The Trussville Tribune – Feb. 28 - Mar. 5, 2024

By Chris Basinger

See DANCE, Page 5

Explosive device detonated outside Alabama Attorney General office

From Tribune staff reports

MONTGOMERY — An explosive device was detonated outside of the Alabama Attorney General’s Office in Montgomery early Saturday morning, according to a statement released Monday by Attorney General Steve Mar-

Argo honors Firefighter of the Year

By Terry Schrimscher

Argo — The Argo City Council and the Argo Fire Department honored Matthew Griffith as Firefighter of the Year, Monday night February 26. The award was presented during the regular meeting of the Council which began with a work session at 5 p.m.

Chief Scott Payne presented the award to Griffith

See ARGO, Page 3

Trussville City Council passes resolution that aims to increase school funding

By Chris Basinger Staff Writer

TRUSSVILLE — The Trussville City Council unanimously approved a resolution during Thursday’s meeting that paves the way for a potential millage rate increase, with voter approval, to fund school projects.

Trussville City Schools Superintendent Dr. Patrick Martin proposed the 12.9 millage rate increase during his State of the Schools address last month, saying that 100% of the new funds generated by the increase would go toward three projects.

Those include a new elementary school at Glendale Farms, expansions and a new 15,000-square-foot cafeteria at Hewitt-Trussville Middle School, and the addition of a C-Wing at Hewitt-Trussville High School.

The projects look to accommodate growing enrollment in TCS as existing buildings hit student capacity and fall in line with the city’s

2040 plan. This resolution also follows the TCS Board of Education’s approval of a resolution for the city council

to request a city-wide ad valorem vote for the proposed funding.

At the council meeting, Martin said, “We feel that

these are three critical projects. Our school system continues to grow. When Mag-

Springville and Moody benefit from Alabama’s first SEEDS grant

From Tribune staff reports

ST CLAIR COUNTY –

The cities of Springville and Moody will receive a combined $2.5 million dollars as part of a statewide grant project announced by Governor Kay Ivey on Monday, February 26. The Site Evaluation and Economic Development Strategy Act (SEEDS) was passed by the legislature last year as part of the governor’s Game Plan package of economic development bills.

“SEEDS represents an important tool that will allow us to keep winning those economic development projects that trigger lasting impacts for Alabama citizens,” said Governor Ivey. “The awarding of the first grants under the program represents a milestone in our efforts to make sure Alabama remains competitive for game-changing growth projects.”

“I want to thank Governor Kay Ivey and the State Legislators, especially Senator Lance Bell and Representative Jim Hill, for their foresight and determination to help the smaller communities

in Alabama reach our full potential,” said Mayor Joe Lee of Moody. “This grant will help us overcome the final missing piece of our puzzle to provide a commerce park where the citizens of Moody and surrounding communities can find gainful employment.”

The City of Moody will receive $407,902 in grant

MARTY’S TRUSSVILLE

funding to help fund extending sewer infrastructure into the recently developed Kelly Creek Commerce Park. Plans for the commerce park were approved in March of last year.

Last October, the Springville City Council approved a cooperative agreement with St. Clair County to purchase and develop Riley

Farm Commerce Park, the first rail-served commerce part in the county. The property is located near the WalMart interchange on I-59.

The partnership between Springville and St. Clair County received $2.1 million from the SEEDS grant to assist in the purchase of the

See SEEDS, Page 3

approved a tax abatement of five years for C&B Piping to construct a new building on Parkway Drive during a meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 20.

See LEEDS, Page 5

Moody Council hears from candidates, approves ditch drainage project

By Nathan Prewett

For the Tribune

MOODY – The Moody City Council heard from candidates running for the county commission and for congress before approving a ditch and drainage project during a brief meeting on Monday, Feb. 26.

Drug trafficking arrest in Leeds lands man in jail with $1.7 million bond

From Tribune staff reports

LEEDS — A lengthy investigation by detectives with the Leeds Police Department landed a Jefferson County man in jail charged with multiple counts of drug trafficking and additional charges, according to Chief Paul Irwin.

See ARREST, Page 3

See MARSHALL, Page 3

See MOODY, Page 5

See SCHOOLS, Page 4

Fishing Champ Page 15

Paul DeMarco Page 7

Hewitt-Trussville High School photo courtesy of Trussville City Schools Contributed. Alabama Dept. of Commerce.

safely navigate life after joint replacement and enjoy it to the fullest. Let’s explore the importance of staying active after joint replacement, dif-

ferent ways to do so, and essential precautions to ensure a smooth recovery journey.

Understanding Joint Replacement

Before we delve into staying active, let's take a moment to understand why joint replacements, particularly of the hip and knee, become necessary. These joints are crucial for our mobility, allowing us to walk, run, and move freely. Over time, wear and tear or conditions like arthritis can damage these joints, leading to pain and reduced function.

The hip and knee are complex joints with various components working together seamlessly. In a hip re-

placement, the damaged hip joint is replaced with an artificial one, usually made of metal and plastic. Similarly, knee replacement involves replacing the damaged knee joint surfaces with metal and plastic components.

The Best Ways to Stay Active After Joint Replacement After recovering from joint replacement surgery, it's important to engage in activities that promote strength, flexibility, and overall well-being. Many of the activities you loved before chronic joint pain are waiting for you after recovery. From gardening and bowling to fishing and danc-

ing in the kitchen, the world can be yours again. Below, there are some more ways to get active and stay active.

Walking: Walking is an excellent low-impact exercise that helps improve cardiovascular health and strengthens the muscles around the replaced joint. Start with short walks and gradually increase the duration as your endurance improves.

Swimming: Swimming and water aerobics provide a buoyant and supportive environment, reducing stress on the joints. This makes it an ideal exercise for joint replacement patients. It also

See ORTHO, Page 4

Arrest

From front page

Police in Leeds served an arrest warrant on Dimarcus Desean Hodge, 31, of Jefferson County on Wednesday. Leeds officers along with officers from Irondale and Birmingham also executed a search warrant in the 1500 Block of Cooper Hill Road in reference to the narcotics investigation.

After a short foot pursuit, Hodge was taken into custody without incident.

SEEDS

From front page property, which is expected to bring as many as 1500 jobs to the area once completed.

Speaking to the Trussville Tribune, Springville Mayor Dave Thomas talked about the potential of the development.

“The SEEDS program was originally only created for infrastructure and then they changed the rules to allow for acquisition,” Thomas said. “That saves a million dollars for us and another million for the county.”

Thomas said he expects the city and county to apply for another SEEDS grant in the future to help with infrastructure on the project.

Marshall

From front page shall’s office.

“In the early hours of Saturday, February 24, an explosive device was detonated outside of the Alabama Attorney General’s Office building in Montgomery,” Marshall said. “Thankfully, no staff or personnel were injured by the explosion.”

“I am very proud of our department for their motivation and pursuit of individuals who are committing criminal activity,” Irwin said while thanking neighboring agencies. “Anyone who is committing criminal activity and it touches our city the investigators work diligently to bring them to justice.”

While executing the search warrant, detectives located and seized approximately 4.5 pounds of methamphetamine, approximately

“When it’s fully built out, they’re talking about 1500 jobs, potentially,” Thomas said. “That’s not all at the commerce park but it includes the economic impact of the park. That’s huge! We are focusing on projects that have a generational impact,” he added.

“We are delighted that two of our sites in St. Clair County were selected and thankful to Governor Ivey and the State Legislators. We also want to thank Mayor Lee and Mayor Thomas for their dedication to providing new job opportunities in their communities,” said Stan Batemon, Chairman of the St. Clair County Commission. “These two commerce parks, like those in

Marshall did not offer any details about the type of device used or damage caused by the explosion.

“The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency will be leading the investigation, and we are urging anyone with information to contact them immediately,” Marshall said.

To report any information, contact ALEA at (334) 6767890.

36 grams of Fentanyl, one handgun, two AR-style pistols, cash, and drug paraphernalia, Irwin said.

