JEFFERSON COUNTY, Ala – The Jefferson County Commission met this week for its regular Pre-Commission and Commission meetings, during which it
Page 4
New Leeds administration sworn into offices
By Nathan Prewett, For the Tribune
New owners of Dobbs Ford celebrate first year of managing dealership
By Chris Basinger, News Editor
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. –
LEEDS – A new administration for the Leeds city government took office during a swearing-in ceremony held on Tuesday night.
Councilor Eric Turner was the sole member of the administration previously
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
After prolonged political lecture from Mayor Thomas, Springville Council approves pay raise for police
By Terry Schrimscher
Pinson council cancels garbage contract, discusses fire department contracts
By Nathan Prewett, For the Tribune
SPRINGVILLE, Ala. –
By Nathan Prewett, For the Tribune
By Chris Basinger, News Editor
The Springville City Council took a detour Monday night before it returned to unfinished business held over from the Feb. 17 meeting. After an extended work session and a short break, March 3 meeting began around 6:45 p.m.
PINSON – The new Pinson City Council administration met on Thursday night after being sworn in earlier this week where it was decided to not renew the contract that the city has with Advanced Disposal.
As the meeting got underway, the council approved the minutes from the last meeting in February.
The subject of the current garbage services provider has been a point of discontent with the public and the city council in past meetings. Finding other service providers and even forming a waste disposal department has been considered before.
The contract that the city has with Advanced Disposal is set to expire on April 30, 2026. The resolution passed on Thursday night effectively cancelled it and now allows for the city to send out requests for proposals for new providers.
focus on city business.
tended at the department’s request. The term of the sublease could also be extended.
The discussion was a first reading and no action was taken. The renewal and contract will be considered on Nov. 17.
afterward, Thomas said he just needed to air his frustrations 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 consent calendar for approval. That approach was denied.
The council also held first readings for five-year contracts for fire protection services from Palmerdale and the Center Point Fire District.
5
Many other cities in the Tribune coverage area approve non-controversial items with a single vote through a consent agenda, a procedural process used to reduce the need for discussion and lengthy meetings.
City Attorney Shane Black explained that providers will be able to submit proposals until early January that will be sealed until
Mayor Dave Thomas tioned for them to reconsider 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
they are opened and come back to the council for consideration.
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 business. No hands raised. Along the way, he said the council’s lack of leadership on salaries would be a burden on the city.
“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-
The resolution also allows the council to change the criteria of services such as the number of cans. Currently residents have two cans – one for yard waste and the other for household waste. The criteria can be adjusted so that only one can is needed for both, with additional cans being optional. Recycling services will not be provided, he said.
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.
“We’re certainly hoping that this reduces the rate for our citizens,” said Mayor Hoyt Sanders.
“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.
“I have gotten the question over the years: Well, why don’t we start our own fire department?” Sanders said. “In brief that would cost us double for six years and, oh what you think for a few trucks? Five, six, seven, eight million dollars (to do that). So, we are certainly better off contracting with our existing providers who have an extremely high ISO rating.”
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.
City of Irondale launches ‘Feed the Need’ Food Drive to fight hunger this holiday season
Human bones found by local dog are connected, coroner says From Tribune staff reports
From Tribune Staff Reports
IRONDALE, Ala. –
Foxhound Bee Company to bee-gin construction on new education center
Irondale appoints city positions in first meeting of new administration
By Terry Schrimscher
IRONDALE, Ala. – The Irondale City Council met for the first regular meeting of the month Tuesday night, Nov. 4 at City Hall. The posted agenda had a short consent agenda and no official new business.
By Chris Basinger, News Editor
In his report, Mayor James D. Stewart Jr. presented a check in the amount of $4,720 to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama. The funds were raised during the city’s cancer walk last month. In the consent agenda, the council also approved a service agreement with the Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama in the amount of $1,500. Funds for the agreement are $1,000 from the discretionary fund of Mayor Stewart and $500 from the discretionary fund of council member John London.
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.
ous term.
Speaking to The Tribune
The council discussed renewing a sublease and contract that the city has with the Palmerdale Fire District. Though it stands on property owned by the Jefferson County Board of Education it is leased by the city for 99 years. Black said that there is a proposed renewal where the area being subleased is ex-
Items from the February agenda were addressed individually. The purchase
During reports from department heads Palmerdale Fire District Chief Taylor Hancock delivered an over-
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
The City of Irondale has launched its annual “Feed the Need” Food Drive, a citywide initiative led by Mayor James D. Stewart, Jr. to help local families facing
See PINSON, Page 4
See SPRINGVILLE, Page 2
See BONES, Page
See LEEDS, Page 5 See FEED THE NEED, Page 4
Leeds High School freshmen take action to address rising school shootings
By Tanna McGuire
Girl Scout Troop 679 holds flag retirement ceremony in Leeds
By Jakob Gurley
LEEDS, Ala. – Over
LEEDS – Troop 679
held a Flag Retirement Ceremony on Saturday, Nov. 8, 2025, at the Bass Pro Shop in Leeds, where Scouts, families, and community members gathered to honor the American flag and the values it represents.
the past 25 years, school shootings in the United States have surged to alarming levels, with a reported 574 incidents occurring between 2000 and 2025, according to data from Statista. Three Leeds High School freshmen, Amelia Davis, Madilynn Johnson, and Beatrice McCormick, members of the Leeds High School Chapter of Future Career Community Leaders of America (FCCLA), are determined to address this pressing issue through their state conference project.
Stewart also presented a check to the Friends of the Irondale Public Library. The $1,695 contribution was funded through the dis-
Birmingham-based Foxhound Bee Company is preparing to break ground on the 5,000 square foot facility
cretionary funds of council members John London and Aaron Sim to support community engagement, programs and provide resources. The new library opened last month. On the consent agenda, the council approved the election of David Spivey as Council President. And John London as Council President Pro-Tempore. Both council members served in the same roles in the previ-
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. It will be built across from the all-new Ruffner Sports Complex, which
opened on Saturday.
“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.
The council also approved the appointment of Leigh Allison as City Clerk, Josh McDaniel as Fire Chief and April Danielson as City Attorney. All three previously served in those roles in the last administration.
The ceremony, which began at 10 a.m., gave participants an opportunity to respectfully retire worn and tattered flags in accordance with the U.S. Flag Code, which states that when a flag “is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem for display,” it should be destroyed in a dignified way — preferably by burning. The process serves as a solemn act of respect for the nation’s colors, ensuring the flag’s final display is carried out with care and reverence.
“Everyone on the project seemed to speak highly of working with Irondale and its leadership. So, when we approached the
In other business, the council approved a sales tax holiday for the weekend beginning Feb. 20.
See IRONDALE, Page 4
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
Current federal require ments 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.
For Scout Madelynn Howe, the experience carried deep personal meaning. “It feels very patriotic. I’m very proud to do it,” Howe said. “We’re properly retir-
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.
“When people’s lives are on the line, we can’t just do the bare minimum,” Davis said.
