The Trussville Tribune – April 22 - 28, 2020

The Tribune

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April 22 - 28, 2020 Alabama to stay the course with statewide stayat-home order, Ivey says

By Joshua Huff, sports editor

MONTGOMERY — As Georgia and Tennessee move to begin reopening their respective states, Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey announced during a Tuesday, April 21 press conference in the Old House Chamber of the Alabama State Capitol.

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At-Home Concerts

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From The Tribune staff reports

CLAY — The city of Clay reopened Cosby Lake Park’s walking and hiking trails at 1 p.m. on Friday, April 17. The park was previously closed to enforce social distancing regulations.

Rodney Scott’s BBQ opening pop-up service Saturday in Trussville

Suspect blamed stabbing on ‘name-calling’

By Erica Thomas, managing editor

HOOVER — A local security company that is thankful to be in business during the coronavirus pandemic.

See FREE SECURITY, Page 6

Inside the Tribune News - Pages 1-5 Finance - Pages 6-7 Classified - Page 7 Obituary - Page 7 Sports - Pages 9-10

From The Tribune staff reports

TRUSSVILLE — Rodney Scott’s BBQ, which will soon be opening in Trussville, will offer a pop-up restaurant at its new location on Saturday, April 25, 2020.

See RODNEY SCOTT’S, Page 6

“It’s a senseless and ignorant act!”

Mother of young woman shot in Pinson speaks out against ‘senseless violence’

TRUSSVILLE — The Trussville Police Department arrested the man they believe is responsible for a stabbing at Firehouse Subs, off Gadsden Highway.

Police said the 19-year-

old suspect was employed at Firehouse Subs. They believe he stabbed a 16-year-old co-worker in the neck when he arrived to work around 3:59 p.m., on Wednesday, April 21.

Witnesses said the two were involved in a verbal altercation the day before. Police said the suspect claimed

the victim had been calling him names for some time.

The suspect left the scene after the stabbing but was arrested at 5:40 p.m. in the 1900 block of Brewster Road, according to Detective Ben Short. Police said he could be charged with attempted murder. He was taken to the

Trussville City Jail. The identity of the suspect had not been released.

Trussville Fire and Rescue also responded to the scene Wednesday. The victim was taken to UAB Hospital for treatment. His injuries do not appear to be life-threatening, according to Short.

Trussville Police now using body cameras on all uniformed officers

By Erica Thomas, managing editor

TRUSSVILLE — All uniformed police officers in the city of Trussville are now equipped with body cameras.

According to Rush, the body-cam usage policy includes requirements and suggestions for when the body camera should be turned on.

Citizens can assume they will be recorded any time they

See COSBY LAKE, Page 3

Local security company installs free security systems for businesses during coronavirus pandemic

Page 5

50 Cents

POLICE: Teen stabbed by co-worker at Firehouse Subs in Trussville

From The Tribune staff reports

City of Clay reopening Cosby Lake Park walking and hiking trails

Shoplifting Review

www.TrussvilleTribune.com

Reappointed Trussville City Schools BOE member releases statement thanking council, mayor

See KATHY BROWN, Page 4

TUE

71 56

See GOV. IVEY, Page 5

Kathy Brown. Photo: Trussville City Schools.

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The city approved the purchase of the cameras and new Tasers on March 24. Since the approval, the equipment has been purchased and officers have undergone extensive training. Trussville Police Chief Eric Rush said the Axon body cameras can be activated in several ways.

They can be manually activated and they will be activated any time an officer pulls a firearm, uses a Taser or turns on sirens.

have an interaction with a Trussville Police officer.

Rush said video can be used for training, documentation, evidence and liability.

“That footage can be used for complaint resolution,” said Rush. “If we have a citizen complaint on an officer, we can use it to investigate those.”

Before purchasing the cameras, six officers underwent a demo process for about six months.

“We were pleased with the results,” said Rush. “We were able to use the cameras to help with a couple of criminal investigations and with a couple of officer complaints.”

One of the criminal investigations where body camera footage was used was a trafficking in stolen identities case. Chief Rush said the footage proved who was in the car with evidence that was

pened that officer had one of the demo body cams,” Rush explained. “We went back and looked at the footage and the claims were unfounded.”

Rush said the cameras can save time on investigations.

“It’s priceless, in my opinion,” he said. “It’s a game-changer when it comes to dealing with complaints.

The vast majority of complaints are unfounded and

See PINSON SHOOTING, Page 3

Clay woman featured in viral social media videos dies

See BETTY BASS, Page 7

Steve Serra Auto Group sanitizes Trussville Police vehicles From The Tribune staff reports

found in connection to the case.

As for the officer complaint, Rush said one officer was cleared of any wrongdoing, thanks to the footage.

“It was alleged that the officer improperly searched a female and it just so hap-

this is a way to come to quick resolutions in those types of situations.”

The department has 36 uniformed officers that are equipped with the new body cameras.

TRUSSVILLE — Steve Serra Automotive Group dealerships are offering free car sanitizing to anyone who brings their car in. This week, the Trussville Police Department is taking advantage of the service.

See BODY CAMERAS, Page 5

See PD CARS, Page 3

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The Trussville Tribune

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The

Trussville Tribune

April 22 - 28, 2020

The Trussville Tribune offering ‘at-home concerts’

Skylar Wallace Foxhall

Alli Leighann

From The Tribune staff reports

190 Main Street Trussville, AL 35173 (205) 533-8664 Scott Buttram, Publisher publisher@trussvilletribune.com Erica Thomas, Managing Editor news@trussvilletribune.com STAFF WRITERS Joshua Huff, Sports Editor SALES STAFF Ryan Jennings, Director of Advertising & Sales Shari Moore, Account Executive Meredith White, Account Executive Lauren Taylor, Traffic Coordinator OFFICE MANAGER Jana Mathews

TRUSSVILLE — During this time of uncertainty and quarantine, The Trussville Tribune is hoping to put smiles on faces and to help ease anxiety among our readers and viewers, with a special at-home concert series.

Beginning Friday, April 17, The Trussville Tribune began to stream concerts live on our website and on Facebook. You can enjoy top-quality performances from the comfort of your couch. You can also watch previous live streams.

Successful talents, some from our area, have signed on to perform and we will have a special question and answer

she was only 10-years-old.

Alli’s grandfather, Paul Ott Carruth, was a singer/songwriter and he is her inspiration. Just this month, she released her first single, “Town in Tennessee.”

