Buster the Bus teaches Jefferson County students school bus safety
By Jakob Gurley
By Chris Basinger, News Editor
CLAY, Ala. – Jefferson County Schools is once again using a colorful mascot to teach young students about school bus safety.
During the month of October, Buster the Bus will visit elementary schools across
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
Page 3
After prolonged political lecture from Mayor Thomas, Springville Council approves pay raise for police
By Terry Schrimscher
Mayor Choat bids farewell, Mayor-Elect Short outlines vision for Trussville’s growth
The Springville City Coun cil took a detour Monday night before it returned to unfinished business held over from the Feb. 17 meet ing. After an extended work session and a short break, the March 3 meeting began around 6:45 p.m. derway, the council ap proved the minutes from the last meeting in February.
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
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 ing Teddy Roosevelt, Jesus, and Socrates along the way.
Many other cities in the prove non-controversial items with a single vote through a consent agenda, a procedural process used to reduce the need for discussion and lengthy meetings.
By Jakob Gurley TRUSSVILLE, Ala. –
Trussville celebrated a major leadership transition at this year’s State of the City event, where outgoing Mayor Buddy Choat reflected on his years of service and welcomed incoming Mayor-elect Ben Short. The program, held at the Trussville Civic Center, highlighted the city’s accomplishments and an optimistic outlook for the future.
focus on city business.
as mayor and on the City Council for nearly two decades, thanked city employees, council members and community partners for their support throughout his tenure.
At one point, Thomas challenged members of the council to raise their hands if they agreed never again to leave a meeting before 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.
“It’s been the best job I’ve ever had,” Choat said. “We’ve got great people in this city, and that tells me Trussville has a bright future.”
Although not technically a filibuster, the lecture was designed to prolong the meeting allowing Thomas to air his displeasure at the lack of
Choat, who has served
Choat also expressed gratitude to his wife, Ginny, for her support during his time in office and praised
“The council had every opportunity to redress the error but chose otherwise, wanting to move on, showing their frustration and effectiveness of the filibus-
Foxhound Bee Company to bee-gin construction on new education center
Shelby County jail achieves 100% NIJO compliance, maintains top accreditation status
From Tribune Staff Reports
SHELBY COUNTY,
Ala.
– The Shelby County Jail has once again achieved the highest possible rating from the National Institute for Jail Operations (NIJO), earning 100% compliance during its latest accreditation audit, Sheriff John Samaniego announced on October 7, 2025. The accomplishment allows the facility to maintain its Level 1 Accreditation, the top status awarded by the organization.
By Chris Basinger, News Editor
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.
Birmingham-based Foxhound Bee Company is preparing to break ground on the 5,000 square foot facility
The most recent review marked Year 3 of the facility’s current accreditation cycle and included an evaluation of 134 core operational guidelines. These standards focus on critical areas of jail management such as inmate healthcare practices, access to religious services, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance, facility safety, inmate pro-
in the coming weeks, which will serve as an expansion from its current location in Hardware Park. In addition to educationopportunities 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
gramming, and staff training requirements. NIJO’s guidelines are legal-based and drawn from case law to help ensure jails operate safely, constitutionally, and consistently while reducing liability for local governments. With this audit, the Shelby County Jail has now maintained NIJO accreditation for nine consecutive years, spanning three full accreditation cycles. Level 1 facilities must demonstrate not only compliance, but also consistent documenta-
tion and proof that policies are being followed through daily practice.
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.
Sheriff Samaniego commended the men and women who work inside the jail, saying their dedication made the achievement possible.
“Our jail deputies demonstrate the highest standard of professionalism, integrity, and compassion in one of the toughest environments imaginable,” Sa-
“Everyone on the project seemed to speak highly of working with Irondale and its leadership. So, when we approached the
See BEES, Page 3
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.
the city staff for their dedication to public service. He commended Short’s experience on the council and said he was confident in the incoming administration.
“Ben has a lot of experience with our city,” Choat said. “I know he’s going to do a great job leading this administration.”
“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.
Short, who officially takes office later this month, joined the event for an interview segment in which he discussed the transition and Trussville’s financial
Speaking to The Tribune
position heading into 2026.
The city recently closed its fiscal year with a $2.5 million surplus, overcoming a budgeted deficit of nearly $1 million.
“We wanted to show that we did exactly what we said we would — finish strong and end in the black,” Short said. “Now we can begin our administration on level ground.”
Short said his administration plans to continue
See TRUSSVILLE, Page 5
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. Items from the February agenda were addressed individually. The purchase See SPRINGVILLE, Page 2
Human bones found by local dog are connected, coroner says From Tribune staff reports
in final meeting for old administration
By Nathan Prewett,
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 – A meeting on Monday night will be the final for Mayor David Miller and councilors Johnny Dutton, Angie Latta and DeVoris Ragland-Pierce.
Outgoing Pinson councilors honored ahead of new administration
Leeds High School freshmen take action to address rising school shootings
By Nathan Prewett, For the Tribune
By Tanna McGuire
PINSON – A meeting of the Pinson City Council on Thursday night was the last for outgoing Mayor Robbie Roberts and councilors Clinteshia Irvin, John Churchwell and Glenda Kirkland.
As the month of October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month all members, including City Attorney Shane Black, wore pink ahead of the annual Pink Out event on Oct. 17.
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.
Following the public comments section Mayor Elect Hoyt Sanders read aloud several proclamations honoring the outgoing council members.
Irvin was recognized for what the proclamation said was her dedication to the city after she was elected to fill a vacancy in May 2022.
“Thank you to the city of Pinson for allowing me to serve,” she said. “Thank you for helping me to learn about the city. I remember when (former mayor Joe Cochran) kidnapped me and
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
said we were going to have lunch at Ken’s and three hours later and I knew every loop and loop in Pinson.”
She went on to thank parents and others in the community.
schools. 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.
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 bare minimum,” Davis said.
“Schools should take intruder drills as seriously as they do fire or tornado drills.” Johnson echoed this
Churchwell was recognized for serving on the council for more than 21 years. He had worked for the Social Security Administration before retiring and ran unopposed several times. He expressed his appreciation to the city and pointed out
his family who were present, namely his wife, sister, children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Elected in August 2020, Kirkland was acknowledged in the proclamation for her decision to withdraw from the election runoff as it would cost the city money to do so.
“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
“And whereas, (Kirkland) in a final selfless act withdrew from the run-
See STUDENTS, Page
See PINSON, Page 4
IRONDALE,
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 Pinson Council wears pink for breast cancer awareness. Photo by Nathan Prewett.
Mayor-elect Ben Short delivers his remarks during the 2025 State of the City event at the Trussville Civic Center
Outgoing Mayor Buddy Choat speaks at the 2025 State of the City
Steven Tyler Whitehead (Photo from the Jefferson County Sheriff's Department)
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
Every day, actually. The Camino sort of lives inside me. Wherever I go. Whatever I do. I think about it.
I remember who I was as I walked the ancient trail. I remember those 40 days. Living out of a backpack. Hardly any possessions. Two T-shirts. One pair of boots. I had a fiddle on my back.
I remember the camaraderie along the way. I remember how we made friends with fellow pilgrims. Deep friendships. Pilgrims from every nation. We could not speak each other’s languages, but it didn’t matter. Love is its own language. Whenever we were together—all us pilgrims— there existed no Americans, no Russians, no Jews, no Muslims, no nationalities between us. No Black, no white, no political persuasion. We were just people. People with basic needs. Who needed water, shoes,
good sleep, and a secluded place to pee.
And, of course, we had to eat. Which wasn’t always easy.
There was the time we were all miles from the nearest village, without enough food. So we all pooled our lunches together, sitting beneath an old oak tree.
A man from Switzerland brought a bottle of wine. A woman from Brazil had a loaf of bread. A guy from Italy had anchovies. We passed around the fish and loaves, and gave thanks. We ate all we wanted. There was enough leftovers to fill 12 backpacks.
There was the blind man I met on the trail. Walking toward the nearest village. Shuffling along on a highway, and yet, pausing to give me—me, a Big Dumb American—some encouraging words.
There was the time I was injured, when my wife and I parted ways on the trail. I compelled her to leave me, to find her own Camino. To find her own truth out there. I would follow her by cab. I cried as she walked away. Because I wished her so much joy. So much fortune.
And yet, this act of separation felt so much like
an allegory. She and I walk together. We’ve walked through life together for 22 years. But someday, one of us will have to walk without the other.
Eventually, I decided to walk the trail alone. And as my injuries kept getting worse, as I felt more alone with each step, something happened. A group of Australians prayed for me. A group of Brazilian women laid hands on my legs and prayed fervently in Portuguese. And I realized I wasn’t alone. People were everywhere. And they all seemed to care about me. And as I reached the cathedral of Santiago de Compostella, it dawned on me.
I was never alone. I hit my knees and wept. It wasn’t a spiritual experience. It was a human one.
These people on the road to Santiago. They WERE the Camino.
I embraced all these people, whom I’d met along the way. We stood beneath the church spires of Santiago, we all held each other and wept in a massive group hug.
We loved each other, somehow. Although we had once been strangers. There was love.
We couldn’t explain why we were all crying. Nor why we were looking into each other’s eyes like family members do. But we were all feeling it. Whatever “it” is.
It was the feeling that this life isn’t what you think it is. It’s not about what you thought it was about.
Neither is life about what you believe, nor about what you don’t believe. It’s not about what you gain. It’s not about what you lose.
It’s about people. It’s always been about people.
It’s about those lying in hospitals, racked in pain upon their beds. About those stuck inside Holman Correctional Facility, trying to remember what it means to be loved.
It’s about those in nursing homes, who feel isolated and unseen. About the cashier at your local gas station. About your mailman. It’s about moms and dads. Kids and babies. About pregnant teens, dog rescuers, truck drivers, and failing students. Rich people. Poor people. About you and me.
You are the gift. You are my gift. You are the Camino. And I just wanted you to know that.
L oca L / R egion
Cahaba Elementary participates in Turn Trussville Pink initiative
From Tribune Staff Reports
TRUSSVILLE, Ala. —
Cahaba Elementary proudly participated in the annual Turn Trussville Pink initiative, joining schools, businesses, first responders, and residents across the city in raising awareness for Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Each October, the campaign unites the community in support of those affected by breast cancer and serves as a visible reminder of hope, education, and early detection.
This year’s observance held special significance on Cahaba’s campus as students and staff honored Ms. Candace, a beloved member of the school’s Child Nutrition Program (CNP).
Ms. Candace has faced her breast cancer journey with remarkable courage, positivity, and grace, and the school community rallied around her with an outpouring of love and encouragement.
“It was a meaningful day of kindness and solidarity,” the school shared. “We are proud of our students and
staff for standing with those who are fighting, surviving, and remembering, and especially proud to honor Ms. Candace, who inspires us every day.”
Hallways, classrooms, and common areas were filled with pink as students and faculty dressed in support of Ms. Candace and others impacted by the disease. Administrators said the day was not only about raising awareness, but also about teaching students the power of empathy, unity, and community support.
Irondale to host National Night Out on Oct. 23
From Tribune Staff Reports
IRONDALE, Ala. – The City of Irondale is inviting residents to gather with local first responders for National Night Out 2025, scheduled for Oct. 23 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at The Hill, located at 5415 Beacon Drive.
The free annual event is part of a nationwide initiative designed to strengthen relationships between law enforcement and the communities they serve. Organizers say the evening will focus on crime prevention awareness, public safety education and positive interactions between families and first responders.
