The Trussville Tribune

Rutledge

Elected Moody Mayor; Harrell Unseats Taylor in Council Race

By Jakob Gurley

By Nathan Prewett, For the Tribune

MOODY, Ala. — Nick Rutledge has been elected mayor of Moody, defeating John Howard in Tuesday’s municipal election.

Rutledge received 1,263 votes, or 57 percent, while Howard earned 965 votes, or 43 percent. The seat became open when longtime

Leeds Mayoral Race Headed to Runoff

by Jakob Gurley

New owners of Dobbs Ford celebrate first year of managing dealership

By Chris Basinger, News Editor

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. –

LEEDS, Ala. — Leeds voters went to the polls Tuesday to decide the city’s next mayor and city council representatives, with several races now headed to a runoff after no candidate secured a majority.

It has been a year of firsts for Dobbs Ford as new owners Joey and Rachel Goshein recently celebrated their first year as managing partners and as members of

In the mayoral race, Eddie Moore received 1,315 votes, or 49.07 percent, just short of the majority needed to win outright. Kenneth Washington followed with

LEEDS, Page 5

Sanders Wins Pinson Mayoral Election; Council Seats Decided

By Jakob Gurley

PINSON, Ala. — Hoyt Sanders, the city’s first mayor, has won Tuesday’s municipal election for mayor of Pinson, defeating incumbent Robbie Roberts and challenger Dezmond Boudreaux. Sanders secured 411 votes (61.5 percent), while Roberts received 190 votes (28.4 percent) and Bou-

Center Point headed to runoff in mayor’s race

By Terry Schrimscher

By Chris Basinger, News Editor

Center Point, Ala. —

After prolonged political lecture from Mayor Thomas, Springville Council approves pay raise for police

Ben Short elected as new Trussville mayor

City of Argo elects Randy Hettich

From Tribune Staff Reports

recipient Melanie Dimler

By Terry Schrimscher

afterward, Thomas said he trations because the council sometimes delays making decisions it needs to make. He discussed his motion to add unaddressed items from the February meeting to a proval. That approach was

By Chris Basinger, News Editor

ARGO, Ala. — Randy Hettich defeated former mayor Paul Jennings Tuesday night. Hettich issued a statement on Facebook thanking voters for the victory.

“I appreciate all the support you’ve given me throughout this campaign, and I look forward to leading our city forward for the

Many other cities in the prove non-controversial items with a single vote through a consent agenda, a procedural process used to sion and lengthy meetings.

Austin Phillips to become mayor of Springville

TRUSSVILLE, Ala. —

er the minutes noting members motioned to adjourn before conducting business on the agenda without that motion being recognized. Thomas then proceeded to deliver a dissertation, as he called it, for the next 55 minutes, cross-referencing political history, addressing recent editorials, and quoting Teddy Roosevelt, Jesus, and Socrates along the way. Although not technically a filibuster, the lecture was designed to prolong the meeting allowing Thomas to air his displeasure at the lack of

Trussville will have a new mayor and almost an entirely new council as council member Ben Short has won the election to replace retiring mayor Buddy Choat who took office in 2016. Short faced opposition from fellow council member Lisa Bright and Jeffer son County tax assessor J. T. Smallwood in a race many thought was headed toward a runoff. Short won

focus on city business.

At one point, Thomas challenged members of the council to raise their hands if they agreed never again to leave a meeting before the conclusion of business. No hands raised. Along the way, he said the council’s lack of leadership on salaries would be a burden on the city.

51.8% of the vote. Smallwood came in a distant second with 26.3% and Bright garnered 21.9%.

“I’m just grateful that Trussville came out and supported me. I’m grateful for that. I’m kind of blown away, I fully anticipated a runoff tonight,” Short told The Tribune. “I’m glad to have the opportunity to follow Buddy’s lead.”

“The council had every opportunity to redress the error but chose otherwise, wanting to move on, showing their frustration and the effectiveness of the filibus-

Choat announced last October that he would not seek a third term. He previously served on the Trussville City

Foxhound Bee Company to bee-gin construction on new education center

ter,” Thomas said. “The example they set by refusing to adjust salaries wasn’t about their faux martyrdom, sacrificing for the greater good,” he added.

Council prior to his election as mayor.

“I think the community wants to see some for of continuation, but they also want change at the same time,” Short said. “I think it was clear and evident as we were campaigning that they wanted information, a different form of communication and I think that’s what I’ll be able to provide.”

“The example they set was that if you make an error it can’t be corrected. That the error becomes a mistake,” he said. “But now the window to act has closed as of last Wednesday, shackling the next administration with the consequences of their actions,” he said.

Speaking to The Tribune

With two current council members running for mayor and only one incumbent seeking reelection, this election

After re-introducing parliamentary rules to the meeting process, Thomas led the council through new business which involved acceptance of bids for a new sewer project which will need further action for financial decisions. The council also renewed the city’s garbage collection contract with Waste Management.

cycle guaranteed a lot of fresh faces leading the city for, at least, the next four years.

Incumbent Jaime Melton Anderson easily won reelection with 69.2% of the vote against challenger Leslee Hughes who tallied 30.8% in the race for Place 3. Place 1 saw Ben ton defeating Wayne Taylor 68.2% to 31.8%.

Items from the February agenda were addressed individually. The purchase

Brian Jackson ran unopposed for the Place 2 council seat.

See SPRINGVILLE, Page 2

Stewart wins in a landslide in Irondale

By Terry Schrimscher

Human bones found by local dog are connected, coroner says From Tribune staff reports

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – A human skull and a left tibia found by a dog in East Birmingham last year are confirmed to have belonged to the same person, according to the Jefferson County Coroner’s Office. The link was confirmed

SPRINGVILLE, Ala. — First term Springville council member Austin Phillips unseated incumbent mayor Dave Thomas to lead the City of Springville for the next four years. Phillips prevailed in a three-way race against Thomas and Russell Starnes, a career law enforcement officer. Both Phillips and Starnes were first

Jane Anderton unseats Charles Webster in Clay mayoral race

By Terry Schrimscher

Leeds High School freshmen take action to address rising school shootings

CLAY, Ala. — First time candidate Jane Anderton defeated incumbent Charles Webster to become mayor of the city of Clay on August 26. Anderton won with 51.6% of the vote against the threeterm mayor. Incumbents Chris Nail and Orletta Rush will return to serve on the next coun-

determined to address this pressing issue through their state conference project.

opened on Saturday.

By Terry Schrimscher

IRONDALE, Ala. – Bee enthusiasts will soon be swarming to Irondale to visit a new beekeeping education center designed to teach students and community members about the world of pollinators.

Mayor Bobby Scott will face Council President D. M. Collins in a runoff for mayor of Center Point in September after neither candidate won a clear majority in a three-way race to lead the city for the next term. Scott fell short of outright victory with 49% of the votes in the race against Collins and Frederick Burkes. Collins finished the evening with 27% of

Birmingham-based Foxhound Bee Company is preparing to break ground on the 5,000 square foot facility

in the coming weeks, which will serve as an expansion from its current location in Hardware Park. In addition to educational opportunities and STEM programming, the center will also sell a range of products sourced from bees, including honey and beeswax, as well as supplies for beekeepers.

