The Trussville Tribune – May 5 - 11, 2021

The Tribune

TRUSSVILLE • ARGO • MOODY • PINSON • CLAY • CENTERPOINT • SPRINGVILLE LEEDS • MOODY • TRUSSVILLE • PINSON • CLAY • CENTER POINT • ARGO SPRINGVILLE • TRUSSVILLE • LEEDS • MOODY • PINSON • CLAY • CENTER POINT • ARGO • SPRINGVILLE • TRUSSVILLE • LEEDS • MOODY • PINSON CLAY CENTER POINT • ARGO • SPRINGVILLE • LEEDS • MOODY • TRUSSVILLE PINSON • CLAY • CENTER POINT • ARGO • SPRINGVILLE • ARGO • SPRINGVILLE PINSON • CLAY • CENTER POINT • ARGO • SPRINGVILLE • LEEDS • MOODY TRUSSVILLE • PINSON • CLAY • CENTER POINT • ARGO • SPRINGVILLE • LEEDS MOODY • TRUSSVILLE • PINSON·CLAY • CENTER POINT • ARGO SPRINGVILLE • LEEDS • MOODY • TRUSSVILLE • PINSON • CLAY • CENTER POINT • ARGO SPRINGVILLE • LEEDS • MOODY • TRUSSVILLE • PINSON • CENTER POINT TRUSSVILLE • ARGO • MOODY • PINSON • CLAY • CENTER POINT • SPRINGVILLE

See DRUG ARREST, Page 5

‘We’re going to get you’: Leeds PD cracks down on drivers passing stopped school buses

By Erica Thomas, managing editor

LEEDS — The Leeds Police Department has had success with a new addition to school buses.

See LEEDS BUSES, Page 4

Irondale officer holds hand of dying shooting victim; suspect arrested

By Erica Thomas, managing editor

IRONDALE — In today’s climate, law enforcement is challenged to overcome many obstacles. We often see the negative side of police work but it is rare that officers are highlighted in a positive way.

See IRONDALE, Page 3

Moody PD vs. Teachers softball game raises money for scholarships and classroom donations

By Erica Thomas, managing editor

MOODY — The Moody Police Department raised money to go towards scholarships and classrooms in the name of two fallen officers.

See MOODY GAME, Page 4

FRI

SAT

SPRINGVILLE — For some people, giving back feels better than getting something. The Springville High School Key Club is doing both. It is giving back to the community and to the nation but also receiving some recognition and representation.

SHS sophomore Elaine Bryan was recently elected to serve as the 2021-2022 Alabama Key Club Secretary. Each division also has Lt. Governors. SHS student Mya Ownbey was elected as State Lt. Governor for Division 6 and SHS student Alanna Howard was elected State Lt. Governor for Division 5.

The selections were made at the District Convention (DCON) for the Alabama District. Jack Wisdom from Auburn High School was elected Governor for the 2021-2022 school year.

Springville High School Key Club sponsor Amanda Umphrey said the club is no stranger to state offices. In fact, SHS had three girls to

Left to Right: Mya Ownbey-Newly Elected State Lt. Gov Division 6; Alanna Howard-Newly Elected State Lt. Gov. Division 5; Shannon Lee-Alabama Governor 2020-21 (Senior); Elaine Bryan-Newly Elected State Secretary All 4 are SHS students. Photo: Amanda Umphrey.

serve last year. Shannon Lee, a senior, served as Governor.

Umphrey said Lee encouraged Bryan to run for office.

“She really encouraged Elaine to run and Elaine actually served as a state officer last year. She was a Lt. Governor,” said Umphrey.

Umphrey said Bryan will be busy as Secretary, taking care of paperwork, re-

cord-keeping and planning next year’s convention. She will also have to start soon on earning 50 service hours.

Key Club is the oldest and largest service group for high school students and members are part of the Kiwanis International family.

