Tribune
By Jakob Gurley
By Nathan Prewett, For the Tribune
Page 4
Pinson Council approves contract, sublease with Palmerdale Fire District
By Chris Basinger, News Editor
By Nathan Prewett, For the Tribune
BIRMINGHAM, Ala.
It has been a year of firsts for
as
owners Joey and Rachel Goshein recently celebrated their first year as managing partners and as members of
PINSON – The Pinson City Council approved a sublease and a contract with an amendment for services by the Palmerdale Fire District that allows for it to ex-
See PINSON, Page 4
After prolonged political lecture from Mayor Thomas, Springville Council approves pay raise for police
By Terry Schrimscher
New Leeds administration appoints board members in first official meeting
By Nathan Prewett, For the Tribune
SPRINGVILLE, Ala. –
LEEDS – The new Leeds city administration officially met on Monday night after their swearing in ceremony and organizational meeting was held last week.
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, the March 3 meeting began around 6:45 p.m.
afterward, Thomas said he just needed to air his frus trations because the council sometimes delays making decisions it needs to make. He discussed his motion to add unaddressed items from the February meeting to a proval. That approach was
By Chris Basinger, News Editor
As the meeting got underway, the council approved the minutes from the last meeting in February.
The meeting began with reports from council members. Councilor Sabrina Rose was the only one to give a report in which she read aloud a memorial proclamation honoring Cynthia Kelly Bonner, an educator who recently passed away. A visitation will be held on Nov. 14 at Gaston Funeral Home in Birmingham.
“She was a sweet lady,” said Mayor Eddie Moore. “She taught a lot of our children here in Leeds and she’ll be missed.”
During reports from department heads Fire Chief Chuck Parsons said that Leeds Fire & Rescue has received a $42,000 FEMA grant to replace supplies and equipment.
Following this was a discussion about Blount
Mayor Dave Thomas motioned 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
focus on city business.
challenged members of the council to raise their hands if they agreed never again to leave a meeting before the conclusion of business. No hands raised. Along the way, he said the council’s lack of leadership on salaries would be a burden on the city.
Many other cities in the prove non-controversial items with a single vote through a consent agenda, a procedural process used to
5
Human bones found by local dog are connected, coroner says From Tribune staff reports
County 911, a dispatch provider service. Parsons said that the city has been using it for the past four to five years but costs have gone up “dramatically” and projects them to go up even further in the near future.
“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-
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.
He said that options were being considered for a potential replacement. The current contract is effective until December 2026. Moore and Parsons assured that the city will have 911 services as they look for an
ing process, Thomas led the er project which will need further action for financial decisions. The council also renewed the city’s garbage collection contract with Waste Management.
Speaking to The Tribune
Foxhound Bee Company to bee-gin construction on new education center
Hewitt-Trussville Middle School students honor veterans through learning and celebration
By Chris Basinger, News Editor
By Jakob Gurley
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.
TRUSSVILLE, Ala. –
Sixth graders at Hewitt-Trussville Middle School came together this week to celebrate Veterans Day in a unique way—combining classroom learning with acts of patriotism and appreciation for those who have served.
The students, led by sixth-grade social studies teacher Kaitlin Bowman,
Birmingham-based Foxhound Bee Company is preparing to break ground on the 5,000 square foot facility
dressed in red, white, and blue and gathered outside to form a large “USA” for a commemorative photo. The event was part of the school’s recognition of the semiquincentennial anniversaries of the U.S. Army, Navy, and Marine Corps, aligning with the school’s broader Veterans Day observance.
“This was just taking it a step further for Veterans Day,” Bowman said. “Our
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.
social studies standards are U.S. history, and we cover World War I, World War II, and the Vietnam War. We really like to bring it into real life for the students and help them acknowledge veterans and their sacrifices.”
“When looking for a place to build our new beekeeping store, we continued to hear comments about how Irondale was doing great things,” said founder Adam Hickman.
“Everyone on the project seemed to speak highly of working with Irondale and its leadership. So, when we approached the
Earlier in the week, Hewitt-Trussville Middle School held a Veterans Day assembly featuring
alternative. Shortly afterwards the council passed a resolution appointing its members to several boards as chairs and co-chairs. These were:
Items from the February agenda were addressed individually. The purchase
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
LEEDS, Page 5
See SPRINGVILLE, Page 2
See VETERANS DAY, Page 5
See BONES, Page
Blount County man sentenced to life without parole for child sexual torture and abuse
Leeds High School freshmen take action to address rising school shootings
By Tanna McGuire
From Tribune Staff Reports
LEEDS, Ala. – Over 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.
BLOUNT COUNTY, Ala – A Blount County man will spend the rest of his life in prison after being convicted of multiple counts of sexual assault, torture, and abuse involving a 9-yearold girl.
Ronald Shane Crow, 24, of Trafford, was sentenced to life without the possibility of parole following his conviction in September 2025 on 13 counts, including two counts of sexual torture of a child under 12, first-degree rape, three counts of first-degree sodomy, and sexual abuse of a child under 12. He was also found guilty of distributing a controlled substance to a minor, two counts of unlawful imprisonment, indecent exposure, and menacing.
two days, the child disclosed that Crow had forced her to take pills, tied her up, and subjected her to sexual assault and torture. She also reported that Crow threatened to kill her if she told anyone.
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 schools.
Circuit Judge Christopher Abel presided over the case and handed down the sentence this week, which also includes a 99-year term for sexual abuse of a child, 365 days for indecent exposure and unlawful im-
prisonment, and 180 days for menacing. All sentences will run concurrently.
Current federal requirements mandate that schools perform lockdown or intruder drills; in Alabama, public schools are required to conduct two such drills per semester. However, Davis believes these measures are insufficient and is advocating for more frequent and comprehensive drills.
An investigation led by Sergeant Edward Hull with the Blount County Sheriff’s Office uncovered physical evidence inside Crow’s home, including duct tape with the victim’s DNA, black plastic bags, and methamphetamine. Photographs of a bedroom containing a pole matching the child’s description were also presented at trial.
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
The crimes stem from an incident on May 1–2, 2021, when the victim was left in Crow’s care for a weekend. The following day, the child’s stepfather found her agitated and hallucinating, reporting seeing snakes and spiders. She was taken to Children’s Hospital in Birmingham, where doctors determined she was suffering from methamphetamine and amphetamine toxicity. After being sedated for
“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
District Attorney Pamela Casey praised both the young victim and the investigative work that led to Crow’s conviction. “The crimes committed by Ronald Shane Crow are among the most horrific our community has ever seen,” Casey said. “This verdict and sentence send a clear message: in Blount County, we will protect our children and hold predators fully
See STUDENTS, Page 3
W. Bryant
A concept of the new education center in Irondale. (Foxhound Bee Company)
Pictured: Beatrice McCormick, Madilynn Johnson, and Amelia Davis.
Hewitt-Trussville Middle School sixth graders form the letters “USA” in red, white, and blue to honor Veterans Day and celebrate the semiquincentennial anniversaries of the U.S. Army, Navy, and Marine Corps. Photo credit: Ron Burkett
Leeds Mayor Eddie Moore. Photo by Nathan Prewett.
Ronald Shane Crow (Photo from The Blount County District Attorney's Office)
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The Chalkboard In My Kitchen
By Sean Dietrich
We have this place in our kitchen. It’s a wall. It used to be a door, some 102 years ago, when the house was built.
There used to be stairs outside this kitchen door, leading to the backyard. But the doorway has been sealed off. Now it’s just a big blank space in our kitchen.
The wall is painted with black chalkboard paint. So it’s basically a big blackboard, just like the kind you once used for working out algebra problems in front of your whole class.
