The Trussville Tribune – Jan. 27 - Feb. 2, 2021

The Tribune

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From The Tribune staff reports

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

See MOODY HERO, Page 3

Buc-ee’s travel center open in Leeds

By Erica Thomas, managing editor

LEEDS — The new Bucee’s location in Leeds opened on Monday, Jan. 25, 2021, at 6 a.m. Excitement was in the air as the first customers walked through the doors.

Every wall is lined with something different. Candy, jerky, and home decor are available inside the store.

See BUC-EE’S, Page 3

Mercedes Benz, a dozen keys stolen from Trussville car dealership

By Erica Thomas, managing editor

TRUSSVILLE — The Trussville Police Department is investigating a break-in and car theft at Courtesy Buick GMC, in Trussville.

Officers were first called to the dealership in the 1800 block of Edwards Lake Road, on Saturday, Jan. 16, 2021.

See DEALERSHIP, Page 4

Moody approves rezoning for land to be used for Kelly Commerce Park

By Nathan Prewett

MOODY – At a meeting on Monday, Jan. 25, the Moody City Council approved requests to rezone a number of acres that will be used to develop Kelly Creek Commerce, otherwise known as Kelly Creek Business Park, on Kelly Creek Road.

See MOODY COUNCIL, Page 6

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1 killed, dozens hurt in tornado; Homes destroyed, but spirits unscathed From The Tribune staff reports

CENTER POINT — The National Weather Service in Birmingham upgraded the tornado that hit the Fultondale area to an EF-3. Damage was reported primarily north of Walker Chapel Road NW to U.S. Highway 31 and to New Castle Road. Crews said winds were at least 150 mph on the evening of Monday, Jan. 25, 2021.

“Keep in mind that intensity & width varied along its path,” the NWS posted on

Facebook. “The EF-3 damage was focused near Lykes Blvd. to New Castle Rd.” One person was killed when the tornado hit Fultondale. Around 30 people were injured. Major structural damage was reported in Fultondale and Center Point and other damage was seen in Clay.

In Fultondale, a 14-yearold boy was killed in the area of New Castle Road. Elliott Hernandez was a student at Fultondale High School. Authorities said the teen was with his father in the basement of their home when a

Center Point City’s Jerel Bell, Alex McCracklin, Contray Burrell, Joseph Toson, Ronnie Knight work to respond to tornado damage within city limits.

tree fell on the house. The father was also hurt.

The Hampton Inn and Hurst Towing and Recovery also had major damage.

Jefferson County Commissioner Joe Knight said he was able to see some of the damage in the hardest-hit areas the morning after.

“It’s devastating but we’ve been here and we know what we have to do,” said Knight.

“These people need help out here.”

Knight said some people will need shelter after their homes were destroyed.

“It’s very tough going and sitting on their front porch and the look on their face because some of them are still in shock,” Knight said. “We understand that.”

See TORNADO DAMAGE, Page 8

plained.

He is then given a toy as a reward. Jordan said he looks forward to seeing how much of a difference Mike makes in the law enforcement world.

“It’s for the safety of the citizens, the schools, businesses,” Jordan added. “He also alerts on casings and gunpowder so he can find firearms and things like that.

So, it’s good for the schools.

If we run him in the schools, there won’t be any firearms

and if there are, he will alert to them.”

Mike is the second K9 to join TPD. Leo has been with the department for three-anda-half years. Leo sniffs out drugs and tracks, so his handler, Officer Nate Holloway, is pleased to have another dog on the force.

“He is going to add another layer of detection work with the explosives aspect,” said Holloway. “And with tracking, it’s another valuable tool because even in ideal weather situations, dogs can only track for up to 20 minutes.”

Both dogs train twice a month. Holloway says K9 training is the most important work for detection dogs.

“The more you track, the better the dog gets at it so, training is huge,” said Holloway. “Mike is fresh out of training so we will continually work on him and get him better and better as time goes on. He’s still very young.”

As for Officer Jordan and K9 Mike, it is a treat to work together.

“He’s a good dog,” Jordan said.

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Planting roots: Whistle Stop Garden Shop coming to downtown Trussville

Hampton Inn Fultondale. Photo: Pat Bentley.

By Erica Thomas, managing editor

Mike was trained at Alabama K9. Jordan had to complete a 7-week training course to become a certified handler.

“The biggest thing I had to learn was the dog,” Jordan explained. “Learning his indications and when he is on an odor. I am still learning him, and it takes a while.”

The K9 alerts by sitting.

“You don’t want him to have an aggressive indication with bombs, you just want him to sit down,” Jordan ex-

The Trussville Tribune remembers writer Ronald Hagood, Jr.

See HAGOOD, Page 4

Trussville PD’s new K9 officer sniffing out trouble TRUSSVILLE — The Trussville Police Department welcomed a new member to the force and boy, does he have a nose for danger. Mike, the year-and-a-half-old malinois is an explosives-detecting dog but he is also able to track.

Officer Stephen Jordan is Mike’s handler. Jordan has been with the Trussville Police Department since 2017 and he is very happy to have a new partner.

“I was excited,” said Jordan. “My father-in-law was a K9 officer with Gardendale and the county and that is what made me want to do it. He passed away in 2018.

He always told me about his dog.”

Mike was born in The Czech Republic and he even has his own passport. He’s a friendly dog but when it comes to sniffing out crime, he takes his job very seriously.

“We did a safety sweep of the Bessemer Courthouse and he did a good job,” Jordan said.

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Jan. 27 - Feb. 2, 2021

Young boy who saved 5-yearold sister honored in Moody

WED THU

See WHISTLE STOP, Page 5

City of Pinson proclaims January 2021 ‘Human Trafficking Awareness Month’

By Crystal McGough

PINSON – Pinson Mayor Joe Cochran gave a proclamation at the Thursday, Jan. 21, 2021, Pinson City Council meeting to establish that the city of Pinson recognizes the month of January as “Human Trafficking Awareness Month.”

See PINSON COUNCIL, Page 4

TA Services celebrates the city of Leeds with new mural From The Tribune staff reports

LEEDS — TA Services, a full-service logistics provider, has unveiled a new mural in celebration of the history and people of Leeds. The company commissioned the painted mural as a way of giving back to the community for its continued support since 2014.

See LEEDS MURAL, Page 3

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The Trussville Tribune

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The

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

Chamber announces plans for Toast of Trussville From The Tribune staff reports

TRUSSVILLE — The Trussville Area Chamber of Commerce announces Toast of Trussville, a virtual awards celebration, on Feb. 4, 2021.

An online program produced

by The Trussville Tribune and accessible on its Facebook page will begin at 6 p.m.

For a donation of $50 or more to the chamber, donors can take home a celebration box containing a beverage, charcuterie from Meals by Misty, a special celebration gift sponsored by Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home & Gardens, and a packet of items designed to give the COVID-safe evening a festive touch.

Boxes will be available for pickup the afternoon of the party, from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

While enjoying the contents of the celebration box, at-home party-goers will watch the presentation of the chamber’s annual 2020 Ned & Goldie Paine Memorial Gatekeeper Awards, spon-

sored by First Community Mortgage, and the Trussville Tribune’s Person of the Year Award.

“A limited number of boxes are available, so the sooner make your donation,

the better your chances are of getting one,” said Melissa Walker, the chamber’s event coordinator. “Despite all the current COVID restrictions, this is going to a fun evening, and we hope you’ll want to

join us.”

For more information, call the chamber office at (205) 655-7535.

The Presenting Sponsor for Toast of Trussville is Bryant Bank.

Local students earn academic honors at Mississippi College From The Tribune staff reports

Member of the Alabama Press Association

Jan. 27 - Feb. 2, 2021

CLINTON, Miss. – A local quartet has been recognized by Mississippi College.

The private university recently announced its president’s list and dean’s list members for the fall 2020 semester. Included on the lists are students from Leeds, Pin-

son and Trussville.

According to the school, students must maintain a 4.0 grade point average based on a 4.0 system to be eligible for the president’s list.

The student must also take a full course load of at least 12 semester hours of undergraduate credit with all academic courses impacting their grade point average.

Fall 2020 Mississippi

photo courtesy mc.edu

College President’s List recipients include, Katherine Jennings, of Leeds, and Anna Deerman, of Pinson.

Included on the fall 2020 dean’s list are Luke Horst, of Pinson, and Zachary McManus, of Trussville.

To be eligible for the dean’s list, a student must maintain a 3.5 grade point average while taking a full course load of at least 12 semester hours of undergraduate credit with all academic courses impacting their grade point average.

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Moody Hero From front page

According to 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, Jan. 7, 2021. Police said the young boy, Ethan Walker, 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 mom was pumping gas.

“As she stood outside her vehicle, 18-year-old Kendarian Toran, of Jackson, Miss., 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-year-old son in what can only be described as an incredible act of brav-

Leeds Mural From front page

Painted by Mammoth Murals on the side of TA Services’ Leeds office building, the artwork reads, “Greetings from TA Services” and features an accolade or notable resident inside each letter of the company.

