The Trussville Tribune – January 6 - 12, 2021

The Tribune

TRUSSVILLE • ARGO • MOODY • PINSON • CLAY • CENTER POINT • SPRINGVILLE LEEDS • MOODY • TRUSSVILLE • PINSON • CLAY • CENTER POINT • ARGO SPRINGVILLE • TRUSSVILLE • LEEDS • MOODY • PINSON • CLAY • CENTER POINT • ARGO • SPRINGVILLE • TRUSSVILLE • LEEDS • MOODY • PINSON CLAY CENTER POINT • ARGO • SPRINGVILLE • LEEDS • MOODY • TRUSSVILLE PINSON • CLAY • CENTER POINT • ARGO • SPRINGVILLE • ARGO • SPRINGVILLE PINSON • CLAY • CENTER POINT • ARGO • SPRINGVILLE • LEEDS • MOODY TRUSSVILLE • PINSON • CLAY • CENTER POINT • ARGO • SPRINGVILLE • LEEDS MOODY • TRUSSVILLE • PINSON·CLAY • CENTER POINT • ARGO SPRINGVILLE • LEEDS • MOODY • TRUSSVILLE • PINSON • CLAY • CENTER POINT • ARGO SPRINGVILLE • LEEDS • MOODY • TRUSSVILLE • PINSON • CENTER POINT TRUSSVILLE • ARGO • MOODY • PINSON • CLAY • CENTER POINT • SPRINGVILLE

By Erik Harris, sports editor

TRUSSVILLE — A new dining option will soon be available in Trussville.

After conducting a soft opening on Wednesday, Imperio Steakhouse & Grill will open its doors to the public for the first time on Monday, Jan. 4.

See IMPERIO, Page 3

Downtown Trussville business moving to Ashville

By Erica Thomas, managing editor

TRUSSVILLE — An auto service and repair shop that has been in downtown Trussville for 42 years is moving to the city of Ashville.

Trussville Auto & Truck, a general repair shop, closed its Trussville location in the 300 block of Main Street.

See AUTO REPAIR, Page 3

Springville Council moves online through January

By Terry Schrimscher

I don’t much care for making resolutions, particularly those of the New Year’s variety. In the past, I’ve made them with the best of intentions.

See CHAMBER, Page 3

SUN MON

TRUSSVILLE — There will be a groundbreaking ceremony for the new Trussville City Schools Central Office on Friday, Jan. 8, 2021.

School and city leaders will be on site of the new building, located on Highway 11, across from Winn Dixie.

The ceremony will begin at 1 p.m. and there will be no onsite parking available.

In November, Blalock Building Company was awarded the bid to construct the new building for just over $5 million.

Blalock Building Company was one of eleven contractors to bid for the project.

Construction will be financed through the state’s Public Schools and Colleges Authority (PSCA) bond, which allocated $1.2 billion statewide to stimulate the economy. TCS is expected to receive approximately $5.9 million. The money must be used on capital improvements and must be used within three years.

The new central office will be off Gadsden High-

45 36

44 31

44 27

48 31

48 27

50 29

5%

70%

20%

10%

20%

30%

10%

Food Scores

Scam Warning

Page 11

Page 6

50 Cents Trussville Police make arrest in connection to a dozen crimes involving parked vehicles

By Erica Thomas, managing editor

TRUSSVILLE — The Trussville Police Department made an arrest in connection to a string of property crimes including car break-ins that happened Dec. 20 – 27, 2020.

See CAR BREAK-INS, Page 4

Arrest made in connection to Blount County road rage death way, in what is known as the Hamilton Plaza development, across from Winn Dixie.

The two-story, approximately 20,000 square feet facility will include office space (administration, athletics, finance, facilities, etc.), a board room, training rooms, a family resource center and a technology department, according

to Ryan Vernon, an architect for Lathan Associates Architects, PC. The exterior of the building will include a combination of brick, precast concrete, aluminum storefront windows/doors, and a metal roof.

TCS said the building will provide a centralized space for Trussville City Schools’

(TCS) Central Office team, which currently works in three separate buildings throughout the city.

Construction of the office building will take approximately one year to complete.

The groundbreaking ceremony will be live-streamed to the TCS website at www. trussvillecityschools.com.

PLAY BALL: Moody Miracle League eyes spring season

By Erik Harris, sports editor

MOODY — The Moody Miracle League has been greatly missed by so many this year, as COVID-19 swept in and decided to stay.

The wait, however, might be coming to an end, according to one league board member.

Since its inception in Georgia more than 22 years ago, the Miracle League has provided special needs individuals of all ages an opportunity to play baseball in an organized league. An adaptive sports park, which is located at 670 Park Avenue, opened in Moody several years ago.

The Moody Miracle League serves St. Clair, Etowah, Jefferson, Shelby, Talladega, Blount and Calhoun counties. And according to board member Kim Sebastian, those services might be back in play soon. After nearly a year off due to complications created by coronavirus, the league’s board of directors is eying a spring return date.

“We plan to play a spring season, even if it’s a shorter season,” said Sebastian.

“Normally we start at the beginning of March, but we may push it back to April and only get two months in instead of the three months.”

Those plans are far from concrete, as public health

experts expect a COVID-19 spike in the wake of the holiday season. Sebastian expects the seven-member board to take a wait-and-see approach moving forward.

Safety modifications will be essential to the anticipated return.

“We’re going to implement hand sanitizers in the dugouts for players and try to wipe down bats in between usage and just try to be more clean than we were before COVID,” said Sebastian.

“We’re just kind of throwing around different thoughts, but we want to get them out there because we didn’t get to play at all last season.”

The league is also looking

www.robinshoppe.com

News - Pages 1-6 Calendar - Page 7 Classified - Page 7 Obituary - Page 8 Food Scores - Page 11 Sports - Pages 9-12

5886 Trussville Crossings Blvd 205.655.3388

16

-

From The Tribune staff reports

BLOUNT COUNTY — The Blount County Sheriff’s Office announced the arrest of a man in connection to a deadly road rage incident.

Michael Wayne Harris, 59, of Steele, is charged with murder.

See ROAD RAGE, Page 4

Whataburger now open in Leeds

into game day modifications that include sanitizing equipment and spacing out games.

“The hope is to play at least one or two months, even if we have to cut down the number of games we play on a Saturday so we’ll be able to clean up between games,” said Sebastian.

In January 2021, the league will begin gauging how many players are interested in participating. A typical season will see 150 to 170 players take the field.

Although financial hits have been taken, the Moody board believes another season is still in reach.

“We are wise with our money and we knew this was coming, so we were very lean on what we did this past year, so we do have enough money to carry us through next year,” said Sebastian.

Prior to the pandemic, the Moody Miracle League was approaching the funds needed to install a new turf field.

The current playing surface is more than 17 years old.

To donate to the league or to get involved, visit https:// moodymiracleleague.org.

Robin’s Sewing Shoppe

Inside the Tribune

TUE

55 38

From The Tribune staff reports

See SPRINGVILLE, Page 3

By June Mathews, Executive Director, Trussville Area Chamber of Commerce

SAT

Groundbreaking planned for $5 million TCS Central Office

SPRINGVILLE — In its final meeting of 2020, the Springville City Council met virtually due to risks associated with coronavirus. The regular meeting scheduled for December 21 was rescheduled to Monday, December 28, to accommodate the move online.

From the Chamber: 5 Reasons to shop local this year

FRI

www.TrussvilleTribune.com

January 6 - 12, 2021 Imperio Steakhouse & Grill open in Trussville

WED THU

From The Tribune staff reports

LEEDS — Whataburger fast-food restaurant is now open in Leeds. The new location opened on Monday, Jan. 4, 2021, at 1824 Ashville Road.

The restaurant has a stateof-the-art kitchen and dining room along with 120 employees.

See WHATABURGER, Page 4

Veteran Alabama lawman dies after COVID-19 battle BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (AP) — A veteran Alabama lawman who led the state’s department of public safety and Birmingham Police Department has died from complications linked to COVID-19.

See COPPAGE, Page 6

CASA FIESTA MEXICAN GRILL

5084 Pinnacle Sq Suite 112 Trussville

655-3530

Fabric Machines Classes Demos Trussville

•

Hoover

•

Fultondale

•

Cullman

The Trussville Tribune

Page 2

The

Trussville Tribune

January 6 - 12, 2021

Lane closure scheduled for I-20 WB in Leeds

190 Main Street Trussville, AL 35173 (205) 533-8664 Scott Buttram, Publisher publisher@trussvilletribune.com

Road Work From The Tribune staff reports

Erica Thomas, Managing Editor news@trussvilletribune.com

LEEDS — Motorists should expect delays this week on Interstate-20 in the Leeds area.

According to an announce-

Erik Harris, Sports Editor erik.harris@trussvilletribune.com SALES STAFF Ryan Jennings, Director of Advertising & Sales Shari Moore, Account Executive Meredith White, Account Executive Lauren Taylor, Traffic Coordinator OFFICE MANAGER Jana Mathews

Member of the Alabama Press Association

ment from the Alabama Department of Transportation, the right lane of I-20 westbound will be closed beginning at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 5 for clearing work between just east of the Brompton exit (Milepost 148) and

the Leeds exit (Milepost 140).

ALDOT says travel lanes are expected to re-open at approximately 5 p.m. on Tuesday.

This same lane closure will be in place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan.

6 through Friday, Jan. 8.

Motorists are requested to consider using alternate routes, adjust arrival/departure times, observe work zone speed limits and other work zone signs, and use extreme caution in this area.

Free legal advice available for low-income Alabama From The Tribune staff reports

MONTGOMERY — The Alabama Free Legal Answers program is assisting low-income residents to navigate legal issues.

The program offers free, qualified legal advice online. The website Alabama.

FreeLegalAnswers.org gives users the ability to pose civil legal questions to attorneys.

The attorneys, who volunteer, provide answers.

Users must meet income eligibility guidelines listed on the website.

