The Trussville Tribune – January 11 - 17, 2023

From The Tribune staff reports

TRUSSVILLE — Surveys and community meetings have been distributed for the Trussville City Schools (TCS) Superintendent search.

Pinson mayor, council call out Jefferson County Sheriff Pettway regarding electronic bingo facilities

By Crystal McGough Associate Editor

PINSON – The Pinson City Council, at its regular Thursday night meeting on Jan. 5, 2023, heard from Zoning Administrator Chris Sharit regarding citizens’ concerns and complaints over electronic bingo facilities in and around the city.

By Loyd McIntosh For The Tribune

“I just wanted to clarify a few things,” Sharit said. “We get several complaints and calls every day and every week to city hall and on social media about electronic bingo in the city of Pinson. The city does have an ordinance against electronic bingo. We do not have any electronic bingo facilities operating in the city limits, unless one opened today – and that’s possible because they pop up that quick. We have actually, physically, in the last few months shut down three. … In the city of Pinson, we do not have electronic bingo because it is illegal, and it is against our ordinanc-

Trussville Parks & Recreation launches esports League

From The Tribune staff reports

TRUSSVILLE — The City of Trussville Parks & Recreation department has partnered with Mission Control to launch the inaugural season of its new esports league.

This season features Mario Kart on Monday evenings, Rocket League on Thursdays,

By Crystal McGough Associate Editor

PINSON – As more and more complaints have been coming into City Hall regarding missed garbage and

es. We’ve shut them down and we will continue to shut them down.”

Sharit explained that there are a lot of bingo halls that appear to be in Pinson, but they are not legally within Pinson’s corporate limits and the municipality has no authority in unincorporated areas.

Mayor Cochran and some of the council members spe-

cifically called out Jefferson County Sheriff Mark Pettway for not making electronic bingo a priority, and appealed to him for help.

“The only person that can deal with these unincorporated areas outside of our city limit is the sheriff of Jefferson County, Mark Pettway,” Cochran said. “He was recently re-elected. I’ve read comments from Sher-

iff Pettway that said he’s not dealing with this; he’s gonna focus on violent crime. Well, I know of robberies that have happened at these places –armed robberies. I know of shootings that have occurred in these places, and if that’s not violent crime, please define it for me.

“I have talked to Sheriff Pettway, as have many city leaders around this county. I have talked to Steve Marshall, our attorney general. I can’t for the life of me understand why our sheriff will not enforce these rules and other sheriffs in other counties will. There’s a lot of rumors and innuendos out there, and I’m not getting into any of that, but at the end of the day, it’s a blight on our community.”

Cochran said that he would also like to call upon Alabama’s state legislators to change the classification of electronic bingo from a misdemeanor to a felony.

Multiple properties of the Trussville Entertainment District listed in potential federal indictment

By Erica Thomas, 1819 News, and Hannah Curran, Trussville Tribune

TRUSSVILLE — The investigation into a possible multi-million dollar illegal sports gambling conspiracy, tax evasion and money laundering scheme could lead to the seizure of 30 properties, many across Alabama, including several that make up the Trussville Entertainment District (TED).

The 114-count indictment reads like a Hollywood thriller and includes millions of dollars in dirty money switching hands in parking lots, restaurant bathrooms and high-end conferences where the alleged “boss” tells people how to stay clean in a high-stakes business.

According to the United States Department of Justice (USDOJ), 11 defendants, nearly half of them from Alabama, were indicted in connection to the management of the scheme. Of those 11 defendants, six of them are from

Argo Police Department awards ‘Officer of the Year’ at Argo Council meeting

By Crystal McGough Associate Editor

ARGO – A special award was given during the Argo City Council meeting Monday night, Jan. 9, 2023. Former Argo police chief Glenn Wells and current Chief Alan

for new Starbucks approved at Trussville Council, accepts applications for TCS BOE board member

TRUSSVILLE — During the regular meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 10, the Trussville

See TRUSSVILLE, Page 2

Ragland Police Department’s K9 Smoke received donation of body armor

From The Tribune staff reports

“Tim Pughsley, who is a defendant in this indictment, is a passive investor in the entity that owns some of these properties,” Smith explained. “By passive I mean, he doesn’t have any operating authority over them or anything like that. He’s just a passive investor.”

Smith said he and his client are monitoring the case but they are not concerned that it will impact operations at the TED.

RAGLAND — Ragland Police Department’s K9 Smoke has received a bullet and stab protective vest thanks to a charitable donation from the non-profit organization Vested Interest in

Alabama and they are the top four accused of managing the organization.

The scheme spanned over at least three years, although the exact date of when it started is unknown, prosecutors say. The head of the operation, according to the indictment is Timothy J. Pughsley, 51, of Birmingham. He started the bookmaking business at least 17 years ago but it eventually became known as “Red44” and more players have been added as “senior agents,” prosecutors say. He also invested in properties that are now on the seizure list.

Nine of the properties listed within the TED include the properties where Ferus Artisan Ales, Mexicali Blues, Mr. West’s Asian Kitchen and Pinchgut Pies are operated. Another property listed that is within the TED is a restaurant that is owned by a lessee of that property.

CENTER POINT, Page 5 See BINGO, Page 3 See INDICTMENT, Page 3

Those properties are owned by prominent businessman Coby Lake. Lake’s attorney, Jay Smith, said Timothy Pughsley has been a “passive investor” in some of Lake’s dealings. He believes that’s why Lake’s properties are listed in the indictment.

“I can understand why people on the outside would be concerned, but I don’t think there’s any reason to be,” said Smith. “At least not from the perspective of the real property owners, Coby, and the city of Trussville itself.”

Outdoor air monitors to be installed at Trussville City Schools

From The Tribune staff reports

CHETS MOVING SERVICE (205) 854-4336 Serving the community over 25 years! PVHS Guess steps down Page 10 Cahalan heads to Tuscaloosa Page 9 MARTY’S TRUSSVILLE • NOW OPEN • 66 60 24% 67 38 77% 44 29 6% 50 29 4% 58 41 5% 61 55 46% 68 55 45%

TRUSSVILLE — Trussville City Schools released a letter to parents and guardians that informed them of the installation of outdoor air monitors at four sites in the school system.

TCS Superintendent search underway, survey & community meetings announced

By Hannah Curran Editor

Center Point tackles several major issues in City Council meeting

Pinson City Council (Photo by Crystal McGough)

Trussville Entertainment District (Photo courtesy of Trussville Tribune)

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Scott Buttram, Publisher publisher@trussvilletribune.com

Hannah Curran, Editor news@trussvilletribune.com

Crystal McGough, Associate Editor news@trussvilletribune.com

Johnny

City Council approved incentives for the Starbucks located at 5990 Chalkville Mountain Road.

According to the resolution read during the meeting by Councilmember Alan Taylor, the project is estimated to produce taxable revenues in excess of $3,000,000 per year, sales tax revenues in excess of $120,000 per year, and will provide the opportunity for approximately 25 post-opening jobs at the project.

“They give us their projected revenues over a period of time,” Mayor Buddy Choat stated. “Three million dollars a year in revenue is generally where we start. They showed us a plan where they are going to exceed that over a 10-year period, so we structured the $600,000 abatement based on their numbers.”

Choat explained that they will get three cents for the

first five years, and then the City of Trussville will split it.

“The schools still get their one penny,” Choat said. “Just a typical agreement we’ve done with others this would just be extended 10 years, and the number was raised by $100,000 because the cost of building has gone up.”

During council reports, Councilmember Jaime Anderson explained that the Trussville Public Library has several events coming up, including an “Evening with Sean of the South.”

The beloved author Sean Dietrich will be at the Trussville Public Library on Thursday, Mar. 2, at 6:30 p.m. for a performance and to discuss his new book, You Are My Sunshine.