IRONDALE, Ala. —

Irondale Mayor James D. Stewart Jr. easily held off a challenge from Birmingham businessman Ken Effinger to retain the mayor’s office for a second term on Tuesday night, August 26. The victory was announced soon after polls closed with Stewart winning decisively 2270 to 700.

It will be built across from the all-new Ruffner Sports Complex, which

Speaking to The Tribune,

Stewart offered comments about his vision for the future of the city moments after his victory was announced.

“When looking for a place to build our new beekeeping store, we continued to hear comments about how Irondale was doing great things,” said founder Adam Hickman.

“Everyone on the project seemed to speak highly of working with Irondale and its leadership. So, when we approached the

“Today’s election was a referendum on the new Irondale, and the people have spoken loudly and clearly—they want the work to continue,” said Stewart. “I am deeply honored by the trust our citizens have placed in me, and together we are ready to write the next chapter for our city. The future

of Irondale is bright, and we will keep building a stronger, more united community that we can all be proud to call home.”

Stewart has claimed several victories in his term as mayor including closing the deals to bring Publix and Costco to the city. He has also completed a new library, opened a dog park and renovated the city’s baseball fields.

The young leaders have not only compiled critical statistics but are also working with local officials and educators to promote stronger safety measures in schools. Their project, which will be presented at the FCCLA state conference in March, aims to raise awareness about the devastating impact of school shootings and propose actionable changes to improve safety protocols in Alabama

But his term has not

Current federal requirements mandate that schools perform lockdown or intruder drills; in Alabama, public schools are required to conduct two such drills per semester. However, Davis believes these measures are insufficient and is advocating for more frequent and comprehensive drills.

“When people’s lives are on the line, we can’t just do the bare minimum,” Davis said.

always been easy with a small, but vocal, group of opponents funded partially by outside interests. Despite that funding, Stewart, Irondale’s first African American mayor, was endorsed by former mayor Tommy Joe Alexander and several local business leaders.

By Jakob Gurley

sentiment, emphasizing the emotional and psychological toll that school shootings take on students and their families. “You shouldn’t have to worry about being scared when you’re just trying to learn,” Johnson said.

“We need to make sure that every school feels safe and ready to handle anything that could happen.”

McCormick highlighted the importance of turning awareness into action.

All five council members in Irondale faced opposition in the August 26 election.

“Schools should take intruder drills as seriously as they do fire or tornado drills.” Johnson echoed this

“School shootings are such a huge problem, and we

marking what Mayor James D. Stewart Jr. called a “generational project” for the fast-growing community. The groundbreaking ceremony, held Thursday

See STUDENTS, Page 3

RENOVATION, Page 4

DeMarco

A concept of the new education center in Irondale. (Foxhound Bee Company)

Pictured: Beatrice McCormick, Madilynn Johnson, and Amelia Davis.

of the city council. (Terry Schrimscher/Trussville Tribune)

See MOODY, Page 5 See ARGO, Page 5

Ben Short visited the Tribune shortly after winning the mayoral race.

The new Irondale City Council for the second Stewart administration: Erin Arnold, Aaron Sims, John London, Robert Box, and David Spivey. Contributed.

190 Main Street

Trussville, AL 35173 (205) 533-8664

Scott Buttram, Publisher publisher@trussvilletribune.com

Terry Schrimscher, Interim Managing Editor trusstribeditor@gmail.com

Johnny Sanders, Sports Editor John Goolsby, Sports Editor news@trussvilletribune.com

Sherry J. Parker, Marketing Executive & Photographer, sherry.parker@trussvilletribune.com

Brookelyn Rush, Office Manager

Brannon Dawkins, Tribune Unscripted Producer & Account Manager

Sean of the South: The Kid in You

By Sean Dietrich

Do this. Close your eyes. Take a deep breath. And remember what it was like to be a kid. Go ahead. I’ll wait.

Dive deep into your brain and locate your mental elementary-school yearbook. Flip through the pages. Find that cute blackand-white photo of yourself with that gap-toothed smile and enormous ears. Now hold that yearbook picture in your mind. Look how precious you are. Look how happy. Remember how great it was? Remember how un-

complicated it was, being a kid? Remember how your only occupation in this world—your highest ambition, your ultimate purpose, was to seek out and locate refined white sugar?

Remember sitting in Mrs. Welch’s Sunday school class as she played an upright piano and everyone sang “He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands” as Charlie Waters picked his nose so aggressively, he was literally touching his own brain matter? Remember how you actually believed the lyrics you were singing?

Recall how nothing bothered you. Even big stuff, serious stuff, it barely affected you. Sure, you had pain sometimes. But mostly, you didn’t worry. Even critical injuries didn’t bother you. You could fall off your bike, lose a tooth, or break your arm until a jagged piece of your humerus was poking through the skin. You’d cry. Then get back on your bike and start pedaling

home to Mama.

She’d hold you. Kiss your head. And somehow, deep in your heart, you weren’t that worried. Because you knew it was all going to be okay.

If you’re having a hard time remembering how immune to fear you were, try remembering chicken pox. Chicken pox is a life threatening illness. But you never knew that back then.

Whenever you or your friends got chicken pox, you never thought “death.” Chicken pox simply meant you got to stay home from school and watch reruns of “I Love Lucy.” But then you grew up. Then you got wise. You started worrying. Real Life steps in and shatters illusions of safety and security. Like a hammer on plate glass. Suddenly, life is not about sugar and fun. Life is about security. About having enough. About what you’re going to eat. What you’re going to wear. Where

you’re going live. Year after year, as you age, you abandon the idea that everything will turn out all right. You’re becoming an informed adult now, kiddo. And the more you know, the more you wish you didn’t. Welcome to reality. But I want you to bring back the childhood yearbook picture. That photo of yourself. The grainy blackand-white image. Now, I want you to focus on sending love to this child. Lots of love. Imagine you have a proverbial cannon of love. Blast that cannon of love at this child. Then, take this child into your arms. Hold him or her tightly. Squeeze them. Don’t let them go. Remind this baby in your arms that there is nothing to be afraid of. Not pain, not suffering, not injury, not rejection, not failure. Not even death. Especially not death, in fact. Because no matter how grown up you are, the song lyrics are still true.

Sean Dietrich

Photo courtesy of seandietrich.com

Alabama Ranks Among Top States for BlackOwned Businesses

abama is one of the nation’s best states for Black-owned businesses, according to a recent study released in recognition of National Black Business Month.

The report, conducted by B2B Reviews, ranked Alabama sixth overall. Researchers analyzed all 50 states and the District of Columbia across multiple factors, including the percentage of Black-owned businesses, population demographics, growth rates, business survival, household income, and annual payroll.

In Alabama, 21.95% of businesses are Black-owned, more than double the national average of 10.15%. The state also recorded a 27.76%

increase in Black-owned businesses between 2023 and 2024, highlighting significant growth in minority entrepreneurship.

Black residents make up 25.8% of Alabama’s population, the seventh-highest percentage nationwide. Advocates say that strong demographic representation provides an important foundation for business development and consumer support.

Nationally, Black-owned businesses contribute more than $207 billion to the economy and provide over 1.3 million jobs, according to the Association for Enterprise Opportunity. In Alabama, these businesses are seen as vital for job creation, economic mobility, and neighborhood revitalization.