To help low-income Alabama residents navigate civil legal issues, Alabama Free Legal Answers program provides free qualified legal advice through the website https://alabama.freelegalanswers.org/. The website gives eligible users the ability to

pose civil legal questions to volunteer attorneys and receive answers on the site. The users of the service must meet income eligibility guidelines that are available on the site.

The continuing COVID-19 pandemic impacts low-income people with unemployment, loss of income and housing issues that may present legal questions that could be answered on the website.

For those who cannot afford

an attorney and have nowhere else to turn, Alabama Free Legal Answers serves as a critical resource for qualified legal advice.

Examples of topics that may generate legal questions include: • Landlord Tenant Issues • Consumer Debt Problems • Family and Children • Foreclosure • Employment • Estates and Wills

Keith Landscape Co. & Nursery Sales 36 Years Serving Clay, Trussville & Surrounding Communities

OUR NURSERY OFFERS ALL TYPES OF

MULCH – GRAVEL – STONE – PEA GRAVEL SAND – PINE STRAW (ROLLS OR BALES) We provide professional advice on anything landscape!

§ § § § § § § § § §

Plants/Shrubs Trees Bedding plants Fertilizers Herbicides Screened topsoil Blended garden soil Fill dirt Chert Red rock

We deliver or load on your truck!

WE SELL SOD

BY THE PIECE OR BY THE PALLET! Our sod is green during growing season, not left on pallets.

Monday - Friday 8am-4pm Saturday 8am-12pm

William E. Bright, Jr. Attorney at Law

Divorce - Domestic Relations - Child Support Collection - Bankruptcy Criminal Law - DUI HOA - Condo Litigation Auto - Personal Injury

“Trusted Council in troubled times” Recognized in ‘Business Alabama’ as one of Alabama’s top Lawyers for the past three years in a row.

www.KeithLandscaping.com

6750 Trussville-Clay Rd. - Trussville, AL (205) 681.8787

Over 40 Years Experience

6647 Green Dr Suite 107 Trussville, Al 35173 Call Bill for a free consultation

205-655-9284

*No representation is made that the quality of legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.

January 6 - 12, 2021

The Trussville Tribune

Local / Region

2 killed in Jefferson County crashes identified From the Tribune staff reports

JEFFERSON COUNTY — The new year in Jefferson County began with two traffic fatalities in separate crashes overnight.

Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office Sgt. Joni Money said shortly after 2 a.m. on Friday, January 1, 2021 Jefferson County Sheriff’s Deputies were called to the 1000 Block of Eastern Valley Road to investigate reports that a vehicle had slid off the roadway and struck a home.

“Once on the scene, Depu-

ties found a 26-year-old black male inside the vehicle,” Money said. “Once he was removed from the vehicle, it was determined that he was deceased. No one in the home was injured in the incident.”

Deandre Martez Chambers, 26, of Bessemer, was identified as the victim.

At approximately the same time, Deputies were also called to the 6600 Block of Pocahontas Road on reports that a pedestrian had been struck by a vehicle.

“Deputies responded to find that a female had gotten out of a vehicle and attempt-

ed to cross Pocahontas Road,” Money said. “She stepped in front of an oncoming car and was struck. She was pronounced dead at the scene.”

Pamela Deanne Donahoo, 53, of Bessemer, was identified as the victim.

The driver of the oncoming vehicle remained on the scene and is fully cooperating with the investigation.

Jefferson County Detectives are continuing the investigations in both incidents.

Money said the Jefferson County Coroner’s Office will verify cause and manner of the deaths.

ness and support through the years,” Pepper added. I’ve worked on what would now be grandparent’s, parent’s and children’s cars. We’ve watched these children grow and become parents themselves and it’s been a blessing for us to have served the people in Trussville and the great people who have become friends. We have shared a lot of experience and prayers over the years.”

Trussville Auto & Truck has been in operation since 1979. The Peppers took over

the business on Jan. 1, 1985.

They do service, maintenance, alignments and tires. Derrell Pepper is also an ASE Certified Master Technician. He says he wants the people of Ashville to know he fixes cars the way he would want his own car fixed.

“We’re an auto repair shop that they can trust and depend on,” said Pepper. “Our slogan for many years has been, ‘Skill, Integrity and Service’ and that’s not going to change.”

The Peppers will change the name of the shop but have not decided on a name yet.

They are currently in the process of getting the new shop in Ashville set up for business.

It will be located at 554 5th Street, Ashville.

But here’s how we can help: RESOLVE TO SHOP LOCAL IN 2021.

And here are 5 reasons we should: 1. Shopping local keeps more of your money in your hometown economy.

Did you know that for every $100 spent at locally owned businesses, $68 will stay in the community? On the other hand, spend that same $100 at a national chain, and only $43 stays in the community. So before you buy that gift or shop for groceries, stop and think: Where had you rather your money go? To your community? Or someone else’s?

2. Shopping local keeps more of your tax dollars working for you.

Funding government services like police and fire services, education and health services, libraries and road maintenance takes money, much of which comes from local sales taxes. While many of these services receive federal funds in the form of grants, local tax dollars are their bread and butter. So shopping local is an investment in your community’s overall quality of life.

3. Shopping local supports businesses found only in your community.

Look around at the businesses in your area that aren’t part of national chains or franchises. It’s those businesses

that give your town its unique character, an elusive quality you won’t find anywhere else.

That kind of charm doesn’t happen by itself, and it begins with small business owners dedicated to being the best at what they do and to the community they serve.

4. Shopping local creates jobs While shopping locally creates jobs for the people who own and work for the business es you choose to patronize, it

also supports a bigger employ ment picture. It helps build a that busy, thriving community

ultimately requires teachers,

firemen, police officers, and

other professionals to function.

5. When you shop local, you invest in entrepreneur ship

Some of the hardest working, savviest, and most creative individuals I know are small business owners. They have a passion for what they do, and the brand of entrepreneurship they represent is the basis on which the American economy was founded. And when it comes to community causes, small business owners are always among the first to contribute.

So as the new year begins, please join me in supporting local merchants. You and your community will benefit.

RESOLVE TO SHOP LOCAL IN 2021.

Auto Repair From front page

The move came after the property was sold and the landowner gave owners Derrell and Dorren Pepper notice to be out by Dec. 31, 2020.

“We were leasing the property and with the development in downtown Trussville, some land developers purchased the property from the owners,” said Derrell Pepper.

Although it wasn’t his choice to leave, Pepper said many of his customers have voiced their appreciation for the business. He said some have vowed to make the drive to Ashville to continue doing business with him.

“I want them to know how much I appreciate their busi-

Chamber From front page

Only to discover somewhere around the second week of January that keeping them is taking way more effort than they’re worth. So for several years now, I’ve skipped the whole New Year’s resolutions routine.

But this year, I feel compelled to make at least one resolution, and not just for my own benefit, but for the sake of my community as well.

As anybody who’s been halfway paying attention knows, 2020 was a particularly tough year for local retailers due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Shutdown orders that left big box stores open and quarantines that contributed to a rise in online shopping diverted business away from the little guys and compounded the difficulties of maintaining a small business in a world geared toward one-stop shopping and one-click convenience.

Page 3

Springville

Due to the change in meeting dates, the council retroactively approved Resolution 2020-41, designating Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve as official paid holidays for city employees.

In new business, the council approved several items addressed in the December 14 work session. The council approved the expenditure of up to $1,700 to pump grease out of sewer lift stations. The process is considered routine maintenance and is covered by sewer fees. The council also approved $8,000 for pre-

ventive maintenance on city fire trucks.

One new agenda item was added to allow the Springville Library to spend $5,000 of technology grant funds with $1,250 coming from a local matching grant. The expenditure will be reimbursed by an Alabama Public Library Grant but the money has to be spent by the end of the year to receive the grant funding.

Due to ongoing safety precautions surrounding the spike in coronavirus cases, city offices are closed to walk-in traffic but staff will be available for phone, email and internet meetings.

Drive-through services are still open, where applicable.

City Council, zoning and other committee meetings will be virtual through the end of January.

hard and do our best.”

Keep up with restaurant hours, menu items and much

more by searching “Imperio Steakhouse & Grill” on Facebook.

From front page

During the meeting, Fire Chief Richard Harvey detailed some of the COVID-19 statistics for St. Clair County and the rest of Alabama. According to the State of Alabama Department of Public Health, St. Clair County has confirmed 975 positive cases in the last 14 days. Currently, the department lists 50,954 confirmed cases in the state over the same period. To date, the state lists 351,804 total cases and 4,737 deaths since data tracking began.

In total, St. Clair County has 67 confirmed deaths from the virus and four more are listed as probable, according to Harvey. The county is listed as a high-risk area by the department.

Imperio From front page

Staff members say the restaurant will be open from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m.

Owner Alex Muniz hosted Trussville city personnel, including fire and police department employees, for Wednesday’s soft opening. Muniz’s menu is expected to feature steaks, burgers, wings, TexMex options, oysters, mozzarella sticks, soups and salads.

The restaurant, which is located at the intersection of Service Road and Chalkville Mountain Lane (behind Krystal), also features a full bar that is adorned with four television sets. Several TVs can also be found throughout the dining room.

“The location is great but good food and service is the big thing,” said Muniz. “Also, being very clean is important to us and we just have to work

ROBIN’S SEWING SHOPPE

New Air Threading Overlockers.

Threading has never been easier!

48 months financing with BERNINA credit card.

No Interest, Fixed Payments

7018 Gadsden Hwy St 116 Trussville 205-602-1679 We have a great staff of barbers with over 100 combined years of experience cutting hair.

Cathy Chapple 44 yrs • Jay Shirley 44 yrs • Joni Poore 19 yrs

Owners: Greg & Beverly England

5886 Trussville Crossings Blvd Birmingham, AL 35235 205-655-3388

The Trussville Tribune

Page 4

CRIME STOPPERS: Leeds man wanted on drug charge Name: Gender: DOB: Height: Hair: Photo: Crime Stoppers of Metro Alabama.