Hodge is charged with five counts of drug trafficking, certain persons forbidden to possess a firearm, attempting to elude, and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia with a total bond of $1,716,000.

He is currently incarcerated in the Jefferson County Jail. Irwin said further charges are pending at this time.

Steele and Pell City, will be beneficial to all the citizens of the surrounding communities by providing good job opportunities,” Batemon added.

A total of $30.1 million in SEEDS funding will be matched with $38.4 million in local funds at 29 different industrial sites encompassing nearly 8,400 acres according to a release from the Governor’s office. The program was initially funded with $40 million and requires local matching funds. The grants were open to all communities in the state seeking to develop or evaluate industrial property, purchase property for industrial use or upgrade infrastructure for industrial development.

Argo

From front page

during the work session.

“The city of Argo would like to expressing gratitude and appreciation to Matthew Griffith for his service,” said Mayor Betty Bradley. “Thank you for the job that you do in the city, she added. “He has given selflessly in support of the department, the fire service in general and the community,” said Bradley speaking to the Trussville Tribune. “The Fire Department, as a whole, does such an excellent job working together as a team and taking care of the citizens.”

The Council entered new items to the agenda during the pre-meeting work session. One item was the purchase of

three new Ford F-150 trucks.

The total for the purchase was $146,651.40.

Funds for the trucks came from American Rescue Plan funds allocated to the city. The Council approved up to $200,000 for the purchase to allow for added equipment.

“Due to Vehicle shortages that were expected in 2024, cities have found themselves in a balancing act of maintaining current vehicles while trying to purchase new vehicles,” Bradley said.

“I am thankful to the Argo city council for approving the purchase of the three new vehicles, two for the police department and one for the fire chief. With the purchase of these new vehicles the city hopes to offset some of the high maintenance cost on

older vehicles,” Bradley added. “The new police vehicles will further bolster our police department’s ability to serve our citizens and make Argo an even safer place to live and visit.”

Council member Rick Hopkins confirmed the Argo Fall Festival is set for October 19. The next regular meeting of the Argo council is scheduled for March 11 with a work session at 5 p.m. and the regular meeting following immediately after the session. An agenda for each meeting is posted in local businesses including Hill Top Farms, Argo Hardware, Liberty Automotive, Shell, Southland BBQ, Fox’s Pizza and Buckeye Grocery. Agendas are also posted on the city’s Facebook page.

Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall speaks during a luncheon of the Trussville Area Chamber of Commerce.

Matthew Griffith was honored as Argo Firefighter of the Year. Photo courtesy City of Argo.

nolia and Cahaba elementary schools were opened in 2015, 2016 we had just over 4,500 students, today we have 5,008. That’s a net gain of 500 students since those two buildings were opened and we think that we’ll continue to see growth.”

“We have the largest elementary school in the state of Alabama with 1,350 kids. The closest is 350 less,” Mayor Buddy Choat added.

Currently, the millage rate in Trussville is 62.1, so this proposed increase would bring the rate up to 75.

If approved by voters, annual property taxes would increase by about $129 for a home valued at $100,000 and by $645 for a home valued at $500,000.

Choat went on to say, “This is not a done deal. I don’t think there’s a more fair way to do it than to let the citizens tell us what they want,” Choat said.

“The five of us are not voting on a yes or no on a tax. We are deciding to give the citizens the ability to vote

on the future of the city,” Council Member Ben Short later added.

The referendum for the millage rate increase must first be approved by the Alabama State Legislature before it can be placed on the local ballot later this year.

In other council business: The council voted unanimously to appoint Jeremy Culwell to the Parks & Recreation Board, replacing Dave Blount, with his term ending Feb. 28, 2028.

• The council agreed to table an ordinance that would deannex the undeveloped 431 Pineview Road Property until the council could get more information on the process.

• The council unanimously approved a resolution to endorse an Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) resurfacing project on Gadsden Highway.

• The council voted unanimously to approve a resolution declaring civic center chairs as surplus.

enhances flexibility and muscle strength.

Cycling: Cycling, particularly on a stationary bike, is a great way to improve joint mobility and strengthen the leg muscles without putting excessive strain on the joints. Adjust the resistance according to your comfort level.

Yoga: Yoga promotes flexibility, balance, and relaxation. Choose gentle yoga poses that focus on stretching and strengthening the muscles around the hip or knee. Always inform your instructor about your joint replacement surgery to receive appropriate modifications.

Strength Training: Incorporate light strength training exercises to build muscle around the replaced joint. Leg lifts, squats, and resistance band exercises are beneficial. Start with low resistance and gradually increase as you feel comfortable.

Golf: Golf is a recreational activity that involves walking and controlled movements. Start with putting and short swings, gradually progressing to longer swings. Ensure proper technique and use a golf cart if needed.

Low-Impact Aerobics: Low-impact aerobics class-

es are designed to be gentle on the joints while providing a good cardiovascular workout. Look for classes specifically tailored to joint replacement patients.

Stationary Rowing: Using a rowing machine provides a full-body workout without putting excessive stress on the replaced joint. It helps improve cardiovascular health, strength, and endurance.

Pilates: Pilates focuses on core strength, flexibility, and controlled movements. Modified Pilates exercises can be adapted for joint replacement patients to enhance overall body strength.

Tai Chi: Tai chi is a gentle, low-impact martial art that emphasizes flowing movements and balance. It can help improve stability, flexibility, and overall joint function.

Remember to always consult with your healthcare provider or physical therapist before starting any new exercise routine. They can provide guidance on which activities are most suitable for your specific condition and help ensure a safe and effective recovery. Additionally, listen to your body and progress gradually to avoid overexertion.

Preventing Injuries and Complications

While joint replacement surgeries are generally safe,

it's essential to be aware of potential complications. Common complications include infection, blood clots, and implant issues. Additionally, there's a risk of dislocation after hip replacement and limited range of motion after knee replacement.

The good news is that many complications can be prevented with proper care and attention. Here are some key tips to help you stay active while minimizing risks.

Follow Your Rehabilitation Plan: Your healthcare team will provide a rehabilitation plan tailored to your needs. Stick to this plan to ensure a gradual and safe recovery. Start Slowly: Begin with gentle exercises, like walk-

ing and simple stretches. Avoid high-impact activities initially.

Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to any pain or discomfort. If you experience persistent pain, consult your healthcare provider.

Avoid Overexertion: While staying active is crucial, it's equally important not to overdo it. Gradually increase the intensity and duration of your activities.

Maintain a Healthy Weight: Excess weight puts added stress on your joints. Adopt a balanced diet to maintain a healthy weight and reduce strain on your replaced joint.

Staying active after joint replacement is not only possible, but it is highly encouraged for a better quality of life. By understanding the anatomy of your replaced joint, being aware of potential complications, and taking preventive measures, you can start your journey toward increased mobility and improved well-being.

Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new exercise routine, and remember that patience is key. With the right mindset and a commitment to your recovery, you'll be well on your way to enjoying an active and fulfilling life after joint replacement. Here's to your health and all the fun you have ahead of you!

Contributed

Dance

From front page

All proceeds from this year’s gala will be donated to I’m a Dancer Against Cancer, UAB Neuro-Oncology, and local families battling cancer, according to organizer Emily Lombardo.

“It was a great night for young and old, all in the name of coming together as a community to raise money for those battling cancer and for cancer research,” Lombardo wrote.

650 community members attended the sold-out event to see dancers from Miss Kelley’s School of Dance, Hewitt-Trussville Middle School, and the HTHS Highsteppers showcase their talent to the community.

Leeds

From front page

Before approving the resolution for the abatement the council went into executive session but returned shortly afterwards and heard from C&B Piping President Stephen Gables and Vice President of Operations Blake Williams.

C&B Piping supplies ductile piping systems, focusing primarily on the water and wastewater industry. Gables said that the company is a family-owned business that was established 38 years ago and has operations outside of Alabama.