The Trussville Tribune

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Local / Region

ery 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., were 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

• T – The wire coils represent industry in Leeds, showcasing M&B Hangers, the only full-line hanger manufacturer remaining in the United States.

• A – An 18-wheeler, which represents TA Services and the transportation industry.

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.

On Jan. 25, Walker was honored by several agencies that took part in the investigation. You can watch the video in this story on www.

TrussvilleTribune.com.

Chief Hunt said he was impressed by the young boy’s actions.

“We are so proud of him and everything he did that day to save his little sister,” said Hunt.

Hunt presented the child with the Citizens Award for Valor.

The ATF and the FBI were also in attendance to honor Ethan, his mother and his sister, Audrey.

Kristin Walker said the attention has helped her family feel like survivors instead of victims.

“Now that Ethan’s a hero, that’s the story we can focus on,” said Walker.

Walker said the family is doing its best to move on from the incident.

in Game 7 during the 1947 World Series.

• E – This represents the Greenwave, the official mascot of Leeds’ schools.

• S – The final letter represents John Henry, the historical folklore figure, known for racing and beating the steam engine in the laying of the railroad that went through Oak Mountain Tunnel in Leeds.

Residents of Leeds and those in neighboring communities who would like to see the mural can visit TA Services, Inc. At 1405 8th Street in Leeds.

Buc-ee’s From front page

There are also pet products and baby items for sale.

General Manager Michael Bui said the store is ready to serve the city of Leeds and the surrounding areas.

“We’re really excited,” said Bui. “We’ve been set-

ting up since the beginning of December, training all of our employees, getting a lot of our fixtures ready to go, stocking the store to keep it fully stocked and we’re ready to go.”

There are 276 employees on the books at the Leeds location.

The premier travel center is known for its large selection of products for everything from food to hunting accessories. As for food, there is a large variety of sandwiches, breakfast-style tacos, pastries, homemade fudge, 80 soda dispensers and 16 flavors of Icees. The store also offers customizable coffee and of course, Beaver Nuggets. Bui said if you can’t find it under Buc-ee’s roof, it isn’t worth having.

Director of Operations,

John Taylor, was in town for the big day.

“We’re very excited to be in Leeds,” said Taylor. “Everybody’s been working hard to get the store open. We’re ready for business and we’re ready to serve the great people of Alabama.”

Customers Angel and Paige Davis were among the first people through the doors.

They said they plan to be regulars.

“We love Buc-ee’s,” said

Angel Davis. “We go to the one in Mobile and we’ve watched it since they tore all the woods down so, we’ve watched it grow.”

Among the many features at Buc-ee’s stores, the “World Famous Restrooms” have a full-time attendant. The store prides itself in clean facilities.

The store also has 120 fuel pumps.

The large chain, based in Texas, also has a location in south Alabama.

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“The city of Leeds has been incredibly supportive of our growth and instrumental in our development,” said TA Services’ president and CEO, Scott Schell. “Additionally, many of our employees who have helped to grow our company have come from this town. We wanted to create a lasting reflection of the city’s historical accomplishments and give back to those who have supported our company’s evolution. The mural is our way of showing pride for our community and to remember some of the special things that make this city so great.”

Below is what each letter symbolizes, according to the company:

• S and E – These letters feature Charles Barkley, the two-time the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame inductee was born and raised in Leeds.

• R – A motorcycle symbolizes Barbers Motorsports Park, which has been the site of the IndyCar Series’ Grand Prix of Alabama for over 10 years.

• V – Represents the “City of Valor,” a named coined for Leeds as the city is home to three Medal of Honor recipients.

• I and C – Harry ‘The Hat’ Walker, long time Leeds resident and American professional baseball player who had the game-winning hit for the Cardinals

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Hagood From front page

From The Tribune staff reports

TRUSSVILLE — The Trussville Tribune learned of the passing of a longtime freelance writer and fan of the paper. Ronald Hagood, Jr., 40, of Tarrant, passed away on Tuesday, Jan. 19, 2021.

Hagood was well known in The Tribune coverage area for his love of sports and multiple jobs. During football season, Hagood covered games and never once complained about tight deadlines and word counts.

“I’m just devastated by the news of Ron’s passing,” said Tribune Sports Editor Erik Harris. “He loved covering local sports, and was especially fond of the Springville Tigers. He would call me on Friday nights just to talk about Springville football…

I already miss those conversations.”

Hagood also worked as a delivery driver for companies such as Shipt, DoorDash and Trussville To Go, plus a medical supply company. He was also a photographer and was well known in the mud racing world as well as with the Birmingham Bulls.

“Ronnie was much more than a freelance writer,” said Tribune Managing Editor Erica Thomas. “I was fortunate enough to have him deliver groceries to my house and food to my office. When he

would pull up, all I would see was that big smile. He was always so pleasant to be around and the news of his passing is shocking. The world has lost a very bright light.”

Hagood was diagnosed with COVID-19 in late December 2020. After weeks of putting up a tough fight, he continued to struggle with pain in his chest. After seeing a doctor, he was told he must’ve pulled a muscle from coughing too much. But on Tuesday morning, his mother found him unresponsive in their home. The cause of death has not been determined. Hagood lived with diabetes, a condition his family said he had under control.

Hagood’s mother Betsy has since been hospitalized and is being treated for severe COVID-19 symptoms. The family said she has pneumonia and is still testing positive for the coronavirus.

“She could absolutely use your thoughts, prayers, affirmations, and kind words,” the family said.

Since she will remain in the hospital, for the time being, the extended family is working on funeral arrangements. Hagood did not have life insurance, so they have set up a GoFundMe account for burial expenses.

Hagood was a member of West Jefferson Baptist Church.

“It’s with a sad heart that we post the passing of Ronnie Hagood,” the church posted on Facebook. “He was a

faithful member and a Man of God. Please keep his family in your prayers. Further details will be shared when they are available.”

As the community comes to grips with the loss of a hardworking, faithful and inspirational person, The Trussville Tribune Publisher Scott Buttram offered words reflecting on the man Hagood was.

“Ron was an important member of the Tribune family,” Buttram said. “He’s been helping with high school football coverage for a number of years. Ron was always excited and enthusiastic about every assignment. He would get on the road and go wherever he was needed to cover a game. We already miss him and we’ll miss him, even more, when his season rolls back around.”

The family of Hagood is still coming to grips with the great loss. His second cousin, Jessica Bailey, said the outpouring of community members has been an eye-opener for her.

“What I’ve learned about him is that he has done a lot and more than I even realized,” said Bailey. “He was just an all-around great guy.

His friends loved him and he was his mom’s whole world.

I think he would’ve done anything for anybody if he could’ve.”

The family is in the process of making funeral arrangements for Saturday, Jan. 30, 2021. Details will be released at a later date.

the break-in. Photos of the stolen vehicle can be viewed below.

The person responsible could face charges of theft of property first-degree (motor vehicle), theft of proper-

ty first-degree (greater than $2,500), burglary third-degree, criminal mischief (greater than $2,500).

If you have information, call the Trussville Police Department at (205) 655-2101.

Dealership From front page

An employee reported finding the showroom broken into and around 12 keys missing. Upon further investigation, it was discovered that a 2019 Mercedes Benz S 560 was also gone. The car is valued at around $75,000.

Police have not identified a suspect and no arrests have been made in connection to

Pinson Council From front page

The council had Resolution 2021-2 on the agenda, establishing the city of Pinson as a “Trafficking Free Zone,” but that resolution was tabled after Councilor Robbie Roberts made a motion to remove the “zero-tolerance” wording.

“I’m always a little nervous about very rigid language, and so I would like for us to strike the section here where it says, ‘the implementation and enforcement of a zero-tolerance policy against any act which may support human trafficking,’” Roberts said. “Certainly, no one wants to be involved in human trafficking. I would like for it just to read, ‘the implementation and enforcement of a policy against any act which may support human trafficking.’

The zero-tolerance, I’m afraid somebody might accidentally be doing something and I don’t want to tie somebody up when somebody innocently does something … Personally, I’d just like to have those two words removed.”

Councilor Glenda Kirkland disagreed with the proposition to remove “zero-tolerance” from the anti-human trafficking resolution.

“If someone accidentally does something, then they are not guilty until they are proven guilty,” Kirkland said. “So, I don’t want to take out ‘zero-tolerance.’”

Human trafficking awareness advocate Linda Kennemur spoke to the council about setting up an educational meeting with Barbara Fowler, co-chair of the Community Engagement and Awareness Committee for the Child Trafficking Solutions Project. Kennemur recommended that the council table any resolutions or ordinances until after having a chance to speak with Fowler, and instead pass a proclamation for Human Trafficking Awareness Month.