“Schools should take intruder drills as seriously as they do fire or tornado drills.” Johnson echoed this
ing our colors. I love this country a lot, and I’m proud to honor the flag.” Howe shared that during her first flag-tying ceremony, her troop saved the grommets — the small metal rings used to attach a flag to its hoisting line — as a memento. “We saved those grommets, and those were the Christmas present to my grandfather because he
“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.
“School shootings are such a huge problem, and we
served in the Korean War,” she said. “It’s just a gift to honor their service and remember the flag that they served with.” Scouts carefully handled flags of all sizes throughout the ceremony, some of which were large enough to require multiple people to prepare them for retirement.
See STUDENTS, Page
See MOODY, Page
A concept of the new education center in Irondale. (Foxhound Bee Company)
Pictured: Beatrice McCormick, Madilynn Johnson, and Amelia Davis.
Mayor Dave Thomas delivers a lengthy dissertation to members of the city council. (Terry Schrimscher/Trussville Tribune)
The City of Irondale presented a check to Friends of the Irondale Public Library during the Nov. 4 council meeting. Photo courtesy City of Irondale.
Scouts from Troop 679 carefully unfold a worn American flag during the Flag Retirement Ceremony held at Bass Pro Shop. (Photo by Mandy Pearson)
Pinson Mayor Hoyt Sanders Photo by Nathan Prewett
The Trussville Tribune
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
The following is a true story. The little girl was walking with her mother. They were taking a stroll through the hospital garden, bathed in the dappled sunlight of early afternoon, looking at all the flowers in bloom.
“Mama,” said the child, “who planted all these flowers?”
Mother replied, “The gardener, I guess.”
The mother wore chemo headwear. She was frail, and much younger than she appeared. Her hands were puffy. Her vision was going bad. She had lost her tastebuds.
According to recent news, she would not be long for this world.
As they walked through the garden, they could see the landscaper, working in the soil, planting new flowers. He was on his knees, digging in the beds.
“Why does the gardener dig in the dirt like that?” the child asked.
“Because that’s how you
plant flowers.”
“You mean he LIKES getting dirty?”
“I don’t know,” said Mom. “I mean, I guess so. Why else would anyone be a gardener?”
The little girl was silent, taking it all in.
The girl pointed to another grouping of yellow flowers. She didn’t know what kind they were. The gardener noticed her pointing. He said they were Asiatic lilies.
“They’re pretty, aren’t they?” said the gardener. “I just love Asiatic lilies.”
“Did you plant those, too?” the girl asked.
“Yes, ma’am,” he said, with a note of personal pride.
“I planted all the flowers you see in this garden.”
“The whole garden?” the girl replied.
“Yes’m. Everything.”
“And the trees, too?” the child asked.
“Yes, I planted the trees, too. The crepe myrtles, the tea olives…”
“What about the bushes?” asked the little girl, gesturing to the shrubs. The gardener looked at the hydrangeas and the rhododendrons. “Yeah, those too. I planted everything you see out here. Both big and small.”
The little girl approached the man. “Why?”
The man had to laugh. Then he shrugged.
“Don’t know. Because I love doing it. I like working in the dirt and making pretty things grow.”
The little girl was serious. “Do you ever hurt your own flowers?”
The man wrinkled his face. “What you mean? No.
I’d never do that.”
“You’d never kill your own flowers?” asked the little girl.
“Don’t be ridiculous.”
“You’d never tear them up and throw them away, just because?”
“Heaven’s no,” the man said. “I could never do a thing like that. I planted this whole garden. Why would I want to destroy it?”
The little girl’s face broke into a massive smile. She ran back into her mother’s arms.
“See?” the child said.
“You’re going to be okay, Mom.” That was 23 years ago. And as it happened, the girl turned out to be right.
L oca L / R egion
Alabama delegation splits over shutdown resolution as vote nears
From Tribune Staff Reports
WASHINGTON – Members of Alabama’s congressional delegation sharpened their responses this week as the 40-day federal government shutdown edged closer to a resolution.
U.S. Rep. Terri A. Sewell, whose district includes parts of Irondale and Center Point, strongly opposed a GOP-led bill aimed at reopening the government, posting: “This socalled ‘deal’ is nothing more than empty promises. I am a HELL NO on any bill that raises health care costs for millions of Americans.”
On the flip side, U.S. Sen. Katie Britt supported the effort to end the shutdown via a Senate vote, saying, “Last night I voted again to reopen the government — this 40
day shutdown is finally nearing an end. … We’ll continue to work hard this week to get this over the finish line and ensure that we put the American people over partisan politics.”
Programs hit hard in Alabama include the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which was delayed as funding lapsed. Many residents across the state began to experience interruptions in assistance, underscoring the shutdown’s real-world effects.
The split within Alabama’s delegation mirrors the broader national divide: Republicans emphasizing a “clean” spending extension to restart the government and Democrats resisting unless health-care costs and other long-term issues are addressed.
Food City officially opens Trussville location in former Winn-Dixie building
From Tribune Staff Reports
TRUSSVILLE, Ala. –
Food City officially opened its doors Thursday morning at 465 Main Street in Trussville, marking the company’s first store in the area and one of three new Alabama locations acquired from Winn-Dixie.
The Trussville location, along with stores in Jasper and Fultondale, is part of the Virginia-based grocery
chain’s continued expansion into Alabama. Each store measures approximately 44,000 square feet and will operate daily from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.
“We’re excited to expand our operations into this new market area,” said Steven C. Smith, Food City President and Chief Executive Officer.
“Winn-Dixie has served the community for a number of years, and we are proud to welcome these stores into our Food City family. We will continue to make significant investments in the locations over the coming months to meet the needs of our customers and ensure the future success of our new teammates.”
Food City retained the majority of former Winn-Dixie employees, including store managers, as part of the transition. The stores closed earlier in the week for a quick conversion and reopened Thursday under the Food City banner.
food insecurity. The drive aims to collect food and financial donations to support residents across the community during the holiday season and beyond.
According to local data, more than 85,000 people in Jefferson County experience food insecurity and don’t know where their next meal will come from. In response, the city is partnering with the Community Food Bank of Central Alabama, which serves more than 300
Pinson
From front page
view for the month of October, saying that there were 146 emergency calls, two of which were structure fires, one vehicle fire and 20 vehicle accidents.
“Some were minor, some were a little bit more serious but my brave men and women of the fire service, they did a wonderful job this past month,” he said.
In his report Sanders announced that there will be a senior citizens activities event at the Rock School on Dec. 3 at 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Anyone interested in attending is asked to register with City Hall first by calling 205-680-5556.
He mentioned that the mural on the Rock School is in need of repair or repainting and said that quotes for this to be done will be requested. He said he also
agencies across the region.
“Hunger doesn’t take a holiday,” said Mayor Stewart. “While our neighbors are in need, Irondale is stepping up to feed the need. We’re not only collecting donations—we’re putting food directly on tables this holiday season with 200 free turkeys for Thanksgiving and 200 free hams for Christmas. Every donation, whether a can of beans or a dollar, moves us closer to a community where no one goes hungry.”