This will be a ticketed event. Ticket prices are $15 without a book and $35 with an autographed copy of his new book. Doors will open at 6 p.m.

Tickets may be transferred to another person by contact-

ing the library. Refunds will not be issued unless the event is canceled.

Also, Choat gave an update on the Moody Environmental Landfill fire.

“Today, the St. Clair County Commission met in Ashville, and obviously, they’ve received several different bids from companies around the country that have handled this kind of fire before,” Choat said. “My understanding is they’re going to make a decision on what they’re going to recommend to send to Montgomery. At that point, ADEM will take over if they accept this particular bid.”

Choat said that James Hill, the attorney for the commission, said that all the bids that were received estimated the whole process would take about 30 days to clean up the whole landfill.

“So that’s encouraging,” Choat said. “We’re trying to keep abreast with what’s going on; it’s been a long process since it started and ended up in

the Commission’s lap. They’ve gotten to a point now where they’ve accepted these RFPs, and are going to Montgomery with it by the end of the week, is what I understand.”

The city of Trussville is accepting applications for a new Trussville City Schools Board of Education board member.

“If you’re interested in serving any of our boards or committees that we’ve reported on tonight, go and apply,” Choat said. “In particular, our Board of Education will be going through a process of selecting a board member. Mark Sims, one of the board members, is not going to serve again. So we will have an open position there. We’ll be accepting applications for that as well as the other boards and committees in our city. I encourage you to encourage others who want to serve to get online on our website.”

The application can be found at www.trussville.org.

Indictment

“Obviously, the indictment didn’t have anything to do with Coby,” Smith added. “Except for the properties listed.”

Trussville Mayor Buddy Choat said the city is also monitoring the situation.

“I was made aware of the indictment over the weekend and I’m aware of the properties listed in the indictment,” Choat said.

The investigation centered around Red44, a website where betters could place their bets on sporting events. The website, according to the indictment, had an offshore server in Costa Rica. According to court documents, bettors generally placed bets on credit; no money was exchanged through the Red44 online platform.

“The Red44 Organization utilized bank accounts, PayPal, Venmo, CashApp, GooglePay, cash, and virtual currency to move gambling proceeds between bookmakers and bettors,” the indictment read.

The indictment states that investigators believe Pughsley was operating at the top of the organization and had others working as senior agents in Alabama, including Christopher Donaldson, Christopher Burdette and Nathanael Burdette. The senior agents had people under them, including Joshua Gentrup, of Georgia, who would recruit and report back. However, there was another set of agents who reported directly to Pughsley, according to the indictment. Among those were Jonathan Lind (bookmaker) and Thomas Zito (senior agent), also from Alabama. The others were Gary Rapp (senior agent), of Ten-

L oca L / R egion

nessee, Mark Giaouinto (senior agent), of Massachusetts, Matthew Voorhees (senior agent), of Colorado, David Richards (senior agent), of Las Vegas, Nevada.

The indictment stated that some of the defendants held conferences each year, usually in August, to talk shop. Those conferences were held in Costa Rica, New York, San Francisco, Chicago, Nashville, and Houston.

During the conferences, Pughsley reportedly gave updates on profit and the number of people betting with Red44. Because of information obtained by investigators, they believe that since at least January of 2018, the “defendants have received large amounts of proceeds from an illegal gambling business that was owned, operated, and managed in the Northern District of Alabama.”

During the 2021 conference in Houston, Gentrup is accused of saying the organization was “not in the business of breaking kneecaps” to collect, but that it used intimidation over the phone to ensure collection from bettors.

Specific events listed in the indictment include exchanges of cash. One of those exchanges happened in November of 2021 when prosecutors say Pughsley counted cash in Zito’s car in the parking lot of Saltgrass Restaurant on Highway 280. The other account happened on December 10, 2021, at a private party at Mexicalli Blues, in Trussville.

“Bookmakers in the Red44 Organization were invited to attend the party,” the indictment reads. “During the party, a bookmaker observed Defendant Rapp counting an approximately two-inch stack of $100 bills in the bathroom, and was later observed plac-

ing an envelope of cash into his girlfriend’s purse.”

The court documents state that in the event of a conviction of the offense charged in Count One of this Second Superseding Indictment, Defendants, Pughsley, Rapp, Giaquinto, Voorhees, Richards, Donaldson, Gentrup, C. Burdette, N. Burdette, Lind, and Zito, shall forfeit to the United States of America any property, real or personal, which constitutes or is derived from proceeds traceable to said violation. The list of properties includes handbags, a “Red44” necklace, other jewelry, vehicles, and 30 locations of real property, including homes, land and businesses.

Choat said he is trying to stay in communication with those involved in order to understand what the process is if the properties are forfeited. He said he is aware of just how serious the charges are.

Lake also owns the properties in Gulf Shores that is on the list. When asked if Lake was aware of the Red44 website, Smith said, “I have no clue. I doubt it.

“ … Whether or not Coby knew of a website, Red44, I have no clue. I didn’t know about it, but I have no idea, honestly. I don’t want to speak out of school here.”

Coby Lake is not listed in the indictment or in any of the detailed accusations that have been made public in the case.

The charges break down as follows:

• Timothy Pughsley is charged with 38 counts of tax evasion, one count of conspiring to operate an illegal sports-betting organization, one count of conspiring to commit money laundering, and four counts of money laundering.

• Christopher Burdette, 30, of Chelsea, Alabama, is charged with six counts of tax evasion, one count of conspiring to operate an illegal sports-betting organization, one count of conspiring to commit money laundering, and one count of money laundering.

• Nathanael Burdette, 36, of Birmingham, Alabama, is charged with six counts of tax evasion, one count of conspiring to operate an illegal sports-betting organization, one count of conspiring to commit money laundering, and two counts of money laundering.

• Jonathan Lind, 44, of Birmingham, Alabama, is charged with six counts of tax evasion, one count of conspiring to operate an illegal sports-betting organization, one count of conspiring to commit money laundering, and two counts of money laundering.

Thomas V. Zito, 57, of Vestavia, Alabama, is charged with six counts of tax evasion, one count of conspiring to operate an illegal sports-betting organization, one count of conspiring to commit money laundering, and one count of money laundering.

Christopher Donaldson, 46, of Trussville, Alabama, is charged with one count of conspiring to operate an illegal sport-betting organization and one count of conspiring to commit money laundering.

Gary L. Rapp, Jr., 44, of Lakeland, Tennessee, is charged with six counts of tax evasion, one count of conspiring to operate

an illegal sports-betting organization, one count of conspiring to commit money laundering, and two counts of money laundering.

Mark Giaquinto, 50, of Upton, Massachusetts, is charged with six counts of tax evasion, one count of conspiring to operate an illegal sports-betting organization, one count of conspiring to commit money laundering, and two counts of money laundering.

• Matthew D. Voorhees, 47, of Englewood, Colorado, is charged with six counts of tax evasion, one count of conspiring to operate an illegal sports-betting organization, one count of conspiring to commit money laundering, and two counts of money laundering.

• David Richards, 38, of Las Vegas, Nevada, is charged with six counts of tax evasion, one count of conspiring to operate an illegal sports-betting organization, one count of conspiring to commit money laundering, and two counts of money laundering.

• Joshua Gentrup, 36, of Athens, Georgia, is charged with six counts of tax evasion, one count of conspiring to operate an illegal sports-betting organization, one count of conspiring to commit money laundering, and two counts of money laundering.

An indictment contains only charges. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

To connect with the author of this story, or to comment, email erica.thomas@1819news.com.

Bingo

From front page

“(They) can make a law … that will not allow our municipality to change the name of a building, which is stupid; but we can’t deal with this,” he said. “Get your priorities right, deal with the problems in the state of Alabama. It goes all the way from the legislature to the attorney general to the sheriff’s department. Those are the responsible people. We can’t make them do their job, but the citizens can; you can demand they do their job.”