“I want to bring awareness and want to find how to connect cities and towns with the person that can educate you, and this lady, Barbara Fowler, she’s amazing and she can get it done,” Kennemur said. “The things that she can show you to bring awareness

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and also how to report these things – they need to be reported in a special way – she can bring this to you. It’s kind of heartbreaking, but once that ice is broken, you probably will be as passionate as I am about it.”

The council agreed to table Resolution 2021-2, in favor of a proclamation by Mayor Cochran.

“By virtue of the authority vested in me as the mayor of the city of Pinson, in the state of Alabama, I do hereby proclaim January 2021 as Human Trafficking Awareness Month and the city of Pinson as a trafficking-free zone,” Cochran said. “I look forward to having our presentation, or education, and taking this back up as a resolution at a future date.”

The council also heard from Matt Parker, of Joe Jolly Co., and Nick Greenwood, of Hand Arendall Harrison Sale, concerning general obligation refunding (refinancing) of the city’s existing debt of $2,260,000.

“We’ve put together a new issue,” Parker said. “You’ve got the 2014 warrants outstanding, also you’ve got a 2018 issue that is outstanding, both of which are at higher interest rates than are available in the municipal bond market today.”

Parker said that he was able to get the city a new issue that will pay off the 2014 and 2018 bonds, with an average interest rate of 1.04%. The 2014 bond had an interest rate of 3.18% and the 2018 bond had an interest rate of 4.34%.

“So, it’s going to save the city a good bit of interest in your payments,” Parker said.

“We’re simply just lowering the interest rate and reducing your pay.”

The council unanimously approved Ordinance 2021-2, providing for the issuance of $2,260,000 principal amount of general obligation refunding warrants.

“In basic terms, if you had a house that was on an interest rate of 4.34% and you could get a 1.04%, it would be a no-brainer that it’s time to refi your house,” Cochran said. “It’s sort of like that; it’s a little different. … That’s a tremendous rate. I can’t imagine, anytime in the future, us doing better.”

Cochran added that the original date of payoff, 2034, will not be extended as a result of refinancing.

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In other city business, the council addressed the following: • Passed Ordinance 2021-3, authorizing the exemption of certain “covered items” from municipal sales and use tax during the state sales tax holiday (July 16-18, 2021) and certain emergency preparedness items in accordance with the state of Alabama Severe Weather Preparedness Tax Holiday (Act 2012-256) from Feb. 2628, 2021 • Passed Resolution 21-1, declaring a 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe surplus property and authorizing the mayor to sell it by sealed bids, with the minimum bid starting at $7,000 • Re-appointed Thomas Simmons to Planning and Zoning Commission for a six-year term, beginning January 2021 and ending Dec. 31, 2026 • Accepted bid from Eastern Tree Service in the amount of $11,500 for the demolition of a structure at 4238 Pinson Blvd., at the entrance of Bicentennial Park.

• Approved $2,200 donation to Palmerdale Fire Department for a memorial for fallen firefighters • Approved $18,850 for ADA improvements at the Pinson Youth Sports Complex • Approved the purchase and installation of a new digital sign for City Hall for the amount of $38,240 • Approved the purchase of four picnic tables ($600/ table) and four benches ($335/bench) for Bicentennial Park • Approved purchase of two 4-stack shoulder pad racks and three football helmet carts for Parks and Recreation for a total amount of $1,291.46 • Called for a work session on Thursday, Jan. 28, 2021, to discuss the City of Pinson Employee Manual • Announced a tentative date of May 8, 2021, for Pinson’s CityFest The Pinson City Council will next meet at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 28, for a work session regarding the employee manual. The next regular meeting of the city council will be Thursday, Feb. 4, at 7 p.m., following a pre-council work session at 6:15 p.m.

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Jan. 27 - Feb. 2, 2021

City of Leeds seeing some improvement after work on ‘nuisance’ properties

By Nathan Prewett

Leeds — As with previous meetings, the Monday, Jan. 18, 2021 meeting of the Leeds City Council was held virtually and by phone due to the ongoing COVID-19 situation.

The meeting began with a public hearing regarding a property on President St. that was being considered for declaration as a nuisance. However, Public Works Director Brad Watson said that the owners had made progress in improving it and recommended a 30-day extension.

Jose Manual Betancourt Roman, who said that he is the son of the property owner, was online and spoke in favor of the extension, which was later approved unanimously.

No one spoke against the consideration during the public hearing.

Following the public hearing was the regular meeting in which the council authorized a COVID-19 vaccine policy for city employees. The resolution specified exceptions for those “What this does is that it lays out the rules where we say that we want everybody to be vaccinated but if somebody wants to decline to be vaccinated there are conditions in the resolution such as religious objection or documented medical reasons,” said Mayor David Miller.

There were several reports from the library, fire, and police departments, which are included in an agenda packet that can be accessed online at the City of Leeds website.

Leeds Municipal Annex.

The council voted on another resolution related to COVID, which was to extend leave benefits for city employees established by the Families First Coronavirus Response ACT or FFCRA. The policy is subject to the rules of the Family Medical and Leave Act. The policy states that if leave benefits have been accumulated by an employee, they can take paid time off for reasons related to COVID from a combination of their annual, sick, comp or personal leave days. The resolution was passed unanimously.

A brief report was heard from Leeds Jane Culbreth Library Director Melanie Carden, who said that she put in a notice of intent for a grant from the state and expects the paperwork to be completed in late summer.

In the packet are the 2020 year-to-date and monthly totals from the police and fire departments. For the month of December, the police department recorded 637 calls, 30 accident investigations, 196 traffic citations, 223 traffic stops, 125 warning citations, one non-traffic citation, 25 misdemeanor arrests, six felony arrests and 54 warrants served.

In the year-to-date totals, there were 9,589 calls, 417 accidents investigated, 3,181

traffic citations, 3,891 traffic stops, 1662 warning citations, 23 non-traffic citations, 411 misdemeanor arrests, 164 felony arrests, 615 warrants served.

The fire department report recorded 2,432 incidents in 2020. There were 80 fires, 1624 rescue/emergency medical service, 39 incidents of hazardous conditions with no fire, 313 service calls, 167 good intent calls, 196 false alarms/false calls, two severe weather/natural disaster, 10 special incident types and one incident of overpressure rupture/explosion/overheat with no fire.

In other business, the council: • Amended the city budget to allow for a replacement police car for up to $30,000, as well as a UV disinfectant system for the fire department for up to $5,000 and a workers compensation fund for up to $59,507, • Reappointed Kathy Dutton to the Leeds Board of Education, • Approved a supplemental holiday carry-over policy where employees can take holiday leave without “excessive accumulation”.

The details of the resolution can be seen in the online packet, and • Approved a facility access key control policy for city employees.

Meetings are held on the first and third Mondays of every month and will be held virtually until the city government allows for in-person meetings.

Page 5

Whistle Stop From front page

By Erica Thomas, managing editor

TRUSSVILLE — Two local businesses are coming together as one in downtown Trussville.

Triple Care Lawn & Landscaping and Dixie Love Tshirt Company will be under one roof. The new Whistle Stop Garden Shop will be a place for locals and visitors of the downtown area. It is likely to attract people from all over with its variety of products and services.

Triple Care Lawn & Landscaping, owned by the Cox triplets, Michael, Joshua and Taylor, has been in business for 18 years. The triplets started cutting grass in high school and decided to go to college and study horticulture. They have lived in Trussville all of their lives and according to Michael’s wife, Katie, they have made a name for themselves by working hard and doing top-notch work.

“Anyone who knows them knows they are the hardest working guys you have ever met,” she said. “So they have very strong roots here and besides being born and raised here they have invested a lot into Trussville’s landscapes.

They take care of many places in Trussville including Edgar’s, Metro Diner building, City Hall, many of the neighborhoods: Carrington, Trussville Springs and that is only to name a few.”

And Katie Cox has deep roots of her own. In fact, her grandparents, Booty and Sue Peoples, owned The Bama, the only restaurant in downtown Trussville from 1965 until 1980. Her father also owns his own business, so Katie comes from a long line of successful entrepreneurs, a fact she takes great pride in.

“It means everything that I can continue that,” said Katie Cox. Katie is the owner of

Dixie Love Tshirt Company logo with a tree from Dixie’s farm (left) and Katie Cox’s grandmother, Dixie (right).

Dixie Love Tshirt Company, which is named after her grandmother, who was in the textile business.

“It means so much to me to be able to honor my Grandmother Dixie every day with my company,” she said.

Building a brick-and-mortar means more to the Cox family because of their family history.

“Our roots are very deep so, we’re very excited to be able to finally build our own brick-and-mortar because until now we have just rented from places and so we’re excited to finally put down some roots of our own,” said Katie Cox. Dixie Love Tshirt Company has a variety of items including custom-designed t-shirts, tanks, hoodies, kitchen towels, and cards. You can also have original handwriting printed on some items.