“Key Club is a great thing because it is all about serving others,” said Umphrey. “It is

70 49

76 56

81 64

77 62

78 60

24%

5%

5%

8%

33%

51%

45%

Mom’s Day Out

Page 2

TRUSSVILLE — Everyone has that special teacher that they remember. Maybe you remember your English teacher because she taught you how to communicate effectively and become an excellent writer. Maybe you had a sweet spot for your science teacher because he helped build the foundation that allowed you to become a doctor.

Perhaps you remember your kindergarten teacher because she was your first teacher.

Oh, that smile and welcoming voice was always comforting to you because you didn’t like when your mom dropped you off at school. Somehow, knowing your teacher would be with you all day helped you get through those trying times.

That first teacher for many people in Trussville was Mrs. Donna Smothers Walker. For 33 years, she graced the halls of Trussville City Schools

until she retired in May 2019. But 2021 came with an unexpected turn. Walker passed away at the age of 57. Her death was shocking to her loved ones, her many acquaintances, and the community. Although she is no longer with us, several of her former colleagues are determined to make her legacy last.

Former Paine Primary Principal Betsy Schmitt, Walker’s former teaching

partner and current teacher Gina Lackey, and Diane Byars, who works at Hewitt-Trussville High School, put their heads together to come up with a scholarship fund in Walker’s name. The scholarship will be awarded this year and her friends believe it is exactly what Walker would want them to do.

“She spent 33 years in the Trussville community, teaching kindergarten and started

student-led and all we do is serve others.”

Key Club participates in service projects around the school and the community.

Local students have worked in soup kitchens, homeless shelters, animal shelters and other non-profit settings.

They have worked St. Clair County Save a Life and they work concession stands for some sporting events.

At this year’s convention, the SHS Key Club took home honors for their work.

“We have won a ton of awards over the past several years,” said Umphrey. “We won two awards this time.

We won the Best Overall Single Service Project and we won first place in the Major Emphasis Service Project.”

Umphrey said the major emphasis was children. The club submitted a project to Read Across America.

“We spent a week going in and out of the classrooms at Springville Elementary reading books,” explained Umphrey.

See KEY CLUB, Page 4

kids off right,” said Schmitt.

“So many people were reaching out and asking what they could do and we just thought if anything she would want to help out one of her former students.”

The Donna Smothers Walker Memorial Fund will help a student that was in Mrs. Walker’s class.

“We want to offer a minimum of $500 to one student,” said Schmitt. “But depending on how much we get between now and then, it could be more than one student or it may be a higher amount.”

Schmitt said Walker was one of those teachers that students remember. Her warm smile and welcoming personality influenced many of the students that were in her class. To this day, her former students appreciate their beloved teacher.

“She was the ultimate kindergarten teacher,” Schmitt said.

Robin’s Sewing Shoppe

Inside the Tribune

www.robinshoppe.com

News - Pages 1-9 Food Scores - Page 10 Calendar - Page 11 Classified - Page 11 Obituary - Page 12 Sports - Pages 13-14

5886 Trussville Crossings Blvd 205.655.3388

16

-

Fabric Machines Classes Demos

Prep Playoffs

Page 13

50 Cents

Scholarship fund established in the name of beloved Trussville teacher

By Erica Thomas, managing editor

TUE

72 49

Springville High School Key Club making waves statewide

By Erica Thomas, managing editor

SUN MON

75 50

www.TrussvilleTribune.com

May 5 - 11, 2021

POLICE: Man wanted by feds busted at Trussville hotel after ‘increased drug activity’

WED THU

See WALKER, Page 7

Center Point Fire and Rescue on scene of apartment fire, multiple units damaged

See FIRE, Page 9

New sign shop hopes to bring ‘hip and modern’ flair to Trussville

By Erica Thomas, managing editor

TRUSSVILLE — A Trussville couple is opening a new sign shop and their vision is one of innovation for the city.

Amie and Andrew McCullough are the owners of Cahaba Design Co. See SIGN SHOP, Page 6

Trussville teen kicks off campaign to raise cancer research money on anniversary of father’s death

By Erica Thomas, managing editor

TRUSSVILLE — A junior at Hewitt-Trussville High School is working to make a difference by participating in a fundraising competition to support the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

See CANCER RESEARCH, Page 7

Slab poured for new Trussville City Schools central office From The Tribune staff reports

TRUSSVILLE — Crews on Monday, April 26, 2021, poured the slab for the new Trussville City Schools Central Office.