We write things on this board. My wife and I. The writings always change.
Usually you walk into the kitchen, and you’ll just happen to notice that someone has erased the old writing, and added something new.
My wife writes messages like, “Welcome home, you’ve been on the road for two weeks, we missed you!”
“The dogs say ‘We ‘ruff’ you, Daddy.’”
“Happy birthday, Sean. I cannot imagine my life with-
out you.”
Little messages. Little words. Small words. But words carry power. Words are not lightweight.
In the mornings, as I make the coffee, standing in the kitchen with a bad case of bedhead, I stare at this chalkboard. And sometimes, in my half-waking state, I get lost in the chalkboard text. Gazing into the black-and-whiteness of it all.
During the Thanksgiving season, my wife writes messages to—well—to God, I guess. She writes things she is thankful for.
And as the coffee percolates, I shuffle over to the chalkboard for deeper inspection. Then, I and add my contribution to the lot.
The dogs see me squatting, writing with a small piece of chalk. Squatting, of course, puts me closer to their eye level. So, because I am hunching low, my dogs naturally assume I must have ham.
And they attack me.
Soon, I have lost my balance. I am now on the floor. Flat on my butt. With
three dogs swarming, trying to muzzle their way past the other, as if to say, “He’s mine!” “No, no! He’s mine!” “Get out of the way, everyone knows he’s mine!” Tails wagging. Butts wagging. Lots of panting. Lots of licking. All three of them are pressing their surgically cold noses on my bare skin. Each dog, wholly unashamed, devoid of ego. Fully vulnerable. Unconditionally honest with themselves, and with each other, in all regards. They are expressive, effusive, and rhapsodic with their demonstration of love. They love others like they’ve never been hurt.
And when I am thoroughly covered in dog saliva, which contains 98 percent water, a variation of proteins,
enzymes, and other compounds, such as lysozyme and immunoglobulins, which aid digestion and have potent antimicrobial properties, I start to laugh privately.
I’m still looking at the chalkboard. I’m still holding the piece of chalk in my hands. And I’m thinking about my life. About my people. About my little family.
I’m looking at the white hairs on the snouts of my dogs, and remembering when they were mere puppies, cradled in my ams.
I’m thinking of how many generations this 102-year-old house has seen—how many Thanksgivings, Christmases, birthdays, and how many funerals.
I’m thinking about how friends become our truest family. About how nothing in this world lasts forever except memories. About how thankful I am. About how my life has been guided by an unseen hand, steering me from self-destruction, guiding me toward real love. But mostly, I’m thinking about how it all went by so fast.
AARP salutes those who have served and still serve. We support our veterans and their families with information on career support, caregiving resources, community connections and more. To learn more, visit aarp.org/veterans
Suspect arrested after fatal shooting of Center Point woman in Pratt City
From Tribune Staff Reports
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. –
A 20-year-old Center Point woman was shot and killed Thursday afternoon in Pratt City, and police have arrested a Birmingham man in connection with her death.
The Jefferson County Coroner’s Office identified the victim as Bria Danielle McNeal-Williams, 20, of Center Point.
The shooting occurred around 12:15 p.m. on Nov. 13, 2025, in the 2000 block of 10th Street in northwest Birmingham. Birmingham Fire and Rescue respond-
ed to the scene, where McNeal-Williams was pronounced dead minutes later at 12:30 p.m.
According to the coroner’s office, she sustained fatal gunshot wounds during the incident.
The Birmingham Police Department initially responded to the location on a report of a burglary in progress. However, homicide detectives later determined that McNeal-Williams had not attempted to break into the residence, contradicting the initial call. Through further investigation, detectives learned that McNeal-Williams and
the suspect, Jeffrey Rogers, 25, of Birmingham, were involved in a dating relationship.
Police say Rogers remained on scene after the shooting and was taken into custody the same day. He has since been arrested and charged with Murder and Certain Persons Forbidden to Possess a Firearm.
Rogers is currently being held in the Jefferson County Jail with no bond.
The investigation remains ongoing. Birmingham Police urge anyone with additional information to contact the department’s homicide unit or Crime Stoppers.
Leeds High School posts improved score on 2025 state report card
From Tribune Staff Reports
LEEDS, Ala – Leeds
High School improved its overall rating on the Alabama State Department of Education’s 2025 report card, rising from a 79 in 2024 to an 83 this year.
The school showed gains in several academic measures. Academic Achievement increased from 41.69 to 47.64, while Academic Growth rose slightly from 90.24 percent to 91.01 percent. Leeds also recorded a higher graduation rate at
95.27 percent, compared to 89.4 percent last year.
ELA proficiency remained stable, with 29.58 percent of students scoring proficient in 2025 compared to 29.49 percent in 2024. Math proficiency for 2025 was 21.68 percent, and science proficiency was 39.16 percent. College and Career Readiness dipped slightly from 84.77 percent in 2024 to 83.78 percent this year. Chronic absenteeism improved, decreasing from 15 percent to 11.7 percent.
Leeds High School receives students from Leeds
Primary School, Leeds Elementary School, and Leeds Middle School, forming the full feeder pattern for Leeds City Schools.
“Congratulations to our incredible leadership, staff, and students on this achievement for Leeds City Schools. What you do matters every day,” the district said in a statement.
The school’s 2025 results reflect improvements across multiple indicators while maintaining steady ELA proficiency and continued growth in overall student outcomes.
Trussville City Schools earn all A’s on 2025 state report cards for third consecutive year
From Tribune Staff Reports
TRUSSVILLE, Ala. –
Trussville City Schools announced today that all five of its campuses earned an overall grade of A on the 2025 Alabama State Department of Education Report Cards—marking the district’s third consecutive year of across-the-board top ratings. The system also received an overall district score of 96, continuing its position as one of Alabama’s highest-performing public school systems.
The scores reflect the district’s mission of delivering “everyday excellence” across Academics, Athletics, and the Arts, and highlight the continued emphasis on providing students with a rigorous and well-rounded educational experience.
Individual school scores include: Cahaba Elementary School — 99
• Magnolia Elementary School — 98
• Paine Elementary School — 99
Hewitt-Trussville Middle School — 92
• Hewitt-Trussville High School — 96
Superintendent Dr. Patrick Martin said the results underscore the combined dedication of students, educators, and administrators across the district.
“The release of the State Report Cards for Trussville City Schools is just another indication of the wonderful work being done by our students, staff, and administration,” Martin said. “Our Board of Education has set an expectation of excellence for the school system, and I
am not surprised that each of our schools has received an ‘A’ on their report cards.” Martin added that the success is shared by the entire community.
“The community of Trussville should be very proud of the good work being done in each of our five schools,” he said. “Our students and staff should be celebrated for their efforts in making Trussville City Schools one of—if not the—best systems in the state of Alabama.”
The Alabama State Report Cards evaluate schools based on academic achievement, growth, chronic absenteeism, graduation rates, and other performance indicators. TCS leaders say the results affirm the district’s continued commitment to high standards and student success.
pand as it seeks to build a new station.
At the previous meeting on Nov. 6 the council held a first reading for extending the sublease of the property located on 5340 Miles Spring Road for ten years and to renew the contract for continued services. The agreement extended the space of the property.
“We are very blessed,” said Mayor Hoyt Sanders. “We have two fire districts. Glenwood actually is a third and has a small portion of our limit over on Narrows but we were very blessed when we formed to have two very capable, two very highly ISO-rated fire departments serving our city.”
Mary Graham, who is president of the Palmerdale Fire District Board, spoke during public comments and touched on one of the additions that the district is seeking.
“We hope very soon to be part of the Retirement Systems of Alabama, which is a long time coming,” she said. “Much needed. It’s going to make us a much more attractive fire department for recruiting and retaining high quality people.”