You can hear the song and more from Alli Leighann on www.TrussvilleTribune.com

Trussville organizations collecting used laptops, tablet for students From The Tribune staff reports

Member of the Alabama Press Association

segment for each artist. Our guests will be practicing safe distancing while in the studio or while taking over our social media, in order to combat the spread of coronavirus.

First on tap, country artist Alli Leighann. This vocal powerhouse, from Trussville, has been playing guitar since

under the “Trib TV” tab or on Facebook.

Cody Newman, from Charleston, South Carolina, took over The Trussville Tribune’s Facebook page on Saturday, April 18. You can watch her under “videos” on the Facebook page.

Newman is currently a high school freshman as a Vocal Major at her local Charter Arts School and she has released her debut EP, “End of Infinity” in September of 2019.

On Friday, April 24, Skylar Wallace Foxhall will be in the studio to perform several covers and some of her original songs. You won’t want to miss this energetic and talented entertainer. She will take the stage at 6 p.m.

TRUSSVILLE — Several local organizations called for donations of used laptops, tablets and computers, to distrib-

ute to students continuing their education from home this year.

The Trussville Daybreak Rotary, Bryant Bank and Faith Community Church announced they are collecting donations.

A large plastic container was placed at the back entrance of Bryant Bank, in order to limit contact with others.

The organizations requested donors include their name and address on their donations.

Items will be scrubbed by professionals and will be reformatted for use by the students.

If you are unable to get to the donation site, but want to help, call Jamie Townes at (205) 209-7860.

April 22 - 28, 2020

The Trussville Tribune

Local / Region

Installation of 25 Flock Safety cameras underway

By Joshua Huff, sports editor

CLAY – The Clay City Council convened digitally via Zoom on Tuesday, April 14, to conduct its regularly scheduled meeting as the coronavirus pandemic continues to disrupt nearly every aspect of everyday life.

Within that meeting, the council reminded the people that Alabama Power and Flock Safety will begin to install flock cameras throughout the city. The installation began on April 20 and should take about four days, Clay City Manager Ronnie Dixon said.

The system of license plate reader cameras captures snapshots of vehicles, not video, and alerts authorities to stolen tags, stolen vehicles, and to tags registered to a person with a warrant. Those traffic stops could potentially lead to solving a wide range of other crimes, from small

property crimes to robberies.

“These take pictures of the license plate and the car,” Dixon said during a council meeting on March 10. “You’ll get the color, the type of car and the license plate. There is a thing in law enforcement called ‘hot list,’ that is people with warrants, expired tags, those kinds of things. So, the cameras compare the shots to the hot list.”

The cameras are specifically for things like warrants, expired tags and stolen vehicles; they are not for traffic enforcement.

Dixon added that each camera costs $2,000 and the city is doing it through Alabama Power to utilize the utility poles. The city has a 24-month agreement with Alabama Power, which allows them to install cameras on the poles at the cost of $166 per camera per month.

“Nobody will be getting an invoice through the mail,” he said.

The 25 cameras will be placed at various locations throughout the city, including the entrance and exit of the ballpark, the entrances and exits of Clay Elementary School, Clay-Chalkville Middle School and ClayChalkville High School, and the following subdivisions: Steeplechase, Georgebrook, Paradise Valley, Somersby, Cosby Hills, Cosby Gardens and Cosby Lake Estates.

Dixon followed with an unrelated matter that the U.S. Fish and Wildlife has removed its opposition to the Cosby Lake dredging after the city “spent that $20,000 to prove to them that there was not anything harmful at the bottom of the lake.”

The documents will next go to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers sometime this week for them to sign off on the project. Dixon expects the project to commence in earnest around June of this year.

doesn’t allow for days off and that’s why the Steve Serra Automotive Group wants to

do all they can.

“We are happy to help any way we can,” said Serra Toyota General Manager John McDonald. “We definitely want to help our first responders.”

The dealerships offering sanitizing are Serra Hyundai in Trussville, Serra Toyota on Center Point Parkway and Serra Toyota of Decatur.

Again, anyone is able to take advantage of this free service.

PD Cars From front page

There is no charge and the sanitizing only takes a few minutes, for anyone who wants to drop in. Trussville’s officers are taking turns getting their vehicles sanitized in order to protect them from coronavirus. Among other essential workers, officers are often on the front lines in communities. It’s a job that

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Cosby Lake From front page

Mayor Charles Webster said he wants the citizens of Clay to be able to enjoy the park while practicing safe distancing.

“In order to comply with state and county mandates and ensure the health and safety of everyone, please maintain the social distancing guidelines of staying at least 6 feet apart on the trails,” Webster said. “In addition, note that opening the trails does not mean the entire park is open.”

There is still no fishing, boating picnic table use, or congregating allowed. The facilities at the park remain closed, including restrooms, swings and pavilions. Residents are asked to bring their own blanket to sit with family

Pinson Shooting From front page

By Erica Thomas, managing editor

PINSON — The mother of a young shooting survivor is speaking out less than 24 hours after her daughter was hit in the head by a bullet.

Kansas Humphrey, 22, of Pinson, was leaving her home on Tuesday, April 14, when shots were fired. The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene in the 4000 block of St. John Lane in Pinson, and Humphrey was taken to the hospital. Doctors had to remove bullet fragments from her head, but she was released from the hospital and is now recovering.

The shooting is under

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in the grassy areas surrounding the lake.

If guidelines are ignored, Webster said the park would be closed.

reopening, Mayor Webster said multiple violations were observed, including fishing and use of the picnic table.

The city warned if another

“Enjoy the beautiful weather,” he said. “We’re all in this together. Thanks for your understanding and enjoy your walking around the lake.”

Just 25 minutes after the

violation was made, the park would be immediately closed.

“PLEASE adhere to the rules so the majority of citizens are not punished due to the selfish actions of a few,” the city posted on Facebook.

investigation by the sheriff’s office, but Humphrey’s mother, Alicia Garrison, is leaning on her faith to get through the emotional impact. She has powerful words and hopes to inspire others to stop the violence.

“It’s terrifying but unfortunately it’s the world we live in,” said Garrison. “It’s a senseless and ignorant act!”

Garrison said she wants people to see that violence is not the answer.

“It doesn’t make them bigger, badder or anything else,” she said. “It’s a sign of weakness mentally, emotionally, psychologically, spiritually and even physically.”

