Ford F-150 that he was driving struck a 1996 Ford F-350 driven by Rickie D. Nance, 70, of Fyffe,” Bailey said. “Nance was also injured; both were transported to Dekalb Regional Hospital for treatment.” Bailey said Posey was not using a seat belt at the time of crash.

On Tuesday, April 30, Posey succumbed to his in-

opened fire on law enforcement officers in the 5000 block of Galway Drive in the North Tryon Division.” police said. “Four Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department officers were shot, one of which succumbed to his injuries. Additionally, four officers from the U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force were shot, three of which succumbed to their injuries.”

The preliminary investigation indicates officers were attempting to serve active felony warrants on a male subject. As officers approached, the male subject discharged his firearm striking multiple officers. These officers requested immediate response from other officers. As officers responded,

juries and was pronounced deceased while at Erlanger Baroness Hospital, in Chattanooga, Tenn. The crash occurred on Alabama 72 near Dekalb County 72, approximately

the gunfire continued, striking additional officers.

Police said eight officers were struck during the gunfire. The officers were rushed to area hospitals. Three task force officers were pronounced deceased at the hospital.

Two of the slain officers, Sam Poloche and Alden Elliott, were from the North Carolina Department of Corrections assigned to the U.S. Marshals fugitive task force. A deputy U.S. Marshall killed in the gunfire was not immediately identified.

“One of the injured CMPD Officers, Joshua Eyer, a 6-year veteran, fought for his life for several hours before succumbing to his injuries,” officials said. According to police, the male suspect exited the residence on Galway Drive with

two miles south of Rainsville, in Dekalb County. No further information is available as Troopers with the ALEA Highway Patrol Division continue to investigate.

a firearm. Law enforcement officers perceived an imminent deadly threat and fired their service weapons striking the suspect in the front yard of the residence.

The CMPD’s Special Weapons and Tactics Team (SWAT) began negotiations with other occupants in the house. Two females exited the residence and were transported to the Law Enforcement Center (LEC) in Uptown (601 E. Trade St.) to be interviewed by detectives.

Upon securing the scene, the suspect was pronounced deceased at the residence. The deceased suspect has been identified as Terry Clark Hughes, Jr, 39. Hughes was wanted for possession of a firearm by felon and felony flee to elude (2 counts) out of Lincoln County, North Carolina.

Crash closes off-ramps from I-59 to I-459 in Trussville area

From Tribune staff reports

JEFFERSON COUN-

TY – A two-vehicle crash closed multiple interstate off-ramps in the Trussville area on Tuesday, according to ALEA Senior Trooper Vu Quang.

Both northbound and southbound off-ramps of Interstate 59 to Interstate 459 southbound in Jefferson County are currently blocked and will be for an undetermined amount of time.

The closure is in the Trussville area at 139 mile

marker near exit 137.

The crash occurred at approximately 2:59 p.m. on Tuesday.

ALDOT was on scene assisting with traffic control while ALEA Troopers were on scene investigating.

As of Tuesday night the roadway had been cleared.

Birmingham man dead in Sunday shooting

From Tribune staff reports

BIRMINGHAM — A homicide investigation is underway after a man was shot and killed in the Ensley area. The incident occurred on Sunday, April 28, 2024, according to Sgt. LaQuitta Wade of the Birmingham Police Department. The victim has been identified as Terry Dewayne Hinson, 50, of Birmingham.

At approximately 3:22 pm, West Precinct officers were responding to a call of a Person Shot in the 1700 Block of Avenue I, the Ensley community.

“When officers arrived on the scene, they observed the victim lying in the roadway unresponsive, suffering from an apparent gunshot wound,” Wade said.

“Officers also observed a citizen attempting to render aid to the victim.”

Motorcyclist

Birmingham Fire and Rescue Services arrived on the scene and pronounced the victim deceased.

“The preliminary investigation suggests the victim and others were hanging out in the area when a verbal altercation ensued,” Wade said. “An unknown suspect fired shots, wounding the victim, and left the scene.” There is no one in custody.

killed in Shelby County crash

From Tribune staff reports

SHELBY COUNTY –

A two-vehicle crash along Alabama 25 near Vandiver claimed the life of a Sylacauga man Thursday afternoon, according to ALEA

LEGAL NOTICE INVITATION FOR BIDS

Senior Trooper Vu Quang.

At approximately 2:11 p.m., a 2022 Harley-Davidson FXST motorcycle driven by Tyler A. Herrod, 30, struck a 2015 Chevrolet Express 2500 van driven by John D. Jackson, 53, of Pell

City. Herrod was thrown from the motorcycle and pronounced dead at the scene. Nothing further is available as ALEA’s Highway Patrol Division continues to investigate.

Sealed Bids will be received by Trussville Gas and Water located in Trussville, Alabama, until the local time set forth below, for furnishing all labor, equipment and doing the work of constructing, according to Plans, Specifications and Contract Documents on file in the office of Trussville Gas and Water, the project hereinafter described. No bid will be received after the time set forth below; and the Bids will be publicly opened and read at Trussville Gas and Water Engineering Dept., 6620 Green Drive, Trussville, Alabama 35173.

