The Trussville Tribune – Mar. 27 - Apr. 2, 2025

Springville man named ABC of Alabama Safety Director of the Year

From Tribune staff reports

City disputes findings after Trussville’s credit rating drops

By Chris Basinger, News Editor

TRUSSVILLE, Ala. –S&P Global has lowered its long-term general obligation warrant rating for the City of Trussville from “AA+” to “AA,” citing budget deficits and declining reserves.

In its report, the credit rating firm stated that the negative outlook reflected its view that the city’s reserves are likely to decline further due to an expected FY24 deficit, a budgeted deficit for FY25, and the “lack of concrete plans to balance operations and replenish reserves in a timely manner absent one-time revenue sources.”

Glendale Farms property to be used as the future site of a proposed new elementary school and $5 million on a property on Service Road that prevented the construction of a 500 unit apartment complex.

the disIrondale hosts mayors summit, donates $10,000 to Crime Stoppers By

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. –

Drew Hall of Garrison Steel has been named the 2025 Safety Director of the Year Associated Builders and Contractors of Alabama.

“Drew has consistently represented Garrison Steel with professionalism, pas-

SAFETY DIRECTOR, Page 3

“The downgrade reflects a multi-year trend of deficits, partially driven by capital expenditures, but also reflecting what we view as imbalanced operations, which resulted in sustained draws on reserves that are no longer comparable with ‘AA+’ peers,” S&P Global Ratings credit analyst Karolina Norris said.

Mayor Buddy Choat said they are not surprised that the city’s rating dropped giv-

en last year’s budget deficit, but that they are taking issue with some of the language used in the report including the claim that there are no long-term plans to address the declining reserves.

According to the mayor, after receiving the initial report from the firm, the city was not given the opportunity to submit a response to the findings before the report was brought before the committee for review, which he said was “very unusual.”

“The biggest thing we had was we didn’t get a

New ice cream shop opens in Margaret

From Tribune staff reports

MARGARET, Ala. – A new ice cream shop is bringing delicious desserts to the city of Margaret.

Kravin Ice Cream & Treats, owned by Deunta and Niki Davis along with their son Dylan, officially opened its doors on March 1, offering locals a new spot to indulge in everything from classic single-scoop ice cream cones to loaded milkshakes and sundaes.

The Davis family’s vi-

sion for the shop goes beyond just serving ice cream as they hope Kravin will be a welcoming place for families to gather and make lasting memories.

“We want this to be a space where the community can come together [and] where kids can enjoy a fun and safe environment,” Niki said.

The new shop is located at 115 Jeffrey Wilson Dr. and open Tuesday through Sunday from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.

chance to respond once we saw their letter, and for them to say the outlook is negative was concerning to us because we felt like we have some things in place,” Choat said.

“Our disappointment in the report came mainly from the language that they talked about how it appeared that the city was continuing this trend and that reserves would continue to drop with no concrete plans in there.”

The city has tapped into reserves in recent years to fund major purchases including $4 million on the

The city has since agreed to sell the Service Road property to a developer who plans to build about 190 homes, but was only able to recoup $3 million on the sale with the mayor saying that city had to match the price the apartment developer was willing to pay but that selling it for the same amount would be too expensive for a housing developer.

The city has also taken in less revenue, mostly due to a decline in sales tax revenue, which makes up about two-thirds of its general fund budget.

In FY24, the city budgeted for sales tax revenues of $33.6 million but only took in $30.9 million.

This fiscal year, the city budgeted sales tax revenues of $32.4 million and passed its FY25 budget with a deficit of almost $1 million.

See TRUSSVILLE, Page 2

Chris Basinger, News Editor

encourage working across borders to tackle crime and

Walking with cancer patients ‘Through The Valley’

By June Mathews

On December 29, 2022, Ken Couch began to experience severe abdominal pain. His wife was out of town, so as the pain grew more intense, he called his daughter, and they headed to the nearest emergency room.

Given the level and location of the pain, medical personnel suspected a kidney stone. A CT scan con-

firmed it. But the test also revealed something else–a mass on Couch’s appendix.

“They sent me home and said I should follow up with a urologist about the kidney stone, which I did in early January,” Couch said. “She wanted me to wait and see if I could pass it without intervention.”

The urologist also urged him to consult a gastroenterologist regarding the mass on the appendix.

“She looked me in the eyes and said, ‘Don’t wait on this. It’s important that you be seen right away,” he said. “That really got my attention.”

An appointment was scheduled with a gastroenterologist for later in the month. In the meantime, Couch continued to deal with the kidney stone, all the while wondering what

See COUCH, Page 3

City of Trussville Logo (Photo by Hannah Curran)

Owners Niki, Dylan, and Deunta Davis.

One of the many sweet treats on the menu at Kravin.

Ken and Carol Couch

The Trussville Tribune

190 Main Street

Trussville, AL 35173 (205) 533-8664

Scott Buttram, Publisher publisher@trussvilletribune.com

Chris Basinger, News Editor chris.basinger@trussvilletribune.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

Heritage Days

From front page

the Gee’s Bend Quilters, music at The Gateway, historic home tours, and more.

Most events are free to the public.

Heritage Days will kick off on Tuesday, April 1 with the Alabama Plein Air Artists painting scenes across the Cahaba Project neighborhood, which they will do throughout the week.

Trussville will then welcome the Gee’s Bend Quilters, who share a unique Great Depression origin with the Cahaba Project, for a free meet and greet at the library on Thursday, April 3 at 6 p.m.

The quilters will then host a two-day quilting workshop Friday, April 4 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday, April 5 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Trussville Public Library.

This year, workshop participants can choose to attend Friday only, Saturday only, or both days. Tickets are $50 per workshop day.

On Friday, April 4 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., country music singer/songwriters

Teacher Award

From front page

trict announced. Chatta has been teaching for over 30 years and has served as a lead mentor and E-team leader as well as a member on various committees.

Trussville

From front page

But Choat said the city is making an effort to try to make up the deficit by the

Adam Craig, Ray Fulcher, and Jordan Walker will take the stage at the Trussville Entertainment District.

Craig has written songs recorded by Jason Aldean, Dustin Lynch, Montgomery Gentry, Parmalee, George Strait, Kane Brown, and Cody Johnson, among others. Fulcher has co-written six No. 1 songs and has had more than 25 songs recorded by Luke Combs, along with cuts by Chris Young,

Shernell Lewis, who teaches physical science at Hueytown Middle School, was named Secondary Teacher of the Year.

Zac Brown Band, Riley Green, Kameron Marlowe, and Dillon Carmichael, among others.

Walker, formerly of the country music duo Walker McGuire, has had songs recorded by Combs, Johnson, Brown, Cold Swindell, Jordan Davis, Trace Adkins, and Drew Baldridge, among others.

He was a co-writer on the multi-week No. 1 single “When It Rains, It Pours” by Combs, which has been

certified by RIAA as a diamond single.

On Sunday, April 6, attendees will have the chance to tour four unique Trussville homes–an original four-room cottage, a renovated one-story, a recently renovated two-story home on the Mall, and a new home that embraces its links to the past.

The tours will run from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. with parking and check-in at Cahaba Elementary School.

Accent Limo will shuttle guests to the homes and back to parking.

Tickets are $20 and are available through the Trussville Area Chamber of Commerce’s website.

This event will also feature two raffle basket giveaways, each totaling $500 worth of gift cards to local businesses.

All tickets purchased for the home tour before April 5 are eligible to win the raffle baskets.

Tickets may also be purchased at the home tour check-in table on April 6. For more information, visit cahabaheritage. org/2025-heritage-days.

Lewis is currently in her seventh year of teaching in JEFCOED and has earned a national teaching certification from the National Institute for STEM Education (NISE).

