The Trussville Tribune – March 8 - 14, 2023

Trussville Council hears report on Arbor Day event

By Nathan Prewett

For the Tribune

TRUSSVILLE – The Trussville City Council heard

Get To Know The Candidates: Trussville BOE concludes superintendent interviews

By Crystal McGough Associate Editor

See TRUSSVILLE, Page 5

Finalists for Trussville BOE seat announced

From The Tribune staff reports TRUSSVILLE — The names of the five finalists for the Board of Education at Trussville City Schools were announced on Friday in a press release from the city. According to the statement, the selection of the finalists to participate in the interview process are Jason

See FINALISTS, Page 4

council presents $60,000 check to schools

By

Clay Council plans action after Trussville raid

By Terry Schrimscher For

the Tribune

TRUSSVILLE – The Trussville Board of Education concluded its fifth and final interview for the position of Trussville City Schools Superintendent tonight, interviewing Dr. Holly Sutherland, who is currently current the Superintendent of Haleyville City Board of Education, Alabama, a position she has held since 2017.

Sutherland said that she is the type of person who likes to challenge and grow herself professionally.

She shared with the board her seven-point entry plan, which included rigorous and relevant curriculum instruction, employee expertise, accountability systems, financial resiliency and responsibility, community relations, school and student safety, and equitable opportunities for all students.

“I think it’s very important to be a strategic planner, even with myself, and hold my-

self accountable,” Sutherland said. “As you look through that packet, it’s just a way for me to hold myself accountable as I really get to know this district.”

Speaking further on equitable opportunities for all students, particularly when discussing diversity in the schools, Sutherland said “diversity doesn’t always look the same.”

Whether talking about race, culture, economic sta-

See CANDIDATES, Page 3

Six Trussville students earn biliteracy seal in pilot program

By Terry Schrimscher For the Tribune

Pinson Valley High, and Rudd Middle schools were present to ac-

Springville hold first hearing on redistricting, honors police officers

By Terry Schrimscher

For the Tribune

SPRINGVILLE – The Springville Council held its first public hearing on proposed redistricting plans Monday night, March 6. Copies of the proposed district changes and existing district

TRUSSVILLE – HewittTrussville High School launched its pilot program for the Global Seal of Biliteracy in January and six students have already earned certifications for proficiency in a second language.

“So far, we have piloted the program with students enrolled in AP Spanish Language and Culture,” said Molly Cook, World languages co-department head and Spanish teacher at the high school.

“We have 12 students in that class and tested all of them,” said Cook. “Six of the 12 earned the seal credential.” Cook said some of the other students in the class could still earn the recognition later this semester.

The students who earned the Global Seal of Biliteracy are Molly Bruno, Kaitlyn Hardy, Katie Kalchik, Pryce Sewell, Sam McMahon and Ella Grace Young. The students took the four-hour test Feb. 9. The exam measures proficiency in reading, writ-

- Pages 1-7

Finance - Pages 8-9

Outdoors - Page 10

Calendar - Page 11

Classified - Page 11

Obituary - Page 12

Sports - Pages 13-16

ing, speaking and listening in the language.

“The plan after this pilot group is to test every spring in levels three, four and AP,” Cook said. She added the purpose of testing is to help students move toward earning the credential but also to get feedback from the test administrators. The feedback will help teachers learn where students can improve in areas of each mode

of reading, writing, speaking and listening compared to results nationally and globally.

The Seal of Biliteracy program was approved in Alabama in 2022. Alabama became the 49th state to approve the certification. Hewitt-Trussville enacted the program in January of this year.

“Prior to Alabama adopting it, Vestavia piloted this

program, not through the state, they did it through the Global Seal of Biliteracy organization,” Cook said.

“When they meet the state standards for earning the seal of biliteracy, they’ve also met the global seal of biliteracy standards for functional fluency.”

The biliteracy program isn’t just for English speaking students taking a world language, students studying English as a second language (ESL) can also attain the certification.

“I really like how it reaches out to kids who are bilingual, who may not even take a foreign language in school,” said Lisa Burroughs ESL teacher at Hewitt-Trussville. “They have the ability to show they have functional fluency in two different languages. They can take the test and add that to their credentials.

“It encourages them to continue to build academic skills in their native language as well as English,” Burroughs added.

See BILITERACY, Page 4

CLAY – The Clay City Council held its final scheduled meeting of the month, Feb. 28, at 6 p.m., at City Hall. There was no new business on the agenda but the Council was given an update on a recent raid conducted by Trussville Police Department within Clay city limits.

See CLAY, Page 5

Center Point facing complaints about debris removal fees

By Terry Schrimscher

For the Tribune CENTER POINT – Like many cities in the Birmingham area, the city of Center Point has been struggling with debris pick-up services due to outside vendors ending the option. At the March 2

See CENTER POINT, Page 6

TCS Foundation raises more than $20K at 4th Annual Casino Night

Special to the Tribune TRUSSVILLE — More than $20,000.00 was raised at the Trussville City Schools Foundation’s (TCSF) 4th Annual Casino Night – for the second year in a row! The event-packed evening, hosted at Ferus Artisan Ales in the

Leeds council approves budget amendment for police equipment, announces community cleanup

Nathan Prewett

By

For the Tribune

LEEDS – The Leeds City Council met on Monday, March 6, where they approved an amendment to use

Dr. John Barge Dr. Kevin Maddox Dr. Bart Reeves

Mr. Tony Willis Dr. Holly Sutherland

Hewitt-Trussville students who have earned the high school's first biliteracy seals are front L to R: Molly Bruno, Kaitlyn Hardy, Katie Kalchik, and back L to R: Pryce Sewell, Sam McMahon, Ella Grace Young.

By Carleen Phillips –Songbird Coordinator

You’re beginning to think your yard looks like something from Stranger Things; nothing but leggy specimens of unknown origins. You yearn for spring, for the nice, controlled green spaces. In your mind’s eye, you have everything planned out from where the new lawn furniture will go, to where the kiddie pool will NOT go. It will be a yard for the neighbors to envy. But first, you must do something about those leggy specimens. You have clippers and shears, hedge trimmers and even a chainsaw for the unsightly tree out back. You put on eye protection and tug at your hat. You’re ready.

I get it. But hold your horses before you do anything drastic.

New growth is exciting to see and can rapidly grow out of control. There are many websites which go into great length about the proper pruning meth-

Tree Talk

ods, and pruning times. These times are fall, and winter. It is healthy for the tree. It is also healthy for other, leggy specimens.

Babies. Birds, to be specific. And you’ve just found a nest, right in the shrub you were about to take out.

Yes, all that new leggy growth hides other new, leggy growths. These leggy growths are naked, helpless, innocent, and want nothing more than food (and more food, and more food.) They didn’t mean to appear in the shrubs that you swore you were going to trim back three months ago. It just happened. And yes, that WAS a mother Mockingbird who just dive-bombed you.

What is one to do?

The main thing, if you happen to be late to trimming or pruning you yard, is to forgive yourself for your oversight. No sense in beating yourself up. We all procrastinate.

But in addition, think of those helpless, adorable leggy growths.

At the Alabama Wildlife Center, located in Oak Mountain State Park in Pelham, we take from 1300 to 2000 birds a year. The majority come during the spring and summer and are misplaced nestlings. I will never forget the young girl, probably all of ninety pounds, who walked in carrying a heavy log from a tree that was being cut down in her yard. The log was buzzing, and I stepped back, waiting for bees to come blazing out. But inside were six baby grey dinosaurs - Northern Flickers, our state bird. Six baby Yellowhammers.

What about that awful tree in your backyard? Since reassembling a tree isn’t possible, the next best option is to wait until the winter to cut them down.

I’ve been handed partially torn nests with eggs still in them. “We didn’t know it was

there. What do we do?”

Well, go put it back. Now. And leave the bush alone. Let them grow and fledge. It doesn’t take long.

Our birds are under federal protection. It is illegal to move or disturb nests or anything associated with them.

So, if you do find a nest, stop immediately. Do not disturb the nest or try and relocate the nest. The parent chose that spot for a reason. Even if it is a wren who decided to nest in the mud-covered shoe you left on your back porch. Take the time to enjoy what is unfolding before you. Set up a nest cam. Keep a journal.

If you do find a baby bird who needs help, don’t panic. Give us a call at the center, and we will talk you through it, or ask you to bring the bird in.

The Alabama Wildlife Center is open seven days a week. You can find out more about our work at alabamawildlifecenter.org

Candidates

From

tus, gender, disabilities, or other diversities, she said that it’s important to make sure there are no barriers for things like dual enrollment, extracurricular activities, and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) classes.

When asked which superintendent “hat” she is most excited to wear, Sutherland replied, “student achievement and special education.”

“Not all kids have an advocate,” she said. “Not all kids have someone standing in their corner.”

In closing, board member Dr. Steve Ward asked Sutherland what she would say were her five personal strenths.

Sutherland said she would say she is “courageous, compassionate, passionate, resilient and flexible.”

The BOE began its superintendent interviews Monday night, Feb. 27, with Dr. John Barge and Dr. Kevin Maddox.

Dr. Barge is currently self-employed as an education consultant in Kingston, Georgia, but has previous experience as the Superintendent of McIntosh County Schools (2015-2019) and State School Superintendent for the Georgia Department of Education (2011-2015).

One of the first questions the board asked Barge was concerning his immediate plans for the job within the first one, three and six months, to which Barge said that he planned to “hit the ground running.”

“As quickly as I can, (I plan to) meet with you all, each principal, the staffs at each school,” Barge said.

L oca L / R egion

“Get to know them and let them get to know me, making sure we don’t miss a beat.”

Barge added that he likes to have a wide range of advisor committees, including committees of parents, teachers and students, as well as other school staff including bus drivers, custodians and nutrition workers.

“I make it a point to make sure all groups are represented in my advisor committees,” he said. In his last superintendent position, Barge said he entered into a situation where there had been serious ethical issues and loss of trust with the community. “So, the advisor committees are very important. It allows members of the community to have an input.”

Additionally, Barge said he has an open-door policy and wants easily accessible lines of communication, via email, phone, text, and even an app, to be able to immediately communicate with parents.

As for educational standards, Barge said high expectations are critical.

“I expect all students to learn (and) that happens when we have high expectations,” he said. “High achievement is not going to look the same for every student (because) students have different passions. … As superintendent, my job is to make sure the environment is conducive to those high expectations. To make sure the environment is conducive to learning.”

Monday night’s second interview was with Dr. Kevin Maddox, who is currently Assistant Superintendent at the Homewood City Board of Education, a position he has held since 2012.

Maddox referred to the superintendent position as a “critical leadership position,” and prior to the interview, he provided the board members with his 100-day entry plan.

The plan, he said, has four overarching goals: transition seamlessly, listen intently, organize strategically and communicate transparently.

Maddox said that part of his plan for a seamless transition is to work closely with Interim Superintendent Dr. Frank Costanzo.

As for the second goal –listen intently – Maddox said he plans to initiate “Listen and Learn” sessions where community members will be invited to share their voice.

He also said he is a big fan of climate surveys, surveys that provide in-depth profiles of a school’s strengths and weaknesses.

“If you want to know everything you need to know to be the best leader, you have to ask the right people and the right questions,” he said. Maddox added that the surveys would be anonymous and administered by a third party, in order to get the most honest results. “It will be the best source of feedback that a superintendent could ever get.”

The results of these surveys would then be used to meet the third goal in Maddox’s plan: organize strategically for the next school year.

As for his fourth goal, to communicate transparently, Maddox said he wants to “communicate so well, so often, and so efficiently” that people begin to ask why he’s sharing so much.

“Over-communicate,” he said. “Things are going to happen, but when they do you have to own it, deal with

it and communicate about it. People have to trust that you’re going to be forthright with them and honest. That’s the only way I’ve ever operated.”

On Tuesday night, Feb. 28, the board interviewed Dr. Bart Reeves and Mr. Tony Willis.

