The Trussville Tribune – January 13 - 19, 2021

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Pinson to hold parade for 2020 PVHS football team, council approves funds to resurface baseball, softball fields

By Crystal McGough

PINSON — During the Jan. 7, 2021, Pinson City Council meeting.

See PINSON PARADE, Page 4

New flashing school zone signs installed around Trussville City Schools

See SCHOOL CROSSING, Page 7

Springville approves sales tax holiday for storm preparedness

By Terry Schrimscher

SPRINGVILLE — The City of Springville will join cities around Alabama in observance of the state’s Severe Weather Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday during the last weekend of February 2021.

See SPRINGVILLE COUNCIL, Page 5

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TRUSSVILLE — The Trussville Police Department released its annual report comparing data from 2020 to data from 2019. The report shows overall crime was down in the city in 2020 and only a few types of crime, including unlawful breaking and entering of vehicles, and identity theft, saw slight increases. Other increases seen included noise complaints and overdose calls.

The data in the annual report was pulled from call for service (CFS) data. It shows the Trussville Police Department received 16,153 calls for service in 2020, compared to 19,036 calls in 2019.

Trussville Police Chief Eric Rush credits social distancing and quarantines for the decrease in calls.

“The COVID lockdowns are the main reason,” said Rush. “There were several months where not much at all was happening. Most businesses were closed and our daily call volume was down overall.”

The report is split into several categories: crimes against persons, property crimes, crimes involving theft, crimes against public order, robbery, domestic violence, traffic accidents, and citations/warnings.

In the crimes against persons category, assaults, harassments and missing persons cases were down in 2020 compared to 2019. There was no increase in homicides.

However, the number of unlawful breaking and entering of vehicles increased from 60 in 2019 to 66 in 2020. The Chief of Police continually

warned people throughout the year about the importance of keeping vehicles secure. He said he will continue to do so and he hopes people heed the warning.

“I really just think that most people are complacent and just simply forget to lock their car doors at night,” said Rush. “All I can do is continue to inform the community about these crimes and the importance of removing valuables and locking their cars.”

Another increase was seen in identity thefts. In 2019, there were 96 calls about

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Family Needs Diabetic Alert Dog

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50 Cents Overall crime down in Center Point, Clay, Pinson areas

identity theft. In 2020, there were 126, making for a 31% increase. Rush said people choosing to shop online because of the pandemic could be a reason for the increase.

“I feel like it’s due the increase in online shopping due to COVID,” he said. “Personal identifying information is easier to steal online than it is by shopping in an actual retail store. Plus we are seeing an increase in scams that are done by phone and email.”

If you or someone you know has been a victim of a scam, you can report the issue to the Federal Trade Commission by clicking on the link in this story at www.TrussvilleTribune.com.

In 2020, the number of overdose calls doubled the 2019 number, making for a 100% increase. In 2019, there were 13 overdose calls and in 2020, there were 26.

“Overdoses doubled this past year and I really don’t have a solid reason why,” Rush said. “We have a narcotics unit that works drug cases every day.

See TRUSSVILLE CRIME, Page 5

New mural at Clay Elementary meant to bring smiles

By Erica Thomas, managing editor

CLAY — The principal at Clay Elementary School is hoping his latest creation will breed positivity in the halls of his school but he is quick to point out that he didn’t do it alone.

Dr. Jacqnaii Finkley said a new mural painted in the hallway at the school has a special touch from each teacher and will soon have a special touch from students.

The Peanuts-themed mural shows Snoopy and the other Peanuts characters in a winter wonderland full of snow, ice and birch trees. Schroeder is, of course, on his piano, Charlie Brown is holing a snowball, and Snoopy is interacting with two Woodstocks from atop his red dog house.

Finkley, who is in his second year as Principal at the school, said his inspiration for the mural was his staff and his students.

“We had frames on our walls and we decided to go in a different direction,” said Finkley. “It was very institutional and wasn’t very invit-

See CENTER POINT CRIME, Page 3

Young boy saves 5-year-old sister during armed robbery attempt in Moody From The Tribune staff reports

MOODY — Moody Police Chief Thomas Hunt plans to recognize a heroic young boy who recently took action in the midst of danger.

See BOY SAVES SISTER, Page 3

Vaccination appointments available for many Alabamians starting Jan. 18

See VACCINE, Page 3

ing for kids.”

To Finkley, the wall was much more than a place for frames. As an artist himself, he saw a canvas.

“Every day I would come out of my office and say, ‘that’s a nice wall to paint something on,” said Finkley.

So, he started the mural and before he knew it, there was a winter wonderland with Charlie Brown and all of his friends. As a way to involve teachers, Finkley invited

them to the wall to add their own Woodstocks.

“I wanted them to have something personal,” said Finkley. “Like we have a teacher that loves riding a bike, so one Woodstock is on a bike.”

Other personal touches include a Woodstock with a Troy University coffee mug and Woodstock nurse, made by the school nurse.

The mural will stay on the wall as long as it is loved in

the school. As a Leader in Me School, Finkley said Clay Elementary has other artistic touches, such as painted restrooms, in order to “decorate school culture.”

Finkley said the idea to do Peanuts came to him because as a child, Charlie Brown was a staple in his childhood.

“Nothing represents childhood like these characters,” Finkley added.

See CLAY ELEMENTARY, Page 6

5886 Trussville Crossings Blvd 205.655.3388

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CENTER POINT — The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office reported crime statistics, comparing 2019 and 2020, showing violent crime numbers decreased overall.

In Jefferson County, there was a 14% decrease in violent crimes.

MONTGOMERY — Gov. Kay Ivey and the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) announced Friday that COVID-19 vaccinations will be provided for people 75 years or older.

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News - Pages 1-5 Education - Pages 6-7 Calendar - Page 7 Classified - Page 7 Obituary - Page 8 Sports - Pages 9-10

From The Tribune staff reports

From The Tribune staff reports

Robin’s Sewing Shoppe

Inside the Tribune

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2020 overall crime down in Trussville, car break-ins up

By Erica Thomas, managing editor

See TCS GROUNDBREAKING, Page 6

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www.TrussvilleTribune.com

January 13 - 19, 2021 Trussville City Schools breaks ground on new central office

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Leeds Council authorizes COVID hazard pay, appoints redevelopment, historic commission heads

By Nathan Prewett

LEEDS — The Leeds City Council authorized a one-time hazard pay for city employees and made appointments to the Redevelopment Authority and the historic commission during a brief meeting online on Monday, Jan. 4, 2021.