“I love creating custom gifts because it gives me the chance to help others honor their loved ones and I know exactly how much that means,” said Katie Cox. The Whistle Stop Garden Shop will be at 111 Railroad Avenue. The group of young business owners has already purchased the property and is finalizing plans for the building. One thing’s for sure…

Katie Cox said the building will offer a small-town feel and will look like it has been part of downtown for years.

She said the garden shop will be just as much about the experience as what people are shopping for.

“The most exciting part about garden shops is that it’s fun to just window shop,” said Cox. “You don’t even have to go to buy anything.”

The atmosphere of the shop will offer beautiful backdrops for people to take pictures. There will also be a rentable space for small events such as teas and showers.

Joshua Cox will work in the shop as a florist. He has the ability to do floral arts and arrangements. Some of his pieces have been placed at Ferus Artisan Ales, according to Katie Cox. “Not only will we have your seasonal plants and all of your garden needs, but we will also have fresh cut flowers,” she said. “You can come in and pick out your flowers to take home or you can have us arrange them for you.”

Whistle Stop Garden Shop will also offer event floral design.

And the name?

Before his death, the late Booty Peoples told his granddaughter she should call the new shop Whistle Stop Garden Shop since it is on Railroad Avenue and across the street from train tracks.

“It felt perfect!” exclaimed Cox. “Perfect for our family-owned garden shop with a small-town feel.”

The Trussville Tribune

Page 6

Moody Council From front page

The requests were made

by Michael A. Mouron of Capstone Real Estate Investments along with Paul Eaves to rezone 119 acres located off Kelly Creek road, as well as another 14 acres in the same area from AG-1 (Agriculture) to B-5, which is business commercial park district.

Mouron made an additional request with the estate of Lottie Hyche to rezone 40 acres located off of Kelly Creek to B-5.

According to a brochure on the St. Clair County Economic Development Council’s website, the classification of these areas as B-5 will allow for light manufacturing, which it said will be “in line with the communities desire to have technology-based jobs.”

The finished project could provide an estimated 600-800 jobs for citizens commuting to Birmingham, the brochure says.

City attorney James Hill spoke before the council, giving a background on the proposed project and to address concerns about traffic issues near households that were brought up in past hearings before last night’s vote.

Hill said that the project will have “the most restrictive” regulations to address the traffic concerns and other related issues. The site will be reviewed by an architectural committee to handle parking spaces, lighting, aesthetic,

and buffering.

He said that a conceptual plan shows that there will be five separate lots that cannot be increased or reduced by more than two according to the regulations.

He added that a traffic study has been made “to ensure that the infrastructure that will be made provided to Kelly Creek Road at this park entrance is adequate to support the prospective traffic in addition to the extent that new businesses come in we have the ability to attain new traffic studies and the developer will be required to increase any necessary infrastructure on that part of Kelly Creek Road as well.”

He also said that St. Claire County authorities can widen the road as well.

The requests were passed as Ordinance M2021-01-05.

Though most on the council voted in favor of rezoning,

council member Linda Crowe was the sole “no” vote on the resolution. She commented that though she did not oppose the project itself she had concerns about the roads near property owners on Kelly Creek Road.

“The only reason is the road,” she said. “That’s the only reason. There are some houses that’s very close and it’s going to affect those people. As far as that project – I’m not against it, it’s the road. And I just couldn’t do that to those people.”

Afterwards the council approved adding Moody resident Carol Hornsby to the park’s Architectural Review

Committee or ARC board, which includes Lee, the city engineer, CDA chairman and Mouron.

At the beginning of the meeting the council heard the monthly reports from department heads, including the police and fire departments.

Moody Police Chief Mike Hunt reported that there were 1,210 calls made to the department in December, as well as 36 arrests, 187 warning tickets, 215 citations, 49 misdemeanors, 27 felonies, cars drove 15,265 miles and $607.65 was used for expenses.

Fire and Rescue Chief Larry Horton reported 198 responses in December (with 2,029 made in the year), four fires with one being a vehicle and three woods/grass, 120 medical calls, 10 wrecks, 31 public service calls, 21 false alarms and one mutual service.

In other business the council: Approved several requests from Hunt, including purchasing new tires on unit #355 for $662, Approved new windshields on units 343 and 344 for $1,100, Approved the purchase of a radiator shutter system for $630, Approved the purchase of two new radios for $2,390, Approved spending up to $2,000 in uniform budget, Approved Sgt. Ron Richardson to go to the TASRO conference in Gulf Shores in June, and Approved Hunt’s request to repair a 2017 Chev Tahoe that was struck by a deer for $1,278. 35.

The council approved several requests from Horton, including the purchase of medical supplies for $450, Approved the yearly service on the breathing air compressor for $850, and Approved the purchase of batteries for handheld radios for $372.

Meetings are held on the second and fourth Monday of every month at 6 p.m. at Moody City Hall on 670 Park Ave.

Jan. 27 - Feb. 2, 2021

2 charged after Trussville PD conduct drug trafficking investigation in Center Point From The Tribune staff reports

TRUSSVILLE — The Trussville Police Department arrested two people from a home in Center Point on Wednesday, Jan. 13, 2021.

Zachary Ellenburg, 38, of Center Point, and Ashley Files, 41, of Clay, are both facing charges in the case.

Trussville Police Department’s Direct Enforcement Unit (DEU), Criminal Investigations Division (CID), and Patrol Division successfully conducted a search of the home in the 1400 block of 4th Way Northwest, after receiving a search warrant from a Jefferson County Judge.

When no one came to the door of the home, the officers made entry and found several people inside.

According to a police report, police also found 48 grams of suspected methamphetamine, suspected Suboxone pills, suspected THC wax, suspected LSD, suspect-

Zachary Ellenburg (left) and Ashley Files (right). Photo: Jefferson County Jail.

ed marijuana, and suspected GHB, along with hypodermic syringes, several pipes, a spoon with suspected drug residue, digital scales, and a metal grinder.

Ellenburg was arrested for trafficking methamphetamine, unlawful possession of marijuana first-degree, unlawful possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Files was arrested for unlawful possession of a con-

trolled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

The other people inside the home were released from the scene and not charged.

Ellenburg and Files were taken to the Trussville City Jail and later transferred to the Jefferson County Jail. Ellenburg was given $16,500 in bonds and Files was given $5,500 in bonds. Both have since bonded out of jail.

Ellenburg and Files are considered innocent unless proven guilty.

Suspect in shooting death of woman in Birmingham already in jail after arrest by Trussville PD From The Tribune staff reports

TRUSSVILLE — The suspect in the 2020 shooting death of a woman in Birmingham was charged in January 2021, but he was already in jail because of the actions of the Trussville Police Department.

Delvin Lamar Hunter, 28, is now charged with capital murder.

The shooting victim was 32-year-old Stacey Flournoy.

It was the first homicide of 2020. Flournoy was killed on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2020. Birmingham Police found her on the front porch of a home in the Inglenook community. Investigators later determined she was shot while sitting in a vehicle. She was taken to UAB Hospital where she was pronounced dead.

Hunter was charged with capital murder because the victim was inside a vehicle.

Another man was shot at the scene and he survived.

Hunter is also charged with attempted murder in that shooting.

Warrants were obtained for capital murder in January 2021 and the suspect was already in the Jefferson County Jail after being arrested in Trussville in September 2020.

In that case, Trussville officers received a Flock Safety alert about a stolen tag on Sept. 8, 2020. They tracked down the vehicle and ar-

rested two people on drug trafficking charges. Hunter, the driver of the vehicle was taken into custody and later charged with trafficking Oxycodone, trafficking Adderall, second-degree unlawful possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia and certain persons forbidden to possess a pistol. Due to an extensive criminal history, Hunter’s bond was set at $2,104,000.

Hunter was unable to post that bond and remained in jail. He is now being held with no bond on the capital murder charge.

Hunter is considered innocent unless proven guilty.

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Jan. 27 - Feb. 2, 2021

The Trussville Tribune

Page 7

Trussville City Council approves stage agreement with Ferus, votes to form cemetery authority

“Goldkist” Property to be leased to company for temporary storage purposes. Photo: City of Trussville.

By Erica Thomas, managing editor

TRUSSVILLE — The Trussville City Council met for a workshop and regular meeting on Thursday, Jan. 21, 2021.

Councilor Ben Short was not in attendance due to work obligations but all measures were passed unanimously by councilors at the meeting.

PUBLIC SAFETY An ordinance to install a four-way stop and pedestrian crosswalk at Bethune Parkway and Caldwell Drive was among those measures. The move comes after a recommendation by the city’s Public Safety Committee. According to Police Chief Eric Rush, about 3,000 vehicles travel through the intersection every day.

“This is really to control traffic at that intersection and to allow pedestrian foot traffic,” Rush said.

CEMETERY AUTHORITY The council also approved an ordinance to establish a

Cemetery Rehabilitation Authority. The board will consist of four members plus a city council liaison who will act as a voting member. City Attorney Rick Stotser said he has spoken to Eddie Seal from Jefferson County Memorial to review documents relating to the authority because of his experience in such matters.