Dr. Reeves is currently the Alabama Association of Schools Boards Assistant Executive Director/Government Relations, a position he has held since 2021, and was the former Superintendent of Satsuma City Schools (20182021).

While Reeves appreciates the position he currently holds, he told the board that he feels his true calling is to be a superintendent, working with K-12 schools and students.

“In 2015, I had reached the point in my career I was ready to become a superintendent,” he said. “I keep finding the same calling today, and that is to get back to K-12.”

Reeves said that, if he were to be the next superintendent of Trussville City Schools, he would immediately start working with administrators and principals to prepare for the upcoming school year and student population increases, and then focus on building relationships within the community.

“Relationships are the key,” he said. “… If you have good, working relationships with your people, they will move mountains for you.”

As for how Reeves plans to keep lines of communication open with TCS parents and the community, he said, “I am a technology enthusiast.”

Reeves said he plans to use multiple platforms to communicate, including the

Blackboard App.

Additionally, Reeves said he is also a fan of incorporating technology into the classrooms, likening modern A.I. to his experience when calculators first came on the scene.

“I think we need to embrace A.I.,” he said. “I’m telling you, it’s about to change the world, folks. If your teachers and administrators are not aware of it, they need to be aware of it very soon.”

The next Tuesday night candidate was Mr. Tony Willis, who is currently the Superintendent of the Demopolis City Board of Education in Alabama. He has held this position since 2021 and is also the Supervisor of Accountability at Decatur City Schools, a title he has held since 2020.

“I’ve spent my life in education; I started at six-yearsold and never have stopped going to school,” Willis said.

When asked about his plans for the first month, three months and six months, Willis replied, “Sometimes people love to try to awe people with some massive plan. … The first thing I’ve got to do is listen.”

Willis said that he would spend his first few days on the job having one-on-one conversations with each board member individually. Then, he would begin meeting with principals, administrators, and school staff members.

“I ask three questions,” he said. “What do you love about this job; about this school system? What can we do better? What can I do as superintendent to support you better?”

By late summer, Willis said that he would expect to have advisory committees in

place.

Willis added that creating a positive culture in the schools would be his top priority, and that begins with the teachers.

“If mama’s not happy, nobody’s happy, and mama is the teacher in the classroom,” he said.

Willis listed three words that he considers key to creating a good culture and climate in schools: relationships, relevance and rigor.

“We are working with people, and you can’t take the people piece out of it,” he said. “If you have a relationship, you get more out of people.”

As for relevance, “we don’t have time for things that aren’t relevant,” Willis said. “We don’t have time for busy work.”

Concerning rigor, Willis said this term is commonly used in reference to the students, but it is equally as relevant to the educators and staff.

“I think adults like having a challenge that, once it’s accomplished, they can feel accomplished,” he said.

Another important goal Willis said he would have as superintendent is to engage with parents and families of the students.

“We have to remember that every single student is someone’s world,” he said. “I’ve got to engage parents and families because that’s the only way we’re going to know their needs and concerns.”

This article has been edited for space. To read the full article, visit www.trussvilletribune.com. To view the superintendent interviews in their entirety, visit Trussville City Schools on Facebook or www.trussvillecityschools. com.

cept the check. Johnson Elementary School Principal Brandi Wilson said that the funds will go towards structural improvements to the building.

“We have about 620 kids right now,” she said. “And we are making great headway in some outside remodeling and renovations, so we’re really excited about using some of (the funds) to do that.”

Rudd Middle School Principal Adrian Pryor is new to the position and still learning the ins and outs, he said.

“I’m still learning the system, still learning the kids,” he said. “But so far I love it. We’ve got a great group of kids out here and a great group of teachers at our school.”

Next Pinson Valley High School Principal Michael Turner spoke. He gave several updates on school sports and testing, noting that a football coach was recently hired. This was Gentrell Eatman, who used to be offensive coordinator for three years at the school.

“I know that it’s very important,” he said. “Certainly thinking about the lives that all of our teachers and coaches impact every single day.”

Later in the meeting City Attorney Shane Black delivered an update on the management at Turkey Creek Nature Preserve. He reported

that there is a management change at the preserve, which had been operated by Birmingham Southern but will be turned over to Ruffner Mountain Park by the end of March.

The city has regularly given $20,000 per year to Birmingham Southern for site manager costs. Black said that at the next meeting, the council will consider a resolution to begin giving that money to Ruffner and to approve changing the lease that Birmingham Southern has to the new operators.

During enhancements, the council briefly discussed Trade Days and City Fest, with Councilwoman Glenda Kirkland announcing that Trade Days will be held on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2

p.m., and City Fest will be on April 29, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

In other business the council:

• Annexed a property on Turkey Creek Road,

• Approved the voting delegates for the Alabama League of Municipalities as Mayor Joe Cochran for first alternate, Councilman John Churchwell as second and Councilwoman Clintesha Irvin as third,

• Rezoned a property on Brook Crest Way from Jefferson County R-1 to RM (Residential Medium), Changed the name of Oak Street West to Bicentennial Lane to give a searchable GPS address for the park and avoid confusion with directions,

• Authorized Cochran to enter into an agreement with the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office to continue services, Amended the intended salary of the revenue clerk position from $17.25$22.50 to $17.25-$26 per hour, and

• Approved a request to promote two Parks and Recreation employees from part-time to full-time.

Pinson City Council meets on the first and third Thursdays of every month at City Hall on 4410 Main Street. Live-streamed meetings can be seen on the city’s Facebook page.

Trussville Entertainment District, took place on February 11th, included games from GoodFellas Gaming, a silent art auction, student-crafted culinary creations from Hewitt-Trussville Culinary Academy, and more. More than 150 supporters showed up for this great cause, which raises money that gets directly invested into Trussville City Schools classrooms.

In its first year (2020), Casino Night raised $7,000. In 2021, the event raised $12,000.

“We are extremely blessed to once again announce that we had a successful, fun and sold out event,” TCSF Executive Director Leslie Armstrong said. “We love that the community of Trussville believes that partnering with us will make a difference in our schools, and together we can invest in our future.”

Presenting sponsors for Ca-

Daniel, Stacey Gill, Brian Jackson, Craig Jelks, and Dwight Julbert.

“Candidates will be interviewed individually by the

Students in the United States must demonstrate proficiency in English along with another language to qualify to participate, except in Hawaii where students are allowed to substitute Hawaiian in place of English.

“When these kids apply for academic scholarships with colleges, they’re competing

sino Night included Trussville To Go, 4 Africa, and Lathan Architects. Ferus Artisan Ales was the Venue Sponsor, and Alabama Roofing sponsored the bar. Food was prepared by the Hewitt-Trussville Culinary Academy and sponsored by the Hewitt-Trussville Band Foundation. Our drink sponsor, Brian Bento Restoration and Construction bought the first 100 drinks for attendees. Our ticket sponsor this year was Amari and Gray Law Firm and table sponsors were CCI Planning and Engineering, Hitchcock and Maddox Financial Partners, Nelms Pharmacy, Barnett Furniture, Emergency Pet Care, Landmark CPA, Lee Marlow; Realtor, Meals by Misty, Morrette Law Firm, Rushing Law Firm, and Sargent McDonald Team. Our security sponsor was Chas Brown with State Farm. Grand Prizes were donated by Accent Limo and Valerie’s Incredible Edibles, Samuel and Sons, Webster and Henry Law Firm and the YMCA Trussville. Door

BOE selection committee in the coming weeks,” according to the statement. “Questions received from the community will also be included in the interviews. The BOE selection committee will present their recommended finalists for con-

against other students who also have many recognitions within different extracurricular circles,” Cook said. “This is another way for them to stand out from students who have not incorporated that language learning into their curriculum.”

The Global Seal of Biliteracy website says recognitions like the bilingual seal can help students gain college credits and advanced placement. The organization says

Prizes were awarded throughout the night and donated by Tula J Boutique, Wrapsody Trussville, Caroline and Company, The Varsity, Wildgoose Garden, Sunnie Leigh Floral Arrangements and Tips to Toes Hair and Nail Studio. In addition, art for the silent auction was donated by Laurel Browning Art, Grace Ann Lambert Art, Brynlea Franklin (10th grade art student at HTHS), Chelsea Propst, Beth Huffstutler, Anna Dickson, and John Shadrick. Together these pieces brought $2300.00 towards the total earnings.

WhistleStop Garden Shop decorated with extravagant floral arrangements and Spring Green Lawn Care, Joint Chiropractic and WhistleStop provided the beautiful Casino atmosphere.

For more information on how to partner with TCSF and sponsor our events, please contact Leslie Armstrong, Executive Director of Trussville City Schools Foundation, by emailing director@tcsf.org.

sideration to the entire council prior to the scheduled April 11th City Council meeting.”

The finalist chosen by the City Council will fill the seat being vacated by Mark Sims who has served one term on the BOE.

it can also help students wishing to study abroad and help them stand out with potential employers or qualify for different pay grades.

Currently, the World Languages department at Hewitt-Trussville plans to offer the test for the seal to students in Spanish, French and Latin. Students who speak other languages can also test in their heritage language if they are fluent in English.

L-R: Rudd Middle School Principal Adrian Pryor, Pinson Valley High School Principal Michael Turner, Mayor Joe Cochran, and Johnson Elementary School Principal Brandi Wilson. (Photo by Nathan Prewett)

Trussville

From front page

away with the help of donations.

“We were very lucky again this year that we were able to get a donation of trees from Alabama Forestry and a monetary contribution and some trees from Alabama Power,” Mitchell said. “As a result of that, we didn’t spend one cent of city money for the Arbor Day event this year.”

He reported that the city was presented with an acknowledgement from Tree City USA this year for the commission’s efforts. Girl Scout Troop 30679 was present to help plant an Arbor Day Tree near Heritage Hall.

Mitchell spoke of a “Tree Talk” presentation that was held last Thursday where it was suggested that the city begin with a tree care and tree removal service and that the commission would be willing to help with this. Mitchell said that the city also needs to move forward with replanting trees.

“We’ve got to get on with replanting these trees,” he said. “We probably should’ve been replanting trees 20 years ago.”

Additionally, Mitchell reported that during the giveaway on Saturday there were 400 trees to begin with but that he received a call from the power company, which had 5,000 pine trees that they asked to bring to them for the giveaway. These trees were largely seedlings and saplings.

The trees had all been given away before 11:30 a.m., he said.

“It was just super, running out of trees,” he said. “It really was.”

After the consent agenda was passed, several spoke during public comments, the first among them being Arnold Reichert. He had spoken at the Feb. 15 meeting where he addressed a planned restroom project at the historic

Mall district, speaking out against it.

At tonight’s meeting, Reichert asked Mayor Buddy Choat where the funds for the project came from.

“Well, we’re paying for it out of our general fund now but the money is coming from some funds from the state of Alabama over a period of three years,” Choat replied.

Afterwards Reichert suggested that the council knew that the project would not be popular with the residents of the district and that no one from the city talked to them before the project was approved.

Later Brian Payne spoke on the same subject and asked if the plans were presented for the Design Review Committee. Choat said that they were presented to the committee and that they were returned with suggestions for several changes. Payne asked if they were approved but Councilman Ben Short said that it was not required of the council to have a vote on it.

Payne also asked if research had been done to ensure that construction would not impact any sinkhole-prone places in the area. Choat said that there had not been.

Another was Michelle Moskal, who asked the council about a piece of land behind her property on Dew Drive. She asked what the plans for it were, to which Choat said that it is intended to be a walking track for a park. Moskal asked that the

council consider putting up a fence between it and her property.

During discussion of the regular agenda, the council passed a resolution to authorize a land swap between Trussville and GSI Holdings to enable road construction linking Commerce Lane to Camp Coleman Road. This will be located near the railroad tracks and will provide a way for motorists to get around any train blockages.