Councilor Glenda Kirkland stated that she wouldn’t mind stepping on some toes to get some answers and action.

“I would love to ask the sheriff if he’s receiving any monies from these bingo parlors, or any of his officers or his brothers or family members,” Kirkland said. “Because you follow the money and you going to find out the problem, where it’s at. And I think it’s time that we follow the money and that we demand to know who’s getting the money on this.”

Councilor John Churchwell said he wholeheartedly agreed with the mayor, adding that “it’s ridiculous to have a situation like that (and) we cannot get any help or not really any attention from the sheriff.”

Councilors Robbie Roberts and Brad Walker both stated that, regardless of anyone’s personal opinions about gambling, they felt these venues appear “tacky” and negatively impact the community as a whole.

“It’s a lot of blight,” Mayor Cochran said. “It’s not a ‘Welcome to Pinson’ when you come down (Highway) 79 and see all these bingo halls.”

the public, and you can share what you would like to see in the next superintendent.

As the Alabama Association of School Boards (AASB) assists the TCS Board of Education in the search for a new superintendent, they need your input about the skills and experiences the new leader will need. Choose the meeting that best matches your role, and come and share your ideas.

The meetings will take place in the TCS BOE meeting room on Thursday, Jan. 12:

• 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. – Parents and Community

• 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. – Principal and System Administrators

2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. –Public Officials 4:15 p.m. to 5:15 p.m. –System Employees

• 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. –Parents, Employees, and Community

The link to the survey is https://www.surveymonkey. com/r/TCSSearch22. All surveys are anonymous.

The survey and the meetings will both ask participants:

• What skills and experience should the next su-

perintendent have?

Should the board look for an experienced superintendent?

• Should the superintendent be hired from within?

• What are the challenges facing the system?

The school system is sharing this information on its website and Facebook page. It also is emailing it to employees and will share it with the PTA leadership.

But AASB and the Trussville Board of Education hope to get a broad cross-section of the community to participate as well.

School board members will be asked not to attend the input meetings. AASB has found that when board members attend this type of meeting, attendees want to talk about current issues rather than the search. Instead, AASB will present the results of the survey and meetings at a public meeting or work session of the board in March.

The Trussville Board of

Education is seeking an experienced, successful leader to serve as its next superintendent. The ideal candidate should:

• Be able to maintain and grow student achievement;

• Have strong interpersonal skills; Have exceptional communication skills and be adept at public speaking, listening, and communicating with the board and stakeholders;

• Have experience with long-range planning; and

• Have strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Alabama law requires the superintendent be chosen for general fitness and character and that he/she be knowledgeable in school administration. The successful applicant also must have or be eligible for the appropriate certification to serve as a superintendent in Alabama and must hold at least a master’s degree from a recognized four-year college or university.

This position will pay at least $175,000 and is negotiable based on experience, a successful track record, and degree held.

Application Deadline: Jan. 30, 2023;

• Interviews: Feb. 20-28, 2023; and

• Superintendent Begins: Apr. 10, 2023.

Busler presented K-9 Officer Cason Davis with the police department’s “Officer of the Year” award.

“This is the second annual ‘Officer of the Year’ award,” Wells said. “It’s for K-9 Officer Michael Cason Davis. Cason has done a wonderful job this past year, not only with the K-9, but he took over a lot of responsibilities with the evidence room – something that I did but thank God I no longer do – but it’s a big job and he came up with a lot better system than I had in place. He also came up with a new evidence room, designed more for storing evidence properly and keeping good track of it. He does excellent arrests, excellent reports, always looks sharp, comes to work with a good attitude, and (he’s) dependable. Cason, congratulations. It’s my privilege and honor to give you that.”

At the council’s Aug. 23, 2021, meeting, Davis informed the mayor and council that iK9, a training facility in Anniston, would be donating a K-9 Unit to the department. The dog they would be receiving was coincidentally already named Argo. Davis asked the city to fund his K-9 handler training, which the council voted in favor of, in the amount of $1,000.

Throughout the last year, Argo and Officer Davis have

proven themselves to be a successful team and an asset to the Argo Police Department. Sgt. Jack Como, who won last year’s “Officer of the Year” award, said that there were a lot of votes to give the award to K-9 Argo. Wells added that Argo came in second place after Davis.

In other business, the council passed a motion to approve a bond paving agreement for the new Grant

Crossing subdivision development.

Mayor Betty Bradley announced that City Hall will be closed Monday, January 16, in recognition of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

The next regular meeting of the Argo City Council will be Monday, Jan. 23, 2023, at Argo City Hall. The mayor and council will hold a workshop at 5 p.m. and the meeting will immediately follow.

Photo by Hannah Curran

Former Argo Police Chief Glenn Wells and current Argo Police Chief Alan Busler present K-9 Officer Cason Davis with “Officer of the Year” award. (Photo by Crystal McGough)

on Thursday, January 5.

Among the items on the agenda were a list of 35 properties marked by the city as public nuisances. The council held a public hearing for property owners to make their cases, calling each property one by one and allowing two minutes for comment followed by two minutes of discussion by the council.

In the end, only two people addressed the council regarding property considered for abatement; Marc Scholl, a real estate agent with Arc Realty representing a property at 2633 35th Street NW, and April Levert, the owner of a property at 2309 4th Street NW. In each case, the council granted a 30-day extension.

Center Point Mayor Bobby Scott said the public hearing is part of a set of aggressive new policies the city has implemented to deal with public nuisance properties for the city, which handed out more than 2,000 citations in 2022 alone. Scott said that the new policies are already bearing fruit, and there is cause for optimism.

“I will say of the 35 properties on this list that received notifications, we actually only had 12 that did not abate,” Scott said. “So, this process is working for us, and we’ll continue to push it, and hopefully, people will get the idea.”

Council President D.M. Collins added that the city will give every cited property owner a chance to address the council before any action is taken.

“We have hearings where the owners are able to come and speak before the coun-

cil and make their case that they’re trying and allow grace and an opportunity to abate,” Collins said.

The next public hearing regarding dangerous structures eyed for demolition will take place on February 2 at 1 p.m.

During public comment, Kimberly Berry, a resident of Upland Apartment comments, addressed the council regarding the squalid state of the apartment complex that has been a sore spot for the city for years. Additionally, Berry provided the council with photographs providing visual evidence of the conditions she and her fellow residents are forced to live in at the complex.

“This place is unlivable,” Berry said. “I cannot use my bathroom. We have a rat infestation, and this is the third winter I haven’t had heat.

“I have reached out to Mayor Scott, the Department of Health, the Better Business Bureau, and I’m about to reach out to Fox 6. I shouldn’t be staying in that environment,” Berry added. “What can be done about this type environment?”

The property in question is one of two apartment complexes – Upland and Southwind – purchased by Capstone Realty & Management, a real estate company based in Lakewood, New Jersey. The company has planned to spend $2 million on a comprehensive renovation plan for both properties but has only begun work on the Southwind complex, which is unoccupied. Scott assured Berry that he and the city attorney Julian Hendrix will address the situation with Capstone immediately.

“We can’t have our resi-

own consul at no cost.

and Fortnite on Fridays. All play takes place from the comfort of your home on your

Participants must join the Trussville Parks & Recreation community on the Mission Control app at the following link: https://missioncontrol.

dents living in those conditions,” Scott said. “Our attorney will be reaching out to them tomorrow to let them know they have to fix these conditions.”

In July 2022, the City Council approved a 30 percent tax abatement plan over seven years at the request of Capstone Realty. Scott said he is not sure of the order in which Capstone planned to renovate the properties but insists that the problems affecting the livability of Upland must be addressed promptly.

“I won’t say for certain that they are falling behind, I’m not sure what their actual plan for both properties is, but we will definitely reach out and see if there is a working plan, if they’re behind or if they’re ahead of schedule,” said Scott.