Interested contractors can obtain prequalification applications from TG&W Engineering Department (“Engineering Department”), 6620 Green Drive, Trussville, Alabama 35173; Telephone: (205) 228-1091 and must submit the completed prequalification application to the Engineering Department at the above address, no later than 4:00 p.m. on May 21, 2024.

Project Name: North Chalkville Gas and Water Main Relocation Bid Date and Time: June 11, 2024 at 10:00 A.M.

1. Install 2,500 L.F. of 16” D.I. water main by Open Cut

2. Install 440 L.F. of 12” D.I. water main by Open Cut

3. Install 220 L.F. of 10” D.I. water main by Open Cut

4. Install 1,200 L.F. of 8” D.I. water main by Open Cut

5. Install 1,150 L.F. of 4” PE gas main by Open Cut

6. Install 20 L.F. of 2” PE gas main by Open Cut

7. Install 200 L.F. of 6” Stl. gas main by Open Cut

Plans, Specifications and Contract Documents for the project described above are open to public inspection at Trussville Gas and Water Engineering Dept., 6620 Green Drive, Trussville, Alabama 35173. Telephone: (205) 228-1129.

Trussville Gas and Water reserves the right to reject any or all bids, to waive any informality in any bid, and to accept any bid considered advantageous to the Owner. No bid may be withdrawn after the time for opening bids has passed. Trussville Gas and Water reserves the right to hold the bids for a period of Sixty (60) days after the date of receiving Bids. If said bid equals $100,000.00 or more, a certified check or bid bond must accompany each bid in an amount of not less than five percent (5%) of the total bid, but in no event more than $10,000.00. The payee of such check, or the obligee of such bond, shall be Trussville Gas and Water.

Contractor agrees to comply with all specifications, plans and contract documents as furnished by Trussville Gas and Water. Contractor must be licensed under the provisions of Title 34 Chapter 8, Code of Alabama, 1975. Prior to submitting a bid for this project, contractor must be prequalified as a Gas and Water Line Utility Contractor for Trussville Gas and Water. Contractor prequalification applications may be obtained at Trussville Gas and Water Engineering Dept., 6620 Green Drive, Trussville, Alabama 35173.

o pinion

Alabama Lawmakers Considering More Legislation at the Expense of Crime Victims

By Paul DeMarco

This past week was National Crime VictIms’ Rights Week. Those who have been crime victims and their families were honored at a vigil in Montgomery at the Alabama Attorney General’s Office, as well as other sites around the state. Unfortunately, around the corner, the Alabama Senate had just passed legislation that was not in the best interest of crime victims.

The bill (SB 312) would change the dynamics of parole board hearings by creating a right for inmates to participate and be heard and seen in parole hearings by video. Right now inmates are interviewed by institutional parole officers and have the right to have an attorney and others to advocate in person at hearings for their release. All of this has been done to ensure that inmates have their positions heard, without compelling victims to face or have to hear those inmates convicted of their crimes against them or have to correct misstatements or allegations made by those inmates.

It is both physically and emotionally difficult for a crime victim to have to attend a parole board hearing to plead with the board not to release a convicted felon who has not served their full sentence. It is hard enough for victims to face those who perpetuated their crimes during trial to get a conviction, but now the victims will have to fight to have these felons serve their sentences in prison since many criminals receive sig-

nificant reductions in sentences because of the state’s lack of truth in sentencing. Knowing that the inmate will now be able to testify at the hearing will make some

crime victims reluctant to attend these important hearings, and it puts the interests of inmates first. Of course, we hear about a shortage of prison guards and now more

time and effort will have to be spent to accommodate the logistics of the requirements of this new bill were it to become law.

While legislators move

to give inmates more input at their parole hearings, it is done at the expense of crime victims and public safety.

Alabama citizens are looking to their lawmakers

to keep them safe, not pass new laws so violent felons can argue their way back on the streets. And while this bill would give a new right to inmates, crime victims, prosecutors and law enforcement make much sacrifice of time and expense traveling to Montgomery to ensure that the parole board has a complete record of the reason behind the conviction and sentence of these inmates. This bill and a slew of other proposed legislation before the Alabama Legislature are all part of an effort to effectuate change to get more inmates released by the parole board. All of this despite 80 percent of those in Alabama prisons there because of violent crimes. Due to reforms to paroles passed in 2019 and the leadership of Board Chair Leigh Gwathney, each case has been considered relying on the facts of that case alone. Thus, crime victims and public safety are again paramount as opposed the problems with prior boards. Crime victims are rightly upset by this newest legislation that could pass in the waning days of this session. It was a shame the Senate passed the bill, but hopefully the Alabama House of Representatives will not support this bill and to do right for those who were just remembered this past week for what they have suffered as crime victims.

Paul DeMarco is a former member of the Alabama House of Representatives, chair of the Judiciary Committee and can be found on X, formerly Twitter at @ Paul_DeMarco

If your hearing aids are no

Thursday, May 16, 2024 5:00pm – 6:30pm (CDT) Southern ENT and Sinus Center

Paul DeMarco

L ifesty L e

Sean of the South: A Walk in the Dog Park

By Sean Dietrich Sean of the South Commentary

One year…

By Sean Dietrich, Sean of the South Commentary

My truck cab was filled with three barking dogs and one idiot. The dogs were in the backseat. The idiot was behind the wheel.