The meeting ended with the council going into executive session to discuss potential litigation. In other business the council:

Designated Choat as the authorized voting delegate to the Alabama League of Municipalities with Councilwoman Lisa Bright to be first alternate and Councilwoman Jamie Anderson to be second alternate, Accepted the resignation of Park and Recreation Board member Chris Cobb,

• Appointed J.T. Murphy to the Board of Zoning Adjustments, replacing interim member Jef Freeman, Appointed Josh Wooten to the Downtown Redevelopment Authority with a term to end on Nov. 23, 2028,

• Held a public hearing and then passed a resolution to abate a property on Smith Sims Road,

• Approved a video surveillance and security installation contract with IPointUSA for the city gymnastics center, and

• Approved unpaid leave for a city recreation member in probationary status from June 3 to June 16.

The Trussville City Council meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of every month at City Hall on 131 Main Street.

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

The planned raid was led by Trussville police on the evening of Feb. 27. City Manager Ronnie Dixon updated the Council on the situation in his report.

“It was carried out by Trussville PD,” Dixon said. “We condemned that house and then Trussville’s city judge came and fought it and we wound up leaving that house standing with them saying that was not a drug house.

“Well, now it got raided last night,” Dixon continued. “We need to start the process of condemnation and demolition again if y’all want to.”

The city passed a resolution condemning the house located at 6556 Clay Palmerdale Road in June of 2021 and accepted a bid for demolition at the Aug. 10, 2021, meeting.

Leon Shaw spoke to the Council on Aug. 24, 2021 ,and the Council delayed demolition of the property until the rightful owner of the home could be determined in court.

“That’s definitely the community drug house. It

has been for several years,” Dixon said. “It’s not in livable condition. We have the opportunity to tear it down.”

Dixon said he anticipated Shaw would again retain counsel to prevent the demolition and wanted to get guidance from the Council before beginning the paperwork to restart the process.

“We’re not talking about something the community does not want done away with,” Dixon said. “They’ve asked us over and over again.”

The Council will have to follow the procedure of passing a new resolution condemning the property and solicit bids for the demolition of the structure. The resolution should be on the agenda at the March 14 meeting.

Councilmember Dr. Orletta Rush shared information about the recent Magic City Dance Off, which was held Feb. 14, at Pinson Valley High School. The annual event is an inclusive dance competition held for special needs students in Jefferson County Schools.

Clay-Chalkville High School students won the high

school division of the competition for the second year in a row. Homewood High School took second place and Pinson Valley High School won third place.

“It was an awesome event for special needs students that were there,” Rush said.

“I was very proud for ClayChalkville High School for winning.”

Nine schools participated in the dance competition and 12 schools attended. Dancers are spread out across two divisions for middle school and high school. Erwin Middle School won their division. North Jefferson Middle School and Hueytown Middle school came in second and third, respectively.

Rush mentioned the sponsors who helped make the event a success. Tyson Foods, Golden Flake and DJ Ulises Echeverry donated products and services. Pinson Valley High School hosted the event and teachers from Gardendale and Mortimer Jordan high schools prepared food for the participants.

The next meeting of the Clay City Council is scheduled for 6 p.m. on Feb. 28, at City Hall.

Ralph Mitchell reports on the events of Arbor Day to the Trussville City Council.

(Photo by Nathan Prewett)

Mayor Webster and Ronnie Brown discuss the raid in Clay by Trussville Police. (Photo by Terry Schrimscher)

Center Point

From front page meeting, members of the City Council fielded complaints from citizens about fees for debris removal and comments about trash dumping around the city.

“I just found out recently about the debris pick up for $50,” said Tracy Stewart Sr., a 19-year resident of the city of Center Point. “I’m disabled. Fifty dollars might seem like not a lot of money to some people, but that’s a little something for me.”

Stewart said he has driven around the city near his home and he sees yards filled with box springs, mattresses and other types of debris. He said people are beginning to dump stuff illegally rather than pay the fee for the city to haul it away.

“What I do, I load the stuff up on my truck and take it out to the landfill. That’s cheaper for me to do that,” Stewart said. “I don’t know what the issue is with us being able to get stuff picked up, but the $50 ain’t going to do it.”

Waste Management ceased debris services in the city May 1 of last year. Center Point was able to temporarily fund debris pick-up using grant funding but began charging a $50 optional fee in October.

“We’re now picking up the debris because Waste Management decided they were going to stop,” said Mayor Bobby Scott. “It’s an expensive task. When Waste Management dropped it, we had

Birmingham-Southern College: A solid investment for Alabama

By Mark Rupright Guest Op-ed

For more than 160 years, Birmingham-Southern College has been a leader in Alabama higher education. With help, we will continue to do so for generations to come.

one truck. It was not our job to pick up debris.”

Scott said the city determined it would cost approximately $600,000 per year to run a debris pick-up program.

“So we, at that point, tried to do an ad valorem tax,” he said. “That failed. So our next step was to try to offer something.”

Scott estimated the cost per household for the ad valorem tax would be $7 per month.

“You’re not obligated to pay the city to pick-up debris. You can have anybody you want come through and grab that debris,” Scott said. “We came up with the $50 as a way to recoup some of our funding.”

Scott said the city has had many calls from citizens wanting to use the debris service. He added the city is increasing efforts to enforce city codes requiring yards to be kept free of debris.

In other business, the Council reviewed a report on the 2021 audit report from the firm of Banks, Finley & White. The Council voted to accept the audit as presented.

Tremayne Thompson spoke via Zoom with a proposal for the Perfect Note gospel music festival on September 24. The Council is reviewing the proposal and did not take further action at this time.

The Center Point City Council meets on the first and third Thursdays of the month at City Hall at 2209 Center Point Parkway.

As the only nationally ranked liberal arts college in the state, BSC has supplied Alabama with private and public sector leaders for generations.

A Birmingham-Southern degree is a symbol of excellence and a source of pride for alumni and their families. It is a mark of a person who has chosen to lead a life of significance.

BSC serves a diverse student body, nearly a third of whom are ethnic minorities and about that same number who are first-generation college students. BSC currently enrolls dozens of students from the Trussville, Clay, and Pinson area, which is home to hundreds of its alumni.

BSC and its students are inseparable from our community. Its alumni are our doctors, teachers, accountants, coaches, ministers, and lawyers. Its students serve people in need, work to save our watersheds, educate our children, and entertain us with sports, musical performances, and theatrical shows. The College supplies Alabama, Auburn, UAB, and other state universities with their most talented graduate and professional students.

As a BSC physics professor and Trussville resident for the past 16 years, I have seen what the College has done for our students. We have taken students with modest mathematics backgrounds and turned them into engineers and data scientists. I have seen an English major become a physician, a football player become a drug-development

team leader, and a physics major become a pastor. BSC is a place where students deeply study subjects that interest them while developing skills that aid them in fields far outside of their majors.

Unfortunately, BSC finds itself in a financial crisis. Decisions that are questionable in hindsight, coupled with a major recession and later a pandemic, have drained the College’s endowment.

Fortunately, BSC President Daniel Coleman, an internationally recognized expert in finance, has a sound plan for creating financial resilience for the College through a new endowment with rigid oversight. We have already secured commitments of $45 million toward a May 2026 goal of $200 million. President Coleman’s plan will rebuild in a few years a financial structure that took many years to collapse.

To meet this goal, the College needs operational support in the form of a one-time investment from the State of Alabama, Jefferson County, and the City of Birmingham. Much of this money comes from federal funds related to the global pandemic. Based

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on guidance from the U.S. Department of Treasury, BSC already qualifies for $12.5 million of those funds, which must be distributed by the state. The balance of $17.5 million could come from the Alabama Education Trust Fund, which has a projected surplus of $2.5 billion this year. ETF funds are allocated to private entities, including colleges and universities, every year. With that surplus, bridge funding for BSC in 2023 will not diminish funding to any other institution, public or private.

Combined with smaller asks to Jefferson County and the City of Birmingham, this investment will keep the College operating while the endowment raise is completed.

How can such an investment be justified? A study by an independent economist found that the College has a direct economic impact of $97.2 million each year on Alabama’s economy. When the economic contribution of BSC alumni is added, the impact is even greater. The study, conducted by M. Keivan Deravi, Ph.D. of Economic Research Services, Inc., found that in addition to the College itself,

BSC alumni “… are responsible for a value-added social benefit of approximately $211.5 million in 2022. That is their annual contribution to the state’s economy,” the study found. With a one-time allocation of $17.5 million, the College will continue to benefit Alabama with $97.2 million in direct economic impact — year after year. By any measure, that represents a solid return on investment. BSC has touched countless lives inside Alabama and beyond. We have a president and a board dedicated to implementing a clear, attainable financial plan. All we need is time.

If you agree that Alabama’s premier undergraduate institution is a worthy investment, please contact your state and county representatives and ask them to support the College’s request for bridge funding. Trussville resident Dr. Mark Rupright is an associate professor of physics at Birmingham-Southern College. He holds a B.S. in physics and mathematics from the University of Tennessee and a Ph.D. in physics from the University of North Carolina.

Sealed proposals will be received by Jefferson County Board of Education, 2100 18th Street South, Birmingham, Alabama 35209, until 2:00 p.m. CST April 13, 2023 for JEFCO 2023 Re-Roofs for AES, BES, BC, CES, CMS, GES, JCLC, MHS, MMS, PGIB, WJES at which time and place they will be publicly opened and read. All proposals must contain Jefferson County Bid # 26-21 on the outside of the proposal.

The work includes removal of existing roof material (membrane, insulation, associated metal flashings and trim, etc.) and installing a new roofing system (membrane, cover board, insulation, associated metal flashings and trim, etc.).

A cashier’s check or bid bond payable to Jefferson County Board of Education in an amount not less than five (5) percent of the amount of the bid, but in no event more than $10,000, must accompany thebidder’s proposal. Performance and Payment Bonds and evidence of insurance required in the bid documents will be required at the signing of the Contract.

The Owner intends to award multiple or single contracts for this work to pre-qualified General Contractor(s). The Owner will accept proposals only from firms which demonstrate their experience and ability to perform the work necessary for this project. Interested General Contractors must submit a Contractor’s Qualification Statement, AIA A305. Minimum qualifications to be certified by prospective bidders include: 1) statutory licensor requirements, 2) bonding capacity in excess of $5,000,000 dollars, 3) minimum of five (5) years successful history as an approved, authorized or licensed General Contractor, 4) successful current experience in construction of a size and scope similar to this Project, and 5) submit list of proposed contractor’s team including subcontractors.

Joint venture arrangements must qualify solely on the strength of the principal firm’s qualifications. Notarized Contractor’s Qualification Certificates must be submitted to the Architect along with any request to obtain Bid Documents by a General Contractor by Monday, March 24, 2023. The required Form of Certificate is AIA Document A305 Contractor’s Qualification Statement 1986 Edition and may be obtained from the Architect.

Drawings and specifications may be purchased from Alabama Graphics, 2801 5th Ave, South, Birmingham, AL 35233, 205-252-850.5 Contractors must purchase sets at their own expense - no deposits or refunds will be allowed. Drawings may be examined at the offices of TURNERBATSON, 1950 Stonegate Drive, Suite 200, Birmingham, Alabama 35242, the office of Birmingham Construction Industry Authority (BCIA), andF.W. Dodge Birmingham (a.k.a. McGraw Hill), Associated General Contractors, Construction Market Data on Friday, March 17, 2023.Bids must be submitted on proposal forms furnished by the Architect (Engineer) or copies thereof. All bidders bidding in amounts exceeding that established by the State Licensing Board for General Contractors must be licensed under the provisions of Title 34, Chapter 8, Code of Alabama, 1975, and must show evidence of license before bidding or bid will not be received or considered by the Architect (Engineer); the bidder shall show such evidence by clearly displaying his or her current license number on the outside of the sealed envelope in which the proposal is delivered. The Owner reserves the right to reject any or all proposals and to waive technical errors if, in the Owner’s judgment, the best interests of the Owner will thereby be promoted.

A Pre-Bid Conference will be held at Jefferson County Board of Education – Executive Conference Room at 2:00 pm,CST, Thursday, March 29 2023. Attendance at Pre-Bid Conference as well as in-person observation to all location prior to the bid opening by Prequalified Contractor Bidders is Mandatory.