While barriers remain — such as limited access to capital and disparities in household income — Alabama’s rankings in business survival and population representation signal favorable conditions for continued progress.

National Black Business Month, celebrated every August, highlights the contributions of Black entrepreneurs and encourages consumers and policymakers to support and invest in minority-owned enterprises.

According to the B2B Reviews report, Georgia, Delaware, and North Carolina ranked as the top three states for Black-owned businesses. Alabama, at sixth, ranked ahead of Texas, Florida, and the District of Columbia.

K1 Speed to open second Alabama location in Irondale

By Terry Schrimscher

IRONDALE, Ala. — Alabamians feeling the need for speed will soon have a new entertainment venue at The Hill at Grants Mill when K1 Speed opens its doors in Irondale. K1 Speed is the world’s largest indoor electric kart racing operator with more than 100 locations globally. The Irondale location will be the second in Alabama after the company bought Autobahn / Accelerate Indoor Speedway and assumed operation of the existing Autobahn location in Bessemer in 2024.

“As the largest indoor go-kart racing operator, K1 Speed is delighted to bring our world-class entertainment experience to the doorstep of the legendary Barber Motorsports Park,” said Tom Abbott of K1 Speed. K1 Speed, based in Irvine, Calif., expects to open by early 2026 and has a target date to open by the end of 2025. The company has leased the former Southeastern Salvage location in Irondale. The shopping center,

once known as Grants Mill Station, was rebranded earlier this year as The Hill at Grants Mill and is undergoing upgrades to attract new businesses to the area.

“This new venue promises to enrich Irondale and neighboring communities, reinforcing our shared passion for racing and creating a premier destination for fans, families, and aspiring drivers alike,” Abbott said. K1 Speed features high performance electric go carts that can reach speeds up to 45 mph for adult races while the junior version carts can reach up to 20 mph. Each location features a professionally designed

track, a Paddock Lounge café for food and beverages. Locations also feature spaces for private groups and corporate events.

“We’re excited to welcome K1 Speed to Irondale,” said Mayor James D. Stewart, Jr. speaking to The Tribune. “Their luxury go-karts are a perfect fit for our brand as the region’s luxury automotive capital. Alongside the exciting redevelopment of The Hill at Grants Mill Station, this is another sign that Irondale is open for business— where new opportunities join longtime favorites like Marty’s GM and Gus’s Hot Dogs.”

Photo Monkey Business Images.

Tribune Staff Reports

K1 Speed features electric go-karts and professionally designed tracks with a variety of race options.

Photo courtesy K1 Speed.

The K1 Speed sign is up on Grants Mill Road and the business is aiming to open by the end of the year.

Photo by Terry Schrimscher.

K1 Speed plans to open in the former Southeastern Salvage location in Irondale. Photo by Terry Schrimscher.

morning at the center’s site on Ratliff Road, drew city leaders, residents, and project partners who gathered to celebrate the start of construction. The facility, formerly the Zamora Temple, was purchased by the city in 2022 for $5 million. Since then, the property has hosted numerous community events and private functions, but leaders said the long-anticipated renovation will transform the site into a premier destination for recreation, events, and family life.

“This is one of the things our citizens asked for,” Stewart said. “Three years ago, we developed Blueprint Irondale, our comprehensive plan. People told us they wanted a place to meet, to gather, and to enjoy recreation.

Today, we’re fulfilling that request.”

The $19.96 million project was awarded to Shelby General Contractors, with Williams Blackstock Architects designing the renovation and Kemp Management Solutions overseeing the work. Stewart said the project will take 18 to 24 months to complete, though the timeline could stretch depending on what crews encounter during the renovation of the decades-old building.

“We’re not tearing the facility down, and once you start pulling down walls and pulling up floors, you

million renovation of the

The project is expected to take 18 to 24

never know what you’ll find,” Stewart said. “But we feel very confident our citizens will be able to enjoy this facility within two years.”

The city financed the project through general obligation bonds issued in 2024. Stewart noted that Irondale raised about $60 million in bonds to fund a series of projects aimed at shaping the city’s future. “This is a $20 million facility that we already have the funding for,” he said. “We want our citizens to see how their taxpayer dollars are working for them. We are being good stewards of what we were entrusted with.”

Once completed, the Civic Center will feature a state-of-the-art conference hall accommodating up to 1,500 people, community meeting rooms, a fitness center, upgraded parking, and an outdoor plaza. Family-friendly amenities will include a splash pad, play-

ground, pavilion, and walking trails, while new pickleball courts and an outdoor amphitheater are expected to become recreational focal points.

For Stewart, the project represents more than bricks and mortar. It symbolizes a new chapter for the city.

“In the history of Irondale, we’ve never had a place we can truly call home,” he said. “We’ve never had a facility where citizens could gather, dine, or enjoy recreation in one space. That’s why we’re investing in this now — to give our people something they can be proud of for generations.”

Mayor Stewart said he could already see the city’s pride swelling. “I see the joy, the jubilation, the happiness that everybody has here today,” he said. “We started this journey with community events like I Love Irondale Day, and standing here now, you can see the love that’s flowing from everyone in this city.”

Fighting The Fed, The Economy, and The Magnificent Ten

By David R. Guttery, RFC CEO, Keystone Financial Group

This year has been defined by three recurring themes: the Federal Reserve, the economy, and the “Magnificent Ten.” Each has fueled volatility, and each will shape the rest of 2025.

The Federal Reserve I wish President Trump would stop publicly calling for Jerome Powell’s resignation. Disputes between the Fed and the Executive Branch should be private. That said, I wouldn’t cut rates now either. The Fed is doing what it should, given the data.

Still, both Trump and Powell make valid points. The Fed’s preferred inflation gauge, the PCE deflator, sits at 1.9%—below the 2% target. Yet the U.S. discount rate remains 4.5%, versus Europe’s 2%. Trump argues this makes us less competitive globally. Powell counters that tariffs complicate the picture. In July, he said rates would likely already be lower if not for tariff policy.

Tariffs raise costs, and Powell doesn’t want to reignite inflation after years of fighting it. Trump sees tariffs as leverage for better trade deals. Both are right. What matters most is that the Fed remain independent, protecting confidence in our banking system.

Encouragingly, the U.S. is codifying new trade agree-

LEGAL NOTICE INVITATION FOR BIDS

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 bids 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.

Tutwiler Booster Pump Station

Project Number: 3-002-23

Bid Date and Time: September 18, 2025 at 10:00 AM Local Time

The work of the water main replacement will be let under one contract, the principal items of work are as follows:

1. Construct new booster house including site work.

2. Horizontal Split Case Pumps, generator, etc.

3. Temporary building with PRV

4. Complete with all electrical, structural, and mechanical items.

5. All miscellaneous items in accordance with plans and specifications.

Plans, Specifications, Contract Documents and Contractor Prequalification

Requirements 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) 228-1108.

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 $20,000.00 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 and plans as furnished by Trussville Gas and Water. Contractor must be licensed under the provisions of Title 34 Chapter 8, Code of Alabama, 1975 and must show evidence of license before bidding or bid will not be received or considered.