Attendees will have the opportunity to see police vehicles, fire trucks, rescue boats, drones and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office helicopter up close. Chil-
dren will be able to meet police officers, firefighters, 911 dispatchers, Sparky the Fire Dog and Irondale Police K-9s Lima and Kali. The city will also offer free hot dogs, ice cream, games and activities throughout the evening.
“National Night Out gives our first responders a chance to build relationships with the community that go beyond emergency calls and traffic stops,” Mayor James D. Stewart, Jr. said in a statement. “When kids can climb on a fire truck or meet a police officer face-to-face, those interactions develop the level of trust needed for a stronger, safer community.”
National Night Out, first introduced in 1984, now includes more than 17,000 communities nationwide.
Irondale officials say the city’s participation reflects
a continued commitment to fostering safer neighborhoods through engagement, visibility and communication.
The event is hosted by the Irondale Police Department, Irondale Fire Department and Irondale 911 Communications, with support from Mayor Stewart and the city administration. The night is geared toward families, first-time attendees and residents who want to learn more about safety resources available in their community.
City leaders say they hope the event will serve as a reminder that public safety is a partnership between officers and the people they serve.
For more information, residents may contact Irondale City Hall or follow the city’s official social media pages for updates.
Rep. Danny Garrett Honored with inaugural ‘Champion for Children’ award
From Tribune Staff Reports
BIRMINGHAM – State
Rep. Danny Garrett of Trussville was awarded the inaugural Caroline Novak Champion for Children award during the annual A+ Opportunity Summit in Birmingham, recognizing his leadership in advancing statewide education reform. Sen. Arthur Orr, R-Decatur, was also honored as a co-recipient.
The award, presented by A+ Education Partnership and Teach for America, is named for Caroline Novak, the founding president of A+, whose work helped shape decades of education advocacy in Alabama. The summit, held at Red Mountain Theatre, spotlighted the state’s academic progress while outlining continued goals for student achievement.
Garrett, who serves as House Education Budget Chairman, was recognized for his role in passing the Renewing Alabama’s Investment in Student Excellence (RAISE) Act, a key component of a broader
effort to improve public education. Recent legislative initiatives — including the Literacy Act, Numeracy Act, RAISE Act, and CHOOSE Act — have focused on strengthening reading, math instruction, and classroom standards.
In a statement, Garrett said he was honored by the recognition and pointed to measurable gains in student performance.
“Alabama is the only state to show improvement in pre-COVID math scores and one of two states to show improvement in both math and reading,” Garrett
said. “We have a long way to go, but we have advanced in a very short period. The Literacy Act, Numeracy Act, RAISE Act, and CHOOSE Act are making a difference.”
Organizers said the award was intended to highlight state leaders whose work has produced tangible improvements for students.
The A+ Opportunity Summit brings together educators, policymakers, and advocates to share data, discuss challenges, and continue charting a path toward stronger academic outcomes in Alabama.
Clay-Chalkville’s Laila Williams and Garland Stoudemire named rotary student and teacher of the month
From Tribune Staff Reports
TRUSSVILLE, Ala. —
The Trussville Daybreak Rotary Club has recognized Laila Williams and Garland Stoudemire of ClayChalkville High School as the October Student and Teacher of the Month, awards.
Laila Williams, an active student leader, participates in the Pep Squad, Key Club, Debate Club, DECA, and FCCLA, and also serves on the morning announcements team. A consistent honor roll student, Williams said she enjoys listening to music in her free time.
Williams praised her history teacher, Mr. Stoudemire, for his engaging and supportive teaching style. “He is one of the best teachers I have had during my time at Clay-Chalkville High School,” Williams said. “Not only is he succinct and efficient at his job, but he is kind and rather funny. He is one of the more refreshing and insightful history teachers that I have had compared to ones who are more boring. He is integral to my success because he was a shiny red apple during my junior year when it seemed I was surrounded by rotten ones.” Mr. Stoudemire was honored alongside Williams for his dedication to his students and positive influence within the classroom and school community.
Photo from Trussville City Schools
Photo from The Trussville Daybreak Rotary Club
The Trussville Tribune
Trussville City Schools unveils new unified branding and logo system
Trussville, AL – Trussville City Schools unveiled a new unified visual identity this month following a yearlong branding project aimed at strengthening consistency across the school system.
Pinson
From front page
off thereby saving the city several thousand dollars in 2025,” said the proclamation as read by Sanders.
Man charged in triple homicide that claimed life of Center Point 5-year-old
From Tribune staff reports BIRMINGHAM, Ala.
mac and cheese, box stuffing, rice, soup, boxed potatoes, canned corn, canned yams, canned gravy, boxed pasta and water can be dropped off at City Hall on 4410 Main Street from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Donations will be taken until Nov. 14.
The district partnered with Knight Eady, a Birmingham-based creative agency, to develop updated logos, seals, and brand guidelines that reflect the system’s values and history. According to the presentation, the rebranding process included interviews, focus groups, and conversations with students, faculty, alumni, city leaders and community members. The result is a coordinated visual system designed to support “everyday excellence in academics, athletics, and the arts.”
Irondale
From front page
identified and apprehended suspects who allegedly used online platforms to solicit or exploit minors.
Working in partnership with Covenant Rescue Group and with assistance from the Trussville Police Department, undercover investigators posed as minors during online interactions.
The coordinated effort led to the arrests of seven suspects, all of whom now face felony charges, including Electronic Solicitation of a Minor and Traveling to Meet a Minor for an Unlawful Sex Act. Each suspect is being held on an $80,000 bond.
“Our top priority is protecting the most vulnerable members of our community — our children,” said Chief Paul Kellogg of the Irondale Police Department. “The dedication of our investigators and the cooperation with our law enforcement partners demonstrate our ongoing commitment to ensuring that individuals who prey on minors are identified, arrested, and prosecuted.”
“These arrests send a clear message — if you attempt to prey on children, we will find you,” said Jared Hudson, CEO of Covenant Rescue Group. “We’re thankful for the Irondale Police Department’s dedication and for Trussville PD’s
The new central office seal features the district’s founding year, its educational philosophy, and a lantern symbol honoring Trussville’s first high school.
Each elementary school also received a distinct mark: Cahaba’s historic building remains at the center of its seal, Magnolia is represented by a magnolia bloom, and Paine’s logo incorporates a husky pup within a bold “P.” The middle and high school logos now share a more unified look, anchored by an updated interlocking “HT.”
A 25-year-old Birmingham man has been charged in the deaths of Eric Ashley, Jr., Akira Berry, and Landon Brooks, who were shot and killed while driving last summer.
Jacorrian McGregor, 25, has been charged with capital murder (two or more persons) and is being held in the Jefferson County Jail with no bond.
On July 13, 2024, Ashley (28), Berry (28), and Brooks (5) were shot in their car in the 1700 block of Indian
The refreshed Husky athletics logo and approved color palette complete the systemwide branding package, which district leaders say will protect the brand and ensure consistency moving forward.
Bones
From front page
following a DNA analysis of the bones, though authorities still do not know the identity of who they belonged to.
The coroner’s office has reported that multiple missing person cases have been ruled out by the DNA analysis as the identity of the remains.
The skull was discovered by a homeowner on the shoulder of the roadway next to his residence near the 1300 block of 5th Place NW on Aug. 20, 2024.
assistance. Operations like this show what’s possible when law enforcement and organizations like ours work hand-in-hand to protect the most vulnerable.”
Detective Batson, lead investigator with the Irondale Sex Crimes Unit, emphasized that this operation is part of the department’s broader initiative to combat internet crimes against children and raise awareness about online safety.
“We will continue to pursue anyone who uses the internet to exploit or endanger children,” Batson said. “We also encourage parents and guardians to remain vigilant about their children’s online
Investigators believe the skull was moved from its original location, which remains unknown, to the property by the homeowner ’s dog.
activity and to report any suspicious behavior immediately.”
The coroner’s office per-
Those arrested include: Tommy Usher III, 29, of Birmingham, Isaiah Burton, 22, of Birmingham, Michael Burdett, 23, of Anniston, James Harrison, 64, of Birmingham, Juan Esteban, 42, of Tarrant, Martin Flores, 43, of Leeds, Derrick Tuck, 40, of Birmingham.
Anyone with information about suspected child exploitation is encouraged to contact the Irondale Police Sex Crimes Unit at 205-9511382 ext. 2021 or submit an anonymous tip through Metro Alabama Crime Stoppers at 205-254-7777.
Summer Drive, just outside of Center Point.
Officers found the vehicle with multiple bullet holes in the side of it wrecked in the front yard of residence.
Kirkland later said, “I just want to thank everybody who voted for me and supported me. I’ve enjoyed serving the citizens of Pinson and I will truly, truly miss all of you, and you all have my number.”
All three victims were pronounced dead at the scene.
Police believed it was a targeted shooting and that the suspect fled the scene in a vehicle.
And lastly Roberts was noted for being elected in 2012 to Place Three and served as pro-temp until he was elected Mayor in 2024 after the death of Cochran. He went on to thank each member individually, as well as the city staff.
Following an investigation, BPD’s BPD’s Crime Reduction Team partnered with the U.S. Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force and the State of Alabama
“The last couple of years has been quite an interesting time period there in the history of the city and with myself,” he said. “I really had no aspiration to be the mayor; I’ve always enjoyed my time as a city councilman.”
During his commentsson basketball player Quay Lynch recently suffered
ed to make a full recovery, though he will not be able to participate in any games in
Jacorrian McGregor
Pardons and Parole to apprehend McGregor on Tuesday, Feb. 24 in the 900 Block of Von Dale Lane.
Sometime after the council passed two items on the agenda they heard from Pinson Public Library Director Allison Scanlan, who briefly spoke on the passing of Jason Baker, saying that he was a friend and expressed her condolences to the Trussville Public Library and community.
She also gave a reminder that the Boo Bash Halloween event is set for Oct. 24
ment Chief Taylor Hancock then gave a report for the
tal calls, 137 of which were EMS and two were MVAs.
There were 17 “fire-type” calls that included fire
expected to survive, according to family members, as investigators continue to piece together what led to the violence.
formed an autopsy on the skull and determined that the victim had been shot.
The victim, 18-year-old cheerleader Kimber Mills, was shot in the head and leg during a shooting just after 12:24 a.m. on Oct. 19 in the 7900 block of Highway 75 North. She was rushed to a local hospital, where relatives say she has remained in critical condition.
The same dog found the second bone, a left tibia, on Dec. 12, 2024.
cial s roaming range, but searches of the areas frequently visited have not turned up any additional remains.
asking for continued prayers as they prepare for difficult decisions in the coming days.
Notice is hereby given that Hand Service Company, Inc., 110 Greenbrook Dr., Hazel Green, AL 35750, has completed all work on the Well #17 and #18 Project 3-010-23 and 3-011-23, for Trussville Gas and Water.
“She was only given days,” Mills’ sister, Ashley Mills, said in a statement. “Once they declare her brain dead, she will be an organ donor. She is so loved by this amazing community. We’ve had over 100 people show up to the hospital for her.”
Family members said they have been overwhelmed by support and are
All persons having any claim for labor, terial or othe is in connection mmediately d contractor and 127 Main 35173.
According to the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, deputies arrived at the scene to find three shooting victims — a 21-year-old man, an 18-year-old man and Mills, the 18-year-old woman. A fourth victim, a 20-year-old woman, had already been taken to a hospital by private vehicle. Palmerdale Fire & Rescue, Center Point Fire & Rescue and Trussville Fire & Rescue responded to provide emergency medical aid.
Investigators say a ver-
alarms and false alarms, and three residential fires.
Hancock announced that the district now has state retirement benefits for members.
Man sh Valley
“It’s a huge milestone for us,” he said. “It will truly change the landscape for recruitment and retention of employees and it has taken me this whole year that I have been here to get this stuff together.”