Awarding Authority: Jefferson County Board of Education Dr. Walter Gonsoulin, Superintendent

Center Point resident Tracy Stewart Sr. addresses the Center Point City Council. (The City of Center Point Facebook page)

Birmingham-Southern College

From front page

confiscated funds to pay for new police equipment and the mayor announced a community cleanup effort in April.

The meeting was very brief on Monday and council members Eric Turner and Angie Latta were absent. In his report, Mayor David Miller said that a community-wide cleanup is planned for April 22, at 9 a.m.

Volunteers will meet at the lot across from the Windstream building on 8373 First Avenue to pick up trash, debris and litter.

“So, please help us,” Miller said. “We’ve gone quite a while now without doing a city-wide cleanup, so this is an opportunity for people to do something rather than just look at trash when we can actually pick up that trash and make our city look better.”

Those interested in volunteering can call 205-6990943, email development@ leedsalabama.gov, or visit the city website.

Afterwards, the council heard a department report from Police Chief Paul Irwin. He reported that the Grand River area has seen a number of shoplifting arrests.

The council later passed two items on the agenda, one being the budget amendment at the request of Irwin. This is to purchase a new technology for officers called G.L.O.V.E. (Generated Low Output Volt-

age Emitter), which is used for handling arrests. The G.L.O.V.E is a compliance tool that fits on the hands exactly like regular gloves and generates a low amount of electricity.

“The main reason I wanted to get it is to protect our officers,” Irwin said. “Because if they’re dealing with someone hands on and they’ve got the ability to deescalate a situation by showing a use of force, it will help.”

During public comments Marche Holt was the only speaker. She brought up the upkeep of the Clairmont Park subdivision, saying that, as construction progresses, the back part of the streets there have been patched up but has not lasted and that there has been weed growth and dirt piles.

Miller said that he will determine what aspect the city has authority to address and what the construction company has responsibility for.

In other business, the council:

Adopted and ratified the December 2022 city expenditures and payables.

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.

maps can be found on the city website.

“It remains seven single-member districts,” said City Attorney James Hill III, speaking of the proposed changes. “It provides a more consistent number of citizens within each district.”

The proposed districts were created by the Regional Planning Commission of Greater Birmingham (RPC) based on census block data. In October of 2021, the Council approved a $5,000 contract, plus hourly rates, with RPC to draw up proposals for redistricting the city.

One of the questions presented at that time, and in later discussions, revolved around whether it was possible to preserve the city’s existing majority minority district.

“Remember, we had a lot of discussions at that time about all these different options, many of which included, ‘Is it possible for the city to preserve a majority minority district?’” Hill said. “In reality, this body decided that would be remarkably unlikely, if possible at all, without an unbelievable derivation from your mapping districts.”

In a previous meeting, Hill had explained that the law requires municipalities to seek no greater than a 5% variance. Previously, the city diverged greatly from that rule to maintain the majority minority district in place.

“The law doesn’t actually require a public hearing. However, with items such as this, often times municipalities do entertain public comments,” Hill said.

Brett Isom of the RPC was on hand to field questions during the meeting. He explained one of the goals was for the districts to be relatively the same size with a variation of 5%.

“We tried to keep it as close to plus or minus 5%,”

Isom said. “I think one of the districts may have gotten up to six.”

“It would be my recommendation that you not take action tonight,” Hill said. He suggested allowing a couple of weeks for the city to receive comments from the public and allow people to review the changes.

Police Chief Wayne Walton addressed the Council of concerns about losing officers to other cities.

“In one week, we have lost three police officers,” Walton said. “The reasons for leaving were insurance, sign-on bonus and incentive pay for specialized job classifications within the department.”

Walton cited examples in other cities offering $5,000 sign-on bonuses and college tuition reimbursements among other benefits. The Council is expected to meet to work on budget ideas to help Springville remain competitive in hiring officers for the city.

Several officers were recognized for their work during the meeting. City Attorney Hill read a letter commending four members of the police department for their work on a recent suicide case in the city.

The letter thanked the city saying the officers arrived quickly, consoled the family, and even attended the funeral to pay respects to the family. The letter specifically mentioned Sergeant Maggie Milazzo for her kind words and

giving her time to comfort the family and officers Brandon Cain and John Key along with Administrative Assistant Gina Burns for their efforts.

During the meeting, Chief Walton presented promotions to three officers to new ranks.

Officer Kevin Stewart was promoted to Sergeant. Officer Justin Rigby was promoted to Corporal. Officer Steve Wilson was also promoted to the rank of Corporal.

In other business, the Council took the following actions:

• Appointed Drexel Rayford and Alex Bosworth to

the park board.

• Approved resolutions to enter into cooperative purchasing agreements for sports equipment with NCPA Cooperative and Buyboard Cooperative.

• Rejected all bids for mobile radio equipment for first responders.

• Approved $11,588 for Computer-Aided Dispatch software for Springville police. The next meeting of the Springville City Council will be held at 6 p.m. on March 20 with a work session at 5:30 p.m.

Full Moon BBQ

Amerex Fire Wing It On!

Coca-Cola Bottling Company

UNITED, Inc.

G.R. Manufacturing, Inc.

Avadian Credit Union Russo Corporation

Leeds City Hall (Photo by Nathan Prewett)

Gina Burns and officers Brandon Cain, John Key and Maggie Milazzo were commended for service to a local family in need. (Photo by Terry Schrimscher)

Officer Steve Wilson was promoted to Corporal (Photo by Terry Schrimscher)

Officer Justin Rigby was promoted to Corporal (Photo by Terry Schrimscher)

Officer Kevin Stewart was promoted to Sergeant (Photo by Terry Schrimscher)

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

Over the last few months, I’ve written about how inflation, and Federal Reserve policy has impacted both the markets and the economy, and today I have some reasons for optimism to share with our viewers. Call them, “green shoots” if you will.

I see signs that are encouraging to me, that suggest economic conditions may be stabilizing, and that market segments are demonstrating encouraging patterns of behavior. In about six weeks, some of us will begin planting our gardens. For me, that involves a lot of tomatoes. At some point early in the season, you begin to notice the yellow blooms giving way to tiny green balls. It’s exciting to see that fruit is beginning to emerge, but it’s still not time yet to make salsa.

I would suggest to anyone reading this article, that right now, I believe we have several of these tiny green balls that hopefully will turn into ripe tomatoes over the course

of the year. It’s encouraging to see, but the quality of the fruit depends on weather conditions ahead that we aren’t able to predict. Economically and financially speaking, I believe that future policy decisions of the Federal Reserve, and its messaging, are critical weather elements that must be favorable for these promising green shoots to produce a fruitful harvest.

First, let’s take a look at the leading economic indicators. There are 10 of them, and collectively we refer to this as the index of leading economic indicators. It is designed to give you an idea of where we are heading. Many economic indicators, such as gross domestic product for example, are backward looking in nature and they tell you where we have been. Within several of my last videos, I suggested that markets were shocked last year when the Federal Reserve unveiled what turned out to be the most aggressive schedule of tightening in 35 years.

Over the course of last year, I believe that market participants assumed that the potential recession would be

very deep, and very long. Reminiscent of the great recession in 2008. Throughout last year however I suggested that I believed any future recession would be shallow in frequency, and long in duration. I did not believe that another great recession style event would evolve. Indeed, looking at the leading economic indicators today, that seems to be developing. I believe that markets anticipated something much worse than what we are actually experiencing.

If this continues, and indeed the economy is only slightly recessed, I believe that market participants will be compelled to reprice risk in a positive way, if previously made assumptions prove to be incorrect as they pertain to the economy.

The financial conditions index, from the Chicago Federal Reserve, indicates that conditions continue to improve. If that line is going down, it’s a good thing. You can see on the far left of the chart the period of time when COVID significantly impacted financial conditions. Interestingly, to-

day that line seems to be in the same vicinity as it was in March of last year when the Fed began this aggressive schedule of tightening. With regard to inflation, it does appear that at a headline level, it is moving in the right direction. It is still significantly higher than what we would consider to be an average rate, and still higher than the target of the Federal Reserve, but the good news is that it does indeed seem to be moving lower.

In November of last year, the Federal Reserve told us that future policy decisions will be driven by observations of current data, and likely to reflect a less hawkish posture. They never indi-

cated that tightening would cease, but they suggested it could possibly slow down. Since that time, we have had multiple meetings of the Federal Reserve Board itself, as well as the Federal Open Market Committee, and they have reiterated this message since that time.

Inflation is moving in the right direction, but I believe markets have assumed that the Federal Reserve would take a scripted approach to monetary policy without regard for evidence of economic declination. This does not seem to be the case however, and over time, it is my hope that market participants will be inclined to find comfort in the thought that there will be

no significant departure from this less hawkish stance. Shelter is a major component of the consumer price index, and is something that has stubbornly driven elevated levels over previous months. Another green shoot appears to be that “rent equivalents”, which is a proxy for the shelter component in the CPI index, is also moving down in a noticeable way. If this continues, then it should translate into future, increasingly favorable inflation readings.

As far as tangible goods are concerned, it would appear that inflationary forces in this area of the economy are

See FINANCE, Page 9

also trending in the right direction. As I discussed within our last article, according to the Institute for Supply Management, commodities that were reported to be short in supply, and up in price, were both declining significantly.

Unfortunately, the majority of inflationary pressures remain at the food, fuel, energy, and healthcare level. These are beyond the ability of the Federal Reserve to control with a simple rate hike. There is more work to be done with regard to controlling inflation, but we definitely see positive signs that it is trending in the right direction, and because of that, I believe that the Fed will remain committed to the posture they described in November of last year.

I believe they will continue to seek an environment where we have fewer dollars chasing as many goods, while they continue to unwind their balance sheet, and drain lendable reserves from the system, but just at a slower pace than they did last year, and more importantly, at a slower pace than I believe the markets anticipate.

I believe that volatility in the equity and fixed income markets is beginning to subside, however I would caution that this trend will develop over time. Again, markets were shocked last year when the Fed unveiled the most aggressive schedule of tightening that we had seen over the previous 35 years, while simultaneously describing inflation as being short-term, and transient. Rather than discounting the coming years into current valuations, I believe that markets became very shortsighted, and not looking beyond the next 30 days until the subsequent meeting of the Federal Reserve Board.

I do believe however this is beginning to change, and

we can quantify that by taking a stochastic look at sectors of the market. Again, to me this is a green shoot, but it’s encouraging. Any stocastician will tell you that a series of lower lows, and lower highs, is not a good thing. As we have tested the same static Bollinger band for sixth time however, notice on the top part of this chart that it appears a new trend may be beginning, of higher lows and higher highs. It would also appear that the current trend is about to run into a longer term resistance band. The question is, does this momentum continue, and if it does, will it constitute a meaningful breakthrough of that resistance band?

That remains to be seen, but we can take a look at certain market segments and find what I believe to be encouraging signs that this may be the case.

Looking at the financial sector, it would appear that we are indeed staging a breakout through what has been a reasonably long level of resistance, as rising bond yields are seemingly favorable to diversified financials even while the Fed is draining lendable reserves.

Industrials are also showing encouraging signs of what at least seems to be a pattern reversal. Hopefully, this also results in a break-

through of a longer resistance trend, but that remains to be seen.

Taking another look at the broader market, just recently it appears that the S&P 500 crossed both its 50 day moving average, as well as its 200 day moving average, very early into what may be a new trend of higher highs and higher lows. To me, this suggests that markets might be warming up to the thought that it can have faith in the Federal Reserve remaining steadfast in the policy direction given last November. This will take time to unfold, and the key will be consistent messaging and action from the Federal Reserve over the coming months and quarters. But for now, if you’re looking for encouraging signs that market conditions may be changing, I think that we have a few that are worth observation.

Personally, I don’t think that the Federal Reserve will begin cutting rates anytime soon, and I certainly don’t believe that they will consider a subsequent round of quantitative easing. There is still much work in front of the Fed to unwind the balance sheet that remains historically bloated.