Prospective bidders must pre-qualify to bid on this project. Specific requirements are provided in the contract documents under “Notice to Bidders”. The deadline for submission of pre-qualification package is also listed.

ments almost weekly. As clarity builds, the Fed may gain flexibility to ease policy—potentially sparking strong market gains later this year.

The Economy By most measures, the economy is healthy. ISM manufacturing, durable goods, consumption, and money velocity don’t suggest decline. But July’s weak jobs report signals tariff headwinds. Rising costs may be causing businesses to pause expansion until trade policy stabilizes.

If clarity emerges, I expect a rebound. Trump’s first term offers precedent: trade turbulence eventually gave way to record highs in several economic metrics. Between 2017 and 2019, repatriated manufacturing fueled industrial growth, and wages—particularly for blue-collar construction and mining workers— rose by an average of 6.8% annually. By contrast, they rose only 1.7% under Obama and 0.7% under Bush. That suggests Trump’s policies did lift middle America. Today,

the economy balances between growth and stagnation. The outcome hinges on tariffs and Fed policy.

The Magnificent Ten

Perhaps the biggest concern is market concentration.

Ten mega-cap tech stocks make up nearly 38% of the S&P 500; two alone account for 15.5%. In 34 years, I’ve never seen anything like it. This surge is driven by enthusiasm for AI and future productivity gains. But enthusiasm doesn’t equal earnings. When NVIDIA suffered the largest single-day loss in market history this January, Tesla and Apple fell sharply too. We’ve seen this before with dotcoms in 2000 and housing in 2008. Bubbles may have different drivers, but they rarely end differently.

Outside of these names, however, the broader market is not overly valued. Investors should be aware of hidden concentration risk in index and growth funds, which are heavily skewed toward the Magnificent Ten.

Closing Thoughts

The economy is stable, but its path—boom or stagnation—depends on trade policy, Fed action, and whether today’s market imbalance corrects. My advice: focus less on the stock pick of the day and more on long-term planning. A disciplined, goal-driven strategy keeps attention where it belongs—on year-over-year progress, not short-term headlines.

Irondale Mayor James D. Stewart Jr., along with city officials and project partners, break ground Thursday on the $20

Irondale Civic Center.

months to complete.

Photo by Jakob Gurley.

time candidates. Phillips was appointed in January of 2023 after the death of long-serving council member Wayne Tucker in late 2022.

Phillips won convincingly in the contest with unofficial numbers showing more than 84% of the vote. Totals reported by the city clerk will be canvassed on September 2 and are not official until that time.

Although conventional wisdom often suggests a three-way race might favor an incumbent by splitting the challenger votes against a solid base of support for the incumbent, sometimes other factors come into play. The mayor and council have often held a contentious interpersonal relationship which may have contributed to the cam-

Leeds

734 votes (27.39 percent), while Michael French earned 616 votes (22.99 percent).

John Dawson finished with 15 votes (0.56 percent). Moore and Washington will face each other in a runoff election.

In the City Council District 1 race, no candidate cleared the 50 percent threshold. Sabrina Rose led with

Mayor Joe Lee decided not to seek a seventh term. Lee has served as mayor since 2003 after 11 years on the City Council.

cil Nail was unopposed and Rush defeated challenger Ezekiel Grubbs. Rush won convincingly with 71% of the vote.

Carla Youngblood defeated long-serving incumbent

Contributed

paign despite strong growth and positive media for popular attractions like the nature preserve in the city.

The Springville City Council has seven members representing seven districts. The mayor also votes along with council members. Three incumbent members of the current council—David Vinson from District 2, Katrina Hennings from District 4, and Sherry Reaves from District 7—and one candidate for an open seat,

197 votes (48.05 percent), followed by Kelly Lee with 123 votes (30 percent), Mashika Brown with 79 votes (19.27 percent), and Arthur Kirksey with 11 votes (2.68 percent). Rose and Lee will advance to a runoff.

In District 3, Cary Kennedy won outright with 498 votes (70.34 percent), defeating Johnny Dutton, who received 210 votes (29.66 percent).

In District 4, Ryan Holtbrooks secured 215 votes

In the City Council races, incumbent Linda Crowe retained her seat with 1,272 votes (57.8 percent) against challenger Brandy Gibson, who received 927 votes (42.2 percent).

Challenger Wes Harrell

Dean Kirkner for the Place 2 council seat.

Jody Harris ran unopposed for Place 4. Nathan Thompson defeated Terri Jackson 51.5% to 48.5%.

Voter turnout was low with an estimated 13% of registered voters participat-

Alec Bosworth, running in District 5, faced no opposition and were certified in July.

District 1 incumbent Herbert Toles defeated challengers Preston de la Parra and Marvin Herring to retain his seat on the council

District 3 candidates Ted Swartz and Jeff Whisenant competed for the open seat vacated by Austin Phillips. Whisenant narrowly defeated Swartz by five votes.

In District 6, incumbent Marshall Parker was defeated by challenger James Wolfe 129 to 77.

Election results were reported by the city clerk and a certificate of election will be issued after canvassing on September 2. Follow The Tribune online and in print for more news and interviews with candidates in our coverage area.

(52.96 percent), avoiding a runoff against Charlotte Hooton with 98 votes (24.14 percent) and Victoria Hamilton with 93 votes (22.91 percent).

In District 5, Dale Faulkner finished with 278 votes (58.40 percent), defeating DeVoris Ragland-Pierce, who earned 198 votes (41.60 percent).

The Leeds City Council meets on the first and third Mondays of each month at Leeds City Hall.

unseated incumbent Lynn Taylor, taking 1,227 votes (57.7 percent) to Taylor’s 900 votes (42.3 percent).

Council members Matt Morris, Chad Williams and Ellis Key were unopposed in their re-election bids.

ing in the municipal election. Election results were reported by the city clerk and a certificate of election will be issued after canvassing on September 2. Follow The Tribune online and in print for more news and interviews with candidates in our coverage area.

Trussville

James Miller defeated Mildred Reed 53% to 47% for the Place 4 council seat.

Irondale

District 1 incumbent John W. London faced a challenge from Matt McLean that could be described as polite and respectful. McLean, in comments on social media, thanked London for his previous accomplishments while suggesting it was time to move in a new direction, pointing out London’s attendance as an example, In the end, London prevailed with a vote of 507 to 141.

District 2 featured incumbent David Spivey against

the vote and Burkes followed with 24%.

Only one incumbent, Glenn Williams, ran for reelection in the city. Williams easily defeated two opponents with 53% of the votes for Place 5. Shante Lee Coleman and Wanda Wright followed with

Pinson

dreaux received 67 votes (10 percent).

Sanders becomes the city’s third mayor since its 2004 incorporation. Roberts, who had been appointed less than a year ago, sought a full term but lost.

City council races were also decided:

Argo

next four years,” Hettich posted.

Kimberly Farr took 58.7% of the vote over Anthony Montalto who garnered 41.3% for the Place 5 seat on the council. Election results were reported by the city clerk

former council member Donna Pike. Spivey, who currently serves as council president, easily defeated Pike who previously served on the Jefferson County Board of Education, with 319 votes to 95.