“Sit down!” the idiot kept saying.

But my dogs do not sit when I drive. They never sit. They dutifully explore their space when the vehicle is underway.

To the untrained eye my dogs appear to be acting disobediently. But that’s not it. Really, they are just looking for food.

They are always looking for food. They even look for food in places where there has never been any food, such as my bathroom. In a pinch, they will even resort to eating non-food items such as my reading glasses, my sandals, sheetrock, etc.

But they particularly go crazy when in my truck because they know the odds of finding abandoned food here are exponential. Thus, they are constantly on the lookout for expired Corn Nuts, old pistachio shells, or a petrified French fry predating the Reagan administration.

So we finally arrived at the dog park. I turned them loose. They ran. They chased squirrels. They wrestled. They hunted around for any threatening or suspicious objects so they could sniff them, bark at them, then pee on them. And then, basically, all the dogs in the dog park just stood around. That’s all the dogs do there. They play for short bursts, then they stand around and look at their

owners.

“Why do dogs just stand around at dog parks?” one dog owner asked the group

of us dog owners who were also, as it happens, just standing around. Another dog owner said,

“I drove forty-five minutes to get here, just so my dog could stand around.”

One of the other dog owners remarked, “You ever wonder what would happen if dog and human roles were reversed? What if DOGS took US to human parks? Would we go to the bathroom in front of each other?”

We all just looked at him.

And, of course, at dog parks, dogs sniff each other’s rears. I don’t know why dogs do this. This behavior has always perplexed me. They are not picky about whose butts they sniff. They’ll sniff any butt you give them.

I’ve read that rear-sniffing is a primal greeting of sorts wherein complex pheromone scents are exchanged. But I think it’s something dogs do because they like nasty things.

I have been owned by 13 dogs in my lifetime. And I have learned that dogs are not above wallowing in

stinky objects. I have seen my dogs roll themselves in everything from cat feces to armadillo remains.

And one time when I was in a major city—this is a true story—walking my bloodhound after hours, we were near the dumpsters. It had been a long night. I had just given a speech and I was tired, so I wasn’t paying attention.

When I got back to the hotel, the clerk looked at me and said, “Sir, there’s something in your dog’s mouth.”

“Drop it, Thelma Lou!” I said. It turned out to be—remember I am not kidding—a retired breast implant. The thing hit the floor. The clerk and I stared at the prosthesis and, in a moment I will never forget, the clerk said flatly, “Double D.”

I’m running out of room here, but I’ll close by saying, the more I learn about people, the more I like my dogs.

Sean Dietrich (Photo courtesy of seandietrich.com)

s avvy s enio R

Healthy Travel Tips for Older Travelers

By Jim Miller

Dear Savvy Senior,

What tips can you offer retirees with health issues who are planning some trips?

We’ve been looking forward to traveling again after staying home the past few years, but my husband has a heart condition and some back problems that worry me.

Concerned Wife

Dear Concerned,

A dream vacation can turn into a real nightmare if you get ill or injured while you’re away and aren’t prepared. Before setting out, here are some tips to help ensure a safe and healthy trip for you and your husband.

Get prepared: Before you go, talk with your doctor about your travel itinerary and what precautions you need to take before traveling. You should also have your doctor’s contact information with you when you travel, as well as a list of the medications you’re taking in case you need emergency medical care while you’re away.

It’s also a smart idea to locate health clinics or urgent care facilities near the areas you’re visiting. Your hotel can help you with this or a simple internet search can identify nearby health care services. If you’re traveling abroad, the U.S. consulate or embassy in the countries you’re visiting (go to step.state.gov to enroll your trip) is a good place to get a referral. Or use the International Society of Travel Medicine’s directory at ISTM.org.

If you’re traveling outside the U.S., you also need to find out the health condi-

tions of the country you’re visiting and what, if any, vaccinations and/or preventative medications are recommended. See CDC.gov/ travel or call 800-232-4636 to get this information. Check your insurance: If you have private health insurance or a Medicare Advantage plan through an HMO or PPO that covers in-network doctors only, check your plan to find out what’s covered if you need medical care when traveling outside your geographic area.

Beneficiaries that have original Medicare are cov-

ered everywhere in the U.S. But if you’re traveling abroad, you won’t be covered outside the U.S. and its territories except in rare circumstances, although some Medicare Advantage plans and some Medigap supplemental policies do provide limited coverage. Most private health plans don’t pay health care costs outside the U.S. either. Be sure to check.

Many retirees traveling abroad purchase travel insurance with medical coverage, which may cover expenses if you cancel the trip, need to be treated while traveling or need to be

evacuated for medical care. Make sure the policy will also cover your preexisting medical conditions. To shop and compare policies visit TravelInsurance.com, InsureMyTrip.com or SquareMouth.com.