See LEEDS COUNCIL, Page 3

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Trussville Tribune 190 Main Street Trussville, AL 35173 (205) 533-8664 Scott Buttram, Publisher publisher@trussvilletribune.com Erica Thomas, Managing Editor news@trussvilletribune.com 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

Trussville hosting chili cookoff and obstacle course race From The Tribune staff reports

TRUSSVILLE — Trussville Parks and Recreation will host a chili cookoff and obstacle course race on Saturday, Feb. 6, 2021. The dual event will be held at the Trussville Civic Center from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m.

The chili cookoff will be in the exhibit hall. Participants should arrive at 9 a.m.

Judging will take place from 11 a.m. until noon. Participants must pay a $50 entry fee. Categories will include People’s Choice, Not Your Grandma’s Chili, Where’s the Beef? and Fire in the Belly!

Doors will open to the public at noon and general admission will be $5.

Anyone interested in judging the chili cookoff should contact Tim White at (205) 508-0358 or email twhite@trussville.org.

The Inaugural TPR Obstacle Course will be on the multi-purpose field at the civic center. It will be split

into timeframes based on age: • 6 – 7 years-old: 9 a.m. – 10 a.m.

• 8 – 9 years-old: 10 a.m. – 11 a.m.

• 10 – 11 years-old: 11 a.m.

– 12 p.m.

• 12 – 13 years-old: 12 p.m.

– 1 p.m.

• 14 – 16 years-old: 1 p.m.

– 2 p.m.

The registration fee for the obstacle course is $20.

Rules for the Chili CookOff + Registration links for the Chili Cook-Off and the Obstacle Course can be found @ https://trussville. org/departments/parks-recreation/recreation-activities/.

COVID-19 vaccine hotline available for Jefferson County From The Tribune staff reports

Member of the Alabama Press Association

January 13 - 19, 2021

BIRMINGHAM — The Jefferson County Emergency Management Agency (JCEMA) announced a new call center is open to provide assistance to the public concerning the COVID-19 vaccine.

The EMA’s Unified Com-

mand (JCUC) along with the Jefferson County Department of Health (JCDH) established the hotline to coordinate vaccinations for critical populations in the county.

Vaccines are currently being given to frontline healthcare workers, emergency medical service (EMS) providers, and residents of long-

term care facilities, as Phase 1a the plan released by the Advisory Committee of Immunization Practices (ACIP).

Anyone in this category can contact the JCUC Call Center at 205-85VACC1 (205-8582221).

The JCDH is monitoring the distribution of vaccines and will inform the public when Phase 1a is complete.

Phase 1b will include essential workers such as educators, fire, police and transportation workers.

The call center is open from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

For general information about COVID-19 vaccination in Alabama, visit www. alabamapublichealth.gov/ covid19.

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January 13 - 19, 2021

Leeds Council From front page

According to the City of Leeds website, meetings for the council are being held virtually based on guidelines from the “State and local EMA, the Jefferson County Health Department and UAB” who have discouraged in-person meetings as the virus situation remains.

The meeting was recorded and can be heard by clicking the link in this story on www.

TrussvilleTribune.com.

The agenda listed three items, the first of which included appointing the heads of the Leeds Redevelopment Authority and the Historic Preservation Commission. Larry King was appointed to the redevelopment authority and

Leeds Jane Culbreth Library Director Melanie Carden was reappointed to the commission.

Afterward, the council authorized a one-time hazard pay of $250 for city employees. The payment was made as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, which continues to affect communities everywhere.

A number of people in Leeds, as well as in the city government, have contracted the virus, including Leeds Police Chief Jim Atkinson, who Councilman Eric Turner said has been improving in health.

Another city employee was infected in October which prompted the members of the city council to be tested. Turner said that the council members all tested negative. He commented that the council

hopes that the payment will provide some relief for employees.

“We just hope that any little thing that we can help them out in these tough times,” he said. “I wish we could do more right now but we wanted to do that to help some and we did a one-time payment of $250.”

Turner added that the date for the grand opening and ribbon cutting of the Buc-ee’s location is still slated for Monday, Jan. 25. A time for the opening has not been set yet.

The last item was the payables and expenditures for the city, which passed unanimously. No one spoke during the public comments portion.

A Jan. 18 meeting of the council will not take place as it will be Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

health care workers and nursing home residents who are most at-risk of contracting COVID-19. As the vaccine uptake for this category is satisfied, ADPH is now encouraging sites to vaccinate persons in the 75-plus age group and those in the law enforcement and firefighter vocations in order to prevent any loss of vaccine due to cold chain storage requirements.

“We recognize that demand for vaccine exceeds supply,” said State Health Officer Dr. Scott Harris. “While there is still an insufficient amount of the vaccine supply, we want to maximize our resources to help protect Alabamians at high risk. County health departments are working with their local points of distribution to assess what their vaccination reach has been. Decisions about the next groups to

vaccinate are made at the community level with community engagement. If the very highrisk population has been covered adequately, providers can then begin vaccinating people in the other priority groups.”

Nearly 350,000 people in the state of Alabama would qualify for a vaccine at 75 years old and older.

To schedule an appointment for the free COVID-19 vaccination at a county health department, individuals may call the ADPH toll-free phone number at 1-855-566-5333.

Telephone calls are answered from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. seven days a week. Vaccination locations can be viewed at this link, https://go.usa.gov/ xARKp and additional specific information, such as what to bring and what to wear, will be provided when appointments are made.

If wanting to be vaccinated at sites other than a county health department, such as a private provider, individuals should contact those sites directly. For information about COVID-19 vaccine, visit https://go.usa.gov/xARKE.

From front page

Center Point Crime From front page

Sheriff Mark Pettway said the biggest change was seen in the Center Point community. Homicides in the Center Point area, including the cities of Clay and Pinson and unincorporated areas of eastern Jefferson County, were down 43% in 2020.

“Overall violent crime was down about 27%”, said Pettway. “We owe a great deal of this improvement to our citizens. They continue to be engaged and keep us aware of what is happening.”

In 2019, the sheriff’s office investigated 14 murders in the Center Point area. In 2020, there were eight homicides investigated.

There was an increase in the Bessemer area and the sheriff said his office is working to curb crime there. Still, the number of violent crimes

Boy Saves Sister From front page

According to a post from the Moody Police Department, the 9-year-old son of a Moody resident saved his 5-year-old sister during an armed robbery attempt on Thursday. Police say the young boy, who was sitting in the back seat of his mother’s car, sprang into action when a man attempted to steal the family’s car at a gas station in the area of U.S. Hwy 411 and I-20.

The action took place while the Moody woman was pumping gas on Thursday.

“As she stood outside her vehicle, 18-year-old Kendarian Toran, of Jackson, Miss.,

TRUSSVILLE — The Trussville City Council met on Tuesday, Jan. 12, 2021, and approved a draft of an agreement with the school system on facility usage.

The reciprocal use agreement with Trussville City Schools gives Mayor Buddy Choat the directive to oversee the implementation of and compliance with the agreement.