Roy Michael Perry is wanted in JEFFERSON COUNTY on a felony warrant charging him with Unlawful Distribution of a Con-

PERRY, ROY MICHAEL Race: Male Age: 07/18/1974 Weight: 5ft7in Eyes: Blonde

trolled Substance.

Wanted as of 12/28/2020 Last Known Address: 1600 BLOCK ALLEN ST, LEEDS, AL 35094 Wanted By: BHAM CT DIV, JCSO

Caucasian 46 145 Green

If you have information on the whereabouts of Perry, you are asked to call Crime Stoppers of Metro Alabama at (205) 254-7777. You will remain anonymous and could be eligible for a cash reward.

Trussville PD seize firearms, drugs from Homewood residence

By Erica Thomas, managing editor

TRUSSVILLE — The Trussville Police Department arrested two people and seized firearms, pills and fentanyl patches after executing a search warrant at a residence in Homewood.

Members of the Trussville Police Department’s Special Response Team (SRT), Direct Enforcement Unit (DEU) and the Homewood Police Department’s Narcotics Unit, conducted a search at the residence in the 100 block of Aspen Valley, on Tuesday, Dec. 22, 2020.

Items seized from Homewood residence on Tuesday, Dec. 22, 2020. Photo: Trussville Police Department.

January 6 - 12, 2021

Road Rage From front page

The incident happened between 4:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 2, 2020. Investigators said Dakota Nunley, 22, was shot and killed on Highway 75, near First Baptist Church Remlap.

Deputies said the shooting involved two white Dodge trucks and a Toyota 4Runner, which was driven by the suspect.

Sheriff Mark Moon pleaded to the public for help identifying the suspect, who he said fled the scene.

“We finally got the break we needed,” said Moon. “We were able to, through some technology help from other law enforcement agencies,

Car Break-Ins From front page

Nicholas Xavier Waller, 20, of Birmingham, is facing multiple charges after investigators obtained surveillance video from a resident on Dawn’s Way and identified him as a suspect.

Waller is in the Jefferson County Jail on four charges of unlawful breaking and entering of a vehicle, three charges of credit or debit card theft third-degree, one charge of possession of a controlled substance and one charge of trafficking in stolen identities.

He was given bonds totaling $115,000.

Police made the arrest after releasing the surveillance video that Chief Eric Rush said

able to get a suspect.”

Moon said after changing his story several times during the interview, Harris eventually confessed to the crime.

“Once we got him in the interview room and really laid the evidence out to him and showed him what we had, he broke down and told us what happened,” Moon explained.

The evidence included dash camera video from drivers in the area, cell phone data and eye witness accounts.

was a great example of why it is important for residents to keep their cars locked. In the video, the suspect was unable to get inside parked cars because they were locked.

“This video is a perfect example of why all vehicles parked outside during the night should be locked,” said Rush. “It is 4 a.m., the suspect simply isn’t going to risk making noise by breaking a window when he knows that people are home and the noise may awaken them. Unfortunately, he did find some that morning that were not locked and items were stolen.”

At least three vehicles were accessed that morning and items such as wallets, credit cards and driver’s li-

Whataburger Brandon Rashad Ross (left) and Elizabeth Ann Lee (right).

Photo: Trussville Police Department.

Inside the home, detectives reported finding six firearms, fentanyl patches, Xanax bars, Ecstasy pills and drug paraphernalia.

Arrested from the home and taken to the Trussville City Jail were Brandon Rashad Ross, 30, and Elizabeth Ann Lee, 43, both of Homewood.

Ross was charged with drug trafficking, possession of drug paraphernalia and certain persons forbidden to

possess a pistol. He was transferred to the Jefferson County Jail on Dec. 23 and was given $75,500 in bonds. Ross bonded out of jail on Dec. 24.

Lee was charged with possession of a controlled substance. She was transferred to the Jefferson County Jail on Dec. 23 and was given a bond of $10,000. Lee bonded out of jail on Dec. 24.

Both Ross and Lee are considered innocent unless proven guilty.

e f

d

d

From front page

General Manager Dorothea Williams will lead the team to serve up customized burgers in the dining room, in the drive-thru and with curbside pickup or delivery.

Whataburger Regional Director of Operations Jeff Simpson said the city of Leeds offers the perfect atmosphere for the brand, which is known for serving “hometown fun” with a focus on great customer service.

“As we continue to grow our Whataburger Family in Alabama, we couldn’t be more

/ Repairs d / Custom Buildout / Laptop Repairs d / Security / Data Backup d / New and Used f eComputer Sales

Photo: Whataburger Facebook page.

excited to open our doors to new neighbors in Leeds,” said Simpson. “We’re so glad to be a part of this wonderful community and look forward to welcoming guests to the first restaurant in our newest hometown.”

Founded more than 70 years ago, Whataburger has

The sheriff thanked other law enforcement agencies, the public and the media for helping with the case. He also addressed the victim’s family.

“To Dakota’s family, I can’t even begin to imagine the nightmare that you’ve been through and I just want you to know that we love you and we are so thankful for your support through all this,” Moon said. “You have been very patient and kind to us.”

Harris was placed in the Blount County Jail on a $100,000 bond. He was released on Dec. 22 and was ordered to surrender all firearms. He has a hearing on Jan. 6 and the case will be sent to a grand jury on Jan. 25, according to court documents.

Photo: Jefferson County Jail.

censes were stolen, according to police reports.

In all, 12 people reported similar incidents between Dec. 20 and Dec. 27. The incidents were reported on Trace Way, Annette Street, Dawns Way, Trace Circle, Brentwood Avenue and Rockridge Avenue.

The surveillance video can be viewed in this story online at www.TrussvilleTribune.com.

grown to more than 840 locations across 10 states, operating 24/7, 364 days a year.

Newsweek ranked Whataburger second on its 2021 list of America’s Best Customer Service brands in the Fast Food category. The brand also ranked No. 8 in Foursquare’s 2019 QSR Loyalty Index.

Those interested in working at Leeds’ first Whataburger location can get information on Whataburger’s competitive benefits and salaries, great opportunities for career dvancements and other employee resources for growth and development at whataburger. com/careers.

BIRMINGHAM NORTH

5950 Chalkville Mountain Rd Suite 102

205-508-6077

Known for Prompt Service & Reputation www.magiccc.com 205-655-2848 7129 Gadsden Hwy Suite 203, Trussville

MURDOCK

TIRE & AUTO REPAIR

Tires & Complete Car Care Service NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS!

Babies Don’t Come with Instructions…

We’re Here to Help!

(205)856-4440

totsnteenspediatrics.com

3729 Mary Taylor Rd. / Birmingham, AL 35235

JAMES R MUNDY JR, AGENT 5280 Old Springville Rd Ste 100 Pinson, AL 35126 Bus: 205-854-0123 jim.mundy.B15E@statefarm.com NeighborhoodofGood.com

ALWAYS AT A GREAT PRICE YOU CHOOSE STYLE & FABRIC

5715 Chalkville Road Birmingham, Al 35235 205.853.1066 Facebook.com/bettsace

HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING

Serving the Birmingham Metro Area, Jefferson, Shelby, St. Clair and Blount Counties

BARNETT FURNITURE 6961 Gadsden Hwy

205-655-7049

www.barnettfurniture.com Facebook/barnettfurniture

SERVICE SHEET METAL INSTALLATION

655-5130

5071 Cardinal Street - Trussville

Follow us on Facebook for deals on Oil Changes & Tires!

5700 Chalkville Mtn Rd

205-844-5600

The Trussville Tribune

January 6 - 12, 2021

Page 5

Live local, eat local is the philosophy at Farmhouse of Springville

By Susan Swagler, Alabama Newscenter

For Ryan Zargo, the chef-owner of Farmhouse of Springville, the idea of local is serious business. It’s personal, too. That’s exactly why he opened his fresh, new restaurant near where he lives.

“I’m local,” he says. “I grew up in Trussville; I live in Odenville. I’m very passionate about food, and … there’s just not a very big variety of food out in this area. … It’s something I’ve been wanting to do for a while, just bring that variety of … fresh food to the people in this area.

“Business has been good,” he says. “Reception from the community has been great.

I’m just glad to be a part of the Springville community.”

The restaurant, just off Interstate 59, is the realization of a long-held dream for Zargo. But the chef took an interesting, detour-filled journey to get where he is today.

Just out of high school, Zargo tried out for a semipro baseball team. He spent time in south Florida playing ball until a shoulder injury cut short that career. After rehabbing that injury, he joined the Marine Corps and served his country for four years.

It was after his time in the military when a television ad for classes at Culinard Culinary School caught his attention. So Zargo, who grew up with a hands-on appreciation for freshness that comes from

a family garden and food made at home from scratch, decided on a new career track.

“When I find something I enjoy doing,” he says, “I take it and I run with it.”

After finishing culinary school, Zargo worked at The Fish Market on Southside, where he says owner George Sarris taught him general restaurant management and how to handle high volume.

He also worked at The Club, where the chefs helped him hone his skills in French techniques and fine dining.

Along the way, he worked at barbecue and meat-and-three restaurants. He spent the past five years as executive chef at Bellinis Ristorante, putting it all together. But he always wanted his own place.

So, after 15 years in the food industry, Zargo opened his Southern-style Farmhouse. He describes it as “family owned and locally operated; we have a little bit of something for everybody – from barbecue to seafood to a good old-fashioned burger to steak.”

Farmhouse of Springville has been open for about six months but already has a local following. It’s attracting customers from Birmingham and Gadsden, too. The restaurant, with its certified Angus 8-ounce filet and 16-ounce ribeye, was named “Best Steak Restaurant” by the Trussville Tribune.

Those steaks are one good reason to visit; the chicken is another. That’s because they, like lots of things here, benefit from Zargo’s solid techniques with a smoker. The steaks are “cold smoked” before grilled; so is the salmon. It’s a technique Zargo picked up at The Club. He even cold smokes the Gouda for his mac and cheese. The result is a layer of flavors including notes of wood. The rich, mouthwatering scent of hardwood smoke surrounding ingredients is one of the first things visitors notice. It originates in a small shed out the restaurant’s back door.