“That’s not something we want to see happen or see our residents have to go through. We’ll do what we can on our part to make sure that it’s rectified.”

Collins added that rescinding the tax abatement plan is an option at this point.

“I would consider bringing it to the council,” said Collins. In other News

• The council approved a new sign ordinance placing new restrictions for commercial, business, and industrial zones;

• The council approved a new storm shelter to be located at the Center Point Community Center on Sunhill Road; and

• The City Council approved a plan by the Birmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority to continue bus service for Center Point residents at a cost of just over $111,000 per year.

app.link/communities/66.

Registration for this season ends on January 27th. For more information, contact Josh Taylor at 205-508-0198 or by email at jtaylor@trussville.org.

The monitors are located at Magnolia Elementary School, Cahaba Elementary School, Paine Elementary School, and the HT Stadium. Hewitt-Trussville High School and Hewitt-Trussville Middle School monitors will be located at the stadium.

The air quality may be checked at www.purpleair.com

By clicking on the “maps” tab. The real-time measure is shown in circles on the map. You may select the circle to

see the site of the monitor, the real-time air quality, and additional information. TCS will check the monitors on a daily basis and will monitor each site for a 3-day average in the green (satisfactory) category before resuming outdoor activities.

In addition, UAB Public Health will be sending each school in the system 15 indoor air purifiers and HEPA filters. They expect to receive the air purifiers within the next two weeks.

The City of Trussville and Trussville City Schools

are thankful to the Jefferson County Health Department and UAB Public Health Division for partnering with them to ensure the health and safety of their students.

Currently, the air quality at the four locations in Trussville are:

• Magnolia Elementary School – 4; Cahaba Elementary School – 4; Paine Elementary School – 0; and

• HT Stadium – 5.

The air quality in the Annie Lee Road area is 176.

Air quality index At-risk population Actions

Good (0-50) No risk

Moderate (51-100)

Unhealthy for sensitive groups (101-150)

Unhealthy (151-200)

Very unhealthy (201-300)

Hazardous (301-500)

People unusually sensitive to particle pollution

Older adults. Children and teenagers.

People with heart or lung disease

Enjoy the outdoors!

Unusually sensitive people: It is advisable to reduce heavy physical activity and monitor symptoms. Overall population: Outdoor activities are still a good idea!

Sensitive groups: Outdoor physical activity is allowed. Take more breaks and reduce the outdoor time. Monitor symptoms. People with asthma: Follow your asthma action plan. Keep quick relief medicine handy. People with heart diseases: Look out for palpitations, shortness of breath, or unusual fatigue. If they are present, contact your health provider, they may indicate a serious problem.

Everyone Sensitive groups: Avoid heavy physical activity. It is best to move activities indoors or reschedule. Overall population: Outdoor physical activity is allowed. Take more breaks and reduce the outdoor time if possible. Monitor symptoms.

Everyone Sensitive groups: Avoid all physical activity outdoors and change them to an indoor setting. Consider rescheduling to a time when air quality is better. Overall population: Avoid physical activity. Consider moving activities indoors.

Everyone Everyone: Remain indoors and keep activity levels low. Follow tips for keeping particle levels low indoors.

K9s, Inc. K9 Smoke’s vest was embroidered with the sentiment “This gift of protection provided by Vested Interest in K9s, Inc.”.

Vested Interest in K9s, Inc., established in 2009, is a 501(c)(3) charity whose mission is to provide bullet and stab protective vests and other assistance to dogs of law enforcement and related agencies throughout the United States. This potentially lifesaving body armor for four-legged K9 officers is U.S.-made, custom-fitted, and NIJ certified. Since its inception, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. has provided over 4,845 vests to K9s in all 50 states at a value of $6.9 million, made possible by both private and corporate donations.

The program is open to U.S. dogs that are at least 20 months old and actively employed and certified with law

enforcement or related agencies. K9s with expired vests are also eligible to participate. There are an estimated 30,000 law enforcement K9s throughout the United States.

Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. accepts tax-deductible contributions in any amount, while a single donation of $960 will sponsor one vest. Each vest has a value of $1,744-$2,283,

weighs an average of 4-5 lb., and comes with a five-year warranty. For more information or to learn about volunteer opportunities, please call 508-824-6978. Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. provides information, lists events, and accepts donations at www. vik9s.org, or you may mail your contribution to P.O. Box 9, East Taunton, MA 02718.

recycling pickups, in addition to other Waste Management concerns, Mayor Joe Cochran and the Pinson City Council are actively taking measures to get answers and reparations for the residents of Pinson.

In an effort to address these concerns, the mayor and council invited Waste Management representatives Mike Mitchell and Ken McClain to the Jan. 5, 2023, meeting of the Pinson City Council.

“I know you’ve had some operational concerns and service issues with the residents here in Pinson,” WM Birmingham District Manager Ken McClain said. “First of all, I do apologize. As a company, we strive to … place all of our customers first and foremost and try to service all of you on specified service days. We all know there are labor shortages that have affected our operation and getting drivers trained – hired, trained and staying on board with our company. I know we all continue to kind of deal with it across the waste industry, transportation industry, I think every industry right now.

“So just looking at our plan moving forward, I know I’ve made several hires for new residential drivers coming on board. I have drivers right now who are in Florida being trained. They’ll come back, they’ll go out onto their routes (and) it’ll add to our staffing and allow us to get drivers out in these trucks and into these neighborhoods to service you.”

Mayor Cochran said that, while staffing shortages are understandable, it doesn’t change the fact that residents have been paying for a service they haven’t been receiving.

“I have reports around the city of some people going six weeks without having a pickup,” he said. “I understand what the dilemmas are, but at the same time, the peoples’ bill continues to come every

quarter, and they keep paying it, so they need some recourse or something from you guys … Discount their bill for a quarter (or) something.”

Cochran explained that, according to the contract, the company’s policy for a customer to receive compensation for a missed pick-up is that each individual must call Waste Management and request a credit.

“When it’s this widespread, I think we should seek a different solution for that,” he said. “We should seek some credit toward these peoples’ bills across the contract. I know that’s beyond the scope of what you can authorize, but I’m just saying, for the citizens of Pinson, I think that would be an appropriate first step.”

Cochran said that the municipality’s job is to fight for the people of Pinson, and that’s what they’re trying to do.

“These people in these neighborhoods, they want to put their can out and then, that evening, go get it in. But they’re staying out, and staying out, and staying out,” he said. “It diminishes the neighborhood; makes it look bad. You have animals getting into it. It’s just a big mess. So, my request to you guys is to go back to your people and say, ‘How can you give some sort of credit to the people of Pinson for the lack of service that has been ongoing for two years?’”

McClain told the mayor and council that he would

bring that suggestion to his chain of command.

Additionally, Councilor Robbie Roberts mentioned that he had brought this issue before the council about a month ago where he asked the city attorney if there was any sort of legal action the city could take if the issues were not resolved.

“I’ve had a running joke about the fact that some people were starting to put Christmas decorations on their garbage cans in order to give them a holiday, festive look, because they were literally out there at the streets so long,” Roberts said. “Is your explanation, basically, to these folks, a staff shortage has continued? Is that why it hasn’t been picked up?”

McClain confirmed that the main issue is a staff shortage that has continued, and that he has been making efforts to hire new staff and get them trained as soon as possible.

“We’ve tried to put several new hires, putting them on that route,” McClain said. “That’s why on certain Thursdays, you might see some services on certain streets and then none on another. Just, kind of, trying to train the new hires and unfortunately … in the training program, some folks just don’t make it all the way through. We are working towards getting a solidified driver to work on each Thursday to service that route and service those customers.”