The agreement states that schools have priority use of school facilities and the city has priority use of city facilities. However, the two entities would agree to “memorialize their longstanding informal reciprocal use agreement in writing to facilitate better understanding of each party’s role in the continued relationship between the parties and to organize, to promote, and to conduct programs and activities that further the education, health and general welfare of the community,” as part of the agreement.

Discussions of a formal agreement came about after representatives for the Trussville Lacrosse teams were denied usage of Husky Field.

According to the school system’s website, Hewitt-Trussville Stadium is a state-of-the-art, $14.6 million facility. Husky Field has artificial turf, which cost about $400,000. Those asking for use of the stadium said since the city of Trussville spent thousands of taxpayer dollars to build the stadium,

the city should have the right to allow teams in the city to use it. However, it was unclear who makes decisions concerning the use of Husky Field because there was no written agreement on the matter, according to city leaders.

City Attorney Rick Stotser said the stadium is considered a school facility.

The agreement will go to the Trussville City School Board for approval. The draft can be viewed below.

The council also passed a proclamation recognizing School Board Member Recognition Month. Four board members, Mark Sims, Steve Ward, Stan Garrett, and Kim DeShazo were in attendance at the council meeting, along with Superintendent Dr. Pattie Neill.

The proclamation states that the council “appreciates the vital role played by those individuals who, as local school board members, establish policies to ensure the efficient, effective school system.”

In other business, Taylor announced the city will renew its stormwater ordinance in compliance with ADEM’s Clean Water Act. The ordinance must be approved every year in order for the city’s permit to be renewed.

Several rezoning requests were approved after coming to the council recommended by the city’s Planning and Zoning Committee. Those properties include: • 3652 Sutton Avenue • 6124 Advent Circle • 6624 Limbaugh Loop Finally, a resolution to

enter into a jail contract agreement with the city of Irondale was approved unanimously. During the city council workshop on Thursday, Jan. 7, 2021, Police Chief Eric Rush said Irondale’s jail is no longer able to accommodate inmates because of the conditions of the building. Irondale will pay Trussville $32 per day, per inmate to use the jail.

Other items approved as part of the consent agenda are listed below can be viewed online at www.TrussvilleTribune.com.

was more in the Center Point area than in Bessemer. The grand total in the Center Point area was 1,797 while the Bessemer area, which includes Fairfield, had a grand total of 1,567 violent crimes reported.

“By continuing to bridge the gap between the Sheriff’s Office and the citizens, we

will achieve that goal”, added Sheriff Pettway.

Crimes calculated included arson, assault, burglary, murder, rape, robbery, theft, unlawful breaking and entering of vehicles and vehicle theft. The chart below shows the numbers provided by the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office.

exited a maroon Chevy SUV, which had been parked at the pumps opposite the victim,” read the Moody PD post. “He then jumped into the driver’s seat of her vehicle. When the victim attempted to stop him, he pointed a gun at her. As this was happening, her 9-yearold son in what can only be described as an incredible act of bravery and composure, exited the rear driver’s side of the vehicle and ran around to the passenger side rear.

He then opened the door and pulled his 5-year-old sister from the vehicle and to safety.”

Authorities say Toran and 23-year-old Eric White, also of Jackson, Miss., have both been taken into custody after a brief vehicle pursuit by the

Rankin County Sheriff’s Office. Both suspects will be facing multiple felony charges, including armed robbery and vehicle theft.

“In addition to the incredible bravery of a little boy and his mother, a joint effort by law enforcement agencies spread out between Moody and Jackson, Miss. and the use of the FLOCK camera system and other vehicle tag readers led to the rapid location of the suspects as they fled back into Mississippi,” read the Moody PD Facebook post.

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Trussville City Council approves facility use agreement with TCS, gives Irondale greenlight to use jail

By Erica Thomas, managing editor

Page 3

Local / Region

Vaccine And first responders, including law enforcement and firefighters, statewide by appointment only effective Jan. 18.

Appointments at locations throughout the state are made first come, first serve, according to a release from ADPH. “I appreciate the swift work of ADPH to establish a system to efficiently provide our limited resources of vaccine to as many Alabamians as possible,” Gov. Ivey said.

“We have previously worked to provide vaccines to our health care workers who are on the front lines of the pandemic, and now, are diligently working to expand access to our seniors, law enforcement officers and various members of our first responders. It is critical for everyone to remain patient; demand is high, and supply is low. ADPH and their partners are working around the clock to assist as many people as they can.”

Alabama continues to vaccinate more than 326,000

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Trussville family raising money for diabetic alert dog for 11-month-old son

By Erica Thomas, managing editor

TRUSSVILLE — A Trussville family is asking for the community’s help after an 11-month-old boy was diagnosed with type I diabetes.

Ashley and Cliff Murphy were shocked to find out about the illness when they took their son Myles to the emergency room after realizing something was wrong.

Ashley Murphy said her son was experiencing labored breathing but when they got to the hospital, his oxygen levels were fine. After more tests, it was discovered the child was in severe diabetic ketoacidosis.

“We were shocked since it is rare at his age,” said Ashley Murphy. “Prior to his diagnosis, I had no idea just how serious type I diabetes is.”

Myles was put into PICU until he stabilized. There was added stress to the hospital stay because of COVID restrictions but Ashley Murphy said the family powered through until they were able to return home.

Myles is the youngest of five children. He will turn one on Jan. 30.

The family is now in the process of learning about type I diabetes and ways they can help Myles.

Since the child is unable to communicate how he feels, the Murphy’s want to get a diabetic alert dog (DAD).

“We know this could save

his life one day, as well as help us manage his diabetes,” Murphy said.

They turned to Tattle Tail Scent Dogs, in Utah. The company, which was started by a dog trainer who has diabetes herself, has positive reviews and a stellar reputation. Murphy said she had a good feeling about the company.

The dogs are trained to sense when a person’s blood glucose levels are too low or too high.

“Dogs have such a higher level to smell than we do,” said Kristi Urban, with Tattle Tail Scent Dogs. “When your blood sugars change, your body gives off an odor and the dogs can smell it.”

When it comes to Myles’ young age, Urban said a dog is a great way to help manage his diabetes.

“Our company is one company that does not have an age limit for dogs,” Urban said. “We train them to alert to the parents. As the kids get older and more responsible, we teach them to alert the parent and the child. Then, when they are teenagers, we teach them to alert the teen and so on.”

However, diabetic alert dogs are expensive. They can cost up to $30,000 and have

ongoing expenses. So, the Murphy family has set up a GoFundMe account and is asking for donations to help with this life-saving measure.

“We are hopeful our local community would like to support us with donations, shares, and prayers as we take this big step for Myles and our family,” Murphy added.