C&B acquired the property on 8771 Parkway Drive in order to construct a building to accommodate its excess production in Leeds.

“We just don’t have enough room,” said Williams. “We want to be able to do more, and we also do carbon steel and stainless steel fabrication. And we have a growing market for those products and we do not have enough space to scale those at the level that our customers are asking us.”

This year’s “Crowd Favorite” was the Miss Kelley’s aged 5-7 class dancers’ performance of “Pink” choreographed and taught by Emily Adkins and Tiffany Bridges.

“This facility will allow us to do much more jobs on carbon and stainless steel piping systems and will add to our space to be able to make more ductile pipe as well.”

The cost of construction is $13,650,000.

The council passed the abatement in a 5-1 vote, with Councilman Eric Turner being the sole “no” vote. He later explained to the Trussville Tribune that while he personally approved of the abatement, there was a member from the Birmingham Business Alliance or BBA who was present at the last meeting and expressed their support for it.

He said that the BBA had once employed a man who spoke at a past council meeting, who was afterwards alleged by a city employee to have used homophobic remarks. According to Turner, he was told to apologize but refused to, leading to him being fired and so Turner voted against the abatement.

During public comments Farest Hartsfield asked about the status of what he said was an illegal building on Mounta-

Following the youth dancers’ performances, the “dance dads” put on a show of their own to “Supermodel” which garnered rave reviews.

inview Lane that was subject to litigation in 2020. Miller said that there was an appeal made and that the building remains in litigation and that it is “out of the [city’s] hands” until a decision is made from the circuit court.

Hartsfield asked if there was any indication of how much longer the matter would be, to which Miller replied that he did not know.

The council also passed a resolution to participate in a proposal by Heidelberg Materials to apply for a grant from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to reduce the plant’s fossil fuel usage.

Heidelberg Materials maintains a plant in Leeds that produces Portland cement, which relies on mining and processing 1.05 million tons of limestone, producing a rated clinker capacity of 772,000 tons per year.

“We met with Heidelberg,” said Mayor David Miller. “It will include funds to locate alternative fuels that are more environmentally friendly and won’t cost the city anything. It’ll actually benefit the city.”

Heidelberg seeks to use the

The gala also featured speakers including Keisha Limbaugh, a cancer caregiver, Lori Mills, a breast cancer survivor, and Gracie Bramblette, the artistic vice president of Dancers Against Cancer Trussville.

Along with receiving donations, the group auctioned off beach condos, hotel stays, diamond earrings from Agnew Jewelers, Husky seats for Hewitt-Trussville High School football games, a night on the Accent Limo party bus, photography sessions, and many more items from local businesses, according to Lombardo.

Trussville City Council Member Alan Taylor, who emceed the event, said, “The night was all about community.”

funds to implement an alternative fuels receiving, handling and dosing project, as well as a carbon capture and storage system. The council passed the resolution unanimously.

Additionally, the council heard from Yashiba Blanchard, who is running for Jefferson County Probate Judge, Place 1. She spoke about some of the goals in her platform, among them being expediating case hearings and education on voting and absentee ballots.

In other business, the council:

• Granted a liquor license to Guerro Mexican Grill. Approved buying a replacement fire truck for $1,049,928 in a purchasing process that will take four years. Meetings are held on the first and third Mondays of every month at City Hall on 1400 9th Street Northeast.

Agenda packets can be seen online at the City of Leeds website.

Nathan Prewett can be reached at nthomasp6@ gmail.com.

Moody

From front page

First to speak was Joey Stevens, who is running for St. Clair County Commission Place 3. He spoke about infrastructure being a part of his platform, noting Moody’s business growth with two new restaurants settling in the city.

He said that he would like to see a “greater” level of cooperation between the cities and the county regarding infrastructure. He mentioned the 4% gas tax, believing that Moody should be able to share in this revenue.

“If we don’t’ have infrastructure it’s going to be hard to grow,” he said. “And we’ve got to make sure that our infrastructure keeps pace with the level of growth we’re seeing, whether it’s roads, bridges and I think broadband’s important. We have to continue to pursue those things and stay on top of those items.”

Next was Bryan Newell, a retired military serviceman who is running for the third congressional district of Alabama as a republican. Newell criticized his opponent, Mike Rogers, who currently represents the district, particularly for sponsoring the National Defense Authorization Act.

He said that he would campaign to defund CRT, DEI, sex reassignment surgeries, and abortion travels for service members.

“We have a house full of career politicians that have no leadership abilities and no passion for the solutions for the problems that they have created,” he said.

Sometime afterwards, the council approved the resolution for a dich and drainage project on Stuart Drive Road. This is a joint venture with Odenville, which has property nearby.

The resolution was approved for a cost not to exceed $45,000 and was funded with money from the Rebuild

When the power goes out, you don’t have to!

Alabama Act.

Additionally, the council approved the voting delegates for the Annual Convention of the Alabama League of Municipalities on May 17. The delegate includes Mayor Joe Lee as first alternate, with mayor pro-temp Linda Crowe and Councilman Lynn Taylor as second alternate.

In other business the council:

• Approved a request from Police Chief Reece Smith for lodging expenses not to exceed $700 for an officer to attend a critical incident training in March, Approved a request from Parks and Recreation Department Director Mike Staggs to renew the annual RecDesk subscription for $4,700,

• Approved Staggs’ request to replace two front desk computers and one office computers for a cost not to exceed $3,500,

• Approved Staggs’ request to purchase four metal picnic tables for the park for a cost not exceed $3,800,

• Approved a request from Fire Chief Larry Horton to purchase and install a bed slide for the fire marshals for $3,000 and Granted $500 for the Moody schools’ participation in the upcoming Special Olympics Programs on April 5.

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

Nathan Prewett can be reached at nthomasp6@ gmail.com.

Mayor Joe Lee and members of the Council. Photo by Nathan Prewett.

The Miss Kelley’s aged 5-7 class dancers’ performance of “Pink” was named as this year's “Crowd Favorite.” Photos courtesy of Stephanie Benzaia and Amy Blount.

By Ken Lass

To the surprise of absolutely no one, the recent Super Bowl, better known as the Taylor Swift Bowl, was the most watched program in the history of television in America. An average of 125 million households had the game on. If you figure most of those TV sets had multiple people watching, it means over half of every living, breathing American human being, from infant through senior citizen, saw at least part of the game.

The ratings obliterated the previous record by over eight million households. No doubt this was due in large part to an influx of Swifties who tuned in, not to see the Chiefs play the 49ers, but to revel in every cutaway shot of Taylor Swift in her sky box. The global popularity of the 35-year-old performer has reached epic proportion. Beyond sold out concerts and soaring sales of her music, Taylor’s mere presence at an event makes it a worldwide news item.

I like Taylor Swift, even if she has evolved into a bit of an oversexualized girl next door. Her songs are catchy, she’s a talented on-stage artist, it’s certainly understandable why teenage girls want to look like her and boys are attracted to her. The camera loves her. Media people of all genres are captivated by her every woman charm. Maybe a little too captivated. I was watching a sports talk show the other day when one of the commentators boldly stated, “Taylor Swift is bigger now than the Beatles were in their prime.”

Whoa! That’s going too far! Hearing that made me feel called upon to speak up

for my entire baby boomer generation! (Slight pause here. Takes me a little longer these days to climb up on my soap box.) Clearly this thirty-something sports analyst was not alive in the 1960’s. Taylor Swift is an enormously talented and popular entertainer. The Beatles changed the world. Several times. John, Paul, George, and Ringo redefined the culture. Prior to their arrival in the States in

1964, it was unheard of for a man to wear his hair over the top of his ear lobe. The Beatles’ “mop top” hair style made long hair, even ridiculously long hair, acceptable and often preferable. Even our parents succumbed to their influence. Watch a Lawrence Welk rerun from the 1970’s. You may be shocked to see even his band members had long hair. The Beatles did that. You are hard-pressed today to see an adult man who

doesn’t have facial hair of some sort. Moustaches and full beards are the norm. The Beatles made that happen. They destroyed the predominant clean-cut look when they started showing up on record albums and music videos with shaggy, hairy faces to match their shaggy, hairy hair.