From Tribune staff reports
JEFFERSON COUNTY, Ala. The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office is investigating after a man was shot at a bingo hall near Grayson Valley early Monday morning.
He also said that the district will establish a fundraiser to replace Station One and that Rep. Allen Treadaway has proposed to help.
Deputies responded to the bingo hall, located at 5712 Chalkville Road, shortly after 5 a.m. where they found a male employee suffering from a gunshot wound.
Afterwards Chante Jordan spoke in public comments and asked the council to consider moving her fitness class back into the Rock School Center and help in purchasing exercise equipment.
In other business the council:
Center Point Fire and Rescue responded to the scene and transported the victim to UAB Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
According to the sher-
Annexed a property on Hitching Post Drive and • Approved a new HVAC system for $13,695. 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.
Leeds PD help ide retail
From Tribune staff reports
LEEDS, Ala. – Police in Leeds are asking for the public’s help in identifying an individual believed to be involved with an organized retail theft investigation.
“The Leeds Police Department requests the public’s assistance in identifying this individual,” officials said on social media “He is a suspect in an Organized Retail Theft Investigation.
bal and physical altercation escalated and led to gunfire. The suspect, 27-yearold Steven Tyler Whitehead, has been arrested and charged with murder. He is being held without bond at the Jefferson County Jail, and additional charges are expected, according to the sheriff’s office.
If you recognize this individual or have any information about this crime please contact Crime Stoppers of Metro Alabama.” CrimeStoppers of Met-
The Trussville Police Department confirmed it assisted at a secondary scene around 12:45 a.m. in the 1500 block of Gadsden Highway. Officers there performed life-saving measures on one of the victims until Trussville Fire personnel arrived and took over. Jefferson County remains the lead investigative agency.
The case remains under active investigation, and authorities are asking anyone with information to contact the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office at 205-325-1450 or Crime Stoppers at 205254-7777.
Photo from The Irondale Police Department
Shooting
From front page
Trussville recognizes top student performances after posting strong ACAP results
From Tribune Staff Reports
TRUSSVILLE,Ala –
Trussville City Schools reported continued academic gains this year, with the latest Alabama Comprehensive Assessment Program results showing the district once again outperforming statewide averages in every subject. The Trussville City Schools Board of Education recognized the achievement and honored students who earned perfect scores during its most recent meeting.
Statewide, 56.2% of students were proficient in English Language Arts, 33.4% in math and 38.9% in science. Trussville students posted significantly higher results, with 81% proficiency in ELA, 62% in math and 71.1% in science. The district also improved from 2024, when students scored 76.6% in ELA, 60.3% in math and 66.7% in science.
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Councilor Eric Turner retained his seat after running unopposed.
the district, helping students learn how to safely board, ride, and exit their buses.
Kevin Snowden, Director of Transportation for Jefferson County Schools, said the program provides “an opportunity for young kids to learn school bus safety, how to get on and off the bus safely, and how to cross the street.” He added, “It’s very important. It’s life or death.” Snowden offered practical safety tips for students, including arriving at the bus stop at least five minutes early, looking both ways before crossing the street, and never running into traffic.
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Buster the Bus, operated by Tim Weimer of School Bus Safety Services, brings the lessons to life in an engaging and entertaining way for elementary-age students.
“Buster is a great mechanism for teaching kids,” Weimer said. “He’s very captivating and makes an impact.”
EDUCATION
In addition to demonstrating proper bus seating
Trussville
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the city’s conservative fiscal approach while focusing on rebuilding reserves and pursuing strategic growth.
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“We’re going to be very intentional about every expense,” he said. “That doesn’t mean we’re standing still — we’re planning for our next elementary school and preparing for future development.”
Looking ahead, Short said his priorities include sustainability, infrastructure and addressing overcrowd-
Superintendent Dr. Michael Martin said the results reflected a strong districtwide effort. “We are very proud of our students, very proud of our administrators as well as our teachers,” Martin said. “We’re excited about the progress, but we are certainly not satisfied.” Martin said support from the city—both financially and through local involvement—has been key to maintaining high expectations. “It’s that support that allows us to go out and do the things we need to do to have a successful school system,” he said. The board also recognized students who earned perfect ACAP scores in math and ELA. Perfect math scorers included Cahaba Elementary students Grant Segers, Addison Crenshaw, Luke Bradshaw, Spencer Steele, Max Chen and Mila Amari; Magnolia Elementary students Wyatt
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Reeves, Evan Newman, Wyatt Lowery and Logan Whitworth; and Paine Elementary students Emma Marquis, Kate Holland, Money Displessis, James Batchelor, Kai Fisher, Bennett Nobli, Alesander Spusta, Elizabeth Talley, Alice Flatt, Keegan Dailey, Skylar Gibbs, Nolan Thompson, James Clark and Colton Hodge. From Hewitt-Trussville Middle School, perfect math scores were earned by Slade Miller, Liam Shafer, Thomas Morse, Bentley Buckelew and Hadley Turner. Perfect ELA scores were earned by Magnolia Elementary students Shyra Shakya and Everett Almquist; Cahaba Elementary student Malcolm Collins; and Hewitt-Trussville Middle School students Mathilda Adams, Zoe Stewart, Madison Anthony, Darby Knighton and Anna McCombs.
The meeting was relatively brief, with Mayor David Miller announcing that the city has received a proposal to locate an Aldi in the current building for the Mangos restaurant, which is expected to close. Miller said that the city has worked “for literally years” to bring the chain in.
He said that when the new administration takes place a public hearing will be required before approving or disapproving the proposal.
“We have a really good shot here of getting an Aldi after all this time,” he said. “I’ve probably been asked more about when we’re going to get an Aldis any other single thing, except maybe the pickleball court.”
Construction. The city’s portion is $600,000, Miller said.
“It’s been in the budget for a long time,” he said. “Now it’s become a fact.”
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and behavior, Buster teaches students about the “danger zone” around buses — the area where students are most at risk of being hit — and reinforces rules such as keeping hands inside windows and walking, rather than running, when boarding or exiting.
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Buster made a stop at Bryant Park Elementary School in Clay on Monday at noon, giving students the chance to meet both the mascot and his owner, as well as members of the Jefferson County Schools transportation department.
ing in Trussville’s schools as the city continues to grow. He reaffirmed his commitment to the Trussville 2040 Plan — a long-term roadmap for the city’s development — and announced plans to propose updated regulations and design standards.
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“Our goal is to make sure Trussville continues to thrive while protecting the quality of life for all citizens,” Short said. “Through strategic planning and community input, we’ll ensure our city grows responsibly.”
“Programs like this are essential in ensuring that our youngest students understand the responsibilities of being safe passengers,” Snowden said. “It’s about instilling safe habits early.”
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Buster the Bus has become a familiar and beloved figure in Jefferson County, helping the district combine safety education with fun and memorable learning experiences. The initiative highlights JEFCOED’s continued commitment to student safety, not only on buses but throughout the school day.
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encouraging residents to participate in shaping Trussville’s updated master plan.
“Your voice matters,” he said. “We want to identify priorities together to ensure the future of Trussville reflects the vision of its people.”
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As Choat passed the torch, the event marked both the close of one era and the beginning of another. With strong finances, an experienced council and continued community involvement, Trussville’s leaders said the city is positioned for continued growth and success.
C al en da r
Local Meetings
●Trussville City Council Meetings:2nd and 4thTuesday of eachmonthat6 p.m.,
CityCouncil Annex
●Trussville BoardofEducation Meetings:3rd Monday of eachmonthat6 p.m.
TCSCentral Office
●ClayCityCouncil Meetings:2nd and 4thTuesday of eachmonthat6 p.m.
Shortly afterwards the council came to the resolution regarding the sidewalk project, particularly to make them compliant with the American Disabilities Act or ADA. Miller addressed a comment that he said he heard from a citizen commenting that the sidewalks are “not in bad shape.”
Newly elected District 1 Councilor Sabrina Rose was the only one to speak during public comments. She thanked the council for their actions over the years, particularly for the purchase of playground equipment int the Moton community.
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“After any campaign I know it’s strenuous, but I appreciate each and every one of you for your time and your service,” she told the council.
●Parks and RecTrivia: Thursday,July25at6 p.m.
“Most of them are not in bad shape,” he said. “But all of them are not in compliance with the ADA regulations – the American Disabilities Act.”
●PinsonCityCouncil Meetings: 1stand 3rdThursday of eachmonthat7 p.m.
●CenterPoint City Council Meetings:1st and 3rdThursday of eachmonth, at 6:30 p.m.
The total cost of the project is $3.2 million, with the bid being awarded to Bull
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●Springville City Council Meetings:1st and 3rdMonday of eachmonthat6 p.m.
●IrondaleCityCouncil Meetings:1st and 3rdTuesday of eachmonthat6 p.m.
Shelby County
●Leeds City Council Meetings:1st and 3rdMonday of eachmonthat6 p.m.
●Moody City Council Meetings:2nd and 4thMonday of eachmonthat6 p.m.
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The next Leeds City Council meeting is scheduled for Nov. 4. Eddie Moore takes Miller’s place, with Rose, Cary Kennedy and Dale Faulker to fill the remaining council seats.
Pinson Public Library
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In other business the council:
Accepted a $20,000 grant from Jefferson County in support of the Leeds Senior Center
From front page maniego said. “I’m proud of their commitment to continuously challenge themselves to enhance operations, increase transparency, and maintain custody and control of our inmate population in Shelby County.”
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Passed a resolution formalizing $5 million set for the purchase of maintenance equipment, Approved a $7,250 donation to the Leeds Arts Council, • Tabled a 12 month agreement with Waste Management that includes a $3.87 increase on the current $16.58, Approved $50,0000 for the Leeds Main Street program to be paid in installments of $12,000, • Tabled a resolution the purchase of a portion of the annex property from the Leeds Water Works Board for $192,000, and • Approved playground equipment for Moton Park for $200,626.67. Leeds City Council meetings are held on the first and third 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.
NIJO is recognized nationally for its accreditation program, which is specifically tailored to the unique operational requirements and legal responsibilities of correctional facilities. The organization focuses on helping jails align with case law, minimize risk, improve inmate care, and promote professionalism across all levels of staff.
The Shelby County Sheriff’s Office said it will continue working to meet NIJO standards as it prepares for its next accreditation cycle, stressing that the audit results reflect not just policy, but a long-term commitment to safe and responsible jail operations.
Buster the Bus engages students in school bus safety lessons at Bryant Park Elementary School. (Photo by Jakob Gurley.)
Leeds Mayor David Miller. Photo by Nathan Prewett.
Springville says farewell to outgoing council members and police chief
By Terry Schrimscher
SPRINGVILLE, Ala. –
The Springville City Council held the final meeting of the current administration Monday night, Oct. 21, by paying tribute to Wayne Tucker, a long-serving member of the council who passed away. The council also honored retiring council member Tim Walker and bid farewell to Police Chief Wayne Walton who is being replaced by the incoming administration.
Walton took the podium early in the regular meeting to give commendations to two officers who responded to a recent crisis at Springville High School where a possibly suicidal teen brought a weapon to school.
School Resource Officer
Jason Brooks and Officer
David Weal were presented commendations by Walton for their handling of the situation. Details on the incident were reported in The Tribune earlier this month.
After the presentation, officers from the Springville Police Department asked Walton to return to the front of the room where they presented him with his duty weapon to honor him for his years of service to the city.
Mayor Dave Thomas read the presentation for the audience.