“It’s to form a board and take over maintenance and all of the stuff they have to do for Mount Nebo and the Baptist Cemetery across the way and any other cemetery that may be formed in the future in the city,” said Councilor Jaime Anderson.

GOLDKIST PROPERTY A resolution to declare city property at 7200 Will Pond Road, commonly known as the “Goldkist property” a surplus was passed.

The property will be leased to SCA Performance, Inc. for storage purchases. According to Mayor Buddy Choat, the company will provide 24-hour security during the short-term lease.

“They have several hun-

dred vehicles and they were looking for a place to store them,” Choat said. “The only place we have that has enough room for that is Goldkist.”

If at any time the city needs to use the property, the lease states they can terminate the lease with a 30-day notice.

LINE OF CREDIT In other business, the council voted to renew a Synovus Bank line of credit of up to $6,000,000 that the city has had for several years. The line of credit does not have to be used but can be in the event the city needs the funds.

FACILITY USE AGREEMENT The city will enter into a facilities use agreement with the Trussville Scouting Association, as long as the Trussville City Schools Board of Education approves the measure. Girl Scouts of America Troop 679, Boy Scouts of America Troop 216, Boy Scouts of America Troop 216G, and Boy Scouts of America Pack 216 have asked to use a building on the

site of a formally occupied Hewitt-Trussville School, at 601 Parkway Drive. The facility is not being used by the city and the association is in need of a place to hold meetings, conduct operations and store equipment.

STAGE AGREEMENT The city council approved a resolution to enter into a stage management agreement with Ferus, LLC, for the use of the stage in the city’s downtown Quad I area. The one-year agreement will allow Ferus to schedule events on the city asset. Ferus will operate, manage and promote the venue and will book acts, according to the agreement.

The agreement states that the city’s hope is that the stage area will attract people to the city.

Choat said other similar venues are made to pay a marketing firm to do the job that Ferus owner Coby Lake is offering to do free of charge.

“We even thought about picking up trash and stuff in the area and Coby said if he is going to have people out

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there working, they can just do it,” Choat said during an interview in November.

Stotser said with the COVID-19 pandemic, it would be difficult for the city to book any events for the foreseeable future, but the city does have the right to schedule events on the stage. anyone interested in booking the stage for an event must contact Ferus. There is also a contracted company available to operate the stage lights and sound equipment for $350 per event, although Choat said the company has agreed to work with the public to make the price accessible.

For now, Ferus will book at least 20 local and regional acts.

As for the agreement, Choat said once the Trussville Entertainment District (TED) is officially designated as an Entertainment District by Alabama ABC Law, changes will likely be made to the agreement.

The full agreement can be read in this story on www.

TrussvilleTribune.com.

OTHER BUSINESS Items approved as part of the consent agenda were: • Accounts Payable • Resolution to Accept a Bid For Coaches Education Program • Approve First Line Supervision training for TPD Sgt. Jean Bryant, Sgt. John Bryant and Cpl. Keith Fuell Feb 2-4 at the Cullman County Sheriff’s office. $295 each • Approve online Basic School Resource Officer Certification training for TPD Sgt. Adam Filetti and Officer Adam Anderson. $495 each • Appoint Wendell Gibson to the Trussville Industrial Development Board, with term expiring July 14, 2023 • Reappoint Morris Deason to the Trussville Parks & Recreation Board, with term expiring Feb 28, 2025 • Hire Zachary Gables as TFD Firefighter Paramedic (Grade 19 – Step 2F), effective Jan 30, 2021

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The Trussville Tribune

Page 8

Koch Foods announces $16M expansion, 135 new jobs in Alabama

By The Associated Press

GADSDEN, Ala. (AP) — One of the largest poultry processors in the U.S. is investing nearly $16 million to expand a processing plant in Alabama, an investment officials say will bring 135 jobs over the next three years.

The funds will go towards

the production line of the Koch Foods processing plant in Gadsden, making the company Etowah County’s second-largest employer, the city said Wednesday in a news release. The company currently has roughly 1,000 employees at the plant.

The Gadsden City Council on Tuesday approved a 10-

year tax break for the company of all state and local non-educational property taxes and all non-educational construction-related transaction taxes, the release said. But officials believe the expansion will increase funding for schools and bring in more taxes for the city.

“We’re really proud to have Koch Foods in Gadsden,” Gadsden Mayor Sherman Guyton said in the news release. “I’m pleased that they’re continuing to expand here, bringing new developments and more good-paying jobs for our citizens.”

The recent announcement is the latest in a series of expansions for Koch Foods. The company previously

Investigators suspect foul play in disappearance of Walker County woman From The Tribune staff reports

WALKER COUNTY — The Walker County Sheriff’s Office announced investigators suspect foul play in the disappearance of a woman.

Summer Lashay Buzbee, 23, was reported missing on Dec. 21, 2020. The sheriff’s office was initially told Buzbee was last seen on Dec. 17, but have since learned she was seen at a family member’s place of employment on Dec. 20.

Buzbee was known to walk most places and frequented residents in west Jasper.

On Friday, Jan. 22, the sheriff’s office, along with vol-

Summer Lashay Buzbee. Photo: Walker County Sheriff’s Office.

unteers, searched the area of Williams Road and Old Russellville Road and found some of Buzbee’s belongings.

“This ties in circumstantially to what we think may have happened, but it is not enough evidence to make an arrest at this point,” the sheriff’s office posted on Facebook. “Our person of interest,

Christian Shanklin, came in to speak with us a couple days ago, but elected to speak with representation. Of course, this is his right to do.”

The sheriff’s office said Shanklin is now considered a suspect. Surveillance footage shows Shanklin may have been the last known person with Buzbee, investigators said.

If you have any information on what may have happened to Buzbee, you are asked to call the Walker County Sheriff’s Office at (205) 302-6464. The $2,500 reward is being offered for information leading to the location of Buzbee or information that leads to prosecution in connection to the case.

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Jan. 27 - Feb. 2, 2021

Tornado Damage From front page

Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey tweeted about the damage.

“The people of Fultondale took a hard hit last night — I’m grieved over the loss of life, injuries, homes & damaged businesses,” Ivey said. “I offer my prayers & deepest sympathies & pledge the full support & resources our state has to offer. I am with you, Fultondale!”

Rusk Mobile Home Park

Cochran contacted several local churches to try and find shelter 54 adults and 15 kids who had nowhere to go Tuesday night.

Rusk Mobile Home Park

Jefferson County EMA Director Jim Coker said search and rescue efforts were still underway Tuesday morning.

Fultondale Mayor Larry Holcomb thanked the public for concern and asked people to avoid areas with damage.

Several homes in Center Point were hit and do-

“These kids are all zoned to go to Pinson schools,” said Cochran. “Although they don’t live in Pinson incorporated, it doesn’t matter. They are part of our extended community and so anything people can do out there to try and gather the resources to help these people.

If you look around, they are re-

Rusk Mobile Home Park

nated items such as bottled water, tarps, canned goods, COVID-19 items and other items were being accepted at Center Point City Hall. Councilor DM Collins led the effort to collect and distribute supplies.

“We’re accepting items for donations,” said Collins. “We have a lot of citizens who had structural damage.”

Commissioner Knight also visited Center Point and unincorporated areas of east Jefferson County. One of the hardest hit areas was off of Pinson Valley Parkway, at Rusk Mobile Home Park. Although there were no injuries, many homes in the park were destroyed.

“I see a community coming together at a time of crisis,” said Knight. “This could be an example for all America.”

The community gathered under a large tent and helped neighbors clean throughout the day. Many trailers were damaged and several were destroyed in the neighborhood.

The American Red Cross responded to the community and handed out tarps and food to those in need.

Pinson Mayor Joe Cochran also visited Rusk Mobile Home Park to see what needs he could help meet.

“There is complete devastation of the property but the most amazing thing is to see how this community pulls together,” said Cochran. “Just great people helping each other.”

ally taking care of themselves but there is going to be a financial burden here.”

Israel Albarabo, owner of Four Corner Contractors, heard about the damage early Tuesday morning and came to Rusk Mobile Home Park to help.

“I started helping everybody,” said Albarabo. “It’s a

“We’ve never been in this situation,” said Webster.

“Some things are salvageable.

Some personal items, clothes and his bed survived.”

Webster’s father was not inside the trailer when it was hit by the tornado. He was across the street in a brick building.

He said shortly after the tornado came through, he realized how bad the damage was and instantly went to find people.

There were several people trapped but were rescued and no injuries were reported.

In Clay, Old Springville Road, near Paradise Valley, was blocked by a downed tree and powerlines. Crews worked all day Tuesday to remove the tree. On Brewer Lane, at least two homes were damaged.

There was also damage in the Holly Springs subdivision.

Power outages were reported and Alabama Power was notified. At least two homes on Brewer Lane had significant damage from fallen trees and high winds.