District 3 incumbent Cindy Cuellar initially faced two challengers with Erin Arnold and Marilyn Pritchard announcing campaigns to represent their district. Pritchard stepped down early and endorsed Arnold against the, sometimes, controversial incumbent who was censured by her fellow council members earlier this year. In the

24% and 23% of the vote, respectively. Williams previously held the seat for Place 2. Kefera Stokes, Place 2, and Moses Whitaker, Place 4, ran unopposed to fill the seats vacated by Williams, who won Place 5, and Sharon Jones formerly of Place 4.

Jasmain Deloach won the seat for Place 1 with a convincing 79% of the vote over

• Place 1: Tracie Thompson unseated incumbent Clinteshia Irvin with 424 votes (65 percent) to Irvin’s 228 (35 percent).

• Place 2: Brad Walker ran unopposed and retains his seat.

• Place 3: Dawn Tanner won with 401 votes (63.1 percent) over Angelica Jefferson’s 234 (36.9 percent).

• Place 4: Paula Sims ran

Incumbents Dennis Griffin and Rick Hopkins were reelected to serve on the council.

and a certificate of election will be issued after canvassing on September 2. Follow The Tribune online and in print for more news and interviews with candidates in our coverage area.

end, Arnold displaced Cuellar 556 to 509.

District 4 saw a strong challenge from Mary Sherer opposing incumbent Robert Box. Sherer has been outspoken on several issues but the voters turned out for the incumbent with Box winning 173 – 105.

Incumbent Aaron Sims faced two challengers in the race to represent District 5, Melanie Harris Colston and Anjanette Burkett Robinson. Sims prevailed without a runoff with 273 votes. Colston finished second with 154 and Robinson earned 64.

Tasha

and a certificate of election will be issued after canvassing on September 2.

unopposed and retains her seat.

• Place 5: Noel Holt led with 282 votes (44.3 percent); incumbent Glenda Kirkland received 241 votes (37.8 percent), followed by Chris Esquire with 114 votes (17.9 percent).

Pinson holds city council meetings on the first and third Thursdays of each month at City Hall.

New candidate Mike King along with former council member Corky Massey. Tom Suggs was unopposed in his bid for reelection.

As of press time, no final numbers were available from the clerk. This article will be updated online as numbers become available.

Raymond Olan, who finished with 21%.

Hogan won District 3 with 55% of the vote reporting.

She faced two opponents. James Howell pulled 33% of the votes while Tonya Sigers earned 12%. Election results were reported by the city clerk

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●PinsonCityCouncil Meetings: 1stand 3rdThursday of eachmonthat7 p.m.

●CenterPoint City Council Meetings:1st and 3rdThursday of eachmonth, at 6:30 p.m.

●ArgoCityCouncil Meetings:2nd and 4thMonday of eachmonthat5 p.m.

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Notice is hereby given that Hand Service Company, Inc., 110 Greenbrook Dr., Hazel Green, AL 35750, has completed all work on the Well #17 and #18 Project 3-010-23 and 3-011-23, for Trussville Gas and Water. All persons having any claim for labor, materials, or otherwise in connection with this project, should immediately notify the above named contractor and Trussville Gas and Water, 127 Main Street, Trussville, AL 35173.

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Plans, Specifications, Contract Documents and Contractor Prequalification Requirements 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) 228-1108.

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

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.

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Contractor must be licensed under the provisions of Title 34 Chapter 8, Code of Alabama, 1975 and must show evidence of license before bidding or bid will not be received or considered.

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Calendar

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.

● The M.W. Hosey American Legion Post 205, Clay-Trussville, meets on the 2nd Monday of each month at 6 p.m. at the Clay Community Center. Meetings are open to all veterans. Post 205 also meets on the 3rd Thursday of each month at 6 p.m. at the Trussville Applebee’s for a Veteran’s Pub night.

Anime & Unwind Fri Aug 29th

6:00pm - 8:00pm

Pinson Public Library

It’s our anime meetup for adults! Come to the library for Anime & Unwind. Enjoy Asian snacks & hang out with fellow anime enthusiasts.

Woman Propel Conference 2025 Sat, Aug 30 Leeds. Tower of Prayer Church

It’s time to RISE UP! Early bird registration is now

open! Join us for a weekend of sisterhood and empowerment as we pour into each other. Grab a seat for you and another sister! Register online. www.thetowerofprayer. org.

Novel & Short Story

Writing Group Tuesday, September 02 6:00pm - 7:30pm

Trussville Library Parkway Room

Writing and Critique MeetUp for Writers Are you a writer looking for a group? Join other writers for the opportunity to share from your current novel or short story and receive feedback from your peers. This group provides a friendly and welcome atmosphere to discuss different topics concerning the craft of writing. It meets the first Tuesday of the month at the library in the Parkway Room. This event is open to everyone and no registration is required.

Lunch and Learn

Wednesday, September 03 11:00am - 12:00pm

Trussville Library LBK Auditorium

Join us on the first Wednesday of every month for our Lunch and Learn program! Each month will have a different presenter discussing a new topic. Patrons are welcome to bring their own lunch or have some of the light refreshments that will be provided by the library.

September 3: The Removal of Creek Indians from Alabama and Georgia, 18271849 presented by Dr. Christopher Haveman

Computer Basics for Seniors

Wednesday, September 03

1:00pm - 2:00pm

Trussville Library Parkway Room

This series covers navigating Windows 11, internet, online safety and more.

Stay Connected & Safe Online: Computer Skills for Seniors. Ready to explore the internet, email loved ones, and protect yourself online? This 4-5 class series helps seniors gain a better understanding of the essentials. We cover everything from basic computer operation and internet searching to sending emails and crucially, recognizing common online fraud and security risks. Learn practical skills at a comfortable pace and discover resources for continued learning. Gain confidence and independence online!

School Age Storytime

Wednesday, September 03

4:00pm - 4:30pm

Trussville Library LBK Auditorium

Join Ms. Alicia for stories, songs, fun learning activities, and lots of fun! A storytime just for early elementary students! Join Ms. Alicia for stories, songs, fun learning activities, and lots of fun! This special storytime is designed for children ages 5-8 in mind. This event will be held in the library auditorium the 1st Wednesday of each month at 4:00 p.m. Parents and caregivers must remain in the library during the program and are welcome to join if they would like. K-2nd Grade. 1st Wednesday of each month at 4:00 p.m.

Drive-in Movie & Car Show September 5, 2025 Car Show Begins @ 6:00pm

Mizella “Jelly” Lepper

● 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 Meet

2nd and 4th

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:

March 9 at 1:30 p.m. - Extensive ACT review class

● Chess Club: Monday, March 10 at 5 p.m. - Learn the basics, cool tricks, strategy, opening, and tactic in chess from a ChessKidsNation coach

● Books & Brews: Monday, March 10 at 7:15 p.m. - An evening Adult Book Club meeting at Ferus Artisan Ales

● Ukulele Club: Tuesday, March 11 at 6:30 p.m. - Beginner ukulele club

5 – 7PM at Ridout’s in

● Preschoolers at Play: Wednesday, March 12 at 10:30 a.m. - Join us for a short movement and story with Ms. Alicia followed by free play with various toys

● Children’s Storytime: Thursday March 13 at 9:30 and 10:30 a.m. - Join Ms. Alicia for stories, songs, bubble time, and lots of fun

● Homeschool Hangout: Thursday, March 13 at 1 p.m. - A place for homeschool teens to hang out, socialize, and play games

Michael Alan “John” Riccio

May 13, 1962 — July 28, 2025

John Michael Alan Riccio, 63, of Birmingham, Alabama, passed away on July 28, 2025, at MD Anderson Cancer Center with his family by his side.