While simple salt and pepper will go a long way, Zargo isn’t afraid to mix things up in his kitchen. Even the breading for the fried homemade pickles is a subtly complex combination of about 20 ingredients, including celery seed, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, onion powder and a touch of confectioners’ sugar.

This sort of mixture makes the fried okra and green tomatoes special, too. It’s the kind of thing that sets a restaurant apart; Zargo says he’s simply trying to bring something different to the Springville area.

“I like building layers of flavors.”

Of course, this kind of detail takes time. Sometimes days.

The restaurant’s awardwinning pastrami is brined

for three days with cinnamon, ginger, bay leaves and a Marsala pickle spice, among others. Then it’s dry rubbed with similar spices, rested for 24 hours and hot smoked for 12 more hours. The smoked chicken, which is one of the most popular items on the menu, also takes time. It is bathed for a day in a simple brine of brown sugar and salt, then dry rubbed to sit for another day before being smoked for three hours.

Zargo uses the chicken for dishes like the popular “mid-night chicken Cuban,” where he layers pulled smoked chicken with avocado, smoked provolone, chipotle-caramelized onions, spicy mayonnaise and homemade pickles.

Burgers, made with certified Angus beef that’s ground in-house, are another favorite here, and there are several options, including a classic farmhouse burger, another with melted blue cheese and another with smoked Gouda sauce, honey-glazed onion rings, and sweet and spicy barbecue sauce.

There are soups, salads, catfish, shrimp and grits and pan-seared grouper, too.

Farmhouse, as the name implies, is about using the best of what’s fresh and locally grown, and sometimes that means produce straight from Zargo’s own 1,000-squarefoot backyard vegetable garden where he grows cucumbers, peppers, tomatoes and squash.

What he doesn’t grow, he tries to source locally from producers like Allman Farms & Orchards in Oneonta. He gets extra tomatoes from nearby Sand Mountain. Zargo relies on quality meats and fresh Gulf seafood from Evans Meats & Seafood.

“We really have a passion for what we do,” he says.

“We try to provide a variety of things – very fresh and flavorful food – for everybody.”

Word has gotten out, business is steady and customers range from lunching ladies to datenight couples.

“They’ve been great,” Zargo says. “And especially at the opening, they really came out and supported us.

We’ve been real thankful for that. We still get a lot of regulars coming in. It’s been a real supportive community, and we’re trying to … get more involved … trying to get out and do things for the community to give back.” He says they are starting small but doing what they can, donating to

the nearby schools and a food pantry. “We donated to (the food pantry) for the holidays and are going to continue trying to donate and keep it stocked for the people in need through the holidays.”

Zargo figures that his entire career up to now has prepared him for owning his restaurant. Ingredients in his success are the dedication, commitment to hard work and a deeply instilled affinity for teamwork that gave Zargo the confidence to pursue a professional sports career and then led him to serve our country.

The teamwork, he says, is especially important.

“I’m real team-oriented,” he says. “You know … I don’t look at certain positions in my kitchen … A lot of people say, ‘Here’s your grill cook, your fry cook.’ We have those, but we’re all a team; we all have got to help each other. That’s what I relate to a lot. That teamwork. That feeling of camaraderie.”

Check out the photos below and video online at www.

TrussvilleTribune.com.

Farmhouse of Springville 85 Purple Heart Blvd.

Springville, Alabama 35146 https://www.springvilleamericanrestaurant.com 205-839-9901 Hours Tuesday through Saturday, 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Sunday, 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Closed Monday

H AS YO U R

electric heat pump L E F T YO U I N T H E

cold?

Make the switch to a natural gas furnace and receive a

$500 rebate.

VISIT TRUSSVILLE.COM OR CALL 205.655.3211 FOR MORE INFORMATION. FINANCING AVAILABLE WITH APPROVED CREDIT.

The Trussville Tribune

Page 6

January 6 - 12, 2021

Trussville PD warns about Birmingham PD mourns loss of retired officer injured gift card scam after resident becomes victim in line of duty 25 years ago From The Tribune staff reports

BIRMINGHAM — The Birmingham Police Department reports retired officer Randall Versie Smith passed away on Monday, Dec. 29, 2020.

Smith, affectionately known as “Randy,” began his career with the Birmingham Police Department on Jan. 4, 1988. On March 22, 1995, Smith, along with other officers, responded to a domestic dispute in Ensley.

While responding to the call for service, Smith heroical-

Randall Smith

ly rescued a toddler during a domestic incident involving a person with a gun.

Smith was accidentally

wounded by the gunfire from a fellow officer, according to the department. Due to the injuries sustained, Smith was unable to return to duty. He medically retired from the Birmingham Police Department on Feb. 2, 1996.

According to BPD, Smith recently suffered a fall at his home resulting in his hospitalization. He passed away on Monday, Dec. 29, 2020.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that all donations be sent to the Alabama Concerns of Police Survivors located at 1010 Halsey Avenue NE, Huntsville, Ala. 35801.

Truck stolen from Trussville driveway, thefts reported from other vehicles in area

By Erica Thomas, managing editor

TRUSSVILLE — The Trussville Police Department is investigating three incidents involving vehicles parked at homes in Trussville, including one truck that was stolen. The vehicle owners reported the incidents to police on Sunday, Jan. 3, 2020.

The first call came in from a victim on Edgeview Lane.

A .380 pistol, a Venmo debit card and a Southern Linc phone were taken from a truck parked in the owner’s driveway. The owner told police he left his truck unlocked and parked in his driveway overnight.

The victim said someone charged $35 to his Venmo card at Waffle House in

Center Point. Detectives are working the case and the person responsible could face charges of unlawful breaking and entering a vehicle, theft of property second-degree and fraudulent use of a credit/ debit card.

Just 30 minutes after taking a report from the first victim, police were called to a home nearby, on Fairlane Drive. The victim told police someone stole items from his unlocked, parked vehicle. The items reported stolen included two purses, one containing two gold bracelets, a diaper bag and a $50 Olive Garden gift card. The keys to the vehicle were left inside the car and were not taken.

No suspects have been identified but the person responsible in the case could

face charges of unlawful breaking and entering a vehicle and theft of property third-degree.

A few hours later, a truck was reported stolen from Dogwood Lane. The owner told police he left his house for lunch and when he returned, he noticed his 1989 GMC C1500 was gone from his driveway. The victim also reported several items were taken from his garage.

The person or persons responsible for taking the truck could face charges of theft of property first-degree and burglary second-degree.

Trussville detectives have not determined if the cases are related but would like anyone with information or video from the area to call them at (205) 655-2101.

By Erica Thomas, managing editor

TRUSSVILLE — The Trussville Police Department is once again warning residents about scammers asking people to buy gift cards after one resident became a victim.

The victim reported a person posing as an employee with Apple on a phone call.

The victim told police she was trying to update her payment method with Apple when a scammer called her and asked her to purchase two Target gift cards. The victim went to Publix, purchased the gift cards for $400 and $500 and gave the caller the gift card numbers, before realizing the scheme.

Police Chief Eric Rush said this type of scam is not uncommon.

“It is important for people to be aware of these scams,” Rush said. “Scammers are often asking people for gift cards because they know you won’t be able to get your money back.”

According to the FTC, other kinds of scammers, some

Coppage From front page

Chief William Michael “Mike” Coppage had been fighting the coronavirus for several weeks before succumbing on Friday, AL.com reported. He was 71.

Coppage formerly served as chief of the Birmingham Police Department, director of the Alabama Department of Public Safety, Director of Public Safety and Emergency Management at Samford University, and as an Irondale city councilman.

PROTECT YOUR MOST VALUABLE ASSETS...

Call Vulcan to help protect your home, health & property!

WILD L IF E ?

Contact Us at 663-4200 or online at www.vulcantermite.com

TERMITE &

PEST CONTROL INC

Serving the State of Alabama Since 1965 Pelham, AL 35124

of them also imposters, who might demand payment by gift card include: • callers pretending to be from a utility company, telling you to pay your bill by gift card or they’ll cut off your power or water • sellers on online auction sites who ask for gift cards to “buy” big items like cars, motorcycles, boats, RVs, tractors and electronics • someone posing as a servicemember to get your sympathy, saying he has to sell something quickly before deployment and needs you to pay by gift card • callers who say you’ve won a so-called prize, for a sweepstakes you probably never entered – but first, you have to use a gift card

to pay fees or other charges • someone buying something from you, probably online, who sends a check for more than the purchase price – and asks you to give them the difference on a gift card. (That check, by the way, will turn out to be fake.)

Target says its gift cards can only be used at Target stores and on Target.com, and cannot be used to purchase other prepaid or specialty gift cards. Furthermore, Target says no legitimate government entity or business will accept any form of gift cards as payment.

If you think you’ve been the victim of a gift card scam, report it to the Federal Trade Commission at ftccomplaintassistant.gov.

“Mike was not just a great leader but was an amazing public servant. During my tenure as chief, he was extremely supportive and was quick to offer a word of encouragement,’’ said former Birmingham Police Chief A.C. Roper. “He understood the mantle of leadership and his legacy will live on throughout the metropolitan area.”

Coppage spent most of his adult life in public service, beginning with a stint in the U.S. Army where he was a military police officer and a criminal investigator from 1970 to 1974.

Under Coppage’s leadership, Birmingham experienced double-digit reductions in the city’s overall crime during his first two years in office and five years of consecutive declines including a 15-year low in overall crime

rates in 2001. In 2003, Coppage was named as the colonel of the Alabama Department of Public Safety. He resigned from his state post in 2006 and returned to Irondale.

In 2007, he was appointed to the Irondale City Council to fill a vacancy but did not seek reelection for the seat.

In 2009, Coppage was named director of Public Safety and Emergency Management at Samford University. He remained in that position until his retirement in February 2012.