“On behalf of the City of Springville, the mayor and city council wish to take this opportunity to recognize and honor Chief Wayne Walton for his 27 years of dedicated service to the citizens of Springville,” Thomas said. “As a token
of the city’s gratitude and in recognition of his years of faithful service, the City of Springville is proud to present Chief Walton with his duty weapon—a symbol of his honorable career and his lasting legacy within our community.”
Although no replacement has been named by the incoming administration, reports indicate Walton was not going to be retained by the new mayor and council. The Tribune has learned from sources in the community that Walton will be employed by a neighboring city in the coming weeks.
Another item related to the Springville Police Department was removed from the agenda. The resolution to continue pay increases and reinstate merit raises for all department personnel was removed from the agenda without public discussion. The pay increases were approved in budget meetings and merit raises were not approved for city employees for the upcoming fiscal year.
Thomas offered outgoing members of the council an opportunity to speak parting words during the meeting.
Thomas, who is not serving another term, and outgoing council member Marshall Parker did not offer any comments. Instead, Thomas read a proclamation for Tim Walker who announced his retirement from the council earlier this year.
Walker spoke briefly, challenging citizens to stay engaged and to serve the city.
“Everybody in the city of Springville should take a turn of doing their duty and upholding this council,” Walker said. “They would be surprised how difficult it is, sometimes.”
The meeting concluding with the presentation of a plaque honoring long-serving member of the council, Wayne Tucker. Tucker served on the council for 42 years until he passed away after a long illness in Dec. 2022. The plaque honoring Tucker will be placed on a pedestal in a memorial garden at the Market on Main.
The next meeting of the Springville City Council will be held at 6 p.m. on Nov. 4 with a work session at 5:30 p.m. prior to the meeting.
Fewer students attending Alabama Public Schools
By Ryan Hall (WIAT)
MONTGOMERY, Ala.
– The State Board of Education said districts are seeing fewer students in the classroom this year. It is the largest reduction in 40 years. Because teaching jobs are tied to enrollment, leaders explained it could lead to staff reductions.
“The thing that’s most interesting to me is that this is an across-the-state reduction,” said Alabama State Superintendent of Education Eric Mackey.
State board data shows 5,823 fewer students are attending public schools this year. Mackey said a large portion of those students–around 3,000–moved to private schools or homeschooling through the CHOOSE Act. It’s a tax credit students can use to pay for tuition.
The others, Mackey explained, are still being accounted for. He said some districts saw a large loss of Hispanic students. Additionally, he said some students might have gone homeschooled and neglected to unenroll. As a result, Mackey said around 500 teaching jobs could disappear next year.
“These will be absorbed in retirements,” Mackey said. “Ultimately, it does mean that there will be fewer teachers across the state
because there will be places where a teacher retires and doesn’t get replaced.”
Republicans and Democrats have different takes on that reduction and how the CHOOSE Act-has affected enrollment.
“For whatever reasons, the parents think that that wasn’t a good fit for those students, and now they’re going to a school that is a better fit for them,” said state Rep. Susan DuBose, R-Hoover. “We should all be celebrating that opportunity.”
“We’ve already been having a teacher shortage–trying to get people into education,” said state Rep. Curtis Travis, D-Tuscaloosa. “I’m sure with the number of education units being lost, that’s not going to be handled.”
The Alabama Conference of Educators said leaders should be addressing the root cause of that shortage and why students are leaving in the first place.
“If they don’t do something, that’s going to continue to be the problem,” said Alabama Conference of Educators Executive Director Harley Phillips. “If they close that local school and the next school is 25 miles away, it’s guaranteed that those parents are not going to put those kids back in that public school.”
Mackey said there are 45,000 to 50,000 education professionals employed in the state. He said enrollment will be used to create next year’s budget.
Community gathers to pray for Kimber Mills following shooting
By Amy Hybels (WIAT)
CLEVELAND, Ala. –
The Blount County community came together Monday night to pray for Kimber Mills, a senior at Cleveland High School senior who was shot over the weekend.
Three other young people were also shot while attending a gathering in the woods near Highway 75 and Clay-Palmerdale Road early Sunday morning. The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office stated it has arrested a suspect in connection with the shooting.
The JCSO stated a preliminary investigation indicates what started as a verbal and a physical altercation escalated, resulting in gunfire. Mills said another sister was with Kimber Mills the outdoor gathering when the violence unfolded.
CBS 42 spent time at the vigil at Michael Dix-
on Memorial Stadium in Cleveland and had a chance to speak with the older sister of Mills. The football field was awash in pink as friends, family, loved ones and students came together dressed in Mills’ favorite color.
“There’s moments in life that don’t make sense,” Pastor Jack Thomason said.
Prayers were offered up.
“We just lift up the Mills family to you, Kimber, to you, Lord,” another man prayed aloud.
The Blount County community gathered to pray after learning that one of its own, Mills, had been shot in the head and the leg early Sunday morning.
Ashley Mills, her older sister, said Kimber Mills is not expected to survive her injuries. Now, Ashley Mills is having to prepare for the unthinkable.
“They did some tests on her today for some organ donations,” Ashley Mills said.
“They only gave her like a few days, so we don’t know how many more days it’s going to be,” Ashley Mills continued.
“There’s no course in the education program that tells you what it’s like to lose a student, especially one as bright and vibrant as Kimber, who we haven’t lost yet,” said Casey Payne, a Cleveland High School counselor who said that Kimber Mills is known for her bright smile. “She’s still with us, but it’s a terrible circumstance.”
“We shouldn’t be burying our little sister,” Ashley Mills said. “It should be the other way around.”
“Love hard and support and don’t go a day without telling someone that you love them,” Ashley Mills continued.
Ashely Mills said two young men who were shot early Sunday remain hospitalized.
The City of Springville and Springville Police Department presented outgoing chief Wayne Walton with his service weapon. Photo by Terry Schrimscher.
The Alabama Department of Education
By Jeff Poor
For decades, the Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA) has ruled with an iron fist over high school athletics.
It’s their way or the highway — not a far cry from the culture of most locker rooms, where the head coach is the benevolent dictator.
Although it may not seem like a big deal, the AHSAA is one of the state’s elite institutions as it oversees 401 high schools and 287 junior high schools throughout Alabama’s 67 counties.
At least in theory, it operates like any other organization, with its leadership chosen by its member institutions. However, the caveat is that there is no other game in town. You play under its banner, or you don’t play at all. (There is the much smaller AISA, but that’s a discussion for another time.)
Once again, it is their way or the highway, and the longstanding perception is that there is not a whole lot anyone can do about it.
If you try to fight it, there is an implied risk to the entire athletic program — not just at the school but potentially the whole school system. For that reason, schools historically have been reluctant to take on the AHSAA.
At times, lawmakers and others in state government have paid lip service to act against the organization, but it has never manifested itself into something meaningful that would change the status quo. There have been a few skirmishes that have resulted in change, but only through public pressure.
Jeff Poor: A fight they can’t win
In 2019, Troy’s Charles Henderson High School then-senior girls’ basketball standout Maori Davenport was declared ineligible for a reported “clerical error” of receiving a stipend check of $857.20 from USA Basketball for playing at the FIBA Americas U18 Championship months earlier. Once USA Basketball recognized the error, it notified the AHSAA. Under AHSAA rules, payments of more than $250 are not allowed. Davenport sent the money back, but was still deemed ineligible for one season, which, if the ruling had stood, would have meant the end of her high
school playing career.
Davenport’s parents promptly filed a lawsuit against the AHSAA and then-director Steve Savarese. They were granted injunctive relief, allowing her to play until the court ruled on the case.
That saga drew national attention, very little of which was favorable for the AHSAA.
At that point, people began to question the organization’s unwillingness to exercise discretion by wavering from the enforcement of its rules.
In 2022, a similar situation arose when Oakwood Adventist Academy
in Huntsville was forced to forfeit a 1A semifinal game that was scheduled in conflict with the team’s observance of the sabbath.
Seventh-day Adventists recognize the sabbath from sundown on Friday to sundown on Saturday. However, despite efforts to move the game and a willingness by the other teams on the slate for the venue’s playoff games, Oakwood took the forfeit for the semifinal game scheduled for 4:30 p.m.
The AHSAA also drew national backlash for how it handled that situation, which attracted the attention of Gov. Kay Ivey.
The organization stuck to rules and maintained that Oakwood, a private school, had previously agreed to terms that would allow it to participate in AHSAA contests. It won the battle but lost a lot of good faith from some very powerful figures in Alabama. Now, the AHSAA’s winning streak could be coming to an end. It’s now in the crosshairs of Ivey and State House Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter (R- Rainsville) for its decision to outright contradict a provision of the state school choice CHOOSE Act law passed in 2024 regarding the athletic eligibility of
school choice participants.
Language that was inserted into the bill that was passed by the legislature and signed into law by the Governor explicitly stated that school choice participation would not impact the eligibility of student-athletes.
Yet, at the beginning of the 2025 school year, the AHSAA issued a directive declaring that school choice students would still be required to sit out a year, despite that language in the law.
It was a bold gesture, but it is hard to see how the AHSAA will prevail or even survive this dust-up.
Whether or not one thinks politicians have any business meddling in the affairs of high school athletics is not the issue.
In the end, it will be the blatant act of defiance, and a score will be settled on a political landscape.
The AHSAA may have the best lobbyists in Montgomery and some allies within the Alabama State House, but trying to go toeto-toe with Ivey over one of her signature education policy achievements is ill-advised.
When then-Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs director Kent Davis took on Ivey over the reorganization of the agency, he lost. A battle for control of the state’s veterans agency may seem to be low stakes, but the lesson is that the Governor plays to win and usually does. On this one, she’ll have the backing of the Alabama Legislature.
To put it simply, years of blown calls are catching up with the AHSAA, and this school choice impasse will be a fight the organization can’t win.
Alabama’s Economic Success Will Continue with Port of Mobile Upgrade
Alabama continues to rank as to one of the top ten states in the Nation for its success in drawing companies to the state to do business.
There are a lot of reasons the state has been so successful in economic development, such as top notch workforce training and a competitive business
incentives program. When it comes to bringing new companies and a business friendly climate, Alabama annually makes the list because of its commitment to economic development.
Area Development Magazine recently awarded the state the title due to Alabama’s success in bringing new jobs to the state. Ala-
bama received high marks in specific categories, particularly for low property taxes, the overall cost of doing business and a favorable regulatory framework. And based on this new ranking, the state’s strategy to compete around the world for new capital investment is working. Now a new addition to
Alabama will move the state to the next level. This past week the Port of Mobile just celebrated the completion of dredging to create a 50-foot channel depth, making it the deepest container port in the Gulf of America.
The state has been competing with other ports for both national and international trade, but now Alabama has another weapon in their arsenal to attract new businesses to the state and support existing companies.
With the deeper channel comes more capacity for more ship traffic, which means additional cargo flowing to Alabama. The port also allows for more ships to deliver products at a more efficient capacity.
This has been a long term project for the Alabama Port Authority, but with it complete, the wait was worth it, for the future of the state’s economic success is bight. Paul DeMarco is a former member of the Alabama House of Representatives and can be found on X, formerly Twitter, at @Paul_ DeMarco
L ifesty L e
LASS BUT NOT LEAST: A View From Above
By Ken Lass
I love football. Probably too much. I watch it religiously, at every level. Professional, college, high school. If a bunch of kids are playing in their backyard, I would probably stop to watch. There’s no telling how many enriching life experiences I’ve missed out on because the games were on TV all day and night. I miss so many of my friends and neighbors. I haven’t seen them since opening weekend in late August. Can’t wait to catch up with them. In January.