The family is currently on a waiting list and hopes to get the new dog by the end of summer or by early fall.

Kristi Urban with Tattle Tail Scent Dogs.

You can help the Murphy family by donating to the GoFundMe account. There is a link in this story at www.

TrussvilleTribune.com. The family is also accepting donations via Venmo @DiabeticAlertDog4Myles.

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January 13 - 19, 2021

Pinson Parade From front page

Councilor Dawn Tanner announced a tentative date for a parade to honor the 2020 Pinson Valley High School football team for winning the 6A State Championship game. The parade is tentatively scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 16, 2021, at 10:30 a.m.

“We will meet at Winn-Dixie at 10 o’clock, the parade will start at 10:30,” she said. “This will be for the varsity football team, the cheerleaders and the band. We’re going to do it different this year. Instead of going to Bicentennial (Park), we’re going to go back to the stadium and the mayor and council will present the declaration we did last week.”

At the end of the parade, the team and coaches will be presented with copies of Resolution 20-62, which was passed on Dec. 29, 2020. The resolution states “the 2020 Pinson Valley High School football team had another exceptional season, concluding with the Alabama 6A State Football Championship” and “this team represented Pinson Valley High School, the City of Pinson, and all of Jefferson County with superior skills and in a sportsmanlike manner.”

Additionally, Tanner offered a motion to approve the purchase of championship shirts for the PVHS football team, coaches, support personnel, school administrators, band and cheerleaders, for the amount of $4,605.50. The motion passed unanimously.

“We’re a city of champions, so we might as well show it,” Tanner said.

During Thursday’s meeting, the council also approved funds for the resurfacing of the PVHS baseball and softball fields, by Game Day Athletic Surfaces. The cost to resurface the baseball field will be $6,000.

“We asked the city, Mayor Cochran, … I’ve kind of been bugging him, been in his ear for a while for my guys about our field,” Head Coach John Gluschick said. “It’s been unkept for a while – I guess since COVID hit last year – and it’s kind of slipped and faded away, but we want to get it looking nice again. The plan is, they are going to come in, Game Day Athletics, they’re

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going to put 48 tons of Turface mix on the infield dirt. They are going to laser it and make sure everything is nice and level, and ultimately, when that’s all finished, it’s going to be a nice-looking product, infield-wise. Probably the most important thing is going to be safety because everything is going to be level.”

Mayor Joe Cochran said that the money will come out of the city’s school allocation fund, which currently has $67,000.

“We appreciate it a lot because the field was in bad shape when everything went down,” PVHS baseball player Douglas Tews said. “We could get out there and try to work things up, but we just didn’t have enough help, we didn’t have the funds, so it means a lot to us.”

The resurfacing of the softball field will cost $3,650, but the city voted to allocate a total of $4,763.62 to the softball team to cover the expense of additional needs.

“Softball is coming to us today for assistance, as well, and part of it is the same kind of stuff, exactly like what baseball is getting, but their field is much smaller and requires a lot less surface,” Cochran said. “So, the expense of that is $3,650, and then there were some equipment add-ins on that too, which added up to a total of $4,763.62.”

Cochran informed the council that the city received a COVID-relief reimbursement check from the federal government’s Cares Act on Jan. 6.

“The Cares Act money was made available by the federal government and, in Jefferson County, administered by the Jefferson County Commission for municipalities in Jefferson County with the exception of Hoover and Birmingham – perhaps there were another one or two – but overall, doing most of the hard work for all of us,” Cochran said. “We submit what we believe is money that could be refunded based on the criteria they laid out.

“When it’s all said and done, there’s a certain number of dollars and cents placed in that fund with our name on it, but we had to back into that fund.

“That being said, it was something we worked very diligently with upon coming into office. We had about a week remaining on our time

to qualify. We spent that week, most of it, really working hard to figure out where we could find those funds. There were some previously sought before my arrival, but since then, we added a lot more to it.”

The city submitted for funds in the range of $333,000+, and received the full amount. The city plans to put these funds into a savings account for the period of a year.

“When (Mayor Cochran) got here, he had about a week and went with both feet running,” Tanner said. “Prior to his arrival of coming into office, we had only turned in, we only had receipts for about $25,000. So, that’s a huge difference from that to $333,000.

So, kudos to the mayor for making phone calls, finding out what we could file claim on, and thanks to Anjelea May for getting the paperwork done. … I want to give credit where it’s due that the mayor did a really good job on trying to find money that we could request.”

In other city business, the council attended to the following: • Passed Ordinance 2021-1, changing pre-council time from 6:30 p.m. to 6:15 p.m.

• Passed a motion to approve attendance of training conferences for the mayor, council and clerks • Passed a motion to authorize the purchase of Christmas pole decorations • Passed a motion to approve Bicentennial Park playground maintenance • Passed motion to purchase 2012 Ford Expedition from E9-1-1, in the amount of $8,500 • First reading of updated City of Pinson Employee Manual • First reading for Bicentennial Park picnic table quotes • First reading for PYSC bleachers quotes • Discussion to move Parks & Recreation offices to city hall • Discussion concerning refinancing bonds held by the city of Pinson to lower interest and save money The next meeting of the Pinson City Council will be Thursday, Jan. 21, 2021.

Pre-council will begin at 6:15 p.m. and the council meeting will begin at 7 p.m.

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The Trussville Tribune

January 13 - 19, 2021

Page 5

JSU nearing completion of new building replacing facility destroyed by tornado

From The Tribune staff reports

JACKSONVILLE, Ala. — Jacksonville State University announced it expects a new Merrill Hall to open in August 2021. The original building was destroyed by a tornado on March 19, 2018, when an EF-3 tornado struck the campus.

The state-of-the-art facility is a modern version of the 48-year-old building that was destroyed. It will include a 300-seat auditorium, a three-story atrium and common space, 12 academic classrooms, a finance lab, a Career Development Center, job interview rooms, team

Trussville Crime From front page

We are battling with the overwhelming amount of illegal drugs that are in our society. Abusing drugs is a personal choice until it becomes a life-altering addiction.”

Rush said of all the overdose calls in the city of Trussville, three of them ended in death. The most common drugs seen in the area have been methamphetamine, fentanyl, cocaine, hydrocodone and her-

Architectural Renderings (Courtesy of Davis Architects)

working areas and offices, including a Dean’s suite.

The 105,000 square-feet building will serve as home to the JSU School of Business and Industry.

Construction is on schedule and has reached the half-

way point, according to the university.

“We’re very excited about moving into the new building this summer,” said Dean Steven McClung. “We believe it will give our students access to the latest technology and

oin, or a combination of those.

Noise complaints also increased from 15 calls in 2019 to 28 calls in 2020. Again, Rush pointed to the pandemic as a possible reason for the increase.