L-R: Waste Management representatives Ken McClain and Mike Mitchell. (Photo by Crystal McGough)

Ragland Police Department’s K9 Smoke received donation of body armor. (Photo courtesy of Officer Wells)

cLassified

Day & Time | Mondays: 6pm7pm

Cost | $36 YMCA Members | $72 Non-Members

Through this 7 week program

child will explore the power behind the foods

eat and why physical activity is important. Sessions will offer children the opportunity to learn about healthy eating, fitness, social development, and build lifelong relationships with other children their age. Children will learn through the Food & Fun Curriculum led by a Program Instructor. Sessions will be 1-hour, once per week and include classroom style learning, hands-on learning, and physical activity. (Winter Session I & II)

Start Date | January 4

Day & Time | Wednesdays: 6pm-7pm

Cost | $36 YMCA Members | $72 Non-Members

Click HERE to register.

Start Date | February 20

Day & Time | Mondays: 6pm7pm

Cost | $36 YMCA Members | $72 Non-Members

Click HERE to register.

Volleyball Skills Clinic (ages 8-16)

Learn or sharpen the basic skills of playing volleyball. Join us for this 7 week clinic to either sharpen your current skills or begin learning the skills to becoming a volleyball player. (Winter Session I)

Start Date | January 4

Day & Time | Wednesdays: 6:30pm-7:30pm (ages 8-12) | Wednesdays: 7:30pm-8:40pm (ages 13-16)

Cost | $60 YMCA Members; $120 Non-Members

Click HERE to register for ages 8-12 and HERE for ages 13-16.

STEM Enrichment (ages 5-12)

Learn about the exciting world of stem . We will follow the PCS edventures curriculum. PCS edventures curriculum includes activities such as the introduction to scratch camp, flight and aerodynamics, making air balloons, model rockets, we will also explore the world of kite making and much more. (Win ter Session II)

Start Date | February 20

Storytime for Growin’ Beans with Ms. Allison: Cars January 13 @ 10:00 am - 11:00 am Free

(All ages)

Join us for Storytime for Growin’ Beans with Ms. Allison on Friday, January 13th at 10 AM. Our theme is cars! We’ll read books, have fun, do a craft, & have a snack.

Storytime is designed for pre-K children, but all ages are welcome.

Pinson Public Library (RSMC)

2023 Alabama Wedding Showcase January 28 @ 10:00 amJanuary 29 @ 5:00 pm

magic of a Doors concert in sound and stage presence with all the classic hits like “Light My Fire,” “Riders On The Storm,” “Hello, I Love You,” and “L.A. Woman” for audiences everywhere.

Venue

Trussville Entertainment District

Frankly Scarlet- A Tribute to the Grateful Dead May 6 @ 7:00 pm - 10:00 pm

FREE SHOW – ALL AGES

Join us for a fun night with Frankly Scarlet (Atlanta, GA ) that plays the music of the Grateful Dead…… and they put their own “fingerprint” on it.

Venue

Trussville Entertainment District

Kiss Army – A Kiss Tribute Band September 1 @ 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm

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The first annual Alabama Wedding Showcase presented by The Trussville Tribune, sponsored by Shirley’s Florist, will take place on January 28th and 29th at the Trussville Civic Center. We will have dozens of vendors for all your engagement, wedding, and honeymoon needs.

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widely beloved entertainer and profoundly influential artist of all-time. Bobby Miller presents an electrifying performance that can be best described as, high energy and a “must see” performance.

The Prince Purple Madness Tribute Show have all but per-

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It is with great honor and utmost reverence that The Prince Tribute Band was formed. For anyone who wasn’t fortunate enough to have witnessed Prince live show, the experience was undeniably one of the best live performances on the planet. It was with this idea in mind that

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Couch,, Bed frame & Mattress, chairs, box spring, old tote D89

Auction will be held at Fultondale Mini Storage 2403 Decatur Hwy Fultondale, AL 35068 on 1/14/22 at 10.00 AM.

tion team consist of Bobby Miller as the artist, backed by some of the most talented dancers and musicians that have toured the US and abroad. Collectively, the team consists of over a 100 years of music experience. The group lovingly describes their show as a performance that is second to none.

Venue

Venue Trussville Civic Center

Ferus Presents: The Dirty Doors: a Tribute to The Doors April 15 @ 7:00 pm - 10:00 pm

The Dirty Doors: A Tribute celebrates the energy, excitement, and passion of the timeless music of Jim Morrison and The

Kiss Army – THE COOLEST BAND IN THE WORLD is coming to Trussville Alabama on September 1st 2023. Come Rock and Roll all night and party to all of your favorite tunes from KISS.

Venue Trussville Entertainment District

Presents: The Purple Madness September 15 @

Trussville Entertainment District

o bitua R y

Mary Sue Reed

march 24, 1946 ~ december 27, 2022

(age 76)

Mrs. Mary Sue Reed, favorably known as Mama Sue, 76, departed this life on December 27, 2022, at Home Sweet Home in Gardendale, Alabama, following a long battle with kidney disease. She was the daughter of Owen E. Huffstutler and Olyn Brown Huffstutler. She is survived by two children, Ronald Joe Reed (Katherine) and Debra Sue Cousins (Edward), three grandchildren, Jeremy Cousins, Alyssa Reed and Anakin Lau and many friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents and husband, Bobby Joe Reed. Services will be held at Jefferson Memorial Gardens in Trussville, Alabama on Friday, January 6, 2023. Family visitation is from 10:00 - 11:00 AM, regular visitation from 11:00 - 12:00 followed by a 12:00 PM service with burial in adjoining cemetery.

In honor of her unconditional love for all animals, the family asks that in lieu of flowers, a donation be made to Missing Link Rescue in Gardendale, Alabama or any animal organization of your choice.

Shannon McFall Coker

april 23, 1972 ~ january 1, 2023

(age 50)

Shannon McFall Coker, age 50, loving mother of Giana and Luciana, and adoring wife of Dave, died on 01 January 2023, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Shannon was born in 1972 in Bessemer AL to Joel Mcfall and Linda Rhodes. Shannon was influenced by her parents and grandmother Faye Manderson to be a loving caring person, always putting others first.

Shannon graduated from McAdory High School in 1990. Shannon also received three degrees in nursing to include a Masters in Nursing from UAB in 2012. Shannon’s servants’ heart was witnessed by many in her 25 years of nursing and many mission trips.

Shannon’s faith and love of fellow man was never more apparent than when she was on mission trips. Shannon made it a point to hug everyone that came to the clinic, no matter the reason for being there. Everyone that saw Shannon on a mission trip could see God’s love for us in her. Shannon is now talking to people that came to know Jesus on those trips without the need of a translator.

Shannon’s love of people was only slightly ahead of her love of animals. Shannon’s homes were always full of cats and dogs. But no matter how many were there she always felt there might be room for one more. Even if Shannon could not take the animal in, she always did what she could to find it a forever home. Shannon was a dedicated mother first and foremost. She loved and treasured her children and embraced every moment with them. Shannon took every opportunity to instill in her girls the love of Jesus, a strong work ethic, how to be strong without being overbearing, and how not only to stand up for yourself but to stand up for others as well. Shannon understood that if you cannot prepare the world for your children, then you have to prepare your children for the world. Shannon’s teachings and examples would cover many scenarios, but her greatest wisdom to impart was; always do the right thing, for the right reasons, for everyone.

Shannon was preceded in death by her daughter Gabriella Lee Coker, father Joel McFall, grandmother Faye Manderson, uncle Wayne Manderson.

Shannon is survived by her husband Dave, daughters Giana and Luciana, mother Linda Rhodes, sisters Kim (Dennis) Todd, Kori (Destin) McFall, parents George and Peggy Coker, brothers Josh Coker, Charles Bryant, Uncle James (Ashley) Coker, and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

The family would like to thank the nurses, therapists, and doctors of UAB Hospital, and Ascension at Home, for their invaluable care and compassion to Shannon.