“He was a mentor and a great leader,’′ said Fultondale Police Chief D.P. Smith, who worked with Coppage for more than 20 years and shared a friendship beyond policing. “You could always go to him when you had problems. He had great direction and ideas on how to serve the public.”

Man dies 3 days after mobile home fire in Irondale From The Tribune staff reports

IRONDALE — The Irondale Fire Department and the Irondale Police Department are investigating following a mobile home fire.

Martin Moreno, 57, was found outside of the mobile home around 11 p.m. on

Monday, Dec. 28, 2020. The mobile home was located in the 1600 block of Trailer Lane, in Irondale.

Moreno was transported to UAB Hospital where he died at 9:34 p.m. on Dec. 31, according to Jefferson County Coroner Bill Yates.

The cause and origin of the fire remain under investigation.

Our attorneys can help you.

Whenever you need legal assistance, turn to our attorneys.

663-4200 They can assist with situations involving: CALL

www.VulcanTermite.com

•Family law •Personal injury •Estate planning •Contractor fraud •Criminal defense

Full Traditional Funeral Service Including Casket

David R. Blount - Sharon D. Davis - Leslee F. Hughes - A. Scott Hughes

Whether you need a criminal defense attorney or a personal injury attorney, turn to our law firm. Call now for immediate assistance.

7127 GADSDEN HIGHWAY SUITE 207 TRUSSVILLE, AL 35173

205-383-1875 No representation is made that the quality of legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of services performed by other lawyers.

$3,999

See the difference Deerfoot Memorial Funeral Home can make.

Choose Quality. Choose Affordability.

205-655-3444

5360 Deerfoot Parkway – Trussville, AL

DeerfootMemorialFuneralHome.com

The Trussville Tribune

January 6 - 12, 2021

Calendar

Dress Up Your Pet Day January 4 - January 14

(All ages) Celebrate National Dress Up Your Pet Day with us on January 14th! Email photos of your dressed up pet before 01/14 to be featured on our social media. The pet photos with the most “likes” on our Facebook, Instagram, & Twitter accounts will win prizes!

Send photos to request@ pinsonlibrary.com You must send your photos BEFORE 01/14 to compete.

Venue Pinson Public Library Family Fun Packs January 4 @ 10:00 am - January 9 @ 12:00 pm

(All ages) Register for a Family Fun Pack! Each pack includes a mini-game to play together, microwave popcorn, & other goodies.

Register here: https:// forms.gle/751JWFPHi9yQBKTe8 Venue Pinson Public Library Sticker Sacks January 11 @ 10:00 am - January 16 @ 5:00 pm (All ages)

Register for a Sticker Sack! Each sack includes a variety of fun stickers in celebration of National Sticker Day! Register here: https:// forms.gle/vh9vDXo3BhVQK2b96

You will be notified when your supplies are ready for pickup. Pickup time availability may vary. Once you have been notified that your craft is ready, you may then visit the library for pickup.

Curbside Hours for Pickup: Monday – Friday 10 AM to 5 PM Saturday 10 AM to 12 PM Venue Pinson Public Library Birmingham Restaurant Week 2021 – Winter Edition January 14 - January 31

Cold Weather? Oh it’s snow problem! Birmingham Restaurant Week (BRW) is back for Winter and is bringing the heat!

Presented by Spire,

BRW Winter Edition is happening January 14-31, 2021. Support Birmingham’s Premier Culinary and Beverage event with Curbside and To-Go options as well as traditional, but limited, dine-in options, as safety precautions are still being mandated.

Patio seating will also be available for those visiting restaurants with outdoor heaters. Family-Style Meal options will also be offered on BRW menus this year.

Consider BRW Winter Edition a holiday after the holidays! Put down your cooking utensils and call off the diet – you deserve to indulge.

From fine dining to down-home cookin’, food and drink lovers with a taste for adventure can enjoy special breakfast, lunch or dinner 2 and 3-course, prix-fixe menus ranging from $5 to $50 per person at approximately 50 restaurants. Whether you’re trying something new or enjoying a longtime favorite, this 18-day event makes it easy and affordable for patrons to sip and savor the flavor of Birmingham’s acclaimed and diverse culinary and cocktail culture. Keeping bellies full, hearts happy and restaurants cookin’ is something everyone can contribute toward during BRW 2021 – Winter Edition!

Hungry for more information? Visit www. bhamrestaurantweek. com!

Page 7

Classified Call (205) 533-8664

SERVICES ADVERTISE STATEWIDE or by Region in over 100 Newspapers, reaching over 1 million readers each week! Run your ad in our Classified Network for just $210 per week! Make one call to this newspaper (participating Alascan newspaper) or call 1-800-264-7043 to find out how easy it is to advertise statewide!

BEST SATELLITE TV with 2 Year price Guarantee! $59.99/mo. with 190 Channels and 3 months free premium movie channels! Free next day installation! Call 1-855-9431314.

HEALTH/BEAUTY ATTENTION DIABETICS! Save money on your diabetic supplies! Convenient home shipping for monitors, test strips, insulin pumps, catheters and more! To learn more call now 1-855-504-9031.

OXYGEN - ANYTIME. Anywhere. No tanks to refill. No deliveries. The All-New Inogen One G4 is only 2.8 pounds! FAA approved! FREE info kit: 1-844-322-9935.

INSURANCE ATTENTION MEDICARE Recipients! Open enrollment is upon us! We want to save you money on your Medicare supplement plan. Free quotes from top providers. Excellent coverage. Call for a no obligation quote to see

ALABAMA DEPT OF CORRECTIONS CLEAR AND SECURE CAREER PATH

COMPETITIVE BENEFITS PACKAGE

PROVIDING TODAY. PROTECTING TOMORROW.

JOBS AVAILABLE NOW. OPPORTUNITY TO EARN UP TO

$7,500 IN BONUSES!

APPLY TODAY, TALK TO A RECRUITER WITHIN 2 BUSINESS DAYS

how much you can save!

1-877-326-0344.

VISIT ADOCJOBS.US

SAVE BIG on home insurance! Compare 20 A-rated insurance companies. Let us do the shopping & save you time and money. Get a quote within minutes.

Average savings of $444/ year! Call 1-877-9200763.

(M-F 8am-8pm Central).

COMPUTER & IT Training Program! Train online to get the skills to become a Computer & Help Desk Professional now! Now offering a $10,000 Scholarship for qualified applicants. Call CTI for details!

1-844-218-4255 (M-F 7am-5pm).

SAVE MONEY on your health insurance! Affordable rate on Health Insurance. Let us show you what you can save. Call now! 1-833-592-0964.

FINANCIAL SERVICES

INSTRUCTION

DRIVE OUT Breast Cancer: Donate a car or boat today! Receive maximum value of write off for your taxes. Running or not! All conditions accepted. Free pickup. Call for details.

1-855-428-9330.

REAL ESTATE pre-license course delivered via virtual classroom—attend from anywhere.

60-hr course approved by Alabama Real Estate Commission. $425 includes books. Begins January 11 for 9 weeks. Classes meet Monday & Thursday, 5:308:00 plus 3 Saturday classes, 8:00am -1:00pm. Best Choice School of Real Estate based in Montgomery.

(334)235-9937 or email Melanie@BestChoiceSchool.com.

FOR SALE BATHROOM RENOVATIONS. Easy, One Day updates! We specialize in safe bathing. Grab bars, no slip flooring & seated showers. Call for free inhome consultation: 1-877590-1575.

NEED NEW Flooring?

Call Empire Today to schedule a Free in-home estimate on Carpeting and Flooring. Call Today!

1-888-381-0916.

Light up the sky 2020 is over!!!

Com shop e firew our orks Indoo r Clim ! a te Con

trolled

’S J M

DISCOUNT WAREHOUSE 7 0 5 4 H i g h w a y 11 Tr u s s v i l l e • 2 0 5 - 5 0 8 - 5 2 6 1

The Trussville Tribune

Page 8

O b i t u a ry

Virginia Black

1, 1928 ~ december 29, 2020 (age 92) june

Virginia Langston Black passed away on December 29, 2020 surrounded by her daughters and grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband of 55 years, Robert Black. She is survived by her daughters, Ginger Cowley (Steve) and Robbie Roberts (Ronny), 8 grandchildren: Ryan Cowley Knight (Matt), Meg Lilly (Paul), Kathleen Cowley, Casey Cowley, Molly Elliott (Chad), Brooke Roberts (Heather), Brent Roberts (Andrea) and Leslie Batts (John Christopher), 14 great grandchildren (with #15 due in April), her sister, Nelda Thompson, brother-in-law, Odis Ousley and very special nieces and nephews. Virginia was born June 1, 1928 in Petersburg, Virginia to Allie Thomas Langston and SylVanius Langston. She was the oldest of 4 daughters. She lived in Selma, Alabama until she was 10 and then moved to Birmingham, Alabama where she resided for the remainder of her life. She attended Woodlawn High School and was a member of West Woodlawn Baptist Church until its closure. She and her husband were very active in every aspect of the church, but her true love was working in the Children’s Ministry. She was most recently a member of NorthPark Baptist Church. She was a true servant of the Lord with a tremendous heart and led those around her through daily examples of grace and kindness. She was blessed to be full time mother to her two daughters and later worked for South Central Bell, now AT&T, for 25 years as an executive secretary in the Benefit Department. She loved her time there and treasured her work friends. Virginia’s greatest joy was spending time with her daughters and spouses, grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was happiest when she was sitting off to the side of a room watching the love and chaos that only 8 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren could provide. She has left a void in all our lives that can never be filled. She will be missed, but her loyalty, love and kindness will never be forgotten. In lieu of flowers, gifts may be made to the American Caner Society or your favorite charity.