Graham later elaborated that the district requested the
sublease agreement to include additional space due to the age of the station that she said was “extremely old.”
The station currently boasts new trucks, which will need new bays.
She added that the district is growing and will need to meet the needs of nearby places such as the senior center
“You can’t wait until the growth happens to meet the need,” she said. “So, we are in need of a fire station facility there.
She said that they are working with the state, the county and the city to get more funding in order to realize the project.
“We’re just trying to keep up with our needs,” she said. “And anticipate the coming needs because, you know, we’re growing, so that many more people we have to service. Things are going good for the Palmerdale district.”
During public comments, Zoning Administrator Chris Sharit announced that the Church of the Highlands will conduct a wellness clinic mainly aimed at
seniors on Nov. 20 at 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The clinic will be held at the Rock School.
Diedra Ruff announced that her new film, “Turkey Creek,” was recently finished and is being edited. Once completed, it will be premiered at the Rock School, the same place that premiered her previous film, “Frienemy For Life”.
She also announced that a Christmas caroling night on Main Street will be hosted on Dec. 13 at 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
In other business the council:
• Approved a request for $3,000 by the Pinson Valley High School tennis team for equipment,
• Held a first reading for a resolution to pave a portion of Sunrise Drive in the amount of approximately $35,000 and Approved rezoning requests for properties on Sleepy Hollow Drive, Clay Palmerdale Road, Briarwood Circle and Davison Road.
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.
Cahaba
From front page
the COVID-19 pandemic and has since become one of the school’s most cherished events.
Principal Joy Tyner explained that the parade was first created as a way to honor veterans safely during a time when gatherings were restricted. “When COVID year hit, we didn’t know what to do,” Tyner said. “How were we going to honor our veterans when we couldn’t even be in close areas? So we came up with this idea — what if we all stood outside and asked them to ride by? And it turned into a beautiful tradition that we enjoy every year.”
The annual parade has continued to grow, drawing more veterans and community members each year. Even with a weather-related reschedule, Tyner noted that participation was higher than ever. “It’s gratifying,” she said. “Our kids think they’re important because they wanted to drive by and inspire them. I appreciate the community support so much.”
For Tyner, the event holds personal significance. She recalled former Cahaba students who have since enlisted, making the tribute even more meaningful. “It
seemed at the beginning there wasn’t a lot of personal ties,” she said. “But now I have students who were here for Veterans Day programs that are now serving.
“We started this since COVID, and it’s just become a tradition,” Fortenberry said. “I have military in my family — my son, my father-in-law, my brother — so it means a lot to me, and I try to instill that into my Fortenberry added thatcitement and the veterans’ appreciation makes it all worthwhile.
“Sometimes they feel like they’ve been forgotten,” she said. “This is our way to show them, yeah,
Veterans wave and smile as they pass by lines of cheering students holding flags outside Cahaba Elementary School during the Veterans Day Parade.
The Cahaba Elementary School Choir performs a patriotic song to honor local veterans during the school’s fifth annual Veterans Day Parade. Photo Credit: Jakob Gurley
er was U.S. Army and Vietnam War veteran Robert “Bob” Powell.
“Bob Powell delivered a powerful and heartfelt presentation centered on his experiences serving in the United States Army, including his time deployed in Vietnam with the 1st Aviation Division,” said a press release from the chamber.
“Sharing vivid memories of wartime conditions, brotherhood among soldiers, and the challenges faced by Veterans returning home, Bob offered attendees a rare and personal glimpse into the realities of military service during one of America’s most defining conflicts.”
“He also reflected on his broader military journey—
lessons learned, the pride of serving his country, and the enduring impact his time in uniform has had on his life and leadership. His message of courage, sacrifice, and gratitude deeply resonated with the audience as the Chamber paused to honor all who have served.”
Powell is now the Managing Director of the Mustang Museum of America and is a member of the chamber’s Board of Directors.
During the meeting the proceeds from the 2025 Odenville Car Show were presented to several local community organizations.
An overall $35,000 was raised at the event.
$21,000 was given to Saints Youth Athletics, while $10,500 was presented to the Odenville Police
Department and $3,500 to the Greater Odenville Chamber Scholarship Fund.
“The November meeting offered an uplifting atmosphere of fellowship, gratitude, and community connection,” said the press release. “The Chamber extends heartfelt thanks to all attendees, supporters, and partners who helped make this celebration of Veterans Day both memorable and impactful.”
The Greater Odenville Chamber of Commerce is planning its Annual Christmas Luncheon on Dec. 8 at 11 a.m. at Christ Church Branch Cove. Attendees are asked to bring a new, unwrapped toy for the Odenville Cops for Tots Program.
Nathan Prewett can be reached at nthomasp6@ gmail.com.
ferson County high schools in The Tribune’s coverage area. Overall scores shifted slightly across the four high schools — Center Point, Pinson Valley, ClayChalkville, and Shades Valley — with some showing improvement while others declined from the previous year.
the “Howlin’ Mad” Smith
Detachment of the Marine Corps League, who performed a live reenactment of the historic Iwo Jima flag-raising. The event was entirely student-led, with performances by the school band, student speakers, and a memorial video honoring local veterans. Following the assembly, the school hosted a reception for veterans and their families, allowing students and guests to connect more personally. Bowman said her students have been fully engaged throughout the week, writing thank-you notes to veterans and showing their appreciation through small gestures and participation. “It makes my heart very happy to know that they
still care,” she said. “Pretty much all of my students today had on red, white, and blue and were excited to do the picture and the assembly. It’s been a great year for their participation.”
The week’s events reflected not only Hewitt-Trussville Middle School’s commitment to honoring veterans but also its emphasis on helping students connect classroom history lessons to real-world acts of gratitude and respect.
Rose, Co-chaired by Moore
Shades Valley High School, which also houses the Jefferson County International Baccalaureate program, earned the highest score among the four schools for the second year. The school received a 75 for 2025, down from 78 the previous year. Academic Achievement declined from 47.81 to 44.88, and Academic Growth dipped from 85.54 to 77.33. The school posted a 92.53 percent graduation rate, slightly lower than 93.09 last year. College and career readiness remained strong at 85.77 percent.
The Shades Valley feeder pattern includes Irondale Middle School, JCIB Middle, Grantswood Community School, and Irondale Community School.
Pinson Valley High School scored a 66 for 2025, a slight increase from 65 last year. Academic Achievement rose from
16.93 to 19.34, and College and Career Readiness improved from 82.26 percent to 85.04 percent. However, Academic Growth declined from 62.61 to 29.27, representing one of the largest drops in the area. The school remained above 93 percent in graduation rate last year but did not report a change for 2025. Pinson Valley is a targeted support and improvement school. Its feeder pattern includes Rudd Middle School, Johnson Elementary, and Pinson Elementary. Center Point High School increased its score from 67 last year to 69 in 2025. The school remains a high-poverty, Title I school. Academic Growth improved from 68.61 to 71.08, while Academic Achievement remained low at 13.38, compared to 13.55 last year. Its graduation rate rose from 90.22 percent to 89.8 percent, remaining near 90 percent. ELA proficiency, however, fell from 6.58 percent to 4.49 percent. Feeder schools for Cen-
ter Point include Erwin Middle School, Erwin Intermediate, and Center Point Elementary.
Clay-Chalkville High School dropped slightly from 62 last year to 61 in 2025. Academic Achievement remained steady at 15.96 compared to 16.09 last year. Academic Growth declined from 64.56 to 63.01. The graduation rate was nearly unchanged at 85.55 percent, compared to 85.32 the previous year. College and Career Readiness, however, rose from 63.91 percent to 71.98 percent. ELA proficiency improved from 7.79 percent to 6.6 percent.