Organize your medications: Make sure you have a sufficient supply of medications to last the entire trip. If traveling by air, you need to pack your medicine in your carry-on bag, so if your checked luggage gets lost or misdirected you won’t be without. It’s best to keep your medications in their original containers to

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get through airport security without delays. It’s also a good idea to bring along a note from your doctor that explains why you take these medications, especially if syringes or other medical supplies are involved.

For airport security requirements visit TSA.gov – click on “Disabilities and Medical Conditions.” You can also call TSA Cares at 855-787-2227 prior to traveling with questions about screening policies, procedures and what to expect at the security checkpoint.

Maximize technology: Keep a list of your medi-

cations and other important health and medical information handy on your smartphone so you can easily access and share it with emergency health care providers when you’re traveling. Some good apps that can help with this are Backpack Health (BackpackHealth.com) and Capzule (Capzule.com).

Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior. org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book.

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Local Meetings

● Trussville City Council Meetings: 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m., City Council Annex

● Trussville Board of Education Meetings: 3rd Monday of each month at 6 p.m., TCS

Central Office

● Clay City Council Meetings: 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m.

● Pinson City Council Meetings: 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month at 7 p.m.

● Center Point City Council Meetings: 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month, at 6:30 p.m.

● Argo City Council Meetings: 2nd and 4th Monday of each month at 5 p.m.

● Springville City Council Meetings: 1st and 3rd Monday of each month at 6 p.m.

● Irondale City Council Meetings: 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m.

● Leeds City Council Meetings: 1st and 3rd Monday of each month at 6 p.m.

● Moody City Council Meetings: 2nd and 4th Monday of each month at 6 p.m.

Events

● 14th Annual Birmingham Bible Reading MarathonThursday, May 2 at 7 a.m. to

Sunday, May 5 at 6 p.m. at the Holy Cross Episcopal Church, 90 Parkway Drive, Trussville83 continuous hours of Bible reading, Genesis to Revelation

● Pinson Trade Days - Saturday, May 4 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. - Pinson Entertainment and Business District Trussville Public Library

● Yarn Manglers - May 2 at 2 p.m. - Knitters and crocheters, join us for fellowship and creativity!

● Teen Volunteer Training - May 2 at 6 p.m. - Training sessions for teen summer reading volunteers.

● Teen Volunteer Training - May 6 at 10 a.m. - Training sessions for teen summer reading volunteers.

● Study Hall - Teens - May 6 at 3 p.m. - Study Hall for teens preparing for exams.

● American Girl Play Practice - May 6 at 5 p.m. - Participants will be practicing for the American Girl Play, Tea For Felicity, a play about Felicity Merriman, a colonial girl struggling for independence in 1774.

● Yarn Manglers - May 6 at 6 p.m. - Knitters and crocheters, join us for fellowship and creativity!

● Friends of the Trussville Library Monthly Meeting - May 7 at 11 a.m. - The Friends of the Trussville Library (FOL) members support library staff by providing extra hands for special events and money for programs and prizes!

● Study Hall - Teens - May 7 at 3 p.m. - Study Hall for teens preparing for exams.

● Ukulele Club - May 7 at 6:30 p.m. - Beginner Ukulele Club.

Pinson Public LibraryMay 2-8

● Bloomin’ Book Fair - May 6 at 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. - Browse our selection of USED books & media as well as new toys, trinkets, candy, posters, & more! All sales will benefit

o bitua R y

Melvin Earl Rohling

august 20, 1947-april 12, 2024

Melvin Earl Rohling, beloved husband, father, grandfather, neighbor, and friend, passed away at home on the evening of Friday, April 12, 2024, at the age of 76 after an extended illness of three years. He was the elder son of Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Louis Rohling (Dorothy Pauline Seifert) of Birmingham, Alabama.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents Mr. and Mrs. Louis Joseph Rohling (Catherine Elizabeth Waltz) and Mr. and Mrs. Bernhardt Andrew Seifert (Anna Adella Eckstein); his parents “Buddy” and “Polly”; and his loved younger brother, David Paul Rohling and sister-in-law JoAnne McCown Rohling, all of Birmingham, Alabama.

He is survived by his wife, Jacqueline “Jackie” Edwards Rohling, Trussville, Alabama; son, Brian Earl Rohling (Dr. Meredith Tubbs Rohling), Vestavia, Alabama; daughter, Karen Rohling Campbell (Patrick Donald Campbell), Trussville, Alabama; and grandchildren, Landon and Annsley Rohling, and John Patrick, Kaylin, and Lillianne Campbell; sisters-in-law Barbara McReynolds (Jim) and Jerry Dennis (Gene); cousins Tom Woods (Karen),

(Willene), Benita Holt; and nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family. Melvin was a 1965 alumnus of John Carroll

Pamela Thomas

july 30, 1959 — april 19, 2024

A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, April 30th, 2024, at 1:00

PM, at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home for Pamela Thomas, age 64, of Pinson, AL, who passed away Friday, April