As a mother, Garrison said she has always taught her children that everything they do will make an impact on their lives. She hopes those who resort to violence

can learn that lesson and think before they act.

“Whenever anyone tries to hurt or destroy another, in any way whatsoever, they only end up hurting themselves and help self-destruct,” Garrison explained.

“To solve the nonsense of guns and gun violence, we as a society have got to come together and it’s not a political thing. We have got to figure out a real way that works for everyone.”

Garrison said it is by the grace of God through the prayers of community members and loved ones, that her daughter survived the shooting.

“I have been touched by so many people that have and are continuing to pray for her,” she said. “God is amazing!”

The case remains under investigation.

The Trussville Tribune

Page 4

April 22 - 28, 2020

Center Point Fire District Jefferson County experiences rise in domestic participates in birthday parade for local girl violence cases during shelter-in-place order

By Joshua Huff, sports editor

By Joshua Huff, sports editor

BIRMINGHAM — Domestic violence cases have increased since Jefferson County instituted a shelter-in-place order in March, officials from the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office said.

The sheriff’s office said that in comparing domestic violence cases throughout March of 2019 and March of 2020, the department has seen a 27% increase in domestic violence cases. In 2019, deputies responded to 111 domestic violence calls, and this March, the department responded to 141 calls.

The department did stipulate that it is unsure if the increase in domestic violence cases is a direct result of people forced to remain indoors, but “it certainly raises some questions.”

“During this difficult time, everyone is on edge and anxieties are high,” the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office wrote in a press release. “Many people are concerned over finances, health and the stress of the disruption of normal activity. Try planning activities that will encourage fond memories, like going through old photos of happy times or cooking a favorite meal together. We also understand that sometimes, no matter what attempts are made, the situation cannot be resolved, or it may be a pre-existing violent relationship that is worsened by the current stressors

forced by Covid-19. Should you need assistance with a violent party, please reach out. There are still services available to those in a violent situation.”

On a positive note, the department added that statistics show there was a decrease in both violent crime and property crime this past March compared to March of last year.

As a result of the increase in domestic violence cases, the sheriff’s office offered several alternatives instead of turning to violence of any kind: • Take a walk. Should tensions begin to build, citizens can still take a walk around their neighborhood. Hopefully, this will allow both parties to have the opportunity to cool down and keep the argument from escalating.

Just remember to practice the social distancing guidelines while in public.

• Try to talk things out rather than allowing a disagreement to become physical. Avoiding raising your voice or using overly emphatic hand gestures can go a long way in keeping a disagreement under control. Even if the other party is yelling, lowering your tone and volume can often cause the other person to lower theirs as well.

• Settle arguments with words, not fists. Never raise your hand against

another person in an emotional rage.

• Clearly and calmly state what you feel the disagreement is about to the other party. Often times, an argument can develop over nothing more than one party not understanding what point the other person is trying to make. By trying this, you may actually discover that you and the other party actually have the same opinion, but are stating it differently.

The sheriff’s department also list several contacts to reach out to should a potential violent situation arise: • YWCA – The YWCA offers a 24-hour crisis line (205-322-HURT [4878]).

Their 24-hour emergency domestic violence shelters are also open and operational.

• Crisis Center Birmingham – The Crisis Center continues to provide 24hour services: • Crisis and Suicide Line – 205-323-7777 • Rape Response Hotline – 205-323-7273 • Recovery Crisis Line – 205-458-3377 • Jefferson County District Attorney’s Office Victim’s Assistance Unit – 205-325-5260 On-Call Victim Assistance Officers are available • HICA – Hispanic Interest Coalition Alabama 205-942-5505 Services and Support for Alabama’s Hispanic community

CENTER POINT – An east Birmingham girl celebrated quite the birthday on Saturday, April 18, 2020, as the Center Point Fire District brought out all the toys to wish little Zoey an amazing birthday.

The fire district joined the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, friends and family in a caravan of law enforcement vehicles, a fire truck and an ambulance in an effort to provide Zoey with a birthday moment sure to last a lifetime.

“Honored to participate in a ‘social distancing’ birth-

Kathy Brown From front page

From The Tribune staff reports

TRUSSVILLE — Trussville City School Board President Kathy Brown, who was recently reappointed to the school board, thanked the Trussville City Council and Mayor Buddy Choat with a statement during the BOE meeting on Monday, April 20, 2020.

“I would like to thank the Trussville City Council for my reappointment to the Board of Education,” said Brown. “I am so thankful for our relationship with the city council and Mayor Choat and for their continued support of the BOE.” Brown was reappointed by the council during a virtual meeting on Tuesday, April 14.

“I am happy to volunteer

day party for Zoey today,” the Center Point Fire District posted on Facebook.

The caravan, led by a fire truck with its sirens sounding, drove through Zoey’s neighborhood and past her house, which was decorated with inflatable unicorns and balloons.

Zoey could be heard giggling in the background as the caravan approached.

“Thank you,” she said as the cars drove by, the occupants waving and honking their horns.

You can watch the video in this story on www.TrussvilleTribune.com.

for another 5-year term and humbled to serve our community in this way,” Brown continued in the statement. “Our Board of Education is a hardworking group that is 100% committed to the education of our students and I am proud to play a part in that.”

Brown, who has been on the board since December of 2014. Brown, a Trussville resident since 1988, works parttime at Brookwood Advanced Wound Care Center. She has served on the Trussville City Schools Foundation while also serving in several roles for the Hewitt-Trussville Athletic Foundation since 2002.

The remainder of Brown’s statement can be read below.

I would also like to commend Dr. Neill, our administrators, and all employees on the exemplary job they have done in response to the Covid 19 crisis. They have gone above and beyond their job de-

scriptions to keep our students and families safe, healthy, and engaged in learning, with the same high standards and expectations that were present before this crisis.

The BOE will continue to be committed to the education of our students as we navigate the next few months and face ongoing changes/challenges.

We will continue to perform only essential functions and essential business as we wait on updated guidelines from the State.

The City of Trussville is a strong and resilient community and we will persevere together, and the BOE is here to serve in whatever way is needed.

The Trussville Tribune streamed the entire board meeting live and the video can be viewed on www.TrussvilleTribune.com and on The Trussville Tribune Facebook page.

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Page 5 The Trussville Tribune Trussville PD Shoplifting Review: Clay Boy Scout Troop participates in virtual campout 17 arrested despite statewide stayat-home-order There was even a Zoom

April 22 - 28, 2020

By Erica Thomas, managing editor

CLAY — During the coronavirus outbreak, many organizations are forced to cancel events. But for some who able, thinking “outside the box” means there is hardly any change.