Born in Birmingham on May 13, 1962, John graduated from E.B. Erwin High School in 1980. He worked at UAB for 25 years before retiring in 2013. He was respected for his dedication, work ethic, and intelligence.

to lightful exciting & beloved

● Storytime for Growin’ Beans with Ms. Allison: Friday, March 7 at 10 a.m.

- Our theme is Smell. We’ll read books, have fun, do a craft, & have a snack

● Goat Yoga: Saturday, March 8 at 1 p.m. - Announcing “Goat Yoga” with our friends at Olive Valley Farms & our host, “Yoga with Kayla.” This will be a day of yoga, laughter, & the adorable company of friendly goats! Registration required

● Tech Tuesdays: Tuesday, March 11 at 10 a.m. -

Drop by for helpful tech tips and tricks with Mr. Keith!

Cherie Conn McGriff

Please bring your device with you if you are able

April 27, 1949 — July 28, 2025

A devoted Christian, John lived his faith with quiet strength and conviction. He found comfort in his belief and is now at peace, having passed into the presence of the Lord.

John had a wide range of interests. He enjoyed collecting antique Christmas ornaments and vintage jewelry, was passionate about muscle cars, fishing in Fairhope, and loved cooking. Some of his favorite moments were spent dove hunting with his sons and brothers or sharing a meal with family.

He was known for his generosity, loyalty, and straightforward nature. John was someone people trusted and enjoyed being around.

John is survived by his wife of 36 years, Renee Hollingsworth Riccio; his children, Sal (Julia), Mario, and Marissa; and his grandson, Leo. He also leaves behind his mother, Delores O. Mathews, and his

and Anthony Riccio. He was preceded in death by his father, Michael D. Riccio.

Clyde Bell

Cherie Conn McGriff, 76, of Pinson, Alabama, passed away unexpectedly on July 28, 2025. Born on April 27, 1949, in Fort Benning, Georgia, Cherie lived a life marked by compassion, dedication, and unwavering faith.

Cherie devoted over three decades of her professional life as an X-ray Technician at Southview Medical Group. Her career reflected her deep commitment to helping others and her tireless work ethic. Though she worked in many industries throughout her life, it was in healthcare where she found her calling— serving patients with kindness and professionalism for more than 30 years.

Trussville Public Library

● Geek Guild D&D (Teens): Tuesday, March 11 at 4:30 p.m. - We’re playing Dungeons & Dragons! Delve into the Forgotten Realm in this fantasy Role-Playing Game.

A woman of strong Christian faith, Cherie was a devoted member of Remlap First Baptist Church. She studied her Bible faithfully and engaged in daily worship. Her spiritual life was a cornerstone of who she was and guided her actions throughout her life. She believed deeply in service to others and lived that belief every day—always ready to lend a hand or offer a kind word. Cherie never met a stranger and had a gift for making everyone feel welcome and cared for. A true social butterfly.

● Young Adult D&D: Friday, March 7 at 4 p.m.D&D for ages 18-25

● Cult Classic Cinema: Thursday, March 13 at 5:30 p.m. - An evening highlighting the other half of Trussville’s Core Collection of movies–Cult Classics. This month’s feature: “Little Shop of Horrors” (1986) Pinson Public Library

● Junior Jamz: Wednesday, March 12 at 10 a.m.

- Bring your little kiddos to jam at the library! We’ll provide a variety of musical instruments for the children to explore

Cherie is survived by her loving husband, Michael McGriff; sister Patsy Lenox; brother Richard Hesler; and children Yvonne McMillin, Michael Cook (Debbie), Paula Richards (James), Bethany McGriff Ellis, Steve Conn (Gillion), and Lisa Curtis (Chris). She was a proud grandmother to Tiffany, Keven, Chris, Zac, Jeramy, Shelby, Brittney, Austin, Emily, Sadie, James, and Jack; and great-grandmother to Destiny, Leighann, DJ, Tabitha, Pearce, Natalie, Jonathan, Calikay, Hallie, and Asher.

Emily Sue Walton

● ACT Prep: Saturday, March 8 at 10 a.m. - Extensive ACT review class

● ACT Prep: Sunday

● Dahl’s Delightful Kits: March 3-8, All week - Join us as we celebrate the imaginative world of Roald Dahl! Stop by the library

She was preceded in death by her parents Virginia and Clarence Hesler; brother Carl Kuykendall; aunt Mildred Newsome; uncles Jim Newsome and Ray Franks; aunt Marcella Franks; late husband Lewis Dale Conn; and beloved granddaughters Megan and Tasha.

Cherie’s warmth touched the lives of many—family members who cherished her presence and countless others who were blessed by her generosity and spirit.

● Let’s Jam!: Thursday, March 13 at 4 p.m. - Are you learning to play an instrument or have you been playing for years? Come jam at the library!

August 28 - September 3, 2025

Hewitt-Trussville Blanks JAG 54-0 in Season Opener

By John Goolsby, Prep Sports Editor

TRUSSVILLE, Ala. -

Husky Fast lived up to its name. The Hewitt-Trussville Huskies wasted no time putting points on the board Friday night, needing just one play to take control in a 54-0 rout of the Jaguars.

On the game’s first snap, quarterback Zach Benedict found Dylan Cope streaking downfield for a 69 yard touchdown. The PAT was no good, but the Huskies were off and running. Benedict followed with a two-yard strike to CJ Davis at the 9:14 mark of the first quarter to extend the lead to 13-0. Running back Deuce Alston pushed the Husky lead to 20-0 on a one-yard plunge with 3:27 left in the quarter. Davis added a three-yard rushing touchdown to make it 27-0.

Backup quarterback Jack Floyd connected with DJ Hall on an 11-yard score to stretch the lead to 34-0 early in the second quarter. A 75-yard drive ended with a James Kelly’s eight-yard touchdown run to make it 41-0 with 4:29 remaining in the half.

The Jaguars pieced together their best drive of

the night late in the second quarter, moving inside the Hewitt red zone before turning the ball over on downs with 16 seconds left. The Huskies returned the ball on the next snap, but the Jags fumbled as the half expired. In the second half, Tyler Wilson put the finishing touches on the win with touchdown runs of one and four yards.

Hewitt piled up 446 total yards, including 186 on the ground. Alston led the Husky rushing attack with nine carries for 57 yards. Cope led the receiving corps with

three catches for 84 yards and a touchdown.

Benedict was perfect in his first varsity start, completing all eight passes for 159 yards and two scores. Floyd went 7-for-9 passing, while Harris Tuggle finished 3-for-3.

The Huskies’ defense turned in a dominant effort, holding JAG to 209 total yards. The Jaguars failed to compete a single pass on ten attempts. Parker Floyd led the Husky defense with a team-high seven tackles.

Hewitt (1-0) will travel to Gadsden City next Friday.