Beatlemania shifted the capital of contemporary music from the USA to England and spawned an intense inter-

est in all things British and European. Americans wanted to speak with a British accent. American performers all but disappeared from the pop charts in the wake of the “British invasion”. The Dave Clark Five, the Rolling Stones, Herman’s Hermits, the Hollies, the Searchers, the Animals, the Kinks, and so many more British bands followed on the coattails of the Beatles’ breakthrough. Their debut on the Ed Sulli-

van show made every teenage boy, including me, want to learn to play the guitar and perform in a rock band. They are credited with causing the decline of the 45-rpm record, making the larger album record more popular because fans couldn’t get enough of their music.

When the members of the group began studying under the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, the entire world took a renewed interest in far eastern religion. They caused sales of Nehru jackets, medallions and bell bottom pants to skyrocket. They had their own Saturday morning cartoon show. Paul and Ringo were knighted by the Queen.

Perhaps most telling, more than fifty years after the group broke up, there are hundreds, maybe thousands, of Beatles tribute bands thriving today. I’ve attended concerts by two of them. I saw Liverpool Legends at the Lyric Theater in Birmingham, and Rain at the Birmingham Jefferson concert hall. The events were jam packed with fans of all ages. Their music is as popular as ever, even though half the band has long ago passed away. I wonder how many Taylor Swift tribute performers there will be fifty years from now.

Maybe I’m too far removed from the mainstream, but I just don’t see Taylor having the same kind of earth-altering impact. She surely belongs up there with superstars like Michael Jackson and Prince. The Beatles are in a league of their own. Okay, maybe Elvis, too. I won’t be surprised if history best remembers Taylor Swift as that girl who used to date Travis Kelce.

Ken Lass, Tribune columnist

Major legislation passed by Alabama Senate overshadowed by gambling bills

By Paul DeMarco

The Alabama Legislature can actually chew gum and walk at the same time, but nobody seemed to care this past week. With the Alabama House of Representatives passage of a constitutional amendment and a bill to set forth the details to legalize gambling in the state, that is all anyone has been talking about in Mont-

gomery and beyond. For decades, the debate over gaming has consumed hours at the statehouse, but has only made it to the ballot once, when Alabama voters rejected a state lottery in 1999.

However, last week the state representatives pushed through the legislation on the sixth legislative day with very little effort despite the strong criticism from conservative

groups. Thus, it was what has gotten all of the attention from the activities in the state capital. Yet, while their counterparts were moving quickly to pass the gambling bills, the Alabama Senate was approving legislation promised by state leaders.

Bills passed by the Senate including:

• Penalizing the efforts to il-

legally collect and tamper with absentee ballots

• Provide municipal authorities the ability to terminate appointed members of library boards

• Confirm that reading material in K- 12 schools is age appropriate Require schools to give parents the ability to view the curriculum being taught their students

Those bills will now be considered by the Alabama House of Representatives and if they end up being signed into law by Governor Kay Ivey then there will be a lot of folks happy with the work of lawmakers.

The problem for State Senators is with gambling getting all the headlines, their good work for the citizens of the state is getting overshadowed.

And if the constitutional amendment to legalize gambling is approved by both chambers of the Legislature, no one will even remember the good work Senators have accomplished so early in the session.

Paul DeMarco is a former member of the Alabama House of Representatives and can be found on X formerly Twitter at @Paul_DeMarco

B usiness

Potentially Changing Economic Seasons

By David R. Guttery, RFC, RFS, CAM President, Keystone Financial Group-Trussville Al

Within my last article, I outlined the reasons for my optimism as we began the new year. Today, I’m going to continue that discussion as it pertains to changing economic seasons.

On several occasions over the previous years, I have drawn reference to an image of the economic cycle. I saw this for the first time when I was in school 37 years ago, and throughout the duration of my career, I cannot remember a time when this hasn’t been a valuable tool for portfolio construction.

I have encouraged clients to think of this cycle in terms of seasons. Starting at the left of the chart, we emerge into economic spring, and then into economic summer, fall, winter, and ultimately back into economic spring at the far right of the graphic.

I suggest that clients consider how their behavior is incentivized by how they feel. When it’s cold outside, as it is now, you’re more likely to wear jeans and jackets, and find yourself spending more time indoors, and probably in front of a fire. During periods of economic summer, when it’s 98° outside, you’re probably not wearing jeans and jackets.

At such times, you’re incentivized to wear short sleeve shirts, shorts, and rather than being in front of the

fire, you are most likely at the beach or on the lake.

Likewise, economic cycles, or seasons, will incentivize your consumption behavior as well. During periods of economic winter, you are more likely to focus on things that you need, including food, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, utilities, and other durable staple kinds of items.

However, during economic summer, when discretionary income is plentiful, you will likely consume greater amounts of products and services that you don’t necessarily need. We can get a sense of where we are in the economic cycle by observing levels of consumer confidence, and other metrics that we can use to gauge the attitudes of

consumers. This is important because consumption is 70% of GDP. If you feel poor, then patterns of consumption will likely reflect that sentiment.

Returning to the analogy, that economic groundhog has seen his shadow for the last four years. This has been an extended “El Nino” period of economic winter, and we have adjusted our portfolios tactically. But now I sense that attitudes are changing, and the temperature is feeling warmer, so I do believe we are emerging into economic spring at this point.

A few months ago, I offered my thoughts about pervasively palpable negative sentiment, and how that can influence asset prices. In my opinion, is this beginning to

wane. To demonstrate this point, let me offer some insight into myself that may also resonate with many of you

Although I have never been diagnosed with light deprivation syndrome, I can tell you that in the winter months, when there is increasingly less daylight, I can become somewhat cranky. It becomes even worse when that is accompanied by weeks of overcast, gloomy and gray skies.

At some point however we get a break in the clouds. Imagine how much better you feel when you look up and finally see the sun peeking through the clouds, with that beautiful blue sky in the background. It may still be

30° outside, but the return of sunshine can quickly change the way you feel after several days of gloomy overcast skies. Right now, it is my belief that 2024 could bring a welcome relief from four years of overcast skies, and a positive repricing of risk. In my opinion, the market has worried about many things that have just not come to fruition, or may have come to fruition in a much more docile manner than previously feared.

For example, the average consumer may not fully appreciate this yet, but the data over the last 15 months indicates that inflation has been declining at a faster rate than the degree by which our incomes were rising at a declining rate. In other words, our capacity to consume has been consistently less negative, every month, for almost the last year and a half.

From the perspective of financial physics, if inflationary pressures have been

abating consistently over time, then at some point I would expect to see a corresponding improvement in the sentiment of the average consumer. Again, back to the sunlight after a long period of overcast skies analogy. This is important because if you’re feeling better about your economic disposition, then at some point that will translate into improving patterns of consumption, and thus better than expected earnings and revenues from the companies that manufacture the items being purchased in greater quantities. So, tracking consumer sentiment is tactically important.

Indeed, since November 2022, according to the University of Michigan and their consumer confidence survey, we have observed confidence rising gradually. Now for reference, the reading observed in November 2022 was a historic low point for this index. Since the inception of this metric, the average consum-

er had never felt more-dour about their ability to consume.

So, while we have improved tremendously since then, we still have a long way to go. But from a tactical management perspective, it is the observation of data such as this that leads us to believe that now would be an opportune time to begin gradually shifting the focus of our portfolios away from being heavily defensive, to incorporating a greater degree of growth assets that typically prosper during periods of economic summer.

From a tactical perspective, when it comes to managing portfolios, the duration and frequency of the distress event can be an impediment when it comes to encouraging clients to be patient, and make such periods of distress work for their benefit. So, how do we accomplish this?

Well, as Rudyard Kipling wrote in his poem, If, my clients are depending on me to keep my head about me when all those around me are losing theirs. Said another way, my clients are depending on me to be this guy.