“Are we going to be able to make up the total deficit–we don’t know, but we have some things in place and noted that we had doubled our lodging tax

“Both of these teachers have set the bar incredibly high. They are the example of what teachers should strive to become,” Superintendent Dr. Walter Gonsoulin said.

“Both of them bring

like that,” Choat said. He added that the city was able to submit its response to the findings last week and that it would be taken before the committee

their best every day, to get the best out of their students. We are grateful for their unwavering commitment to education, and we are blessed to have them in our district.”

Chatta and Lewis will go on to compete for Alabama Teacher of the Year.

port corrected and that the downgrade to AA, which is still considered high grade, should not change anything for the city.

“AA rating is still very

The 2024 Heritage Days festival featured multiple events throughout the week. Photos by Amy Peterson O'Brien and Chris Basinger

was going on with his appendix.

“I sat at home with my mind racing, trying not to be afraid but knowing it could be serious,” he said.

And he was right. During Couch’s visit, the gastroenterologist took one look at the CT scan and immediately referred him to a surgeon.

Surgery was scheduled for February 17, which meant the kidney stone had to go. So, on February 3, Couch underwent a procedure to remove the stone, after which complications set in. Regardless, the appendix surgery moved forward as scheduled.

The post-surgery pathology report came back with a diagnosis of goblet cell adenocarcinoma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer typically found in the appendix. Couch had done enough online research to know cancer was a possibility. But to suspect it and to have it confirmed were two different things.

Safety Director

sion, and integrity,” ABC

Alabama President Jay Reed said.

“His top priority is always ensuring that his team members have the necessary resources and training to get home to their families. Drew is certainly deserving of this recognition.”

L oca L / R egion

“It’s a sobering thing when you’re forced to face your own mortality,” he said. “Was I going to die? How would this affect my family? Would I experience pain? Would we have the resources to get treatment?”

As he prepared for whatever the next step would be, Couch reflected, prayed, and trusted God with the outcome.

Through online interactions with appendix cancer patients and the Appendix Cancer Research Foundation, he found an Emory University specialist who recommended another surgery to harvest lymph nodes from the colon to see if the cancer had spread.

The third surgery, which not only removed lymph nodes but ten inches of the colon as well, took place that April. About 10 days later, Couch and his family were elated to learn that he was cancer-free.

“No chemotherapy required, just monitoring every six months for recurrence,” Couch recently reported in a recent presenta-

Hall began his career as a firefighter and EMT. While pursuing his associate’s degree in occupational safety and health, he worked as an industrial firefighter for a large steel mill.

Following a 10-year stint at the steel mill, he served as a safety coordinator at a major local foundry before becoming safety director at Garrison Steel in 2017.

“As a firefighter, you see a lot of bad situations, many of which are preventable, and it was during that time that I became fascinated by safety protocols and preventing the preventable,” Hall said. “I am extremely honored to receive this recognition. It represents years of training paying off and a daily commitment to getting our guys

tion to the Trussville Noon Rotary Club. “And that’s where I am today.”

But, he said, his appendix cancer journey soon became the catalyst for a different kind of cancer journey, one that he hopes will last far into the future and benefit many people along the way.

In the fall of 2024, Couch and his wife, Carol, founded Through The Valley (TTV), a nonprofit organization established to alleviate the financial burden of cancer on patients and their families and to address their spiritual needs as they battle this disease. The name was derived from the “valley of the shadow of death” King David referred to in Psalm 23:4.

Though TTV is focused on helping cancer patients in Trussville and nearby areas, such as Springville, Argo, and Moody, Couch’s dream is to one day extend the organization’s scope statewide. Distributions will provide financial assistance for medical treatment, patient care, and family support.

home safe.”

“During his time with our company, Drew has consistently been a champion of training and innovation. He has continually

“Even if someone has medical insurance, the copays and other costs not eligible for reimbursement can be significant,” he said. “Any money raised locally remains within our community, which means TTV funds will help your neighbors, the people you work with, the families of kids who go to school with your kids, or people you attend church with.”

To build strength of purpose into TTV, Couch invited people who, like him and his family, have experienced cancer to help lead the organization.

“All of our directors have been affected by cancer either personally or by being related to someone who died of cancer or has cancer now,” he said. “We all have walked through the valley, and now we want to help others.”

To donate to Through The Valley or to make its Board of Directors aware of a cancer patient in need of assistance, call (205) 7069896 or email throughthevalley@myyahoo.com.

found ways to make our operation safer and more productive,” said Jason Garrison, owner of Garrison Steel.

“Drew is unquestionably committed to our company, but his first commitment is to the health and safety of our team. This comes easily for Drew because his genuine care for our employees drives his every decision and idea.”

Hall was promoted to director of human resources at Garrison Steel earlier this year. A native of Hamilton, Ala., he currently resides in Springville with his wife and two sons.

Irondale Mayor presents JEFCOED Superintendent with Key to the City

From Tribune staff reports

IRONDALE, Ala. –Jefferson County Schools

Superintendent Dr. Walter Gonsoulin was presented with the Key to the City of Irondale.

Gonsoulin was given the honor in recognition of being recently named National Superintendent of the Year at the AASA National Conference on Education. He is the first superintendent from Alabama to receive the honor.

“To be able to get the Key to the City, you’ve had to be able to do something that is outstanding, that is

remarkable,” Mayor James D. Steward Jr. said.

“It gives me great joy to be able to present this award to a man that’s not only my friend, but has done some exceptional things when it comes to education,” he continued.

“It’s really an honor and a privilege to first compete for the National Superintendent of the Year and then to represent Jefferson County, Alabama, [and] the Greater Birmingham area,” Gonsoulin said.

Watch the presentation and the full Irondale City Council meeting on The Tribune’s website.

Drew Hall

Mayor Stewart presents Dr. Gonsoulin with the Key to the City. (City of Irondale)

Bodean’s celebrates first year in Trussville

By Johnny Sanders

TRUSSVILLE, Ala. –

On Friday, March 21, Bo-

dean’s Classic Cuts and Color celebrated one year of open doors, warm greetings, quality haircuts, cold drinks, and a comfortable, vintage feeling as you walk through the doors of their Trussville location.

“It’s crazy, a year ago we were sitting here on day one praying one person would walk in,” said stylist Tina Brown. “Today, we have not had one open spot and we are having to tell people we are booked.”

In celebration, Brad Weimar, the owner of Bodean’s, provided a day’s worth of pizza, cake pops and goodies for his stylists, as well as birthday decorations inside of the store and branded balloons to celebrate the day.

“Trussville has been awesome,” said Brad Weimar, owner of Bodean’s.

“They are some of the friendliest people we’ve seen. It’s a good town.”

After four years of success in Hoover, Weimar opened Bodean’s in Trussville, saying, “I thought the city was underserved in a way. The way we do business and our look, I thought that the people in Trussville would really like it. The people have really responded well. We are almost ready to bring on another person, maybe two by the end of the year.”

Weimar continued, “We looked at 280, but there are 26 barbershops in that one area. Also, the clientele we

are looking for is not ultra high-end. I want people like me, who are just normal, everyday people who aren’t going to spend $50 on a haircut. I wanted a place you could bring your kids and everything is PG rated or under. Just give them a quality haircut at a decent price.”

When you walk through the door at Bodean’s, you will be met with a warm greeting and, if you have been there a few times, you will be called by your first name by either Tina, Jessica, Tara, Jada or Nicole, the manager.

The walls are covered with posters, pictures, trinkets, and toys from the past, giving Bodean’s a vintage feel as a wide variety of music, old and new, plays over the speakers.

“I have always collected things from my childhood, that I liked. I filled up my house with it, and my wife said it had to go. So, I put it in my stores. I like bringing back memories for people.”

Each time you enter Bodean’s, in addition to a greeting that rivals what you would receive if you were an actor in the show “Cheers,” you will be asked if you would like a drink. Bodean’s has a full fridge, stocked with a variety of beers, various sodas and even Kool Aid Jammers for the young folks.