Clay-Chalkville’s feeder pattern includes ClayChalkville Middle School, Clay Elementary, Chalkville Elementary, and Bryant Park Elementary.
The Alabama report card system uses a combination of student proficiency, academic growth, graduation data, and college and career readiness to produce overall school scores.
accountable. Justice was served, and a dangerous man will spend the rest of his life behind bars.”
Casey also commended Investigator Hull for his diligence and compassion throughout the investigation. Crow’s life-without-parole sentence ensures he will never again be released.
• Street and Sanitation: Chaired by Cary Kennedy, Co-chaired by Rose Parks and Recreation: Chaired by Ryan Holtbrooks, Co-chaired by Eric Turner Police and Fire: Chaired by Turner, Co-chaired by Dale Faulkner
Permitting and Licensing: Chaired by Faulkner, Co-chaired by Holtbrooks Library: Chaired by
Finance Committee: Chaired by Moore, Cochaired by Kennedy and Turner
Afterwards Moore said that the city is working to “smooth bumps” in the administration to balance the check books with a new accounting software. He also addressed policies regarding licensing and getting permits.
“As we all know, our city’s been embroiled with difficulties in getting license
and permitting,” Moore said. “And I know the rules are tough but we want to change the perception for the citizens of Leeds. You build a house, you build a room, you build a fence – all it takes for a homeowner to get things done. We want to make that process a little smoother.” He went on to express his hopes for improvements in the policy.
Kennedy notified the public that all of the interior cameras at City Hall have been removed, with only the exterior cameras
still installed. Kennedy cited a concern with what he said was a lack of privacy with an estimated 40 cameras having been inside the building.
“You couldn’t go to the restroom without someone seeing you went to the restroom,” he said. “And that’s over. That craziness is over. There are security cameras outside, but the overreach is over.”
One person spoke during public comments. Tom Townsends advocated for a pickleball club to be formed
since the construction of the pickleball courts in Leeds were relatively recently completed. He hoped to expose the public to pickleball and generate revenue for the city. Leeds City Council meetings are 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.
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By Jeff Poor, Opinion
Creatures of Montgomery will often boast how Alabama politics is nothing like national politics. Hyper-partisanship is not present on Goat Hill like it is on Capitol Hill, and for that reason, state government is functionally superior to the federal government. In some ways, that is true. Republicans and Democrats still have their differences, but they are not a must-see cable news spectacle like our national politics. It also helps that Alabama is dominated by one-party rule. Even if Democrats wanted to put up a fight, they do not have the numbers. Therefore, they are forced to resort to using parliamentary tactics in the state senate as their only effective means of opposition.
Think of American politics like a pendulum that sways in the direction of the political ideology of the moment. It isn’t linear but sways in all different directions. Yet, its natural state is to achieve a balance in which gravity dictates its position. In the early 2000s, after 9/11, it swung in a pro-American, post-Cold War direction led by neoconservatives, who were able to argue that U.S. interventionism was in the country’s best interest.
However, the 2006 midterms and later the 2008 election of Barack Obama were a correction for swinging too wildly in the neocon-led direction. With Obama came a push for bigger government. Americans felt it primarily in the health care arena.
The 2010 Tea Party wave, and, to some de-
o pinion
Jeff Poor: 0 to 60 in 430 days
gree, the election of Trump in 2016, were reactions to Obama. Since 2018, the swings have been much shorter. The 2018 midterms and the election of Joe Biden in 2020 were the course correction to Trump’s first term. The second Trump election in 2024 was the reaction to the Biden years. What’s next will be determined by how the remainder of Trump’s second term goes, and if Democrats can put forth an effort to capitalize. The point is, if you plot the swings in American politics out on a map, you
can see it generally orbits around one central location. It never precisely lands on that point, however. There is an unseen gravity that always draws voter behavior to it. In Alabama, we don’t really have that phenomenon on an ideological level. In theory, the pendulum should still swing. If plotted, the political shifts should center around a different location on the maps, with much shorter, gentler shifts. But that hasn’t been how it goes. Since Ivey took the helm in 2017, the corrective action seems to be her and the
state’s desire to have a governor who isn’t embarrassing the state, as was the case with three of the prior six governors, Robert Bentley, Don Siegelman and Guy Hunt. Ivey sought to right the “ship of state” when she inherited the office after Bentley’s resignation, and she seemed to have done what was expected of her. Nine years later, it feels like an overcorrection. It is not that Ivey is a “do-nothing governor.” She has had her fair share of accomplishments, but as the longest consecutive-serving governor in Alabama histo-
ry, her list can seem a little underwhelming to the casual observer. Could Tommy Tuberville be a reaction to this? In other words, is this the natural correction to the slow-and-steady trajectory of the last decade? Assuming Tuberville wins next November, and he is the prohibitive favorite, it would not be a wild assumption to expect him to be more active than Ivey has been, especially since COVID. Yes, Ivey has not embarrassed Alabama with a bombshell scandal. But the same problems persist —
lackluster public education, gridlock on the state’s major thoroughfares, multi-decade prison and criminal justice insufficiencies. Day one for a potential Tuberville administration could be very busy.
We will be going from zero to 60 in early 2027. But can Alabama handle that? The thing about the current governor is that we live under a system that the powers that be in the state have grown accustomed to. The bureaucracy practically runs itself. The Alabama Legislature has not been asked to take on many heavy lifts by this governor. When she does ask for something, she has manufactured her own system of a hurry-up offense through the special session within the regular session, which she used to get the gas tax increase, an economic incentives package and COVID relief ARPA funding appropriations passed into law.
Then she returns to her regular routine of sporadic ribbon-cutting ceremonies to show she is still on the job. “Governor Tuberville” will likely be a much different program.
What will either make or break Tuberville is how the good ol’ boy network that has dominated Alabama since the end of Reconstruction will react to changes to a system that has been in place since Ivey was first sworn in. A new governor will be a central component of a much-desired acceleration. However, will Montgomery welcome change, or will it have difficulties adjusting from what, for some, has been a very comfortable status quo?
c a L enda R
LBK Auditorium
Enjoy discussing this month’s featured American Girl, Kaya (1764)! Participants will also play a themed game and make a craft together.
● 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 Coun-
cil 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.
American Girl Club is for those who enjoy learning about history alongside the popular book series. Each month we will discuss the featured girl’s life and time period. Participants are encouraged to read a book from her series to be able to contribute to the discussion. Each meeting will also include games, a craft, and a light snack.
5K - 5th Grade Students. Registration is Required.
Crazy 8’s Math Club
Tuesday, November 25
4:00pm - 4:45pm Trussville
LBK Auditorium
35126, USA
(All ages)
Friday, November 21st at 10 AM
Join us for Storytime for Growin’ Beans with Ms. Allison on Friday, November 21st at 10 AM. Our theme is being Thankful! We’ll read books, have fun, do a craft, & have a snack. Storytime is designed for pre-K children, but all ages are welcome.
Ramen & Relax
Fri Nov 21st
4:00pm - 5:30pm
Pinson Public Library, 4599
Pinson Blvd, Pinson, AL 35126, USA
(Teens)
Friday, November 21st
4 to 5:30 PM
Classified
● Leeds City Council Meet-
ings: 1st and 3rd Monday of each month at 6 p.m.
● Moody City Council Meet-
ings: 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.
Join Crazy 8’s Math Club, where you’ll build stuff, run and jump, make music, make a mess - it’s a totally new kind of math club!
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Chill after school. Enjoy warm ramen, fun board games, & watch some anime in a super relaxed atmosphere!