As a product agnostic, fiduciary manager of wealth, I serve my clients in a number of ways. In this case, I must

205.601.5116

be that stoic jet fighter pilot on vacation as we ride yet another scary roller coaster. Across the 33 years of my career, I have ridden many of these things, and I know we are the gift shop is located. I know how this ride ends.

Rather than be persuaded by pervasively negative and palpable sentiment, I must be stoically disciplined as I help clients wade through the fog of that sentiment, to determine whether there is anything rational supporting it. If not, then such periods of time create opportunities. As Warren Buffett said, be greedy when others are fearful.

Well, it’s impossible to be greedy when others are fearful, if you are running with a herd of lemmings. Significant periods of disruption, that are long in both

Legal Notice

frequency and duration, can foster panic driven, herd of lemmings mentality. I have to be able to discern fact from fiction, and help clients manage volatility to the degree possible, and to take advantage of opportunities when available, through dispassionate, and tactical management of their accounts.

We accomplish this with proactive, and frequent communication, and with an intentional deep dive, on a quarterly basis, into the mechanics of their portfolio, as we gauge performance against the assumptions made within the governing plan. By doing this, we return the focus to the objectives that we are trying to accomplish as a function of planning goals.

If you agree with me that evidence suggests a changing of economic seasons, then the next question is usually about asset prices that may be undervalued, and when do we think we can expect market valuations to return to normal as we emerge from one season to the next.

Clearly, that is indeed the million-dollar question. And yes, I have an analogy with which to demonstrate my thoughts.

I have encouraged clients

to think of a given stock as being a ball floating on the water. The water is the economic environment that supports the company within its sector. If left to its own devices, the ball will rise as the water rises, and the economic environment becomes more favorable for that company, and its sector. Conversely, the ball will fall if the water level decreases.

Then along comes the metaphorical hand that artificially holds the ball under the water. This hand can take the shape of irrational fears, shocks to the economic system, a Federal Reserve that is more aggressive than anticipated, fears over another round of potential bank failures, geopolitical events, and other things.

The ball is under the water. It shouldn’t be, but it is.

This is when I channel my inner jet fighter pilot on vacation to determine whether or not that hand is rational. Can I translate that to a quantifiable figure on a spreadsheet?

If not, then the question becomes, when does that hand release the ball? When does sentiment dissipate?

I can’t answer that question, but I believe that point of inflection remains in our

In accordance with Chapter 1. Title 39. Code of Alabama. 1975, as amended, notice is hereby given that Blalock Building Company, Inc., Contractor, has completed the Contract for the Career Tech Renovation for HewittTrussville High School located at 6450 Husky Parkway. Trussville, AL 35173 for the State of Alabama and Trussville City Board of Education. Owner(s). and have made request for final settlement of said Contract. All persons having any claim for labor, materials, or otherwise in connection with this project should immediately notify, Lathan Associates Architects. P.C., 300 Chase Park South. Suite 200. Hoover. AL 35244.

Blalock Building Company. Inc. 7309 Gadsden Highway Trussville. AL 35173

future. What I do know is that when the hand releases the ball, it will not remain underwater. It’s financial physics. It will return to the surface where the economic environment supports its valuation. In the past, I have referred to this phenomenon as the uncoiling of a tightly wound spring. We are beginning to see this at the present time.

So, in summary, I do believe that we can quantify a changing of seasons. We can observe attitudes toward consumption that are improving, that seems to be translating into increasingly better patterns of consumption. The Federal Reserve has taken no action in five of the last six meetings. Bond yields may have peaked as a result.

A Stochastic analysis of market behavioral data suggests that Bollinger Bands are being re-drawn. The yield curve inversion that was once 108 basis points, stood at only 20 basis points by the end of last year.

In my opinion, if these trends continue throughout the current year, then it is possible that we could see many of these submerged balls returned to the surface. My job, and that of any holistic manager of wealth, is to do what

can be done to tactically, proactively, and dispassionately allocate client accounts so that they might benefit from this potential change in economic seasons.

(*) David R. Guttery, RFC, RFS, CAM, is a financial advisor, and has been in practice for 32 years, and is the President of Keystone Financial Group in Trussville. David offers products and services using the following business names: Keystone Financial Group – insurance and financial services | Ameritas Investment Company, LLC (AIC), Member FINRA / SIPC – securities and investments | Ameritas Advisory Services – investment advisory services. AIC and AAS are not affiliated with Keystone Financial Group. Information provided is gathered from sources believed to be reliable; however, we cannot guarantee their accuracy. This information should not be interpreted as a recommendation to buy or sell any security. Past performance is not an indicator of future results. Examples are for illustrative purposes only and should not be considered representative of any investment. Investments involve risks, including loss of principal.

cost of electric toothbrushes will range from $10 for a model with replaceable AA batteries to more than $200 for some models with rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, multiple brushing modes, smartphone integrations, and other features. How much are you willing to spend?

Brushing action: Brush heads tend to be either “spinning” (they rotate very fast in one direction, then the other, and bristles may pulsate in

and out) or “sonic” (they vibrate side to side). Both methods are effective and a matter of personal preference.

Electric versus battery: Choose a brush with a builtin rechargeable battery and an electric charging station. They’re much more convenient and cost effective than toothbrushes that use replaceable batteries.

Brushing timer: Since most dentists recommend brushing for two minutes (most adults average about 45 seconds), get an electric toothbrush with a built-in brushing timer – most have them. Some brushes will even split the two minutes onto four 30-second intervals and will notify you when it’s time to switch to a different quadrant of your mouth. Extra features: Most higher-priced electric brushes come with extra features like cleaning modes, pressure sensors, a charge-level display and more. There are even “smart” toothbrushes that connect to a smartphone or tablet via Bluetooth to track brushing habits. What extra features do you want?

Wirecutter, another popular product reviewing service, rates the Oral-B Pro 1000 ($40) as the best electric toothbrush followed by the Philips Sonicare 4100 ($40).

Easier Flossing Tools

Best Electric Toothbrushes

According to Consumer Reports – an independent, nonprofit product testing and research organization – the top electric toothbrushes for 2024 are the Oral-B iO 7 Series ($150); Oral B Genius X 10000 ($200); Bruush Electric Toothbrushes ($95); and the Philips Sonicare ProtectiveClean 6100 ($120). And the top rated low-cost electric toothbrush is the Brightline 86700 ($30).

The New York Times

If flossing has become challenging too, a good alternative to traditional string floss are floss picks. These are disposable plastic-handle tools that have floss threaded onto them, which makes them easier to hold and use. DenTek, Oral-B and others sell packages for a few dollars or check out the Listerine UltraClean Access Flosser, which comes with a toothbrush-like handle for a better reach.

Some other flossing products to consider that are easy on the hands are the WaterPik Power Flosser ($15), which gently vibrates to dislodge embedded food particles be-

tween your teeth. Or consider a water flosser, which use high-pressured pulsating water to remove food particles and plaque and will stimulate your gums in the process. WaterPik offers a variety of water flossing products at prices ranging between $40 and $140, as does Oral Breeze, which offers the Shower Breeze and Quick Breeze water flossers (around $40) that connects directly to your faucet or shower head.

All of these dental care products can also be found at your local pharmacy or retailer that sells personal care items or online.

Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior. org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book.

Meets the second Monday of each month at the Clay Community Center on Old Palmerdale Road at 6 PM. Call 205-317-0948 for information.

Homeschool Hangout: Writing Workshop with Ms. Amanda Wed Feb 28th 1:00pm - 3:00pm

Pinson Public Library (All ages)

Join us for a community gathering of homeschool students. For this month’s Homeschool Hangout we will be having Ms. Amanda in to talk about the process of writing & go through some simple creative writing exercises! We are excited to welcome Ms. Amanda as a local writer within the Pinson community. Homeschool Hangout is a monthly event for homeschool students to learn together, meet new friends, & use resources available at our library.