Melissa Jackson

was a graduate of Trussville High School and Wallace State of Nursing. She worked for DCH Hospital in Tuscaloosa and retired from UAB to be a stay-at-home mom. She was a neonatal nurse which was her calling and passion. She also enjoyed watching Auburn football and the Atlanta Braves. Her most important goal in her life was raising her son Thomas and all things Thomas. She was a loving and incredibly supportive wife to Todd. She was a member of North Park Baptist Church. She is preceded by Tom and Sandy Berry (mom and dad), and her grandmother Claire Hayes. Melissa is survived by her husband Todd Jackson and son Thomas Jackson. And her fur babies Toby and Mazie. Earl and Mary Jackson of Auburn (brother/sister-in-law. Her uncle/aunt Bob and Alma Berry. Along with many other family and friends. Instead of flowers monetary contributions may be mailed to the following: UAB Center for Palliative and Support Care, CPM3 1720 2nd Ave

Fund, UAB Hospital, Attention: Sandra, 1700 6th Ave South, Suite 5350, Birmingham, Al

AskEddie

What is Perpetual Floral Care?

In a perpetual care cemetery, the cemetery provides for gardeners whose job is to cut and fertilize the grass and keep the gravesite clean on a weekly basis. This is typically paid with a one-time payment and assures care forever.

However, there are additional options this fee doesn’t cover. One is providing flowers for a loved one’s grave on an ongoing basis. With perpetual floral care, families can schedule flower arrangements to be placed on a loved one’s grave periodically. This could be quarterly, monthly or for special occasions.

Prices vary based upon the arrangement selected, but typically vary from $20 to about $100 per arrangement, so this is an inexpensive way to honor and remember a loved one.

Please scan the QR code to read the full article.

Pamela Kontzen

G Lord, and wife Lois Lord; and beloved sister-in-law, Dottie K Walker. She is survived by two beloved sons, R. Clark Kontzen II (Alecia) of Fort Mill, SC, and Christopher M Kontzen of

mingham, Alabama; three adored grandchildren, Andrew and Ryan Kontzen of Fort Mill, SC, and Audrey Kontzen of Birmingham, Alabama; brother, Stephen W Lord (Carol), and many nieces and nephews and cousins including Minette Thompson Cranford, who she also considered a life-long friend. Pam’s love, goodness, and strength will always shine through her family.

Pam was a devoted daughter, sister, wife, mother, aunt, and grandmother, and she will be dearly missed. She was an extraordinary woman whose love and care deeply impacted many lives, particularly her family and the children she nurtured through teaching.

Visitation will be from 12 – 1 pm, Saturday May 4 at Huffman United Methodist Church with service to follow from

1 – 2 pm. Pam will be laid to rest at Jefferson Memorial Gardens in Trussville, Alabama. In lieu of flowers, a memorial donation may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Lorain Ellen DeVito

may 12, 1936 — april 23, 2024

Lorain Ellen DeVito passed away peacefully on April 23, 2024. She is preceded in death by her husband Tony DeVito and Son David Baker. She is survived by her children Patricia Tate (Michael), Richard Baker (Charlotte), Robert Baker (Anne), Lisa Manly Moats (Mike), Lynda Vest (Buddy) and Laura Bawcum (Bill). Her quiver was full with 12 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren and two more on the way. When physically able,

Eddie Seal, General Manager

By John Goolsby Prep Sports Editor

Ollis and Rob Wright had two hits.

Hewitt blew the game open with six runs in the second inning to take a 6-1 lead.

9U White Lightning claim Classic championship

From Tribune staff reports

TRUSSVILLE — The 9U Trussville White Lightning won the 2024 Trussville Classic with a perfect 4-0 record and only surrendered one goal throughout the tournament.

The White Lightning are coached by Erin Contratto and head coach Nicholas Mulligan.

Lady Huskies play for area title on Tuesday

By Johnny Sanders Sports Editor

TRUSSVILLE – The

top-ranked Hewitt-Trussville Huskies look to earn an area championship and punch their ticket to the next round of the 7A state playoffs as they take on the winner of Tuesday’s Spain Park vs Chelsea elimination game, which will be played at Goldie Paine at 3:00 pm.

The Huskies beat Spain Park 16-6 on Monday night to push them to the eliminator against Chelsea and give Hewitt the afternoon off before the 5:00 pm championship game. If the Huskies were to lose the first game, it would force another game on Tuesday at 7:00 for the area championship.

Hewitt has beaten both Spain Park and Chelsea each time they have played them this season. They beat Spain Park by a combined 33-18 in three games and Chelsea 11-0 in two games.

In Monday’s game against the Jaguars, the Huskies faced adversity as Spain Park put five runs on the board in the first inning and held the Huskies to just a single run. Spain Park scored another run in the top of the third, answered by Hewitt with one of their own in the bottom of the

inning. Then, the Husky bats went crazy in the bottom of the fourth with 12 runs. The Huskies added two in the bottom of the sixth inning to finish off the Jaguars by a score of 16-6. Zaylen Tucker pitched the first inning, giving up three hits and five runs and striking out two. Kate Hicks and Sara Phillips finished things off for the Huskies, combining to allow just four hits and a single run and striking out four total

batters. Corey Goguts continued her late-season surge with four RBI, three of which came on a fourth-inning home run that brought Kenzie Noblin and Peyton Hull home. Tucker added three RBI as well. Now, the Huskies (306 overall; 6-0 in area) will await their area championship opponents for the right to move on to next week’s North Regional in Florence beginning on Monday, May 6.