Cougars Roll Past Hueytown in Season Opener

By Brittney Bailey, For the Tribune

HUEYTOWN, Ala.– A

rain delay Friday night in Hueytown was no match for the Clay-Chalkville Cougars as they stormed past the Golden Gophers in their season opener, 42-15.

After a sluggish start, the Cougars broke through late in the first quarter when quarterback Aaron Frye found Jacari Johnson for a 15-yard touchdown with 2:55 on the clock.

On Hueytown’s next possession, the Cougar defense forced a safety to extend the lead to 9-0. Just a minute later, running back Josh Woods bolted 36 yards for another score, putting Clay-Chalkville up 15-0 heading into the second quarter.

The Cougars didn’t let up. Frye connected with Corey Barber on a 63-yard strike early in the second, then the two hooked up four minutes later for an 88-yard touchdown. Barber added even more damage with a 35-yard punt return for a score.

Just before the half, Jamario Yadeo capped off a fake punt with another touchdown to send the Cou-

gars to the locker room leading 42-0.

Clay-Chalkville’s defense held firm until the fourth quarter, when Hueytown finally broke through with two touchdowns and a two-point conversion.

By then, the Cougars were already in cruise control, sealing a convincing 42-15 victory.

“The defense played really, really well. They got after them,” said head coach Stuart Floyd, though he noted penalties on special teams as an area to clean up. On the Frye-Barber connection, Floyd added, “They put in a lot of work this summer on the connection they have.”

Barber, an Ole Miss commit, said his punt return was the highlight of his night: “I told myself if he kicked it to me, I was going to six it. He kicked it to me, and I knew I had to make a play.”

Barber finished the night with 266 all-purpose yards and three scores. Frye was seven of twelve for 191 yards and three scores, adding 62 yards on the ground. Woods led the Cougars’ rushing attack with 83 yards on seventeen carries.

The Cougars (1-0) host Ramsay next week at Jerry Hood

Field at Cougar Stadium.

Huskies defeat JAG 54-0 in opener. Credit: Ron Burkett

Corey Barber had a huge night for the Cougars. Credit: Jake McCune

Corey Barber – Wide Receiver for Clay-Chalkville Cougars

New-look Greenies dominate Mortimer Jordan

By Will Heath, Sports Writer Emeritus

LEEDS — Ninth-ranked

ing, finishing with 199 all-purpose yards and two scores.

late in the first quarter.

Mounties Conquer the Castle in Bates’ debut

By Shane Paschal, For the Tribune

Birmingham, Ala.Woodlawn has recently taken to calling its campus “The Castle,” and tonight, the Mounties stormed the Castle grounds and came away with a hard-fought 15–12 opening-game win.

Leeds rode a dominant offensive performance Friday night to a 45-28 victory over Mortimer Jordan, to open the 2025 season.

“I was excited to see how we performed offensively,” Gaiter said after the game.

“Man, I’m so excited.”

“We kind of caught up with the speed of the game as the game went along,”

The Mounties took the opening kickoff and, after two first downs, punted to the Colonels. Valley’s defense held, and Woodlawn punted back, with the Mountie returner bringing the ball back to the Colonels’ 28-yard line. Jamie Small carried it down to the seven, and two plays later, quarterback Antwan Kelser ran it in from five yards out for the game’s first score. The extra point was no good, leaving the Mounties up 6–0.

Credit: John Goolsby

By John Goolsby, Prep Sports Editor

The number one-ranked Hewitt-Trussville baseball team went 4-0 in Georgia over the weekend.

The Greenwave offense, in their first game following the departure of do-everything senior quarterback Conner Nelson, got 173 yards and three touchdowns on the ground from sophomore back Jacarrious Davis. Davis took a direct snap 67 yards for the game-opening score, only his second carry of his high school career.

“I know if I run hard nobody will be able to stop me,” Davis said after the game. “So I did that.”

By John Goolsby, Prep Sports Editor

IRONDALE

– Shades Valley had four student-athletes participate in the school’s signing day on Friday. One volleyball player and three football players signed their National Letters of Intent.

That 173 yards was a key contributor for an that gained nearly 500 yards for the game, production Leeds (1-0) needed to maintain its advantage against a Mortimer Jordan passing attack that kept the visitors in the game for most of the second half.

Volleyball standout Ashley Peake signed with Xavier University.

Wideout Taylon Gaiter, now a junior, touched the ball 11 times rushing and receiv-

The second of Gaiter’s touchdowns helped give Leeds a decided advantage, in addition to padding the junior’s highlight reel. Gaiter hauled in a screen pass from senior quarterback Sam Lollar, raced up the sideline and juked the final defender for a 74-yard touchdown.

The Huskies, 10-0, defeated Mill Creek (GA), LaGrange (GA), Central Phenix City, and Morgan County (GA).

“We had a great two-day run for four games,” said head coach Jeff Mauldin. “It

“It (the juke) was kind of for theatrics,” Gaiter said.

“(The defender) was just kind of running, running and then when he finally looked at me, I just bounced back outside.”

Mortimer Jordan head coach Heath Lauderdale said afterward. “(Our players) gave their guns. They played their hearts out. But hats off to Leeds, they did an excellent job.”

was truly a total team effort to win the tournament. Most everyone on the roster contributed in some way to help us win all four games.”

“We played some highly respected programs from Al-

A&M earlier this month.

After the teams traded possessions, the Mounties intercepted a Colonel pass at the Woodlawn 40 and returned it to the 25. The first quarter ended with Valley leading 6–0.

Huskies move to 10-0 after Georgia road trip

abama and Georgia and continued to grow as a team,” he said.

Steele Hall, Drew Ollis, Christian Helmers, and Hudson Mitchell. made the All-tournament team.

• Landy Saxton, football, signed with Huntingdon College

• CJ Ford, football, signed with Bethel College Johnny Steele, football, signed with Coffeyville Community College Dreshan Cook, football, signed with Bethel College earlier this month. Aidan Smith, football, signed with Alabama

Landy Saxton, football, signed with Huntingdon College.

Leeds needed the points to help keep pace with the Blue Devils (0-1), who stayed in the game thanks to 169 passing yards and three touchdowns from quarterback Blaze Neely. The junior didn’t start the game because he had been suffering from an ear infection. His first pass once he entered the game was a 72yard catch and run by senior Jacob Cawley, to put Mortimer Jordan on the board

Lollar showed command of the offense in his first night as a full-time starting quarterback for the Greenwave. The senior finished with 220 yards and two touchdowns through the air, adding 32 yards on the ground. The last three of those yards came on a thirddown quarterback sneak to seal the win with 3:09 to play in the game.

Leeds head coach Jerry Hood praised his team’s offensive output after the game.

• Jasmine Terry, volleyball, signed with Lee in November.

• Kindle Wright, volleyball, will sign with Dillard University in March.

“I was proud as heck of them,” Hood said. “We got a lot of things to clean up. We’re happy to get the win.”

• Peake, Terry and Wright played for Coach Kimberly Cook.

• Steele, Ford, Saxton, Cook and Smith played for former head coach Rueben Nelson.

Mortimer Jordan opens its home schedule next week against Cullman. Leeds will go on the road to face Shades Valley in another non-region game.