I too have heard opinions from within various business media sources that eventually the Federal Reserve will be

inclined to potentially reverse course and began adding to its balance sheet again, and in my opinion, this is just not grounded in reason. The Federal Reserve has only begun to unwind its balance sheet. This unwinding has to be done, or will result in a greater problem than the one they are attempting to solve now.

I do think however this illustrates the gap that remains between market expectations, and reality as it pertains to the future policy of the Federal Reserve. Over time, as economic and financial conditions improve, and the Fed remains steady in pursuing its stated objectives, I believe that these expectations will become more congruent with reality.

Will there be signs or observable evidence that markets are indeed becoming comfortable with the thought that the Federal Reserve won’t shock the markets again as they did last year with an unexpected shift in policy? Yes, I believe so. At a high level, when good news is good news again, that will be a telling sign. Recently, we received a good, but hotter than expected reading from the Labor Department. The good news is that we created many more jobs than the market was expecting to see. The bad news is, that apparently markets anticipat-

ed that the Federal Reserve would respond with a significant shift in policy, in an effort to pour cold water on that development.

Again, I don’t think this is rational thought. The Federal Reserve is trying to avoid stagflation. In order to do that, the economy has to be moving forward. In my opinion, as long as the financial conditions index continues to move in the right direction, and, as we previously observed, metrics of inflation continue to improve, then I don’t believe there is reason to assume that the Federal Reserve will significantly change its policy stance over one, or a few hotter than expected economic reports.

At a very high level, my anticipation is that volatility will remain higher than average for the first half of this year, but if these trends continue to unfold, I believe that in the second half of the year we could see volatility, as measured by the VIX index, returning to more normal levels, as markets are increasingly encouraged to reprice risk in a positive way, because assumptions made about the economy last year might have been overly nefarious.

Again, green shoots. It’s encouraging to see that we have them, but we still need to remain vigilant, and ac-

tively manage portfolios for risk. Pardon the cliché, but this is indeed a marathon and not a sprint. This will not resolve tomorrow, or next month. This is a long-duration event, and we are a long way from the finish line. However, it does appear that we are moving in the right direction. To quote the late Winston Churchill, this is not the beginning of the end, but it may indeed be the end of the beginning.

(*) David R. Guttery, RFC, RFS, CAM, is a financial advisor, and has been in practice for 31 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.

outdoo R s

Alabama State Chapter Receives NWTF Acreage Award

By David Rainer, Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources

At the recent National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) Convention celebrating the 50th anniversary of the organization, the Alabama Chapter received the prestigious Acreage Award for land conservation in the state. In 2022, the NWTF Alabama State Chapter conserved or enhanced more acres than any other state chapter.

“We’re very proud Alabama won the award for conserving the most acres in the country last year,” said NWTF Alabama State Chapter President Craig Harris. “It was right at 146,000 acres. That’s pretty neat on the 50th anniversary to do that.”

Chapter Award, which is presented to state chapters in recognition of their fundraising achievement through banquets, membership recruitment and mission delivery on behalf of the NWTF. Local Alabama chapters were also recognized.

The Auburn University Chapter had the highest net dollars and highest adult membership for college and university chapters, while the Henry County Longbeards and Magic City Limb Hangers joined the Grand Slam Club, and Tuscaloosa and East Alabama made the Royal Slam Club. Clay County and Turkey Heaven were recognized for fundraising, and the South Pickens Limbhangers took the award for the best first-time banquet.

mental in helping states restock to get turkeys to huntable levels.”

Since Sykes became WFF Director 10 years ago, he said the support from the NWTF Alabama State Chapter has made a significant impact. In 1985, NWTF developed its Hunting Heritage Super Fund program to recruit volunteers to conduct banquets and fundraisers to provide funding for conservation projects in their respective states.

happened, we’ve been doing a lot of good things.”

WFF’s Upland Game Bird Coordinator Steven Mitchell echoed Sykes’ sentiments on the impact of the NWTF Alabama State Chapter on the state’s wild turkey habitat.

ing. It affected our ability to hold banquets. But we’ve got some good projects all over the state in conjunction with the ADCNR that should have a great effect.

is reason to highlight the organization’s heritage. When NWTF was formed, there were an estimated 1.3 million turkeys in the U.S. Now, the wild turkey population tops 6 million.

“The NWTF, and specifically the Alabama State Chapter, continue to provide tremendous support to the Department,” Mitchell said. “They are one of our most valued partners and annually help fund many WFF projects.”

That Super Fund model has helped NWTF chapters enhance more than 20 million acres since the initiative was created.

NWTF

co-CEO Kurt Dyroff added, “Our state chapters and their volunteer leadership never cease to amaze me. It is their innovation, collaboration and dedication that have allowed us to reach many milestones. It is an honor to recognize the Indiana and Tennessee state chapters with the Save the Habitat Award as well as the Alabama State Chapter with the Acreage Award, at our 50th anniversary celebration.”

Harris said the work NWTF has done over the past 50 years is mind-boggling, especially since the NWTF Hunting Heritage Super Fund was established in 1985.

“One of the biggest things that stood out to me is the fact we have funded 50,000 Super Fund projects over the years,” Harris said. “That’s just really impressive when you think about it.”

In addition to the Acreage Award, the Alabama State Chapter also received the L.A. Dixon Outstanding State

Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources’ (ADCNR) Chuck Sykes, Director of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries (WFF), attended the 50th anniversary convention in Nashville, and he was impressed by the enthusiasm and record crowd of 67,368 attendees.

“From walking the floors, there were tons of people, tons of families,” Sykes said. “A lot of people were spending money. The vendors had a good show from what I saw. Celebrating 50 years is a milestone for an NGO (non-governmental organization). Not many last that long.

“I’ve been going to the NWTF Convention for 25 years, so probably half of their existence. Long before I became Director, with my consulting business and TV show, I always had a booth at the NWTF Convention because it was my audience. It was hunters, landowners and people wanting to manage habitat for turkeys. In the beginning, NWTF was extremely instru-

“We work with a lot of NGOs,” he said. “I’ll have to say our state chapter of NWTF is as solid a partner as we could ask for, helping us buy equipment, helping us buy land and helping us with some staff positions. They really do put their money where their mouth is. When they first started the Super Fund projects, WMA (wildlife management area) biologists would send in a request for a plow, a sprayer or drip torches. The NWTF would buy them because it was a lot easier to go through an NGO than through the purchasing process. It worked really well.

“After I became Director, I met with Phil Savage, who was the NWTF state president and now a national board member and told him we were leaving money on the table. If we do this a little bit differently, we can have a bigger impact. So, instead of them going out and buying a $1,000 sprayer or $1,000 disc, they would earmark projects they wanted to fund, and they would just write the Department one check. I would make sure the projects they wanted got funded, but that provided a state match for federal funds. So, if they wrote us a check for $25,000, that basically put $100,000 to work on the ground because we could match it three to one. Since that

“Since the inception of the Super Fund, the NWTF has spent $3.2 million on projects across the state,” Mitchell said. “They also created a vehicle specialty tag in 2005, and revenue from those sales funds many projects as well, especially when the number of project requests exceeds the available amount in the Super Fund. They have supported numerous projects – research, trapping equipment, publications, and habitat enhancement projects across the WMA system. Some of the other projects include Archery in the Schools, BOW (Becoming an Outdoors-Woman), trapping workshops and Adult Mentored Hunts.”

Of the $143,000 in Super Fund and tag funds the Alabama Chapter allocated for wild turkey projects in Alabama last August, $35,392 was donated to the WFF to fund projects and the publication of the annual wild turkey report, Full Fans & Sharp Spurs.

“That’s not as much as we normally donate,” Harris said. “The COVID situation just about shut down our fundrais-

“We’re also helping to fund turkey research with Dr. (Will) Gulsby at Auburn and Dr. (Mike) Chamberlain at Georgia. We’re excited about that. Everybody is concerned about the number of turkeys in Alabama as well as other states. We wanted to put an emphasis on doing what we can to see what the problems are and see what can be done.”

Mitchell, who sits on the Alabama State Chapter’s Super Fund committee, said natural resources staff from multiple state and federal agencies, as well as local chapters, submit proposals for projects. The committee then reviews and approves the proposals, many of which are centered on early successional habitat management, including prescribed burning and improving habitat in nesting and brooding areas.

“A testament to the State Chapter’s innovation is the fact the current NWTF Super Fund manual, updated in 2020, includes a Super Fund proposal form developed by our folks in Alabama,” he said. “A lot of these projects would potentially be delayed or not happen at all if we didn’t have their support. Since 1985, the Alabama Chapter has assisted with 39 land purchases for about 40,000 acres added to our WMAs and SOAs (special opportunity areas). Hopefully, in the near future, they’ll have the opportunity to help with adding several thousand more acres.”

Harris said the fact that the NWTF has contributed significantly to the rebound in turkey populations around the nation

“I think the 50th anniversary was an opportunity to celebrate the success we’ve had as we work with all the state agencies all over the United States as far as bringing back turkeys from an almost decimated state to where they are now all over the U.S.,” Harris said. “Restoration of wild turkey is one of the great conservation stories, and NWTF and our partners have been a big part of that.

“I think the passion of the turkey hunter has led to the longevity of the NWTF. The volunteers have been the key to NWTF since it was started 50 years ago by Tom Rogers in Virginia. He was passionate about turkeys and didn’t want to see their habitat destroyed. The volunteers are like a family. That couldn’t have been more evident than two weeks ago in Nashville. I’ve been going to the convention for a long, long time, and I’ve never seen it quite like that before. On Saturday night at the Grand National Auction, there were more than 2,000 people in the room. It was packed.”

However, the NWTF is not content and has set six ambitious goals for its 50th anniversary year: conserve or enhance 1 million acres of wildlife habitat; raise $500,000 for wild turkey research; increase membership to 250,000 members; dedicate $1 million to education and outreach programs; raise $5 million to invest in technology and NWTF’s people; and raise $5 million to build toward a $50 million endowment for the future.

c a L enda R

LifeSouth Blood Drive Wed Mar 8th

10:00am - 3:00pm

Pinson Public Library, 4509 Pinson Blvd, Pinson, AL 35126

the Maple Leaf to stages all over the world, Rebirth is the soundtrack of the Crescent City and her premier musical ambassador.

Founded by brothers Phil and Keith Frazier over 35 years ago, Rebirth began their career playing on the sidewalks of the French Quarter, and quickly landed gigs at second line parades. Those auspicious beginnings have led to thousands of shows to music aficionados everywhere, including heads of state and royalty.

(Adults)

The LifeSouth Blood Mobile will be at Pinson Public Library on Wednesday, March 8th from 10 AM to 3 PM!

T-shirts, snacks, & drinks for all donors. One donation saves 3 lives.

All donors will receive a recognition item & free cholesterol screening. Donors must be 16 or older, weigh at least 110 pounds, & show photo I.D. 16-year-olds require written parental permission to donate. Give blood. Save lives.

Eagle Forum Trussville

March 9 @ 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm

Trussville Civic Center

5381 Trussville-Clay Road

Trussville, AL 35173

Monthly Meeting, 2nd Thursday each month

Melea Stevens will be speaking on Children being addicted to pornography, how it can happens, what you can do to Major reduce the risk and Sex

Trafficking.

Melea will also discuss a Billing being introduced in the Next legislative session about Default filters on new phone purchases, that can be changed if you want them changed, incase children accidentally get grandparents phones or a new iPad.

Ferus Presents:

Rebirth Brass Band

March 18 @ 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm

Trussville Entertainment District

The bands unique “soundtrack of New Orleans” has also garnered admiration from artists of all genres. They’ve shared the stage and collaborated with everyone from the Grateful Dead to the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Maceo Parker, Green Day, U2, James Brown, 311, G-Love, MuteMath, Juvenile, Train, Big Freedia, Ani Difranco, Galactic, Allen Touisant, Neville Brothers, Quincy Jones and Trombone Shorty.