So you can imagine my excitement when recently I was invited to attend an Alabama game at Bryant-Denny stadium. But this was not just any invitation. These were club level seats! Having spent decades watching football on sidelines, bleacher benches and crowded, noisy press boxes, I had always wondered what it might be like to take in a game in those lofty, elite, covered sections. You know, the seats where, if you have to ask what they cost, you can’t afford them. Now, at last, my opportunity had arrived.
The first perk of club membership becomes apparent long before you enter the stadium. You cruise past thousands of weary, crimson-clad fans, who are having to walk the sidewalks in the heat, after being forced to park in Northport and Cottondale. We pull into a roomy lot that is, literally, across the street from the stadium. Upon arrival, we stroll to our gate, where a polite young coed scans our tickets, then wraps a bracelet around my wrist, like the
wristbands you buy at the Trussville carnivals. Except this one brings you much more than a ride on the Ferris wheel, or a turn at the goldfish bowl ring toss. We board a private elevator which takes us to our level. The door opens, and we step into what I can only describe as football fan heaven. In front of me spans a long, broad concourse, with rows of buffet food. There is a salad bar, chicken, fried and baked, beef kabobs, pork chops, strawberry cobbler, banana pudding, columns of brownies and cookies of several varieties. Of course, hot dogs and hamburgers if you just have to. A serve-yourself popcorn machine. Soft drinks are unlimited and free. Liquor is not sold here, but you can bring your own and keep it in a section of reserved lockers. There are tables throughout. Each table has a stack of game programs, all free. The back wall is glass with a counter and chairs where you can sit and eat and observe the mass entrance of fans entering the lower levels from all directions.
The people here are not what I was expecting. I had always pictured an upper crust gathering of welldressed, executive types, arm-in-arm with spouses adorned in opulent dresses and jewelry. These folks looked nothing like that. They were wearing jerseys, shorts and tennis shoes. They were young and old, male and female, white and black. There were even a few children dashing about. If you took this crowd and placed them in the stands below, you would not be able to pick them out.
Celebrities and VIPs?
Not here. I did recognize a former dean of the university, and I noticed a member of the Alabama House of Representatives and his family, but that was it. There are higher levels of season ticket ownership than this, such as the Founders Club. Private boxes with dedicated staff. Maybe those stereotypes I had been anticipating dwelled there. But here the feel was decidedly every man.
I did start to notice some differences as game time approached. We walked through a short tunnel out into a small seating area which was, thankfully, covered by an extended roof, throwing shade over the entire section. It was another brutally hot September afternoon in Alabama, and the cover was a much appreciated luxury. We found our seats about 45 minutes before kickoff and there weren’t more than five or six others seated. Below
us the bowl was packed with jubilant fans enjoying the traditions of pre-game. The Million Dollar band, videos of the team’s glory and tradition, the national anthem, the pageantry and the color. There were loud cheers and a sea of shakers. But up in our area, the seats remained largely empty until moments before the start of the game. These people preferred to remain in the concourse, socializing and eating, right up to the last minute.
The game itself was a blowout win for the home team. There was plenty for the fans to scream and shout about, but the mood in our section was subdued. When it came time to make noise to make it difficult for the visiting team to hear, I counted only two in our section who bellowed out. When Bama scored, only a handful rose to their feet, turned, and shared the traditional high-fives with those around them. At the end of the third quarter, almost no one raised the traditional four fingers in the air, the universal sign that the final quarter is to be ours. There were no shakers. During TV timeouts, several would return to the buffet and come back with more plates of food or a refilled drink. None of this should be understood to be a dispersion cast on the fans up here. No doubt they are as rabid as any. Their financial commitment to these tickets is proof of that. But there is a sense of being above the fray. An intense interest in the game, but perhaps not the energy and desire to get wild and crazy. Everyone was friendly and welcoming to this unfamiliar visitor, but there was no face paint. No bare chests with tattoos of Big Al. As we headed home, I was very grateful for the experience. For those who can afford it, or be lucky like me and get a free invite, it’s an awesome way to attend a game. The next time I watch an Alabama game on TV, I will point to the club level area and proudly brag to my friends that I was there. They won’t believe me. That’s why I brought my bracelet home to prove it.
By Dixie Dreamer
Breakups are messy.
Even the so-called amicable ones. There’s the whirlwind of emotions, the division of mutual friends (and Netflix passwords), and of course, the lingering question—can we still be friends? It sounds mature, even admirable, to transition from romantic partners to platonic pals.
But I couldn’t help but wonder, is staying friends with an ex a badge of maturity… or just emotional masochism?
I’ve attempted it all—the clean break, the “we’ll just grab coffee” approach, and yes, even the ill-fated notion that staying close would somehow soothe the sting of a breakup. Spoiler alert—it didn’t. Yet every experience has taught me something new about boundaries, healing, and the fine art of moving forward.
Once upon a breakup, I thought staying friends with my ex was a chance at preserving something good amidst the rubble of our relationship. We had shared so much history, I reasoned, that cutting ties felt impossible. For a while, the arrangement seemed functional.
He’d text me about his day, I’d share funny anecdotes about mine, and it felt comforting—a way to keep the connection alive, albeit in a different form.
But here’s the thing about staying “friends” with an ex—it’s rarely as blackand-white as we’d like to believe. Every text felt like a subtle rehashing of old emotions, every hangout like navigating a minefield of unspoken feelings. I couldn’t escape the sense that, instead of closing the
chapter, I had grabbed a highlighter and was obsessively rereading the painful parts. One night, midway through dinner with friends, my phone lit up with a message from him. Something trivial but familiar, a reminder of what we once had—and, more importantly, what we no longer did. I realized then that the wound hadn’t healed; it was just scabbed over, and every interaction with him was a subconscious way of picking at it. Staying friends wasn’t maturity—it was
denial. The kindest thing I could do, for both of us, was walk away.
Cutting ties wasn’t easy. But looking back, I know it was necessary. River crossings are beautiful, but there’s no point trying to save a burning bridge. Then there was the rare unicorn of my romantic past—the ex who became a real, genuine friend. It didn’t happen right away. When we broke up, it was painful. We needed space—mountains of it—before we could even think about re-entering each other’s lives.
Months passed. Then a year. Our once-frequent texts dwindled into silence, and for the first time, I allowed myself the full process of healing. I grieved the relationship for what it was, and eventually, I moved on. And wouldn’t you know it, when he reappeared, it was different. The romantic feelings were gone, replaced by something surprisingly sustainable—a friendship built on respect, on shared history, with no undercurrent of “what if.” We could joke, reminisce, and catch up without slipping into old
patterns or reopening old wounds. For the first time, I felt like I’d done it. The “just friends” thing actually worked.
But it only worked because we’d given ourselves the time and space to redefine our relationship. Without that, I doubt we could’ve made it this far. Here’s the thing about exes and friendships—you don’t have to prove anything to anyone. Staying friends with an ex isn’t some gold standard of emotional maturity or resilience. It’s not about grit or proving
you’re okay, even if you’re still quietly unraveling inside. It’s about honesty. With them, sure, but mostly with yourself. If being around your ex feels forced, leaves you stuck in the past, or stirs up feelings you’re not ready to process, don’t force it. The goal isn’t to be the poster child for evolved breakups—it’s to protect your peace.
And on the flip side, if there’s a chance to build a friendship that feels healthy and natural—after enough time has passed to truly heal—go for it. Genuine friendships with exes aren’t impossible, but they do require boundaries, communication, and most importantly, time.
I couldn’t help but wonder, is staying friends with an ex a good idea? The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. Some exes are meant to stay in our stories, while others belong firmly in the rearview mirror. What matters is knowing the difference— and giving yourself permission to do what feels right for your emotional well-being. Have you tried staying friends with an ex? Did it feel like maturity or masochism? Whether it’s a tale of awkward coffee meetings, genuine friendships, or lessons learned the hard way, I’d love to hear from you. Email me at columnist@ichbwcolumn.com— your story might just inspire a future column. Until next time, remember—some bridges are worth rebuilding, but others deserve a swift and permanent farewell. And as always, stay fabulous. XOXO
Ultimate Angler Championship Proves Guntersville Best Bass Lake
By David Rainer Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources
The top bass anglers in the nation converged on Lake Guntersville last week to showcase what is arguably the best bass fishing lake in the nation. After three days of competition, without dissent, the anglers who competed in the Ultimate Angler Championship agreed that Lake Guntersville is the best.
The unique tournament that was three years in the making brought together tournament anglers from a variety of leagues and organizations to test their skills during the fall bite at Guntersville. Unified Pros, the anglers’ charity arm, joined with Alabama State Legislators and the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) to hold the namesake tournament with a total prize purse of $1.3 million and a whopping $500,000 going to the winner, which happened to be Alabama’s own Tucker Smith. Conservation Commissioner Chris Blankenship said ADCNR was approached about providing assistance to hold the big fishing event with Unified Pros that crossed all fishing circuit lines. The goal was to join with ADCNR, the City of Scottsboro, Jackson County Economic Development and the State Legislature to put Guntersville in the bass fishing spotlight. With guidance from State Senator Steve Livingston, the Legislature appropriated $1.6 million for the event to be held at Goose Pond Resort on the outskirts of Scottsboro. The pros had to be a member of Unified Pros and then attain certain
tournament success in their respective divisions to qualify for the Ultimate Angler Championship.
“From what I heard at the weigh-ins, these fishermen love to compete against each other,” Commissioner Blankenship said. “Those in the major circuits can only fish against those in that organization, like BASS, FLW, Major League Fishing, Tackle Warehouse and others. To see how they stacked up against that one or that one, I think they just thrived on that competition. They’ve been very happy with the format with two days of fishing and then cutting it down to the top 50 for the final round. And seeing 52 pounds leading after two days, now that shows the quality of fishing on Guntersville. You put the best pros in the world out there, and they’re going to catch fish, big fish.
“This really highlighted the bass fishing in Alabama, which is why we wanted to do it. We want to bring people to the state to enjoy our great fishing and natural resources and boost tourism.”
ADCNR’s State Parks, Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries and Outdoor Alabama had booths at the associated Ultimate EXPO to give attendees plenty of information and shopping opportunities before the weigh-ins started each afternoon. During the event, more than 400 third- and fourth-grade students from the local area attended the EXPO on the first two days to learn about conservation, stewardship and law enforcement from ADCNR staff.
“This worked out really well by having all of our people for State Parks to show what we have in Alabama from a state parks
viewpoint,” Commissioner Blankenship said. “We had our ‘Go Fish! Alabama’ folks from our Fisheries Section. We had our Conservation Enforcement Officers here to highlight all the great hunting we have in the state. To be able to showcase all Alabama has to offer in the outdoors has been really good.”
Commissioner Blankenship said while the focus last week was on Lake Guntersville, a 69,000-acre impoundment on the Tennessee River, Alabama has an abundance of great fishing opportunities all around the state. He pointed out the great fishing at Lake Eufaula, the Mobile-Tensaw Delta, the Coosa, Tallapoosa and Alabama river systems, the Alabama Power lakes, the Tombigbee and Black Warrior rivers.
“We’re just blessed with fishing opportunities,” he said. “I sure am glad we were able to highlight that at an event like this. And with the conversations I’ve had with the pros, they’re just overwhelmed by how great the fishing is on Lake Guntersville, with all the grass they can fish, how big it is and the diversity of techniques they can use to catch fish. I’ve also enjoyed the camaraderie of the fishermen. It’s a unique group. They’re really happy for
CHANGE IS GRAND!
each other.
“They’re just glad to have this opportunity to fish for the richest prize in bass fishing at $500,000. That’s a big motivator. That gets them here and gets them pumped. That’s really something that could change their careers, change their lives. They’re competing against all the pros from all the different circuits and getting crowned The Ultimate Angler, which is the name of this. It’s a big deal, and I’m glad to have it in Alabama.”