Boy Scout Troop 124, of Clay, participated in a virtual campout. Scouts set up their own camps in their yards and

Photo from the Boy Scout Troop 124 Facebook page.

used social media, GroupMe and Zoom throughout the day to stay connected.

campfire meeting.

Organizers said the campout was a huge success and there could be another virtual campout planned in the future. Some of the Boy Scouts said going virtual made it feel like nothing had changed. In fact, some family members of scouts, who are usually unable to attend events, were able to take part in the campout.

Center Point Fire District honors fallen firefighter 20 years after death From The Tribune staff reports

CENTER POINT — The Center Point Fire District honored Firefighter/Paramedic Rickey L. Davis on Monday, April 20, 2020.

Photo from Chief Gene Coleman.

Gov. Ivey From front page

That the state’s stay-athome order will continue as planned, until April 30.

Her announcement follows Alabama Lt. Gov. Will Ainsworth and state Rep. Danny Garrett’s Small Business Emergency Task Force calling for the immediate reopening of small retailers and restaurants along with phased openings for other businesses with proper safety measures in place.

“This requires a strategic approach as well as a team effort to strike the proper balance between keeping our peo-

Davis was killed 20 years ago when he fell through a floor while fighting a structure fire.

The fire district said other firefighters worked to pull Davis from the building and revive him.

“Rickey was transported to Carraway Hospital by Lifesaver helicopter,” the fire district said in a statement. “He succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead after an exhaustive effort by the trauma team.”

The Center Point Fire District has not let the memory of Rickey Davis die. The department has hosted an annual golf tournament and other events to raise money for or-

ganizations such as the Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama, Muscular Dystrophy Association, Kid One Transport, Children’s of Alabama and Center Point Fire Explorer Program.

This year, the department paid tribute to Davis in a ceremony in front of the ckey L. Davis Memorial, located at Fire Station 1, (2229 Center Point Parkway).

“Rickey represented the core values of the Center Point Fire District: Compassion, Pride, family and Dedication, long before they were composed,” the department said.

Social distancing guidelines were followed.

ple safe and healthy and also addressing our state’s overall economic health,” Ivey said of her decision to not commit to the task forces recommendations and to instead rely on health experts to decide when its best to reopen the state.

For Ivey to allow businesses to resume normal functions, she said that testing throughout Alabama will need to drastically increase.

“We’re not testing enough yet,” she said. “We’re a little bit less than 1% of our population, and we need to do a whole lot more testing to get up to speed.”

The Alabama Department of Public Health data showed

Tuesday night that the state has tested 48,387 people.

There were 5,327 confirmed cases and 144 confirmed deaths.

Along with that, the number of cases will need to trend down for at least 10-14 days before businesses could start to reopen.

“I’m as eager as anybody to get our economy back open, but again, we have to be careful and cautious in what we are doing and do it in a smart, productive way,” Ivey said. “I plead with the people of Alabama, keep doing what you are doing. Social distancing, personal hygiene and staying at home.”

From The Tribune staff reports

TRUSSVILLE — The Trussville Police Department posted its shoplifting review featuring 17 arrests from March 23 – April 20, 2020.

Those 17 people accused of traveling to Trussville to shoplift are: Angele Stroud, Justin Holmes, Lisa Lacey,

Body Cameras From front page

Rush said with new technology, he believes all law enforcement officers can benefit from wearing body cameras.

“The wide-angle lens gives

Starrangel Ballard, Timothy Postell, Terr Farrier, Shaintel Moulton, all of Birmingham; Virginia Smallwood, of Nauvoo; Matthew Dickey, Bradley Williams, James Sisson, all of Pinson; Adriane Pilatom, Daril Langford, both of Jasper; Elana Witt, of Fairfield; Catherine Alexander, of Springville; Jennifer Rigg, of Leeds; Mandy Zann, of

Moody.

The police department warns anyone coming into Trussville to steal could end up on social media.

“All arrest and arrest photos posted on (our Facebook page) are public information.

All subjects are innocent until proven guilty,” the department posted on its Facebook page.

you a full view of what’s happening,” said Rush. “It used to be sort of a tunnel-vision situation where you only saw what was directly in front of you.”

Axon maintains the footage and stores it in a secure server for at least six months.

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The Trussville Tribune

Page 6

April 22 - 28, 2020

Finance & Business

Springville will wait for Ivey’s orders Rodney on when to reopen businesses; Mayor Scott’s expresses trepidation for Small Business restaurant will be in Emergency Task Force recommendations the The location of the former Jo-

to salad, drinks and meat that will be sold by the pound.

In normal circumstances, the restaurant offers whole hog barbecue, spare ribs, fried catfish, barbecue chick-

en, mac n’ cheese and other southern favorites, including banana pudding.

Rodney Scott was the 2018 winner of the James Beard Award for Best Chef in the Southeast.

Organizers say they are thankful to be able to bring food to people while keeping them safe and strong.

Pihakis, which is based out of Birmingham, also owns Little Donkey, Mile End and Hero Doughnuts. The company’s founder and CEO, Nick Pihakis, was the founder of Jim ‘N Nicks BBQ.

security services, with a delayed payment plan.

“We won’t ask for them to pay until they are back up and running because we want to serve the businesses and make sure they’re protected,” Hardman explained.

day how they can best serve their customers.

“We don’t view ourselves as a technology company,” said Hardman. “That’s what we do but we view ourselves as a service company. We provide a service to the com-

From front page

By Joshua Huff, sports editor

SPRINGVILLE – Though Alabama Lt. Gov. Will Ainsworth and state Rep. Danny Garrett’s Small Business Emergency Task Force has called for the immediate reopening of all small retailers and restaurants, Springville Mayor William Isley Jr. expressed some trepidation of the task force’s suggestions during a city council meeting on Monday.

Ainsworth and Garrett, of Trussville, both of whom helm the Small Business Emergency Task Force, announced in a press conference this past Friday that retail stores, restaurants, hair salons, nail salons, tattoo parlors, massage parlors and childcare facilities throughout the state should all reopen with social distancing guidelines in place.

“When it comes to reopening the economy and putting people back to work, we believe every business is an essential business,” Ainsworth said. “Each day our economy stays closed, the ripple effect goes through the state.”