But atmosphere means nothing without a quality experience in the chair, and Bodean’s has just that. Each stylist is experienced in what they do and they take great pride in giving

Lucian Nelson named Trussville Rotary’s Student of the Month

From Tribune staff reports TRUSSVILLE, Ala. – Hewitt-Trussville High School sophomore Lucian Nelson was recognized as the Trussville Rotary Daybreak Club’s Student of the Month for March.

Nelson currently serves as a junior board member for the Troy Ellis Foundation and leads a bible study for 7th grade boys at First Baptist Church Trussville.

He is a member of the National Honor Society, is on the varsity football team, and served for three years on the Student Council.

Nelson’s honors include the Cameron Smith Award for Outstanding Character and being recognized as an all-academic team member for maintaining a 4.0 GPA.

the customer the best experience possible.

“Anyone we hire, we don’t talk about certain things and we have no drama,” said Weimar. “It has worked really well. If you can keep everyone on the same page, it will work. This has been the case here. If they don’t have high stress from corporate or something like that, they do well. I try to make it the easiest place for them to work. We have very good people who do quality work for an affordable price. One thing we do is we schedule out longer. Most of the time, you get 15-20 minutes scheduled for a cut, but we allow more time. We want you to leave there looking good.”

Bodean’s, a 2024 Trussville Tribune Reader’s Choice finalist and sponsor of Bodean’s Classic Cuts and Color Coaches Corner on Tribune Sports Live, has something for everyone, whether you are looking for a haircut, color, beard trim or even nose, eyebrow and ear waxing, they will do it.

You can find Bodean’s at 1423 Gadsden Highway, you can go to their website, www.bodeansclassiccuts. com to make an appointment, or you can call them at 205-508-3283. Perhaps the best way to get set up is via their mobile app. Just search Bodean’s in your app store and you can do anything you need from there.

“I would encourage the people in Trussville who haven’t already to give us a try,” said Weimar.

In his free time, he enjoys playing football, spending time with his friends and family, and serving his community.

His selection for Teacher of the Month is Lauren Diebert, his Spanish teacher.

Irondale

From front page

create safer communities.

“Our goal in hosting the summit was to convene mayors and top law enforcement officers and encourage everyone to look at the issues of crime and violence from a ‘brother’s keeper’ perspective,” Stewart said.

“Serving on the board of Crime Stoppers of Metro Alabama has really shown me that it’s going to take all of us working across the borders of our individual cities to create safer communities.”

Stewart serves as president of the Jefferson County Mayors Association, which comes with a seat on the Crime Stoppers Board of Directors, giving him a firsthand look at the impactful work they do.

During the summit, Mayor Randall Woodfin shared some of the strategies Birmingham is working on implementing and some of the ways surrounding cities can support their efforts.

Crime Stoppers of Metro Alabama also presented information on the resources they offer to help combat violent crime.

Also in attendance were District Attorney Danny Carr, Sheriff Mark Pettway, Commissioner Joe Knight, Commissioner Mike Bolin,

“Mrs. Diebert starts my mornings off in such a positive way that the rest of my day benefits. She is a dedicated teacher and a joyful person. She makes learning fun and cares about her students,” Nelson said.

“Mrs. Diebert really helped me to understand and to speak the Spanish language. She is very uplifting to me, as well as all of

Frank Barefield Jr., and mayors and police chiefs from more than a dozen cities in the metro area. Stewart also present-

ed Crime Stoppers with a $10,000 contribution from the City of Irondale to support the work they do in the region as well as with the Irondale Police Department.

Mayor Stewart presents a $10,000 check to Crime Stoppers of Metro Alabama. (City of Irondale)

Mayor Woodfin shares some of the strategies being used to combat crime in Birmingham. (City of Irondale)

Inside of Bodean’s. Credit: Johnny Sanders

her students. She values us all and makes us feel seen, heard and loved.”

The Don Haisten Student/Teacher of the Month program is sponsored by Full Moon BBQ in Trussville.

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

Coordinator Fran Aldridge, Brian Nelson, Lucian Nelson, Jennifer Nelson, and Rotary Club President Brad Wideman. (Trussville Rotary)

Leeds businesses awarded grants through new Main Street program

By Nathan Prewett, For the Tribune

LEEDS, Ala.

– Several local businesses have been awarded grants after Leeds Main Street implemented the new AL Spark program, an initiative by Main Street Alabama to help small businesses thrive.

“We are absolutely thrilled to introduce AL Spark, Igniting Main Street Alabama’s Small Businesses and Entrepreneurs,” said Main Street Alabama President and State Coordinator Mary Helmer Wirth.

“This vibrant new initiative is dedicated to igniting the potential of small businesses and entrepreneurs in Alabama. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Small Business Administration for the grant, which enables us to uplift small businesses in our designated cities and foster a vibrant local economy.”

With support from the

Small Business Administration or SBA, AL Spark helps through three programs, said a press release from Leeds Main Street. These are Livewire, Illuminate, and Bright Ideas. Livewire provides tools and training for business development while Illuminate grants marketing funds and Bright Ideas “encourages innovation through a dynamic business pitch competition, fostering creativity and collaboration among community members,” the release stated. These Leeds businesses were granted $1,000 after completing marketing courses: Stratford Real Estate Posh Salon, Spa, & Barbers • Millennial Bank Mum & Me Mercantile • LB Studios Photography • The Burrow Bookstore • Maq’s On Main Barbershop • Kut/Ups Hair and Nail

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4 Pinson Valley High School students injured in crash

From Tribune staff reports

PINSON, Ala. – Four

Pinson Valley High School students were injured last Thursday after their truck crashed into a tree near the school.

The single-vehicle crash occurred around 3:15 p.m. on Tapawingo Road near Highway 75.

Two of the four students had to be extricated from the truck by first responders, and they were all taken to the UAB Hospital Trauma Center.

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students injured, 16-year-old Victor Guerrero Marchena, has launched a GoFundMe to help pay for his medical bills.

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LEEDS, Ala. – The Leeds Police Department took a person into custody after he reportedly drove onto an elementary school playground where 81 students were present.

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LPD Chief Paul Irwin said in a statement released Wednesday night. “This vehicle then entered the walking track and playground area, where eighty-one (81) students were located. The SRO quickly requested additional units to respond and attempt-

“Our thoughts and prayers are out to the family and the individuals that are in the hospital now,” Roberts said.

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“But we do want to encourage folks to be careful out there. And, you know, especially younger drivers, I want to encourage you guys that might be watching or hearing about this, please be careful.”

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Irwin said the vehicle continued recklessly traveling in this area, despite multiple commands to stop.

Multiple units responded to the scene and were eventually able to get the vehicle

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The driver, identified as Cody Derek Smith, 37, of Cullman, was taken into custody.

Smith is charged with 81 counts of reckless endangerment, driving under the influence of alcohol, criminal trespass second degree and disorderly conduct

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Smith is being held without bond pending a hearing before a judge.

“I am very proud of the actions of our School Resource Officer, Patrol Officers and Investigators,” Irwin said. “They responded immediately to this threat and eliminated it!”

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According to police, no students, staff or officers were injured.

Cody Derek Smith,

Man wielding hatchet in Pell City shot by police

From Tribune staff reports

PELL CITY, Ala. – A man armed with a hatchet was shot and killed by Pell City police at The Park on 23rd apartment complex on Wednesday after he was reportedly acting aggressive, according to law enforcement.

Police responded to the apartments at 5:50 p.m. and found the man “striking vehicles and threatening resi-

dents.”

Officers reportedly gave numerous commands to the man to put down the hatchet and to stop acting aggressively. According to law enforcement, the man refused to follow instructions and charged at police with the hatchet, leading to an officer discharging his firearm and striking the suspect.

Pell City Fire Department personnel immediately

rendered aid to the man and transported him to UAB St. Vincent’s St. Clair where he was later pronounced dead.