Defying Craftivity Kit
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WATER DAMAGE CLEANUP & RESTORATION:
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Call (205)533-8664 SERVICES SELLING aRV, Tractor or Golf Cart?ADVERTISESTATEWIDE or by region in over100 Newspapers,reaching over1 millionreaderseach week!Run your ad in our ClassifiedNetwork forjust$210 perweek! Make one callto this newspaper (participatingAla-SCANnewspaper) or call1-800-264-7043 to findout how easyitistoadvertisestatewide!
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Adult D&D: College Edition
Friday, November 21
4:00pm - 5:30pm Trussville Cahaba Room
D&D for 18-25 year olds
NEW AUTHORSWANTED! Ourpublishing staffwill help you self-publishyour ownbook. FREE author submission kit! Limitedoffer!Why wait? Call now:1-877-567-9754
This program meets twice a month.
2adjoining funeralplots at Jefferson Memorial Gardensin Trussville.Located in thegardenofThe Last Supper, shaded close to theroad. Very reasonably priced.Call205 910-8139.
Open to first time Crazy 8’s Math Club attendees in Kindergarten - 2nd grades. September Themes: Week 5: Pixel-palooza Week 6: Daring Darts
Preschoolers at Play
Wednesday, November 26
10:30am - 11:30am Trussville
Twoprime-located cemetery plots(Section76A,plots 5& 6) in theGardenofLove at JeffersonMemorialGardens.$4,750 forBOTHplots or BO -contact BobCardwell@ (205) 4106006. Will split transfer fee.
LBK Auditorium
Twocemeterylotsfor sale at JeffersonMemorialGardens in Trussville.For information pleasecallTim Cash at 256225-0347.
Join us for a short circle time followed by free play at several themed stations set up around the large auditorium.
AFFORDABLE TV &INTER-
nancingavailable.CallSafe Step 1-844-871-6175
Sat Nov 22nd
10:00am - 4:00pm
Pinson Public Library, 4599 Pinson Blvd, Pinson, AL 35126, USA (Adults)
November 17th - 22nd
GoGo.Liveand ageyour way. Gethelpwith rides, groceries, mealsand more.Memberships startaslow as $1 perday.Available 24/7nationwide. BBB Rated A+ Business. Call GoGo to getstarted.1-844-952-3266
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Get ready to defy gravity! Pick up your Defying Craftivity Kit just in time for the second Wicked movie. It’s packed with a craft, delicious snacks, & other Ozdian goodies. Don’t miss this delightfully wicked treat! Pickup any time between November 17th - 22nd. Kits are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Supplies are limited.
●Trussville City Council Meetings:2nd and 4thTuesday of eachmonthat6 p.m.,
CityCouncil Annex
●Trussville BoardofEducation Meetings:3rd Monday of eachmonthat6 p.m.
TCSCentral Office
A small amount of water can lead to major damage in your home. Our trusted professionals dry out the wet area and do repairs to protect your family and your home's value! If you have water in your home that needs to be dried, Call 24/7: 1-833-879-1371 Have zip code of service location ready when you call!
●ClayCityCouncil Meetings:2nd and 4thTuesday of eachmonthat6 p.m.
Omaha Steaks Wines. 12 world class wines (and bonus gifts) for ONLY $79.99 (plus s/h.) Save $160! 12 new wine selections plus a FREE $25 Omaha Steaks E-reward card every three months. Cancel anytime. 100% guarantee! Call 1-888-536-6102 and mention code AGJF002 or visit www.GetOSWine.com/ sip364
storytimeinthe library auditorium withstories,songs bubbletime, andlotsoffun!
●Yarn Manglers: Thursday, July 25 at 2p.m.- Knitters and crocheters, join us for fellowshipand creativity!
●Parks and RecTrivia: Thursday,July25at6 p.m.
●ClassicCinema: Friday, July 26 at 2p.m Come and watchaclassicmovie in the library auditorium!
●PinsonCityCouncil Meetings: 1stand 3rdThursday of eachmonthat7 p.m.
●CenterPoint City Council Meetings:1st and 3rdThursday of eachmonth, at 6:30 p.m.
We Buy Houses for Cash AS IS! No repairs. No fuss. Any condition. Easy three step process: Call, get cash offer and get paid. Get your fair cash offer today by calling Liz Buys Houses: 1-877-3857131
●ArgoCityCouncil Meetings:2nd and 4thMonday of eachmonthat5 p.m.
When you want the best, you want Omaha Steaks! 100% guaranteed and delivered to your door! Our Butcher's Deluxe Package comes with 8 FREE Omaha Steaks Smash Burgers ONLY $89.99. Call 1-866-487-1716 and mention code 79797NYH or visit www.omahasteaks. com/Deluxe2828
Pinson Public Library
●SplashBashatPinson
AFFORDABLE TV & INTERNET. If you are over
Bicentennial Park:Thursday, July 25 at 4p.m.- It’stimeto saygoodbyetoanother wonderfulSummerReading Program!Enjoy free access to theSplashPad, crafts,food trucks,& so much more!
●GlowParty:TeenFinale: Thursday,July27at4 p.m. -Celebrate theend of another successful teen summer readingprogram duringour Glow PartyTeenFinale. Enjoysnacks,games,music,& otherglow-in-the-darkactivities!
LONG DISTANCEMOVING: Call todayfor aFREEQUOTE fromAmerica’sMostTrusted Interstate Movers.Let us take the stressout of moving!Speak to a RelocationSpecialist, call844925-3534
Are you between the ages of 18 & 25 and want to play D&D? Did you age out of the teen D&D but don’t wanna play with the old fogies in the Adult D&D? Then this is the group for you! Dungeons and Dragons is a classic tabletop roleplaying game that encourages creativity and cooperation. The players form a party, go on quests, explore ruins, and (probably) save the world. Registration for the event is required as space is limited.
American Girl Club
Monday, November 24
5:00pm - 6:00pm Trussville
WATER DAMAGE CLEANUP &RESTORATION: Asmall amount of watercan lead to majordamageinyour home. Our trustedprofessionals dryout the wetareaand do repairstoprotect your familyand your home’s value! If you have waterinyour homethatneedstobedried,Call
A special playtime program for preschool-aged children. Circle time will begin at 10:30, followed by free play at several themed stations around the large auditorium.
NET. If you areoverpayingfor your service, callnow fora free quoteand seehow much you can save!1-866-816-3535
DirecTVSatellite TV Service
BINGO Night with Dignity Memorial Mon Nov 24th
5:30pm - 7:00pm
Pinson Public Library, 4599
Donate your car,truck,boat, RV andmoretosupportour veterans! Schedule aFAST, FREE vehiclepickup andreceive atop taxdeduction! Call VeteranCar Donations at 1-877-724-3049 today!
Grown ups are asked to stay with their child and travel with them as they play with the different selections of toys.
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Best for ages 2-5 years old. No Registration Needed.
Pinson Blvd, Pinson, AL 35126, USA (Adults) Monday, November 24th, 5:30 to 7 PM
Jacuzzi Bath Remodelcan installa new, custom bath or shower in as little as one day. Fora limitedtime,wavingALL installationcosts!(Additional termsapply. Subject to change andvarybydealer.) Offerends 6/30/24. Call 1-877-205-0836
Storytime For Growin’ Beans with Ms. Allison:
NEED NEWFLOORING? Call todayschedulea FREE in-home estimate on Carpeting& Flooring. Call Today! 1-877-5682248
Thankful Fri Nov 21st
10:00am - 11:00am
UPDATE YOUR HOME with Beautiful NewBlinds & Shades.FREEin-homeesti-
Pinson Public Library, 4599 Pinson Blvd, Pinson, AL
We’re playing classic BINGO! Win fun prizes & enjoy light refreshments. Our friends at Dignity Memorial are sponsoring this month’s event & providing prizes. They will also share a brief presentation & be available for questions. Drop in between 5:30 to 7 PM to play.