Isley stated in the final mo-

ments of the council meeting on Monday, April 21, 2020, that he believes the task force might be pushing a bit too hard to return the state to normalcy as coronavirus cases and deaths continue to rise in Alabama.

“It has not peaked yet,” Isley said. “I don’t really think they’re going to pull it off until it peaks. I believe the governor is going to listen to health department officials until this final recommendation comes down.”

The city of Springville will wait, Isley added, for the governor to issue the order to reopen businesses. The Small Business Emergency Task Force’s utterances are simply recommendations built behind a push from some businesses to reopen despite the state not having a firm grasp on the continued uptick in virus cases.

“Our citizens would love for us to say, ‘We’re playing ball on June 1; We’re meeting together in restaurants and not caring where we sit and we’ll take care of our own,’” Isley said. “This is some of the comments that our citizens are saying: ‘If we want to go out to eat, we’ll go out to eat. We’ll take our own chances.’ But our

job, our responsibility as leaders, is to provide and follow the guidelines issued by the governor.”

This past Friday, Gov. Kay Ivey said that the reopening of the state’s economy must be a gradual and cautious process.

This comes despite a concerted push from businesses to be allowed to reopen while balancing health concerns and worries that limited testing has not fully tracked the state of the virus’s spread in Alabama.

“Consistent with what we’ve been saying all along, the president made it clear that the return to ‘normal’ won’t be a quick or simple process.

We will need to see declining cases – and stronger testing – over at least 14-days – to make certain we don’t see a return in the spike up of the infection,” Ivey said in a statement.

The governor is expected to announce a decision soon.

In the meantime, Isley wants the people of Springville to know that a return to normalcy will not come within a week.

“I urge you to continue to pray that there’s a better day ahead,” Isley said. “And I believe there is.”

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el’s Restaurant on Highway 11, in downtown Trussville.

The pop-up will be offered in the parking lot of the location.

The pop-up will be open from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Guests can buy Rod Sanwhiches (Rodney’s take on the original pork sandwiches) and chicken sandwiches. There will also be chips, slaw, pota-

Free Security From front page

Is giving back by offering 10 free security systems to businesses in the region.

Rob Hardman, the president of Chorus SmartSecure, said the goal is to protect businesses as they navigate a financially challenging time, “We want to help them,” said Hardman. “We recognize that their revenue is not what they would like it to be right now. We tell them we want to protect their facility today.”

Chorus SmartSecure will also monitor the systems for 90 days. If companies are not interested in continuing service after the three months, Hardman said the deal is a no-strings-attached deal.

“If you decide after all this is over that the system isn’t needed, we will come and take it out,” said Hardman. “For us, we looked at what sort of investment we wanted to make and it was 10 systems.”

After the 10 free installations, Hardman said Chorus SmartSecure will offer other companies a reduced rate for

Photo: Wasabi Juan’s Facebook page.

Wasabi Juans was one of the first companies that received a free security system.

Hardman said after learning the business was burglarized, his company wanted to make a difference.

“They were just so excited that we decided to do that,” said Hardman.

Hardman said employees with the company ask every

munity that meets the needs that they have.”

Chorus SmartSecure is based in Hoover and serves homes and businesses all over the state. The company installs smart home systems and custom home audio and video systems. For more information, go to the company’s website at https://callchorus.com/.

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The Trussville Tribune

April 22 - 28, 2020

O b i t u a ry

Richard E Lee III september

26, 1950 ~ april 16, 2020 (age 69)

Richard E. Lee, III - 9-26-1950 - 4-16-2020. Preceded in death by parents Cleo Nell & Richard E. Lee, II, step daughter, Jennifer Cox and step son, Scott VanHorn. Survived by wife, Teresa Lee; son Ross Lee (Jennifer); sister, Debbie Burrell (Johnnie); grandchildren, Austin, Alex and Ashlyn Cox, Devin & Dylan Lee. He will be truly missed by many friends & extended family. Rick retired from BMC Montclair/Trinity after 35 yrs. in radiology. His declining health caused the closing of his beloved business “Rick Lee’s Tree Stump Removal”. Rick enjoyed working many landscapers & customers over the past 40 years. He will be truly missed by all that new him. We take comfort in knowing that he will be rejoicing pain free in heaven.

Jesse Oliver Faggard january

William Sisco august

1, 1948 ~ april 17, 2020 (age 71)

William Sisco, age 71, passed away April 17, 2020. William was a man of very few words and was a retired mechanic with Astro Auto Dismantling. He loved tinkering on old cars and watching wrestling. He is survived by his longtime loving companion of 30 years Henrietta Walker, daughter Nancy Yester, son Roger Sisco, stepson Charles Walker, sister Linda Mullus, numerous nieces and nephews.

Jonathan Francis Felice march

30, 1986 ~ april 17, 2020 (age 34) Jonathan Francis Felice died unexpectedly on Friday, April 17, 2020

28, 1941 ~ april 17, 2020 (age 79)

He had been living locally since 2001 after relocating from Alabama.

Jesse "Sonny" Faggard, age 79, of Birmingham, AL went to be with the Lord on Friday, April 17, 2020. He was a wonderful and devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend. He was retired from Stockham Valves & Fitting where is was a millwright and was an active member of the Zamora Shrine and Masonic Lodge for over 50 years He was preceded in death by his parents, Jesse Thomas Faggard and Mattie Lou Faggard, his wife Ruth Ann Faggard, his brother Eugene Faggard and sister Vivian Diane Clements and her husband Hayden Ronnie Clements. He is survived by his son, Joey Faggard (Rebecca), grandson, Jordan Faggard and granddaugher, Olivia Faggard; sister in law Denise Faggard and multiple neices and nephews. In lieu of flowers please make donations to the Shriner's Hospital for Children.

Born March 30, 1986 in Huntingdon, England he was the son of Francis and Dawn Felice.

After England He moved to Tabb, Virginia due to his father’s serving as a pilot in the Air Force. He then moved to Alabama where he attended Hewitt Trussville Schools.

In 2001 he relocated to Staatsburg, NY where he attended F.D. Roosevelt High School in Hyde Park and Dutchess Community College.

A talented plumber, he worked for Lambert’s Plumbing for many years before beginning his own business, Felice Mechanical. He was also a skilled HVAC technician.

Jon liked sports and was very athletic. He had the rare talent of being good at any sport he tried!

He was a former member of the Italian Center in Poughkeepsie.