Storytime for Growin’

Beans: Letter I Fri Mar 1st 10:00am - 11:00am

Pinson Public Library (All ages)

Join us for Storytime for Growin’ Beans with Ms. Allison on Friday, March 1st at 10 AM. Our theme is The Letter I. We’ll read books, have fun, do a craft, & have a snack.

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

Geek Guild: Shrek & Waffles

Fri Mar 1st 4:00pm - 6:00pm

Pinson Public Library (Teens)

RESCHEDULED! New date & time: Friday, March 1st at 4 PM

It’s time for Geek Guild! Bond over your favorite anime, manga, video games, board games, role-playing games, & other general geekery! For February, we will play watch Shrek & enjoy a waffle bar!

Children’s Storytime

Thursday, February 29 9:30am – 10:00am 10:30am - 11:00am

Trussville LBK Auditorium

Join Ms. Alicia for stories, songs, bubble time, and lots of fun! Join Ms. Alicia for stories, songs, bubble time, and lots of fun! The event will be held in the library auditorium every Thursday at 9:30 & 10:30 a.m.

All ages. Every Thursday at 9:30 & 10:30 a.m.

*Themes for the month of February: 2/29: Dogs

Adult Book Club

Saturday, March 02 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Trussville Cahaba Room

An Adult Book Club focusing on books from a variety of genres. From fantasy to contemporary fiction and everything in between, come join us at the library on the first Saturday of every month! Join us for Adult Book Club! Connect with your community and share your thoughts about the books you’ve read. Adult Book Club meets on the first Saturday of each month at 2PM at the library. Contact the Adult Department (205655-2022 or tr.adult@jclc. org) if you need assistance in obtaining books or have any question. Meeting dates and books are listed below.

2024 Dates and Books: March 2nd - The River We Remember by William Kent Krueger

April 6th - Emily Wilde’s

Encyclopedia of Faeries by Heather Fawcett

May 4th - The Seed Keeper by Diane Wilson

June 1st - The Hurricane Wars by Thea Guanzon

Yoga By Nancy

Springville Public Library March 1 Duration: 30 min

Register for 30-minute mat and chair yoga sessions every Friday, at 11:00 (beginner mat w/ chair) and 12:00 (chair only). Participants who have not attended recently are encouraged to speak with Nancy about which session time to attend. Due to limited space, please call 205-467-2339 to ensure that your name is on the registration list for each week.

Muscle Strength & Flexibility Springville Public Library March 1 Duration: 30 min

Adult beginners can focus on strength and flexibility in this muscle training class led by Nancy. Classes will meet every Friday at 11:30 AM. Space is limited; visit the library or call 205-4672339 to register.

Crafty Collective:

Modern Bunny Decor

Adult Craft Night Monday, March 04 5:30pm - 7:30pm

Trussville Parkway Room

Welcome spring by making a bunny out of wood, paint, and glue! Registration is required. Supplies will be provided by the library.

Preschool Storytime

Springville Public Library March 5 Duration: 1 hr

Preschool Storytime is moving to Tuesdays! Join us as Preschool Storytime with Mrs. Shallon! Children will enjoy interactive stories suited for ages 2-5, related crafts, and yummy snacks, as they make new friends and increase literacy.

HEALTH/BEAUTY

Glyn

passed away Thursday, February 15th, 2024 at her residence surrounded by her family. As a Christian, Ann was a lifelong member of several Baptist Churches, the last being Park Avenue Baptist in Moody. She is preceded in death by her parents Walter Bradford and Mary Ruth Smith; first husband, Robert D. Patterson; second husband, Warren Hardin; her brother Julius Lee “Unk” Smith; her sisters Laree Franksain and Jean Wheeles. She is survived by her son Bobby Patterson (Teri); daughters Joy Patterson McKee (Tim), Jeanne Patterson Hughes (Tommy) and Ginger Patterson

Billy Mauldin

september 2, 1934 — february 16, 2024

Bill Mauldin, age 89, passed away at home on Feb. 16, 2024. He was preceded in death by his wife of 41 years, Shirley Spry Mauldin; his mother, Luzelle Lawson Smoak, his father, Ted Mauldin, his stepmother, Mae Cole Mauldin; and his sister, Barbara Robertson. Mr. Mauldin is survived by his sister, Reba (Howard) Marcellis; his four children, Kathy (Buzz) Petsos, Pam (Larry) Harlen, Billy (Bonnie) Mauldin and Lisa (Dan) Guffey; 11 grandchildren, Christina Petsos, Kevin Seedorf, Patti Alday, Sam Pipkin, Brent Mauldin, Brooke Mauldin, Blake Mauldin, Jesse Guffey, Elisha Guffey, Joseph Guffey, Benji Guffey; and several great grandchildren; and a host of other loving family members and friends.

Bill Mauldin was born in Walker County, AL but was a resident of Birmingham and Pinson the majority of his life. He recently relocated to Walker County, for the last 4 months where he resided with his son Billy and his family. He was a member of several local churches throughout his years in Birmingham; Eastlake Cumberland Presbyterian, Huffman Assembly of God, Cathedral of the Cross, LifeChurch and the Healing Place. When unable to attend local church services, he enjoyed the services of Jimmy Swaggart Ministries every Sunday. He retired in 2000 as a wholesale salesman at Ack Electronics of Birmingham. He enjoyed watching college football every Saturday and turned from an Alabama fan to an Auburn fan when his daughter, Lisa attended and graduated from Auburn University. He enjoyed watching local news and western tv shows.

Leonard Lee

november 16, 1954 — february 16, 2024

Beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend Len Lee peacefully passed away in the arms of his wife, Maggie, and daughters, Lauren and Lindsay, on Friday, February 16, 2024 at 7am. He courageously and with a warrior’s

Louise Isley

Billie Lou is survived by Butch Isley (Lynda), Jill Guice (Steve) and Terri Isley along with 17 grandchildren and 35 great-grand

Lou is preceded in death by Clyde Lee (father), Elizabeth Lee (mother), William “Bill” Isley Sr (spouse) and daughter Becki Jones. In lieu of flowers donations can be made in Billie Lou’s name to the Alzheimer’s Association – Alabama Chapter – Birmingham Office.

What to Expect When You Call the Funeral Home

Your first contact with the funeral home director sets the stage for all to come. Here’s what will happen:

First, be prepared to report on whether the coroner or examiner has released the body for transport; the funeral director cannot pick up the body until this happens.

Your funeral director will not press you to make too many funeral service arrangements immediately. You will, however, be asked to provide some basic information about the deceased - full name, basic biographical details, and Social Security number.

Your next step will be contacting family members and making formal funeral arrangements - all of which your funeral director can assist you with. That’s what makes this initial phone call so vital.

Please scan the QR code to read the full article.

205-322-0543

Fort Lee on November 16,

(Eddie)

was born to W.F. (Bill) Lee, Jr. and

and

his

Lee (Warren). He met his wife, Margaret (Maggie)

(Lee) on June 29, 1979 at Birmingham Trust National Bank in Mountain Brook, AL where she worked as an account representative.

told Maggie he lost his bank card as a way to introduce himself. He left the bank with a deposit slip containing her phone number which he kept until the day he died. They were married on July 19, 1980 and welcomed their daughter Lauren Jessica Lee (Lewis) on August 22, 1981, followed by their daughter Lindsay Christine Lee on March 1, 1987. These three women were the loves and light of his life. It is their great honor to have been with him as he passed. On December 12, 2012 Len became a Papa to Lauren’s son, William Dean Lewis. The joy and pride he felt for his grandson was evident to all who knew him.