The Ultimate Angler Champion is originally from Birmingham, but the 24-year-old Smith has called Guntersville home for the past year. Since he was a student at Briarwood Christian School, he’s become accustomed to holding the winner’s trophy. He teamed up with Grayson Morris to win the Bassmaster High School Championship twice and then teamed with Hayden Marbut to win it a third time. At Auburn University, Smith and Marbut won the Bassmaster College National Championship. Fishing as a pro for the past two years, Smith qualified for the Bassmaster Elite Series and won the Elite event this year at Lake Fork, Texas, which propelled him to the Rookie of the Year title. Smith admitted his local knowledge helped him
land 25 pounds, 2 ounces on opening day, followed by a whopping 27-pound, 11-ounce bag on the second day for about a 6-pound lead heading into the finale. That second bag caused him to realize he had a legitimate shot at the title. However, he said he definitely felt the pressure during the final round.
“I was nervous all day,” Smith said after Saturday’s final round started late after a 1½ hour fog delay. “It was one of the most stressful days I’ve ever had because I had four fish at about eight pounds at 12:30. I ran about 25 miles back up to a place across from the weigh-in. I was able to cull and catch my limit. It was unbelievable. It’s such a blessing. It’s a God thing. “I spend a lot of time on this lake. I’ve been preparing for a big tournament on this lake. I’ve spent so much time out here when I’m not traveling for tournaments. I’m looking for new areas, sneaky places to fish. That just worked out this week. I hit a couple of areas that nobody was fishing and ended up catching those giant bags on Day 1 and Day 2.”
Smith’s final round limit weighed 18 pounds, 9 ounces for a total weight of 71-6. Jacob Wall, originally from Oregon but now lives in Alabama, placed second at 6410, followed by veteran Alabama angler, Randy Howell, at 61-4. Wall received a check for $130,000 and Howell took home $80,000.
Smith said his main bait for the Ultimate Angler Championship was a ¾-ounce tungsten Picasso football jig with a Yamamoto Yamacraw trailer in green pumpkin.
“That’s my go-to,” he said. “I was fishing the edges of the grass. I was fishing
shellbanks and rocks, any hard spot next to the grass where those fish can pull out and chill out and move back into the grass at night.
“Being on my home lake this week and having fun, that’s what I did this week. I fished hard and did it without Livescope (forward-facing sonar). A lot of people have been saying the young fishermen can’t catch anything without Livescope. I think I proved that us young guys can catch them without Livescope.”
Danny Groves, Unified Pros and Ultimate Angler Championship President, hopes this huge tournament will become an annual event at Lake Guntersville. Other than attracting competitors from all circuits, the tournament also had unique rules that prohibited the use of forward-facing sonar. Anglers were also allowed to use nets to land fish.
“We would love to stay right here in Scottsboro and Lake Guntersville,” Groves said. “We’ve had great support from the City of Scottsboro, Jackson County and Tourism, the State of Alabama and the Department of Conservation. We’d love to stay right here. Hopefully we can get the funding to do it again next year.”
Senator Livingston, whose district includes DeKalb, Jackson and Madison counties, said he was excited about having visitors attend the event and tournament anglers test their skills to see what a great place Lake Guntersville is.
“Guntersville has great bass fishing, and it’s been that way for a number of years,” Senator Livingston said. “The concept is like the Masters of golf. I think there’s a future for this event here and will likely continue.”
Edith Maude Martin
june 18, 1933 — october 12, 2025
o bitua R y
Edith Wise Martin, age 92, a devoted wife and loving mother, grandmother and faithful servant went to be with the Lord on Sunday October 12,2025. Born in Birmingham, Alabama, Edith graduated from Ensley High School. A women of deep faith and a gentle spirit she dedicated her life to nurturing and teaching children . She spent many years serving at First Baptist Church Center Point where she was a cherished member since 1955. There she taught kindergarten, Sunday school, training union and worked in the church day care ministry . After her husband's retirement, Edith and James fulfilled a long life dream of traveling across the United States from the east coast to Alaska, creating memories that lasted a lifetime. She was a current member at Clearview Baptist Church. Edith was married to the love of her life , James Martin, for 73 years.
She is survived by her son James E Martin Jr (wife Cheryl), son Jeff Martin (wife Maxine), daughter Jan Dempsey ( husband Mike), 7 grand children, 8 great-grand children, two sisters Wanda Godwin (husband Bill), and Myrl Ellis (husband Craig) (deceased), brother Wallace Wise (deceased) (wife-Linda), numerous nieces and nephews. Visitation will be on Friday, October 17, 2025, from 10:00 am until 11:00 am at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home. The funeral service will be on Friday, October 17, 2025, at 11:00 am at the funeral home with burial at Jefferson Memorial Gardens. In lieu flowers please, please make donations to the Big Oak Ranch.
Catherine "Cathy" Elizabeth Thompson
sep 24, 1956 - oct 4, 2025
Catherine Elizabeth Thompson, 69, of Birmingham, Alabama, loving mother, wife and friend, completed her life’s work unexpectedly on October 4th, 2025.
Cathy was a deeply spiritual person who held an unwavering faith in God throughout her whole life. She embodied her faith daily in acts of love, kindness and service to others. She had a selfless devotion to her husband, children, family and friends. Professionally she held an unparalleled work ethic, with a conscientious loyalty rarely found today.
In a world that is often cruel, Cathy was an oasis of kindness to all who knew her. Her passing has devastated all of us.
Cathy is survived by her husband, Jerry Thompson; Her son, Joseph Gomez, daughter-in-law Sheila and their daughter Lielia, her son-in-law Cory Payne; Siblings Sandra Grissom, Anne Rivers, Gloria Bundy, Mary Hammer, Brenda Carrol, Ben Rumore Jr., Jack Rumore and David Rumore, as well as many cousins, nieces and nephews.
She is preceded in death by her daughter Amanda Gomez Payne, and her parents Anna Renda Rumore and Ben Rumore Sr.
A Funeral Mass and Celebration of Cathy’s Life will begin at 10am on October 18, 2025 after which there will be food and refreshments served. Please join us at: Saint Barnabus Church 7921 1st Avenue North Birmingham, Al 35206
Elsa Marcelle Hill
february 21, 1931 — october 11, 2025 Elsa Marcelle Hill of Trussville formerly of Tarrant passed away on October 11, 2025. She was preceded in death by her husband Arthur Lee Hill; son, Michael Lee Hill; granddaughter, Kimberly White; parents, Andrew and Marcella Colpack; brother, Andrew Colpack; sister, Doris Hill Bancroft. She was a Phillips High School graduate and a bookkeeper for 40 years. She retired from Molay Supplies after many years and had previously worked at Jefferson Shoe Company. She loved to read and was a great fan of Alabama Football and NASCAR. She also loved going to the beach at Panama City Beach, FL.
Elsa is survived by her children Sandi (Wayne) Talley, Jean Gross and David (Allison) Hill; six grandchildren, Nicole Hill Morton, Chritopher Gross, Matthew Gross, Haley Hill Pilgrim, Justine Hill Hatfield, Melissa Hill Stafford; step granddaughter, Kayla (Kavin) Horsley;14 great-grandchildren, Rylan Morton, Baden Morton, Ellery Morton, Violet Gross, Adleigh Pilgrim, Ayson Pilgrim, Aaralyn Pilgrim, August Pilgrim, Abbott Pilgrim, Ames Asher Pilgrim, Summer Stafford, Alexandria Swann, Sarah White and Austin Ashdown; five step great-grandchildren, Trevor Horsley, Trent Horsley, Trey Horsley, Trace Horsley and Travis Horsley. There will be a Memorial Service on Thursday, October 16, 2025, at 12:00 pm at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home. The family will receive friends from 11:00 am until 12:00 pm on Thursday before the service.
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Elsa Marcelle Hill, please visit our flower store.
Charles Stanley “Stan” Sharit
february 29, 1948 — october 3, 2025
Graveside Services for Mr. Charles Stanley Sharit, age 77 of Leeds, will be held on Wednesday, October 8, 2025 at 2:00 P.M. at Jefferson Memorial Gardens with Rev. Chris Jones officiating.
Stan passed away on Friday, October 3, 2025. Born in Birmingham, he was a lifelong resident of Alabama. Stan started working at Fulton Enterprises in 1974 and continued his career there until his retirement.
He is survived by his children, Eddie Sharit (Lisa), Deanna Wilson (Jason) and Brad Sharit (Ashley), his grandchildren, Emily Foote (Will), Molly Isbell (Zack), Zac Wilson (Alanah), Kinlee Wilson, Ben Sharit, Anna Grace Sharit and Lincoln Sharit, his great-grandchildren, Declan Foote, Jude Foote, Ellis Foote, Evie Isbell and Hadlee Wilson, his brother, Clark Sharit (Pam), his sister, Sherry Prince and a host of extended family. He was preceded in death by his parents, Vernon and Mary Sharit.
Jason Wilson, Zac Wilson, Ben Sharit, Will Foote, Kenneth St. John and Jimmy Brewer will serve as pallbearers.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 8, 2025 from 1:00 P.M. until service time at 2:00 P.M. at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, please make memorial donations to St. Jude Hospital in Stan’s memory. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Charles Stanley “Stan” Sharit, please visit our flower store.
Howard Earl Chappelle
october 23, 1941 — october 11, 2025
Funeral Services for Mr. Howard Earl Chappelle, age 83 of Birmingham, will be held on Thursday, October 16, 2025 at 10:00 A.M. at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home with Bro. David Awtrey officiating. Burial will follow in the adjoining gardens.
Mr. Chappelle passed away on Saturday, October 11, 2025 at UAB St. Vincents Birmingham. Born in Jefferson County on October 23, 1941, he was a lifelong resident of Alabama. He worked for many years with Stockham Valve as a Parts Manager, traveling to many different places with them until his retirement. Mr. Chappelle loved watching sports, especially Auburn football and basketball, and watching his grandkids and great-grandkids compete in their sports.
He was a loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend that will be dearly missed. Mr. Chappelle was a member of First Baptist Church – Pinson.
He is survived by his sons, Greg Chapelle and Slade Chappelle (Amy Sport Chappelle), his grandchildren, Jacob Chappelle (Brittany), Matthew Chappelle, Ana Chappelle Massey (Hayes), Maddy Chappelle Purvis (Chandler), Lily Chappelle Moore (Braden) and Tucker Hannah Chappelle, his great-grandchildren, Skylar Chappelle, Emma Chappelle, and Lainey Ray Purvis, along with a host of nieces, nephews and extended family.
He was preceded in death by his sister, Rebecca Simpson and his parents, Howard and Lois Gilstrap Chappelle.
Family and friends will serve as pallbearers.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 16, 2025 from 9:00 A.M. until service time at 10:00 A.M. at
Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home.
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Howard Earl Chappelle, please visit our flower store.
Elaine McPherson
march 24, 1937 — october 12, 2025
Elaine Friday McPherson, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of her family, on October 12, 2025. She was 88 years old.
Born on March 24, 1937, to Marvin Lavelle Friday and Sybil Missouri Knowles in Birmingham, Alabama, Elaine’s life was a testament to love, devotion, and service. She graduated from Hewitt Trussville High School in 1955, marking the beginning of a journey filled with meaningful relationships, deep faith, and a love for the simple joys of life.
Elaine was a cherished member of Dawson Memorial Baptist Church in Homewood, Alabama, where her faith flourished through her involvement in her Sunday school class. She found great purpose and peace in the community there, touching the lives of many with her kindness and unwavering belief.