Replace your roof with thebest looking andlongest lasting material steel fromErieMetal Roofs! Threestylesand multiplecolorsavailable. Guaranteed to last alifetime!LimitedTime Offerupto50% offinstallation +A
●Springville City Council Meetings:1st and 3rdMonday of eachmonthat6 p.m.
●IrondaleCityCouncil Meetings:1st and 3rdTuesday of eachmonthat6 p.m.
Consumer Cellular - the same reliable, nationwide coverage as the largest carriers. No long-term contract, no hidden fees and activation is free. All plans feature unlimited talk and text, starting at just $20/ month. For more information, call 1-844-358-5270
●Leeds City Council Meetings:1st and 3rdMonday of eachmonthat6 p.m.
HEALTH/BEAUTY
●Moody City Council Meetings:2nd and 4thMonday of eachmonthat6 p.m.
ATTENTION OXYGEN THERAPY USERS! Dis-
Trussville Public Library
●SummertimeStories: Thursday,July25at9:30 and 10:30 a.m. -JoinMs. Alicia fora summer-themed
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.
re atherapist-ownedphysical therapy practice idingquality, hands-on care. Our dedication to clinical lence is key to our successfulpatient outcomes.
TherapySouth Trussville 1483 GadsdenHighway, Suite 116 Birmingham,AL35235 (205) 655-1921
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
Clinic Director:MikeStallworth, PT, DPT
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.
TherapySouth Clay/Pinson 6723 Deerfoot Parkway, Suite 105 Pinson, AL 35126 (205) 681-5131
Clinic Director: JasonGrammer,PT, DPT
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.
How can we help you move better? Our services include:
Orthopedic and Manual Physical Therapy
Post-Operative Rehab
Hand Therapy Services(Trussville)
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.
Functional Dry Needling Injury Prevention
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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.
Scan the QR code to schedule an appointment. No referral needed!
o bitua R y
Gary Speegle
october
Our
He
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His
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C alendar
March 9 at 1:30 p.m. - Extensive ACT review class
Joseph Eastis
july 4, 1939 — november 12, 2025
● Irondale City Council Meetings: 1st and 3rd
of each month at 6 p.m.
● Leeds City Council Meet-
ings: 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
● Chess Club: Monday, March 10 at 5 p.m. - Learn the basics, cool tricks, strategy, opening, and tactic in chess from a ChessKidsNation coach
to pick up our “Dahl’s Delightful Kits.” Packed with exciting games, activities, & crafts inspired by Dahl’s beloved stories
Larry Levi Willingham
● Storytime for Growin’ Beans with Ms. Allison: Friday, March 7 at 10 a.m.
Joseph Felix “Papa Joe” Eastis, 86, of Huntsville, Alabama, passed away peacefully on November 12, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and friend, Joe’s warmth, humor, and generous spirit left an enduring mark on everyone fortunate enough to have known him. Born on July 4, 1939, in Birmingham, Alabama, Joe was the son of W.F. and Vida Cantrell Eastis and grew up alongside his siblings Jack, Tom, Denise, and David.
On September 18, 1959, Joe married the love of his life, Martha Wadsworth, beginning a partnership for 66 loving years. Together they built a family rooted in love, laughter, and support, raising their two children, Bill Eastis and Debra Eastis King, who were the pride and joy of his life. He adored his three grandchildren and two great grandchildren. Joe was immensely proud of his
● Books & Brews: Monday, March 10 at 7:15 p.m.
- An evening Adult Book Club meeting at Ferus Artisan Ales
● Ukulele Club: Tuesday, March 11 at 6:30 p.m. - Beginner ukulele club
● Preschoolers at Play: Wednesday, March 12 at 10:30 a.m. - Join us for a short movement and story with Ms. Alicia followed by free play with various toys
● Children’s Storytime: Thursday March 13 at 9:30 and 10:30 a.m. - Join Ms. Alicia for stories, songs, bubble time, and lots of fun
● Homeschool Hangout: Thursday, March 13 at 1 p.m. - A place for homeschool teens to hang out, socialize, and play games
Michael Thomas
- Our theme is Smell. We’ll read books, have fun, do a craft, & have a snack
● Goat Yoga: Saturday, March 8 at 1 p.m. - Announcing “Goat Yoga” with our friends at Olive Valley Farms & our host, “Yoga with Kayla.” This will be a day of yoga, laughter, & the adorable company of friendly goats! Registration required
● Tech Tuesdays: Tuesday, March 11 at 10 a.m.Drop by for helpful tech tips and tricks with Mr. Keith! Please bring your device with you if you are able
● Geek Guild D&D (Teens): Tuesday, March 11 at 4:30 p.m. - We’re playing Dungeons & Dragons! Delve into the Forgotten Realm in this fantasy Role-Playing Game.
Thomas, 72, of Warrior, passed away Thursday, November 13th, 2025. Graveside services will be Wednesday, November 19th, 2025, at 10:00 AM, at Jefferson Memorial Gardens. Rev. Larry Smith will officiate. Services under the direction of Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home and Gardens.
● Young Adult D&D: Friday, March 7 at 4 p.m.D&D for ages 18-25
● ACT Prep: Saturday, March 8 at 10 a.m. - Extensive ACT review class
● Cult Classic Cinema: Thursday, March 13 at 5:30 p.m. - An evening highlighting the other half of Trussville’s Core Collection of movies–Cult Classics. This month’s feature: “Little Shop of Horrors” (1986) Pinson Public Library
● ACT Prep: Sunday
● Dahl’s Delightful Kits: March 3-8, All week - Join us as we celebrate the imaginative world of Roald Dahl! Stop by the library
Mike is preceded in death by his parents, Bill and Mae Nell Cox. Survivors include his wife, Linda A. Thomas; sister, Patricia Hagendorfer (Billy); and several nieces, nephews, and dear friends. Before his retirement, Mike's profession was in carpentry, building many houses for families to one day make their home. He had a passion for Alabama football and will be dearly missed by his family.
● Junior Jamz: Wednesday, March 12 at 10 a.m.
- Bring your little kiddos to jam at the library! We’ll provide a variety of musical instruments for the children to explore
● Let’s Jam!: Thursday, March 13 at 4 p.m. - Are you learning to play an instrument or have you been playing for years? Come jam at the library!
Elizabeth Jordan
Caleb White’s legacy honored in Second Annual Tip Off Classic
By Henry Williamson, For The Tribune
PINSON, Ala. – The second annual Caleb White Tip Off Classic brought teams across Alabama to Mike Dutton Gymnasium on Saturday, honoring the late Pinson Valley senior point guard who passed away in August 2023. Besides the games that were played, the day-long event acknowledges the young athlete who made a significant impact on others and the community.
Caleb White was a firstteam all-state selection and one of Alabama’s best players before his sudden cardiac arrest during a pickup game. He was known for his strong work ethic and positive personality. He was loved by many. White’s No. 1 jersey is hanging up inside the gym where his legacy will forever inspire others.
“It means everything to me, seeing his legacy still be alive,” said Cameron White, Caleb’s older brother. “Even though he’s not here anymore, his legacy is still here and I’m just appreciative for Coach Barber and all the guys for repping him, and making sure his name is still alive.”
Caleb’s mother, Charletta White, spoke about the community’s support. “Just knowing that his legacy still lives on and the impact he had on the Pinson commu-
nity and this school, and his basketball team, it means everything to me.”
The event was about Caleb and multiple teams showed up to play the game that he loved on his special day. Four Tribuneland teams participated.
Clay-Chalkville remained undefeated with a 70-46 win over Tarrant.
