The Trussville Tribune – April 14 - 20, 2021

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Clay Council receives audit report, Cosby Lake fishing resumes

Husky teams honored and Windsong residents speak out once again at Trussville City Council meeting

CLAY – David Cork, of Cork, Hill & Company L.L.C, presented the city of Clay’s 2019-2020 audit report to the Clay City Council on Tuesday, April 13, 2021.

“The city had another good year this year,” Cork said.

See CLAY COUNCIL, Page 5

JefCoEd students to receive weekend meals for remainder of school year From The Tribune staff reports

JEFFERSON COUNTY — Students in the Jefferson County School District now have access to healthy meal options seven days a week.

See WEEKEND MEALS, Page 5

New nonprofit aiming to add murals in the city of Trussville

By Erica Thomas, managing editor

TRUSSVILLE — There is a new effort to bring color into Trussville. Gray Car Murals, a non-profit 501(c)(3), was established with the goal of installing murals throughout the city.

See MURALS, Page 4

Attorney General Steve Marshall honors fallen Kimberly police officer Nick O’Rear From The Tribune staff reports

KIMBERLY — Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall joined the parents of fallen Kimberly police officer Nick O’Rear for a law enforcement ceremony on Tuesday.

See KIMBERLY OFFICER, Page 7

By Erica Thomas, managing editor

TRUSSVILLE — The Trussville City Council honored the Hewitt-Trussville High School Girls Basketball Team with a proclamation during its regular meeting on Tuesday, March 13, 2021.

The Lady Huskies finished their 2020-21 season with a school-best 29-5 record. Coaches and players from the team were invited to the council meeting Tuesday night to hear the reading of the proclamation. The team made it all the way to the state championship, senior guard Amiya Payne earned the Alabama Sports Writers Association 1st Team All-State Honors, among others, and several other players including freshman guard Jordan Hunter and sophomore guard April Hooks were also named in the proclamation for their many accomplishments as athletes.

The 2020-21 Hewitt-Trussville High School Girls Basketball Team was honored during the Trussville City Council’s regular meeting on Tuesday, March 13, 2021.

Councilor Lisa Bright read the proclamation and thanked the team for attending the meeting.

“We’re thrilled to have our girls here and their Coach [Tanya} Hunter here as well,” said Bright. “What a season they have had this year last year as well. We just want to take this time to honor you.”

The proclamation was approved unanimously.

The Boys Basketball Team (12 and under), coached by Paul Phelps, which won the state championship, was also honored during the meeting.

Council President Alan Taylor introduced the members of the team.

“Guys, congratulations and thank you for representing Trussville so well,” said Taylor.

This was the team’s first state championship in history.

TUE

69 43

April 14 - 20, 2021

By Crystal McGough

SUN MON

Girls Flag Football

Page 11

50 Cents Moody Council votes on economic development project amendment, hears from St. Clair EDC

By Nathan Prewett

MOODY — At a regular meeting on Monday, April 12, the Moody City Council held a public hearing for the amendment of the 2013 CDBG Economic Development Project.

ACTA During public comment, Mike Rowe, with ACTA, made a presentation on future goals for the theater organization. Rowe said there are three things that need to be addressed in order for ACTA to accomplish its goals. Those areas of need have been identified as education, promotion, and venue. The ACTA board plans to create a marketing committee and partner with schools to promote theater and shows. The board also wants to increase the number of shows.

“As much as we love that building there, we are at the point where we probably feel like we have outgrown the existing facility,” said Rowe.

ACTA is asking the city to help with options for storage and to partner with the board to address facility limitations and possibly consider building a new facility.

Man charged with drug trafficking after Trussville police find 1.6 pounds of cocaine in vehicle

See TRUSSVILLE COUNCIL, Page 8

See TRAFFICKING, Page 3

Big ‘little red wagon’ turning heads on Trussville roads

See MOODY COUNCIL, Page 2

Trussville native turning internet fame into positive message

By Erica Thomas, managing editor

TRUSSVILLE — If you’ve been out and about lately, you may have noticed an interesting vehicle on the roadways. Kasey Graydon’s Radio Flyer wagon has been rolling through town and turning heads.

Graydon, who owns 5k Autos happened upon this unique vehicle and he had to have it.

The wagon was built by Keith Reed, of Snead, and his grandson, John Alan Schaefer. They built it from a 1998 two-door Ford Explorer.

“Him and his grandson just cut the top off of it, took the seats out of it and everything and then they put fiberglass all the way around,” said Graydon. “He used a projector on the logo to hand-trace it. He put that giant handle on the front and it just looks like a big Radio Flyer wagon.”

Graydon bought the treasured vehicle and before he knew it, he heard from a car museum in California.

“Through the grapevine with all the car dealers I know

See VIRAL VIDEOS, Page 4

from all over the country, this guy called me and wanted it,” Graydon said.

The guy is Phillip Koperdowski. He has a warehouse full of unique vehicles in Los Angeles, and he opens his collection as a museum in the fall.

Graydon has been driving the wagon around, when weather permits, since he bought it in January.

“We’ve been driving it around and having fun,” said Graydon. “I feel like San-

ta Claus and I have to wave at everybody. There is a lot of rubber-necking, people pulling over and taking pictures. The first time I drove it, I went to the Shell station on Deerfoot Parkway to put gas in it and there were people there taking pictures with it and smiling and waving.

You have to make sure your hair looks good before you go out in it because everybody’s looking at you.”

He has even picked his

kids up at school in the wagon. He said the first time he brought it to Cahaba Elementary, kids swarmed around it and hopped inside.

“There was a lot of shock and awe,” he said. “It makes anybody at any age smile.”

Graydon said he wanted to rent out the vehicle but since it had a Radio Flyer logo on it, the company would not allow him to do rentals.

See RED WAGON, Page 5

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St. Clair Savalife hosting fundraising concert featuring Mark Schulz From The Tribune staff reports

SPRINGVILLE — St. Clair Savalife, a pregnancy care center, is hosting a benefit concert to entertain and raise money for the organization.

See SAVALIFE, Page 5

The Trussville Tribune

Page 2

The

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

Erik Harris, Sports Editor erik.harris@trussvilletribune.com SALES STAFF Ryan Jennings, Director of Advertising & Sales Shari Moore, Account Executive Meredith White, Account Executive Lauren Taylor, Traffic Coordinator OFFICE MANAGER Jana Mathews

Member of the Alabama Press Association

Hewitt-Trussville senior Kristen Walls selected for SSA scholarship From The Tribune staff reports

MONTGOMERY — A local senior has recently been named one of eight Alabama high school students to receive a scholarship from the School Superintendents of Alabama (SSA).

The SSA student scholarships are presented to high school seniors who intend to pursue a degree in education from one of Alabama’s public colleges or universities.

Included in the list of 2021 recipients is Kirsten Walls, of Hewitt-Trussville. Walls plans

Moody Council From front page

Erica Thomas, Managing Editor news@trussvilletribune.com

Which relates to road improvements on Kelly Creek Rd. serving Love’s Travel Stop.

Before the public hearing was held, the council heard reports from department heads, including the police and fire departments for the month of March.

In the police report, the department received 1,171 calls for service, 32 arrests, 86 warning citations, 194 total citations, 76 completed reports, 20 misdemeanor cases were closed, 30 felony cases (23 closed), 16,021 miles were driven and there were $5,936.94 in expenses for vehicle repairs.

Fire Chief Larry Horton reported three fires (all were woods grass or other), 111 emergency medical calls, 12 wrecks, 26 public services, 9 lift assists, three false alarms, and one mutual aid given. The dispatch en route time was one minute and 25 seconds while the dispatch to arrival time was

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to attend Jacksonville State University.

“One of SSA’s top priorities is to promote high quality public education throughout our state,” said Ryan Hollingsworth, SSA Executive Director. “This has become even more critical as we face a teacher shortage crisis not only in Alabama, but across our na-

six minutes and 58 seconds.

There were 28 annual inspections with 11 re-inspections.

Attention turned to the amendment, which Mayor Joe Lee said was necessary to decrease the number of jobs at the travel stop from 70 to 56.

St. Clair County Economic Development Council (EDC) Executive Director Don Smith spoke on the CDBG, saying that it is a program where grants are applied for through the state and go towards infrastructure.

The grants are based on new jobs being created, he said, adding that companies estimate how many jobs would be created and document that at least 50% of employees have low to moderate-income levels.