Visitation will be held at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home on Tuesday, January 10th from 5:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m., Services will be held at Evergreen Methodist Church, with graveside to follow on Wednesday, January 11th at 12:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, Shannon had requested donations be made to Pell City Animal Shelter 1071 Airport Road Pell City, AL 35128 phone: 205-814-1567.

Betty Lou Wise

january 31, 1936 ~ december 29, 2022 (age 86)

Betty Lou Wise, passed away, Thursday, December 29, 2022. The family will receive friends at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home on Wednesday, January 4, 2023 from 11:00am – 12:00 pm. Funeral Services will begin at 12:00pm and Graveside Services will follow.

She is survived by her daughter, Glenda Wise (Pam Winchell); brother, Gary Hamilton (Becky); twin sister, Peggy Cash; and a host of nieces and nephews.

Betty is preceded in death by her sons; William Wise, Arnold Wise; mother, Mae Hamilton; father; Archie Hamilton; brothers, Hugh Hamilton, and James Hamilton.

She grew up in Ashville, AL attending Ashville High School and resided her adult life in Birmingham, AL and later Mobile, AL. Betty loved to read, cross stitch, and go shopping (or should I say looking). She also loved music and enjoyed listening to Elvis Presley and Country Gospel. One of her favorite hobbies was collecting pigs. She was a member of Pineview Baptist Church. Ms. Betty was truly loved by her family and will be greatly missed.

Barbara C. Posner

april 11, 1927 ~ december 31, 2022 (age 95)

Barbara Cotton Posner, age 95, of Homewood went to be with the Lord on Saturday December 31, 2022. She was born in Hobson AL on April 11, 1927. She graduated from Alabama College in 1952 and continued her education at The University of Alabama by completing a Master of Arts degree in Home Economics in 1966. She was retired from the Birmingham City School System and spent time at Woodlawn, Phillips, and Ramsay High Schools during her career.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband Tyler J. Posner, her parents Gilford Daniel and Barbara Cotton, brothers Ernest (Mary), G.D. (Helen), Sisters Vivian Goodner (Bill), Verna Czeskleba (Bert), Stella Doggette (Wyman), and sister-in-law Dora Jane Cotton.

She is survived by her brother Jimmy Cotton of Hobson, AL and a large family of nieces and nephews. She and her husband were world travelers and enjoyed a happy 65-year marriage. They were long time members of 1st Presbyterian Church of Birmingham.

Visitation will be held at 11:00 AM at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home and Gardens in Trussville on Thursday January 5th. Funeral Service will follow at 12:00 PM.

In lieu of Flowers, donations can be made in Barbara’s name at Children’s Hospital in Birmingham AL. God is Good All the Time All the Time God is Good

Kathy P ate

august 7, 1959 ~ january 1, 2023 (age 63)

Kathy Buchanan Pate, age 63, of Trussville, AL, passed away at her home on January 1, 2023 after a hard fought battle with breast cancer. Kathy grew up in Roebuck, AL and graduated from Huffman High School in 1977.

She is preceded in death by her parents Roland and Bettie “Jean” Buchanan. She is survived by her husband, Mark Pate; her daughter, Kellie Sanna, her husband, Matthew and their two children, Kaitlyn and Mackenzie; her son, Logan Pate, his wife, Elizabeth, and their two children, Cameron and Caroline; her brothers, Martin and Ken Buchanan, and their families.

The family will receive friends for funeral services at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home in Trussville, AL on Friday, January 6th at 10am.

Irene P rickett Skelton

october 13, 1931 ~ january 1, 2023 (age 91)

How to Stay Healthy to Survive Grief

Following the loss of a loved one, you may find it challenging to focus on everyday activities or to invest meaning into the things that once brought you purpose or pleasure. This can extend even to such seemingly mundane tasks as sleeping, eating, and exercising—all of which can be thrown into chaos by feelings of grief.

Yet, as you grieve and mourn, it becomes more important than ever that you take care of yourself. Grief takes a massive emotional toll, and the only way to withstand it is to keep both your body and your mind in shape.

Sleeplessness is a common symptom of grief, but there are simple steps you can take to maximize your odds of drifting off: Take a warm, soothing bath before bed. Make sure your room is totally dark and cool, and your pillows and blankets are comfortable. Eliminate the presence of electronic devices.

Many who are grieving will go long stretches where they simply forget to eat. Make it a point to get your three meals a day. Keep healthy but convenient foods in the house, like salad fixings you can throw together in just a moment’s time.

Finally, try to get some physical activity each day, even if that’s just a walk through your neighborhood. The combination of sunshine and physical activity can give you a natural endorphin rush— a powerful way to stay strong even during a tough season of bereavement.

Irene Prickett Skelton passed away on January 1, 2023. Born October 13, 1931, she was preceded in death by her husband Johnny Skelton and son Will Skelton.

She is survived by children Trisha Trigg (Scott), Johnna Thayer, Rebecca Osborn (Jimmy), Jeff Skelton (Carrie Thompson) and Judson Skelton (Hena).

Surviving grandchildren Brian Guest (Jennifer), Chris Guest (Kim), Nick Guest, Ryan Thayer (Mandy), Ben Thayer (Kisha), Anna Townsend (Danny), Luke Osborn, Jake Osborn (Sarah), Mike Skelton (Stephanie), Chris Skelton (Cory), Sarah Thompson (Joshua), Mary Ellen Skelton, Gracie Skelton, Jack Skelton, Kate Skelton and Lily Skelton.

Great grandchildren Edie Guest, Ella Guest, Graham Guest, Eagan Guest, Madalyn Thayer, Matthew Thayer, Noah Thayer, Brooks Thayer, John Usry, Caroline Osborn, Ben Osborn, Garrett Skelton, Sydney Skelton, Stone Skelton, Cash Skelton, and step-grandchildren Graham and Anna Owens.

A loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, she never missed the opportunity to celebrate life events by giving a quilt she made by hand. Her family will be kept warm for years because of her talent and generosity. She loved Disney movies and anything British.

Special

the dedicated staff at Fresenius Trussville, especially Trina and Roshunda; and faithful friends

Livingston, Rachel Manget and Sue Meeks. The family also wishes to thank Compassus Hospice nurse Nancy O'Neal and Visiting Angels nurses Hilari Braggs and Adama Karmara.

Visitation will be Monday, January 9 at 11:00 am and graveside service at 12:00 noon at Jefferson Memorial Trussville.

thanks to

Maureen

Eddie Seal, General Manager

Jefferson Memorial is a full-service funeral home and perpetual care cemetery dedicated to serving our community with dignity and compassion. We Make it Personal® , one family at a time.

By Johnny Sanders Sports Editor

TRUSSVILLE – Kenleigh Cahalan has known nothing but success during her softball career at Hewitt Trussville High School and she is graduating early and enrolling at Bama to get a head start on bringing that success to the Alabama Crimson Tide softball team.

Following the 2022 season, Cahalan was selected Miss Softball as a Junior as well as the 7A Player of the year. She hit for an average of .549 with 13 home runs, 66 RBI, 71 runs, 22 doubles, 5 triples and 52 walks, which led all of Alabama high school softball. She also led 7A with a .678 on base percentage and 1.713 OPS, striking out only 7 times in 144 at-bats. She was also ranked as the top player in the nation for the 2023 season by Perfect Game Softball.

With Cahalan on the team, Hewitt appeared in 3 consecutive state championship games, winning the blue map in 2019 and 2021. The only thing that kept them from winning it in 2020 was COVID (there was no softball that year). In 2022, the Huskies came up short against Thompson.

Other accolades for Cahalan were MaxPreps state player of the year and two-time Gatorade Player of the Year

Kenleigh Cahalan headed to Tuscaloosa early

finalist and two-time PGF and MxPreps All-American.

She also played for the Birmingham Thunderbolts during the summer, helping her PGF 18U team to a National Championship.