Citizens can drop off non-perishable food items or make financial donations at Irondale City Hall now
hopes to get quotes for extra windows for the Palmerdale Homestead Community Center (PHCC).
Sanders added that business recruitment continues to be a priority for him and invited anyone who is interested in starting a business to contact City Hall.
A Veterans Day celebration will be held at Rock School on Nov. 11 with Pat Wise to provide music with her band, he said. The “Tis the Season” Christmas parade event will be held on Dec. 5 at 6 p.m. The council heard from Parks and Recreation Director Taurus Pyles who spoke about Pinson youth cheerleaders who took part in and won awards during a recent Battle of the South cheerleading competition.
A cheerleading squad was present to give a demonstration for the public. In other business the council
through January 8, 2026. Every dollar donated provides four meals for those in need, and each item collected helps local families put food on the table.
In addition to the food drive, the city will host two community giveaway events at Irondale City Hall, both beginning at 8 a.m. and continuing while supplies last:
• Thanksgiving Turkey Giveaway: Saturday, Nov. 22
• Holiday Ham Giveaway: Saturday, Dec. 20
Online donations can be made at www.IrondaleCommunityFoundation.com.
• Declared several city vehicles as surplus,
• Approved training for council, staff and planning commission members at ALALM, NLC and UNA Zoning events in 2026, Appointed Andre Roper, Grant Mitchell, Marvelyn Deese, Lesa Dotman, and Debra Agree to the Board of Zoning Adjustment, with Agee and Robbie Roberts to be alternates, after a typo was discovered in a previous resolution, and
• Annexed a property on Overbrook Circle.
Pinson City Council meets on the first and third Thursdays of every month at City Hall on 4410 Main Street. Live-streamed meetings can be seen on the city’s Facebook page. Nathan Prewett can be reached at nthomasp6@ gmail.com.
Trussville
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approved multiple zoning cases, funding agreements, and community grants across the county — including support for the Trussville Senior Center.
Commissioners approved a Community Grant Program Agreement with the City of Trussville for $1,500 to assist the Trussville Senior Center with various programs and activities throughout the year. The funding was sponsored through District 4 Commissioner Joe Knight.
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In total, the Commission approved 51 resolutions and held three public hearings on zoning cases. One of the most notable approvals was case Z-25-0009, a request to rezone property at 397 and 403 West Oxmoor Road in Birmingham to C-1 (Commercial), removing restrictive covenants to allow development of a shopping plaza and a convenience store with gas pumps. The site previously operated as a pest control business with covenants tied to chemical use.
expansion of Central Alabama’s technology ecosystem.
• Community grants in multiple districts, including:
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» District 2 (Commissioner Sheila Tyson): $11,000 for Glennwood Storm Shelter; $20,000 for the Fultondale Senior Center; $20,000 for the Brighton Senior Center.
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Other notable actions included:
• Affirming support for the Northern Beltline Project, cited as an important infrastructure investment for Jefferson County’s economic growth.
EDUCATION
Approval of a $275,000 professional services contract with Tech Birmingham to support the
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» District 3 (Commissioner Jimmie Stephens): $17,500 to the Town of Brookside for ADA-compliant accessibility improvements; $7,500 for a Pleasant Grove community engagement event; and an intergovernmental agreement with the City of Hoover for $600,000 in sidewalk improvements on Shades Crest and Sulphur Springs roads.
ment with The Jones Group, LLC for lobbying efforts $25,000 for a professional services agreement with Development Dynamics, LLC for the preparation of a revenue analysis
» District 4 (Commissioner Joe Knight): $10,000 for the Birmingham International Educational Film Festival to support production of Royal Jelly – A Honey Bee Tale; $25,000 to the Alabama Greek Foundation to support HBCU recruitment; and $44,514 to the Center for Negro League Baseball Research for operations at the Negro Southern League Museum.
» District 5 (Commissioner Mike Bolin): $5,000 to the Vestavia Hills City Schools Foundation for professional development and training.
The Commission’s meetings are streamed live on the Jefferson County Commission Facebook page for public viewing.
• A renewed agreement with Sain Associates, Inc. for on-call engineering services
Howe said. “This one was interesting. It was so big.”
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The ceremony provided both a lesson in civic respect and a moment of reflection
The next meeting of the Irondale City Council will be held at 6 p.m. on Nov. 18 at Irondale City Hall. An agenda for the meeting can be found on the Irondale website prior to the meeting.
for attendees, emphasizing the importance of honoring the symbols of freedom and those who serve beneath them.
under former mayor David Miller. The new council members are: Dale Faulkner (District 5), Sabrina Rose (District 1), Ryan Holtbrooks (District 4) and Cary Kennedy (District 3).
Eddie Moore officially became the city’s new mayor. The oaths were administered by Municipal Judge Cliff Price.
“We live in a country where people can vote,” Moore told the audience.
“You have elected us. We’re here to work for you, exclusively. In whatever way,
Moody
From front page
“For us it just means a lot because we experienced the coming home from Vietnam thing and how they treated people and the things that were said at the airports and things like that,” said Virginia Franks, who was with her husband, Richard, a U.S. Air Force Veteran, at the civic center. “I mean it was just terrible. But now I think things are changing some.”
Nov. 3 was the day that the banners would go up at the civic center and elsewhere as part of the program where the images of military veterans and their branches of service are displayed as a tribute to their sacrifices, whether it was their time or their lives.
The program began in 2023 after Crowe and fellow council member, Ellis Key, attended a conference where they saw brochures of banners bearing the images of veterans, giving them the idea to do the same in Moody.
“We got to talking to this man about it, and Montevallo and Jasper, they were showing pictures of them and we thought, ‘Well, why can’t we do this?’” Crowe
in whatever area we’ll try our best to be active. Now, I want to be very clear: this administration is here for you. Period.”
When he took his seat Moore recognized Rep. Susan DuBose, who was in attendance, and asked any veterans in the room at City Hall to stand and be recognized as well. He also recognized the city staff, including Fire Chief Chuck Parsons and Police Chief Paul Irwin.
Ken Thompson was introduced as the new city attorney while Ronnie Dixon, who has worked as city manager for the City of
said. Crowe’s husband, Wayne, was a veteran who served in the Army during the Vietnam War. Several of her uncles and cousins were also veterans. She bought the first two banners, which displayed her husband and her uncle, Clayton Taylor, who was killed in Luxembourg during World War Two.
“I think today people do not honor people in the military like I think they should,” said Linda Crowe, who is mayor pro temp of the city council. “I mean, I know I’m prejudiced with that. I know that when my husband came home from Vietnam, I mean it was like ‘You went to Vietnam? Shame on you.’ I mean, he didn’t have a choice.”
It began with eight but now 19 banners have been raised, said Moody Administrative Assistant Melissa Fraser. Conflicts represented on the banners are Vietnam, World War Two, Korea, Afghanistan and Iraq. Those who currently serve in the military can be on a banner. It is not limited to Moody residents, anyone from elsewhere can be displayed.