On April 4, 1959, Elaine married her soulmate, Samuel Ray McPherson, at Black Creek Baptist Church in Birmingham. Their marriage of nearly 64 years was a partnership built on love, mutual respect, and shared dreams. Together, they raised four children: Emily, David, Mark, and Amy, who were the heart of Elaine’s world.
Elaine and Ray shared a special bond with their farm in Blount County, Alabama, a place where they found joy in working together to cultivate vegetable gardens and nurture the beauty of their surroundings. Their love for nature was reflected in their carefully tended yard, where wild hydrangeas, dogwoods, azaleas, and ferns flourished. Elaine found peace in the rhythm of planting, tending, and watching the seasons change.
Elaine had a deep appreciation for the beauty of the world beyond her garden, and she especially cherished the time spent traveling with her family. Whether it was the sun-kissed shores of the beach, the misty peaks of the Blue Ridge Mountains, or the adventures of visiting extended family across the country, Elaine found joy in exploring new places and making memories with those she loved. These trips were always filled with laughter, shared stories, and moments of togetherness that became treasured chapters in the family’s story.
She was known for her generosity and warmth, especially when it came to hosting her family during the holidays. Christmas, in particular, was a time when her home was filled with love, laughter, and the scent of freshly baked treats. Her holiday traditions created lasting memories for all who were fortunate enough to gather around her table.
Elaine was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Samuel Ray McPherson, and her siblings: Joan Ellenburg, Kenneth Friday, and Bobby Friday. While we mourn her passing, we take comfort in knowing she has been reunited with those she loved.
Elaine’s legacy lives on in her children: Emily McPherson Northington (Dave), David Ray McPherson (Micki), Mark McPherson, and Amy McPherson Bramblett (Mike). She was a devoted grandmother to 10 grandchildren: Ryan (Emily), Wesley (Emily), Kate (Brandon), Ben (Marybeth), Erin, Coleman, Claire, Bradley (Anna Elise), Geoffrey (Taryn), and Jay (Madison). She was also blessed with 11 great-grandchildren: Grady, John Wyatt, Mary, Will, Elaina, Millie, Ford, Paulie Faye, Janie, Collins, and Lydia, all of whom brought her immeasurable joy.
Elaine will be remembered for her quiet strength, her deep love for her family, and the peace she found in the simple beauty of life. Her legacy of faith, love, and kindness will continue to inspire all who knew her.
The family would like to thank Elaine’s wonderful caregivers: Yolawnde Green, Bianca Robinson, Venyette Wren, and Charita Perry.
Elaine’s grandsons will all serve as pallbearers.
A graveside service to celebrate her life will be held on Thursday, October 16, at 11:00 a.m. at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home and Gardens in Trussville, Alabama. If you prefer to make a donation in lieu of flowers, please donate to Children’s Hospital of Alabama in Elaine’s honor.
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Elaine McPherson, please visit our flower store.
CELBRATING 75 YEARS OF SERVICE AND REMEMBRANCE
We invite you to take part in our First Annual Remembrance Walk throught the cemeterya peaceful tribute to those we honor.
Tents will be placed along the route for comfort, and golf carts will be available for guests who need assitance.
Enjoy coffee and breakfast from Southern Coffee and Waffles, and help us close the morning with a ballon release of 75 ballons in celebration of our 75th anniversary.
SATURDAY 9AM - 11 AM OCTOBER 25
1591 Gadsen Hwy., Birmingham, AL 35235
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Call (205) 533-8664
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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.
Adult D&D: College Edition Friday, October 24 4:00pm - 5:30pm Trussville Cahaba Room
c a L enda R
Registration for the event is required as space is limited
Anime Club
Monday, October 27
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 decorating anime themed pumpkins!
(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)
American Girl Club
Monday, October 27
5:00pm - 6:00pm Trussville LBK Auditorium
Enjoy discussing this month’s featured American Girl, Molly (1944)! Participants will also play a themed game and make a craft together.
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. Please read Meet
At American Girl Club, we will learn about what it was like on the home front and the war front during WWII. Your child will create their own patriotic pinwheel and Hawaiian flower lei for this month’s American Girl Club.
Stranger Things Trivia Tuesday, October 28 6:00pm - 7:00pm Trussville LBK Auditorium
Join us in the Upside Down
Do you think you know everything there is to know about Stranger Things? Then get a team together and test your knowledge against other fans of the show. Since season 5 comes out in November, you need to rewatch everything anyway, so you might as well get some prizes out of it. Prizes will be given away for best team name, best costume, and an overall grand prize for the trivia masters. Limit 5 per team (list team members as “guests” when registering). Snacks and drinks will be provided. Registration is Open.
Monster Tales Writing Club for Tweens (4th - 8th)
Wednesday, October 29 4:00pm - 5:00pm Trussville Parkway Room
Join us for a creative writing workshop as we create monster tales!
Each participate will decorate a felt monster during this program, then bring their creation to life by craft-
7 PM Join us at the Rock School Center on Friday, October 24th from 5 to 7 PM for the fifth annual Boo Bash presented by Pinson Public Library & Pinson Parks & Recreation Department!
This family-friendly fall festival event is for all ages! There will be many activities, crafts, & candy. No registration is required to attend the event.
Businesses, clubs, non-profits & individuals are invited to sign up for a FREE station at our event to pass out goodies or engage attendees. There is no charge to participate, but you are required to provide either treats/toys or an interactive activity/game at your station.
Please see our registration form for more information about having a table at this event: https://bit.ly/pinsonboobash
We are also welcoming food trucks to set up outside the library during the event to provide dinner & snack options to attendees. If your food truck is interested in participating, please use the form above to register.
Undead Makeovers Mon Oct 27th 4:30pm - 6:00pm Pinson Public Library, 4599 Pinson Blvd, Pinson, AL 35126, USA
Clay beats Oxford to claim region crown
Britney Bailey, For the Tribune
CLAY-CHALKVILLE
– The Cougars took down the Oxford Yellow Jackets at home Friday night in Cougar Stadium, 40-16. The win secured the 6A Region 6 Championship for the Cougars for the fourth time in five years and avenged Clay’s only loss in the previous 28 region games.
The first quarter was a defensive tug-of-war for both teams, with the Cougars putting the first points on the board with a late-quarter field goal from Joseph Del Toro. The Cougars struck up the momentum on a 61yard touchdown from Josh Woods, bulldozing defenders, to give the Cougars a 10-0 lead.
Cougar quarterback Aar-
on Frye added six more at the top of the second quarter on a 24-yard keeper, upping the Cougar lead to 16 after a failed 2-point attempt.
Oxford finally answered the call late in the second with a field goal. Frye made his mark once more in the half with :22 to go on a 4-yard touchdown run.
Oxford quarterback Maddox Mims found the light in the third quarter on a 28-yard pass to Andre Ford to cut the Cougar lead to 23-9 after the PAT.
Del Toro came through for the Cougars again at the 4:07 mark in the third for a 27-yard field goal, to put the Cougars up 26-9. Oxford’s Mims had a rebuttal, finding Ford again for a 20yard touchdown to make it a 10-point ballgame. Frye capped off the third
sports
Huskies get huge 36–21 region win over Oak Mountain
By John Goolsby, Prep Sports Editor
INDIAN
SPRINGS
–
Hewitt-Trussville bounced back from two losses to ruin Oak Mountain’s homecoming Friday night.
The Huskies used a balanced attack and came up with key defensive plays to build a halftime lead before pulling away in the second half for a huge 36–21 region road win Friday night.
The Huskies struck first when CJ Davis, III scored on a short run with 8:39 left in the opening quarter. Hewitt’s defense forced a punt and then blocked it at the 7:06 mark to keep momentum on their side.
A long completion from Zach Benedict to Dylan Cope moved the Huskies into the red zone, but Oak Mountain’s defense came up big, stopping a fourthand-inches play at the 3-yard line.
After getting the ball back at the Eagles’ 27 with 2:25 left in the quarter, Hewitt’s drive ended with an interception at the 6-yard line with :37 remaining. Oak Mountain answered with a methodical 94-yard drive to tie the game 7–7 at the 8:31 mark.
The Huskies regained the lead after a pass interference penalty kept the next drive alive. When the offense stalled, Nathan Fritz
drilled a 27-yard field goal to make the score 10–7 with 3:08 left in the half.
On Oak Mountain’s next possesion, Woogie Crawford made a diving interception at the Oak Mountain 1-yard line, setting up James Kelley’s one-yard touchdown run.
“He threw a little high — I blitzed off the edge and thought I had it,” said Crawford. “I tried to run off too quick and lost it, but I knew I could make this play. I dove over my teammate, got it in one hand, kept it up so
they could see I caught it — and the rest is history.”
The extra point was blocked, giving Hewitt-Trussville a 16–7 lead as the teams headed to the locker room.
Both teams opened the third quarter trading punts before Hewitt-Trussville’s offense came alive. James Kelly ripped off a 24-yard run to the Oak Mountain 6-yard line, and on the next play, Benedict ran it in to give the Huskies a 22–7 lead after the PAT was blocked again.
Hewitt got the ball back
later in the quarter, and Duece Alston broke free for a 72-yard run to the 4-yard line as the third quarter expired. On the first play of the fourth, Alston scored to make it 29–7. After another series of punts, Oak Mountain put together a 40-yard drive to close the gap to 29–14 with 4:13 remaining.
Hewitt answered when Benedict hit Dane Askins with a 27-yard touchdown pass to stretch the lead to
Credit: Sherry Parker
Corey Barber gets loose. Credit: Ron Burkett
See HUSKIES, Page 16
Leeds Survives scare trom Center Point in 21-7 Win
By Shane Paschal, For the Tribune
CENTER POINT, Ala –
Leeds and Center Point both entered their game at the latter’s field already knowing their postseason fates. Leeds was cemented in fourth place in 5A Region 6, while Center Point would miss the playoffs for the first time in seven seasons. Because of that, it was understandable that the teams—and even the fans—might have been a little less enthusiastic than usual. Still, Leeds would grind out a tougher-than-expected 21-7 victory.
Center Point received the opening kickoff and made one first down before Leeds’ Javone McCrayer intercepted a pass and returned it 25 yards to the Eagle 30. Taylon Gaiter then pounded the ball down to give the Greenwave first-and-goal at the seven. Gavin Howard ran it in from seven yards out, and with the extra point, Leeds led 7-0 with 5:27 left in the opening quarter.
Center Point started its next possession at the 30. Quarterback Daemon Canty sprinted off on a keeper for a 65-yard touchdown, and the extra point tied the game at 7-all with 3:46 remaining. Leeds began their next drive at their own 13. It culminated with a long Gaiter pass to Jordan Smith for a score as the quarter expired. The extra point gave Leeds a 14-7 lead heading into the second quarter. Neither team could get anything going in the second quarter, and the half ended with the Greenwave still up 14-7.
The third quarter was more of the same, as neither team could crack the other’s end zone. Leeds started a drive at their own 20 with 2:51 left in the quarter. They ran for a first down to the 35, then another first down to the 46. Gaiter followed with a long run to the 29. That was how the quarter ended, with Leeds clinging to a slim 14-7 lead.
Gaiter opened the fourth quarter with a 16-yard run to the Eagle 13. A few plays later, Tyler Moultrie took it in from seven yards out, and with the extra point, Leeds led 21-7 with 10:24 left in the game.
Center Point got the ball back and made a quick first down, but was then sacked on successive plays for a total loss of 21 yards. The Eagles punted back to Leeds with 6:19 remaining. More Gaiter runs drained the clock, but Leeds eventually punted back to the Eagles at their four with 1:47 left.
The Greenwave then intercepted a pass at the Eagle 30 and returned it to the 20 with 1:07 remaining. Leeds kneeled out the clock to secure the closer-than-expected 21-7 win.