Kenleigh’s high school coach Taylor Burt said this about the star athlete, “Kenleigh is an extraordinary athlete and person. She’s one of the most disciplined and hard-working players I have ever had the opportunity to coach, which has afforded her the opportunity of enrolling early at The University of Alabama to play for Coach Murphy.”

Coach Burt continued, “She leaves Hewitt as the most decorated softball player to come through our program. We are proud of her and couldn’t be happier for the opportunity that she has been given. We will definitely miss her around her, no doubt about that, but we know she will thrive and excel this spring competing with the best of the best in college softball.”

Cahalan joins incoming Freshmen Abby Duchscherer, Marlie Giles, Larissa Preuitt and Kristen White on the Crimson Tide Softball team along with 13 returning starters from last year’s team. Alabama opens their season by hosting the Leadoff Classic at Rhoads Stadium on February 10-11.

Kenleigh Calahan committed to play softball for The University of Alabama. (Photo courtesy of Kenleigh Cahalan)

By Johnny Sanders Sports Editor

PINSON – On Monday, Pinson Valley High School’s Head Football Coach Lee Guess resigned from his position after just one season, citing a work/life balance as the reason for his departure.

A Hewitt Trussville graduate who played his collegiate football at Auburn University, Lee Guess has been at Pinson in some capacity for a while. He served as wide receiver’s coach for 5 years under Matt Glover and Patrick Nix and then transitioned into the Offensive Coordinator role under Sam Shade. When Shade left to become Head Coach at Miles College, Guess served as interim Head Coach. In May, the “interim” tag was removed and Guess was handed the reigns to the Pinson Valley football program.

Guess led the Indians to a 6-4 record in 2022 and a playoff appearance against the 6A runners-up, Mountain Brook.

He also coached Seniors TJ Metcalf, who signed with Arkansas, and Amare Thomas, who signed with UAB.

Of his resignation, the coach said, “The responsibilities of a head coach on and off the field are weighty. In my opinion, what makes a successful coach is one who can balance those responsibilities alongside the responsibilities of a spouse and parent. Achieving that balance proved to be very difficult and frankly more than I want to put my family through. So, with much prayer and consideration, I’ve decided to step away from coaching in

order to focus on my roles as a husband and father. I can no longer allow my life to be consumed with work at the expense of my family,” he said. “I want to uphold my responsibility as a husband to love my wife as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her. Marriage is a clear example of how the gospel is portrayed, and I can’t sacrifice my relationship with my wife in pursuit of a career that continues to jeopardize that.”

Guess plans to continue teach and be a part of the transition to the new coaching regime. “My plans are to stay at Pinson as a teacher and continue mentoring students and student-athletes in the classroom,” said Guess.

“I will continue to serve our players with a strong off-season workout plan until the next head coach is transitioned into that role. I will make every effort to ensure the transition is beneficial for

Husky boys blast Chelsea to begin region play

By Johnny Sanders Sports Editor

TRUSSVILLE — The Hewitt Trussville Huskies have been on a hot streak of late and coach Jeremy Monceaux would love nothing more than to keep that momentum when region play started on Friday night when the Chelsea Hornets came to town. The Hewitt coach got his wish with a 59-31 win over the Hornets.

“Great win for our team,” said Coach Monceaux. “I thought we came out a little tight with it being our first area game. But once we settled in we played really well on both ends of the floor.”

The first quarter was a bit of a defensive struggle for both teams, only producing 21 points total. Hewitt had 11 of them, led by Ray Rolley, who had 6 of those points.

The Husky defense held Chelsea to just 10 points.

Pinson gets region win against rival Cougars, 72-46

By Johnny Sanders Sports Editor

PINSON – The top-ranked Pinson Valley Indians welcomed the Clay Chalkville Cougars into Mike Dutton Gym on Friday night for a key region matchup, looking to stay undefeated on the season. Mission accomplished. Despite a slow start, the Indians pulled away late and never looked back, defeating their rivals 72-46 in front of a standing room only crowd.

“I thought our team’s performance was ok,” said Clay Coach Chris Richardson. “It’s always a tough place to come play just because of the atmosphere. It’s a small gym. If you’re a ball player, you want to play in this game. They play and shoot very well here. But we had just an ok to bad performance”

Hewitt continued playing well on the defensive side of the ball, absolutely dominating Chelsea and holding them to just 3 points in the quarter, all free throws. Meanwhile,

The first quarter started with a bang as Pinson’s Caleb White put up the game’s first points with a thunderous slam dunk that got the fans into the game quickly. But that quickly fizzled out as the teams

would both struggle to score in the first period. Pinson would outscore Clay 13-8 in the quarter with Caleb White and Chauncey Thirkill put-

Austin Connor drives to the hoop with Kevin Kirk and Tiawan Hardy Jr defending (Photo By Johnny Sanders)

Ray Rolley File Photo (Photo courtesy of Hewitt-Trussville Athletics)

By Johnny Sanders Sports Editor

Jacksonville – The Springville Lady Tigers traveled to Jacksonville Wednesday in a game that was originally scheduled for Tuesday night but had to be rescheduled due to weather and walked out of the gym with a big victory thanks to a fast start.

The Tigers jumped out to a big lead in the first quarter. Farrah Hawkins led the way with 7 points in the first quarter while Audrey Talton added 6 of her own, hitting 2 3-pointers. The quarter would end with Springville leading the host team 22-13.

Springville would slow it down in the second, scoring only 6 points. But the defense held Jacksonville to just 5 points, allowing just one

player to score in the quarter. Leah Bowden, Abby Byrd and Bella Bullington each put up

Lady

win over

By Johnny Sanders Sports Editor

PINSON – The Clay Chalkville Lady Cougars basketball team traveled to Pinson Friday night for a regional matchup between cross-town rivals and walked out of Mike Dutton Gym with a big win.

The Cougars and Indians both started sort of sluggish, only combining for 17 points in the first quarter. Pinson got the early lead 9-8 with Jada Griffin scoring 4 of the Indians’ points and Cheyenne Pearson with 6 for the Cougars.

The second quarter would be a bit different as the Cougars would see points scored by 6 different players, putting up 19 points and holding Pinson to just 5 in the period. Clay’s Kamoriah Gaines and

Tyra Bynum had 6 points each to lead the Cougars while Griffin stayed consistent, adding 4 more points to her total for the Indians. Clay would head into the locker room with a commanding 2714 lead.

to build their lead by outscoring Pinson 14-10. Griffin would score 6 points to lead the Indians once again. Clay’s Kameron Sanders would make her presence known by scoring 8 of her team’s 14 points in the quarter, helping

See COUGARS, Page 12

By Loyd McIntosh For The Tribune

IRONDALE – The Shades Valley girls basketball team rolled to an easy win over the Lady Colonels of Woodlawn, 51-15 to earn their first region win Friday night.

The Lady Mounties dominated the action from the opening whistle, despite a solid effort for the first twoand-a-half quarters by Woodlawn. However, midway through the third quarter the Lady Colonels Head

Jaikyliah Ravizee (Photo by Loyd McIntosh)

Coach Ilishia Jarrett threw in the towel and the Lady Colonels

Shades Valley came into their opening game in region play with a record of 9-3, which includes a one-point victory over East Limestone County, 45-44, in tournament action on December 29. Woodlawn arrived in Irondale with a 4-5 record, but have struggled to put up points in recent games, including a 50-6 loss to Minor and a 5722 loss to Parker in December.

See SHADES

essentially quit.

VALLEY, Page 12

Cheyenne Pearson (Photo By Johnny Sanders)

Springville girls jump out to early lead, beat Jacksonville 56-38

Springville girls' head coach Warren House talks to his team during a timeout (Photo by Bobby Mathews)

ting up 4 points each to lead the Indians, while 4 different Cougars would spread the load, scoring 2 points each.