The two-story building will provide a centralized space for Trussville City Schools’ (TCS) Central Office team.

See BOE BUILDING, Page 4

The Trussville Tribune

Page 2

The

Trussville Tribune

May 5 - 11, 2021

‘Mom’s Day Out in Trussville Downtown’ to celebrate mothers TRUSSVILLE — Trussville Downtown is hosting a special event for Mother’s Day weekend. Moms Day Out in Trussville Downtown will be held on Saturday, May 8.

The event will be similar to the Cookie Walk. There is no charge to participate, but moms will receive a freebie, discount or promotion item from each participating location.

Monday.

• Rebecca Brown’s A Baby and Children’s Boutique – BOGOHO Buy one get one half off for all the moms • Amari Curb Market – We will have two baskets to raffle off. They will both consist of organic wine, clean beauty products from Verde Lusso, and pottery from wild goose garden, art from Amari photography. The value of each basket is about $300. Winner

value over $100 • Whistle Stop Garden Shop – Bring your mother or any special motherly figure in your life by our Pop Up sale at Ferus and get your picture with our beautiful floral install dedicated to all the mothers in our community for the perfect photo wall!

• Dixie Love Tshirt Company – All mothers receive a 50% off coupon for a future purchase. We will be located at the Whistle Stop

with any purchase • Cookie Dough Magic – Free mini scoop for all moms. Kids can decorate Mother’s Day cards to give mom on Mother’s Day from 1pm-4pm.

• EW Motion Therapy – giving away a free yoga class • Trussville Antiques & Interiors – Enter a drawing for a Magnolia Home wooden cake stand and $25.00 gift card. Drawing will be the following Monday.

• Three Earred Rabbit – 50%

“This event is designed to bring customers into Trussville Downtown to shop local this Mother’s Day while also celebrating all the mothers in our community,” said Katie Peoples Cox. The following merchants are participating: • M.P. Dawson Mercantile – Register for a Mother’s Day Gift Basket drawing.

Winner will be chosen on

will be chosen at 5pm on Saturday.

• Sky Bear Confections – drawing for a $25 store credit. The drawing will take place on the Tuesday after mother’s day.

• DeDe’s Book Rack – “Bring Mom in and receive a free Journal” • Carroll Pharmacy in Trussville – “All mothers enter drawing for gift basket”

Garden Shop Pop Up at Ferus.

• Sherry’s Cafe- “Free dessert to all Mothers with purchase of meal! In-house and drive-thru.”

• Great Harvest Bread Company – offering a free Cinnamon Roll for Bringing Mom Out valid while supplies last being the date of Mother’s Day • Jimmy Johns – free cookie

off all ice cream sundaes and shakes ( excluding monsters shakes) • Pastry Art – For every two dozen Baby Bites purchased , the customer will receive a complimentary box of six for Mother’s Day. • Shirley’s Florist – offering a free carnation and enclosure card with every purchase.

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 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 Lara Sciro, Office Manager

Member of the Alabama Press Association

Keith Landscape Co. & Nursery Sales 36 Years Serving Clay, Trussville & Surrounding Communities

OUR NURSERY OFFERS ALL TYPES OF

MULCH – GRAVEL – STONE – PEA GRAVEL SAND – PINE STRAW (ROLLS OR BALES) We provide professional advice on anything landscape!

§ § § § § § § § § §

Plants/Shrubs Trees Bedding plants Fertilizers Herbicides Screened topsoil Blended garden soil Fill dirt Chert Red rock

We deliver or load on your truck!

WE SELL SOD

BY THE PIECE OR BY THE PALLET! Our sod is green during growing season, not left on pallets.