The Cougars jumped out to an early lead and kept themselves ahead. Demar Hinton’s 19 points fueled the Cougars. He heated up the third quarter with 10 points and buried shots from outside. Jadon Watts ended up with 13 points and Tavoras Larkins pitched in nine. With the win, ClayChalkville has improved to 4-0 on the season.
“This is awesome, that’s the reason we will be in this every year,” Clay-Chalkville head coach Chris Richardson said. “Caleb White was a great guy for this community, and really loved basketball. To support and grow this event is very good for basketball in our state.”
The Pinson Valley girls took on Spain Park, defeating them 44-14. The Lady Indians dominated the third quarter 16-0, holding the Jaguars scoreless as they continued to increase their lead. They were in control the entire game, and are now with a record of 3-2 on the season. Somer Ryan
Addison was the team leader in scoring with 11 points. Tamia Williams finished with nine points, and Raijah Tinsley contributed seven.
“It’s an honor to play for Caleb White,” Pinson girls head coach Tamara Gills said. “When I came here, I used to see and watch him. To see how hard he worked during practice and how he carried himself outside of basketball, in the hallways at school. It’s an honor to be here playing for him.”
Pinson Valley’s boys defended home court with a 49-36 win over Spain Park in front of a packed crowd. JP Pritchett was the top
scorer for the Indians with 18 points. He hit a variety of shots and drew charges throughout the game. RJ Addison followed with 12 points, producing on both ends with steals and transition buckets, while Elijah Allen provided physical presence in the paint, scoring 6 points. The Indians advance to 2-0 on the season. They are without senior guard Quay Lynch, who is recovering from a car accident and expected to return later in the season.
“Getting a win for Caleb and having all these teams out here, it’s a beautiful atmosphere,” Pinson Valley
head coach Darrell Barber said. “Last year we played Oxford, a great team and we lost, so it’s always good to get a win against a great Spain Park team.”
Barber, who was Caleb’s coach, spoke about keeping his former player’s memory alive. “From day one I said I was gonna keep his legacy alive. This showcase is only growing, we have a lot of competition out here today and I just want to continue to honor that kid. He was such a special part of myself, this community, this school, this world. He just means a lot to us and he’s still here with us.”
Shades Valley and Gadsden City capped off the event in a rematch of last season’s playoffs. The Mounties fell to the Titans 58-45 and were handed their first loss of the season. Rayshun Lambert helped the Mounties go on a run to cut the lead to 27-26.
But Gadsden City answered back and pulled away in the fourth quarter. Jeremy Chatman had 17 points and led the team. Rayshon Lambert dropped in 11, and Colton Jeffers scored eight. The Mounties record on the season is now 3-1.
Curtis White, Caleb’s father, reflected on what the event means to the family.
“Being connected with these guys, it makes my heart full.
Coach Barber has done a wonderful job for keeping his legacy going. Caleb routinely reached out to these guys. Those guys that are playing now, they actually knew Caleb.”
Despite the score and outcome of the games, the day reminded everyone that Caleb White’s impact is more than just the game of basketball.
“The life that he lived was one of leadership, one of sustainability,” Curtis White said. “He was a great kid, and I think if you ran into him or you met him, then you fell in love with him. It doesn’t surprise me that all these people are here for him.“
Caleb White's family (left to right), Cameron (brother), Charletta (mom), Darrel Barber (coach), and Curtis (dad) standing by Caleb's locker. Credit: Johnny Sanders
Cougars dominate Titans
By Britney Bailey, For the Tribune
CLAY– The ClayChalkville Cougars (12-0) continue their playoff run after ravaging Gadsden City in the second round at home in Cougar Stadium Friday night, 44-7. Running back Josh Woods opened the door for the Cougars early on in the first quarter at the 8:54 mark with a 3-yard touchdown run, putting Clay up 7-0 af-
ter a Joseph Del Toro PAT. Quarterback Aaron Frye found the endzone for himself seconds into the second quarter with an 8-yard rushing touchdown to up the Cougar lead to 14-0. Just five minutes later at the 6:06 mark, Frye added another touchdown to his resume, this time for 9 yards.
Gadsden City managed to slip into the endzone with under a minute left in the half, their only score of the night. Del Toro ended the
half for the Cougars with a 28-yarder as time expired, for a halftime score of 24-7. The Cougars added on to their lead in the third after Frye found Jacari Johnson for 12 yards, upping the Cougar lead to 30-7 after a failed conversion attempt. Woods reared his head once again late in the third with 2:50 to go. Running back Aaron Robinson finished off the night for Clay on a 1-yard run early in the fourth, for a 44-7 final.
Coach Stuart Floyd said he was encouraged by the defensive response after giving up 26 points to Jackson-Olin the week before.
“We heard the chatter over the weekend. We didn’t play well defensively last week,” Floyd said. “Our players and coaches did a great job of responding the right way — being able to adjust, adapt, and simplify.” Clay-Chalkville will host Homewood (11-1) next Friday in the 6A quarterfinals.
Moody blasts Priceville 60-14 to advance to third round
By Johnny Sanders, Sports Editor
PRICEVILLE, Ala – The Moody Blue Devils traveled nearly two hours to Priceville on Friday night for a round two matchup against the Bulldogs that saw many explosive plays and a dominant defensive effort by the visiting team, leading to a 60-14 blowout win.
Moody got the ball first and, within just a few seconds, Jalijah Rutledge raced 99 yards on the game’s opening kickoff to replace the zero on the scoreboard with a seven and put Moody up by a touchdown after just one play. “I knew we needed to come out and score fast to get the lead, said Rutledge. “It’s all about starting fast, like coach Cam says. Start fast and finish faster.”
The Moody defense would hold Priceville on the next drive, but the offense stalled deep in Bulldog territory. This set Ryan McPherson up for a 31-yard field goal that made it 10-0 Mood with 7:48 to play in the first.
At the 3:52 mark of the first, Jake Lowery would
toss a pop pass to Josiah Dozier, who would take it 35 yards for the score, making it 17-0 Moody. The teams would trade punts and, after Moody got the ball back, Le’Kamren Meadows would find paydirt on a six-yard touchdown run, capping off a long drive. Jagger Ludolff would run in the two-point try to increase the lead to 25-0 with 6:57 to play in the second.
Approximately two minutes later, the Bulldogs would use a clever double pass play to get their first points of the game from 34 yards out and closed the gap to 25-7 at the 5:06 mark of the second period. On their second offensive play of the next drive, Moody’s Aidden White took one of those famous Lowery pop passes 84 yards and added to the Blue Devil lead with 4:48 to play before the break, making it 32-7.
Another dominating drive by the Moody defense led to the Blue Devils getting the ball back in good field position. A few plays later, Aubrey Walker took
a reverse the distance for a 14-yard score, making it 39-7 at the half.
Not much changed in the third quarter as Kevin James threw his name into the scoring hat with an explosive 56-yard run just minutes into the period. The score would jump to 46-7, all Blue Devils.
Lowrey would find Rutledge for an 80-yard score with 2:35 to go in the third and Juju Hill would cap off a long Moody drive with a three-yard touchdown run to cap off Moody’s scoring before Priceville added a touchdown with 3:26 to play, making it a final of 6014.
Lowrey finished the night 15 of 19 for 313 and three touchdowns. Kevin James led the way running the ball with five carries for 76 yards and a touchdown. Rutledge had three catches for 110 yards and a touchdown to go with Dozier’s four catches for 71 yards and a touchdown. The defense dominated Priceville, holding them to 62 yards of offense in the first half and less than 150
total for the game. “We had a great week Sunday through Thursday and we locked in mentally and physically, and it translated into tonight, “said defensive lineman Henry Smith. “It means a lot to be part of this team. We have been doing this since January, working out at 6:00 am. The belief comes from the work as we say.”