“A lot of times those projects create more,” he told the council. “It’s just the documentation that’s done with the HR managers of those private entities like McDonald’s and Subway and Love’s – they have to do this, it’s not something the city actually has any control over.”

tion. It is our hope and belief that these scholarships will aid in the process of rebuilding our workforce by assisting these qualified students and educational leaders in achieving their career goals. These recipients have demonstrated a commitment to quality in our schools, and we are proud to be able to assist them as they pursue their degrees. Together with our partner, Curriculum Associates, we congratulate each scholarship winner.”

Walls and the other seven winners were selected by the superintendents who were chosen for the SSA/Schneider

Electric Superintendent of the Year Award, which includes Trussville City Schools Superintendent Dr. Pattie Neill.

The SSA student scholarships are worth $8,000.

This year’s recipients include Walls, Jared Hudson of Baker High School, Caitlyn Rutledge of A.L. Johnson High School, Noah Gooden of Andalusia High School, Benjamin Everett Jr. of Fort Payne High School, Jordan Perrin of Cordova High School, Lauren Sturdivant of Russellville High School and Jaylyn Massanelli of New Century Technology High School.

Lee said that Moody received a $500,000 CDBG grant to redo the road in front of Love’s. No one from the public spoke for or against the amendment during the hearing.

Smith further addressed the council, saying that EDC members usually attend city council meetings after elections to speak about their history and function in the county.

Among the initiatives by the EDC is a restaurant provision from the recent stimulus package passed nationally.

Smith said that small restaurant owners that experienced a decline from 2019 to 2020 can receive grants through the SBA. He also mentioned that he put Moody on the list of the Alabama Communities of Excellence or ACE, which is a community development program.

The council later approved a request from Parks and Recreation Director Mike Staggs to schedule the fireworks show for July 10 and to pay Pyro Shows of Alabama $10,000.

The sole “no” vote was from Councilmember Linda Crowe, who said that she opposed the action because of the cost.

In other business, the council: • Approved a request from Mitchell to repair a 2020 Ford F150 for $542.72, • Approved a request from Horton to purchase uniforms for $1,200, • Approved an additional request from Horton for uniforms from the vendor, Sew Nice, for $2,200, • Approved a request from Horton to purchase a fire hose for $6,500, and • Accepted the low bid to lay turf at the Kiddie Park for $150,604.

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

April 14 - 20, 2021

The Trussville Tribune

Local / Region

Page 3

Man who used over $1k in Moody man killed in I-20 crash fake money in Trussville had with 2 commercial vehicles multiple warrants in other jurisdictions From The Tribune staff reports

From The Tribune staff reports

TRUSSVILLE —A Birmingham man was arrested in Trussville after attempting to pass fake cash at Kohl’s, according to police.

Dedrick Deon Taylor, 29, of Birmingham, was arrested on March 30, at the store on Chalkville Mountain Road.

He is now facing several charges including three counts of possession of a forged instrument first-degree, theft of property third-degree and theft of property fourth-degree.

Investigators said Taylor bought items with counterfeit

$20 bills. When he tried to return the items, he was arrested.

According to a police report, Taylor gave Kohl’s over $1,000 dollars in counterfeit bills during at least two shopping sprees in March.

Upon his arrest, police discovered Taylor had multiple warrants, including a felony warrant with the Jefferson

County Sheriff’s Office.

It is believed the suspect may have passed fake cash to other locations in Birmingham as well.

Taylor is being held in the Jefferson County Jail on bonds totaling $130,300. Other charges he is facing in other jurisdictions include robbery first-degree (business), possession of a controlled substance – synthetic narcotic, using false identity to avoid arrest/hindering prosecution and other charges connected to counterfeit currency.

Taylor is considered innocent of all charges unless proven guilty.

CRIME STOPPERS: Center Point man wanted by BPD on felony auto theft charge Name: Gender: DOB: Height: Hair: From Crime Stoppers of Metro Alabama

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MOODY — The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency identified a man killed in a three-vehicle crash in Moody on Saturday, April 10, 2021.

Claudio Mancilla, 41, of Moody, was pronounced dead on the scene after the crash that happened around 8:57 p.m.

Troopers said the crash, on Interstate 20, at the 148 mile-marker, happened when the 2006 Chevrolet Colora-

do Mancilla was driving was struck in the rear by a commercial vehicle. The truck was then pushed into the rear of another commercial vehicle.

Troopers with ALEA’s Highway Patrol Division continue to investigate.

Women steal 100 plug-in warmers and 45 candles from Trussville Bath & Body Works From The Tribune staff reports

TRUSSVILLE — A couple of women accused of taking items from Bath & Body Works, likely have great smelling homes.

Trussville Police said two women entered the store on Wednesday, April 7, 2021, and left with 100 plug-in scent warmers and 45 candles. The

Trafficking From front page

From The Tribune staff reports

TRUSSVILLE — A New York man is facing a drug trafficking charge after he was arrested in Trussville on Monday, March 29, 2021.

James Ramone Brown, 44, of Albany, New York, was taken into custody after police said they found 1.6 pounds of cocaine in the vehicle he was driving.

Police were first alerted

items were worth over $1800.

The incident happened at the store in the 1600 block of Gadsden Highway, around 3:45 p.m.

Both women were described as black and the store manager said they were both wearing black wigs. One woman stood around 5 inches, 4 feet and weighed around 130 pounds. The other was about 5 feet, 7 inches tall and weighed

around 275 pounds. They left in a “beat up” gold Toyota with Alabama plates. The vehicle had damage on the driver’s side, according to witnesses.

No arrests have been made in the theft but if caught, the women could be charged with theft of property second-degree.

If you think you may know who the women are, call Trussville Police at (205) 655-2101.

by Flock Safety that a vehicle with a stolen tag was in the city.

When the officer located the 2010 Chevy Impala, at the Shell gas station on North Chalkville Road, he found the driver and began to question him.

The police report stated that Brown told the officer he was a U.S. Air Force recruiter, had been in the military for 20 years and had been shot 11 times while in “Afghan” [sic].

The officer determined that the stolen tag was a U.S. government tag. He then confirmed it was stolen out of New York and a Trussville Police

K9 was brought to the scene to investigate the vehicle. The K9 alerted officers that narcotics were in the vehicle. After a search of the vehicle, police said they found a large amount of cocaine under the backseat.

Also found in the vehicle were three cellphones police believe were associated with trafficking narcotics.

Brown is now charged with drug trafficking and receiving stolen property fourth-degree.

He was placed in the Jefferson County Jail where he posted bonds totaling $60,500. He has since been released.

The Trussville Tribune

Page 4

Viral Videos From front page

By Erica Thomas, managing editor

TRUSSVILLE — The Trussville Student Pastor at Faith Community Fellowship is hoping to use his growing platform in a positive way. BJ Swoager has over 43.6 thousand followers on YouTube and 1.6 million followers on TikTok. One of his videos recently won second place on America’s Funniest Videos (AFV).

Trussville born and raised, Swoager said he doesn’t see himself as famous, although some of his friends might say different. His videos have reached people ranging in

‘you look silly doing all of these dances in front of the camera!”

But his students took the opportunity to challenge him.

And what happened next was internet gold. After studying TikTok and researching the way it worked, Swoager decided to sign up for the social media platform and give it a try.

“I wanted to be a positive influence on the TikTok platform,” said Swoager. “I just started making some fun videos with students and did some videos with trick shots and next thing I know, it just started blowing up.”

Swoager said within three weeks he had 100,000 followers and it hasn’t stopped growing since.

Lindsey and BJ Swoager. Photo: Facebook.

age from teenagers to adults.

People from all walks of life have viewed the videos and Swoager isn’t taking that for granted.

Swoager said it all started when he noticed some of his students doing dances in 2019. When they told him they were making videos for TikTok, Swoager said he was a little less than impressed, at first.

“I said, ‘Y’all look like fools!” he said. “I was just messing around with them, you know. But I was like,

After realizing he could send a video into AFV, he did so. The video of him hooked to a device that simulates labor pains, won second place and $3,000. Not only did the pain Swoager experience pay off, but it also gave him a newfound respect for his wife, Lindsey.

“It took about six days for my pain to go away,” said Swoager. “It was fun to do but it did hurt a lot.”