“We just decided that if they were willing to make that sacrifice we were will-
Clay, was introduced as executive assistant.
“Let me tell you, today was my first day in office and I worked most of the
ing to put them on,” Fraser said. “Anybody. You don’t have be a veteran. Anybody serving the country can be put up.”
Jim Banks, a retired lieutenant of the Pell City Fire Department, was present with his grandson, Kyle, on his knee. His father, Jack Banks, was a veteran of the Seventh Army, working intelligence during the Vietnam War. His grandfather, James R. Brunson, is featured on a banner as he served in World War Two and was stationed at a German POW camp in Georgia.
“It’s a lack of respect all the way around,” he said about why he thought the program is important. “The military, the flag, all of it.”
Richard Franks was drafted served in Thailand in the Air Force during Vietnam from 1971 to 1975. He comes from a military family, with his father fighting in World War Two.
“You didn’t tell anybody back in those days…” he said before he paused for a minute as he became emotional. “… that you were military. They hated them. People in the United States hated military, and, you know, it just made me want to push even harder to respect all military.”
ADVERTISEMENT AND NOTICE FOR BIDS
City of Argo – Storm Drainage Project
The City of Argo is taking sealed bids for labor, equipment, materials, and any incidentals required to complete the work required for the Roulain Road Culvert Replacement and Cedar Creek Drainage Project. This bid is intended to comply with the Alabama Code Title 39, the Alabama Public Works Law. Bidders shall be required to comply with the provisions of Title 39 of the Alabama Code regardless if the requirement is explicitly detailed in the bid proposal or not.
All bids must be marked with the word “BID” on the outside of the bid package along with Bid Proposal for City of Argo – Storm Drainage Project, the bid date and the Alabama General Contractor’s License Number.
All bids must be submitted on the provided bid forms. A cashier’s check or bid bond payable to City of Argo in an amount not less than ve (5) percent of the amount of the bid, but in no more than $10,000, must accompany the bidder’s proposal. Performance and Payment Bonds and evidence of insurance required in the bid documents will be required at the signing of the Contract.
Sealed bids will be received by the City of Argo at 100 Blackjack Road, Argo, AL 35173 until 10:30 AM Central Time on November 24, 2025, and then publicly read aloud. Award will be made at the next regularly scheduled meeting of the City of Argo.
The bid package is on le at City of Argo, 100 Blackjack Road, Argo, AL 35173. The bid package may be obtained by emailing your request for bid documents to Chris Jenkins, PE at cjenkins@sain.com. Partial sets of Bidding Documents will not be available from the Engineer. Neither Owner or Engineer will be responsible for full or partial sets of Bidding Documents, including Addenda if any, obtained from sources other the Engineer. All other questions related to this bid should be directed to this same email address.
The City of Argo reserves the right to accept or reject any or all bids or to waive any informality in the bidding process. portion thereof.
Dates Advertised: November 6, 2025, November 13, 2025 and November 20, 2025.
day here and I found that the largest, biggest lie that has been told to me is that the mayor of Leeds is a parttime job,” he said to laugh-
He came from a time when soldiers were often called “baby killers” because of the horrors of combat overseas but he emphasized that his and the service of others was about what he said was keeping the homeland safe.
“I had a job to do just like anybody else and one of the main things in that job was to make where we’re sitting
ter. “That’s true. It’s not, and I’m ready to tackle it. I work hard. I love this city and it’s a pleasure for me to sit here.”
right now safe, and you can understand I’m talking to you instead of trying to have a translator,” he said.
Despite what some today may say about veterans then and now, the belief that those who have been in the military hold about their service does not waver.
“You know, I’d go on and on but that’s just the main thing,” he said. “But like I say all of them are proud to be a veteran and always will be.”
Kimberly Hill Harrison’s grandfather, Howard Joseph Hill, served in Korea and Vietnam and passed away 14 years ago.
“It’s just a really great way to honor him,” she said.
“He served with so much pride. When I see his face it reminds me of his service and the sacrifices, you know, that he gave for our
Andrew Salser was appointed as city prosecutor and Josh Mitchell was appointed public defender. At the end of the meeting it was announced that DuBose presented a check for $5,000 to the Leeds Jane Culbreth Public Library.
Leeds City Council meetings are now held on the second and fourth Mondays of every month at City Hall on 1400 9th Street Northeast. Agenda packets can be seen online at the City of Leeds website. Nathan Prewett can be reached at nthomasp6@ gmail.com.
country and the legacy that he’s left behind is amazing.” Fraser said, “We honor all veterans, current and military, whether you’re here or not. We have people that live here that have gotten banners for their dads or grandfathers and are very proud of it. They go up and they just cry. It’s just touching for them.”
Made by Gilreath Printing and Signs in Pell City, the banners go up before Veterans Day every year and stay up for at least two weeks.
The fee for a banner is $200 each. Banners are guaranteed for three years and can be purchased by calling City Hall at 205640-2528 and speaking with Fraser.
Nathan Prewett can be reached at nthomasp6@ gmail.com.
Photo by Melissa Fraser.
By Jeff Poor
Last weeks elections may seem like a blip on the radar to us in Alabama.
The anticipated outcome was as expected in the Democrat strongholds of New Jersey, California, New York City, and to some degree, Virginia.
Unless you got caught up in the Fox News Channel hype machine thinking that Jack Ciattarelli would keep it close in New Jersey, last Tuesday night was another off-cycle, off-year election night.
The party that wasn’t in the White House had a good night.
From the outset of President Donald Trump’s second term, some congressional Republicans have suggested that things were going so well that the GOP could gain seats in the House in 2026.
I haven’t had a lot of discussion with my colleagues about it, but my own personal observations are I think we have a chance to actually increase our majority in the House” U.S. Rep. Gary Palmer said during a radio interview back in July. Again, because the Democrat policies are so stupid, frankly.”
Stupid policies or not, voter behavior is never really that simple.
Democrat voters are motivated. They are dressing up in inflatable phallic costumes, standing on street corners and waving anti-Trump signs in Fairhope.
As silly as that seems, it shows, albeit misguided, an enthusiasm that is unmatched in the short term. That enthusiasm translates into voter turnout, and voter
o pinion Expect the expected
turnout is the key to winning elections perceived as not on a par with a national presidential election.
At this point, this year won’tbe any different. Even if Trump prevails in ending the government shutdown and implements his economic policy, Republicans will likely lose the House. The margins are too narrow, and it is likely wishful thinking to expect a break with the historical pattern.
The Senate map is somewhat friendly for Republicans, which is potentially salvageable, but could also end up under Democratic control.
People are more prone to vote against something than for something. Last Tuesday showed that, and
that is why Democrat candidates mostly outperformed the polling heading into the election.
Alabama will be immune to this national trend. Even in the best-case scenario, there are not enough Democrat voters in Alabama to overcome the two-to-one advantage Republicans hold over the Democrats.