“Good win,” said Leeds head coach Jerry Hood. “Defense was incredible tonight allowing only 69 total yards.
“Offense controlled the clock and had a total of 330 yards,” he said. “Proud of this group to win their way into the playoffs.”
Center Point’s Dre’mail King was optimistic despite the loss. “Very proud of how
See LEEDS, Page 16
Moody rolls past Springville 55-7 to claim region title
By Henry Williamson, For the Tribune
MOODY, Ala. – The Moody Blue Devils clinched the Class 5A, Region 6 championship Friday night with a dominant 55-7 win over Springville at Bill Morris Stadium, stretching their home winning streak to nine straight.
Moody controlled the game from the opening kickoff, jumping out to a 42-0 halftime lead behind big plays that led to significant gains from Jake Lowery, Kevin James, and Jalijah Rutledge. Despite the score, Springville kept fighting and playing hard, living up to the culture that Head Coach Chris Metcalf has been building. The Blue Devils wasted no time scoring. Kevin James capped off the opening drive with a 1-yard touchdown run set up by a 40-yard pass from Lowery to Rutledge.
Moody continued to pick
up yards, with Le’Kamren Meadows muscling his way in from the 1-yard line to make it 14-0 late in the first quarter. A couple of penalties slowed them down, but the Blue Devils still kept the offense moving efficiently.
On the next drive, Lowery found Aubrey Walker wide open down the sideline for a 65-yard touchdown, giving Moody a 21-0 lead heading into the second quarter.
From there, Moody found its groove. Lowery connected with Rutledge again for a 60-yard touchdown, then James burst 82 yards into the end zone as the Blue Devils kept pouring it on.
A few minutes later, Aidden White ran 56 yards to the end zone, extending Moody’s lead to 42-0.
By halftime, the Blue Devils had tallied up 430 yards offensively. Springville struggled to find rhythm offensively in the first half. Gavin Webber was targeted with passes
from Brennen Archer and got several touches, trying to give the Tiger offense a boost up field.
Metcalf was happy with his team’s effort and said, “Playing hard is something we’re always gonna do. No matter what the scoreboard says, we’re going to play hard. We’re not going to hang our heads for getting beat. We’re going to continue to play to the standard of greatness that we expect as a program. Right now, the record doesn’t really reflect that. But our guys are playing their tails off, and I go to work for them. I love the guys in that locker room, and we’re gonna come back Sunday ready to work.”
Metcalf added that even the officials took notice of his players’ mindset. “The white hat head official came to me and said that a lot of times in games like this, guys will hang their head, guys will have bad body language, and he said, ‘You guys don’t do that,’ I said,
that’s who they are and that’s who they’re gonna continue to be. I got really tough kids, great kids, awesome kids,” he said.
With a running clock in the second half, Springville finally got on the board.
Trigg Murdoch’s 44-yard reception moved the Tigers to the Moody 21, setting up a 2-yard touchdown run by Archer. The Tigers made the score 55-7 with 29 seconds left in the third.
Moody’s Juju Hill stood out on both sides of the ball, scoring two rushing touchdowns and coming up with an interception late in the game. “It was fun to play both sides of the ball tonight, and it was exciting to be out there with my teammates,” Hill said. “After I dropped back, I saw and knew he was probably gonna throw it. Every other week, I work defense, and tonight I read the pass and caught the ball.”
Springville and Moody players pray together after their game. Credit: Henry Williamson
See MOODY, Page 16
Indians’ playoff hopes dashed on last-second Pell City field goal
By Johnny Sanders, Sports Editor
PELL CITY, Ala – The Pinson Valley Indians went to Pell City on Friday night with one final shot at a playoff spot on the line in James Thompson’s second year as head coach. Pell City, who was also in a must-win situation, kicked a field goal with a second left on the clock to punch their ticket to the postseason and shut the door on the Indians’ playoff hopes by a score of 24-21.
The Indians started the game on offense and it took them two plays to notch the game’s first points. Derrico Freeman hit Christian Thomas for a 61-yard pop on the first play to get the ball down to the one-yard line and running back Zion Moffett finished the drive with a oneyard touchdown run to make it 7-0 with just 43 seconds gone off of the clock.
Pell City would move the ball a bit slower than Pinson on their first drive of the game and they would finish the drive with a short touchdown run to even the score at seven with 8:02 to play in the opening period of the game.
On the next play from scrimmage, Freeman would find another target, this time TJ Calhoun, for a 60-yard strike to put Pinson up 14-7 with 7:49 to go in the first quarter.
When Pell City got the
With the region title secured, Moody earned the No. 1 playoff seed and homefield advantage. “We get the one seed so we get to play at home, and depending on how the bracket shakes out, you could play two or three games at home if you keep winning,” head coach Jake Ganus said. “That’s big, and you want the easiest path
we played tonight and we must continue to build on all the positive things,” he said.
ball back, Kaden Edwards stepped in front of a Panther pass and gave Freeman and company the ball back at the 5:52 mark of the quarter. Pinson would be unable to find paydirt on the drive and Pell City would take over.
The first quarter would end with Pinson holding a 14-7 lead, but the Panthers were knocking on the door.
On the first play of the second quarter, Pell City would hit an 11-yard pass to tie the game at 14 with 11:51 to go in the second quarter. Both defenses would begin to figure the other teams’ offense out and the teams would head into the locker room with the game still tied 14-14. Freeman would sit out both of Pinson’s drives in the quarter with a knee injury.
Pinson’s defense held strong on the first Pell City drive of the third and Freeman returned but could not engineer a successful drive for the Indians.
At the 4:37 mark of the third, Pell City would go up 21-14 over Pinson on a short touchdown run.
Pinson would answer, marching the ball down the field and Freeman would find RJ Addison on a seven-yard pass that saw the receiver make an impressive diving catch in the back of the end zone to tie the game at 21 each.
The defenses would once again tighten up with
possible. But really, we’re just focusing on Lincoln next week, and then we’ve got plenty of time for that.”
Metcalf is looking ahead to the Tigers’ senior night matchup against Center Point. “We’ve got Center Point coming to our place next week — it’ll be senior night for us — so we’re gonna do everything in our power to make sure those seniors go out the way they deserve because they play
“We played a really good playoff team tonight. We must keep learning through experience.”
Leeds (6-3, 3-3) is finished with region play, se-
Hewitt-Trussville volleyball captures first area title since 2010
Pinson’s Sidney Woods and Jaylon Lewis dominating the line as well as a big sack by Latrell Showers to keep Pell City out of the end zone.
Pinson got into field goal range, but the Jared Clark attempt was blocked.
The Indians would hold Pell City and get the ball back with around two minutes left to play. However, with 1:17 to play, Freeman threw an interception that would set Pell City up deep in Pinson territory.
The Panthers would get the ball down inside the 10yard line and with a single second to go in the game, they would hit a chip-shot field goal to end the game with a 24-21 win to get themselves into the playoffs and end playoff hopes for Pinson.
“Determination and hard work,” said Pinson coach James Thompson. “It was another tough game but the guys played really hard and I am proud of them for that. We know next week is Clay and they will get up for it because it’s a rival game and it is my job to get them up for it. This senior class is part of the foundation and they work hard and I am very proud of them.”
Pinson falls to 3-5 overall and 2-3 in the region. They will travel to ClayChalkville who just wrapped up the region championship next week.
their tails off week in and week out,” Metcalf said. “A lot of them are banged up right now, but we really want to make senior night a special night for them.”
Moody improves to 7-2 overall and 5-0 in region play. The Blue Devils travel to Lincoln next Friday for their regular-season finale. Springville drops to 1-7 and 0-5 in the region and will host Center Point next Friday.
curing fourth place, and will visit Pelham next week in a non-region finale. Center Point (1-6, 0-5) will close out region play next week with a trip to Springville.
From Tribune Staff Reports
TRUSSVILLE, Ala. –
The Hewitt-Trussville High School volleyball team made program history Thursday night, winning the Class 7A, Area 7 Championship for the first time since 2010.
The Huskies, now 26-11 overall, swept both of their tournament opponents to claim the title and advance to the 7A North Regional
Clay
From page 14
quarter, zoning in on Nasir Ray for a 54-yard touchdown with just :32 left on the clock.
next week.
Hewitt-Trussville opened play with a 3-0 semifinal win over Albertville, overcoming an 18-8 deficit in the first set to take control of the match. In the championship round, the Huskies defeated Vestavia Hills 3-0, sealing the area championship with a dramatic 27-25 victory in the final set.
Kayleigh Nguyen led the Huskies with a standout all-around performance —
totaling 60 assists, 13 digs, 8 kills, 3 aces, and 3 blocks. Johnna Cox added 27 kills, 10 digs, 2 aces, and a block, while Reese Wolfe recorded 19 kills. Christiana Callens anchored the defense with 20 digs and 2 aces, and Loren Purnell contributed 12 kills and 7 blocks.
Hewitt-Trussville will now shift focus to the AHSAA 7A North Regional, where they’ll look to continue their postseason run.
Frye spoke for himself to kick off the fourth quarter with a 1-yard trip to the endzone, his third touchdown of the night. The re-kick on the PAT secured the victory and the championship for the Cougars.
Huskies
From page 14
36–14 with 2:25 to play.
“We’d been running the ball well, so the defense started creeping up,” Benedict said. “I saw Dane oneon-one down the sideline, trusted him to make a play, and he did. It was good to end the game with a big throw like that.”
Oak Mountain added a late touchdown to make the final score 36–21.
“It was a great team win,” Benedict said. “We came out motivated after a couple of losses and knew we had to get back on track. The offensive line did a great job opening things up, and our defense made some big plays to help us out. We just wanted to execute and finish drives — and that’s what we did.”
“Tonight was about motivation — really getting the team back on track,” said Alston. “After two really tough losses that brought
“We were fortunate to not give them any easy touches, kickoffs and punts,” said Cougar Head Coach Stuart Floyd on the difference be-
the team down a little bit, now it’s about bringing the team’s emotion up and carrying it into next week and the playoffs.”
Head coach Josh Floyd said he was pleased with the win but still sees room for growth.
“We know we can play better,” Floyd said. “But I’m proud to get a win. It’s hard, and you don’t take it for granted. It’s hard to win in our region, especially on the road.”
Floyd credited Oak Mountain. “We knew these guys were going to play really well,” he said. “They’re a well-coached team. They’ve had some close games, and a few turnovers changed those outcomes. I’d like to see us finish a little better, but we found a way to win and get out of here.”
Floyd gave his quick take on Benedict’s performance.
“I thought Zach made some good throws,” Floyd said.
“We need to give him a little more time to throw. On the
tween this year’s game versus last year’s loss at Oxford. Next week, the Cougars take on Pinson Valley on Thursday for Senior night.
“We want to send them (seniors) out on a high note, they’ve laid the groundwork for what we’re building here,” says Floyd.
interception down there, we had a guy wide open in the end zone, but the ball got tipped and they ended up getting a pick. That cost us a touchdown. We’ve just got to do a better job scoring in the red zone.” Floyd pointed to injuries as a major factor in recent weeks. “We’ve had a lot of injuries, especially up front,” he said. “Our guys are battling, and I’m proud of them. We’re playing some younger guys who probably didn’t think they’d be playing yet this year, but they’re fighting hard.”
He praised the defensive play of the Huskies. “Our defense did a great job,” Floyd said. “The play by Woogie was huge — probably the play of the game if you ask me. I’m just proud of our guys.”
Hewitt-Trussville will celebrate Senior Night at home next Friday against Tuscaloosa County. A win secures the runner-up spot in the region.