Offensive lineman Fisher Brinegar said the following, “Great week or preparation everywhere. We just have to keep playing our game. Every week is us against a
faceless opponent. Without this game, I don’t know what I would be doing. I get to come out and hit people for free and I love it. It is everything to us, coming out here every Friday night.”
“I am super proud of our guys,” said Coach Ganus “We’ve got great leadership and great seniors. We had a great week of practice. In the playoffs, it’s win or die and we came out and put on a great performance against a good team. They were 2-8 last year and for them to be 8-3 and hosting us in the second round this
year, that’s just great for them. Coach Parker is doing a great job. You’re never going to play perfect, but we played a complete game tonight. It goes back to the way we practice, so we will see if we can rinse and repeat this year.”
Moody improves to 10-3 on the season, their fourth 10-win season in team history, all under Ganus. They will take on a Briarwood Christian team that is hitting their stride at the right time, picking up a dominant 42-7 victory over Russellville in their round two matchup. Ganus is no stranger to playing the Lions, as he was a quarterback at Chelsea and Briarwood was a big rival. “We had one close game when I played them in football,” said Ganus. “It was closer in basketball. Growing up, a lot of kids I knew in my neighborhood went there. I am very excited for that matchup. They are playing really good right now. They’re physical and well-coached and their kids play hard. They won’t quit and we will have our hands full.”
Clay defeats Gadsden City. Credit: Jake McCune
Moody's offense ready for the play against Priceville.
Credit: Johnny Sanders
Tribuneland Playoff Preview 2025: Round 3
By Johnny Sanders, Sports Editor
TRUSSVILLE, Ala
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Round three is a comfortable place for Tribuneland as we have had a team in the quarterfinals on a fairly regular basis. This year is no different as we have two teams who are gaining momentum at a freight trainlike pace, heading for dates in Protective Stadium on the first week of December. The Moody Blue Devils and Clay-Chalkville both earned blowout wins on Friday night and punched their tickets to the next round of the AHSAA playoffs. Moody went on the road and smashed Priceville 6014 while Clay-Chalkville hosted Gadsden City and whipped them 44-7.
BOYS
Hewitt-Trussville (3-1)
• 11/6: Huskies 47 Gadsden City 59 11/10: Huskies 82 Prattville 53
• 11/14: Huskies 61 Mortimer Jordan 45
• 11/17: Huskies 69 Moody 39
Clay-Chalkville (4-0)
• 11/6: Cougars 54 Tuscaloosa County 44 11/11: Cougars 70 Thompson 57
• 11/13: Cougars 54 Ramsay 47 11/15: Cougars 70 Tarrant 46
Pinson Valley (2-0) 11/13: Indians 76 Center Point 35
• 11/15: Indians 49 Spain Park 36 Shades Valley (3-1)
• 11/7: Mounties 43 Huffman 39
Here is your guide to round three of the playoffs for the two remaining Tribuneland teams. Moody Blue Devils (102) vs Briarwood Christian Lions (7-5): Both teams are coming off of blowout wins as Moody got the 60-14 win over Priceville and Briarwood won 42-7 over Russellville. The record for the Lions is deceiving as they are hitting their stride late in the season. They will present a speedy wide receiver group as a challenge to the Blue Devil defensive backfield, but the quarterback will surely be under duress as Cam Mallory, Henry Smith and company will put pressure on him. Moody’s offense, scoring almost 40 points per game,
will surely give the Lions’ defense all they can handle with their own speedy wide receiver group that will include Josiah Dozier, Jalijah Rutledge, Aidden White and Aubrey Walker to compliment the running game with Le’Kamren Meadows and Kevin James. Jake Lowrey will look to stay hot against the Briarwood defense as well.
Where: Bill Morris Stadium
When: Friday, November 21, 2025 at 7:00 pm
Key Stats: Moody scores 39 points per game and allows 18; Briarwood scores 25 points per game and allows 21.
All-Time: Briarwood holds a commanding 11-5 record over Moody.
Last Meeting: Briar-
wood won 35-14 in 2017 Common 2025 Opponents: Leeds (Briarwood lost 29-28 on 9/26 and beat them 28-3 in round 1; Moody beat Leeds 25-22 on 10/10); Corner (Briarwood lost 42-27 on 10/3; Moody beat them 49-21 in round 1)
What’s on the Line: A semifinal matchup against the winner of the Scottsboro at Fairview game.
Clay-Chalkville Cougars (12-0) vs Homewood Patriots (11-1); While the Cougars got the aforementioned 44-7 win over Gadsden City on Friday, Homewood had their hands full with Hartselle, getting the narrow 31-24 win. Aaron Frye and company will look to keep things going and continue the dream season for
the Cougars. Possible Mr. Football Corey Barber will continue to get his numbers and Joshua Dobbs will look to continue getting better as the season progresses. Quinton Lowe, Colton McIntyre, Xavier Starks, Isaiah Brown and the rest of the Cougar defense will be challenged by hotshot Homewood quarterback Kaleb Carson, but this group of ball hawks should be up to the task. While the game will be about getting a win and advancing, there will be extra motivation as the Cougars will be playing the final game in their current stadium.
Where: Jerry Hood Field at Cougar Stadium
When: Friday, November 21, 2025 at 7:00 pm Key Stats: Clay allows
Tribuneland Hoops Scores
11/10: Mounties 86 Bessemer City 45
• 11/13: Mounties 44 Vestavia 36 11/15: Mounties 46 Gadsden City 58
Center Point (1-3)
• 11/10: Eagles 63 Woodlawn 79 11/13: Eagles 35 Pinson 76 11/14: Eagles 81 Cornerstone 55
• 11/17: Eagles 56 Fultondale 61 Leeds (2-0)
• 11/13: Greenwave 87 Oak Grove 29
• 11/17: Greenwave 66 Pell City 57
Moody (0-2)
11/6: Cougars 57 Tuscaloosa County 29
• 11/11: Cougars 44 Huffman 39 11/13: Cougars 49 Ramsay 44
Pinson Valley (3-2)
• 11/6: Indians 30 Homewood 45 11/8: Indians 34 Anniston 38
• 11/11: Indians 60 Fultondale 28 11/13: Indians 59
11 points per game and they score 48; Homewood allows 13 points per game and scores 38.
All-Time: ClayChalkville holds a 3-1 record over Homewood
Last Meeting: ClayChalkville beat Homewood 41-0 in 2020 Common 2025 Opponents: Mountain Brook (Homewood lost 25-24 overtime on 9/26; Clay won 49-0 on 10/23); Jackson-Olin (Homewood won 49-0 on 9/19; Clay won 49-26 in round 1); Pell City (Homewood won 28-14 in round 1; Clay won 52-9 on 9/5)
What’s on the Line: A semifinal matchup against the
• 11/13: Blue Devils 63 Sardis 64 11/17: Blue Devils 39 Hewitt 69 Springville (1-1) 11/11: Tigers 74 Briarwood 62 11/13: Tigers 49 Mortimer Jordan 65
• 11/8: Huskies 52 Park Crossing 61 11/8: Huskies 28 St James 66
GIRLS Hewitt-Trussville (2-4)
• 11/6: Huskies 46 Gadsden City 39
• 11/7: Huskies 57 Trinity 53
• 11/10: Huskies 49 Prattville 72
• 11/14: Huskies 58 Mortimer Jordan 61
Clay-Chalkville (3-0)
winner of the Muscle Sholas at Mountain Brook game
Darrell Barber and Chris Richardson talk at the Caleb White Tip-Off Classic. Credit: Johnny Sanders