The only time that has happened since the statehouse flipped from Democrat to Republican in 2010 came in 2017 with an offyear, off-cycle special election for U.S. Senate.
The Doug Jones upset win required a mid-December election with unprecedented Democrat turnout and a badly damaged Roy Moore, who was facing
suspicious allegations of sexual harassment that had occurred decades earlier.
What Democrats should not do, but will likely do, is interpret any 2026 outcome as a mandate.
In the past, both parties have mistakenly interpreted their midterm successes as an ideological mandate — that, despite having elected a Republican or Democrat to the White House in the previous presidential election, the country was seeking a 180- degree course correction.
That was misread for the Newt Gingrich-led Republicans after the 1994 midterms. Bill Clinton was able to rally and defeat Bob Dole two years later by 8 million votes, amounting to a 379-
159 Electoral College landslide.
Republicans made the same mistake after the 2010 midterm elections. Barack Obama, a once-in-a-lifetime politician, won the 2012 presidential election by 5 million votes, a resounding 332-206 Electoral College victory.
Even when Obama was able to follow the 2006 Democrat wave to defeat then-Republican nominee John McCain in the 2008 presidential election, it was based on entirely different subject matter.
Democrats won in 2006 on war fatigue. After Obama defeated Hillary Clinton in the Democratic Party’s last competitive presidential primary, the Obama-
Biden ticket solidified its front-runner status on the heels of the country’s financial collapse.
Democrats are due for a civil war. For two decades, they have avoided a knockdown, drag-out fight for the party’s presidential nod.
In 2012, Obama ran as an incumbent.
In 2016, Hillary Clinton had the deck stacked in her favor, with primary debates scheduled at obscure times, and, as we would later learn from the WikiLeaks release, a party chairwoman, Debbie Wasserman Schultz, was working behind the scenes to ensure Hillary Clinton would have an easy path to the nomination.
In 2020, under the guise of COVID, Joe Biden successfully ran from the basement to win his party’s nomination. It’s still remarkable how Biden pulled it off, considering he finished fourth in the Iowa caucuses and fifth in the New Hampshire primary.
In 2024, Democrats avoided a contested primary with Biden running as the incumbent, only to step aside and cede the nomination to then-Vice President Kamala Harris.
For now, the glue that keeps the Democratic Party together and functioning is the enthusiastic opposition to Donald Trump. What will happen if congressional Democrats overplay their hand coming out of 2026, combined with the circular firing squad of an actual competitive presidential primary?
Don’t bet against Democrats in 2026. However, don’t assume that means 2028 is lost for Republicans, either.
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Local Meetings
● Trussville City Council
Meetings: 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m.,
City Council Annex
● Trussville Board of Education Meetings: 3rd Monday of each month at 6 p.m., TCS Central Office
● Clay City Council Meetings: 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m.
● Pinson City Council Meetings: 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month at 7 p.m.
● Center Point City Council Meetings: 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month, at 6:30 p.m.
● Argo City Council Meetings: 2nd and 4th Monday of each month at 5 p.m.
● Springville City Council Meetings: 1st and 3rd Monday of each month at 6 p.m.
● Irondale City Council Meetings: 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m.
● Leeds City Council Meetings: 1st and 3rd Monday of each month at 6 p.m.
● Moody City Council Meetings: 2nd and 4th Monday of each month at 6 p.m.
● 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.
Teen-Homeschool Hangout
Thursday, November 13
1:00pm - 2:00pm
Trussville
A place for homeschool teens to hang out, socialize, and play some games. (6th-12th)
Are you a homeschool family with teens looking to hang out with other teen homeschool families? Join this drop-in event in the library’s meeting room (Cahaba) to socialize and play board games. You are welcome to bring your own activities to share with others, too. We’ll provide a light snacks and drinks. Come and hang out!
(Photographs may be taken during the program and used by the TPL. If you do not want pictures of your child to be taken please let the Librarian in charge of the event know)
Adult D&D Group 2
Thursday, November 13
5:30pm - 7:45pm
Trussville
Cahaba Room
Join us to play Dungeons & Dragons! We will meet every other Thursday.
Join us to play Dungeons & Dragons! We will meet every other Thursday playing Spelljammer: Adventures in Space. Home of the stars and gateway to the heavens, the Astral Plane teems with excitement and possibility. With the help of magic, spelljammers can cross the oceans of Wildspace, ply the silvery void known as the Astral Sea, and hop between worlds of the D&D multiverse.
Tiny Talkers Preschool Spanish Program
Friday, November 14 10:30am - 11:00am
Trussville
LBK Auditorium
A Spanish enrichment class for young children and their families (2 - 6 years old).
Vilma Gomez, founder of Tiny Talkers Preschool Spanish Program, will offer a Spanish immersion program for children ages 2 - 6 years old. Through music, movement, storytelling, and play, children will be introduced to Spanish in a natural, engaging way. A wonderful opportunity to introduce your little one to language learning in a fun setting! Space is limited. Registration for each child attending is required.
Anime Club Monday, November 17 4:00pm - 5:00pm Trussville Cahaba Room Club for manga and anime fans. The Trussville Library is hosting a Anime Club for manga and anime fans. Join us each month to make an anime themed craft. Please make sure to sign up for the event as supplies are limited.
This month we will be making anime themed ornaments!
(Photographs may be taken during the program and used by the TPL. If you do not want pictures of your child to be taken please let the Librarian in charge of the event know)
o bitua R y
Stephen "Steve" Douglas Rogers
october 13, 1949 — november 5, 2025
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Stephen “Steve” Rogers, age 76 of Trussville. Al.
March 9 at 1:30 p.m. - Extensive ACT review class
Nancy Haggard Carlisle
february 28, 1935 — november 3, 2025
Nancy Haggard Carlisle, born February 28, 1935, passed away on November 3, 2025.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Don Carlisle; her daughter, Jeanna Speegle; and her son-in-law, Tim Speegle.
to pick up our “Dahl’s Delightful Kits.” Packed with exciting games, activities, & crafts inspired by Dahl’s beloved stories
He was a 1967 graduate of Phillips High School. Steve grew up in the Norwood Community of Birmingham where he made many friends and long-lasting memories. After graduation Steve attended Jefferson State Community College. He also served 6 years in the U.S. Coast Guard Reserve. He and his wife, Carol, met on a blind date and married in 1972. They would soon be celebrating their 53rd wedding anniversary. After a 40-year career of working with the Bell System, his retirement was with AT&T.
● Chess Club: Monday, March 10 at 5 p.m. - Learn the basics, cool tricks, strategy, opening, and tactic in chess from a ChessKidsNation coach
She is survived by her grandson, Clint Speegle, his wife, Cam, and their sons, Cavander and Courtland; and by her granddaughter, Celia McCullough, her husband, Whit McCullough, and their son, Carlisle. She is also survived by two brothers and a sister.
● Storytime for Growin’ Beans with Ms. Allison: Friday, March 7 at 10 a.m.
With big, open arms, he always welcomed his five grandchildren, whom he adored: Carter, Parker & Blair Lybrand, Reese and Landon Childs.