Power lines were also down over Center Point Parkway near the Jefferson County satellite Courthouse. Also in Center Point, Mayor Bobby Scott said quite a bit of damage was seen in the 500 block of Sunhill Road. The steeple off Hilldale Baptist Church was in the roadway after the storm.

Since Tuesday was trash day, Scott said many people had already put out trash cans when the apparent tornado hit.

He said trash cans and trash were strewn around Sunhill Road.

Fultondale High School, Fultondale Elementary, Center Point High School, Erwin

Rusk Mobile Home Park

mostly Hispanic community and we know everybody and we just started helping.”

The groundskeeper of the mobile home park lives in a mobile home that was cut in two by a fallen tree. His Daughter, Miranda Webster quickly came to see the damage and to help the community she grew up in.

Middle, Erwin Intermediate, Center Point Elementary, ClayChalkville High School, ClayChalkville Middle, Bryant Park Elementary, Chalkville Elementary, and Clay Elementary were all closed Tuesday.

Gov. Kay Ivey announced she will tour damage in Jefferson County on Wednesday, Jan. 27.

Crews clear power lines and tree from Old Springville Road in Clay.

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Jan. 27 - Feb. 2, 2021

The Trussville Tribune

Calendar

Birmingham Restaurant Week 2021 – Winter Edition January 14 - January 31

Cold Weather? Oh it’s snow problem! Birmingham Restaurant Week (BRW) is back for Winter and is bringing the heat! Presented by Spire, BRW Winter Edition is happening January 14-31, 2021.

Support Birmingham’s Premier Culinary and Beverage event with Curbside and To-Go options as well as traditional, but limited, dine-in options, as safety precautions are still being mandated. Patio seating will also be available for those visiting restaurants with outdoor heaters. Family-Style Meal options will also be offered on BRW menus this year. Consider BRW Winter Edition a holiday after the holidays! Put down your cooking utensils and call off the diet – you deserve to indulge.

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

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Be Mine Bundles February 1 - February 28 (All ages) Register for a Be Mine Bundle!

We want to show appreciation

for all of our awesome patrons in honor of Library Lover’s Month. Each bundle will contain goodies & fun for all ages.

Register here: https://forms. gle/mLU2Stie8C4P3ja39 You will be notified when your bundles 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.

Venue Pinson Public Library Storytime for Growin’ Beans with Ms. Allison: Valentine’s Day February 5 @ 10:00 am 10:30 am

Join us on the 1st & 3rd Friday of each month for an online storytime video. You can watch the video live on our Facebook page or check it out on our website: pinsonlibrary. com/events We’ll also provide resources for activities to do at home.

Our theme for this week is Valentine’s Day! Venue Pinson Public Library

watch the video live on our Facebook page or check it out on our website: pinsonlibrary. com/events We’ll also provide resources for activities to do at home.

Our theme for this week is Friendship!

Venue Pinson Public Library TPR’s Car Show March 13 @ 9:00 am - 2:00 pm

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TPR will host its very first Car Show. This is a free event for everyone. Participates will show their sweet rides and the community can oooh and awe. There will be some great door prizes and fantastic food trucks. So, Cruise on out and enjoy an amazing fun Saturday.

Co Ed Adult Volleyball March 16 @ 6:00 pm - May 11 @ 5:00 pm

Reg. is going on now. The teams will play on Tuesday night starting March 16. These are co-ed teams Each team must have 2 women and 4 men or 2 men and 4 women on the court at all times. There is only room for 8 teams and they are filling up fast.

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The Trussville Tribune

Page 10

Jan. 27 - Feb. 2, 2021

O b i t u a ry

Joseph Howard "Josey" Walter

Leslie William "Bill" Springer

12, 1995 ~ january 20, 2021 (age 26)

january

On Wednesday, January 20, 2021 Joseph Howard "Josey" Walter, age 26 passed away peacefully in his sleep. Joseph had been dealt a terrible debilitating disease called Pompe. This disease had him on a ventilator for 22 years, yet he still got up every day and got on his computer and led a very happy life. Joseph never let his disease be his life. He always treated others as if their problems were bigger than his. Anyone who met Joseph came away feeling better because of his funny and compassionate spirit. He loved his computer, his animals especially, Holly, his family and people. He was an elegant writer and was working on a science fantasy book. He graduated from Clay-Chalkville High School in the top 20 of his class and received a full scholarship to Kaplan University. He will be sorely missed by everyone. He is survived by his mother, Debbie and brother, Jonathan; aunts, Linda Whitley (Gene), Becky Palmer (Jeff) and cindy McCown. He is also survived by many cousins, He was preceded in death by his father, Bo, brother, Jeremy and both set of grandparents. Debbie and the family would especially like to thank the following people who also loved Joseph; Fireman of Clay and Center, Point 911 operators, Children's Hospital, UAB House Calls, Donna Slayton and the vent team, Dr. Steven Barron, Dr. J. P. Clancy, Dr. Barry Byrne, Dr. Ashley Nichols, Meggan Sharp, Clay Chalkville Teachers, Pam Smith, who was his special teacher grades 1-12, especially Miss Ora his nurse and all other nurses who have passed through Joseph's life and the special "Christmas Groups" who brought him such joy and happiness.

Joseph will be cremated so no flowers are necessary. If you would like to donate in Joseph's name and honor, please give to your local humane society.

Brenda J. Seale

14, 1949 ~ january 19, 2021 (age 71)

january

(age 79)

25, 1941 ~ january 18, 2021

Leslie William “Bill” Springer passed away in the company of his family, after a long battle with Parkinson’s Disease on January 18, 2021. Born on January 25, 1941, he was a Birmingham native. He earned a degree from Howard College and began a 32-year career in public education. He went on to earn his MA from the University of Alabama, and an AA certificate from UAB. His career began at Rutledge Junior High and proceeded to Norwood Elementary. In 1977, he began a 16-year stint as Principal of Woodrow Wilson Elementary.

His love of education lasted into retirement, as he continued to learn and teach others. He led hundreds of tours on the history of Birmingham, the city he so dearly loved. Bill was a volunteer docent at Sloss Furnaces, Vulcan Park, the Alabama Theater and Oak Hill Cemetery where he participated in historical reenactments portraying James Sloss.

He was Assistant Scout Master and Committee Chairman for BSA Troop 56 in Huffman. He also served two summers as director of Camp Sequoyah.

A devout Christian, Bill was dedicated to living the teachings of Scripture showing love, kindness, and patience to everyone he met. In his life he was a member of Calvary, Ruhama, and Huffman Baptist churches.

He is preceded in death by his mother Lillian Davis Springer, father Freeman, and brother Hagan. He is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Patricia; sons, Patrick and John; daughter-in-law Julie Ward; granddaughter, Gabby; his aunt Betty Davis Hollis; brother, Thomas; nephew Phillip, niece-in-law Angela, and their son, Matthew. The loss of Bill is massive, but we remember him as a selfless and loving husband, father, grandfather and friend.

To remember his legacy, the family asks for memorial gifts sent to UAB for Parkinson’s Research. You may mail checks to UAB Gift Records, 1720 2nd Avenue South, AB 123-, Birmingham, AL 35294-0112 or you may call 205-934-7242.

You may also choose to donate to Huffman Baptist Church.

july

Brenda Joan Seale, age 71, from Trussville, went to her Heavenly home on Tuesday, January 19, 2021.

Brenda was born, July 14, 1949, in Empire, Alabama. She was a member of Grace Community Church at Deerfoot, where she also worked as Financial Secretary.

Brenda was preceded in death by her son, Danny Seale; her parents, Ray and Emily Palmer; her sister, Elna Peel and her brothers, George and Bobby Eustice.

She is survived by her husband, Buddy Seale; her daughter, Melissa (Mark) Elliott; grandchildren, Maggie, Brooke and Tyler Elliott; a host of nieces and nephews; and many dear friends who mourn with her family today.

Donna Tidwell McGee

12, 1953 ~ january 14, 2021 (age 67) july

Donna McGee, 67, of Pinson, AL, gained her wings and went to her eternal home on January 14, 2021. Donna was born in Montgomery, AL on July 12, 1953. She attended Tarrant High School. Donna is preceded in death by her parents Hollis B. Stricklin and Pauline Stricklin, both of Tarrant, AL Donna is survived by her loving husband John Timothy ( Tim) McGee, Sr. of 7 years. Her daughter Traci Holt (Anthony) of Pinson, AL, bonus son Tim McGee, Jr (Jennifer) of Trussville, AL, bonus daughter April DeRossett (Barry) of Fort Myers, FL and bonus daughter Kassy Sansenbach (Daniel) Two Granddaughters, Alyson Holt and Hannah Holt. Several bonus grandchildren: Brittany (Matt), Mady (Dean) August, John Scott, Madison-Zoe, Ava, Brie, Gage, Noah and Evan.