The Swoager’s have three children, so now Swoager has a little idea of what his wife

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went through to bring their children into the world.

“I just wanted to make the video to maybe show my wife that I could handle laMonth for Welding. Johnson bor,” said Swoager. “My wife From The Tribune scored the highest score based is amazing. I only did it for staff reports on ACT’s employability scale five minutes. I couldn’t take it TRUSSVILLE — A this month. anymore.”

High The employees of the His students and his chil- Hewitt-Trussville month receive a tool from one dren have taken part in some School student was recently of ACT’s industry partners. of the videos. Trick shots ar- honored by the Academy of In addition, ACT highlights en’t the only thing the videos Craft Training (ACT).

David Johnson was named David Johnson. Photo: students like Johnson on-site show. Swoager has been creTrussville City Schools. and through social platforms. ative in finding new ways to March’s Employee of the entertain.

With his internet fame, Swoager hopes to bring people to God and inspire others.

“He does murals all over eat, hang out and spend some He said so far, he has been From front page the country, so he’s been in- money. They may even move surprised at the faith-based strumental all along on how here one day.”

Marc Ward, his wife, Cal- it should work,” Ward added. interests of people all around The murals will not be adlie, and his mother, Marcia, the world.

Weather permitting, the vertisements or store signs, “I try to build a relation- are passionate about their hand-painted image should be but rather a depiction celeship with people,” he said. cause. complete by the end of April. brating Trussville’s culture.

“We hope this produces “We have a huge following so Ward said he is in the “We would work with when we go live, all of those foot traffic,” Marc Ward said. process of reaching out to the building owner and the The hope is to design mu- building owners in down- design would be non-politipeople see it. We try to keep a positive message and point rals that will be inspiring and town Trussville so that his vi- cal,” Ward said. “It would be those people hopefully, to Je- fun. The idea came to the sion can benefit the city even Trussville-based and historWards via social media. sus.” more. ic-based and a professional “During the pandemic, we Swoager said making his trick shot videos is challeng- saw a Facebook post from ing and sometimes it takes the Onetona Business Assoseveral attempts. For the most ciation,” said Ward. “We saw part, if he tries for more than there were a bunch of mu10 minutes and doesn’t hit a rals so we got out and drove shot, he moves on. His reac- around there and saw the mutions to landing a shot, are rals. We thought, ‘Why can’t genuine and contagious. It is we do that here?’ So, that’s hard to NOT laugh when see- what kickstarted the idea.”

The name of Gray Car ing his excitement. Perhaps that is why they have gone Murals came from the names of the Ward children, Grace viral.

“It’s all real,” he said. “I (Gray) and Carter (Car).

The first project for Gray am not faking my reaction.

Some people think I’m fak- Car Murals is at the Trussing but I’m not. I am actually ville Public Library. A mujust so excited that I hit a shot ral designed by Callie Ward, Renderings of the mural for the Trussville Public Library. The because I’m not an artist with who is also the art teacher at mural will be about 12’ high and 8’ wide.: Gray Car Murals Magnolia Elementary, is a this thing.”

Facebook Page.

Swoager is busy with chil- scene showing a woman en“We would like to do the actually does the work.” dren, work and ministering to joying reading under a “book downtown area,” he said. children, but he hopes to con- tree.”

Ward said he would like “My wife is an avid reader “We have one building owner to see volunteers help clean tinue to bring positive content and in that school, they pro- that has approached us so far walls and prep them for the to the internet.

“Quarantine helped me mote reading a lot,” Ward wanting one in the entertain- paint. He would also like to have time to make a lot more explained. “She thought it ment area.” see items donated such as ladWard said having a mural ders, paint brushes, paint and videos but I am hoping to get would be nice to inspire chilstarted making more again dren to read. That’s what we on a building can be benefi- other materials that would want. We want people to go cial for business owners in the help make the project sucreal soon,” he said.

Now, his son is hoping to and check out some library city by attracting people from cessful. follow in his father’s foot- books and have their picture all over.

Money donated goes to “Eventually, I want to pay the designer and installer steps by creating his own made by the mural to promote not only reading but also to have enough murals down- of the signs. You can donate YouTube channel. town where people come, with a check made payable Swoager said he hopes to promote the library itself.”

The Friends of the Library have their picture made, share to Gray Car Murals. Send the do something with his wife for their upcoming anniversa- and the Library Board were a on social media and do what check to 6515 Spring Street, ry with the money they won big part of raising the money I can an art trail,” Ward said. Trussville, AL 35173. Ward for the library mural, accord- “They will stop and stay in is also working on a way for from AFV. You can watch the video ing to Ward.

Trussville. For every dollar people to donate electronical12:54 in PMthe Page 1 Sam Filippo, with Skid- Ad Swoager sent to AFV in thisBirminghamEaseAd-2021.qxp_Florence that3/5/21 we invest commuly. story on www.TrussvilleTri- more Signs out of Clay, will nity, we get six dollars back Go to GrayCarMurals.org bune.com. install the mural at the library. from people coming in and for more information.

Murals

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The Trussville Tribune

April 14 - 20, 2021

Red Wagon From front page

“They sent me all kinds of cool Radio Flyer paraphernalia and said, ‘Thank you for loving us,” said Graydon.

“But they couldn’t let me rent it out.”

Trussville Police have pulled over the wagon. On the scanner, you could hear an officer say, “Uh, I have a really large red wagon…”

The reason? No tag. Gray-

Savalife From front page

The center offers pregnancy tests, parenting classes, ultrasounds, free baby and maternity items, post-abortion healing, for those with unplanned pregnancies.

“Ultrasound can help them focus on the growing baby inside of them instead of all the fears they have,” Cantrell explained. “Our parenting classes give them information about pregnancy, prenatal development, newborn and toddler care as well as many other topics related to parenting and relationships. These are also free to our clients and are offered in-person one on one as well as virtually.”

Savalife also partners with adoption agencies in order to offer resources to those who are interested in adoption.

Kasey Graydon with Keith Reed and John Alan Schaefer.

In the beginning, Savalife put its resources towards teen moms who were scared and unsure of how to navigate being a teen mom. Recently, the center has expanded its reach by helping all of those involved, including grandparents and fathers, and offering

caring and compassionate services, education, and support.

“We really try to focus on the family,” said Angie Cantrell, with Savalife. “An unplanned pregnancy really affects the whole family.”

By helping the young fathers, Cantrell said Savalife can help far beyond the initial news of a baby on the way.

“We also help prepare the dad to become not only a father, but also a leader in the home,” she added.

In order to make all of these things happen, the

don said he forgot to put on the dealer tag before he left, so he was told to remember that from now and to add seatbelts to the vehicle.

The wagon will be in Trussville for a couple more weeks before it is picked up by the museum. Until then, you can expect to see the big red wagon out and about.

Koperdowski has also offered to fly Graydon to California any time he wants to see the wagon.

non-profit depends on donations. Typically, the center has a fundraising dinner each year. Cantrell hopes the concert fundraiser this year will help reach more people.

“We’re hoping that through a concert, we will reach more people who maybe don’t know about what we do,” she said. “Everybody needs to know about what we do because you may not need our services, but you may know someone who does.”

Dove Award-Winning Contemporary Christian Artist, Mark Schultz has a special heart for the work Savalife does because of his personal story of adoption, Cantrell said. He will be performing and Savalife will be taking donations throughout the night.

“All of the services that we offer here, that money will help fund that, as well as advertising and things like that to help people know that we’re here,” Cantrell said.

The concert will be held at Crosspoint Church, on Friday, April 23, at 6 p.m. Tickets are $15 online or $20 at the door.

VIP tickets are also available for $45 each. For tickets and more information, go to www. savalifeconcert.com.

Savalife has been serving families in and around St. Clair County for over 19 years since opening in 2002.

It is located on Highway 11, in Springville, across from Fontaine and next to Allstate.

Page 5

Weekend Meals From front page

According to an announcement from JefCoEd, students will be given breakfast and lunch each Friday for the upcoming weekend. The meals (enough for both Saturday and Sunday) are available to any JefCoEd student and are part of the child nutrition department’s seven-Day Meal Program.

“We have a lot of parents that work and may not be able to come home and prepare their children’s meals,” said Amanda Bridges-Dunn, Child Nutrition Program Supervisor. “So many of our meals are shelf-stable or very easy for the child to prepare themselves.”