“People were at home more and more nuisance noises were being created,” Rush said. “Plus more people were at home to call and report a problem.”

Despite concerns from experts on COVID-19 causing an increase in domestic-related cases, the city of Trussville had a lower amount of domestic calls in 2020. According to

the annual report, there was a 5% decrease in domestic dispute calls and a 9% decrease in domestic violence calls.

In 2020, the Trussville Police Department had the help of Flock Safety. The 19 license plate readers throughout the city led to the recovery of 26 stolen vehicles. Furthermore, detectives were able to use the technology as an investigative tool, Rush said.

The entire annual report from the Trussville Police Department can be read in this story at www.TrussvilleTribune.com.

Photos of the Construction Site on Jan. 6 (courtesy of Matt Reynolds, JSU)

facilities, providing an education that will make them extremely competitive in their fields. The facility will benefit all of our students in Applied Engineering, Business and Communication.”

Opened in 1970, Merrill

Hall was named in honor of Rep. Hugh D. Merrill of Anniston, who was instrumental in helping change the status of JSU from a teachers’ college to a state college and ultimately to a respected university. He also served as

Springville Council From front page

The sales tax exemption will apply to specific items commonly needed during severe weather. The Springville City Council approved a resolution to participate in the sales tax holiday at the regular council meeting on Monday night, January 4.

“Not only during these most difficult days but anytime taxpayers can keep more of their hard-earned income is appreciated,” said Springville Mayor Dave Thomas.

The tax holiday is part of an ongoing statewide initiative that began in 2012 exempting many items, priced under $60, from state sales and usage taxes. Local governments can choose to participate, or not, by eliminating local sales taxes during those days. Springville will not charge a local or state sales tax for approved purchases.

The exemption applies to

a wide variety of items under the price cap according to the Alabama Department of Revenue website. Items such as weather radios, smoke detectors, ice packs, flashlights, first aid kits and some types of batteries are exempt from sales taxes as long as they are priced under the $60 limit.

The exemption also applies to the purchase of portable generators priced below $1000.

“I encourage everyone to make the most of this opportunity,” said Mayor Thomas.

The council also approved funds for repairs to one of the city’s fire engines. Fire Chief Richard Harvey requested funds for engine repairs to one of the trucks. He brought the request to the meeting because previous expenditures

president pro tempore of the JSU Board of Trustees for 12 years, from 1968 to 1980.

The JSU School of Business and Industry houses the departments of Applied Engineering, Communication, Management and Marketing, and Finance, Economics and Accounting. It is also home to the Small Business Development Center, the Center for Economic Development and the Center for Economic Education. The school is accredited by AACSB International and offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees, including a top-ranked online MBA. For more information about the school, visit http://www.jsu. edu/business/index.html.

on the department’s vehicles have exceeded the $15,000 budgeted for repairs.

Chief Harvey said he expects to do as much of the engine work as possible inhouse. He also expressed a need to increase repair allocations in the upcoming city budget until the city can purchase newer trucks.

Mayor Thomas plans to present a budget for review by mid-January for discussion at the final regular meeting of the month. The council will meet for a work session and the last regular session of the month on January 25.

Due to ongoing safety precautions surrounding the recent spike in coronavirus cases across Alabama, city offices remain closed to walk-in traffic. 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 continue to meet virtually through the end of January.

Page 6

The Trussville Tribune

E d u c at i o n

City of Trussville now accepting school board applications

p.m. at the school system’s central office.

Applications will be accepted through January and the city has put into place a new process for consideration of interested parties.

A committee of five, which consists of two city council members (BOE Liaison Lisa Bright and another member the council will choose), Mayor Buddy Choat, City HR Director Mandy Dixon, and one sitting school

board member, will review applications.

The committee will interview finalists and the committee’s recommendations will be presented to the city council. At that time, the council may choose to meet with finalists.

The council plans to announce the next school board member at a meeting in March so they will have time to transition into the position.

The city has streamlined the process for applying for boards and committees online. You can apply for the school board position and other board openings in the city, by clicking on the link in this story on www.TrussvilleTribune.com.

space for Trussville City Schools’ (TCS) Central Office team, which currently works in three separate buildings throughout the city.

Superintendent Dr. Pattie Neill thanked school board members, employees, community members and elected officials who made the project possible.

“We’re very excited to work with all central services under one roof and work in a facility that reflects Trussville’s excellence as one of the top five school systems in the state,” said Neill. “This will be what we need to look like as an example.”

Rep. Danny Garrett, Trussville Mayor Buddy Cho-

at and School Board President Kathy Brown were among those who joined Neill at the podium for the groundbreaking ceremony. You can watch the full groundbreaking ceremony below.

In November, Blalock Building Company was awarded the bid to construct the new building. Construction of the office building will take approximately one year to complete.

From The Tribune staff reports

TRUSSVILLE — The city of Trussville is accepting applications for the Trussville City Schools Board of Education.

A position on the board will become available in May 2021, with member Stan Garret’s term expiring. The city council is tasked with selecting the next member.

The school board is a separately incorporated board whose primary responsibility is oversight of the public school system and its finances and policy. Board members serve a five-year term and the board meets on the third Monday of each month at 6

TCS Groundbreaking From front page

From The Tribune staff reports

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

School and city leaders and some city officials were in attendance. The new building will be located on Highway 11, across from Winn Dixie.

The two-story building will provide a centralized

January 13 - 19, 2021

Clay Elementary From front page

“Yeah, we could’ve done superheroes or something but we wanted it to be child-friendly. It shows peace and fun.”

Speech Pathologist teacher Bethany Porter came in on her day off to help Finkley paint many of the characters.

She said she thought the mural was a great idea.

“This is just an honor to be able to participate,” said Porter. “I’m retiring soon and this allows me to keep a piece of me here for a little while.”

Porter said with all of the things children are dealing with outside of school, it is nice to see something that will bring smiles to their faces.

“I just know they are going to love it,” said Porter.

“It’s just a different world.

There’s peace and happiness and fun.”

Even Art Teacher Jessica Davis was impressed.

“This is so cool,” said Davis. “I think the best part about it is all of the teachers and staff have participated and some students will get to

Clay Elementary Principal Dr. Jacqnaii Finkley and Speech Pathologist Bethany Porter stand in front of Peanuts-themed mural

take part in it when they come back.”

When the children come back to school, the principal said he plans to allow them to make their own snowflakes on the wall. Davis said the art will serve as a way for students to express themselves.

“It’s such a good way to tackle so many different

things,” Davis said. “It gives them another outlet, especially with all of the things going on right now you know, the kids need an outlet.”

The principal said the mural is also a way to teach the students how to create colors and complete artwork, so there is also an educational aspect to the project.