● Books & Brews: Monday, March 10 at 7:15 p.m. - An evening Adult Book Club meeting at Ferus Artisan Ales
- Our theme is Smell. We’ll read books, have fun, do a craft, & have a snack
Steve is survived by his wife, Carol Rogers; daughters, Ashley Rogers Lybrand (Jason) & Lesley Rogers Childs (Scotty); Sister, Sue Ann Scarborough (Mickey); Nephews, Greg and David Scarborough; Niece, Barbara Rogers Tilley (Larry); and a special nephew by marriage, Scott Barrentine. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ocie & H.G. Rogers, and brother, Ronald G. Rogers. Scotty and Landon Childs, Carter, Parker and Jason Lybrand, Greg Scarborough and Scott Barrentine will serve as pallbearers.
● Ukulele Club: Tuesday, March 11 at 6:30 p.m. - Beginner ukulele club
● 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
Luther Whittle
march 4, 1939 — november 3, 2025
● 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:
Known to her family and those who were like family as “Nan,” she was devoted to those she loved and always put family first. She will be sorely missed and lovingly remembered. A memorial service will be held in the chapel at Kirkwood by the River on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. She was buried alongside Don in a private service at Jefferson Memorial Gardens in Trussville. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Kirkwood by the River or to Founders Place at
Church.
Notice is hereby given that Service Company, Inc., 110 Greenbrook Dr., Hazel Gre 35750, has completed all wo Well #17 and #18 Project 3-010-23 3-011-23, for Trussville Gas All persons having any claim materials, or otherwise in conne with this project, should imme notify the above named cont Trussville Gas and Water, 127 Street, Trussville, AL 35173.
In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Steve can be made to: St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN. 38105.
● 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! Please bring your device with you if you are able
Luther “Phillip” Whittle (86) was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great- grandfather. The world lost a beautiful soul on November 2, 2025. He was known for his warm and generous heart. In his younger years he would collect nascar cars and he loved watching the race on Sundays. Phil was a veteran and had served proudly in the United States Navy. After serving in the military he went to work for National Automatic Sprinkler Industry. He loved to grow vegetables in his garden and put the spiciest peppers on all his food. He loved to cook out on the grill and spend time with his family. Him and Marie loved crafting woodwork together. No matter what crazy idea she may have had he was her number 1 biggest fan. Although we are saddened by his passing, we know he is joyful being with the Lord and walking again by his beloved wife.
Mary Ann Proctor
● Geek Guild D&D (Teens): Tuesday, March 11 at 4:30
Survivors include his children, Phillis (Travis), Daniel (Margaret), Tawana (Dennis), Jerry: Grandchildren, Bruce (Jennifer), Adrian (Jerllie), Randy (Natalie), Sue (Shane), Brandy (Zachery), Buddy (Kristi), Corey (Kayla), Casey (Mattie), Shelbey (Harrison), Joseph, Jacob (Brooke), Emiley, Sarah; Great grandchildren: Brayden, June, Kyleigh, Cope, Corey, Lane, Kayson, Justin, Riley, Lucas, Charlie, Elizabeth, Lorelai, Marley, Hazel, Aiden, Landon, Ivory, Brad, Oliver, John Brooks, Isabella, John Micheal, Dakota,
- We’re playing Dungeons & Dragons! Delve the Forgotten Realm this fantasy Role-Playing Game.
● Junior Jamz: WednesMarch 12 at 10
instruments
● Let’s March strument playing
Cougars advance to round two with 49-26 win over Jackson-Olin
By Johnny Sanders, Sports Editor
CLAY, Ala – On
Thursday night, the ClayChalkville Cougars put their undefeated record on the line against the Jackson-Olin Mustangs in round one of the playoffs. While the Cougar offense did not miss a beat, scoring exactly the season average of 49 points, the defense struggled in the first half, allowing the Mustangs to score more points (26) than they allowed against 7A powerhouse Thompson (24). Clay defeated the Mustangs 49-26 in the end, punching their ticket to round two.
After an opening-game squib kick by the Mustangs, Clay took over at their own 46-yard line. It took just one play for the vaunted Cougar offense to get going as Aaron Frye found Jakari Johnson for the 54-yard touchdown strike on the game’s first play from scrimmage. Clay would go for two and make it 8-0 at the 11:48 mark of the first period.
The Mustangs, however, would answer with a long drive that found them deep in Cougar territory, culminating in a short touchdown pass to make it 8-6 after a failed two-point play at the 6:58 mark of the first.
Once again, the Cougar offense was firing on all cylinders and Frye found Nasir Ray on a 13-yard touch-
down to go up 14-6 on the visitors with 5:11 to play in the opening quarter.
Not to be outdone, JO would use some misdirection and another long drive would end with the Mustangs celebrating inn the end zone after another touchdown pass. It would now be 14-14 at the 1:36 mark.
Frye would find his third different receiver of the night for a touchdown as 6A’s potential Mr. Football, Corey Barber, hauled in a 47-yard bomb for the score with just 1:12 to play in the first, making it 21-14.
The Mustangs would hold onto the ball for most of the second quarter as the Cougars gave up multiple third down plays to them, some on busted plays and others on costly penalties. JO would punch in a short touchdown run with 6:39 to go before the break.
The Cougars would drive down and Joshua Woods would get his first touchdown of the night, punching it in from seven yards out to make it 28-20 Cougars and that is how the first half would end.
With a monumental upset on their minds, the Mustangs received the opening kickoff of the second half, but those thoughts of an upset were quickly dashed as the Cougars knocked the ball lose and recovered it deep in JO territory. Just a
couple of plays later, Woods would pound through the line on a four-yard run to paydirt to put the Cougars up 35-20 at the 9:40 mark of the third.
The Mustangs’ fumbling woes continued on their next
drive as their running back would give the ball back to the Cougars. Woods would scamper for a 10-yard score at the 5:14 mark of the third to make it 42-20.
JO tacked on another touchdown in the fourth, but
backup quarterback CJ Eldridge would blast through would-be tacklers on his way to a 25-yard touchdown run with just 2:10 to play and seal the deal at 49-26.
Joshua Woods, who finished with 3 touchdowns,
said, “In the first half, we played sloppy on defense.
The coaches got onto us and we came out in the second half and did good. Me and Corey Barber and Frye went to the defensive players and told them to just keep their heads up and we would win the game.”
Defensive leader Colton McEntyre said, “The offense played good but defense wasn’t at our best. We let some explosive plays go through. I told our guys at halftime that the score is 0-0.”
“Offensively we were very efficient and did what they were supposed to do, said Clay head coach Stuart Floyd. “Defense, not so good. They put their best player at quarterback, which they haven’t done all year, and he is a track kid and a good player, but it’s different when he is touching it every play. We’ve got to get better and tighten some things up. At halftime we tried to stay positive. For me it was just, you played bad, play better. Some of that is on us as coaches, putting them in bad situations. They were pretty down and I just tried to keep it positive. We have to play together and support each other.”