The program started as a pilot at just a few schools be-

Clay Council From front page

“It seems like it just comes easy for them, I guess.”

Cork said that cities report under two different methods of accounting: entity-wide and funds-basis.

The city of Clay ended the fiscal year with a net income of $1,988,000 for the entity-wide report. For the funds-basis, the city had a net income of $453,000.

The city spent a total of $1.3 million from the funds on capital assets during the 20192020 fiscal year, Cork said.

Capital assets include city improvements such as the splash pad, which is expected to open on Memorial Day. Additionally, Cork reported that the city donated approximately $265,000 to the local schools and reduced debt by about $320,000.

“The city now owes about $4.3 million, which is very little for a city,” he said. “That’s just not much at all. The city is doing a great job of managing

fore spring break. However, it quickly grew and expanded based on the need and positive feedback.

“Parents were like, ‘Hey, thank you, we appreciate that!’ And so we said, ‘You know what, let’s do weekend meals for everybody,’” said Bridges-Dunn. “Let’s just see if we can go ahead and pack up meals for Saturday and Sunday and just send them home with every child in Jef-

ferson County that will take one.”

The school district says traditional students will receive meals at their school Friday afternoon. Remote students can pick up the meals on Friday during carline pick up or bus stop drop off.

The program will continue through the end of the school year. Plans for summer meal service will be announced at a later date.

that debt … Just another good job by your mayor and city council.”

City Manager Ronnie Dixon said with the Cosby Lake dredging completely finished, the city began allowing fishing at the lake as of last Thursday.

The Fish and Wildlife Service has recommended that the city designate Cosby Lake as a catch-and-release lake, with the exception of catfish and bass that measure over 16 inches in length.

“In the past, we’ve had people taking our white amur out – the carp, the grass-eating fish,” Dixon said. “The bigger problem is that they are taking 5-gallon buckets of brim that are so small you can hold them in your hand, so there’s no food for the bigger fish to eat.

We have an over-population of big fish, so we want people to take those out. We want them to have fun catching them and put the yearling catfish and the brim (and) yearling bass, put those back in but take the big ones out.”

Dixon also said that the

Clay Fishing Rodeo will return this year, taking place the first Saturday in June. The event will be free and last all day.

“It won’t be like the past; it’s put on by Fish and Wildlife,” he said. “You don’t bring your own rods and reels – they furnish them to you out of the trailer. The city is going to sponsor the snacks and bait.

“They’re really excited about having the entire lake and every species to catch because they want to use it an inventory system for Fish and Wildlife, too.”

Mayor Charles Webster said that the Pickleball Alabama Open was a success, with 400 participants from four different countries and raising over $9,000 for charity.

“Everybody was very nice,” Webster said. “They had nothing but positive to say about the courts.”

The next meeting of the Clay City Council will be Tuesday, April 27, 2021, at Clay City Hall, beginning at 6 p.m.

Page 6

The Trussville Tribune

April 14 - 20, 2021

R e g i o n a l /S tat e N e w s

Alabama Secretary of State, admitting poor personal choices, won’t run in ’22 MONTGOMERY, ala.

(AP) — Alabama Secretary of State John Merrill said Wednesday that he will not run for any elected office next year because of poor choices he made that impacted his family.

“I will not be a candidate because of choices I have made and the decisions I have made that were not in the best interest of me or my family,” Merrill, 57, told The Associated Press in a telephone interview. Merrill told al.com that he had an inappropriate relationship with a woman outside his

Alabama Secretary of State John Merrill.

marriage.

Merrill announced his decision in a statement issued from his office. The

announcement ended speculation that Merrill, often viewed as having higher political ambitions, might run for the U.S. Senate or another position next year.

The Republican politician said after “much prayer, reflection, and conversations with my wife, Cindy, I have decided that I will not be a candidate for any office in 2022.”

“Life presents us with a series of chapters, some more challenging than others, in our book of life, and when one finishes, another one begins. While I remain

fully committed to continuing my service as your secretary of state through the end of my term, I do not know what the next chapter will present for me and my family,” Merrill said in a statement.

Merrill had served in the Alabama House of Representatives before being elected secretary of state in 2014.

In 2019, Merrill announced a run for U.S. Senate, but dropped out of the race after Jeff Sessions entered the field to try to reclaim his seat.

Alabama lawmakers should pass election reforms despite potential economic threats

By Paul DeMarco

The state of Georgia is getting push back against legislative efforts to strengthen the integrity of their elections.

Recently some large corporations have increasingly buckled under pressure from leftist organizations who threaten boycotts to achieve their political agenda.

Last week, Atlanta-based Delta and Coca-Cola criticized state leaders for the new laws that provide for a more transparent and accountable election process. Following

that, Major League Baseball pulled the All-Star Game from the state as well.

Count on Alabama being a target for these companies since the Alabama Legislature, as well as other states, are passing new rules to put up hurdles for voter fraud in the state.

Alabama lawmakers should push forward, regardless of the economic threat by these or other companies, and do their part to give election officials and prosecutors more tools to ensure the integrity of elections and fight those that want to cheat at the

Paul Demarco

ballot box.

And Alabama voters should tell these companies

to focus on their business operations and not attempt to interfere with the state’s interest in ensuring honest elections.

If these corporations choose to take sides in the political arena, they should expect that they will anger one-half of the electorate.

For companies, it is bad for business and it is bad public policy. We will see if Alabama holds true and enshrines into law additional protections for fair elections.

Paul DeMarco is a former member of the Alabama House of Representatives

Lawmakers approve option of lifetime concealed carry permit

By Kim Chandler Associated Press

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) — Alabama lawmakers approved a bill Thursday that would let people purchase lifetime permits to carry a concealed firearm and also create a registry of people prohibited from carrying guns.

The House of Representatives voted 69-18 to grant final approval to the bill sponsored

by Sen. Randy Price, R-Opelika. The measure now goes to Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey who will decide whether to sign it into law The proposal could do away with the need for gun carriers to regularly renew their permits, and it will bring some organization to the permit system, said Rep. Proncey Robertson, R-Mount Hope, who carried the bill in the House.

“It does create a lifetime carry option for those who would like to purchase one.

And the third main thing it will do is create a prohibited firearms person registry,” Robertson said.

The legislation comes after previous efforts to abolish the permit requirement failed

under opposition from law enforcement officials.

Under the bill, people would be able to purchase permits that last for a year, five years or a lifetime. The lifetime permits would cost $300 or $150 if the applicant is over age 60. The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency would be required to create a database of people ineligible to possess a firearm by state and federal law. Courts would be required to forward any conviction or court order that would make a person ineligible to carry a firearm.

“Any Alabamian who can legally purchase a handgun should be able to obtain a lifetime concealed carry permit, but bad actors and individuals deemed prohibited from obtaining this permit should be registered and flagged as such,” Price said in an earlier statement about the bill.

Some Democrats asked if the state could do more to reduce gun violence.

“When you go see a mother who has lost a son or a daughter to gun violence, senseless gun violence, it’s happening too much,” said Rep. Ralph Howard, D-Greensboro.

Howard voted for the bill.

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The Trussville Tribune

April 14 - 20, 2021

Kimberly Officer From front page

Marshall addressed the media and honored O’Rear, who lost his life in the line of duty on Feb. 5, 2020. The father of three was fatally shot that night during a pursuit on Interstate 65 South.

presented a commemoration in recognition of O’Rear’s service and sacrifice to be displayed prominently at the Kimberly Police Department.

Marshall was joined at the ceremony, which was held at Kimberly City Hall, by Kimberly Police Chief Ricky Pridmore and O’Rear’s parents, Dan and Kelly.

Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall honors fallen Kimberly police officer Nick O'Rear during a ceremony at Kimberly City Hall on April 6, 2021. Photo by Erik Harris

Marshall says O’Rear was one of eight law enforcement officers lost in 2020 either to violent crimes (five) or COVID-19 (three).

“We look forward to that day in which we do not have to have memorials or ceremonies where we honor those who have given the ultimate sacrifice, but the reality is it happens far too often not only in this country, but in this state,” said Marshall.

The attorney general then

“He had a servant’s heart and I know that he is in heaven fulfilling that service as well,” said Kelly.

“There’s not a day that goes by that we don’t think about him or see something that reminds us of him and we hope that continues,” said Dan. “It was a pleasure and an honor to have been his father.”