Basic Computer Skillsin partnership with Trussville Senior Center

Wednesday, March 08: 2:00pm - 3:00pm Trussville - Cahaba Room

AGE GROUP: ADULT (AGES 18+)

EVENT TYPE: CLASS

working on; join us for fellowship and creativity.

Call (205) 533-8664

This is a great way to check in, catch up, see what everyone is working on, and get help if you are stuck. Please join usnewcomers are welcome! Join our Facebook group: YARN MANGLERS ANONYMOUS

Pokemon Club

Thursday, March 09: 4:00pm - 5:00pm

Trussville - LBK Auditorium

AGE GROUP: UPPER ELEMENTARY (3RD-5TH) LOWER ELEMENTARY (K-2ND)

ELEMENTARY (K-5TH)

EVENT TYPE: GAME NIGHT, CRAFT, CHILDREN’S PROGRAM

SERVICES

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Are you a fan of Pokémon?

Bring your friends for an hour of playing the card game and watching the show in the library auditorium.

learn more, call 866-475-1014 (M-F 8am-6pm ET).

HEALTH/BEAUTY

ATTENTION OXYGEN THERAPY USERS! Inogen One G4 is capable of full 24/7 oxygen delivery. Only 2.8 pounds. FREE information kit. Call 844-322-9935.

ATTENTION: VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS! A cheaper alternative to high drugstore prices! 50 Pill Special - $99 + FREE Shipping! 100% guaranteed. CALL NOW: 866-5050828.

FOR SALE

DirecTV Satellite TV Service Starting at $59.99/month! Free Installation! 160+ channels available. Call Now to Get the Most Sports & Entertainment on TV! 844-594-7108

protection. Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today. 20% off Entire Purchase. Plus 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-833-683-2005

GENERAC Standby Generators provide backup power during utility power outages, so your home and family stay safe and comfortable. Prepare now. Free 7-year extended warranty ($695 value!). Request a free quote today! Call for additional terms and conditions. 1-877-323-5516

2017 Kubota 2510 tractor with less than 500 hours. Can be seen in Abbeville, AL. Several attachments $32,000 Please call Walter Morse at (518) 534-9363.

GARAGE SALE March 18, 2023, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Location: 6601 Hemlock Street Trussville, Al 35173

Come get a basic digital education at the Trussville Library!

Subjects covered: Terminology, Basic Computer Skills, Windows 11, and Basic Cyber Security.

Children’s Storytime

Thursday, March 09: 10:30am - 11:30am

NEW VENUE Trussville - LBK

Auditorium

AGE GROUP: EARLY

LEARNERS (BIRTH - PRE-K)

EVENT TYPE: STORYTIME, CHILDREN’S PROGRAM

Spend time playing Pokémon or enjoy watching a classic Pokémon show and creating a craft! Kids are welcome to bring their own cards, but staff cannot supervise trading. Parents are welcome to join us at the end of the program to monitor their child’s trading. Extra playing decks will be available for use during the program. This club is open to 1st - 5th grade students. Registration

Required!

Sign language 101 - for Adults & Teens (13 & up)

Thursday, March 09: 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Trussville - Parkway Room

AGE GROUP: TEEN (6TH12TH GRADE) ADULT (AGES

18+)

EVENT TYPE: TEEN PROGRAM, CLASS, ADULT PROGRAM

Sign language for beginners

LONG DISTANCE MOVING: Call today for a FREE QUOTE from America’s Most Trusted Interstate Movers. Let us take the stress out of moving! Speak to a Relocation Specialist, call 844-925-3534

EDUCATION

ATTENTION ACTIVE Duty & Military Veterans! Begin a new career and earn your Degree at CTI! Online Computer & Medical training available for Veterans & Families! To

NEED NEW Flooring? Call Empire Today to schedule a Free in-home estimate on Carpeting and Flooring. Call Today! 1-888-381-0916.

UPDATE YOUR HOME with Beautiful New Blinds & Shades. FREE in-home estimates make it convenient to shop from home. Professional installation. Top qualityMade in the USA. Call for free consultation: 844-809-9165. Ask about our specials!

Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter

AUTOMOTIVE

SUPPORT THE BLIND! Donate a car to the American Council of the Blind. FAST FREE PICKUP. 24-hour response. Running or not. maximum tax deduction and no emission test required! Call 24/7: 844-601-1342.

AUTO INSURANCE from $29 month Free 2-minute Quote! We Compare all Insurance providers offers for you! Lowest Rates! Call Now 866450-0943

Rebirth Brass Band is coming back to Trussville! Free Event

– All Ages

“just saw THE REBIRTH BRASS BAND, unbelievable. hard as hell, free as a ray of light, there is not a band on earth that is better. stunning.”

– Flea, Red Hot Chili Peppers

For almost 4 decades, the Grammy winning Rebirth Brass Band has been “stunning” fans with a fiery live show and a rich musical catalog. Their trademark sound pays homage to the New Orleans brass band tradition while weaving a tapestry that combines elements of jazz, funk, soul, R&B and the sounds from the streets they grew up on. From their legendary 25+ year run of Tuesday nights at

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

Yarn Manglers (Knit & Crochet Group)

Thursday, March 09: 2:00pm - 4:00pm Trussville - Cahaba Room

AGE GROUP: ADULT (AGES 18+)

EVENT TYPE: DROP-IN, CRAFT, ADULT PROGRAM Knitters and crocheters, join us for fellowship and creativity!

Knit & crochet meetup group (aka The Yarn Manglers). Bring any projects you are

Learn the basics of sign language from instructor Nancy Barbara. She will cover the alphabet, numbers, colors, greetings, survival phrases, and culture. This is a 6-part course for adults and teens 13 and up; space is limited, so registration is required.

Storytime for Growin’ Beans with Ms. Allison: Zoo Fri Mar 10th 10:00am - 11:00am

Pinson Public Library, 4509 Pinson Blvd, Pinson, AL 35126

(All ages)

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

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

o bitua R y

Sherry Webster Zorn

august 21, 1948 — february 22, 2023

Blountsville

Sherry Webster Zorn passed away February 22 at the age of 74.

Sherry was born to the late Floyd and Mary Lou Webster on August 21, 1948.

She grew up in Chalkville, Al, attending Hewitt Trussville High School.

Her life long career spanned years meeting insurance needs primarily through Alfa Insurance Co.

Sherry had a passion and true gifting for art. She was an avid painter, a talented quilter and seamstress, quite a cook and homemaker as well. She enjoyed sharing her various works with family and friends, and loved opportunities to teach these things to her grandchildren and mark special occasions with a variety of her pieces. She also enjoyed time with her family, especially her sisters, and her friends.

She was part of the faith community at Arab Baptist Church. Most importantly, she had faith in Christ.

Sherry is predeceased by her parents, and brother Floyd Douglass Webster (Judy). She is survived by her husband Mike Zorn of Blountsville, her brother Charles Webster (Carolyn), sisters Audria Lowe and Aylia Shadix all of the Clay/Chalkville area, sons Alan Spooner (Melanie) and Dan Spooner (Suzie) of Birmingham, stepson Mark Zorn (Allison) of Hayden, and grandchildren Benjamin, Claire and Emily Spooner, Peyton and Wade Spooner, and Dylan Scoggins, Mia and Brinley Zorn, and many nieces and nephews. A visitation will be held at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home in Trussville, Al., on Monday, February 27, from 4-7 pm, and a private family service the following day.

Donald Leo Taylor

september 13, 1938 — february 23, 2023

Pamela Taylor

november 5, 1943 — february 23, 2023

Trussville, Alabama

Donald Leo and Pamela Thompson Taylor, joined in marriage for 61 years, together left their earthly home in Trussville, Alabama on February 23, 2023.

Mr. Taylor age 84 is the son of Violet Harris Taylor & Leo Taylor, both of whom preceded him in death. Mr. Taylor was also a graduate of Woodlawn High School, attended Auburn University & honorably served in the US Air Force Reserves. Mr. Taylor had an extensive career in sales, the last of which was Rickwood Radio prior to his retirement. An avid car enthusiast, Mr. Taylor spent many hours rebuilding classic cars, enjoying NASCAR races but most of all, Auburn football.

Mrs. Taylor, age 79 is the daughter of Ludie Ramsey Thompson & G. Herschel Thompson, both of whom preceded her in death. A graduate of Woodlawn High School, Mrs. Taylor excelled in her studies & artistic talents. She went on to enjoy a successful career with South Central Bell. Upon her retirement she devoted herself to her greatest joy; that of being a mother & grandmother.

Mr. & Mrs. Taylor were blessed with one daughter, Natalie Taylor Motley who along with her husband, Butch Motley of Trussville gave them the ultimate gift of two granddaughters, Ramsey Claire Motley & Landry Elaine Motley, both students at their beloved Auburn University. In addition to their daughter, son-in-law & granddaughters, the Taylors are survived by Mrs. Taylor’s sister, Carol Thompson Powers of Trussville. Both Mr. & Mrs. Taylor have a number of nieces, nephews & extended family members. Visitation will be held at Jefferson Memorial Chapel on Friday, March 3rd at 11:00 am with a graveside service to immediately follow at Jefferson Memorial’s adjoining cemetery.

In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to St Judes Children’s Hospital or a charity of your choosing. The family would like to give a special thanks to Marcus Cates and Cornerstone Caregiving and Enhabit Hospice of Pell City for their excellent care and compassion shown to Donald and Pamela.

AskEddie

The last thing you want is to feel overwhelmed by practical and logistical concerns. That’s the primary reason most individuals coordinate memorial and burial services through a local funeral home. Your funeral director can handle the practicalities on your behalf, giving you the time and space you need to mourn and spend time with your family.

Indeed, your funeral director will handle logistical issues you may not have even thought of and shouldn’t have to - transporting your loved one, ensuring the gravesite is ready for the burial, coordinating with the cemetery owner, and more. As you think about working with a funeral director, consider these pragmatic concerns that can effectively be taken off your plate.

Something else to consider is that the FTC requires funeral homes to provide you with a list of prices for each separate servicemeaning you have the right to choose which funeral services you want and which ones you don’t. As such, you can decide to conduct a vigil or graveside service but still enlist a funeral home to help move the body, ensure the proper casket, etc.

Galen Lilja

july 26, 1931 — february 24, 2023

Pell City

Galen Lilja, 91, passed away on February 24, 2023, in Pell City, AL.

Galen Lilja was born on July 26, 1931 near Windom, KS and was one of four children.

Galen worked for Royal Typewriter as a service manager/technical instructor. He opened his own business; Eagle Business Machines in Center Point, AL. After he sold his business, he finished his career at Brookwood Hospital helping with office equipment.

Galen was best known for his friendliness and made friends easily. He was a big Crimson Tide fan and liked to travel and play golf.

Galen also served in the Navy from 1949 - 1950 on the USS Cavalier. He was honorably discharged to help on his family farm.

Galen is survived by his son, Bradley Lilja of Fort Wayne, IN, daughter, Janice VanHorn (Alan) of Pell City, grandsons Dustin Lilja (Melissa) Newburgh, IN; Chad Leverett (Melissa) of Pelham; Jared Leverett (Amber) of Pell City; Jasen Ericksen (Jesica) of Anchorage,AK and Jessika Ericksen of Bowling Green, KY. He was very proud of his great grandchildren. Talon and Finnly Lilja, Will Leverett, Adyson and Braylyn Leverett and Michael Angelo and Jolene Espiritu (Jasen Ericksen)

Galen is preceded in death by his loving wife, Vada Jo Lilja, and by his daughters, Vickie Ericksen, Amy Lilja.

A memorial service will be held at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home on March 18th, 2023 at 12:00 PM. The family will receive friends prior to the service from 11:00 AM until service time.