The second quarter opened with both teams turning the ball over on downs. Kelser then broke free on two straight runs of 18 and 23 yards, setting up first-and-goal. But Woodlawn intercepted a pass in the end zone and returned it to the two. Valley responded with another interception, taking over at the Colonel eight-yard line. Small punched it in from eight yards out, and with the extra point, Valley led 13–0 with 2:56 left in the half. On the Mounties’ next possession, Woodlawn intercepted a pass and returned it 55 yards for a touchdown. The extra point was no good, and with 1:03 left in the half, Valley’s lead was cut to 13–6. That score held at halftime.

Woodlawn received the second-half kickoff and marched down the field, aided by a 40-yard pass that set up first-and-goal. The Colonels scored on a five-yard pass, trimming the deficit to 13–12. The two-point conversion failed, and with 10:09 left in the third quarter, the Mounties held a one-point lead. After swapping possessions twice, the third quarter ended with Valley ahead 13–12.

Steele went 11 for 15 with ten runs scored, two triples, one double, and six RBIs and was named tournament MVP. Mitchell threw a three-hit complete game shutout with seven strikeouts.

Early in the fourth, Woodlawn drove 50 yards, but Valley intercepted at their own 30 and returned it to the Colonel 45. A pass interference penalty and a 25yard run moved the Mounties to first-and-goal at the five, but they failed to score on four downs. Woodlawn took over at its own twoyard line. On the next play, the Colonels threw the ball away from the end zone, resulting in a safety and giving the Mounties a 15–12 lead with 6:47remaining.

The teams then traded in-

threw a complete game one-hitter with seven strikeouts and offensively had five hits and reached base on 10 of 13 plate appearances.

terceptions, and Woodlawn later turned the ball over on downs at their own 32 with 2:34 left. A few plays later, Valley broke a 40-yard run to set up first-and-goal at the two. The Mounties knelt on the ball and ran out the clock, securing a gritty 15–12 road win over the Woodlawn Colonels.

The Huskies host Huntsville this Tuesday.

“I’m a defensive guy,” said first-year Shades Valley head coach George Bates. “I’m proud of the defense. They only gave up one score.”

“I’m proud of the offense, they kept plugging along,” Bates said.

“Im proud of the team,” he said. “We got up by two scores and then they got momentum due to a turnover.”

“I’m proud of the crowd here,” he said. “I am proud to get my first win as the head coach of Shades Valley High School.”

The 1-0 Mounties return home to host the Leeds Greenwave in their home opener next week.

Steele, Ford and Saxton with family and friends. Credit: John Goolsby

Helmers

Huskies move to 10-0. Credit: HTHS

Pinson takes one on the chin from 7A powerhouse, Central

By Johnny Sanders, Sports Editor

PINSON

– The Pinson Valley Indians started their 2025 season off the same way they started the previous year. Playing a tradition 7A juggernaut in Central Phenix City, coached by Patrick Nix, who won two state championships on The Reservation not too long ago. On Friday, the Indians suffered the same fate as they did last year when they took the trip down south.

started on a long pass play for the Devils at the 9:44 mark of the first quarter. Pinson would be unable to get anything going on offense and gave it right back to Central. The Red Devils got down inside the Pinson 20 and found paydirt on a short run from the five to make it 14-0 with 3:52 to go in the first.

Another score at the 2:09 mark made it 21-0 Devils and that is how the first period would end.

making it 45-0 as the teams headed into the locker room.

The offensive onslaught slowed a bit in the third as the Red Devils turned to their running game. Pinson found some success in the third quarter as sophomore running back Simeon Conner ran the ball in from five yards out and got the Indians on the board to make it 45-8.

down would make the final 59-16.

“Those guys are good,” said second-year Pinson coach James Thompson. “They are a tough team. We played the run well but they hit us hard in the pass game. We turned the ball over three times on offense. Tough to beat anybody like that. But I am looking forward to getting back to work.”

C al en da r

Central jumped out to a big lead early and never looked back. The scoring

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Central would use a potent passing attack as well as a 95-yard touchdown run to stack up 24 more points before the halftime break,

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Central would score again, but sophomore quarterback Raymond Howard and the Indian offense would not give up. Howard took a quarterback keeper 31 yards, making it 52-16. Another Red Devil touch-

The Indians welcome in the Gardendale Rockets on Friday night, who also faced a 7A opponent in week one, losing 35-21 to James Clements, who is coached by former Hewitt-Trussville assistant Juan Johnson.

Springville begins Metcalf era with tough loss

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SPRINGVILLE – The Springville Tigers opened up the 2025 season and the Chris Metcalf era with a tough 27-21 loss at home to the rival Ashville Bulldogs.

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Springville’s Trigg Murdoch opened the game with a monstrous 85-yard kickoff return that cranked up the energy inside Bagley Harris Stadium.

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Soon after, Ashville answered right back to tie the game at seven apiece.

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Using a potent running game, Ashville built a 14-7 lead against a Springville defense that bent quite a bit, but did not break very often in this contest. The one-two punch at quarterback and running back gave the Springville defense fits. However, the Tigers hung in there and the first quarter ended with a seven-point deficit for the home team.

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In the second quarter, it was more of the same.

Ashville came out running the ball early and often and were very efficient with several ball carriers picking up some big yards. The Tiger defense stood strong in the red zone, only allowing Ashville to score one more, making it 21-7. Springville answered lat-

er in the second as Brennan Archer found senior Parker Zann for a 69-yard touchdown pass to make it 21-14. Late in the second quarter, key wide receiver Trigg Murdoch made a great catch and set his team up with a first down, but he took a hard hit and left the game

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with an apparent head injury. Murdoch would not return to the game.

In the second half, both teams continued to be strong defensively.

Ashville continued to have success running the ball well as they extended their lead with a 63-yard

touchdown run that saw the back break multiple tackles to reach paydirt. With the score sitting at 27-14, the Tigers, determined to fight their way back into the game, got to the one-yard line when Brennan Archer found Parker Zann once again on a play that saw the senior receiver make a Tyrone Prothro-like catch to get the Tigers into scoring position. Gavin Weber punched it in from a yard out and it was now a six-point game with the Bulldogs clinging to a 27-21 lead.

Time was ticking and the game was winding down as the Tigers marched down the field for a final drive. They moved the ball efficiently, but some costly penalties set them back and, on a fourth and long, Archer threw a pass into the waiting arms of an Ashville defender with 40 seconds to play, giving the Bulldogs their first win under new head coach Mark Sanders.

“Obviously the first

game did not go as we had hoped or planed,” said first-year head coach Chris Metcalf. “I’m really proud of the fight that my guys showed. They dealt with adversity well. But there were too many mistakes and too many penalties that we’ve got to clean up. I take full responsibility for that. I know what it takes to get these things fixed and I know my guys and my coaches will do it.”

Speaking about some key offensive players, Metcalf said, “Parker Zann came up big tonight. We really needed a guy to step up and take charge in that room. Parker is a senior in that group and Brennan was able to find him a couple of times for some big plays when we needed to build some momentum.”

The Tigers go on the road next week to take on Fairview who won their

Friday

season opener

night in dominant fashion 48-0 over Fultondale.

Pinson’s Raymond Howard. Credit: Ron Burkett

Springville captains for the 2025 season opener against Ashville. Brady Caldwell (10), Tyler Tatum (20), Aiden Davis (18), and Cody Parker (0).