Several locals named to Chancellor’s List at Troy From The Tribune staff reports

TROY — Several local scholars have been rec-

ognized for their academic achievements.

Troy University recently announced students who have been named to the Chancellor’s List for the fall semester and Term 2 of the 2020-21 academic year. And 10 local students are listed.

According to the school, full-time undergraduate stu-

and online.

Area students on the list include: • Nikole Copeland of Trussville, AL • Caroline Loyek of Pinson, AL • Elijah Harville of Pinson, AL • Matthew Hicks of Pinson, AL

dents who are registered for at least 12 semester hours and who earn a grade point average of 4.0 qualify for the honor. The fall semester includes students at the Troy campus. Term 2 includes students at Troy’s campuses in Dothan, Phenix City and Montgomery, along with locations outside of Alabama

• Andi Lancaster of Pinson, AL • Jared Hester of Trussville, AL • Jacob Nardi of Trussville, AL • Camryn Peeples of Trussville, AL • Anna Segars of Trussville, AL • Holley Lisenba of Trussville, AL

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January 13 - 19, 2021

The Trussville Tribune

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

ety 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

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 Cu-

linary 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 downhome 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 18day 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!

in October of 2019, after residents behind Cahaba Elementary School voiced concerns at a city council meeting. After hearing the concerns, the city’s Public Safety Committee began discussing ways to ensure the safety of students. Police Chief Eric Rush said after a traffic study, it was determined that flashing lights could provide more awareness about speeding during times students are coming and going.

“We’ve been trying to get the school zone lights and the pedestrian signals for over a year,” Rush said. “Now it is obvious that you need to lower your speed and that you’re in a school zone.”

Trussville City Schools was able to secure $110,000 in funding for 11 solar-powered school zone signs. Flashers come on each school morning and afternoon when the speed limits in school zones are re-

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School Crossing From front page

By Erica Thomas, managing editor

TRUSSVILLE — New school zone lights are up and running around schools in Trussville, after over a year of studies and planning.

The discussion first began

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duced for the safety of students and drivers. The signs also show the driver’s speed and alert them to “slow down” if they are speeding.

“I think the end result will be that the school zones will be safer and that people will slow down and pay more attention,” Rush added.

The school zone signs were installed and were in operation for the first time on the morning of Wednesday, Jan. 6, 2021.

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Councilman Alan Taylor said the Public Safety Committee also recommended new and improved signage at pedestrian crosswalks around the mall area of Trussville.

“For some reason, people think you are supposed to stop at every single one of the intersections with the signage that is currently there, and other people just ignore them,” said Taylor. “So, we brought it up at Public Safety to say we had

experienced an issue.”

Taylor said he hopes the new signs also add protection for pedestrians at night.

“Especially at night, you will be able to see there is someone there,” Taylor said.

The council approved $61,000 in funding for 10 new pedestrian crosswalk lights off North Chalkville Road from Magnolia Street to Oak Street.

Those signs are in the process of being installed.

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The Trussville Tribune

Page 8

Kathleen J. Hightower

O b i t u a ry

20, 1948 ~ january 7, 2021 (age 72) july

Kathleen J. Hightower, 72, of Trussville, Alabama died Wednesday January 7, 2021 surrounded by her loved ones. She was preceded in death by her parents, Dr. William and Louise Jenkins of Sarasota, Florida and her brother William Jenkins, Jr. of Collettsville, North Carolina. Survivors include, her children Angie Nalley (Eddy), Catie Hightower, Wendie Loizzi ( John), Jessica Sutherland (Mark) and eight grandchildren; brother, Carey Jenkins (Sue) and her sister Susan B. Jenkins. Kathy graduated from MUSC in 1970 then moved to Birmingham, Alabama. Over the next twenty years she worked while raising her four daughters.

She then moved back to South Carolina and worked full-time at Beaufort Memorial until 2015 when she was diagnosed with lung cancer. After fighting for two years she moved to Trussville to be closer to family. Her faith and family kept her strong. She will be loved and missed by all who knew her. In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to: Huntington's Disease Society of America 505 Eighth Avenue Suite 902 New York, NY 10018 HDSAinfo@Hdsa.org.

Joy Joan Jennings Thompson january

25, 1931 ~ january 5, 2021 (age 89)

Joy Joan Jennings Thompson, age 89, was born on January 25, 1931, the 4th in a family of 6 girls, to the late William Frederick Howell Jennings and Mittie Tomlinson Jennings. She passed away on January 5, 2021. She was a graduate of Woodlawn High School. She married the love of her life, Henry Helms Thompson on Saturday, February 3, 1951, at her home on 6911 Higdon Road, Birmingham, AL. She is survived by her 3 daughters, her 7 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, and 2 sisters.

Sheila Keith Vann january

(age 72)

Yvonne Iris James february

(age 70)

28, 1950 ~ january 3, 2021

Yvonne Iris James went to be with the Lord on January 3, 2021 at the age of 70. She was born to Joseph and Iris Webster on February 28, 1950 in North Woolich, East London, England. She was preceded in death by her Father, Mother, daughter Carina Langdon, and grandson Dalen Langdon. She went to Roman RD. Primary School in East Ham, London and later to St. Martins Girls School in Brentwood, England and earned a Certificate in Biblical Counseling from Birmingham Theological Seminary, Birmingham, Alabama in 2012. Mark 12:2931 is known as “the Greatest Commandment” this passage was the epitome of Yvonne’s life. To love God with her entire being and to love her neighbor. Yvonne possessed a selfless heart for serving others, her passionate love and commitment to her family, her 22 years as a therapeutic foster parent, her fervent love for the Birmingham Theological Seminary Prison Ministry at Bibb County Correctional Facility, the recidivism program Jumpstart Al. and the ministry at Africa Reformation Theological Seminary in Uganda. Yvonne was a member of the hospitality team at Household of Faith Church, PCA. Her devotion to perfection and beauty was evident in the flower displays/arrangements she made and in all of her work for the church. Yvonne built a home, literally and figuratively, with a foundation of love, God gifted her with an abundance of natural skills and abilities. she was Mum, Nanny, Nan, Miss Yvonne, Mama and JaJa to hundreds of people all over America and the world. She made her home open to all and all who came felt 100% at home. God designed Yvonne to serve, she wanted nothing of herself but only to bring love and joy to others. I was beyond blessed, God gave me the perfect helpmate, 29 years of marriage and 34 years of friendship. You are loved and missed dearly but you will live forever in our hearts and mind. She is survived by husband, Thaddeus J. James Jr., children David Langdon (Shay), LaTangala James, Kameka James Marshall (Ron), Stephen Langdon (Carrie Armstrong), Brandon James (Nicole Fraleigh), grandchildren, Julie Langdon, Jhiron Marshall, Tristan Hatcher, Dalton Hatcher, Sarah Langdon, Keturah Crump, Wesleigh Washington, Jadah Marshall, Princess Dixon, Trinity Crump, Braedon Hatcher, Jazzmyn Crump, Connor Langdon, Kyrie Langdon and great grands, Chananiy Crump, Ryikk Brown, numerous foster children and her dear friend Leigh Jager. Her siblings in England Malcolm Webster (Sheila) and Sharon Pridmore, nephews Simon Webster, Andrew Webster (Kirsty), Adam Pridmore (Pippa) and Jake Pridmore. Great nieces Isabelle and Molly Webster and Florence Pridmore. Along with many English and Scottish cousins. In lieu of flowers please feel free to make donations to Jumpstart Alabama.