Burial will take place immediately following the memorial service in Jefferson Memorial Gardens East.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Galen Lilja, please visit our flower store. Make a donation to Wounded Warrior Project in memory of Galen Lilja

Myra Carroll

august 22, 1937 — february 23, 2023

Trussville

Myra Carroll, 85, of Trussville, Al, passed away on February 23, 2023. Myra is survived by her daughter- Sandy Malchus (Kenny); son-Greg Carroll (Deana); her grandchildren- Cassie Malchus Thomson (Dave), Brittney Malchus Dunham (Jake), Maegan Carroll Reynolds (Justin), Geoff Carroll, Logan Creel, Collin Smith, Trevor Smith, her great-grandchildrenCampbell Thomson, Riggs Thomson, Ella Mae Reynolds, Rush Reynolds, Rip Reynolds, Landry Dunham and Gentry Dunham.

Myra is preceded in death by her parents Carrell Judson Byars and Missouri Amanda Edge Byars; her husbands, , G.W. Carroll, and Robert Mize; her son, Ted Smith, and daughter, Sonyedda Creel.

Myra attended Hewitt Trussville High School. After High School, she began her career in the restaurant industry with her husband, G.W. Carroll. They opened Big G's BBQ in 1976 and enjoyed serving the people of Trussville for many years. She was a faithful member of Clearbranch Methodist Church. She enjoyed working in her yard, quilting, crossword puzzles and coloring. She was devoted to her family. She was a humble servant of Jesus Christ.

A celebration of life for Myra will be held Tuesday, March 7, 2023 at Clearbranch Methodist Church with Pastor Vaughn Stafford leading the service. The family will receive friends and extended family from 3:00pm to 4:00pm and the service will begin at 4:00pm.

In lieu of flowers the family would appreciate donations to be made to Clearbranch Methodist Church's HandyMan Ministry. ( Clearbranch.org )

Charles Brown

december 27, 1941 — february 24, 2023

Charles “Charlie” W. Brown, age 81, of Ashville, Alabama, passed away on February 24, 2023. He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward H. Brown and Vida Brown Self and his wife, Linda Houser Brown. He is survived by his son, Tracy Brown, granddaughter, Chloe Pence Brown, sister, Fay (Thomas) Simmons and brother Ray (Judy) Brown. Charlie was especially close with his great nephew, Noah Houser and great niece, Anna Houser Pomeroy. He enjoyed Alabama football, fishing, Sunday dinners with his granddaughter, working on small jobs around the house with his brother and joking with his sister. He was most recently employed with Keystone Foods and was a Veteran. His visitation will be held at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home on Monday, March 6th from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. The funeral service for Charlie will follow at 2:00 p.m. at Jefferson Memorial’s Chapel with Burial at their adjoining gardens. The family asks that in honor and memory of Charlie all guests wear something blue.

Joy Silvey

august 2, 1932 — february 26, 2023

Joy O. Silvey, age 90 of Springville, formerly of Trussville, passed away on Sunday, February 26, 2023. Mrs. Silvey was preceded in death by her husband of 68 years, Arthur Myron Silvey; parents Gladys O. Jones and Evie C. Overstreet; sisters, Orene Martin, Jean Blythe, and Virginia Cornelius; son, Gary M. Silvey and daughter, T. Darlene Vann. Mrs. Silvey is survived by her brother Mike Jones(Ira); daughter Kay McCullars(David); grandchildren, Brook Jackson, Jason Lewallen(Ashlee), Ashley Haley(Justin), and David McCullars Jr.; great-grandchildren, Emily and Blake Jackson, Austin Lewallen, Madison and Chase Haley. Mrs. Silvey was born in Birmingham Al, and was a graduate of Woodlawn High School. She was a former member of First Baptist Church Trussville where she served in WMU, taught Sunday School and was a member and soloist in the adult choir. She was a current member of Deerfoot Baptist Church where she was a member of the Joy Sunday School Class. Mrs. Silvey was a faithful servant to the Lord, her family, friends and neighbors. The family wishes to thank the doctors and nurses at TLC Rehab and St. Vincent's East Hospital ER and the 6th floor north side.

Grace Mixon

march 6, 1935 — february 25, 2023

Birmingham

Grace Annette Martin Mixon, age 87 of Birmingham, AL passed away on February 25, 2023. She was a member of Huffman Church of Christ for 53 years. She graduated from Phillips High School where she enjoyed being a poet. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother.

She is preceded in death by her parents, William Clarence and Grace Worthington Martin, her sister, Peggy Joyce Graham, and her brothers, William Donald Martin, Howard Eugene Martin, Sr. and Jerry Wayne Martin and her grandson, Brock Adam Mixon.

She is survived by her husband, Billy R. Mixon, son, Billy R. Mixon, Jr. and great granddaughter, Hannah Blake Robson.

The family would like to thank the Rehab at East Glenn Nursing Home and the ICU staff at St. Vincent East Hospital. In lieu of flowers donations to Huffman Church of Christ.

Dorcas Rice

december 14, 1932 — february 23, 2023

Dorcas Rice of Fallston, MD, passed away peacefully in her sleep in the early morning of February 23, 2023. Beloved wife of the late Charles H Rice, she is survived by her son, Lyle G Rice and daughter, Debra Rice O'Shea and her husband, Chris and her granddaughters, and their husbands, Kelly (Roger) & Megan Jason), and Caitlin Armstrong, and her great-grandsons, Harley & Cyrus, two sister's-in-laws and many nieces, and nephews, and their families. She was born Dorcas Christine Karnes on December 14, 1932, in Mt. Vernon, Kentucky to Alfred Grant Karnes and Flora Etta Harris Karnes. The funeral for Ms. Rice will be held at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home in Trussville, AL on Thursday March

will

and

JeffMem.AskEddie’20 5.3”x10”

Jefferson Memorial is a full-service funeral home and perpetual care cemetery dedicated to serving our community with dignity and compassion.

one

Springville bests rival Moody, 5-1

By Johnny Sanders Sports Editor

MOODY

– On Tuesday

night, Springville and Moody renewed their rivalry on the diamond at Moody High School.

The Blue Devils were riding high after 3 consecutive wins while Springville was reeling from going 0-2 in a double-header at Arab on Saturday. However, the Tigers were not interested in the past. They were looking forward and beating their biggest rival was in their crosshairs. They did not miss.

The first inning was scoreless as pitchers Brady Gillespie (Springville) and Bryant Hardin (Moody) went toe to toe to start the game out with no runs for either team.

Springville, however, would explode in the second inning, scoring 4 of their 5 total runs. The first came when Zach Brown was hit by a pitch with the bases loaded, bringing Brady Gillespie to the plate for the first run of the game. Tanner Oakes would hit a single up the middle to drive in Kade Willis and Carter Samuelson, making it 3-0 Tigers with 2 outs in the second inning. Asa Morrison singled next to bring in Brown and make it 4-0 before a Jacob Bailey line drive was caught by Moody’s Kolby Seymour to stop the bleeding and end the inning with Springville in the lead 4-0.

Moody would find no success in the third and Springville would get just one run in the

Lady Blue Devils whip John Carroll, 7-2

By Johnny Sanders Sports Editor

MOODY – After starting the season with 4 straight losses, the Moody Blue Devils softball team looked to get things on track this week. They got the ball rolling, so to speak, against JB Pennington on Monday with a 13-0 thrashing of the Tigers. The encore for the week was a 7-2 victory over the John Carroll Cavaliers on Tuesday evening.

inning, scored by Kevin Jones who was pinch running for Gillespie. In the fourth, Moody would get their lone run from a Chase Marshall home run on a 2-0 pitch from Gillespie.

Bryant Hardin had 9 strike outs but allowed 5 hits in 4 innings of play for the Blue Devils. Colby Graves came in for the final two innings of the game in relief.

For Springville, left-hander Brady Gillespie allowed just 3 hits and one run in four innings, striking out two batters. Kade Willis came in to relieve him, throwing the final two innings. Springville is now 3-2 and will play their next game at home against Moody. Moody finds itself 3-1 heading to Pell City on Wednesday.

Moody got all 3 Cavalier batters out in the first inning before stepping to the plate themselves, behind the pitching of Bella Turley. John Carroll walked the first two Moody batters, Alex Harvard and Kennedy Hockman before Kendall Trimm laid down a sacrifice bunt to put runners on second and third. Libby Higgins struck out and then Taylor Rogers hit a pop fly that resulted in a John Carroll error, driving in Harvard and putting runners at the corners. H Forester would get walked to load the bases, but Abi Gray grounded into a fielder’s choice to end the inning at 1-0.

After 2 scoreless innings in the second and third, the Moody bats woke up and the Blue Devils put 5 runs on the scoreboard. Forester

and Gray got on base, each with singles to start off the inning. John Carroll got the next two batters out before walking Harvard. Hockman hit a single up the middle and brought Gray home. Now Moody had 2 runners on as Trimm approached the plate. After watching 2 balls and fouling one off, Trimm crushed the ball over the left field wall to bring everyone in and put Moody up 6-0

over the Cavaliers. John Carroll scored 2 runs in the sixth to close the gap a bit, but Moody would put another run on the board to secure the 5-point win. The 2-game winning streak improves the Blue Devils from 0-4 to 2-4 and gives them some momentum as they head into a rematch with the team that started this streak for them, JB Pennington, on Monday.

Springville's Brady Gillespie (Photo by Nannette Crocker Hill)

Stock Photo

Springville softball blow out Pelham, continue dominant season

By Johnny Sanders Sports Editor

SPRINGVILLE – The Springville Lady Tigers are having quite the season early on, winning their first 6 games of the season, most of those by large margins, with the closest game being a season-opening win at Saint Clair County 4-2. The Tigers beat Pleasant Grove on their field on February 24th by a score of 5-0 and after that, all of the other games have been double-digit wins for Springville. Tuesday evening was no different, as they welcomed the Pelham Panthers to Springville and whipped

them 14-1.

Springville started the scoring early by putting 2 hits on the board in the first inning. In her first at-bat, Bella Bullington hit a single that would drive in both runs.

Over the next two innings, the Tigers would rack up 7 more runs to make it 9-0 after just three innings. The fourth inning would be the most productive for Springville, scoring 5 runs to complete the 14-point effort over Pelham.

Bullington was the winning pitcher for Springville, throwing 2 innings and allowing two hits and no runs while striking out two and walking none. Georgia Chan-

Mounties get payback against the Indians

By John Goolsby For the Tribune

IRONDALE – Shades Valley (5-3) avenged an early season loss to the Wetumpka Indians (5-4) with a 7-6 victory Monday night.

“This is the day you get your lick back,” was the message from Shades Valley Head Coach Darryl Dunbar to his team Monday night.

The Mounties won the game in dramatic fashion. With the game tied at 6-6 in the bottom of the seventh inning, Jacob Mahand hit a game-winning RBI to score Jacaryous Burrow.

The Indians got on the board first with a run in the first inning on an error. Valley tied the game on an RBI by Mahand that scored Burrow. Mahand then scored on an error to give the Mounties a 2-1 lead after one inning.

In the third inning, Wetumpka tied the score on another Mountie error. The Mounties then went up by two runs, 4-2, on a second Indian error that scored Burrow and Avery Prichard.

cellor finished the game out, throwing three innings out of the bullpen and allowing just the one run.

Almost all hitters got a hit in the game and most of them had at least one RBI. Springville tallied 14 runs on 14 hits in the game and Shelby Hathcock had a solo home run in the second. Layla Bradshaw, Ashlyn Cooley and Emmy Leopard led the team with 2 hits each.

The Panthers’ only score would come in the fourth inning, making the final 14-1.

Springville improves to 6-0 and has a long break before they head to Fairview on Tuesday, February 7.

The fourth inning saw Wetumpka add two runs on two RBIs, and Valley’s Izzy Davis scored on yet another error by the visiting team. The Mounties led 5-4 as the two teams headed to the fifth inning.

The Mounties, with two men on in the bottom of the fifth inning, were threatening to extend their lead, but the Indians turned a nifty double-play to keep the game a one-run affair.

Wetumpka then put two quick runs on the board in the top of the sixth inning to take a 6-5 lead. With one out, Prichard came on in relief of Steven Manley. The Indians were retired after an infield pop fly and a strike-

out by Prichard. The Mounties tied the game at 6-6 after Timothy Nelson scored on a wild pitch.