Christian Helmers gave up two runs on three hits and recorded two strikeouts. The Huskies dropped the

Hewitt baseball at pre-playoff meal. Credit: HTHS

Hewitt-Trussville's Corey Goguts takes a swing. Photo by: Shawn Bowles Photography

Springville boys and girls extend seasons with weekend sweeps

By Johnny Sanders Sports Editor

SPRINGVILLE – Both Springville teams (baseball and softball) have had great seasons on the diamond and that did not stop this weekend as both teams swept their opponents and punched their tickets to further their play in the postseason.

The Tiger baseball team beat Southside in back-toback games on Friday to

seal the deal and gain an extra day of rest by avoiding a game three on Saturday. In the first game against the Panthers, Springville got a 4-2 win. The teams were scoreless in the first, but the Tigers got two in the second. Southside would tie it up in the bottom of the fifth.

The two would go into extra innings with Springville putting up two in the ninth and holding on in the bottom of the inning to finish off the

Panthers. Carter Samuelson went seven innings and allowed six hits and two runs while striking out seven. R King picked up the win, pitching the final two innings and allowing no hits nor runs while striking out two batters. S Nichols drove in two runs in the game to lead the Tigers at the plate.

Game two would become a win or go home situation for

See SPRINGVILLE, Page 16

Pinson Valley’s Bo Nix picked 12th in NFL draft, Denver bound

From Tribune staff reports

PINSON VALLEY —

Former Pinson Valley Indian quarterback Bo Nix will continue his football career with the NFL’s Denver Broncos after the franchise made him the 12th pick in round one of the draft.

“I’m so excited to be a Bronco,” Nix said. “This is such a dream come true.

From day one, Denver was my number one. I want to say thank you to the organization, I can’t wait to meet the fans.”

Nix led the Indians to back-to-back state championships in 2017 and 2018 with his father, Patrick Nix, as his head coach.

The Auburn legacy then followed in his father’s footsteps to the plains where he led the Tigers to a 21-13 record

playing for Gus Malzahn and Bryan Harsin before transferring to Oregon. As a Duck, Nix became a Heisman finalist after leading Oregon to a 22-5 record in two years. Another former PVHS Indian, Kool-Aid McKinstry, who led Pinson Valley to the 2020 state championship, was drafted to the New Orleans Saints with the 41st pick of the draft in the second round.

Bo Nix as Pinson Valley's quarterback.

Team Penske’s Scott McLaughlin wins

By John Goolsby Prep Sports Editor

LEEDS – Scott McLaughlin backed up his 2023 win at Barber with a strong drive in his #3 Good Ranchers Team Penske Chevrolet to claim the 2024 Children’s of Alabama Indy Grand Prix Powered by AmFirst. The win was McLaughlin’s fifth career win.

The race featured 289 on-track passes, a Barber IndyCar record, and 281 on-track passes for position, which is another Barber IndyCar record.

86,000 fans attended Barber Motorsports Park across three days, the highest attendance since the first IndyCar race in 2010.

The New Zealander’s Team Penske squad came under immense criticism this past week. Team Penske was found to have illegally used Push To Pass in the season-opening race at St. Pete. As a result, Team Penske was docked $25,000,

and race winner Josef Newgarden and second-place finisher McLaughlin were stripped of their podium finishes and points. Team Penske’s Will Power was found to have not utilized Push to Pass but was docked ten points and finished third after Newgarden and McLaughlin were disqualified. Power finished 1.3194 seconds behind McLaughlin in his #12 Verizon Business Team Penske Chevrolet. Power’s second-place finish was his 100th podium, tying him with Michael Andret-

ti for fourth all-time on the IndyCar list, and his 30th runner-up finish, which ties him for seventh all-time on the IndyCar list.

“It was aggressive. It was combative, actually,” said Power.

“The thing is, when you’ve been running at the front in very clean air, and hard, you get back there with all that dirty air and how much the car moves around, you’re kind of are not ready for it when it first

See MCLAUGHLIN, Page 16

ACTION TREE SERVICE

2024 Children’s of Alabama Indy Grand Prix: Getting to know Scott McLaughlin

By John Goolsby Prep Sports Editor

The Trussville Tribune will provide extensive coverage of the Children’s of Alabama Indy Grand Prix at Barber Motorsports Park in Leeds. IndyCar drivers Felix Rosenqvist, Santino Ferrucci, Scott McLaughlin, and Birmingham’s own Michael Suco, Jr., a rookie in the USF Juniors series, will be spotlighted.

Scott McLaughlin returns to Birmingham looking for a win and redemption.

The New Zealander’s last NTT IndyCar Series victory came last year at the 2023 Children’s of Alabama Indy Grand Prix.

After a fourteen-race drought, he and his “Thirsty 3s” Team Penske crew want to again put the #3 Team Penske Odyssey Battery Chevrolet in victory circle.