Both offenses would find some rhythm in the second quarter as Pinson scored 20 and the Cougars put 16 points on the board. The Indians’ Austin Connor started his phenomenal night by scoring 11 points in the second quarter. Clay’s Tiawan Hardy Jr got 7 points to lead the Cougars in the quarter. The halftime score would be 33-24 with Pinson leading.

Coming out of the locker room, Pinson would keep the momentum going, but the Indians’ defense would smother Clay in the third quarter, holding them to just 6 points while scoring 17 of their own. Pinson was led by Ca-

Cougars

From page 10

the Cougars to a 41-24 lead heading into the final period.

Pinson would find their most success offensively in the fourth quarter, putting up 16 points against the Cougars, led by Griffin again, and Alissa Hawkins who had 5 points each for the Indians. However, the Pinson defense could not slow down the Cougars

Springville

From page 11

2 points in the quarter for the Tigers. Springville would go into the half with a 28-18 lead.

Springville would come out of the locker room shooting, adding 12 points to their total while holding Jacksonville to 7 points. Hawkins would again lead the Tigers in scoring for the quarter, scoring 5 of the 12 points. Heading into the final frame, the Tigers held a 40-25 lead.

leb White, who had 6 points. The Cougars’ Hardy joined Victor Ordiari and Kevin Kirk with 2 points each to make up the 6 points scored in the third. Pinson would head into the final period with a 50-20 lead.

Clay would score 16 again in the fourth quarter, but it would not be enough to overcome the Pinson offense, who put up 22 of their own. Austin Connor would own the night in the fourth, scoring 15 of his team’s points for the period. Clay would once again spread out the scoring with 6 different players getting in on the scoring. Colin Owens led the team with 4 for the quarter.

Pinson’s leading scorer was no surprise as Austin Connor put up a whopping 27 points followed by Amarion Bowens with 11. Clay was led on the night by Tiawan

and they also scored 16 points in the quarter, led by Brooklyn Phillips with 5 points.

Pinson’s Jada Griffin led the Indians in scoring with 19 points, followed by Alissa Hawkins with 13. Clay was led by Cheyenne Pearson, who had 16 points on the night, and Kameron Sanders with 12.

“We got off to a slow start. One of our better scorers got 2 quick fouls in the first minute of the game,” said Kevin

The final stanza was basically the same old story on the night. Springville would 16 points on the back of an amazing 9-point quarter by Hawkins to lead the way.

Jacksonville would put up a bit of a fight, scoring 13 of their own, but it would not be enough to overcome the dominance of the first 3 quarters of the game. Springville would get the 56-38 win over Jacksonville.

Springville Head Coach Warren House said, “The

Hardy Jr with 11 points followed by Kevin Kirk with 7.

“I wasn’t too pleased with the first two quarters at all,” said Darrell Barber, Pinson’s coach. “We knew it would be a dog fight. It’s an area game, it’s a rivalry game. Regardless of records, we knew they were going to come in here and play hard. In the third quarter we held them to 6 points and that’s the type of defense I wanted to see coming out of the half.”

“It’s tough. Finding a way to motivate these guys. We know we are going to get everyone’s best each night. We have to stay motivated and stay humble. We just have to keep working.”

The Indians turn around Saturday night and play Haleyville in an attempt to stay perfect on the season while the Cougars host Hueytown on Wednesday night.

Connor, coach of the Cougars. “Tyra Bynum came in and gave us some big-time minutes. The difference in the game was Cheyenne Pearson in the paint. She scored 16 points and controlled the game.”

The Cougars will look to continue their winning ways by hosting Hueytown on Wednesday night. Pinson looks to rebound on Saturday with a visit from Homewood.

team played with better intensity than they have in the past few games. We did a great job rebounding. We out-rebounded them 42-20. Ava Vaughn led with 10 of them.”

No surprise that Farrah Hawkins was the leading scorer as she had 21 points on the night. Following Hawkins was Audrey Talton who had 10 herself.

The Lady Tigers improved to 10-7 on the season heading into their Friday night rivalry game at St. Clair County.

Shades Valley

From page 11

Led by junior forward Angela Williams and junior point guard Jaikyliah Ravizee, the Lady Mounties controlled most of the action on both ends of the floor. Despite Woodlawn’s ability to move the ball around the perimeter, the Lady Mountie’s defense was just too much for the Lady Colonels as they created multiple scoring opportunities in transition throughout the game, especially in the first half.

The Lady Mounties jumped out to a quick and commanding lead in the opening frame, leading 11-2 with five minutes to play in the first quarter. The Lady Colonels shooters cerated some opportunities however, reeling off a 5-2 run in the latter half of the first period, cutting Shades Valley’s lead to six points, 13-7.

The second quarter belonged to Williams as she practically took over the contest, creating turnovers, blocking shots, and creating

Husky boys

From page 10

Reid Stodghill put up 8 of Hewitt’s 15 points in the second, sending his team into the locker room with a 26-13 lead over the Hornets.

In the third, Hewitt once again took care of business on the defensive side of the ball, holding Chelsea to only 8 points. Rolley (8 points), Legion Gaston (6 points) and Karnell Smith (6 points) combined for 20 points in the quarter to put the Huskies

Lee Guess

From page 10

the players and program.”

He closed the letter with gratitude, saying, “I am for-

scoring opportunities for herself and her teammates. The Lady Mounties went on a 29-2 run, not allowing a score from Woodlawn until 4:29 in the second quarter.

By halftime, Shades Valley held a comfortable lead, 37-11.

Shades Valley started the second half hot as they pushed the lead to 49-13 with just over four minutes to play in the third quarter. It was at this point that Jarrett had had enough.

For the rest of the game, the Lady Colonels stalled as their guard simply bounced ball in place near the Woodlawn bench for minutes at a time, only half-heartedly attempting an offensive play once in a while.

The fourth quarter was much of the same. The Lady Colonels essentially took a knee in the final period during their possessions as they ran the clock out. Fewer than five shooting attempts were made among both teams in the final quarter as Jarett instructed her players to stall as the clock finally –

up 46-21 with just one more frame to go.

Hewitt would close out the game by outscoring Chelsea 13-10 in the final quarter. Gaston and teammate Tyler Blake had 3 points to lead the Huskies scoring in the fourth. The end result was a dominant 59-31 victory to make Hewitt 1-0 in region play.

Ray Rolley, as he has done many times this year, led the Huskies in scoring, with 19 points. Stodghill ended the night with 13 points.

“Probably the best perfor-

ever grateful to the coaches who have impacted my life in a positive way. It has been my desire to have that same positive impact for these kids. It was an honor coaching and

and mercifully – ran down to zeros.

Lady Mounties Head Coach Gary Ferguson was gracious in his post-game comments, and even tipped his hat to the Lady Colonel’s for catching them off guard during the few times they drove to the hoop in the second half.

“I really didn’t feel they were quitting,” said Ferguson. “I know they’re very young and with some of that stuff, I think she was trying to execute particular plays. I looked at it more so as a delay and seeing if we could maintain our focus.

“Actually, on two occasions, she got two good looks as we kind lost our focus while they were in their delay game,” he added. “So we’ll tell our players you have to stay focused from start to finish.”

Williams led all scorers with 14 points, followed by Ravizee with 12 points. The Lady Mounties will travel to Pell City to take on the Lady Panthers on Tuesday, December 10.

mance of the year for senior guard Ray Rolley. And if we are going to continue to play well, it will start with him,” said Coach Monceaux. “The crowd at tonight’s game was awesome. We have some huge games coming up and I hope the community will continue to support our team. It is exciting to see Bryant Bank Arena packed and it really helps our team.”

The Huskies improve to 15-6 on the season, 1-0 in region play. They will travel to Oak Mountain on Tuesday.

mentoring your kids this past year. Thank you.”

Pinson hopes to move quickly and have the new head coach in place within the next few weeks.

Austin Connor - Pinson Valley Basketball