The Cougars remain undefeated, improving to 11-0 on the season. They will host Gadsden City in round two next Friday.
Nasir Ray with the catch for the Cougars. Credit: Jake McCune
Moody dominates Corner in first round of playoffs
By Johnny Sanders, Sports Editor
MOODY, Ala
– Moody’s Jake Ganus is in his fourth season as a head coach and he has already made a habit out of not only getting into the playoffs at Moody, but advancing past round one, which he has now done all four years. Friday night, Ganus’ Blue Devils beat Corner 49-21 in the first round of the 5A playoffs.
Corner looked to get things going early with an onside kick recovery right out of the gate. The Yellowjackets pounded the ball deep into Moody territory but a Caden Cofield interception at the goal line gave the ball to Moody and swung the momentum in the home team’s favor.
A few plays after the interception, Le’Kamren Meadows busted an 81-yard run for Moody and the Ryan
McPherson PAT made it 7-0
Moody at the 9:22 mark of the first quarter.
A promising Corner drive ended on a key tackle in the backfield by Kylan Baker on a fourth down play that set Moody up just shy of the 50.
Jake Lowery got started on his monumental night as he found Josiah Dozier for a 52-yard bomb that put the Blue Devils up 14-0 with 5:09 to play in the first quarter.
Moody’s defense continued to dominate Corner as the Yellowjackets gave them the ball back and at the 1:15 mark of the first, Lowery would get his second touchdown of the game, hitting Jalijah Rutledge for a 45-yard score, making it 21-0 Moody.
Corner would struggle once again and Moody got the ball back deep in their own territory. They would
put together a drive with some key plays on third down by Lowery and his receivers, along with Meadows, Kevin James and Juju Hill running the ball. From the 16-yard line, Lowery found Dozier in the corner of the end zone for their second connection of the night and it was 28-0 Moody.
Corner refused to go away, however. The next drive led to a Yellowjacket touchdown on a long pass to narrow the gap to 28-7 with 6:52 to go before halftime.
The Yellowjackets then held Moody and got the ball back and scored on a sixyard pass play with 13 seconds left in the half and the score at the break would be 28-14 with the visitors heading into the locker room on a 14-0 run.
Corner looked to keep their momentum as they got the ball first in the third quarter, but Moody held them on
a key fourth down play.
On the next play, Lowery through his only interception of the game on a long pass attempt, giving the ball back to Corner, but the Yellowjackets could not capitalize.
With 4:10 to play, Lowery tossed his fourth touchdown of the game to his third different receiver, this time Aubrey Walker got the catch for the score from 31 yards out. Moody would go up 35-14 at that point.
Linebacker Jagger Ludolff would ignite the stadium as he stopped a promising Corner drive with a pick six that covered 64 yards and made it 4214 with 9:16 to play in the game.
Corner would add a touchdown pass with 7:52 to play before Kevin James blasted a 27-yard touchdown run to end the scoring and give Moody the 49-21 victory.
Jake Lowery finished the night 24 of 28 passing for 350 yards and four touchdowns. Jalijah Rutledge caught eight passes for 126 yards and a touchdown with
Josiah Dozier close behind with five catches for 93 yards and two touchdowns.
Le’Kamren Meadows had 10 carries for 134 yards and a score.
“We were rested up as a team coming off of the bye week,” said Lowery. “Credit to my receivers, they helped me out a lot and my o-line gave me a lot of time tonight. There’s a lot of differences and I’ve grown a good bit since the beginning of the year. I am just thankful. Coach Ganus coaches me hard, but he supports me.”
“I saw the quarterback roll out of the pocket and I was floating, looking for a receiver, and turned around and the ball was right there, even though I blacked out for a second and then I scored,” said Ludolff about his pick six. “I was pretty tired. We stepped up in big moments, but we’ve got to take out the explosive plays.”
Coach Ganus said, “I’m really proud of the kids. We have had some slow starts and we wanted to start fast tonight. We let down a little
but got stops. Corner fights hard. Those guys are a third or fourth round team. They are tough. Nothing but respect for Coach Campbell and those guys. That was a tough first round game and it was not easy.”
Talking about Lowery, Ganus said, “His first playoff game, the kid was lights out. The interception was on me. I wanted to be aggressive, but besides that play, he was near flawless and I am so proud of him. Typically the team is just as good as your quarterback and he’s shown Moxy all year and I am just very proud of him.
Ganus talked about Ludolff’s interception, “I have challenged him all week. I have been in his ear and he told me he had my back and he was going to make some plays. That house call was huge. It was his first high school touchdown.”
The Blue Devils advance to the second round of the playoffs for the fourth straight year. They improved to 9-2 on the season and will travel to Priceville on Friday night.
Moody's Josiah Dozier hauls in the touchdown catch. Credit: Johnny Sanders
Huskies fall to Opelika after late collapse in playoff thriller
By John Goolsby, Prep Sports Editor
TRUSSVILLE – It was a game of momentum — and on Friday night at Husky Stadium, it swung hard in both directions. After leading most of the game, the Huskies saw their season come to a stunning end, falling 27-21 to Opelika in the opening round of the Class 7A state playoffs.
Hewitt (8-3) looked to be in control for much of the night, powered by two long touchdown passes from Zach Benedict to Dylan Cope and a defense that shutdown Opelika (8-3) early.
The Huskies built a 21-6 lead midway through the third quarter and seemed poised to advance to the second round of the 7A playoffs. But a string of costly penalties and turnovers opened the door for Opelika, and the Bulldogs raced through it.
After Benedict’s 48yard touchdown to Cope gave Hewitt a 21-6 lead,
four personal foul penalties extended an Opelika drive that ended in a CJ Johnson touchdown, cutting the lead to 21-13 with six minutes remaining in the third quarter. Opelika then forced a punt and drove into scoring position again, but Reese Beasley missed a 43-yard field goal with just over a minute left in the third quarter. Early in the fourth, Opelika intercepted a Benedict pass and returned it to the Hewitt 15-yard line. Once again, the Husky defense bent but didn’t break. Opelika’s Beasley made a 32yard field goal that cut the Husky lead to 21-16 with 9:24 to play.
Hewitt’s offense stalled again, punting the ball away with 7:44 remaining. Opelika started from its own 38-yard line and mounted another drive, one that ended in controversy. The Bulldogs were awarded a 25-yard Whitt Cooper to Ja’lynn Washington touchdown by the offi-
cials to take a 22-21 lead after their two-point try failed. However, video replays appeared to show that Washington was out of bounds in the back of the endzone.
On Hewitt’s next drive, disaster struck. The Huskies fumbled and Opelika’s defense took advantage — scoring a safety to extend the lead to 24-21 with 5:01 remaining. Again, video replays appeared to show that Benedict was tackled at the one-yard line and not in the end zone.
The Bulldogs then returned the ball deep into Husky territory and drained more than four minutes off the clock, driving to the Hewitt 7-yard line before adding a Beasley 23-yard field goal, his fourth of the night, with 48 seconds left to extend Opelika’s lead to 27-21.