Preston Johnson, 37, has been charged with capital murder in the shooting death of O’Rear.

Page 7

Birmingham woman charged with murder in head-on collision captured by Marshals in Atlanta From The Tribune staff reports

BIRMINGHAM — U.S. Marshals arrested a Birmingham woman who has been on the run for two weeks after her bond was revoked for a murder charge.

Carol Robinson, with al.com, reports Carmesia Flannigan, 22, was taken into custody around 6:15 a.m. in the Atlanta area.

Flannigan is charged with murder in the death of 52-yearold Brandy Lee Moore Ballard. Ballard died after the crash on Sunday, March 21, 2021, on Arkadelphia Road in Birmingham. Prosecutors said the suspect was racing when her vehicle crossed the center line and struck Ballard’s vehicle, head-on.

Flannigan was also charged with unlawful possession of a controlled substance and leaving the scene of an accident with injury. She was placed in the Jefferson County Jail on bonds totaling

Carmesia Flannigan

$175,000 and was released the next day after posting bond.

Attorneys filed a motion to revoke Flannigan’s bond on two previous charges, for burglary and domestic violence. The documents state that Flannigan left the scene

of the crash and told police her vehicle had been stolen.

On the burglary charge, Judge Katrina Ross ruled Flannigan’s bond be revoked.

Flannigan took to Facebook to claim her innocence.

In the video, which contains

explicit language, Flannigan denied reports that she was racing and said the victim of the car crash “stole her own life, she came up in my sh**.”

The video has since been removed from Facebook but has been posted on YouTube.

A GoFundMe account has been set up for the family of Ballard.

“Brandy Ballard, unfortunately, was taken from us far too early due to an unfortunate car accident involving illegal street racing that she fell victim to on her way back home from a double shift at her job,” Robin Hancock stated on the page.

Hancock said Ballard was a hard-working, God-fearing woman.

“Brandy Ballard was the glue that held our family together and was a very kind soul who would always make every effort to help those in need whether it be clothes, food, a place to lay their head, or just a friend to talk to,” she stated.

Trussville City Schools Foundation offering personalized bricks for stadium From The Tribune staff reports

TRUSSVILLE — The Trussville City Schools Foundation is once again selling personalized bricks for the Hewitt-Trussville stadium.

The bricks will be installed in the walkways near the concession stands.

Anyone can purchase a brick with a special message for $50.

“Individuals, families, and businesses can show their school pride by purchasing an

engraved brick,” TCS said in a press release. “This is also a great way to honor graduating seniors, new kindergarten students, and special teachers or staff members.”

The bricks are 4″ x 8″ and will hold one to three lines Example of a personalized brick of engraving with 18 to 20

characters per line, including spaces.

Past donors have bricks already in place at the entrance of the stadium just inside the front gates.

For more information, contact Leslie Armstrong at (205) 228-3000.

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The Trussville Tribune

Page 8

Trussville Council From front page

Taylor thanked Rowe for the presentation and voiced his support for ACTA. “ACTA is a jewel in our city,” said Taylor. If you’re not going, you need to be going.”

Rowe also showed a slide explaining where ACTA is now and where it could be. Some of the concerns include more seating, expanded restrooms, separate dressing rooms, safer access to lighting and the sound booth, a concessions area as well as a ticketing area and ADA compliance.

SCOOTER DRIVE Cynthia Anchrum, who lives on Scooter Drive also spoke during public comments.

Anchrum said she is concerned about standing water in her backyard. She said the yard has been retaining water more and more over the past two years.

The 2020-21 Boys Basketball Team (12 and under) was honored during the Trussville City Council’s regular meeting on Tuesday, March 13, 2021.

asked the mayor if it was possible to pull building permits from the developer, Signature Homes, while the city awaits a fix to the problem, which is being addressed by the Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM).

“We like to think our neighborhood is a jewel of the city and that’s why we are so persistent in trying to help get rid of the mud that is in the Windsong Lake,” said Ware.

Ware brought new photos of the lake that were taken

Drone video shows runoff into lakes in Windsong.

Photo: Ron Burkett.

Mayor Buddy Choat said the city could look into the problem and see if they can fix it, as long as they do not have to access private property.

WINDSONG SUBDIVISION CONCERNS Donna Ware, who lives in the Windsong Subdivision made a second appearance in front of the council concerning issues with runoff from development in the neighboring Stockton Subdivision. Ware was speaking on behalf of several residents who attended the meeting.

At the last council meeting, resident David Livingston

last Saturday after heavy rain on Friday. Ware pointed out a city ordinance concerning buildings and building regulations (Ch. 14, Article V, Sec. 14-61). The ordinance outlines the city’s obligation to protect property.

“Land disturbing activities in proximity to a lake, natural watercourse or adjacent property shall have a sufficient buffer zone to confine the siltation to the site being disturbed,” Ware read part of the ordinance.

“Well, that’s really not happening here,” she said.

Ware asked the city to look at enforcing the ordinance.

During the last meeting, the mayor told the group he had been advised by ADEM to wait for the agency to complete its investigation and decision into the matter.

Donna Ware’s husband, Brad, who is a former attorney, also spoke up during the meeting.

“You’ve got the authority now and you had it in 2016,” said Brad Ware.

Brad Ware said he wants the city to do something to prevent the sediment from going into the lakes.

“Am I missing something?” he asked.

Mayor Buddy Choat said he did not think Mr. Ware was missing anything. In fact, he said he has met with those doing work on the site about the issue. He has also been in contact with ADEM. “There are inspections going on regularly out there,” Choat said.

Choat said ADEM informed the city it could take 60-70 days for the issue to be handled.

“We’re aware of it,” Choat added. “Again, it was a heck of a rain Friday night. We know that. I think we’re coming into a season now where if we put a stop work order on it now, going into the dry season, how will we know if it’s really working?”

The mayor promised residents that the city is watching and monitoring the situation.

He said city officials have asked the developers to be specific on what changes are being made to protect the lakes and wildlife.

The mayor said he would also look into any plans by the developer to add a retention pond to the new development.

He added he would ask ADEM what would happen if a stop order was issued at this time.

ANNEXATIONS The council also annexed the following properties into the city of Trussville, after the requests came recommended by the city’s Planning and Zoning Committee: • 8424 Will Keith Road • 6983 Pannell Road • 6973 Pannell Road OTHER BUSINESS In other business, a resolution to approve a bid to install the new tennis court surface was passed. Lower Brothers Tennis Courts was the sole bidder and estimated the resurfacing of the courts at the City Racquet Club would cost no more than $83,200. Money for the work will come from the Parks & Recreation Capital Outlay Section of the Fiscal Year 2021 City Budget.

The council held a first reading for an ordinance to rezone 2975 Floyd Bradford Road parcel and connected lots as R-G (Garden).

Tortorigi Development LLC requested the rezoning on behalf of the Sarinopolous family. The properties are currently zoned R-2 and R-3.

The city’s Planning and

April 14 - 20, 2021

Donna Ware addresses city council about concerns in the Windsong Subdivision.

Electronics will include department-specific equipment.

The following items were approved as part of the consent agenda: Accounts payable Auditing Accounts 1. Consulting Services Agreement with T. Phillip Dunlap & Douglas J. Watson Ph. D. to assist the City in creating an economic development position from May 1 through Oct 31, 2021. $2400 a month 2. Comprehensive Maintenance Contract with Media Merge, Inc., to maintain audio, visual and lighting systems at the Trussville Entertainment District.

3. Medical Services Agreement with Dr. William C. Ferguson (Birmingham Regional EMS System, or BREMSS) and City Fire Department, with term running until March 1, 2023. $2500 a quarter.

Resident Brad Ware asks the city to address development impacting lakes in the Windsong Subdivision.

Zoning Committee recommended the council not approve the rezoning. The council will vote on the matter in a future council meeting.