Bonus Great Grandchildren, Karson and Sawyer. She worked for 20 years as a loyal employee at Anchor Packaging in Birmingham, AL. She had a great love of animals and loved flamingos. She loved spending time with family and friends. She was involved in every aspect of her daughter and grandchildren’s lives. She was an avid Auburn fan and loved traveling with her husband, their favorite spot was the beach. Donna could light up a room with her smile and had the most infectious laugh. She was loved and adored by everyone who knew her. She touched so many lives and left an impact on everyone she came in contact with. In Lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made in her memory to The American Heart Association - www.heart.org. Or to one of her favorite animal rescues, Crossing Paths Animal Rescue - www.xpar.org.

Ask Eddie

Clare Ruth Cruce

19, 1933 ~ january 16, 2021 (age 87) july

Clare Cruce passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 16, 2021. Known affectionately as Mom or Nana, Clare's faith has become sight as she is now residing in her heavenly home in the presence of Jesus, a place she has longed for all of her life!

Clare is survived by her three children, Jan (Dave) DeK.lavon, Susan (Willie) Woodham, and Michael (Peggy) Cruce. Beloved siblings, Charles (Cathy) Mullen, and Bette ( dearly missed Richard) Rowe. Much loved nieces, Gayla, Terri, Bette Lynn, Leisa, Heidi, and many great-nieces and nephews. She was Nana to the joys of her heart, her grandchildren: Adam and Barbara Weber, Stephen Woodham, Kyle and Annie Weber, Michael and Laura Cruce, Randi and Coley Sanford, Amanda Cruce, Austin and Monica Cruce, Great-grandchildren: Darien, Phoebe, Emily Joy, Kathryn Elizabeth, Karter, Riley Anne, and Lincoln Charles.

In Clare's early years, she was a licensed manicurist at Art Mode on Mt. Brook Circle, worked in a millinery store in downtown Birmingham, and sold movie tickets at The College Theater. She also enjoyed being a student at her beloved Woodlawn High School.

After high school, Clare attended Wheeler Business College where she met the love of her life, Neal Cruce. They married in 1953. They moved to Florida shortly before their first child was born, and remained there for 38 years, raising their family and serving the Lord before returning to Birmingham in 1994.

Clare always told everyone she loved her children fiercely--and she did! She was an excellent seamstress and would sew beautiful clothes for them. When they were in school, Mom made sure they would have a snack on the table when they came home. It was usually Ants on a Log ( celery with peanut butter and raisins stacked on top of the peanut butter to look like ants) or carrot sticks.

Friday night was treat night; no fat or calories were counted! And the kids in the neighborhood loved Mom, too.

Everyone loved to play in the yard as Mom was welcoming and would bring fresh pitchers of Kool Aid for all of them when they would play hard in the warm and humid South Florida weather. Mom was nicknamed the "Kool-Aid Mom." Mom never missed any event in which her children were involved. She would let others in the audience know who her babies were! And to this day, she still called Jan and Susan her baby, and Michael, my boy! Her children truly were and always will be her life, and what brought her the most joy any time she could be with them!

Clare also deeply loved the Lord and would share His love with others. Her favorite chapter in the Bible was Psalm 91. She called this passage her 9-1-1 call whenever she would pray for traveling mercies, job situations, emergencies, or health needs for anyone in her family, or her friends.

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For the most part, Clare enjoyed good physical health until the last six months of 2020. We as a family would like to thank the entire wonderful staff of the Springs Manor Assisted Living Unit at the Village of Cook Springs for making her last 3 1/2 years of life some of her happiest ever!

Eddie Seal, Funeral Director

Clare was a member of North Park Baptist Church, and we express our appreciation and thanks to the Pastoral Staff, Deacons, and Homebound Ministry, who constantly stayed in contact with Mom in the years since losing Dad. The many cards, weekly bulletins, phone calls, and visits were a huge blessing to her.

What Should I Do First When a Loved One Dies?

When a loved one passes away, it is always a jarring and disorienting thing – even if the death is not necessarily sudden or unexpected. A thousand thoughts will suddenly start running through an individual’s mind; there are a jumble of emotions, memories, and practical worries about the funeral plans and other immediate arrangements.

Clare loved playing Bingo, Trivia, Noodle Ball, and going on outings before COVID restrictions ceased off-campus activities. The entire Springs Manor Staff always made her feel much loved, and they always went the extra mile for her, especially when her health began to fail.

We would also like to thank the great staff on Woodland Way at The Village Of Cook Springs who took care of our Mom in her final few months on this side of heaven. We appreciate our Healthcare Angels!

Clare was also a member of the Tele-Bible phone-in Sunday School Class at Highview Baptist Church in Louisville, KY, home church of Jan and Dave. Our family also thanks The Jubilee Class at Highview for the hundreds of cards they sent her over the past 6 years. She read, saved, and cherished each one!

As a Stage 2 colon cancer survivor, Clare was a regular contributor to the Adam's Pantry Food Ministry. This ministry provides free, round the clock soups and snacks for cancer patients at Baptist Hospital East in Louisville, Ky. Memorial gifts can be sent to North Park Baptist Church, 5700 Deerfoot Parkway, Trussville, AL 35173, or Adam's Pantry Ministry c/o Highview Baptist Church, 7711 Fegenbush Lane, Louisville, KY 40228 *****1 Corinthians 13:12. For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face.*****

Margaret Laster Wetzel

In this time of turmoil, it is important to step back and think things through pragmatically. Before the floral arrangements and decisions about the funeral service itself, what are the very first steps you need to take to ensure your loved one’s body is cared for?

This depends on the circumstances of the death. When a loved one dies in a hospital or another medical care facility, the doctors and nurses will generally handle the important phone calls to the funeral home and other relevant authorities.

But when your loved one dies at home, it is advisable to make your first call a 911 call.

An emergency dispatcher will arrive to ensure that your loved one’s body is cared for properly and that is readied for transition to the funeral home. If your loved one was under hospice care, you may simply call the hospice service in lieu of 911. The important thing is getting a medical professional there before anyone else.

From there call the funeral director of your choice. The funeral director will transport the body, get the death certificate, and guide you through the remaining steps in the funeral planning process. At that point, some calls to the immediate family can be made.

Above all: Make sure you have someone there with you to keep you company and help you cope during this difficult time. It is imperative that you take care of yourself and protect your health as you also deal with your loss.

3, 1933 ~ january 18, 2021 (age 87) march

Margaret Laster Wetzel passed away January 18, 2021. She was born in Birmingham, Alabama on March 3, 1933, the youngest in a close-knit family of seven sisters from Tarrant City, Alabama. After graduating from Tarrant High School in 1951, she began work for the City of Birmingham Police Department in their Legal Department. She was married in 1955 and lived and worked in Auburn, Alabama where her first son was born. She moved back to Birmingham, Alabama in 1959. She was a proud stay at home mom and went back to work for Motion Industries after her sons graduated from high school and left for college. After separating from her husband of many years, she found love and happiness with Norman Mosley who was lovingly known as “Papa” to her grandchildren. She retired after twenty years of service with Motion Industries in their accounting department. Margaret loved the outdoors and being at the beach and on the water and was an avid gardener. She also LOVED to fish. She was a member of East Lake United Methodist Church.

She was proceeded in death by her parents, Minette and Wilma Laster and five of her sisters and their husbands; Catherine Neugent (Lewis), Wanda Albers (John), Mitzi Laster, Ramsay Harless (Marvin) and Betty Morrow (Jack).

She is survived in her immediate family by her two sons, Steven (Robin) and Glenn (Mary Beth), five grandchildren that LOVED their Mimi, Carleton Riser (Brian), Trevor, Lucy, Mary and Alden Jenkins (Jonathan) and one great granddaughter, Adelaide Bankston Riser. She is also survived by her sister, Toni Godwin of Madison, Alabama. She will be missed dearly by her friends, her large family and many loving nieces and nephews.

“When I come to the end of my journey and travel my last weary mile, just forget that I ever frowned and only remember the SMILE!” (excerpt from When I’m Gone by Lyman Hancock) There will be a graveside service at Jefferson Memorial Cemetery at 1pm on Tuesday, January 26, 2021. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made in Margaret’s Memory to the Smile Train Organization, PO Box 96231, Washington, D.C. 20090-6231. You can also donate by phone at 1.800.932.9541.

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10, 1942 ~ january 14, 2021

James Robert Mundy, Jr., of Trussville, passed away on January 14, 2021.

He was a State Farm Agent and a member of First Baptist Church of Center Point. He was a graduate of Woodlawn High School 1962 and Livingston State University 1966, where he played college football and was a member of TKE Fraternity. He was preceded in death by his parents, James Robert Mundy, Sr. and Clara Phillips Mundy; his grandparents, John E. Mundy and Edna Manderson Mundy and John Phillips and Ida Bell Phillips. He is survived by his sons, James “Bo” Robert Mundy, III and Christopher Michael Mundy (Amanda); his sister, Orlean Mundy Bruce; his fiancé, Sue Pate; his grandchildren, Katherine “Katie” Ann Mundy, Jack Stryker Mundy, Summer Laurel Mundy; nieces and nephews, John Bruce, Kelli F. Coleman, Shannon Bruce, and Jimmy L. Frizzell. A visitation will be held from 12-2pm on Friday, January 29 at Jefferson Memorial in Trussville. A Memorial Service will begin at 2pm, with John Mundy officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the American Heart Association or a charity of your choice.