The Huskies’ final drive came up empty, and Opelika took over and Cooper knelt down for one play to drain the final three seconds off the clock to seal the win.
Greenwave’s Season Ends at Briarwood with 28-3 loss
By Henry Williamson, For The Tribune
BIRMINGHAM, Ala.
– The Leeds Green Wave wrapped up its season Friday night, falling 28-3 to the Briarwood Christian Lions in the first round of the AHSAA playoffs at Lions Pride Stadium. Leeds struggled to find rhythm on offense, finishing with only a field goal as the Lions controlled the game from the opening quarter.
Both teams battled defensively, but turnovers hurt the Green Wave early. A strong opening kickoff return from Taylon Gaiter set Leeds up near midfield, but shortly after, the drive ended with an interception by the Lions.
Briarwood capitalized immediately, connecting deep for a 47-yard touchdown reception to take an early 7-0 lead.
Leeds drove down the field again late in the quarter, moving the chains on runs and quick passes, but
failed to convert on fourth down after a dropped pass, resulting in a turnover.
Briarwood grew its lead in the second quarter. Despite passes being broken up by Javone McCrayer, the Lions strung together a drive and scored on a 41-yard touchdown pass to make it 14-0 with a few minutes to go in the half.
Leeds attempted to answer in the final minute.
After Head Coach Jerry Hood called timeout, Leeds successfully kicked a field goal with one second left in the half, cutting the deficit to 14-3 as the teams went to the locker room.
At the start of the third, Briarwood quickly responded with a 4-yard touchdown run, pushing the lead to 213.
The Lions’ defensive pressure caused problems for the Green Wave offense.
Leeds couldn’t gain yardage, and repeatedly had to punt after failing to pick up key first downs.
Briarwood added its final
score in the fourth quarter to secure the 28-3 victory, eliminating Leeds from the playoffs.
Post-game, Head Coach Jerry Hood spoke about his team’s effort and toughness, especially the seniors, despite the performance.
“More than their performance tonight, what I knew about this team is the injuries we had, our guys persevered,” Hood said. “We offer no excuses. That’s no excuse for tonight. We didn’t play well. They have the heart of a champion, and I’m proud as heck of how they fought.”
The loss closes the season for the Green Wave, who notched their sixth straight playoff appearance under Hood. For the seniors who played their last game in a Leeds uniform, it’s now about what’s ahead.
“We’re gonna rest up for a few days, and we’re gonna get in the weight room,” Hood added. “All these kids got a lot of experience this year, and we’ll see what we do next year.”
Hewitt, Springville shine at AHSAA State XC Championships
By John Goolsby, Prep Sports Editor
OAKVILLE – HewittTrussville, Springville, Moody, and Leeds represented Tribuneland at the AHSAA Cross Country State Championships at Oakville Indian Mounds Park on Saturday, with Tribune area runners turning in strong performances to close the 2025 season.
The Hewitt-Trussville girls came within a single point of a runner-up finish, placing third in Class 7A behind Vestavia Hills. The Hewitt boys finished fourth overall in a deep and talented 7A field. For the Lady Huskies, freshman Hadley Turner capped a breakout season with a fifth-place finish and a time of 18:54.05. Mary Durham (19:07.07) finished seventh, Leah Anderson (19:32.27) finished 15th, Natalie Wiram (19:51.99), and Bella Aycock (20:06.79) rounded out the top five as Hewitt placed five runners inside the top 35. Evelyn Robertson (20:09.9), Lily Armstrong (21:31.7), Elise Hansen (22:26.1), and Elizabeth King (22:54.6) also contributed to the Huskies’ performance. Turner, Durham, and Anderson earned All-State honors.
The Hewitt-Trussville boys placed fourth in Class 7A, led by a dominant top-
two showing from Noah Jordan and John Paul Amari. Jordan finished eighth overall in 15:59.2, while Amari crossed just behind in 16:08.9. Both earned AllState honors. Senior Gabriel Knox (16:27.9), Wyatt Moyer (16:43.1), and Laine Walker (16:49.5) rounded out the Huskies’ scoring five, with Stewart Nelms (16:53.5), Jackson Morris (16:59.4), and Fearing Mosley (17:29.9) also turning in strong races.
“Proud of both teams with how they competed all season,” said Hewitt head coach Matthew Michalke. “We came up a little short of our ultimate goals, but we’re pleased to again be among the top four in the state and have five All-State runners today.”
In Class 5A, the Springville Tigers turned in a record-breaking day at Oakville, with both teams earning their highest finishes in school history.
“Both teams finished higher than any Springville teams in school history,” said head coach Jonathan Ford. “The girls finished fifth today, led by Carmen McMaster with an eighthplace finish. The boys finished sixth behind Brayden Chandler’s eighth-place finish and school record time of 16:18.”
“Both teams had amazing years,” Ford added. “We have three seniors on the girls’ team and six on
the boys. Each one will be missed tremendously. Such a great group of young men and women who have set high standards for our program. They loved to run, but more importantly, they loved each other.”
Springville’s boys, led by senior Chandler, earned All-State honors. He was followed by Brayden Marlow (17:52.80), Van Stewart (18:07.10), Easton Gunnells (18:07.48), Jaden Hall (18:32.54), Aden Ruple (18:39.10), Jack Hutchinson (19:17.23), Jonathan Dowd (19:31.42), Alex Ford (20:11.68), and Henry Hutchinson (23:01.99).
On the girls’ side, senior Carmen McMaster led the way with an eighth-place finish in 20:05.0, earning All-State honors. She was followed by Elisabeth Hoffman (20:46.9), Kate Hale (22:12.4), Adalyn Seigman (22:16.8), and Lily Langley (22:16.8) to round out the Tigers’ scoring five. June Chandler (23:00.6), Blair Graydon (25:41.5), and Lucy Weichman (25:42.6) also contributed to the team’s strong showing.
Leeds and Moody each sent individual qualifiers to Oakville. Leeds senior Tyler Vandiver (19:15.38) and sophomore Ella Black (25:30.13) competed for the Greenies.
Leeds cross country coach Lance Higdon praised his senior leaders for their
impact on the program.
“Tyler is a multi-sport athlete — he plays football, soccer, and runs cross country. He’s a great athlete and leader who supports all our runners and encourages them during meets. Ella is a runner at heart. She competes in both cross country and track, and she’s mentally tough and very disciplined. We look forward to her leadership,
especially on the women’s side of our team. She has ambitions to run in college. They are both anchors to our program, and Tyler will be greatly missed as he graduates this coming May. We are proud of our team — our seniors have been great, and we will miss them. Roll Greenwave!,” Higdon said.
For Moody, Sarah Cathey (25:17.81) represented the
Blue Devils. Moody cross country coach Maggie Yerby is excited about her sophomore runner. “I am really proud of Sarah for qualifying for the state cross country meet two years in a row,” said Yerby. “She is only a sophomore, so I am excited to watch Sarah continue to improve as a distance runner during her high school career.”
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