A bid to upfit 10 new police vehicles was approved. The bid of $103,895 by Brasher

4. K9 Supervisor Training for TPD Sgt. Nate Holloway, May 25-27 in St. Louis. $295 registration fee plus lodging • Re-appoint Nina Orr to the Trussville Beautification Board, term ending Jan 14,

2026 • Appoint Sue Peterson and Karen Black to the Trussville Beautification Board, terms ending Jan 14, 2026 • Appoint John Griscom to the Trussville Veterans Committee, term ending May 1, 2022 • Appoint Rob Langford to the Trussville Veterans Committee, term ending May 1, 2023 • Appoint Jim Wolfe to the Trussville Veterans Committee, term ending May 1, 2024 • Appoint Linda Burns and Chad Carroll to the Trussville Veterans Committee, term ending May 1, 2025 • Hire Ronnie Allen as Parks & Rec Gymnastics Instructor (Grade 12 – Step 4), effective Apr 24, 2021 • Assign laborer Daniel Green to full-time Parks & Rec seasonal laborer for baseball season (Grade 7 – Step 1), effective Apr 24, 2021 • Upgrade TFD Firefighter Spencer Sinewe to Firefighter Paramedic (Grade 19F- — Step 2), effective Apr 10, 2021 Council/Mayor Reports & Comments 1. Anderson – Library, ACTA, Historical, Beautification 2. Bright – Board of Education, IDB, Public Works 3. Cook – Parks & Recreation, Senior Citizens, Inspections & Tree Commission 4. Short – Planning & Zoning, Design Review, Telecommunications 5. Taylor – Utilities, Finance, Public Safety, Chamber of Commerce 6. Mayor – Administration

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The Trussville Tribune

April 14 - 20, 2021

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Calendar Nick Sellers with World Games to Speak at Leeds Area Chamber of Commerce Luncheon April 15 @ 11:45 am 1:00 pm $12

The Leeds Area Chamber of Commerce will host its next Chamber Luncheon at 11:45 a.m. on Thursday, April 15, 2021 at Leeds First Baptist Church Fellowship Hall. Guest speaker will be Nick Sellers with The World Games 2022 Organizing Committee. Lunch is $12 with reservation or $15 for non-members or without reservation. Door prizes are encouraged to advertise your business. Please RSVP now at (205) 6995001 or Sandra@LeedsAreaChamber.com. Don’t miss this exciting event!

About the Speaker: Nick Sellers brings a wide breadth of leadership experience to The World Games 2022 Organizing Committee. Sellers joins The World Games 2022 on loan from Alabama Power, where he most recently served as vice president of the Mobile Division.

He has deep sports experience from his time as Director of Operations for the Alabama Sports Foundation, where he was responsible for sponsorships, ticketing and operations plans for large-scale events such as the SEC Baseball Tournament, Arby’s Hardwood Classic Invitational and Regions Charity Classic.

In recent years, he has held a variety of leadership positions within Alabama Power and Southern Company, including Senior Vice President of business origination, Senior Vice President of project management & construction, and Vice President of external and regulatory affairs.

Sellers also serves on several community boards.

Currently, he is the chairman of the Alabama Sports Council, where he works to oversee all ASC events including the Magic City Classic and the Davis Cup Tennis Invitational. Sellers

also serves on the Bryant Jordan Scholarship Foundation Board of Directors and is a Board Emeritus member of the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame.

After earning his undergraduate from the University of the Pacific in Stockton, California, Sellers went on to earn his juris doctorate from the Birmingham School of Law. Sellers and his wife, Julie, are the parents of three children: Annie, Maria and Nicholas.

Venue First Baptist Church Leeds

– tables will be spread out due to COVID-19.

(This event is non-refundable since we do have to buy & set up all supplies ahead of time.)

Venue Ferus Artisan Ales Storytime for Growin’ Beans with Ms. Allison: Rain April 16 @ 10:00 am 10:30 am

We’re hosting a special virtual meeting for Tea Day! Register below to pick up a package of activities, snacks, & tea varieties before the event. Then join us on Wednesday, April 21st at 3 PM to celebrate virtually. Please only register for a package if you plan to attend the event.

Registration: https://forms. gle/jZbCahDiBDrG2TDL8 You will be notified when your supplies are ready for pickup. Pickup time avail-

ability may vary. Once you have been notified that your craft is ready, you may then visit the library for pickup.

Curbside Hours for Pickup: Monday – Friday 10 AM to 5 PM Saturday 10 AM to 12 PM Venue Pinson Public Library Steven Lane at Ferus Artisan Ales April 24 @ 3:00 pm - 7:00 pm Free

Very excited to announce that Seven Lane will be performing on the Trussville Stage! This event is FREE and ALL AGES.

Listen here: www.stevenlane.com Venue Ferus Artisan Ales

Spring Planters April 19 @ 10:00 am April 24 @ 12:00 pm

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Venue Pinson Public Library

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

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The Trussville Tribune

Page 10

O b i t u a ry

Earl Dwight Shoults, november

13, 1953 ~ april 1, 2021 (age 67)

Ike Shoults, age 67, of Trussville passed away at his home on April 1, 2021. He graduated from Hewitt-Trussville High School in 1972. His hobbies included working on classic cars, particularly corvettes and going to car shows. He had an appetite for great food. He is survived by his daughter, Kerrie Stephens (Keith); his sibling, Roxanne Shoults Case, Robin Shoults Dawson (Al), and Mark Shoults (Dawn); grandchildren, Connor, Chandler, Summer, Allie Stephens. The family would like to give a special thank you to Connie Peters for providing such loving care of Mr. Shoults. A private gathering and service will be held on a later date to honor Mr. Shoults.

Larry Matthew Thomason 23, 1969 ~ april 3, 2021 (age 51) may

L. Matt Thomason passed away Saturday, April 3, 2021. He was preceded in death by his father Larry Thomason and stepdad Dee Helms. He is survived by his mother Nancy Helms (Russell Black) , sister Laura Nail (Midnight), brother Larry Thomason Jr (Cristal).

Also nieces Kala Wools (Chris) and Hannah Luther, great nieces Aurora Jade Wools and Nova Alice Wools and other nieces and nephews as well as many beloved friends.

Mattie "Ruth" (Daniel) Kendall 1, 1926 ~ april 7, 2021 (age 94) june

Mattie Ruth Kendall, age 95, of Birmingham passed away on April 7, 2021. She was a life-long resident of Birmingham, AL. She was a member of Center Point Senior Citizen Center. Ruth enjoyed traveling and spending time with her friends and family, especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Ruth never met a stranger and had a welcoming and caring disposition. She had a sincere heart and dedicated her life to serving others. She is survived by her loving daughter, Susan Kelley (Vic); her grandchildren, Kristin Nunnelley-Bader (Sam), Roger Cole Nunnelley (Alexis-Marie Shelby) James Kelley; great grandchildren, Mary Olivia Wiley, Piper Bethany Bader, Bridget “Birdie” Bader and Tallulah June Bader.

Debbrah “Debbie” Kay Herren 25, 1959 ~ april 11, 2021 (age 62) january

Debbrah Kay “Debbie” Herren, age 62, of Trussville, AL passed away on April 11, 2021 at her home surrounded by her loving family. Debbie was born on January 25, 1959 to Mr. and Mrs. Robert F. Herren. She was a graduate of Hewitt-Trussville High School. Debbie had a passion for others and devoted her life to caring for others. She had many gifts that she shared with the world, but her talent for drawing made her a true artist. She was a loving and proud mother and kind friend and sister to many. Debbie was preceded in death by parents, a sister, Pauline “Bit” Adams. She is survived by her loving son, Aric “DJ” Bailey (Ashley); her brother, Robert F. Herren, Jr., sisters, Linda Rigdon and Gloria Herren; a host of nieces and nephews and extended family. Family and friends will gather at Jefferson Memorial on Friday, April 16th for sharing of memories and visitation from 10:30 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. The family requests that in lieu of flowers please send donations to the American Cancer Society.

Ask Eddie

April 14 - 20, 2021

George “Shorty” White february

(age 90)

4, 1931 ~ april 5, 2021

George O. “Shorty” White, 90, died on April 5th, 2021, after a short period in a Homewood Nursing home. He was born in Birmingham, Alabama February 4, 1931 to Ruth Limbaugh White and George O. White Sr. He parents divorced after a few years and his mother remarried Lewis Payton Sidle in 1940. He soon became the older step-brother of James “Jimmy” Corbin Sidle. George remembers going to games with his step-father Lewis at Legion Field and watching the big schools in the city, Woodlawn, Ensley, Phillips, Ramsay and West End, the big 5 as they were called. This is where he fell in love with the game of football.