To know Len was to love him. He was a generous friend, a french fry connoisseur, and he adored the Alabama Crimson Tide along with the St. Louis Cardinals, thanks to his dear friend, Terry Dietrich. He was an avid golfer for many years and very well may have been on the Senior PGA Tour had it not been for Multiple Sclerosis. He spent many hours on the golf course with his father-in-law, Calvin “Pops” Barker and brother in law, Dan McKeever. Len was a born athlete, having played tennis, softball, and ice hockey. He shared his passion for sports with his family, coaching his daughters in soccer and softball. Len loved nothing more than a sharp suit, a new jacket, a new pair of shoes, and a sweater vest. One of his most admirable qualities was his attention to detail. It’s also one of the qualities that made people want to do their best for him. He passed this quality on to both of his daughters, and it has served them well personally and professionally. Len was connected to anyone and everyone you could imagine in all different areas of life. There was nothing he couldn’t make happen and nothing he couldn’t fix.

Len had a special way of loving people. It may not have been expressed in words, but it was always reflected in his actions.

We will ache for his presence, and we will miss him every day.

We would like to acknowledge Len’s love for members of his family – grandchildren – William Lewis, Aubrey Lewis, James T. Lewis; son in law James D. Lewis, brothers in law James (Jimmy) Warren, Steven Barker, and Dan McKeever; sisters in law Sandra McKeever (Barker), Kathy Barker, Beth Floyd, and Carol Lee; nephews – Chris Warren and Jarrod Warren; nieces – Deanah White (Lee), Rhonda White (Steele); great nephews – Andrew Warren, Jackson Warren, and Christian White; great nieces – Arianna White, Julianne Warren, Hannah Warren, Kyndall White, and Karilyn White; and his adored feline friends – Louie, Jack, Flynn, and Simon.

The family would like to express their immense gratitude to Alabama Oncology and Dr. Benjamin Jones for his unwavering dedication to Len and his care. Donations made in Len’s name to the American Cancer Society and the MS Foundation are greatly appreciated.

Raymond Vaugh an, Sr.

july 7, 1935 — february 15, 2024

Raymond Vaughan, Sr., 88, beloved Husband, Son, Father, Brother, Uncle and Grandfather, was called to his eternal resting place on February 15, 2024. He entered this world on July 7, 1935 in Pell City, AL, born to Roscoe and Annie Vaughan. He is preceded in death by his first wife of 35 years and the mother of his four children, Margaret Mary Vaughan, his daughters, Mary Ann Pagan and Bobbi Vaughan Diaz, his sister, Emma Jean Vaughan Posey, granddaughter, Angela Bender and nephew, Ronald Vaughan. He is survived by his wife Martha Vaughan; daughter Kathy V. Pollack; son Raymond Vaughan Jr; brother Jimmy R Vaughan; sister Shirley Carr Hughes; He had a long career as an commercial electrician with IBEW, local 136. He was an avid gardener, beekeeper and fisherman. Enjoying sports as a little league coach. attending many football games, his greatest love was the Auburn Tigers. As a 4th degree knight with the Knights of Columbus, he lived his life in faith serving the community in a variety of charity projects. He was much beloved by his grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Renovation Fund or Catholic Charities.

James Lollar

july 11, 1935 — february 17, 2024

James Donald Lollar, 88 of Trussville, passed away Saturday, February 17, 2024. He was a member of Deerfoot Church of Christ (formerly Roebuck Parkway and Woodlawn). He is preceded in death by his wife, Emogene Beck Lollar; parents, George Thurman Lollar

dominating regular season run.

• Shades Valley’s Elite 8 appearance.

• The turnaround season at Pinson.

• Hewitt’s Final Four berth.

Player of the Year: Jordan Hunter, Hewitt-Trussville. The Auburn commit led the Lady Huskies with almost 20 points, four assists and three steals per game. Coach of the Year: Tonya Hunter, Hewitt-Trussville. Hunter holds a 444-172 record and has made three Final Fours over the past six years.

All-Tribune First-Team:

• Jordan Hunter, Senior, Hewitt-Trussville

• Angela Williams, Senior,

Shades Valley

Kamoriah Gaines, Senior, Clay-Chalkville

Kameron Sanders, Senior, Clay-Chalkville

• Brooklyn Phillips, Senior, Clay-Chalkville

• Raven Lewis, Senior, Pinson Valley

• Bella Bullington, Senior, Springville

Serenity Rutledge, Eighth grade, Moody

All-Tribune Second-Team:

• Rhaegan Evans, Senior, Shades Valley

• Kyla Ravizee, Senior, Shades Valley Jayla Whitsey, Junior, Moody Tori Pyles, Junior, Moody Abby Byrd, Senior, Moody

• Leah Bowden, Sophmore, Springville

• Ashlyn Howard, Junior, Hewitt-Trussville

• Ryleigh Martin, Junior, Hewitt-Trussville

All-Tribune Honorable Mention: Brijourne Williams, Senior, Center Point

• Sa’Naiya Thomas, Junior, Center Point

• Kamaya Holcomb, Freshman, Center Point Alissa Hawkins, Sophomore, Pinson Valley

Aniya Brown, Senior, Pinson Valley

• Gianna Davis, Senior, Leeds

• Marly Miller, Junior, Leeds Jordan

and Tonya Hunter. Credit: John Goolsby

Pinson hires new football coach

By Johnny Sanders Sports Editor

PINSON – This is not déjà vu folks. Pinson Valley has hired their next head football coach, James Thompson just a year after hiring Gentrell Eatman to take over the program. Eatman was relieved of his responsibilities as Pinson’s football coach back in November.

The hire of Thompson was approved at the Jefferson County Board of Education meeting on Thursday.

“I really took my time properly vetting the right coach for this position,” said Pinson Valley’s principal, Michael Turner. “I spoke to several coaches throughout the past two months and Coach Thompson’s experience, coupled with his passion for impacting the lives of young people really resonated with me. His time in both high school and college have prepared him for this opportunity here at Pinson Valley.”

Thompson comes to Pinson as their fifth head coach

in the past six years. Eatman served for one season after replacing Lee Guess, who also served one season after replacing Sam Shade.

Shade was a championship-winning coach at Pinson, winning the 6A state championship in 2020, his first season at Pinson. Shade left Pinson to take a job at Miles College. Before Shade, Patrick Nix was the head man for the Indians, winning championships in 2017 and 2018, leaving for Central-Phenix City after the 2019 season.

Thompson comes to Pinson with a successful high school coaching record. He holds a 50-23 record overall. Thompson started his head coaching career at Pickens County from 2015 thru 2017. The Tornadoes were runner-up in 1A in his final two years there. Thompson went to Carver-Montgomery after Pickens County, where he went 19-12.

His high school coaching career started as an assistant at Hillcrest-Evergreen as a 2006 Alabama State gradu-

ate. He played running back during his time at ASU. He served as linebackers coach before taking over as defensive coordinator. After that, he was an assistant on the staff at Carver-Montgomery before taking the head coaching job at Pickens County.

Coach Thompson is married to Jessica and they are parents to eight-year-old Jameson and four-year-old Jacob.

Thompson said the following about taking the Pinson job.

“I feel really good about getting back into high school. Being back in a position to oversee day-to-day operations of a football program. I am not concerned nor motivated by the recent coaching history at Pinson. I like to form my own opinion of every situation that I go into so nothing bothers me about what has happened in the past.

“To the community, school and fans, we are going to be blue collar workers. I

Hewitt advances to Final Four

By John Goolsby Prep Sports Editor

JACKSONVILLE – They

say beating a team twice in the same year is hard.

Beating a team three times in a season is almost impossible.

Beating a team four times in the same season is, well, unthinkable.

The Hewitt Lady Huskies (27-7) did the unthinkable.

With a trip to the 7A Final Four on the line, Tonya Hunter’s squad defeated Chelsea (26-6) 54-44 inside the Pete Mathews Coliseum on the campus of Jacksonville State.

“Chelsea is a wellcoached team,” said Hewitt head coach Tonya Hunter.

“I told them in the locker room before they went out that they have got to play beyond their limits,” said Hunter.

“They did that; they played beyond their limits.”

The Lady Huskies will be making their third final four appearance in the last six years.

Hewitt took a 10-0 lead before the Lady Hornets got on the board with 2:26 remaining in the first period.