Melanie Fox

14, 1940 ~ december 29, 2020 (age 80) june

Melanie “Granmama” Fox, age 80 of Birmingham, passed away on December 29, 2020. She was born and raised in Fairfax, AL. and attended The University of Alabama. Granmama was devoted to her family and she opened her home and heart to many children throughout the years. She was the true definition of a true Christian, loving Granmama. Blood didn’t make you her family, her love for you did. She will forever be remembered as Granmama to her neighbors and the community that loved her. She was preceded in death by her parents, Doug and Irene Meadows. She is survived by her loving husband of nearly 60 years, Tom; her four daughters, Clair (David), Betsy (Brad), Deede (Jeff) and Leigh (Jamie); seven grandchildren, Ben (Jana), Laura (Brad), Emily (Chris), Todd (Katie), Brett (Ashley), Lauren and Brady; nine great grandchildren, Nolan, Wells, John Fox, Allie Kate, Saylor, Boyd, Cooper, Draper and Hopper. She also leaves behind countless others she considered her own.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers please send donations to TEAM (Trussville Ecumenical Assistance Ministry) P.O. Box 632 Trussville, AL 35173.

Jason Miller june

January 6 - 12, 2021

21, 1973 ~ december 28, 2020 (age 47) The family of Jason Keith Miller, age 47, was greatly saddened by his passing on December 28,2020. He grew up in the Pinson/Clay area and attended Trussville High School. Jason never married but relished his role as “Uncle Jason.” He lived with his parents and quickly became their personal Geek Squad and chauffeur. He enjoyed driving them around to do errands and going on trips to Gulf Shores. The love of driving led him to the iracing community, where he made friends all over the world. Jason also enjoyed fishing, music and was a loyal Auburn fan, He was funny, kind, always ready to help and a man of faith. Jason is survived by his parents, Bill and Glenda Miller; his brother and sister-in-law, Neil and Christy Miller; nephew, Clay Miller and his grandmother, Lexie Miller. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, William H. Miller; Jimmy and Nancy Blackmon. Jason also has aunts, uncles and cousins that will miss him. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation to Christ Health Center or charity of your choice.

Doris Cecelia Richardson Bullen october

31, 1943 ~ december 28, 2020 (age 77)

The family of Doris Cecelia Richardson Bullen, 77 years old of Birmingham, Alabama, is deeply saddened by her sudden passing on Monday, December 28 at the UAB Women and Infants Center. Mrs. Richardson was born on October 31, 1943, to the late Woodrow and Charlene Richardson. After attending New Albany High School in New Albany, Mississippi, Cecelia went on to graduate from the University of Mississippi in 1965, with a major in nutrition and minors in chemistry and biology. Cecelia grew up with a love of dance and music which became her talent in pageantry. Her most notable achievements in pageantry were when she was chosen as the third runner up of the Miss Louisiana pageant in 1963. Also, she was chosen as the University of Mississippi’s “Rebelee Queen” in 1965. She married Glenn Walton Bullen on July 2, 1966.

They had 2 children and were married for 54 years. They attended McElwain Baptist Church. Cecelia worked as a dietician for a decade and then became predominantly a homemaker. She was known and appreciated for her love of cooking and delicious meals. She was extraordinarily creative and artistic, giving her the ability to accomplish anything she set her mind to, including painting, decorating, sewing, and so much more. She loved reading The Bible, gardening, and bird watching and also had a tremendous appreciation for antique furniture and pottery and had acquired quite a collection. She was a strong woman of faith and helping others brought her great joy. Cecelia had a caring and compassionate spirit with a grave concern for those less fortunate, leading her to be very generous. She was witty, kind, and loved people, especially her family. She was a nurturing wife, mother, grandmother, neighbor, and friend. Additionally, she was active in the Women’s Republicans of America for many years. The family is so very grateful for those who have given love and support with this recent news. In addition to her parents, Cecelia was preceded in death by one brother; James Richardson. Mrs. Richardson is survived by her husband, Glenn Bullen, her son, Allan Bullen and daughter-in-law, DeAnna Bullen, her daughter, Heather Bullen Creel, and her grandchildren, Lily Creel, Colby Creel, Emily Timmons, and Jake Mohr. She is also survived by her brother, Mike Richardson, sisterin-law Deborah Richardson, sister DeLaine Bailey and brother-in-law Gary Bailey, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Alma E. (Babbitt) Reid december

29, 2020

The family of Alma E. Babbitt Reid, 89 years old of Birmingham, AL, is deeply saddened by her sudden passing on Thursday, December24, 2020 at Springhill Medical Center at Mobile, Al. Alma is preceded in death by parents Robert E. Babbitt, Pauline Branch Babbitt Posey, step-father Walter Posey, her sister, Mary K. McGill, and her son, Charles Dana Reid. Alma was born, September 4, 1931 in Birmingham, AL. She attended Avondale Elementary School and Woodlawn High School. She married Cecil S. Reid July 19, 1948 after his return from the Korean Conflict. They had four children and were married 62 years before Cecil’s death, October 2010. They attended Brookview Church.

Alma worked for many years in the restaurant field where she learned the art of cooking and entertaining. She was known and appreciated for her delicious meals and an open-door policy at her home especially on holidays and Sunday dinners. In 1964 she went to work for Alabama Power Company, serving 30 years and 4 months, as a switchboard operator before retiring. She was very talented, artistic and creative.

She moved to Pine Mountain in Remlap, AL where she planted flowers and created beautiful flower arrangements.

She loved writing poetry which she began at an early age. Alma was an avid country music fan and loved to dance.

Her favorite vacation was a trip to the beach or the mountains which she often visited with family and friends. Alma had a caring spirit. She was generous, kind, witty, and loved people, especially her family. She was a caring wife, mother, grandmother, neighbor, and friend. Helping others brought her much joy. Alma was active in the Al-Anon Program for many years, reaching out and making a difference in the lives of those she sponsored.

Alma relocated to DeRidder, LA in 2014 after a decline in her health status. She lived with her daughter and son in law. In July 2020, she moved to Mobile, AL to be closer to her family members. In September 2020, Alma celebrated her 89th birthday with many of her family members. The family will forever be grateful for those who assisted with her care the last 6 years. A special thank you to Rebecca Phillips from Leesville, LA who travelled to assist with Alma’s full time care Monday – Thursday. Rebecca referred to Alma as “her angel baby”.

Alma is survived by her sister Judy Carol Ferguson (DD) of South Carolina, her two daughters Dianne Reid Roddam (Charles), Cynthia Reid Sitz (Ray), one son Cecil Alan Reid (Brenda), daughter in law Rebecca Reid, eight grandchildren Shea Roddam Jennings (William), Stephen Roddam (Amanda), Brooke Reid (Michael), James M. Sitz (Catherine), Brandon Reid (Tyler), Alana Reid Henderson (Michael), Haley Reid Glassner (Kyle), Charles (Chas) Dana Reid, thirteen great grandchildren, and four great-great grandchildren whom all referred to her as “Ninni”. The last six years of her life she acquired the title of “the Queen”. She was loved deeply and will be greatly missed. She is now in the loving arms of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Brookview Church 3699 Belmont Road, Birmingham, AL 35210 or to your favorite charity.

183 MAIN STREET // SUITE D TRUSSVILLE AL 35173

205.655.1009

OUR GUARANTEE:

MOVE BETTER // FEEL BETTER // LIVE BETTER

e w m o t i o n t h e r a p y. c o m PHYSICAL

THERAPY

//

YOGA

//

TRAINING

//

ZUMBA

//

PILATES

Page 9

655-2095

sports

Keeping Co Community 1st Always

Local pair named ASWA Back of the Year finalists

By Erik Harris, sports editor

Two Tribune-area seniors are among the finalists to be named Back or Lineman of the Year in their respective classifications.

The Alabama Sports Writers Association revealed the list of finalists last Tuesday night. The winners will be announced in January followed

by Mr. Football.

See BACK OF THE YEAR , Page 10

No. 1 Alabama beats Notre Dame 31-14 in Rose Bowl

By The Associated Press

ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Alabama rolled into another College Football Playoff championship game.

DeVonta Smith caught three of fellow Heisman Trophy finalist Mac Jones’ four touchdown passes, Najee Harris ran for 125 yards with a high-hurdling highlight and top-ranked Alabama beat No. 4 Notre Dame 31-14 in the relocated Rose Bowl on Friday to reach its fifth CFP title game.

See CFP SEMIFINAL, Page 10

Leeds vs. Parker High School at Leeds Thursday, Jan. 7

Hewitt-Trussville vs. Vestavia Hills High School at Hewitt-Trussville Friday, Jan. 8

The Trussville Tribune January 6 - 12, 2021

Center Point vs. Corner High School at Center Point Tuesday, Jan. 12

BEST ON BEST Hewitt meets Hoover in battle of unbeatens

By Erik Harris, sports editor

TRUSSVILLE — No. 1 and No. 2 squared off last Saturday afternoon in Bryant Bank Arena at Hewitt-Trussville High School, and the battle of unbeatens did not disappoint.

The back-and-forth affair came down to the final second, as Hoover forward Aniya Hubbard tipped in a 3-point miss at the horn to lift her Bucs past the Hewitt-Trussville girls basketball team, 60-58.

Even at 58-all, Hoover guard Reniya Kelly fired a contested 3-pointer that clanked off the rim and fell into the outstretched hands of Hubbard, who split two Husky defenders and rattle home the game-winner in Trussville. Her teammates swarmed in celebration, as Hoover extended its undefeated start and likely tightened its grip on the No. 1 ranking in Class 7A. For second-ranked Hewitt-Trussville, the loss represents its first of the season and snaps a 17-game winning streak.

The Huskies led for much

Hoover guard Jada Knight steps out to defend Hewitt-Trussville’s Amiya Payne last Saturday in Trussville. Photo by Erik Harris

of the second half, claiming their biggest advantage at 38-29 midway through the third period thanks to a 12-5 run coming out of the break.

Hewitt opened the half with some inside work from Amir Brown and Dyona Jones before sophomore guard April Hooks got out in transition for a runner in the lane that stretched the lead to 32-24.