17, 1948 ~ january 4, 2021

Sheila Keith Vann, age 72 of Pinson, AL passed away on January 4, 2021. Shelia was member of Robinwood Baptist Church for 42 years. She was manager for the bakery department at Winn-Dixie in Clay, AL before retiring. She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 32 years, Tommy Vann. Sheila is survived by her daughter, Wendi Farley (Walter); sons, Ray Keith (Amanda) and J.R. Keith (Melissa); step-daughter, Dana Hollingswoth (Michael); step-son, Tommy Vann, Jr.; eighteen grandchildren and eight great grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews.

Juanita P. Blue august

January 13 - 19, 2021

3, 1941 ~ january 4, 2021 (age 79)

Juanita P. Blue born on August 3, 1931 went to be with her Lord and Savior Monday, January 4, 2021.

She is preceded in death by her loving husband Ralph G. Blue, her parents Harvey and Oda B Poole, and her brother Harvey Poole Jr. Juanita is survived by her daughters Cindy Farmer (Ed), Carol Cargile; grandchildren Matt Grill (Courtney), Jenny Strickland (Lee); great-grandchildren Savannah Strickland Jennings (Jeremiah), Stuart Strickland, Sarah Strickland, Cate Grill, Molly Grill, Jake Grill; nephews Phil and Dennis Gilmer.

William J, Layton

18, 1941 ~ january 7, 2021 (age 79)

april

William Joseph Layton - (Billy Joe) Age 79 passed away on January 7, 2021 after complications from Covid. He was a proud member of Gardendale First Baptist Church. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend to anyone he met. He was an avid street rodder and outdoorsman. He took great pride in his family and 62 years of marriage to his wife Carolyn. He is preceded in death by his parents, Jodie and Eula Bell Layton and son, Jeff Layton. He is survived by wife, Carolyn Layton; daughters Pam Layton (Sherry), Michelle Roberson (Jess) and son, Tony Layton (Deborah). Grandchildren; Maria Beasley, Brooke Messina (Chad), Bentley Grace Layton, J.P. Roberson and five great grandchildren. Brothers; Jimmy Layton (Bobbie), Richard Layton (Loretta), Wallace Layton (Joann), Donald Layton (Debbie), sister Ann Hawkins and numerous nieces and nephews. Funeral service will be held Wednesday, January 13, 2021 at Jefferson Memorial in Trussville at 12pm with visitation at 11am and graveside following.

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sports

Keeping Co Community 1st Always

McKinstry named ASWA’s Back of the Year in Class 6A

By Erik Harris, sports editor

PINSON — The postseason honors continue to roll in for the Class 6A state champion Pinson Valley Indians.

On Tuesday night, the Alabama Sports Writers Association released its Back and Lineman of the Year awards in each classification, and Pinson Valley was on the list.

BIRMINGHAM — The No. 3-ranked Pinson Valley boys basketball team capped off a productive week last Saturday night in Birmingham.

Behind a balanced offensive attack, the Indians rallied back in the fourth quarter to knock off Class 5A No. 1 Ramsay 58-54, completing a 3-0 week that also included two Class 6A, Area 12 victories over Mortimer Jordan and Clay-Chalkville.

Pinson Valley (10-2, 2-0) trailed for the opening three quarters on Saturday, but weathered the storm thanks to five players reaching double figures in scoring. Senior Joshua Williams led the visitors with 11 points and seven assists. Fellow senior JoJo James notched a double-double with 10 points and as many boards.

James delivered throughout the week, slashing his way to 19 points on Tuesday at Mortimer Jordan and matched that at home on Thursday night against rival Clay-Chalkville. His Indians won those area contests 55-23 and 61-39, respectively.

He and Williams had plenty of help against the Rams.

Freshman guard Caleb White

Clay-Chalkville girls handle Pinson in area play

By Erik Harris, sports editor

PINSON — The ClayChalkville girls basketball team opened up Class 6A, Area 12 play with a win last Thursday night in Mike Dutton Gymnasium.

Cheyenne Pearson led the way with 10 points, the Cougars shot 28 free throws and pulled away in the second half for a 49-23 road victory over Pinson Valley.

See GIRLS HOOPS, Page 10

Moody vs. St. Clair County High School at Moody Friday, Jan. 15

Springville vs. Leeds High School at Springville Tuesday, Jan. 19

January 13 - 19, 2021

No. 3 Pinson Valley wraps up big week with win over No. 1 Ramsay

By Erik Harris, sports editor

See BACK OF THE YEAR, Page 10

Center Point vs. Pinson Valley High School at Center Point Friday, Jan. 15

The Trussville Tribune

Pinson Valley seniors Joshua Williams (5) and JoJo James (4) look on during a home game against Clay-Chalkville last Thursday. Photo by Erik Harris

(three assists), sophomore guard Terry Coner (three assists) and senior wing Moe

Calloway (six rebounds) each came through with 10 points on Saturday.

Pinson Valley earned its second Area 12 victory last Thursday at home. Crosstown

rival Clay-Chalkville (9-4, 0-1) made the short trip over, as the Indians scored 37 second-half points en route to a 61-39 victory in Mike Dutton Gymnasium.

Pinson Valley saw four players score in double figures, including to James (19), Coner (16), Williams (13) and Calloway (10). Calloway, a senior wing, also secured 10 boards to complete the double-double.

The visiting Cougars defended well in the first half, leading 12-10 through the first eight minutes and later going to the break down 2418. However, they struggled to defend the perimeter down the home stretch while Pinson Valley buried six second-half triples to stretch things out of reach.

James gave the Tribe its first advantage at 6-5 midway through the first with his first of four 3-point makes. His final triple came with 5:25 remaining in the fourth quarter when Williams drove inside and kicked it to the right wing for a 47-29 cushion.

Williams dished out another assist to Calloway moments later, and the senior flushed it home with a powerful dunk for a 50-33 edge.

For Clay-Chalkville, Jonathan Harris went home with 11 points in the loss.