In 1942 when George was eleven and his brother Jimmy was two, Lewis Sidle went off to war being stationed first in San Francisco, then Hawaii and Guam where he died in 1945. Lewis was a Navy Seabee in World War II and his job was to drop dynamite in the bay to create depth for the carriers to be able to dock in the bay. Someone in their group became careless and an explosion killed him. Jimmy was not old enough to remember his father. One of the last things that his step-father Lewis told George before going to war was, “You’re the man of the house now, take care of your mother and brother”. Shorty, the name his friends used, ended up being the father figure for Jimmy for many years.

George attended Phillips High School from 1947-1950. His High School football Coach, Jimmy Tarrant, said he had “more guts than Jesse James.” George was an outstanding Football player and lead his team to a victory in the 1950 Clinic game against Woodlawn 20-0 where 38,000 fans attended. The Clinic game was the largest High School attendance until the Banks High vs Woodlawn game in 1974 broke the record with 42,000.

After High School, Shorty received a Scholarship from Auburn University. He had limited time on the field and was drafted in the army his Junior year. While in the Army he became a skilled boxer. He remembers his mother, Ruth, coming to watch him box at the base and she brought him a new watch.

Little did he know, it would be the last time he saw her alive. She died in an automobile accident two days later on his birthday. This left his brother Jimmy an orphan. While being in the army, George would say later that the training and discipline he experienced there, is what he would use later in coaching football. As he was being discharged in 1955, he learned his birth father had died in a fire. He soon enrolled at Jacksonville State after he discovered he had two years left of eligibility. While in college he met his future wife June Melton who was enrolled at Birmingham Southern. George learned that June said she was not going to marry anyone without a college degree. He got the message and graduated from Jacksonville State. George and June were married August 25, 1956. In their early years of marriage, they would bring George’s brother Jimmy as a part of their family.

George “Shorty” White’s first coaching job was at Sylacauga High School under Tom Calvin. Shorty spent two years at Sylacauga before moving to a new High School in the Birmingham area, Banks. Little did he know that this decision would lead him to become one of the most successful and lasting legacies in Alabama High School sports history. After two years as an assistant, Coach Shorty White became the head football coach for Banks High School.

Three State football Championship, 88 players signing D1 Football Scholarships, and a winning record from 1961-1974 of 100-37-5, gave Coach George Shorty White the success and notoriety that Alabama’s Bear Bryant needed to add him to his staff in 1975. George coached for six seasons at Alabama as the running backs coach. The University won two national championships and even more SEC championships during his time on staff.

George was a member of Pelham Baptist Church and testified that he became a believer in Christ in the early 1970’s through a crusade given by Wales Goebel for the Banks Football Team. After leaving Alabama, George spent a few years in the private sector before coaching at two other High Schools.

George Shorty White was elected to the Alabama High School Sports Hall of fame in 2008. Upon retirement, Coach George Shorty White and June moved to Helena.

George “Shorty” White is remembered as a strong disciplinarian and a fun-loving person. He had a Christian attitude toward helping others. Countless players have given account of things he did for them that turned their lives around, helped them reach their full potential in their career, and directed their lives at critical moments.

Coach George Shorty White was preceded in death by his brother James Corbin Sidle, mother Ruth, father George Sr., and Step father Lewis. George is survived by his wife June of 65 years, oldest son Gary, daughter in law Cecelia, daughter Dianne, son in law Mike Barker, son Darryl, daughter in law Janice. Also survived by eight grandchildren, Riley, Ramsey, Chaney, Reagan, Jaymie, Charlie, Brittney, and Brooke. And 8 great grandchildren.

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Having a funeral service in the age of social distancing Social distancing has changed many things about our world. One thing it hasn’t changed, though, is that loved ones will pass away and we will feel grief from these losses. When a loved one passes away, funeral services are an important part of the grieving process. They allow us to mourn our loss publicly.

It can seem like having a funeral service during these times is too difficult, which can lead families to put off having a funeral service entirely. With so many changes and uncertainties, the ritual of a funeral service can be a source of great comfort.

In fact, it may be more important than ever to have a funeral service as it allows us to feel a sense of closure and control in what is otherwise a time when we likely feel very out of control. Even if you decide on cremation, you can still have a funeral service for your loved one.

There will be some differences to funeral services during this time. Due to social distancing, family and friends may not be able to travel to the location of the service. In addition, group gatherings are limited in size.

However, this does not mean that it is impossible to hold a funeral service. On the contrary, the age of social media has made it possible to include just about anyone who wants to be part of the service. These days, it is possible to securely and safely live stream the funeral service so that friends and family can be a part of the service no matter where they live. Funeral homes are also making accommodations, such as allowing a rotation of mourners to come through during visitation hours, provided they follow social distancing protocols.

While this may not be the ideal situation, it is important to remember that this time of mourning is important and delaying it entirely can magnify your grief and delay the healing process. It is also important to remember that these social distancing protocols are not permanent. Once this time is over, you can hold a second, larger and more fitting farewell on a later date – perhaps on a birthday, anniversary or holiday.

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sports

Keeping Co Community 1st Always

Springville head basketball coach Jeff Smith leaves for Pell City

By Erik Harris, sports editor

SPRINGVILLE – Pell City High School has announced its next head boys basketball coach.

The Panthers, according to the school’s Facebook page, have swiped veteran Springville head man Jeff Smith.

See COACHING CHANGE, Page 12

Alabama high schools to offer girls flag football this fall From The Tribune staff reports

MONTGOMERY — In partnership with the Atlanta Falcons and NFL FLAG, the Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA) announced Tuesday at its 13th Annual Principals’ and Athletic Directors’ Conference that girls flag football will be a sanctioned sport in 2021.

See FLAG FOOTBALL, Page 12

Hewitt-Trussville baseball vs.

Vestavia Hills High School at HewittTrussville. Thursday, April 15

Pinson Valley soccer vs. Pell City High School at Pell City Thursday, April 15

The Trussville Tribune April 14 - 20, 2021

Moody softball vs.Pell City High School at Moody Monday, April 19

No. 7 Springville blanks No. 6 Pell City to climb to 4-0 in area play

By Erik Harris, sports editor

SPRINGVILLE — It all starts with defense for the Springville softball team. It’s the mindset head coach Brandon Easterwood has created, and its presence was obvious last Thursday night in a crucial Class 6A, Area 13 home game.

Reagan Cornelius and Bella Bullington teamed up in the circle to strand 10 runners on base, Graci Black and Tatum Bartlett slapped in two runs apiece and the seventh-ranked Tigers beat No. 6 Pell City 7-0 to improve to 4-0 in league play.

“We’ve always preached defense and pitching,” said Easterwood following the game. “We work hard on those two things in practice and it showed up today.”

Cornelius, a senior lefty, got the start and went 5 ⅓ scoreless innings to earn the win. She struck out five batters and surrendered five hits, but perhaps her best work was done with runners in scoring position.

“We’ve had a tendency to work ourselves into those situations and work ourselves out,” said Easterwood of the multiple Pell City threats.

“You’re going to be put in those situations throughout a

Springville outfielder Bekah Hargrove takes a pitch during an area win over Pell City on April 8, 2021. Photo by Erik Harris

game and you’ve got to deliver when the moment is tight and I think they did. I think the defense got behind her and made some plays.”

After Springville lassoed a 4-0 advantage in the first, the Panthers loaded the bases with one out recorded in the top of the second. Cornelius then pitched into a 4-6 double play to kill the threat and hold the 4-run lead. Pell City threatened again in the fourth,

but Springville stood tall as Bartlett, the catcher, gunned down a baserunner at second and Cornelius fanned the third out to reach the home-half still holding a 4-0 edge.

Bartlett also started the first inning push with a soft line into center to score the first run of the game. Cornelius followed with a RBI single back up the middle for a 2-0 advantage. The home team got a little help after that,

as Layla Bradshaw flew into a fielding error in center that sent two more runs across.

Springville went to the second with a 4-0 cushion.

“When you put together a big first inning, that definitely sets the tone,” said Easterwood.

His girls would add a fifth run in the fourth (Bartlett RBI) and two more insurance runs in the sixth (two-run single from Black) to secure the

home win.

Bullington pitched the final 1 ⅔ innings with no hits allowed and two strikeouts.

The Tigers (22-8, 4-0) added two tournament wins over North Jackson (8-2) and Skyline (14-5) last Friday. Bullington led the charge on Friday with three hits and five RBIs in two games. She also pitched a complete game against North Jackson with three strikeouts and two runs allowed.