Hooks later popped a trey

from the top of the key followed by another triple from sophomore Audreonia Benson as the home team built a 38-29 cushion.

Hoover would rally and eventually worked the deficit down to 41-38 going into the fourth. The Bucs leaned on Hubbard down the stretch and she answered with four buckets and a pair from the charity stripe to go home with

a game-high 21 points. Kelly provided 16 points of her own and Jada Knight chipped in with eight.

Payne was big for the home team, working inside for 17 points on Saturday.

She scored her final points from the free-throw line, going 2-for-2 to even things up at 58-58 with 28 seconds remaining.

Hoover held for the final

shot and Hubbard made it count.

Benson provided a spark coming off the Huskies’ bench, as she knocked down four 3-pointers and finished with 14 points. Hooks connected on two 3-pointers and went home with 11 points for Hewitt.

The Class 7A battle remained tight throughout.

Hoover held a 15-14 lead after the opening frame, the Huskies went to the half leading 26-24 and later enter the fourth on top 41-38.

Another round of HewittHoover would be one to watch this postseason.

The Huskies also notched two tournament wins in Guntersvill last week, handing Susan Moore a 65-42 loss on Monday and following with a 61-44 victory over Albertville on Tuesday.

Payne and Hooks led Hewitt-Trussville with 23 and 16 points respectively Tuesday. Jordan Hunter led all scorers with 19 points against Susan Moore on Monday and followed with an 11-point outing on Tuesday.

The Huskies welcome in area foe Vestavia Hills this Friday night.

High Quality Digital Printing Promotional Items Letterhead, Envelopes, Invoices

205-602-3463 205-419-5082

sales@weldonprinting.com

3644 Vann Road • Suite 116

Forget to Pick Up The Dry Cleaning?

Now Offering FREE Pick-Up and Delivery!

Central Alabama’s Only Licensed GreenEarth Cleaner Two Convenient Locations!

Hwy 11 at Tutwiler Hwy 11 at Carrington 655-1516 661-1617

The Trussville Tribune

Page 10

January 6 - 12, 2021

Back Of The Year

Year accolades alongside Lee-Montgomery running back Reginald Davis and Oxford quarterback Trey Higgins. McKinstry stood out on

both sides of the ball for the 6A state champions, returning two interceptions for touchdowns and adding 40 receptions for 616 yards and 10

scores on offense.

The Alabama signee was recently named a first-teamer on the Sports Illustrated All-American Team.

See each of this year’s finalists below.

7A BACKS • Armoni Goodwin, Hewitt-Trussville

• Conner Harrell, Thompson • Joseph McKay, Central-Phenix City 7A LINEMEN • Jeremiah Alexander, Thompson • Terry Kirksey, Baker • Ian Jackson, Prattville 6A BACKS • Reginald Davis, LeeMontgomery • Trey Higgins, Oxford • Ga’Quincy McKinstry, Pinson Valley 6A LINEMEN • Anquin Barnes, LeeMontgomery • Lee Hunter, Blount • JonDarius Morgan, Huffman 5A BACKS • Javonte Graves-Billips, St. Paul’s • Chris Lewis, Pleasant Grove • Zyquez Perryman, Pleasant Grove 5A LINEMEN • Jay Ford, Central-Clay County • Lucas Taylor, St. Paul’s • Jeremiah Williams, Ramsay

for only the second time, has lost seven consecutive New Year’s Six games since 2000.

Alabama led 14-0 after scoring the first two times it had the ball, including an 97yard drive on which Harris leaped over 6-foot cornerback Nick McCloud just after crossing the line of scrimmage, landed on both feet and then sprinted for a 53-yard gain before getting run out of bounds.

“I actually try to teach him not to do it, and it didn’t work,” Saban said, laughing.

“Anyway, for a big guy, it’s pretty amazing that he can do that.”

Jones, who completed 25 of 30 passes for 297 yards, threw a 12-yard TD pass to tight end Jahleel Billingsley on the next play.

That touchdown came between drives when Smith,

who has 16 touchdown catches in his last seven games, turned short passes into scores of 26 and 34 yards.

Smith finished with seven catches for 130 yards, added a nifty toe-tapping 7-yarder in the front corner of the end zone right on the pylon in the middle of the third quarter.

The Crimson Tide earned a spot in the Jan. 11 championship game in Miami, against No. 2 Clemson again or No. 3 Ohio State — the Tigers and Buckeyes played in the other CFP semifinal at the Sugar Bowl on Friday night.

Alabama missed the CFP last year for the only time since the four-time playoff debuted at the end of the 2014 season.

CFP officials moved the Rose Bowl about 1,400 miles because of COVID-19 restrictions in California that would have kept family — or

any fans — from attending the game at its normal home in Pasadena. There was a limited capacity crowd of 18,373 at AT&T Stadium, the home of the Dallas Cowboys, just a bit higher than attendance for the Cotton Bowl game played there two days earlier when Oklahoma beat Florida 55-20.

It was another thud of a finish for the Fighting Irish winning all 10 regular-season games, including a home victory over Clemson. But Notre Dame then lost 34-10 in the ACC title game to the Tigers.

“Today was about making the plays. They made them on the perimeter. Their skill players showed up today as they have all year,” Irish coach Brian Kelly said. “We battled. I thought we did some of the things that we wanted to today but we simply didn’t make enough plays.”

Notre Dame lost 30-3 to Clemson in the CFP semifinal Cotton Bowl two years ago, that was also played at the home of the NFL’s Dallas Cowboys. It was the first time the Irish had played Alabama since the Tide beat them 4214 in the BCS national championship game eight seasons ago.

While the Alabama defense kept quarterback Ian Book scrambling, the Tide offense was rolling from the outset. Book, the winningest starting QB ever for the Irish at 30-5, completed 27 of 39 passes for 229 yards and only his third interception this season.

Alabama’s opening seven-play, 79-yard drive ended with Smith making his first catch in the left flat, then sprinting past and through defenders along the sideline

for a 26-yard score. After the second-longest scoring drive in Rose Bowl history when Billingsley scored, Alabama drove 84 yards with Smith making a catch on a crossing route for the 34-yard score.

The closest Notre Dame got was 14-7 when Kyren Williams plunged in from a yard out on a fourth-down play early in the second quarter to cap a 15-play, 75-yard drive that took just over eight minutes.

UP NEXT Notre Dame goes into another offseason still trying to figure out how to close the gap. The Irish play their 2021 season opener Sept. 5 at Florida State.

Alabama gets a chance to win its sixth national title in coach Nick Saban’s 14 seasons in the CFP national championship game.

From page 9

Which annually goes to the most outstanding player in the state, regardless of classification.

A pair of locals remain in the running.

In Class 7A, Hewitt-Trussville running back Armoni Goodwin is one of three finalist for Back of the Year, joining Thompson quarterback Conner Harrell and Central-Phenix City running back Joseph McKay. A recent LSU signee, Goodwin exits Trussville as the school’s all-time leading rusher with 3,367 yards and 43 touchdowns in 26 games played.

Goodwin recently landed second-team honors on the Sports Illustrated 2020 All-American Team after rushing for 1,424 yards and 18 scores for the Huskies this season.

In Class 6A, Pinson Valley senior Ga’Quincy McKinstry is up for Back of the

CFP Semifinal From page 9

While the location for this Rose Bowl was truly untraditional, the Crimson Tide (120, No. 1 CFP) playing for the national title is a common occurrence in seven seasons of the CFP. “I don’t think there’s anything quite like the Rose Bowl, the tradition, the setting, the mountains. It’s just a phenomenal experience ... wish our players had gotten that opportunity,” coach Nick Saban said.

But Saban and the Tide will take yet another win in the home of the NFL’s Dallas Cowboys, which the coach called one of college football’s finest venues, and moving on in the playoff.

Notre Dame (10-2, No. 4 CFP), in football’s final four

Pinson Valley senior Ga’Quincy McKinstry (1) runs in one of his four touchdowns against Arab on Nov. 6, 2020. Photo by Vickie Unlap

The Trussville Tribune

January 6 - 12, 2021

Page 11

County renames coach of the year award after Hueytown’s Patterson

By Erik Harris, sports editor

HUEYTOWN — Former Hueytown baseball coach Rick Patterson will long be remembered on the Alabama high school baseball scene.

According to an announcement from the school’s Twitter account, the Gophers’ longtime skipper, who passed away on Sept. 29, 2020 at the age of 62, has been honored by the Jefferson County Schools Baseball Coaches Association. The Monday post says the group voted

Former Hueytown head baseball coach Rick Patterson looks on from the dugout. Photo by Danny Joiner

unanimously to rename its coach of the year award after Patterson.

The annual honor will now be known as the Rick Patterson Coach of the Year Award.

Patterson was voted Jefferson County Coach of the Year following the 2019 season, which ended in the Class 6A state semifinal round — his sixth semifinal push in 28 years at Hueytown.

In 41 years down the third-base line, Patterson won 893 games on his way to numerous area championships.

FOOD SAFETY: Latest Jefferson County restaurant scores From The Tribune staff reports

The Jefferson County Department of Health regularly inspects establishments in Jefferson County where food is prepared or sold for human consumption. Two types of inspections, scored and alternative (non-scored), are performed throughout the year.