The man’s body has since been transported to the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences for an autopsy.

Pell City PD has requested the St. Clair County Sheriff’s Office to conduct an investigation into the officer involved shooting through a mutual aid partnership.

New arrests made in Hush Lounge mass shooting, murder of Birmingham firefighter

By Austin Franklin and AJ Holliday, CBS 42

–

BIRMINGHAM,

Ala.

On Thursday, interim Birmingham Police Chief Michael Pickett announced the arrests of two additional suspects in connection with the 2024 mass shooting outside of Hush Lounge that left four dead and 17 injured.

Additionally, Chief Pickett confirmed the arrest of a new suspect in the shooting death of Birmingham firefighter Jordan Melton.

Until Thursday, 22-yearold Damien McDaniel was the only suspect charged in either case.

In addition to McDaniel, 22-year-old Ny’Quan Lollar, and Crishawn Ja’mel McLemore-Bruce, 23, are each charged with capital murder and 17 counts of assault in the deadly shooting at Hush Lounge in Five Points South on September 21, 2024.

21-year-old Anitra Holloman, of Bessemer, 27-year-old Tahj Booker, 27, of Birmingham, Carlos McCain, of Birmingham, 26-year-old Roderick Lynn Patterson Jr, of Birmingham, were killed in the shooting. Lollar and McLemore-Bruce are being held without bond at the Jefferson County Jail. Eddie Jones, 47, was arrested for the murder of Birmingham firefighter Jordan Melton, who was gunned down at Station 9 in Norwood on July 12, 2023. Melton was pronounced dead from his injuries on July 17. Another firefighter, Jamal Jones, was injured in the shooting. Eddie Jones is charged with capital murder of a first responder and attempted murder. He is being held without bond at the Jefferson County Jail.

“I want to take this mo-

ment to thank and commend the men and women of the Birmingham Police Department who have been working very hard every day, very diligently, in their respective roles. Each officer, each detective, each crime analyst, intel analyst, and special operator, thank you for being locked in,” Pickett said.

The man initially charged in each case, Damien McDaniel, stands accused in the deaths of 14 people. Eight of the 14 killings are related to two separate mass shootings in Birmingham in 2024. The first mass shooting took place outside of a Birmingham nightclub on July 13 and left four people dead and 10 others wounded. Another man, Hatarius Woods, 27, was also charged with capital murder in connection with the July mass shooting.

BPD said that more arrests may be possible.

Center Point teen among 2 charged in East Birmingham robbery

From Tribune staff reports

BIRMINGHAM – The Birmingham Police Department has arrested two suspects in connection to a robbery and kidnapping that occurred in East Birmingham last Wednesday, March 19. According to police, the victim was robbed at gunpoint by two men at around

4:20 a.m.

The two men later reportedly kidnapped the victim and forced him to withdraw money from an ATM. That evening, officers were able to identify and locate the suspects in the Kingston community and took them into custody during a traffic stop, within 24 hours of the incident.

The suspects have been

identified as 19-year-old Keonte Richardson of Center Point and 22-year-old Justin Jenkins of Birmingham.

Richardson has been charged with first-degree robbery while Jenkins has been charged with first-degree robbery, first-degree kidnapping, and first-degree burglary. They are being held in the Jefferson County Jail without bond.

Woman dies after falling from 6th floor of BJCC parking deck

From Tribune staff reports

BIRMINGHAM, Ala.

– A woman died Monday night after she reportedly fell from the sixth floor

of the BJCC parking deck onto the sidewalk below, according to the Jefferson County Coroner’s Office.

The unidentified white

female was pronounced dead at 11:40 p.m. The Birmingham Police Department is investigating the circumstances surrounding her death.

Birmingham man charged with murder of family member

From Tribune staff reports

BIRMINGHAM, Ala.

– A Birmingham man has been charged with the murder of his cousin and the attempted murder of another family member, according to Birmingham police.

On Friday, March 21, police responded to a residence in the 3500 block of Hemlock Avenue SW on a report

of two people shot. When officers arrived, they found two adult males suffering from gunshot wounds.

Birmingham Fire & Rescue personnel transported both victims to UAB Hospital with life-threatening injuries. Soon after arriving at the hospital, one of the victims, 36-year-old Curtis Holt, Jr., was pronounced dead.

BPD identified the suspect, 41-year-old Donald Holt, and arrested him in West Birmingham within two hours of the shooting. According to BPD, the preliminary investigation suggests that Holt shot both victims during a domestic incident and fled the scene. He is being held in the Jefferson County Jail without bond.

By Joe Hobby, Tribune Columnist

I pulled a couple of boxes of photos down from my closet the other day. These photographs were mostly black and white relics made with a camera and film that was dropped off at the drug store for developing. How do I explain a negative to a Gen Z’er?

As I went through these old pictures, I couldn’t help but think that I looked different – in a good way. Maybe the styling gel in my hair made me look cool. And it’s obvious that what I wore was heavily influenced by GQ magazine. For example, the color of my belt had to match my loafers. My jeans were creased and I tucked in my shirttail. The dress shirts had to be laundered and starched. Well, that limo left the curb several years ago, and quite honestly, I don’t care. Now I’ll put on jeans right out of the dryer. I buy permanent press shirts. If my belt doesn’t match my

My Life As A Hobby: No Shirt, No Shoes, ¡No Filter!

shoes, no big deal, I’ll just pull my shirttail out. This is one benefit of aging that no one talks about – you develop an I don’t care attitude about lots of things. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not walking around in Bermuda shorts and wearing black socks with sandals. Not yet, anyway. But as we get older, function replaces form, and that’s OK with me. For example, if you look in my closet, you’ll find one pair of lace up dress shoes that I only wear to funerals and weddings. However, I do have three pair of New Balance sneakers. I’m aware that some people call them old man shoes; however, New Balance is the brand the podiatrist recommended because my orthotics properly fit in them. As a result, my plantar fasciitis is much better. Do you see? Function over form. It’s kinda nice to have reached that point in your life.

Another benefit of getting older is that your filter vanishes. Most seniors will

tell it like it is to anyone that will listen. Furthermore, almost everyone gives you a Run-Your-Mouth-For-FreeCard.

Most anything you say, no matter how inappropriate, is excused because of age. We have one such woman in our church, Do-

ris, a spry 97-year-old. One of her favorite sayings is, “If you don’t want the truth, don’t ask me.” Of course, it’s the truth as she sees it. Nothing is off limits for Doris – politics, religion, or even sex. Once, I was marveling about how good she looked for her age, she said, “Yeah, but I get up every morning, eyeball the mirror before I put on my make up and say, ‘My Lord, woman you look like crap.”

(That’s not exactly what she said, but there may be kids reading this article). Doris’ filter is long gone, and she doesn’t give a whit. Doris reminds me of my mother, who had no filter either. One of her worst gaffes occurred when my wife and I took her to the hospital for an outpatient surgical procedure. The three of us arrived bleary-eyed at 5 AM, and as we sat in the waiting room half asleep, I noticed a woman who walked in, registered, and sat down across from us. In a few moments someone else shuffled

through the automatic door. At first, I mistook him for a homeless person. He was unshaven and had a shock of gray hair that hadn’t seen a comb. It reminded me of a cartoon character who had stuck his finger in an electric socket. His look was completed with a pair of pajama bottoms, house shoes, and an old beat up coat. Mom took one look at him, then turned to us and said loudly (because she wasn’t wearing her hearing aids), “How’d you like to wake up to that every morning?”

Everyone in the waiting room looked up and stared at us Then to my horror, the subject of Mom’s commentary walked past us and sat down beside the lady who just checked in. Obviously, he was her husband. Of course, Mother was oblivious to the sequence of events because she’s filterless. On the other hand, we were humiliated. But I will admit, that was one way to get us into the exam room quickly.