The three-time Australian Supercar champion is looking for redemption after he and his Penske teammate, Josef Newgarden, were stripped of their podium finishes in the series’ season-opening race in St. Pete last month.

IndyCar handed down penalties to Team Penske yesterday for illegal use of Push to Pass boost on starts and restarts during the event. Push to Pass provides the engines with an estimated fifty extra horsepower.

IndyCar issued the following statement yesterday:

An extensive review of data from the race on the streets of St. Petersburg revealed that Team Penske manipulated the overtake system so that the No. 2, 3 and 12 cars had the ability to use Push to Pass on starts and restarts. According to the IndyCar rulebook, use of overtake is not available during championship races until the car reaches the alternate start-finish line. It was determined that the No. 2 and the No. 3 gained a competitive advantage by using Push to Pass on restarts while the No. 12 did not. Additionally, all three entries have been fined $25,000 and will forfeit all prize money associated with the streets of St. Petersburg race.”

The penalty gave Arrows McLaren driver Pato O’Ward the win and stripped Newgarden of his victory and points; McLaughlin was stripped of his third-place finish and points.

Team Penske’s Will Power was docked 25 points but was elevated to second place from his fourth-place finish in the race. As a result of the penalty, McLaughlin fell from 10th to 29th in the points standings.

McLaughlin released the following statement Wednesday night:

“First and foremost, I am proud to be a member of Team Penske. I fully stand with everyone one of my teammates. Simply put, a mistake was made. I have the highest level of integrity and it is important to protect both my own reputation and that of the team. I was not aware of the situation with the software. In this instance, I used a single, very brief (1.9 second) deployment of push to pass in a section of the track, exit of Turn 9, where it is typi-

See SCOTT, Page 16

2024 Children’s of Alabama Indy Grand Prix podium Credit: Ron Burkett

Scott McLaughlin and crew in victory circle Credit: Ron Burkett

Team Penske’s Scott McLaughlin

Photo by: Drew Goolsby

Southside and Springville would once again win, this time sending the Panthers back up 59 with a loss and ending their season. The Tigers would jump out to a 3-0 lead in the first, but Southside picked up a run in the top of the second and third to make it 3-2. The Tiger bats would wake up in the bottom of the third, scoring four runs to make it 7-2, but the Panthers would not go away. Springville got two more runs in the bottom of the fourth but Southside exploded in the top of the fifth with six runs to make it 9-7 Springville. The Tigers added another in the bottom of the fifth and then Southside could only muster a single run in the top of the seventh, ending the game with a 10-9 win for the Springville Tigers. Alex Holland went fourplus innings, allowing eight hits and eight runs to go with four strikeouts. King got his second win of the day, coming in for the remaining two-plus innings and allowing three hits, a run and striking out a batter. Holland got it done at the plate as well, driving in three RBI along with three from T Oakes and two from Jake Conner.

The Tigers now look to extend the season even more as they take on the Russellville Golden Tigers who put out fellow Tribune team, the Leeds Greenwave, this past weekend. They will travel to Russellville on Thursday in third round playoff action.

The Lady Tiger softball team has had quite the season as well, even claiming the top ranking from the ASWA for a good part of the season. They grabbed wins over Fairview and Hayden on Friday and another over the Wildcats on Saturday to clinch the area title and move on to round two of the playoffs.

Friday’s game against Fairview was a blowout win of 16-0 that was called after just two and a half innings of play. Springville scored six in the first and nine in the second to put away the Aggies. Bella Bullington pitched all three innings allowing a hit and no runs to go with four strikeouts. A host of Tigers drove in multiple RBI to lead at the plate.

Friday’s second game was another blowout in favor of the Springville Lady Tigers, this time an 11-1 drubbing of the Hayden Wildcats. Springville took a little more time getting this win as Hayden actually started the game by going up 1-0 over the Tigers in the first. Springville would answer with four in the second, one in the third, five in the fourth and one for good measure in the sixth. Georgia Chancellor went the distance allowing five hits and one run while striking out five. Kiley Christopher led at the plate with three RBI.

In the weekend finale, those same Wildcats would meet a similar fate at the hands of the topranked Tigers. This time it would be a 10-1 victory for Springville. Hayden would take another 1-0 lead after one inning followed by Springville putting up three in the second, three in the fifth and four in the sixth to earn the nine-point win and win the area championship.

S Hathcock (four innings) and Chancellor (three innings) combined for seven strikeouts while allowing six hits and a single run in the game. A Locklear had five RBI to go with three from A Layfield, two of them coming on a two-run home run in the final inning of the game.

The top-ranked Tigers take their nine-game winning streak into the second round of the playoffs where their opponent is to be determined at this time.

restarts.

“You’ve got to get used to the car being very much on top of the road again.

“You’re also thinking in your head, ‘Scott and I kind of racing potentially for the win, but we’re in the pack.’

“The risk versus reward, you’re kind of trying to decide on.

“I think I wasn’t aggressive enough. I should have worked harder to keep Scott behind. I didn’t block him.