The following is a list of the most recent scored inspections: Permit

16664 26614 25149

21509

21508 25294 22392

Score

Name

SOUTHEAST MEAT & VEGETABLE 1751 99 PINSON VALLEY PKWY TARRANT 35217 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/30/20 NAUGHTY BUT NICE KETTLE CORN 99 COMPANY 5831 1ST AVE N BIRMINGHAM 35212 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/30/20 MINGS GARDEN 1046 MAIN 91 ST GARDENDALE 35071 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/29/20 SPROUTS FARMERS MARKET – MEAT AND SEAFOOD5250 MED99 FORD DR HOOVER 35244Smoke Free: YDate: 12/29/20 SPROUTS FARMERS MARKET – BAKERY 100 AND DELI 5250 MEDFORD DR HOOVER 35244 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/29/20 MCDONALDS #12617734 GRANTS 92 MILL RD IRONDALE 35210 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/29/20 PILOT TRAVEL CENTER #602224 89 DANIEL PAYNE DR BIRMINGHAM 35207 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/29/20

23203

93

13365

98

21522

97

9840

99

20559

98

7886

97

21875

89

22394

99

16477

98

14858

96

14811

94

SALTGRASS STEAK HOUSE 2943 JOHN HAWKINS PKWY HOOVER 35244 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/28/20 FUNTIME SKATE CENTER 3508 DECATUR HWY FULTONDALE 35068 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/28/20 PAPA MURPHYS TAKE N BAKE PIZZA 5250 MEDFORD DR HOOVER 35244 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/28/20 WAYNES PACKAGE STORE 405 WARRIOR JASPER RD WARRIOR 35180 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/28/20 BOJANGLES #9221600 MORRIS AVE FULTONDALE 35068 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/28/20 PIGGLY WIGGLY PRODUCE 415 CALDWELL DR WARRIOR 35180 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/28/20 OUTBACK STEAKHOUSE RESTAURANT 3440 GALLERIA CIR HOOVER 35244 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/28/20 SUBWAY 841 ODUM RD GARDENDALE 35071 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/28/20 PUBLIX #1059 BAKERY 1325 MONTCLAIR RD BIRMINGHAM 35210 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/28/20 FOODLAND #446 MEAT MARKET 2710 19TH ST N HUEYTOWN 35023 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/23/20 DOLLAR GENERAL #82521345 HUEYTOWN RD HUEYTOWN 35023 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/23/20

21246

98

25301

98

25054

90

23218

99

22635

98

23316

98

10314

95

21510

90

22422

96

26559

97

WHATABURGER 5931 TRUSSVILLE CROSSING PKWY TRUSSVILLE 35173 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/23/20 LITTLE HOUSE FOR LITTLE PEOPLE EARLY LEARNING CEN. 813 8TH ST N BESSEMER 35020 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/23/20 MCDONALDS # 17561569 MONTCLAIR RD BIRMINGHAM 35210 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/23/20 HOME 2 SUITES BY HILTON 3289 LOWERY PKWY FULTONDALE 35068 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/23/20 COMFORT INN 1733 FULTON RD FULTONDALE 35068 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/23/20 HAMPTON INN 1716 FULTON RD FULTONDALE 35068 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/23/20 VINESVILLE CONVENIENCE STORE 1001 VINESVILLE RD BIRMINGHAM 35208 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/22/20 MCCALLA TEXACO 5528 EASTERN VALLEY RD MCCALLA 35111 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/22/20 PIZZA HUT #1758 1110 CHALKVILLE RD N TRUSSVILLE 35173 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/22/20 ONE TASTE 833 PARK RD PLEASANT GROVE 35127 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/22/20

The Trussville Tribune

Page 12

January 6 - 12, 2021

Ramsey leads No. 14 Northwestern past Auburn in Citrus Bowl

By The Associated Press

ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — Peyton Ramsey threw three touchdown passes and ran for a score, and No. 14 Northwestern’s defense made it stand up in a 35-19 victory over Auburn in the Citrus Bowl on Friday.

Ramsey, a graduate transfer, totaled 291 yards passing and 50 yards rushing for Northwestern (7-2), which won its fourth straight bowl game. Ramaud Chiaokhiao-Brown, John Raine and Riley Lees had touchdown catches for the Wildcats, who bounced back from an ugly loss to Ohio State on Dec. 19

in the Big Ten championship game.

Bo Nix threw for 292 yards for Auburn (6-5) but was often frustrated by Northwestern's defense, which came in allowing 15.5 points per game, ranked fifth in the nation. Auburn was led by interim coach Kevin Steele following the Dec. 13 firing of Gus Malzahn and was missing several key players.

The Tigers got within 1413 when Nix hit Elijah Canion for a 57-yard touchdown midway through the third quarter. But Ramsey responded with a 30-yard touchdown run late in the third quarter.

Linebacker Paddy Fish-

er, the nation’s active leader in tackles coming into the game, drilled Nix for no gain on fourth-and-1 on the second play of the fourth quarter.

Cam Porter had seven carries on the ensuing drive, including a 1-yard plunge into the end zone that put Northwestern comfortably ahead 28-13.

Porter rushed for 98 yards on 33 carries, and the Wildcats offense finished with 457 yards and 25 first downs.

The Tigers failed to convert 10 of their first 11 third downs, were unsuccessful on their first two fourth-down tries and mustered 361 yards and 18 first downs. For the game, the Tigers were 2 of 13

on third downs.

Ramsey put Northwestern ahead 14-0 on first-quarter TD passes of 35 yards to Chiaokhiao-Brown and 6 yards to Raine. His final touchdown pass, to Lees, put the Wildcats ahead 35-13 midway through the fourth quarter.

Both teams were without major contributors because of COVID-19 protocols, injuries and opt-outs. Auburn running back Tank Bigsby didn't make the trip for medical reasons, and top wideout Anthony Schwartz and defensive back Roger McCreary opted out to prepare for the NFL draft.

COACHES OLD AND NEW

The game was the final one in the 51-year coaching career of 73-year-old defensive coordinator Mike Hankwitz, who spent the past 13 seasons at Northwestern.

Hankwitz was a part of 400 victories throughout his career at nine schools and was the defensive coordinator for Colorado's 1990 national championship team.

Bryan Harsin, hired out of Boise State to replace Malzahn, was on the field before kickoff and watched the game from a suite.

THE TAKEAWAY Auburn: Harsin will have plenty of talent to build his offense around with Nix and

Bisby expected back next season.

Northwestern: Coach Pat Fitzgerald has established the Wildcats as a consistent contender in the Big Ten and the future should be bright despite losing Hankwitz and several key players. The first priority for Fitzgerald: Finding a replacement for Ramsey, who had a solid season after transferring from Indiana.

UP NEXT Auburn: Opens its season at home against Akron on Sept. 4.

Northwestern: Hosts Big Ten rival Michigan State on Sept. 4.

Entire NCAA men’s Former Hewitt star basketball tournament go considered ‘day-to-day’ be played in Indiana after missing CFP semifinal From The Tribune staff reports

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. — The NCAA announced Monday its entire 2021 men’s basketball tournament will be held in Indiana, with the majority of the competition taking place in Indianapolis.

Selection Sunday is scheduled for March 14 followed by the Final Four on April 3 and 5. Exact preliminary-round dates are to be determined.

“This is a historic moment for NCAA members and the state of Indiana,” NCAA President Mark Emmert said.

“We have worked tirelessly to reimagine a tournament structure that maintains our unique championship opportunity for

college athletes. The reality of today’s announcement was possible thanks to the tremendous leadership of our membership, local authorities and staff.”

According to multiple reports, the tournament will be hosted by Ball State, Butler, the Horizon League, Indiana, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis and Purdue. Practices will be conducted at the Indiana Convention Center.

Games will be played (one at a time) on two separate courts at Lucas Oil Stadium.

Competition will also be held at Bankers Life Fieldhouse, Hinkle Fieldhouse, Indiana Farmers Coliseum, Mackey Arena in West Lafayette and Simon Skjodt Assembly Hill

in Bloomington.

“The 2021 version of March Madness will be one to remember, if for no other reason than the uniqueness of the event,” said NCAA Senior Vice President of Basketball Dan Gavitt. “With the direction of the Men’s Basketball Committee, we are making the most of the circumstances the global pandemic has presented. We’re fortunate to have neighbors and partners in Indianapolis and surrounding communities who not only love the game of basketball as much as anyone else in the country but have a storied history when it comes to staging major sporting events.”

Each of the tournament’s 67 games will air on TBS, CBS, TNT or truTV.

By Erik Harris, sports editor

ARLINGTON, TEXAS — It was a strong showing for the Alabama football team on Friday night, as the topranked Tide rolled by No. 4 Notre Dame 31-14 in the Rose Bowl, securing its spot in the College Football Playoff National Championship Game on Jan. 11, 2021.

However, a key player was missing from Nick Saban’s secondary throughout the contest. His starter at the Star position, Malachi Moore, never took the field in Arlington, Texas, although he was fully dressed out on the sidelines.

Saban briefly addressed Moore’s status following the game.

Alabama defensive back Malachi Moore celebrates during the 2020 Iron Bowl in Tuscaloosa. Photo from UA Athletics

“Malachi Moore is day-today,” said Saban. “He injured himself a little bit in the Florida game. He was able to practice on and off. It’s the type of injury that exercise aggravates it. He wasn’t able to go today.”

Starting in his place on Friday was fellow freshman Brian Branch, who finished with three tackles and a pass breakup.

Moore, in his first season out of Hewitt-Trussville, was selected to the SEC All-Freshman Team after recording three interceptions and 27 solo tackles in 11 games. He has provided big-play potential to the Alabama defense this season — a service he displayed on Oct. 24 when he forced a fumble and returned it 28 yards for a touchdown against Tennessee.

His status is not clear as the Crimson Tide prepares for No. 3 Ohio State in the CFP National Championship Game in Miami Gardens, Fla. On Jan. 11.

A gift & clothing boutique specializing in home decor, seasonal giving, and jewelry.

TYLER CANDLE CO.

2050 Gadsden Highway, Suite 116 Trussville, AL 35235, (205) 508-0682 wrapsodyonline.com @shopwrapsody We’re hiring! Submit your resume and apply online.

Owens Corning Blown-In Insulation creates maximum comfort & pays for itself quickly!

M3Performance and Physical Therapy

$300 off Full Roof Replacement

$150 off Blown-In Insulation

by Owens Corning

Kendell M. Jno-Finn PT, DPT, TPI-M2

M3Endeavors.com

Move Well • Live Well • Do Amazing Things

(205)508-3811 // 7040 Gadsden Hwy Suite 100 // Trussville, AL 35173