Page 11

655-2095

sports

Keeping Co Community 1st Always

Center Point vs. Shades Valley High School at Center Point Friday, Jan. 29

Springville vs. Hayden High School at Springville Monday, Feb. 1

The Trussville Tribune Jan. 27 - Feb. 2, 2021

Moody vs. Pell City High School at Moody Tuesday, Feb. 2

Off the mark No. 10 Clay-Chalkville tops No. 2 Pinson Valley

By Erik Harris, sports editor

PINSON — After squeezing into the ASWA top-10 poll for the first time last week, the Clay-Chalkville boys basketball team celebrated with its biggest win of the season.

The No. 10-ranked Cougars (13-4, 3-1) defended their home floor on Thursday night, knocking off second-ranked Pinson Valley 59-51. The win comes in Class 6A, Area 12 play and avenges a 61-39 loss to the Indians (15-3, 4-1) on Jan. 7 at Mike Dutton Gymnasium.

After a back-and-forth opening period, ClayChalkville separated a little going into the break thanks to a 16-point second quarter.

Senior point guard Donovan Shangase started the surge with two quick baskets in the second, including an and-1 that put his Cougars out front 1913. They trailed 13-12 when the quarter began.

Shangase would go on to bag a game-high 23 points in the win.

Fellow Clay-Chalkville guard Isaiah Daniel later shot into the paint for a high-arching floater that sent his guys to

Pinson Valley senior Joshua Williams (5) reacts to a missed free throw during a road game at Clay-Chalkville last Thursday. Photo by Erik Harris

the half with a 29-21 advantage.

That 8-point cushion was quickly cut in half after Pinson Valley guards JoJo James and Terry Coner took turns scoring in transition early in the third.

However, the Cougars would regain their footing enough to salvage a 39-34 lead going into the final eight minutes.

James paced the Tribe with 14 points, all of which were scored in the second half. Joshua Williams added 10 points for the visitors.

It was the home team, however, that made the timely shots down the stretch. Shangase started the final period with a step-back triple from the right wing, followed by a Daniel trey from the corner. ClayChalkville had its largest lead at 47-37 with 5:45 remaining.

Pinson Valley would whittle the deficit down to six points twice in the final minutes, but the Cougars kept finding answers. Daniel and Jayden Sweeney worked inside for back-to-back buckets during the final 70 seconds to pull Clay-Chalkville out of reach.

Daniel provided 13 points for the Cougars and Sweeney added 10 to go with Shangase’s 23.

Jon Clements named head football coach at Springville

By Erik Harris, sports editor

SPRINGVILLE — Springville High School has a new head football coach.

After one season out from the head coaching game, Jon Clements is back in the pilot’s seat. The former Corner head man has accepted the same position at Springville, completing his first day at the school last Wednesday.

See HEAD COACH, Page 12

Hewitt strength coach considered best in Alabama

By Erik Harris, sports editor

TRUSSVILLE — The Trussville City School Board on Monday approved an agreement with the city of Trussville in regards to facility usage.

The agreement was put in place to facilitate better understanding after the Trussville lacrosse teams were denied usage of Hewitt-Trussville Stadium.

See WEIGHT ROOM, Page 12

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The Trussville Tribune

Page 12

Jan. 27 - Feb. 2, 2021

Clay-Chalkville girls Pinson’s McKinstry now thump Pinson Valley 59-14 practicing with Alabama PINSON — The ClayChalkville girls basketball team secured the regular season sweep of area rival Pinson Valley last Thursday night.

in Class 6A, Area 12 play.

Thursday’s result follows a 49-23 road win over Pinson Valley in early-January to complete the rivalry sweep.

With the win, ClayChalkville improves to 3-1 in league play with a trip to Gar-

The homestanding Cougars scored the first 32 points of the game and eventually bested the Indians 59-14

dendale up next on Monday night.

The visitors were held scoreless until senior guard

Lauryn Green got one to drop off an inbound play with about one minute remaining in the first half. Her bucket ended a 32-0 Cougar run.

Green would later connect on a mid-range shot to end the first half with Clay-Chalkville leading 32-5.

Cheyenne Pearson was effective inside for the Cougars, eating up offensive rebounds on her way to a game-high 13 points. Tamyia Muse came through with 12 points for Clay-Chalkville and Amani-Moraiyah Dawkins added nine points of her own.

Vonquice Wilson knocked down a pair of first-half 3-pointers, the first of which gave the home team an 18-0 advantage with 1:04 remaining in the first quarter. Her second make stretched the cushion to 27-0 midway through the second.

coach Brandon Herring, who was recently recognized as the Strength Coaches Association State Coach of the Year in Alabama. Head football coach Josh Floyd and Walker were both on hand to congratulated Herring on Monday night. “(Strength and conditioning) is something that is very important to our football program,” said Floyd. “When I came here seven years ago, that was one of the most important things that we tried to instill. Coach Herring has done it for the last few years and he’s done a great job. The main thing I appreciate about him is he’s a student of it; he keeps learning. He’s an expert in his field and we’re luck to have him.”

“One thing that’s impressive about this award to me, coming from the national

strength coaches association, is that he was nominated by his peers, so I think it just shows how much respect he has around our state and around our country,” said Walker.

Herring works with many students across Trussville schools, including football players, softball players and track athletes. Now in his third year with the program, Herring believes his athletes are beginning to blossom both in the weight room and on their various fields of play.

“It’s just now getting to a point to where we want it to be,” said Herring. “Strength and conditioning is a marathon, not a sprint. It takes some time and I think we’re starting to bear some fruit from what we’re doing—our injury rates have plummeted.”

By Erik Harris, sports editor

Weight Room From page 11

TCS Superintendent Pattie Neill says the decisions regarding facility usage will be made by several individuals, including school principals, coaches, athletics director Lance Walker, facilities coordinator Barry Davis and more.

“Who are the decision makers,” Neill asked. “It’s the whole team. It’s our whole team. It’s all of us.”

Those individuals will have to sign off on usage requests in order to grant access to different school facilities, including Hewitt-Trussville Stadium, the HTHS auditorium, classrooms, gyms and more.

On Monday, the school board also recognized Hewitt-Trussville strength

basketball team

By Erik Harris, sports editor

TUSCALOOSA — According to reports, former Pinson Valley standout Ga’Quincy McKinstry began practicing with the Alabama basketball team late last week.

Longtime Tuscaloosa News sportswriter Cecil Hurt says the early enrollee spent Friday working with the Crimson Tide’s scout team.

McKinstry was on hand, but did not dress out on Saturday evening when Mississippi State visited Coleman Coliseum.

Alabama’s 81-73 victory extended an eight-game winning streak, which has them sitting at No. 9 in the latest AP poll. Second-year head coach Nate Oats has his team (13-3, 8-0) atop the Southeastern Conference standings with 11 games remaining.

The team was coming off consecutive 30-point victories over LSU and Arkansas, and had scored 85 points or more in five straight games leading up to Saturday’s tilt.

Head Coach From page 11

Clements, 36, says the timing just worked out for the move, as his wife works in St. Clair County.

“I think there’s something really cool over here,” he said. “It reminds me a lot of Corner and it reminds me a lot of where I’m from.”

Clements, 36, most recently served as an assistant on the St. Clair County staff last year after two seasons as head coach at Corner. He led

Pinson Valley then-junior Ga’Quincy McKinstry handles the ball during a road game last season. File photo

McKinstry would add tremendous athleticism to an already talented Alabama roster. The Pinson Valley senior was recently named Mr. Football by the Alabama Sports Writers Association.

The honor is presented annually to the most outstanding high school football player in

the state, regardless of classification.

McKinstry is considered a 5-star football prospect and the No. 1 cornerback prospect in the 2021 cycle. He also stood out for the Indians’ basketball team, notching multiple all-state seasons under head coach Darrell Barber

the Yellow Jackets to a 13-9 record and two playoff appearances during the 2019-18 seasons. This will be his second stop as a head coach.

Clements takes over for former Springville coach Michael Graben, who posted an 11-18 record in three seasons (2018-20) with the Tigers. Last year, Graben led Springville through the program’s first season in Class 6A play. The Tigers finished up at 4-5, narrowly missing a playoff bid coming out of Region 7.

Clements says he’s already watched every Springville game from last season. He had about 90 kids show up for his first day at the school.

“There’s a lot of good pieces coming back,” said Clements. “The offensive line should be really good again, which was the strength of our team at Corner.”

Clements also has multiple years of experience as an offensive coordinator at both Pinson Valley and ClayChalkville.

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