ICHBW: As a Single Parent Who is Dating, Can You Really Have It All?

I Couldn’t Help But Wonder…

By Dixie Dreamer

They say love conquers all, but does it conquer homework, PTA meetings, and soccer practice? I’ll admit it—dating when you have kids is a whole new battlefield. You’re not just swiping through profiles anymore; you’re running relationship candidates through a rigorous compatibility test that could rival NASA’s astronaut selection process. “Do they have a steady job? Do they like kids? More importantly, can they assemble IKEA furniture without cursing every piece of wood?” It’s dating…but with a parental twist.

When I first dipped my toes back into the dating pool after having kids, I thought, “How hard could this be? I’ll just squeeze in a dinner date after the kids are in bed.” Spoiler alert: the universe laughed in my face. By the time date night rolled around, I was usually so exhausted from dodging teenage attitudes and preparing dinner that the idea of putting on heels felt like climbing Mount Everest. And guess what? On the rare occasion I did make it out the door, I’d spend half the date checking my texts

to make sure my teenagers hadn’t burnt the house down.

But here’s the thing. Love doesn’t just knock politely on your door when it’s convenient. And if it does, your child probably yells, “Mom! Someone’s at the door!” before flinging it open while you’re still in sweatpants. Dating with children isn’t impossible, but it does require a little strategy, a lot of patience, and the occasional glass of wine.

Navigating the Chaos First off, managing your time is key. I learned the hard way that trying to “squeeze in” romance usually results in something (or someone) being shortchanged. For me, it was a disastrous attempt to multitask a FaceTime call while simultaneously answering the “Mom! Where are you?” shouts from my teenager. My suitor was charming enough to pretend that me hiding in my closet to hold an uninterrupted conversation was endearing, but I knew I needed to get serious

about setting boundaries. My advice? Separate your “me time” from your “mom time.” There’s no shame in scheduling a date night— or even telling the kids, “Mom’s got plans tonight!” Trust me, they’ll survive a few hours without you.

Another critical lesson? The importance of being upfront. I don’t mean walking into a first date and saying, “Hi, I’m Dixie, and my teenagers like to play pull my finger games,” but there’s no need to tiptoe around the fact that you’re a parent. If they can’t handle that truth, they’re not worth a second drink. Or even a second coffee. Besides, your kids are a huge part of your life, and someone who’s dating you has to understand that the two-for-one deal includes homework and snack negotiations.

The Balancing Act

Now, let’s talk about guilt. Oh, the guilt. It creeps up whenever you’re laughing at some cute text or enjoying a meal that doesn’t involve cutting someone else’s chicken nuggets.

“Shouldn’t I be home helping with homework? What if they miss me? Am I being selfish?” Here’s the honest answer I learned through trial, error, and a few teary phone calls to my best friend Sasha—taking time

for yourself is not selfish, it’s survival. Moms are not robots. You can’t pour from an empty cup, and you don’t need to “power through” loneliness because society loves to praise women who put their needs dead last. You’re setting an example for your kids, too. Do you want them to grow up thinking love and joy are only for people without responsibilities? You wouldn’t. Show them that it’s okay to celebrate yourself and your happiness.

Tips for Dating with Kids

1. Find Your Village. Whether it’s a supportive co-parent, a reliable babysitter, or your very accommodating sister who owes you a favor—build a network of people who can hold down the fort when you need a night out.

2. Set Realistic Expectations. Your dating landscape may not include spontaneous weekends in Paris, and that’s okay. Sometimes a laugh over margaritas at your neighborhood bar can feel just as magical.

3. Introduce with Care. You don’t need to parade every date in front of the kids. Wait until you’re sure about someone before making introductions, and even then, ease into it. Kids and new relationships need time to adjust.

4. Laugh Through the Chaos. Like the time my son reenacted my date’s awkward laugh the next morning, right at the breakfast table. It’s all part of the story you’ll laugh about later.

5. Communicate Honestly. Be clear about your challenges and your time constraints. If someone real-

ly likes you, they’ll accommodate the occasional rescheduling due to a surprise 102-degree fever. You. Can. Do. This. Bottom line? Yes, dating with kids is harder than dating without them, but it can also be more rewarding. When you find someone who understands your morning mug has “Mom Fuel” printed on it for a reason, who knows your heart has a little extra room because of your kids, and who embraces the beautiful mess of your life—it makes every late-night babysitter hunt worth it. And remember, you’re not alone in this wildly unpredictable balancing act of love and parenthood. I want to hear your stories—the good, the bad, and the hilariously awkward. Email me at Columnist@ICHBWColumn.com and share how you’re managing the ultimate juggling act of dating with kids. Who knows? Your story might just inspire someone else to keep going. After all, love might not be easy to find, but it’s always worth the effort— even if that effort involves a glitter-covered apology after forgetting a show-andtell project. Keep your head up, laugh a little, and stay fabulous!

XOXO

Joe Hobby, Tribune Columnist

o bitua R y

Li nda nes

Margaret Lee

8— may 30,2024

Parker, Jr., Jake (Christine) Parker, Maggie Parker, Clint Wooten; eight great-grandchildren; daughter-in-law, Cindy Parker.

Visitation was on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home from 11:00 am until 12:00 pm. There was a Chapel Service at the funeral home at 12:00 pm. Burial followed at Jefferson Memorial Gardens in Trussville, AL.

Thomas Riley Kendrick

march 7, 1934 — march 13, 2025

Thomas Riley Kendrick was born March 7, 1934, in Corrigan, Texas to Matt and Mamie Kendrick

yonMay 30, 2024 in Encinitas, Calth cancer.She wasbornonJuly27, a, Lindawas thebeloved thirdof dMedaNorman. Shewas preceded isters BarbaraCooley andMerlene eveNorman. Linda leaves behind ludinghersix brothers andsisters: ,Penny Laming ,Jeanette Leap,Tim salsosur vivedbyher cherished nd JasonMones (Nicole),andher gr n, ,Joseph, andLee RentzIV. Linda’s childrenwereher prideand joy. Sheloved travelinganddoingwater excursions with her daughter,Arlene, whetheritwas watchingdolphins or taking aboattoCoronado. With herson,Jason, sheshareda specialbondthrough theirdeepand meaningful conversations.Linda’s career in nursing wasmarkedbydedication andexcellence. Shethrived in nursing andlater in home healthcare.Her work in hyperbaric medicinebeganinLongBeach andeventuallyledher to Birmingham, Alabama, wheresheplayed akey role in startinghyperbaricmedicinethere. Linda’s career progressedtosurgery intensivecare, whereshe often iousdepartments. After movingback to Californiain1997, shefou healthcare,particularly in workingwithpeoplewithdementia.She teractionswithher clientsand theirfamilies, always goingout of he andwell-being.

Linda will be remembered forher hardworkingand caringnature.She thepeopleshe loved, leavinga lasting impact on everyone whohad Amemorialser vice will beheldin herhonoron herbirthday, July 27 Homesand GardensinTrussville,Alabama.

Upon graduating from Corrigan High School in 1952, Tom enlisted in the United States Army. Tom served in the U.S. Army from August 18,1954 –August 1, 1956. While serving in Germany, Tom met and married his wife, Elfie, spring of 1951. They were married for 49 1/2 years. Tom began working for Chicago Bridge and Iron in 1964 and lived in Argentina, Venezuela, and in various parts of the United States and was employed there until he retired in 1994. Tom moved to Trussville in 1982 and resided there until his death on March 13, 2025. Tom was an active member of Miracle Hill and enjoyed fishing, tinkering with his tools and various things in the garage, but his favorite thing was spending time with his loved one’s family, and friends. Tom was preceded in death by his parents (Matt and Mamie Kendrick), two brothers three sisters, and two grandsons. He is survived by his children, Sylvia and (Kenny), Thomas and (Gennia), Marcus and (Lanie), as well as six grandchildren three great grandchildren, and his special friend Flora Nash “Lady Friend Flo”, and a host of nieces and nephews.