The Lady Huskies held a 15-7 lead as the teams headed to the second period.

Hewitt went into halftime with a 29-23 lead.

Chelsea cut the Hewitt lead to three, 31-28, before a pair of big three-pointers by Sarah Phillips and Mia Ada pushed the score to 37-28.

The two teams entered the final period, with the Lady Huskies holding a 41-32 advantage.

Jordan Hunter, playing sick, scored 9 points and came up with two steals in the fourth quarter to help give the Lady Huskies the ten-point victory.

“Whatever I could give, I was going to give to my team

because that’s what they deserve,” said Hunter.

Hunter, an Auburn commit, led Hewitt with 16 points and four assists.

Hunter was an All-Tournament selection and the tournament MVP.

Olivia Burton, an All-Tournament selection, added 14 points with three assists.

Mia Ada, also an All-Tournament selection, chipped in 9 points on three of four shooting behind the arc. The Lady Huskies outrebounded an outstanding rebounding Chelsea team 2625.

Ashlyn Howard led Hewitt with ten rebounds.

Phillips collected five rebounds on the afternoon to go along with her five points.

Ryleigh Martin, Lauren Holley, and Amber Newman

Pinson Valley's new head football coach James Thompson during his time at Pickens County.

Photo by: bnnbreaking.com

See PINSON, Page 16

See HEWITT, Page 16

Final Four bound. Credit: HTHS

Byron wins Daytona 500

By John Goolsby Prep Sports Editor

DAYTONA BEACH –

William Byron has won the 2024 Daytona 500.

The 66th running of the “Great American Race” took place on Monday afternoon after the race was delayed one day due to rain.

Byron, in the #24 Hendrick Motorsports Chevy, started at the rear of the field due to a crash in his qualifying race.

“Honestly, it hasn’t sunk in yet,” Byron said of the win.

“It’s pretty incredible. I mean, this race takes so much to go your way, and so many little things that happen.”

Byron, an eleven-time NASCAR Cup Series winner, was declared the race winner after the #2 Ford of Austin Cendric and the #1 Chevrolet of Ross Chastain wrecked as they approached the start/finish lap to begin the final lap.

Byron’s win was the ninth 500 victory for Henrick Motorsports.

Teammate Alex Bowman in the #48 Chevrolet, Christopher Bell in the #20 Toyota, Corey LaJoie in the #7 Chev-

rolet, and A.J. Allmendinger in the #16 Chevrolet completed the top five.

The first wreck of the race came on lap five when Brad Keselowski, in the #6 Ford, and John Hunter Nemechek in the #42 Toyota, made contact that resulted in the #21 Ford of Harrison Burton wrecking.

Austin Dillon in the #3 Chevrolet, Kaz Grala in the #36 Ford, Jimmie Johnson in the #84 Toyota, and the #41 Ford of Ryan Preece sustained damage from the incident.

The race restarted on lap 12 with Bell and the #12 Ford of Ryan Blaney on the front row.

Chase Elliott in the #9 Chevrolet won Stage 1 at lap 65. Kyle Larson in the #5 Chevrolet, Chastain, Alex Bowman in the #48 Chevrolet, and Byron rounded out the top five.

Elliott picked up ten bonus points and a playoff point for the stage win.

On the restart at lap 70, Larson and the #4 Ford of Josh Berry led the field.

The #8 Chevrolet of Kyle Bush dropped to the rear of the field due to a safety viola-

tion during the pit stop.

Lap 112 saw the next round of pit stops.

As Nemechek was heading to his pit stall, Berry made contact with the #42, resulting in a spin.

Blaney took the Stage 2 win with a last-lap pass of teammate Cendric.

Daniel Suarez in the #99 Chevrolet, Busch and Tyler Reddick in the #45 Toyota completed the top five.

Busch, who had a second issue on pit road on lap 34, was battling the #11 Toyota of Denny Hamlin on lap 158 for the lead.

However, Busch saw his chances for victory fade when he tapped the wall two laps later.

Final pit stops began on lap 180. By the time the cars had cycled through their stops, Chastain had emerged in the lead ahead of Suarez, Byron, and Elliott.

Seven laps later, the “big one” happened.

With Chastain leading, the #22 Ford of Joey Logano was hit by Byron, who Bowman had pushed.

See BYRON, Page 16

Springville man wins Lake Martin fishing tournament

Special to The Tribune

ALEXANDER CITY–

Kyle Dorsett of Springville won the Major League Fishing Phoenix Bass Fishing League (BFL) tournament on Lake Martin last Saturday, catching a five-bass limit weighing 16 pounds, 12 ounces to win $4,009.

The tournament, hosted by the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce and presented by T-H Marine, was the first event of the season for the BFL Bama Division.

“My day started off kind of slow,” Dorsett said. “I found an area that had some fish in it Thursday in practice, so I ran 20 minutes down the lake and hunkered down and fished.”

“Lake Martin can be a weird lake to fish,” Dorsett

added. “They can be here today, gone tomorrow. But they hung around and I kept catching them. The wind blew 30 miles an hour, and when you get weather like that on Martin, the fish tend to bite.”

bass, 16-12, $4,009

2nd: Stihl Smith, Alexander, Ala., five bass, 14-4, $2,555

• 3rd: James Willoughby, Gulfport, Miss., five bass, 13-5, $1,336

Dorsett said he relied on a Garmin LiveScope to target fish and presented both a jerkbait and a Damiki rig to larger bass staying close to balls of baitfish.

“I’ve spent quite a bit of time on Martin this time of year,” said Dorsett. “It took 16 pounds to win a local tournament there the weekend before the BFL. So, when I had 14 pounds at 12 o’clock, I thought I had a shot at winning.

The top 10 boaters finished the tournament:

• 1st: Kyle Dorsett, Springville, Ala., five

• 4th: Donald Griffith, Robertsdale, Ala., five bass, 12-7, $935

5th: Marty Giddens, Eclectic, Ala., five bass, 11-13, $802

6th: Blake Tomlin, Greenville, Ga., five bass, 11-4, $701

• 6th: Carson Maddux, Hoover, Ala., five bass, 11-4, $701

8th: Connor Jacob, Peoria, Ill., five bass, 11-1, $568

8th: Blake Davenport, Jemison, Ala., five bass, 11-1, $568

See SPRINGVILLE, Page 16

William Byron Credit: Hendrick Motorsports

Kyle Dorsett holds his trophy for winning the MLF Phoenix Bass Fishing League tournament last Saturday. Courtesy of MLF.

Baseball Scores for the week of February 20-27

Pinson

From page 14

believe in work, community and family. They are getting a worker and someone who will

Hewitt

From page 14

contributed 20 minutes, five points, and two rebounds off the bench.

dedicate himself to the community and building young men and a football program.”

Thompson’s Indians look to get to work when he arrives back home next week from an

The Lady Huskies shot fifty percent from the field on 17 of 34 shots and fifty percent from three-point range on 7 of 14 shots.

Hewitt squares off against

NFL coaches conference in Charlotte. Pinson will have a spring program and they open the season on August 23 as they travel to Central-Phenix City.

Prattville Thursday at noon in Legacy Arena with a trip to the championship game on the line.

Hoover faces Auburn in the other semi-final matchup.

Byron

From page 15

The red flag was brought out after nineteen cars were involved in the incident.

Springville

From page 15

• 10th: Tim Ferguson, Pelham, Ala., five bass, 11-0, $468

The race was restarted on lap 196 with Chastain and Byron on the front row.

The race continued before the incident at the beginning of the last lap.

“I was pretty excited to win this,” Dorsett said. “I’ve won some big events on the Coosa lakes, but never one this big on Martin. I’ve never even done that well there, to

Byron’s win comes on the 40th anniversary of Hendrick Motorsports’ first race.

The Cup Series heads to Atlanta for the Ambetter Health 400 this Sunday.

be honest.”

The next event for BFL Bama Division anglers will be held April 20, at Lake Mitchell in Clanton, Ala.