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The Trussville Tribune

Page 12

April 14 - 20, 2021

ASWA rankings: Hewitt Coach Hunter: ‘Amiya Payne is one of a kind,’ despite takes No. 1 spot in baseball, Miss Basketball results softball poll

By Erik Harris, sports editor

TRUSSVILLE — There appear to be two state championship contenders in Trussville this spring.

Both the baseball and softball programs at Hewitt-Trussville High School have gar-

week with a sweep of Gadsden City, 6-1 and 5-1. Senior Skylar Jones pitched a complete game in the series clincher on Thursday, striking out 11 batters on his way to the win.

The Huskies (24-2, 2-0) were led offensively by Kurt Kizer, who doubled and singled with an RBI and two runs scored.

Hewitt-Trussville will be back in area play this week against Vestavia Hills.

Here are this week’s ASWA Class 7A baseball rankings: 1. Hewitt-Trussville 2. Auburn 3. Vestavia Hills 4. Central-Phenix City 5. Bob Jones

6. James Clemens 7. Florence 8. Sparkman 9. Dothan 10. Smiths Station On the softball diamond, head coach Taylor Burt and her Huskies have held the top spot in Class 7A for each of the first four installments of the ASWA poll. Burt’s girls saw a 16-game win streak snapped last Wednesday in an 8-6 loss to area foe Spain Park. Prior to that, Hewitt’s last loss came on March 5 in a 6-3 final against Helena.

Twenty-two wins and one tie separate the two defeats.

The Huskies now sit at 312-1 on the year, including a 2-1 mark in Area 6 action.

Here are this week’s ASWA Class 7A softball rankings: 1. Hewitt-Trussville 2. Fairhope 3. Bob Jones 4. Spain Park 5. Vestavia Hills 6. Thompson 7. Austin 8. Sparkman 9. Auburn 10. Central-Phenix City Other local schools listed this week include the No. 3-ranked Leeds baseball team and the No. 7-ranked Springville softball team.

onship and a regional finals appearance during the 201920 season. He ended his Springville run this past season with a Class 6A, Area 13 runner-up finish behind Oxford. His boys would fall to the Yellow Jackets by a count of 69-41 in the area tournament finals in February.

The Tigers would qualify for the state playoffs and made a sub-regional exit

thanks to a 69-39 loss at thirdranked Huffman. Springville finished Smith’s final season with a record of 25-7 after starting the year on a 13-game winning streak.

Smith will bring more than 500 wins of experience with him to Pell City. He represents the second SHS head coaching change this year, joining former head football coach Michael Graben.

Hewitt-Trussville shortstop Hudson Boren sets his feet for the throw during pregame warmups. Photo by Erik Harris

nered the No. 1 spot in the latest Alabama Sports Writers Association (ASWA) rankings, which were released last Wednesday night. Head coach Jeff Mauldin’s boys leapfrogged Auburn for No. 1 after beating the Tigers 4-3 last weekend.

The Huskies also claimed their first Area 6 series last

Coaching Change From page 11

Springville Principal Greg Moore confirmed the move this weekend, saying that no replacement has been found and no target date has been set to fill the opening.

Smith led the Tigers to a Class 5A, Area 10 champi-

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By Erik Harris, sports editor

TRUSSVILLE — Hewitt-Trussville head girls basketball coach Tonya Hunter got a little emotional talking about Amiya Payne on Saturday.

Shortly after the Alabama Sports Writers Association (ASWA) announced its 2021 Miss Basketball winner: Geneva County’s Karoline Striplin, Hunter took some time to praise her senior leader. Payne was a finalist for the award along with Striplin, Sara Puckett of Muscle Shoals and Randrea Wright of Carver-Birmingham.

Sure, she wanted her do-itall captain to hoist the state’s top girls basketball honor. She wanted Payne to cap an already stellar prep career with a Miss Basketball title, but Saturday’s result makes no difference to her impact on the Huskies’ program.

“I’ve been blessed to coach some special kids — too many to name — but Amiya Payne is one of a kind with her work ethic and being able to score the basketball,” said Hunter.

“She can put the ball in the basket and she can do that because of her work ethic. People don’t understand the time that she puts in and the hours that she puts in that allows her to perform the way she does.”

“I don’t know of anyone

Flag Football From page 11

The new sport will be available for member schools beginning in the fall.

The AHSAA Central Board of Control approved sanctioning the sport at its January 2021 meeting, giving the AHSAA the nod to pursue the partnership. The season will culminate in December with a championship game at the 2021 Super 7 State High School Football Championships in Birmingham.

“After discussions with the Atlanta Falcons for several months, we are excited to be adding this girls’ sport for our membership. We think it will grow rapidly,” said Associate Executive Director Alvin Briggs, who oversees the sport of football for the AHSAA. “The AHSAA appreciates the support, commitment and funding being provided by the Atlanta Falcons, the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation and NFL FLAG.” In addition to the Atlanta Falcons and the Blank Family Foundation monetary support, NIKE will provide girls flag apparel to assist the AHSAA with launching girls’ flag football throughout the state.

The Atlanta Falcons have played a key role in the

Hewitt-Trussville senior Amiya Payne handles the ball during the 2021 state championship game against Hoover.

Photo by Ron Burkett

that’s done more for their team,” she continued.

Payne led Hewitt to two Class 7A state runner-up finishes while playing for Hunter. She is a four-time ASWA all-state player and a two-time Super 5 recipient, which goes to the top five players in the state, regardless of position or classification. Payne also earned the distinction of Class 7A Player of the Year following a senior season that saw her sink 24.1 points per game to go with an average of 7.4 boards.

She buried many big shots for Hewitt-Trussville, but one of them stands alone in the eyes of her coach. Payne’s signature moment came on a buzzer-beater against second-ranked Vestavia Hills in the Northeast Regional Finals this February. The Middle

Tennessee State signee accepted an inbound pass with the game tied at 46 and quickly rose up for a mid-range look at the horn. Bottom.

Her Huskies marched on to the Class 7A Final Four with a 48-46 victory over their area rival. But what Hunter remembers more than the winning shot is the reaction from the typically-calm Payne.

“Amiya never shows any emotion, but for that one shot that she took you could see her excitement come out,” said Hunter, remembering the yell Payne gave that afternoon in Jacksonville.

Hewitt-Trussville would finish the season with a record of 29-5. Payne capped off her high school career with 2,420 points scored, 744 rebounds, 217 steals and 203 blocked shots.

growth of girls’ flag football nationally. In response to the alarming low number of girls’ sports offered in Georgia in 2018, the Falcons and the Blank Family Foundation approached Gwinnett County Public Schools, the largest county in Georgia, to pilot and fully fund a girls’ high school flag football program. As a result, hundreds of girls tried out in the first year bringing the attention of other schools to the program in 2019. Last fall, Georgia became one of only four states (Alaska, Nevada and Florida) to make girls’ high school flag football an official sanctioned sport.

Following the success of the 2020 season, the Falcons participated in discussions with additional states, beginning with Alabama, to help fund high school girls’ flag football. Many other NFL teams have also started conversations in their markets to begin girls’ flag football, using the Atlanta Falcons model as a best practice.

“We are thrilled to see girls’ flag football continue to expand outside of Georgia.

The goal has always been to grow the game,” says Atlanta Falcons President and CEO Rich McKay. “The need and desire for more girls’ programming is there, and we are really excited the Alabama

High School Athletic Association has agreed to add the sport and can now give young women more opportunities to play sports in high school. We look forward to seeing how far and wide we can expand the game of girls’ flag football together.”

NFL FLAG has been leading the charge to help expand women’s flag football across the U.S. at the youth, high school, and collegiate levels. NFL FLAG will work as a strategic partner with the Falcons, AHSAA, and Nike to lead coaching clinics, develop competition guidelines, and establish a framework for high schools interested in instituting girls’ flag football in Alabama.

“NFL FLAG is proud to be a part of this unique partnership and we look forward to working with other NFL clubs across the country to help bring girls’ high school flag football to every state,” said NFL FLAG Executive Director Izell Reese, a native Alabamian who attended Northview High School of Dothan. “I am especially proud to help bring girls’ flag football to my home state of Alabama. I’m grateful to be in a position that creates more opportunities for youth athletes to participate in football.”

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