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The Trussville Tribune

Page 10

No. 1 Alabama wins national title 52-24 over No. 3 Ohio St

By The Associated Press

MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. (AP) — DeVonta Smith was uncoverable, Najee Harris unstoppable and Mac Jones impeccable. With a performance that was both surgical and explosive, No. 1 Alabama won the College Football Playoff national championship game 52-24 against No. 3 Ohio State on Monday night.

The final game of a college football season in a pandemic, a season that was uncertain to be played in the summer and filled with disruptions in the fall, ended in the most predictable fashion: Alabama (13-0) as national champion for the sixth time in the last 12 years under coach Nick Saban.

game they needed to be running at top speed, facing one of great offenses in recent history, they sputtered too much. Ohio State has never allowed more points in a bowl game.

Fans can debate which team in the Saban dynasty is best, but none will be more memorable than this group.

The Tide finished perfect during a season that could not have been further from it as COVID-19 forced teams into quarantines and endless testing and uncertainty every single week with games played in mostly empty stadiums.

Only about 15,000 fans were at Hard Rock Stadium, capacity 65,326, to see the last magnificent performance of Smith's college career.

Alabama quarterback Mac Jones steps into a throw during the CFP National Championship Game on Monday night in Miami, Fla. Photo from Alabama Football Twitter account

For Saban, it was career title No. 7 overall, breaking a tie with Alabama great Paul “Bear” Bryant for the most by a major college coach.

Ohio State (7-1) just couldn't keep up. Justin Fields, playing what might be his last game before heading to the NFL, passed for 194 yards and a touchdown. Whether Fields was 100% after taking a brutal hit to the side during his brilliant semifinal performance against Clemson was hard to know for sure.

On the Buckeyes' first drive, they lost star running back Trey Sermon to an injury and in a

The Heisman Trophy winner had catches for 12 catches for 215 yards and three touchdowns, all in the first half as the Crimson Tide bolted out to a 35-17 lead.

Using an array of motions and misdirections, outgoing offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian had Ohio State heads spinning trying to track down Smith.

Sometimes it was simpler than that. On Smith's third touchdown, he lined up in the slot, the closest to the line of three receivers on the left side.

Smith cut quickly to the middle of the field and suddenly

was matched up against a linebacker, whom he left in the dust for a 42-yard score with 41 seconds left in the second quarter.

Smith, who finished his freshman season by catching the 2017 national championship winning touchdown pass from Tua Tagovailoa, ended his Alabama career as the leading career receiver in Southeastern Conference history.

He was the offensive player of Monday night's game.

As for Sarkisian, he is on his way to Texas as the head coach. Longhorns fans had to have liked what they saw from their new playcaller. If only he could bring Smith and his fellow Heisman contenders to Austin.

Jones, who finished third in the Heisman voting, was 36 for 45 for a CFP championship-record 464 yards and five touchdowns, operating behind a line that had him rarely feeling rushed. Harris had 158 yards from scrimmage on 29 touches, scoring three times to give him an SEC record 30 touchdowns this season.

Smith hardly played in the second half, leaving with what an injury. He returned to the sideline in the fourth quarter with his left hand wrapped to the wrist, two fingers taped together, and wearing a Heisman mask.

Alabama hardly missed him and cracked 50 early in the fourth quarter when Harris went in untouched from a yard out.

Smith and Harris surprised some by returning to college after last season for their senior years.

Boy, did it turn out to be worthwhile. Along with Jones, another member of that 2017 recruiting class, they will leave Alabama as the leaders of a team that managed to make an arduous march from through the pandemic look easy.

Back Of The Year From page 9

Indian senior and Alabama signee Ga’Quincy McKinstry has been named

January 13 - 19, 2021 Fort in Tuscaloosa. On that night, he reeled in five receptions for 89 yards, including the 52-yard go-ahead score in the fourth quarter.

McKinstry, the top senior prospect in the state, plans to enroll early at Alabama,

• 3A: Jett Smith, LB, Mobile Christian • 2A: Caden Story, DL, Lanett • 1A: Carson Jones, OL, Brantley • AISA: Eli Richey, OL, Southern Academy

Pinson Valley senior Ga’Quincy McKinstry holds a block during a playoff win over Arab last season. Photo by Vickie Unlap

Back of the Year in Class 6A, winning over Reginald Davis of Lee-Montgomery and Trey Higgins of Oxford. The first-team All-State selection also grabbed Tribune Player of the Year honors after catching 40 passes for 616 yards and 10 touchdowns to go with a pair of interceptions returned for touchdowns this season.

McKinstry was instrumental in the Indians’ climb to the state championship, earning MVP honors in the 23-13 finals win over Spanish

where he will join the No. 1-ranked recruiting class in America. The 5-star cornerback remains in the running for Mr. Football, which will be announced later this month.

LINEMAN OF THE YEAR • 7A: Jeremiah Alexander, LB, Thompson • 6A: Lee Hunter, DT, Blount • 5A: Jeremiah Williams, LB, Ramsay • 4A: Deontae Lawson, LB, Mobile Christian

BACKS OF THE YEAR • 7A: Conner Harrell, QB, Thompson • 6A: Ga’Quincy McKinstry, DB/WR, Pinson Valley • 5A: Zyquez Perryman, QB, Pleasant Grove • 4A: Kamari Lassiter, DB/ WR, American Christian • 3A: Ike Rowell, QB, Fyffe • 2A: Peyton Higgins, RB, Mars Hill • 1A: Brayden Kyle, QB, Decatur Heritage • AISA: Payton Allen, QB, Chambers Academy

Girls Hoops From page 9

Defense traveled well for Clay-Chalkville, as the visitors held Pinson to only two first-half field goals, both coming in the second quarter. The Cougars were also a little slow to find their offense, but Kameron Sanders finished the first half with a nice mid-range bucket. She worked around a Pinson Valley defender with a ball-fake, stepped inside the arc and rattled down her team’s fourth basket of the half, which sent them to the locker room with a 17-8 advantage.

Offense came a little easier in the third quarter while Clay-Chalkville pulled things out of reach at 40-12 going

Clay-Chalkville’s Tamyia Muse looks for an opening last Thursday night at Pinson Valley. Photo by Erik Harris

into the final frame. Pearson took over down low with three quick makes followed by a pair of 3-pointers from Vonquice Wilson and Ama-

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ni-Moraiyah Dawkins.

The Cougars made several trips to the charity stripe and cashed in with 12 points. Pinson Valley finished with five free-throw makes and seven total field goals.

For the Indians, seniors Yari Singler and Bryanna Williams led the way with six points in the loss. Pinson Valley now sits at 0-2 in area play following a tough loss to Mortimer Jordan on Tuesday night.

Clay-Chalkville is scheduled back in league play this Friday night at home against Mortimer Jordan.

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