“But, with everything that’s happened this week, I just didn’t want to bloody have two Penske cars off in Turn 1, so I just kind of let it go.

“Yeah, I was happy for the team to get that, though. I was.

cally utilized throughout the race. I hit the button out of habit, but I did not pass any cars, nor did I gain any time advantage. The data, which IndyCar has, confirms all of this information. While I accept the penalty, I want to be clear that I did not gain an advantage over my competitors. IndyCar’s competition is the best in the world and I would take no pleasure in achieving success in any way other than honestly. We will all press forward from here and focus on the task at hand this weekend at Barber.”

McLaughlin followed up the St. Pete with a second-place finish in the nonpoints event at Thermal in California.

Last week’s race on the streets of Long Beach was one to forget for McLaughlin. After showing good pace and having good practice sessions, he qualified 11th due to a mistake in qualifying.

McLaughlin ultimate-

“I’ve been around long enough where you actually are happy for the team. You’re not so selfish.”

Rookie Linus Lundqvist, who started 19th in the #8 Chip Ganassi Racing American Legion Honda, finished third. His third-place finish was the first NTT IndyCar podium for the 2022 Indy NXT champion.

Felix Rosenqvist finished fourth in the #60 AutoNation/SiriusXM Meyer Shank Racing Honda. Two-time and reigning NTT IndyCar Series champion Alex Palou rounded out the top five in the #10 Ridgeline Lubricants Honda.

McLaughlin led the first 27 laps of the race and 58 of 90. After pitting on lap 28, McLaughlin and five different drivers, Alex Palou, Felix Rosenqvist, Santino

ly finished the race in the 26th position after a faulty gearbox forced him to retire early on lap 70 of the 85-lap event.

While the season has taken an unexpected turn on the track, McLaughlin is much more comfortable off the track this year compared to previous seasons.

“I think the biggest thing for me is just slowly getting my feet down here in America,’’ he said. “Going through visa processes, trying to sort out credit, and lots of stuff like that takes quite a toll on you mentally.”

“Having a lot of my off-track business things squared away has definitely helped from a mental standpoint,” he said. “I feel really comfortable heading into the season, but even towards the last season, I felt like we really just started getting comfortable in our surroundings.”

After three championships, 56 wins, 76 pole positions, and 106 podiums in 253 Supercar races, McLaughlin has adapted to open-wheel cars remarkably

Ferrucci, Power, and Linus Lundquist, took turns leading the race due to teams opting for different fuel strategies and yellow flags.

McLaughlin, using a three-stop strategy, was able to regain the lead for good on lap 76. However, the finish was not without late drama, as Christian Rasmussen spun and stalled in Turn 13 on lap 86. The race resumed with two laps remaining, and McLaughlin was able to hold off Power.

“I love this place,” said McLaughlin. “It is probably my favorite road track in America.

“We know our job, we know what we need to do,” McLaughlin said. “I’m just super proud of the execution. A couple of yellows didn’t fall our way, but we just showed our pace. We

well.

McLaughlin is proud of his old series and is happy to see fellow Supercar veteran Shane van Gisbergen find success in the U.S.

“Well, it is gratifying,’ he said. “Supercar has built an amazing series that is very tough.”

“I think it just shows you for myself and Shane to come over here and to compete with some of the best drivers in the world; it shows how well-bred the series is down under for building really good race drivers.”

“We really enjoy the challenge of coming over here,’ he said. “I’ve spoken to Shane a couple of times about a lot of things and we really enjoy the challenge of being here.”

McLaughlin is excited about his return to Birmingham and Barber. “It is such a pretty place,” he said. “And the commitment level really rivals some of the most scary tracks I’ve ever been on, like Bathurst [Mount Panorama] or anything like that.”

just keep rolling, man.

“Definitely one of my best drives in terms of execution and just knocking out the laps. Very happy we could advance to the checkered flag there and bring home a W for Team Penske and for Roger [Penske].”

McLaughlin took the maximum points from the race, 54, and catapulted from 29th in the points to 9th.

With an eighth-place finish in his #26 Gainbridge Honda of Andretti Global w/ Curb-Agajanian car Colton Herta took the NTT IndyCar Series points lead. Power trails Herta by one point, while Palou is three points back in third.

The NTT IndyCar series heads to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway for the month of May.

“It is very undulating, high commitment and we always get a massive crowd here, which is awesome as well,” he said. “The crowd always comes out to support IndyCar which sets a good vibe for the weekend and year as well.”

“I really enjoy the challenge of driving a high aerodynamic car and heading into some high-speed corners with the G-loads, and the G-loads go to the steering wheel as well, and the Gs go so high, and it becomes quite physical,” the Kiwi said. “But it’s a lot of fun, and it’s something I really enjoy.”

McLaughlin hopes Barber is just what he and his team need to get their 2024 season back on track.

The Children’s of Alabama Grand Prix takes place April 26-28. Race fans can purchase tickets at indyalabama.com or by calling 877-332-7804.

Tickets were sold in 41 states and 12 countries last year and the economic impact to the Birmingham area was between $18 and

Jason

Corey Goguts – Hewitt-Trussville Softball