Fred Schmitt september

Page 7

4, 1931 ~ march 25, 2020 (age 88)

On March 25, 2020, Fred Dewit Schmitt went home to spend eternity with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Fred worked as a Milkman for White Dairy and owned Phillips 66 and Fred’s Chevron in Tarrant, AL from which he retired in 1995. He loved all sports, but had a special affinity for baseball. He earned a baseball scholarship to Mississippi State University but chose to accept an offer to play professional baseball with the Detroit Tigers organization.

He married his high school sweetheart , Bunnie Jane Curlette, at home plate before one of his games in Griffin, GA in 1950. Together, they built a life and a loving family that includes their children, Steven (Kathi), John (Renee), Shari (Van), Joe (Betsy), and Jane. Fred also leaves behind his precious grandchildren and great grandchildren whom he adored.

Fred will be remembered for his unwavering faith, his generous nature and his love for his family. He loved and was loved greatly and will be missed by all who knew him.

On September 7, 2012 at Our Lady of the Rosary Chapel of St. Peter’s Parish, he married his high school sweetheart, Laura Osterhoudt-Felice, who he loved and adored with all his heart. His wife survives with their beautiful son Chace Felice, who he couldn’t have been more proud of and his beloved dog Guiness. In addition to his wife, parents and son, he is survived by his brother, Gregory Felice; sister, Skyler Felice; maternal grandmother, Norma Shore; aunts and uncles, Laura and Steve Scardaci, Shari and Frank Gallo, Shelly and Al Viani, Garrett and Deirdre Entrup, Steven and Donna Felice, and Don and Ellen Felice. Jonathan is also survived by many cousins who he loved dearly and had many unforgettable memories with.In 2005 Jonathan was predeceased by his beloved oldest brother, Michael, who he is now reunited with in heaven.Jonathan also had a big extended family on his wife’s side; mother-in-law Kathleen Osterhoudt and father-in-law “Odie” Osterhoudt, brothers in law Ryan Osterhoudt and his wife Jennifer, David Osterhoudt and his wife Andrea, sisters-in-law Anna Dosio and husband Vinny, Susie Scarpelli and husband Justin and many nieces and nephews who he made each one know how special and loved they were. He was also predeceased by his paternal grandparents, Joseph and Ruth Felice; maternal grandfather, Garrett Entrup; and his wife’s grandmother, “Grandma O”. Jonathan had a smile that could light up a room and warm a stranger’s heart. He was always there for the ones he loved without hesitation. He had a special presence about him that no one will ever forget. Jonathan loved life and lived it to the fullest. He will forever be missed but never forgotten. Out of respect and concern for public health and safety, funeral services will be private.

Visitation was held on Monday, March 30, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. A graveside service immediately followed. Due to the current COVID-19 Virus threat, proper restrictions regarding numbers of people visiting at a time and spacing guidelines were followed. When life is back to normal and baseball resumes, the family will plan a Celebration of Life Memorial.

He will be buried quietly and respectfully next to his brother, Michael, at Union Cemetery of Hyde Park. In lieu of flowers, Jon’s family respectfully requests memorial donations to benefit his son Chace’s education. Please make payable to Rhinebeck Bank and mail to Mr. Fran Felice, 54 Shadow Lane, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the First Baptist Church of Roebuck Plaza in Fred’s memory or to your favorite charity.

To send an online condolence from the safety of your home, please visit www.sweetsfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements are under the direction of Sweet’s Funeral Home, Inc., Rte. 9, Hyde Park.

Local law firm offering free wills to healthcare workers From The Tribune staff reports

TRUSSVILLE — Amari & Gray Legal Advocacy and Consulting is offering free wills to all local healthcare workers, all essential hospital staff and their spouses.

Johnny Amari said his firm was inspired to help others by watching those on the front lines of the coronavirus pandemic.

“To all local healthcare workers, we know that you’re putting your health at risk for us and it got us thinking, ‘what can a bunch of lawyers do for

you?” said Amari.

Mr. Amari recognized that this gesture doesn’t compare to the sacrifices being made by healthcare workers, but he was hopeful that by taking at least one thing off the minds of healthcare workers it would free them up to focus more on what’s important.

Johnny Gray said his inspiration came from some of those closest to him.

“Healthcare workers and nurses, in particular, are close to my heart,” said Gray. “My mother is a nurse who has been furloughed during this pandemic, my sister-in-law

is a nurse actively working in a hospital facing challenges related to this pandemic, and my wife is a nurse who runs a non-profit that is currently serving those affected by this pandemic. I can’t think of a better group of people for us to try and give back.”

The firm has streamlined the process for the healthcare workers in an effort to minimize time and effort required of them. For more information, visit the firm’s website and social media platforms, www. amariandgray.com, Instagram @AmariandGray, or www. facebook.com/amariandgray.

By Erica Thomas, managing editor

The young man devoted much of his spare time to visiting Bass and posting videos of her on Facebook. He took her to dinner often and made the most of their time together.

Moore made regular trips to the store for Bass and spent endless hours entertaining her with outdoor activities

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From front page

Photo from Clint Moore’s Facebook page.

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Betty Bass

CLAY — It was a friendship for the ages and one that will go down in local history. Betty Bass, of Clay, was well known because of social media videos with her best friend, or as she called him, “her bestest friend,” Clint Moore. Bass, 92 passed away on Saturday, April 18, 2020.

Bass, who lived at Elmcroft Assisted Living, lived a life full of love, excitement and cherished friendships, according to her loving family.

Her most prized friendship was the one she shared with Moore.

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and games. The two even had visits during the coronavirus outbreak, when Moore visited her from outside of her home.

You can see the full story of the friendship between Bass and Moore and a video featuring their friendship, on www.TrussvilleTribune.com.

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They put their hands on either side of the window, separated only by glass. The love between the best friends was timeless.

After a story featuring the two was published in The Trussville Tribune, Bass said she couldn’t stop smiling. She was instantly a local celebrity and all her friends at Elmcroft were happy to see her story in the paper.

Bass said she was able to live to an old age because of Moore; he kept her young and strong. She said if she had one wish, it would be that Moore would find happiness in his life and find a wife that would love him dearly. She left this world knowing her best friend was in a happy place.

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The Trussville Tribune

Page 8

April 22 - 28, 2020

Census 101: What You Need To Know The 2020 Census is here. Here is what you need to know and why you need to BE COUNTED!

Everyone counts.

The Census counts every person living in the U.S. once, only once and in the right place every 10 years.