Prichard kept the Indians off the board with a po fly and two strikeouts in the top of the seventh to set the Mounties up for the exciting finish.

Manley got the win for the Mounties. The righthander threw 90 pitches in five and a third innings, al-

ADVERTISEMENT FOR PREQUALIFICATION AND BIDS

lowed six runs, seven hits, and had five strikeouts. Prichard threw 28 pitches in relief and didn’t allow a hit or run. The Mounties had six hits on the night and Wetumpka had seven. Prichard went 2-for-3 at the plate, Burrow scored three runs and Mahand had two RBIs, including the game winner. The Mounties travel to Jackson-Olin Tuesday night.

PREQUALIFICATION PROPOSALS will be received digitally, as described in the official prequalification proposal requirements, on behalf of the Owner by TURNERBATSON Architects at 1950 Stonegate Drive, Suite 200, Birmingham, AL 35242, for the below referenced project, until 5:00 PM Local Time, March 17, 2023. Faxed or late submittals will not be accepted. The prequalification procedure is intended to identify responsible and competent bidders relative to the requirements of the Project. Prequalification proposal requirements may be obtained from the Architect by contacting Wil Bradford, wbradford@turnerbatson.com, 205.403.6201. Additional qualifications and requirements for Bidders are indicated in the Bid and Contract Documents. In reviewing the submittals, emphasis will be placed on your firm’s experience with projects similar in size and type to this project.

A written list of Contractors receiving prequalification will be issued to all who requested consideration by 5:00 PM Local Time, March 20, 2023.

PRE-BID CONFERENCE will be held at 9:00 am Local Time, Wednesday, March 22, 2023 in the City of Trussville Conference Room located at 131 Main Street Trussville, AL 35173. Attendance by all Prequalified Bidders is mandatory in order to avoid disqualification.

SEALED PROPOSALS will be received only from previously PRE-QUALIFIED Contractors by the City of Trussville, AL, located at 131 Main Street Trussville, AL 35173 until 2:00 PM Local Time, Thursday, March 30, 2023 for this project:

Site Development Package for TRUSSVILLE FIRE STATION NO. 4 5540 Trussville-Clay Road Trussville, Alabama 35173 for The City of Trussville, AL at which time and place they will be publicly opened and read.

A cashier’s check or bid bond payable to the City of Trussville, AL in an amount not less than five (5) percent of the amount of the bid, but in no event more than $10,000, must accompany the bidder's proposal. Performance and statutory Labor and Material Payment Bonds, and insurance in compliance with requirements, will be required at the signing of the Contract. Final bid documents (Plans, Specifications, and Addenda) will be sent to prequalified Contractors only from TURNERBATSON electronically with no deposit on March 20, 2023. Drawings and Specifications may be examined at local plan rooms. Subcontractors should contact a Contractor or plan room for documents.

Only Contractors who have completed the prequalification process within the stated time limits, and which are properly licensed in accordance with criteria established by the State Licensing Board for General Contractors under the Provision of Title 34, Chapter 8, Code of Alabama, 1975, as amended, will be considered for prequalification for the work of this project. For questions regarding this project, please contact TURNERBATSON Project Manager, Wil Bradford, at wbradford@turnerbatson.com.

Per the Owner and the Alabama Department of Revenue (ADOR), Act 2013-205, the project will be bid EXCLUDING TAXES.

The Owner reserves the right to reject any or all proposals, to waive technical errors and/or abandon the prequalification and bid process if, in their judgment, the best interests of the Owner will thereby be promoted.

City of Trussville, AL

113 North Chalkville Road

Trussville, AL 35173

TURNERBATSON Architects

1950 Stonegate Drive, Suite 200 Birmingham, AL 35242 Phone: (205) 403-6201

Stock Photo

Shades Valley's Jacob Mahand prepares to bat.

(Photo by BLS Photography)

Hewitt softball drops second straight in lowscoring loss to Pell City

By Johnny Sanders Sports Editor

PELL CITY – After a 3-1 start, the Hewitt Trussville Lady Huskies softball team find itself in the midst of a 2-game skid with losses to Hoover and Pell City this past week. Tuesday’s game against Pell City was what many would passionately refer to as a pitcher’s duel with the Panthers pulling out the 3-2 win in dramatic fashion, scoring the winning run in the bottom of the eight inning.

Hewitt struck first blood in the opening inning of the game after Hannah Dorsett was on third as the result of a stolen base and Olivia Faggard hit a single to left field, driving in the runner and putting the Huskies up 1-0 in the first.

Both teams would hold serve for the next two innings, but in the fourth, each team would get some offensive traction. Hewitt’s Zaylen Tucker would get on base after a ground ball single to shortstop and she would advance to second base after a Pell City error. After the next two batters were struck out

Moody breaks skid with weekend sweep of Clay Chalkville

By Johnny Sanders Sports Editor

MOODY

– The Blue Devils baseball team came into Saturday’s double-header licking their wounds from two straight losses, looking to rebound as they hosted the Cougars from Clay Chalkville. And rebound they did. In the two games combined, the Cougars managed just 6 runs, which doesn’t sound all that bad. However, when you take into account that Moody put 35 runs on the scoreboard, it looks a lot worse.

by the Panthers, H Dorsett went to the plate and drove in Tucker to put the Huskies up 2-0 before Pell City came up to bat. The Panthers would even the score before the inning was over, scoring two runs. The score would stay 2-2 until the eighth inning. In the eighth inning, the Huskies would fail to score a run while giving up one to Pell City to seal the deal for the Panthers and give the

Huskies their second loss in a row.

Zaylen Tucker was the pitcher for the Huskies and tallied an impressive 23 outs in the game while Hannah Dorsett was the star at the plate, going 3 for 3 hitting.

The Lady Huskies, now 3-3, look to rebound on Saturday in tournament play at home against North Jackson and Tuscaloosa County on Saturday morning.

Baseball This Week:

Clay Chalkville (1-10 as of

3/7): Won 11-3 at Shades valley 2/28; Lost 20-1 and 15-5 at Moody3/4.

Hewitt Trussville (9-2 as of 3/7): Won 10-0 against Wetumpka on 2/28; Won 11-1 and 5-0 against Gadsden City on 3/2; Won 11-1 over Mortimer Jordan on 3/6.

Pinson Valley (1-3 as of

3/7): Lost 5-4 at Shelby Coun-

ty on 3/4. Moody (5-3 as of 3/7): Lost 5-1 to Springville on 2/28; Lost 4-1 at Pell City on 3/1; Won 20-1 and 15-5 against Clay Chalkville on 3/4; Lost 2-1 at Springville on 3/6.

Leeds (4-7 as of 3/7): Lost 11-3 at St Clair County on 2/28; Lost 4-1 to Vincent on 3/3; Lost 10-5 to Oak Grove on 3/4; Won 14-2 at Oak

Grove on 3/6.

Springville (4-4 as of 3/7): Lost 3-2 and 4-1 at Mortimer Jordan on 3/4; Won 2-1 against Moody on 3/6.

Center Point (1-0 as of 3/7): No scores this week.

Shades Valley (5-3 as of 3/7): Lost 11-3 to Clay Chalkville on 2/28; Won 18-8 at Minor on 3/1; Won 7-6 over Wetumpka on 3/6.

In game one, the Cougars jumped out to an early 1-0 lead in the top of the first inning, but the Blue Devils would dominate from there, scoring 4 runs in the bottom of the first. The second inning would be where Moody would do their most damage as they put 14 runs on the board in that inning alone. Clay just never got anything going and Moody scored 1 run in the third and fourth innings, ending game one with a 20-1 win over the Cougars.

Landon Cherry got the win in game 1, pitching 3 innings and allowing just one run and one hit while striking out 5 batters. Thomas Taylor re-

lieved Cherry, throwing two innings and allowing no runs for the Cougars.

After the blowout loss, the Clay Chalkville Cougars looked to have a better outing in the second game of the double-header but never got anything going. Clay hung tough, allowing just 1 run in the first inning, but the bats would stay cold for the Cougars as they did not score for the first four innings. Moody, however, had fire flowing from their bats as they scored 4 in the second and 2 in the third before going scoreless in the fourth. The fifth inning would be the most successful for each team as Clay put 5 runs on the board and Moody added 8 to their run total, leading to a 15-5 Blue Devil win.

Pitching 2 innings and allowing no hits nor runs, Bourne Grant picked up the win for Moody while Travis Shi came in to relieve him after 2 innings.

Moody Coach Eamonn Kelly said of his team’s performance, “We had a good day at the plate. We were also able to get some guys some innings on the mound to help continue building depth. Overall, we swung it well and we were able to capitalize on that.”

Moody moves to 5-2 on the season while Clay Chalkville falls to 1-10. The Blue Devils look to keep the momentum going on Tuesday as they head to Springville on Monday. The Cougars look to get some traction on the 2023 season as they welcome McAdory to Clay.

Softball This Week:

Clay Chalkville (2-9 as of 3/7): Lost 10-0 at Ramsay 2/28; Lost 18-0 to Mountain Brook on 3/1.

Hewitt Trussville (6-4 as of 3/7): Lost 3-2 at Pell city 2/28; Won 7-5 over North Jackson on 3/4; Lost 2-1 to Tuscaloosa County on 3/4; Won 16-3 over Austin on 3/4; Won 10-4 over

Hillcrest on 3/4.

Pinson Valley (2-8 as of 3/7): No scores this week Moody (5-5 as of 3/7): Won 7-2 over John Carroll on 2/28; Won 7-2 over Opelika on 3/3; Won 8-6 over Rehobeth on 3/3; Lost 12-10 to Enterprise on 3/4; Won 17-0 at JP Pennington on 3/6.

Leeds (0-3 as of 3/7): Lost 9-2 against Gardendale on 3/1. Springville (6-0 as of 3/7): Won 14-1 at Pelham on 2/28. Center Point (1-2 as of 3/7): Lost at Fultondale 35-21 Shades Valley (3-6 as of 3/7): Lost 13-9 at Dora on 2/28; Lost 14-8 at Ramsay on 3/6.

Olivia Faggard takes a pitch for Hewitt Trussville (Photo by Bobby Mathews)

Photo by Ron Burkett

Tigers continue to have Blue Devils’ number on the diamond, win 2-1

By Johnny Sanders Sports Editor

SPRINGVILLE – The

Springville Tigers and Moody

Blue Devils have played twice this year and, despite Moody having the better overall record, the Tigers have won both of the meetings between these two rivals this season, winning the latest edition of the rivalry game on Monday evening by a single run, 2-1.

Springville drew first blood in the first inning when Kade Willis drove in a waiting Kevin Jones to left field with 2 outs on a 2-0 count. Moody wouldn’t score in the first but in the second they got on the board when Brady Dodd hit a double to center field, driving in Carson

Mitchell to even the score.

In the third, Springville would score what would wind up being the winning run when Willis got his second, and the team’s second, RBI of the night. This time Willis would drive in pinch-runner Jake Conner for the go-ahead score.

The pitcher’s duel would continue for the remainder of the game as Springville’s Kade Willis nudged out Moody’s Brady Dodd. Zach Brown relieved Willis for the last two innings, recording the final six outs for the Tigers while Peyton Isbell came in to relieve Dodd for the Blue Devils, throwing one and one-third innings.

“Our win last night was big for us, especially after

two close losses to Mortimer Jordan,” said Springville coach Jonathan Ford. “Our guys seem to find a way against Moody recently. Neither team hit real well last night but we were able to scratch one more across and I gues that is what counts in the end. We have a really young group this time and we are learning a lot and gaining experience each time we go out there.”

Ford continued, “Kade Willis got the win going 5 innings and allowing only 1 run. He also led at the plate with 3 hits. Brady Gillespie had a big hit in the first to lead to a run. Zach Brown came in to pitch the last two and earn the save to secure the win.”

Brady Gillespie – Springville Baseball

Springville's Zach Brown (7) and Kade Willis (23) take the field. (Photo by Nannette Crocker Hill)