Linda Brown Brand

4—

february 23, 1948 — march 11, 2025

Northport,AL, 30,1944, in Nashville, July 13,2024, in deathbyhis dMae Coss; and aw,James and th by hiswife, oss(wife)Kris; (husband) Riley an Reynolds (husband) Jerr yofArdmore,TN; brother, Randy Coss (wife) LindaofAllenPark, MI;brother-inlaw, Ronnie Barker (wife) PattiofBirmingham AL:sister-in-law ConniePendley (husband) Ronnie, of Rowland, NC;manyniecesandnephews.

Bo nni eS pe ar man

march 3, 1943— july 13,2024

Visitation was on March 19, 2025, from 9:00 am until 10:00 am at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home. There was a Chapel service at 10:00 am at the funeral home. Burial followed at Jefferson Memorial Gardens in Trussville.

Carolyn T. Stewart

BonnieE.Spearman, age81, passedawayonJuly13,2024. She wasprecededindeath by herhusband CharlesSpearman;parents,Charles andMarie Gordon,Sr.;brother,Charles Gordon, Jr.; niece, Terri AnnBusk. Sheissur vivedbyher daughter,Regenia (Chip) Keith; twosons, CharlesMcAllisterand Eric (Cathy)Jennings;sister,SandraHollis; nieces,Tammy Gulledgeand Tina (Russell) Zientek; special friend, NolenShivers andnumerousgrandchildrenand other loving family members.

march 16, 1942 — march 13, 2025

lG os s

8— july 19,2024

eage of 76 died at home in Pinson lovedher family more than she on forlife. Sheloved thelordwith al ahairdresserand latermoved into workingretail.

Linda Gail Brown Brand, age 77, passed peacefully at home after a courageously fought battle with cancer. Linda was born at home in Cropwell, Alabama on February 23, 1948 to Eugene Sumpter Brown and Mary Hazel Nixon Brown. Linda was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Charles Wayne Brand and sister, Wanda Jean Martin. She is survived by her brother, Gary Eugene Brown (Suellen deceased), Hazel Lavonne Brown, Ricky Dean Brown (Angie) and Samuel Wade Brown (Patsy); her children, Lisa Bagley (Rusty), Chuck Brand (Kelley Jo) and Debbie Wolfe (Mark); her grandchildren, Kayla Blankenship (Jonathan), Brittany Otts, Andrew Wolfe (Natalie), Charley Ann Brand and Sophia Bagley; her great grandchildren, Lennon Wolfe, Mason Blankenship, Stevie Grace

Jerr ywas aser vant of Godand man. He wasa faithful member of theNorthport Church of Christ.Heser vedthe Mountain Brook PoliceDepartmentasa patrolman, warrantofficer, andthenretiredasa detective after 27 yearsofser vice.Hewasan outdoorsman,asanavid hunter andfisherman, whowas happytotakeyou in thewoodsoronthe lake anytime.Jerry lovedcoachinglittleleague andmorethanany thingheloved beingwithfamily andfriends. We will carr yhim in ourheartsforever.

Funeralser viceswereheldatJeffersonMemorialFuneralHomeand GardensinTrussville, AL ,onFriday, July 19,2024. Theser vice wasofficiatedbyhis brother-in-law,Jerry Reynolds. Apolicehonorsgraveside servicefollowed. Hispallbearers were:Grayson Coss, Ryan Barker, Brett Barker,Matt Pendley,Tim Reynolds,and Mike Reynolds.

to her Heavenly Father and

of

Let all that you do be done in love.

1 Corinthians 16:14

David Brown

Ja ck ie Dewa yne “Way ne ”F re de ri ck

july 2, 1969— july 14,2024

august 3, 1955 — march 11, 2025

David was born August 3, 1955, in Birmingham, Alabama to John and Martha Brown.

Funeral Services for Mrs. Carolyn T. Stewart, age 82 of Odenville, were held on Thursday, March 20, 2025 at 12:00 P.M. at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home. Burial followed at Taylor Memorial Methodist Church Cemetery.

Mrs. Stewart passed away on Thursday, March 13, 2025 at Kirkwood by the River Retirement Community. Born in Ashland, she was raised in Clay County and graduated from Clay County High school. She attended Jacksonville State University where she received her Bachelors in Secondary Education and the University of Alabama Birmingham where she obtained her Master’s Degree in Secondary Education. Mrs. Stewart was a teacher at Chalkville Elementary school for 20 years. She was an avid Auburn fan and loved going to football games. Mrs. Stewart also enjoyed teaching and camping.

She is survived by her son, John Wade Stewart (Lynn), her most precious grandson, Conner Stewart, her siblings, Max Tomlin and Pat Tomlin McArthur, a host of nieces, nephews, extended and her teacher family.

David was a resident of Robuck Plaza and Trussville, Alabama where he had many friends and neighbors. He was a graduate of Hewitt Trussville High School. He enjoyed coaching Trussville

Boys Baseball and Trussville Girls Softball.

David loved our Lord and Savior, his family, friends and neighbors.. He had a passion for all Alabama sports especially football and softball.

David is preceded by his father, John Brown, mother, Martha Floyd Brown, brothers, Michael and Randy Brown.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Johnny Mac Stewart and her parents, Eric and Inez Tomlin.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association (https:// donorservices.alz.org) or the charity of your choice in her honor.

Visitation was held on Wednesday, March 19, 2025 from 5:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home and until service time at 12:00 P.M. on Thursday.

Betty is preceded in deathbySon –EarlRobertGoss, Father – Herschel Brown, Mother –Saloma(Chip)Brown,Sisters–SueChamblee, CharoletteJones,Glenda Faye Brown, Patricia Brown, Brothers –Donaldand JamesBrown. Sheissur vivedbyHusband of 54 yearsEarlRansomGoss. Sons Edward RayGossand TimLovell. Friday nightgirlAngelaLewis.One granddaughter Marisa LyndseyGoss. Alongwitha host of nieces,nephews,family andfriends. Herfuneralser viceswereheldatJeffersonMemorialinTrussville on TuesdayJuly23,2024.

Jackie Dewayne“ 2nd, 1969 in Hami peacefully July 14,2024 Birmingham,Ala ness. He waspre terJackFrederick Ruth Fredericka He is survived by mother Sherri Fred (Amy), Eric Freder andsisters Sabrin (Julio), DianePha ell. Wayneisalsos nephews andextendedfamily members. Waynewas agradua He wasa furniturebuilder fornumerousyears.Duringt awards forhis perfectattendance over hislife. Waynewasan wasa particularfan of Hulk Hogan. He hada deep love forhis family making sure he checked in on ever yone often.

He is survived by loving wife, Katie Brown, children, Jamie Brown, Ashli Denton (Carl), Lacey Schepman (Jared), Logan Brown, Gil Roberts III. Grandchildren Elle Brown, Emily, Addison and Thomas Denton, Jacob and Noah Schepman, Carlie Taylor, and Beau Roberts. Many cousins, nieces and extended family.

He was loved by many who each have that special memory of him to keep in their hearts.

To ourbrother Wayne, your laughter,loveand kindness will be greatlymissedbutnever forgotten.Wecelebrate thestrengthanddetermination youshowedthroughoutyourlife. Though ourheartsare heav ywithgrief,wefind comfortinthe memories we shared.Rest peacefully,dearbrother.Yourbattlesare over but youwill foreverliveoninourhearts.The funeralwas held at UnionHillFreewill Baptist Church in Hackleburg, AlabamaonTuesday

Raymond Neal Coker

AskEddie

How do I Select a Funeral Home?

One of the first decisions a family makes upon a loved one’s passing is which funeral home to use. Not all funeral homes offer the same services or prices, so it’s good to compare and find what works best for your needs.