We could lose a

congressional seat.

It's in the Constitution.

The results of the Census are used to reapportion the House of Representives determining how many seats each state gets. Alabama is in danger of losing a seat if we are undercounted.

The U.S. Constitution requires a census every 10 years. The first Census was in 1790.

It means $675 billion.

Census data determines how more than $675 billion in federal funding is spent. Be counted and help Jefferson County get its fair share.

Be Counted!

It's Secure.

Federal law protects your Census responses. Your answers can only be used to produce statistics. By law your information cannot be shared with any other government agency.

You can fill out the Census form online, by phone, or by mail.

Help your community by being counted in 2020.

Brought to you by the Jefferson County Complete Count Committee.

Page 9

655-2095

sports

Keeping Co Community 1st Always

Pinson Valley’s Class 6A Player of the Year Kam Woods commits to Troy

Experts struggle with where to place former HTHS football standout Noah Igbinoghene in 2020 NFL Draft

By Joshua Huff, sports editor

The 2020 NFL Draft begins this Thursday and former Hewitt-Trussville and Auburn football standout Noah Igbinoghene is a prospect who has befuddled many experts as to where the Trussville native will go and when he will go.

See IGBINOGHENE, Page 10

Nick Saban favors extra teaching time, not longer fall camp

By JOHN ZENOR AP Sports Writer

TUSCALOOSA — Alabama coach Nick Saban doesn’t believe extending preseason camp for college football teams around the country is necessarily the best way to get them ready for the season.

Saban said Thursday that he’d prefer some “teaching sessions on the field” over the summer to prepare for camp, even if it is in shorts and T-shirts.

See NICK SABAN, Page 10

The Trussville Tribune

By Joshua Huff, sports editor

PINSON — The 2020 Class 6A High School Basketball Player of the Year Kam Woods took to social media on Tuesday to announce his college decision.

Woods, a 6-foot-1 senior at Pinson Valley, will next take his services to Troy University.

“I want to take the time out to thank the community, the fans, the teachers and all my coaches,” Woods said in a commitment video. “… I want to thank the whole Bessemer community for making me who I am. I want to thank Midfield, I want to thank Pinson for accepting me and (allowing me) to display my talents.”

The three-time player of the year finished his final season with the Indians as the nation’s No. 6 scorer, according to Maxpreps. He concluded his five-year high school varsity basketball career as a two-time state champion, an ASWA 2019 Super All-State Team honoree, as the 2019 Class 6A state tournament MVP, as the Alabama Sports Writers Association 2020

Kam Woods, a 6-foot-1 senior at Pinson Valley, will next take his services to Troy University. Photo by Joshua Huff.

Class 6A Player of the Year award, the 2019 Class 6A Player of the Year award and the 2018 Class 3A Player of the Year award.

Throughout the past few weeks, Woods was named as a Class 6A First-Team AllState member, which marked the fourth consecutive season that Woods has been named to the All-State team, and

was part of a 30th annual Alabama-Mississippi AllStar Classic boys’ basketball team that defeated Mississippi, 118-97, in a record-setting performance earlier in March.

Woods concluded his final campaign at Pinson Valley in 2020 as a member of the 3,000-point club and as one of the nation’s top scor-

ers. In 32 games played this season, Woods averaged 37 points, 5.3 rebounds and 4.3 assists. He helped guide a talented Indians squad to a 28-4 record and a berth in the 2020 Class 6A regional championship game.

“Kam is like the son I never had,” Pinson Valley head coach Darrell Barber said following the Indians’ 2020 regional championship loss to Huffman. “We’ve been together for seven years now and I’m just extremely proud of him for what he’s done for himself. It’s been a pleasure watching him grow up from a young boy into the young man that he is today. There is no doubt in my mind that he is destined for greatness.”

In the final game of his high school career, Woods scored 34 points, four assists and four rebounds in the loss to eventual state champion Huffman. Woods earned Class 6A All-Tournament team honors for his performances throughout the state tourney.

Troy concluded the 2020 season 9-22. The Trojans are searching for their first winning season since going 2215 in 2016-17.

April 22 - 28, 2020

As colleges cut sports programs as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, could new models emerge?

By RALPH D. RUSSO, AP College Sports Writer

College sports programs are already being cut and more are likely on the chopping block.

The coronavirus pandemic has triggered fears of an economic meltdown on campuses around the country. The cancellation of the NCAA men’s basketball tournament cost schools $375 million and more losses are expected, especially if football season is disrupted in the fall.

In tough times, athletic administrators often drop sports programs to save money. In the past few weeks, Old Dominion said it will drop wrestling and Cincinnati will no longer have men’s soccer. Warnings of tough times ahead have come from all over college athletics, even some of the wealthiest Power Five schools.

“To say it’s not going to have any economic impact — that, I would say, would be grossly naïve,” said Oklahoma athletic director Joe Castiglione, who oversees a program that had $148 million in operating revenue in 2017-18 and boasts of 20 straight years of balanced budgets.

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The Trussville Tribune

Page 10

Igbinoghene

Nick Saban

Round 1 of the NFL Draft begins on April 23 from Las Vegas with Rounds 2 and 3 on April 24 and Rounds 4 to 7 on April 25. The draft will be broadcast on ABC, ESPN, the ESPN app and NFL Network.

As the draft approaches, the experts paid to predict — somewhat accurately — where prospects will end up, have begun to focus their boards amid rumors and uncertainty.

And according to those draft experts, placing Igbinoghene with a specific team and within a narrow window has proven to be quite the task.

The former Tigers’ cornerback has heard his name bounced between the first and third round with little to no concrete certainty of where he might land.

ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. released his latest mock draft this past Tuesday and placed Igbinoghene as the 31st pick in Round 1 to the San Francisco 49ers.

“Igbinoghene also fits the 49ers,” Dalton Johnson, of NBC Sports Bay Area, wrote on April 14. “The former receiver-turned-cornerback is raw but full of potential. San Francisco needs a young corner opposite of Richard Sherman, especially with Sherman entering the final year of his contract. The Auburn product is explosive — he ran a 4.48 40-yard dash at the NFL Scouting Combine — and extremely physical. The 49ers could use some of that physicality, but he will need some grooming. Sherman could be a great mentor for him.”

However, Peter King of NBC Sports released Round 1 of his mock draft on Monday afternoon and the legendary football guru omitted Igbinoghene from the first round altogether. This uncertainty of just where Igbinoghene will fall was encapsulated in a teleconference this past Thursday with NFL Network analyst Daniel Jeremiah.