Consider any religious affiliations and whether the funeral home works with specific cemeteries or only their own. If your loved one is being cremated, does the funeral home offer a crematory, or do they outsource this service?

Ask for a general price list so that you can compare your options. Funeral homes are required to provide pricing. Funerals can range greatly in cost depending on what you want included, so have a budget in mind.

august 19, 1939 — march 14, 2025

Raymond Neal Coker (Papa), age 85 was born on August 19, 1939 and died peacefully in his sleep on March 14, 2025. He was a devoted husband to his wife Judy of 64 years. He was also a loving father, grandfather and great grandfather. He was a longtime active member of First Baptist Church of Chalkville. He took retirement from Southern Research Institute after 33 years and Battelle after 10 years. He also served on the Trussville City Council in the early

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c a L enda R

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.

Trussville Public Library

● Justice Not Favor: Understanding Women’s Suffrage in Alabama: Friday, March 28 at 2 p.m. - Join us for a presentation from Alex Colvin about Alabama’s suffragettes

● LRN2PLAY: Monday, March 31 at 4 p.m. - Tabletop RPG and gaming club where we test out new and different RPG systems

● American Girl Club: Monday, March 31 at 5

p.m. - Read the book “Meet Rebecca” then join us as we discuss Rebecca (1914). Participants will also play a themed game and make a craft together

● Spotting and Avoiding Scams: Tuesday, April 1 at 4 p.m. - Is your tween accessing the internet more regularly for school and fun? Join us as we learn the practical steps to spot and avoid phishing scams and keep personal information safe

● Novel & Short Story

Writing Group: Tuesday, April 1 at 6 p.m. - Writing and critique meet-up for writers

● Lunch and Learn: Wednesday, April 2 at 11 a.m. - 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

● Video Games (Teen): Wednesday, April 2 at 4 p.m. - Free play video game program for teens

● Children’s Storytime: Thursday, April 3 at 9:30 and 10:30 a.m. - Join Ms. Alicia for stories, songs, bubble time, and lots of fun

● Pokemon Club: Thursday, April 3 at 4 p.m.

- Bring your friends for an hour to play the card game, make a craft, and watch a classic episode in the library auditorium

● Meet and Greet with the Gee’s Bend Quilters: Thursday, April 3 at 6 p.m.

- Come meet Mary Ann and China Pettway from Boykin, Alabama and hear their inspirational stories. They will have quilts and other items for purchase

Pinson Public Library

● Storytime for Growin’ Beans with Ms. Allison: Friday, March 28 at 10 a.m. - Our theme is Open & Closed. We’ll read book, have fun, do a craft, and have a snack

● Anime & Unwind: Friday, March 28 at 6 p.m.

- It’s our anime club for adults! Enjoy Asian snacks & hang out with fellow anime enthusiasts

● Alien Invasion: Saturday, March 29 at 1 p.m. - Enjoy a day filled with intergalactic snacks, alien-inspired crafts, & fun for all humans and extraterrestrials

● BINGO Night: Monday, March 31 at 5 p.m. - We’re playing classic Bingo, win fun prizes and enjoy light refreshments

● Tech Tuesdays: Tuesday, April 1 at 10 a.m. - Need help with your tablet, smartphone, or computer? Drop by the library for helpful tech tips with Mr. Keith

● Geek Guild: Tuesday, April 1 at 4:30 p.m.We’re playing Dungeons & Dragons! Delve into the Forgotten Realm in this fantasy role-playing game

● TIny Tumblers: Wednesday, April 2 at 11 a.m.Join us for a fun-filled event designed for your little ones! They’ll enjoy exploring gym mats, climbing structures, and even get moving with dance activities

● Teen Advisory Board Meeting: Thursday, April 3 at 6 p.m. - Interested in volunteering at the library? Join our Teen Advisory Board

Huskies continue to show muscle on the diamond

By Johnny Sanders, Sports Editor

BRADENTON, FL

– The

top-ranked Hewitt-Trussville Huskies headed into spring break with a 20-0 record with a ninth-place national ranking as they participated in the IMG Academy Spring Tournament in Bradenton, Florida.

Heading into the tournament, the Huskies reeled off wins over teams like Mountain Brook, Hillcrest,

LaGrange (GA), and Central on their way to a perfect 20-0 record.

With a national top ten ranking in tow, the Huskies headed south to take on some stiff competition. In game one on Monday, Hewitt took on Western High School out of Davie, Florida.

Steele Hall led the Huskies to victory in game one, driving in four runs on a sixth-inning triple that got the win for his team. Cale McIntosh got the scoring

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started in the first on a triple that scored the opening run of the game.

Christian Helmers opened the game, giving up seven hits and five runs. Rylan Clark relieved Helmers, pitching a scoreless inning in the sixth to pick up the win for the Huskies, allowing a hit and striking out one while walking no batters.

Game two was Tuesday against the hosts, IMG Academy Ascenders. The Huskies came up short

against the home team in this one, picking up their first loss of the season.

IMG started the scoring off with a pop fly that resulted in a single run in the bottom of the second. After two scoreless innings, the Husky bats woke up some as Koal Duckett hit a single that brought home Helmers and Durden to make it 2-1.

The Ascenders would hold the Huskies at bay for the remainder of the game

while grabbing four runs in the bottom of the fifth to seal the 5-2 victory.

Hewitt falls to 21-1 on the season after the loss to the eight-ranked Ascenders as they prepare to head into area play over the course of the next nine games, starting next Monday at home against Vestavia.

The Rebels are sitting at 14-4 on the season.

“Obviously, we have had a great start to the sea-

son,” said Hewitt coach Jeff Mauldin. “Starting the season with a school record 21-game winning streak and our program being recognized by MaxPreps with a ninth national ranking. We have had so many players on our team play at a high level and step up in big situations so far this season. Our players have been a joy to coach. Our coaching staff is lucky to have a front row seat every day to watch them play.”

Hewitt-Trussville Huskies after their win over Western at the IMG Academy Spring Tournament. Credit: Hewitt Baseball

Supercross flies high in Birmingham

By John Goolsby, Racing Editor

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. –

The Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship resumed after a two-week break, with Chase Sexton of Red Bull KTM Factory Racing taking the victory inside Protective Stadium.

Sexton put in an impressive performance in Birmingham, finishing 1st, 1st, and 2nd in the season’s third and final Triple Crown event to secure the night’s overall win in the 450SX Class.

Sexton reflected on the challenges of the Triple Crown format after taking the win.

“Triple Crowns are tough because even if you win the first two races, just like what happened to RJ [Hampshire in the 250SX Class], something can go wrong in the first turn,” Sexton said. “I rode pretty solid. I wasn’t doing the [triple jump] in the last race, just being a little conservative. It was a good race, Coop rode good, and I’m stoked to get that monkey off my back, get another win, and finally get this season going in the right direction.”

Sexton is optimistic about the remainder of the season.

“This is my favorite part of the season, these last seven or eight rounds,” he said. “It seems like it’s where I really shine.”

Despite hip pain from a qualifying crash, Malcolm Stewart from Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing finished strong with race results of 3rd, 2nd, and 3rd to earn a podium finish.

“I just made a mistake in practice and caught Justin Hill’s front wheel [in midair]. I hit my hip pretty good,” Stewart said. “The good news is I’ve got a solid group with my team. They just said, ‘Just go out there and give it everything

you’ve got.’” Stewart credited his medical support for getting him race-ready. “Huge shoutout to Doctor G for getting me back in [shape] to go out there and do these three races,” he said. “It’s awesome, and I’m so blessed to get back up here [on the podium]. Yeah, baby, maybe I’ve earned a little bit of fishing money now!”

Aaron Plessinger, the night’s third-place finisher from Red Bull KTM Factory Racing, led several laps and secured his second podium of the season, with

finishes of 2nd, 3rd, and 5th.