The coronavirus pandemic led to the cancellation of spring sports, including football practices, across the nation.

Saban isn’t sold on the idea of extending fall camp.

“If you look at statistics historically on concussions, injuries … the most concentrated time that you practice and not play is in fall camp,” Saban said on a conference call with reporters. “You have more practices; you have to spend more time on the field. So, I don’t know

From page 9

From page 9

Hewitt receiver Noah Igbinoghene breaks away from would-be tacklers.

Photo by Chris Yow.

Jeremiah highlighted the difficulties of scouting a player like Igbinoghene who has little to show on tape of dominate performances unlike former teammate Derrick Brown, who is projected to go in the top 10.

“Igbinoghene from Auburn is a tough one because he’s got the athletic ability and the toughness that you love, he’s just really struggled to play the football and hasn’t made many plays,” Jeremiah told media outlets. “He’s got first-round athleticism and he’s got lateround production, so trying to sort him out is a tricky one.”

Some experts, like Kiper, have projected that Igbinoghene’s upside has a potential to land him in the first round, but the most likely path for him lies somewhere within the second and third rounds.

NorthJersey.com’s Andy Vasquez ushered in the idea that Igbinoghene could possibly be a good fit for the New York Jets in Round 3.

“Igbinoghene has all the tools to be an elite corner at the next level, but he’s still learning the finer points of playing cornerback — he switched from receiver after the 2017 season,” Vasquez wrote. “He mixes speed (4.47 40-yard dash at his pro day) and athleticism, mixed with a competitive mindset and aggressive streak that stands out on tape.

But his instincts in coverage are lacking and he’s still very much a work in progress. But he’d fit right in with the Jets’ proven defensive coaching staff and their need for depth at cornerback.”

The NFL followed with the top two ideal picks for all 32

Noah Igbinoghene takes a jet sweep against Gardendale.

Photo by Kristi Slawson.

NFL teams and Igbinoghene was listed as being the best fit for the Buffalo Bills in Round 2.

Igbinoghene is a former Hewitt-Trussville All-USA Today Alabama First Team selection who played in 26 career games with Auburn. The son of two former Olympic athletes finished his career with 92 total tackles, 19 passes defended, one forced fumble and one interception. He concluded his final season with the Tigers as the 10th-leading tackler on the team with 42 tackles, one tackle for loss and broke up seven passes.

“I have the intangibles to do anything in this world,” Igbinoghene said during the NFL Combine. “I moved from wide receiver to corner (at Auburn) and started in six days. Not a lot of people can do that. I really take pride in that.”

The former four-star prospect began his Auburn career with 14 starts as a freshman but only recorded 35 total yards. Frustrated, Igbinoghene switched to defense prior to his sophomore season and split time at receiver and defensive back during spring practice.

Despite the switch, Igbinoghene still led Auburn with 11 pass breakups that season.

“I’m really confident in anything that I do,” Igbinoghene said. “I really feel like I’m the best corner here, because if you don’t, then why are you here? You’re here to compete.

You’re here to value yourself as the best. That’s how I feel like and nothing is going to change that.”

Programs From page 9

“We’re just hoping to minimize it,” he said.

Paving the way for more cuts to come, the commissioners of five Bowl Subdivision conferences have asked the NCAA to waive over the next four years a slew of requirements for Division I membership, including the minimum number (16) of sports a school must sponsor.

Some observers see the coming crisis as a chance for schools to consider radical changes to how athletic departments are run or for new development paths to emerge for young athletes.

“Budgets reflect our values,” said Arne Duncan, a former U.S. education secretary and now co-chair of the Knight Commission on Intercollegiate Athletics. “I think we’ll see now whether in a time of cutbacks, what gets prioritized. Is it the interest of adults and unbelievably high salaries? Or is it the interest of student-athletes and preserving their chance to compete and to put academics first?”

A.J. Maestas, founder of the sports analytics consulting firm Navigate Research,

April 22 - 28, 2020 that increasing that is going to be beneficial in getting people ready to play.

“I think if you could do simulated training programs in the summertime that wouldn’t involve that much contact or even any contact, that would be just as beneficial at that point.”

In the meantime, he’s still doing the 7:30 a.m. meetings with staff — just online instead of in person. Parts of the afternoon are devoted to video conferences and phone calls with recruits.

They work on specific techniques in video sessions with players.

Saban made it clear he didn’t want to address speculation about whether there would be a football season.

“I never really answer hypothetical questions,” he said. “I’m sure that everybody’s going to want me to speculate on what’s going to happen in the future, and nobody really knows. It’s very uncertain. It’s uncertain times.

“I think we have to fight through the process of what we need to do on a day to day basis to make good choices and decisions, to the right thing at the right time regardless of the circumstance.”

said “a couple hundred” sports programs were cut during the last economic downturn after the 2008 financial crisis. Most programs don’t break even and he expects more cuts this time, too.

“If donors are unable to step up and endow the program or at least keep it above water there will be a number of programs that will be cut, especially if it’s a sustained economic downturn, which seems pretty realistic,” he said.

Nancy Zimpher, former chancellor of the State University of New York and a member of the Knight Commission, said cutting sports programs is short-sighted at a time when colleges could be facing a decrease in overall enrollment.

Having a large variety of sports programs “provides a great recruitment opportunity for the whole university,” she said.

David Ridpath, a former NCAA compliance director and professor of sports business at Ohio University, said he fears schools will use the economic crisis as an excuse to make program cuts they had already been pondering.

He also wonders if fewer opportunities for athletes in

non-revenue college sports provides a catalyst to sever some of the ties between amateur athletics and higher education in the United States.

In his book, “Alternative Models of Sports Development in America,” Ridpath makes the case that the U.S. should move toward a European-style academy system.

Elite young athletes develop their games and receive an education, but the two are not tethered the way they are in American colleges.

“My argument has always been schools should not be a primary source of elite development,” Ridpath said. “We need to have other models for those elite athletes to be taken care of.

So for me, it’s not throwing college athletics and high school athletics out the window. It’s reframing it and also making education-based sports more participatory.”

Former Big 12 Commissioner Dan Beebe has an even more radical idea: College athletics should be broken into spectator sports (ones that make money) and participation sports (ones that don’t). Schools would provide athletic scholarships in spectator sports, but not in participation sports.

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