“I just feel like I’m on a roll, like I’ve found another gear, found a good groove,” Plessinger said. “The boys at the practice track are keeping me on my toes. The Baker’s Factory [Training Facility] is a riot right now—we’re going off. Aldon’s keeping us in shape.”

Despite falling short of the win, he remained positive about his night.

“It was just a good night—good starts, good riding. I led a lot of laps and just couldn’t seal the deal, but we’re up on the podium,” he said. “All these fans

out here in Alabama were insane. We’re going to keep it up and hopefully podium the season out.”

Points leader Cooper Webb took the third race win.

Nate Thrasher secured the overall win in the 250 Class with finishes of 3-3-2.

“I really felt coming into this season that this was going to be my year,” he said. “Tampa went okay—I ended up crashing on the first lap. But we just kept fighting every round. I just knew that I’m tough enough to be out there.”

After finally getting in

more training time, he’s optimistic about the races ahead.

“This week, I was finally able to do two days [of practice] before coming to this race, and those two days were great,” he said. “I’m super excited and just ready to get the ball rolling. We’re not out of [the championship] yet!”

RJ Hampshire looked promising after finishing 1-2 in the first two races, but an early incident in the third race hindered his chances for the win. A first-turn incident slowed and dropped him outside the top 15, but he rallied to finish fifth.

Hampshire acknowledged struggling with his intensity during the Triple Crown event but stayed focused on the championship battle.

“You could tell, even in the first two races, I just didn’t have the spark,” Hampshire said. “I felt good in practice and then was just flat. I don’t know if it’s things catching up to me or what, but I just didn’t have that intensity.”

A poor start in the final race cost him a shot at the overall win.

“I butchered the start in my last race,” he said. “My starts were saving me [in Races 1 and 2].”

Despite the setback, Hampshire remains optimis-

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tic about the next round.

“We’re still in this thing and looking forward to Boston in a couple of weeks [for the next 250SX East race],” he said.

Tom Vialle of Red Bull KTM Factory Racing, the points leader, secured a podium finish with results of 2nd, 5th and 3rd at the event, extending his championship lead after Max Anstie of Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing couldn’t compete due to a crash in qualifying.

Vialle was relieved to make it through the Triple Crown event but left Birmingham wanting more after missing out on the overall win.

“I’m happy to survive that Triple Crown. It’s always a pretty sketchy race,” Vialle said. “In the second moto, I finished fifth. I made a lot of mistakes and lost some ground, and that might have put me out for the overall tonight.” Vialle remains focused on securing a victory over the next few rounds.

“I want that win really bad,” he said. “I’m working for it, and hopefully in the next few races, I can do it.”

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Chase Sexton leads the 450SX pack. Credit: Feld Entertainment

Chase Sexton took the overall win in 450SX. Credit: Feld Entertainment Cooper Webb takes the win in the final 450SX race of the night. Credit: Feld Entertainment

Stallions looking for fourth straight title

2025 roster:

C al en da r

Local Meetings

●Trussville City Council Meetings:2nd and 4thTuesday of eachmonthat6 p.m., CityCouncil Annex

●Trussville BoardofEducation Meetings:3rd Mon-

storytimeinthe library auditorium withstories,songs, bubbletime, andlotsoffun!

●Yarn Manglers: Thursday July 25 at 2p.m.- Knitters and crocheters, join us for fellowshipand creativity!

Bicentennial Park:Thursday July 25 at 4p.m.- It’stimeto saygoodbyetoanother wonderfulSummerReading Program!Enjoy free access to theSplashPad, crafts,food trucks,& so much more!

ings:1st and 3rdMonday of eachmonthat6 p.m.

Holtz said. “Unfortunately, we can’t keep them all. We had to make some hard decisions, but we like our football team and are excited to get to work for the first game against D.C.”

Cain, Marlon Williams and Amari Rodgers returning.

The trio combined for 73 receptions, 944 yards and nine touchdowns last season.

Quarterback Alex McGough, who spent two years with the Green Bay Packers in the NFL, will compete with returning quarterback Matt Corral for the starting job. Former Philadelphia Stars and Memphis Showboats quarterback Case Cookus was added to the roster following the departure of J’Mar Smith.

The Stallions are deep at wide receiver, with Deon

●Moody City Council Meetings:2nd and 4thMonday of eachmonthat6 p.m.

By John Goolsby, Prep and Motorsport Editor

Trussville Public Library

BIRMINGHAM, Ala.

●SummertimeStories: Thursday,July25at9:30 and 10:30 a.m. -JoinMs. Alicia fora summer-themed

— The Birmingham Stallions, seeking a fourth consecutive spring football championship under head

coach Skip Holtz, finalized their roster at 50 players last week. The Stallions kick off the 2025 season on Sunday, March 30, against the D.C. Defenders at Audi Field in Washington, D.C.

Holtz, 26-4 over the last three seasons, will see almost 60% of last year’s team return. “It has been a great camp, and we had some really difficult decisions to make to get us here,”

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Birmingham also returns its top three running backs from a season ago: CJ Marable, Ricky Person Jr. and Larry Rountree III. They combined for more than 1,100 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns in 2024.

At tight end, Jace Sternberger and Jordan Thomas return, along with La’Michael Pettway, who previously played for the Stallions in 2022 and 2023.

Veteran linebacker DeMarquis Gates returns, and the addition of Tae Crowder and Chapelle Russell strengthens the linebacker corps.

Former Missouri kicker Harrison Mevis looks to continue the Stallions’ success at the position. Ryan Langan returns as the long snapper, and Colby Wadman is back as the punter.

The Stallions’ home opener in Protective Stadium is scheduled for Friday, April 11.

Defensively, the Stallions return 11 players from last season, including tackle leader Kyahva Tezino, sack leader Carlos Davis and interception leader A.J. Thomas.

Tribuneland Softball and Baseball Scores

Weeks of 3/19-3/25

SOFTBALL: Hewitt-Trussville (14-10; 0-0)

3/20: Huskies 9 Vestavia 16

3/25: Huskies 11 Rehobeth 1

3/25: Huskies 15 Olentangy Berlin 0

3/25: Huskies 8 Vernon Hills 2

Clay-Chalkville (8-3; 0-0)

3/20: Cougars 18 Center Point 3

Shades Valley (5-1; 0-0)

Pinson Valley (1-6;0-0))

3/19: Indians 3 Leeds 18

Moody (17-6; 2-0)

3/20: Blue Devils 8 Leeds 0

Leeds (8-11-1; 3-1)

3/19: Greenwave 18 Pinson 3

3/20: Greenwave 0 Moody 8

Springville (23-3; 3-0)

3/19: Tigers 2 Spain Park 1

3/21: Tigers 6 Ider 1

3/21: Tigers 15 Cleveland 0

3/22: Tigers 15 Sylvania 1

3/22: Tigers 10 Pisgah 1

BASEBALL: Hewitt-Trussville (21-1; 0-0)

3/20: Huskies 6 Prattville 1

3/20: Huskies 9 Prattville 2

3/21: Huskies 15 Southside 2

3/24: Huskies 7 Western (FL) 5

3/25: Huskies 2 IMG (FL) 5

Clay-Chalkville (5-11; 0-0)

3/20: Cougars 0 Gardendale 12

3/20: Cougars 5 Gardendale 11

3/22: Cougars 8 Shades Valley 3

Shades Valley (2-15; 0-0)

3/19: Mounties 3 Pell City 19

3/19: Mounties 4 Pell City 17

3/21: Mounties 3 Pleasant Grove 2

3/22: Mounties 3 ClayChalkville 8

Pinson Valley (7-13; 0-0)

3/20: Indians 16 Paul Bryant 1 3/21: Indians 4 Brookwood 10 3/22: Indians 5 Parker 6 3/25: Indians 6 Dothan 5 3/25: Indians 11

Jake Conner – Springville Tigers Baseball

Skip Holtz. Credit: Getty/UFL