Monday - Friday 8am-4pm Saturday 8am-12pm

www.KeithLandscaping.com

6750 Trussville-Clay Rd. - Trussville, AL (205) 681.8787

May 5 - 11, 2021

The Trussville Tribune

Local / Region

Page 3

Pinson area woman Judge to consider reinstating bond for charged with beastiality Clay murder suspect County Jail on Tuesday, April

27, 2021. Her bond was set at $5,000.

Wyatt, who lives in east Jefferson County, near Pinson, is accused of engaging in sexual contact with a dog.

The St. Clair County District Attorney’s Office has not returned a phone call asking for more information in the case.

Adair, who has been a police officer for only about a year, told the victim to squeeze his hand, in an attempt to keep him conscious.

“He repeatedly told him to open his eyes because he was struggling to stay awake,” Mangina added.

Gibson was eventually taken to UAB Hospital where he underwent surgery. Unfortunately,

and the suspect knew each other and the shooting was domestic in nature.

Allen Armer is charged with murder in the death of Gibson.

Justice will likely be served in the case and Mangina said the actions of Gibson is just one example of the great things to come for local law enforcement.

he did not make it. He died the next day, according to Jefferson County Coroner Bill Yates.

As for the shooting investigation, detectives spoke to two witnesses on the scene, as well as the victim. Gibson told police that a man in all black clothing with a black ski mask tried to rob him of his cell phone. When he refused to hand it over, the man opened fire, striking him under his arm.

Upon further investigation, detectives learned the victim

“This is extremely important, especially in today’s climate,” said Mangina. “Law enforcement is just like every other profession. There’s always a couple of bad apples but lately, we’ve been so fortunate to get such great quality men and women that we are just so proud of. They’re young, they’re smart and they seem to know what they’re doing. They want to be human about the whole thing and I think that’s important nowadays.”

From The Tribune staff reports

kill his girlfriend’s husband and was charged with harassment, according to court documents.

However, in a motion to reinstate his bond, Chambers’ attorneys denied the allegations. In clarification, his attorneys said Chambers’ girlfriend has been undergoing divorce proceedings for

From The Tribune staff reports

CLAY — A judge will consider reinstating the bond for a man charged with murder in connection to the death of a man in Clay.

Jacob Naquade Chambers, 33, of Odenville, is charged with murder in the shooting death of his stepfather, 56-year-old Paul Edward Trull Jr. The victim was killed on Tuesday, Nov. 24, 2020, at a home in the 7500 block of Weems Lane in Clay. The suspect was taken into custody from the scene but was later released from jail after posting bond.

A judge revoked that bond on April 14 after Chambers was accused of threatening to

two years and the couple did not start dating until after divorce papers were filed. They said the current husband and the defendant got into an argument that was overheard by others. They deny that Chambers threatened the husband.

Furthermore, the attorneys said their client has had to file police reports about the hus-

band threatening him in the past.

The attorneys also said when their client learned he was on the most wanted list, he turned himself in “because he didn’t want a dangerous situation created.”

The judge in the case will consider reinstating Chambers’ bond on May 5.

As for the defense in the murder, court documents state that Chambers was upset regarding a confrontation during which the victim had been accused of assaulting another family member. A court affidavit states Chambers shot Trull with a pistol.

The murder case has been bound over to a Grand Jury.

Men from Moody and Center Point indicted for scheme to steal funds from Chick-fil-A BIRMINGHAM — Two former Birmingham Chickfil-A employees were indicted on Tuesday, April 27, on charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and wire fraud.

and digital payment accounts to trick customers and divert payments for catering orders and other restaurant sales to bank accounts under their personal control.

Black is the former Director of Hospitality and Powell is the former Manager of the

Larry James Black, Jr., 37, of Center Point, and Joshua Daniell Powell, 40, of Moody, are accused of devising and implementing a scheme to divert hundreds of thousands of dollars in customer payments between April 2018 and January 2020.

Prosecutors said Black and Powell used fraudulent email

Chick-fil-A Five Points.

“Before and during this period, Black is also alleged to have made a series of fraudulent representations to financial institutions,” said Prim F. Escalona, the United States Attorney for the Northern District of Alabama. “In January 2020, for example, Black applied for a mort-

From The Tribune staff reports

gage loan. In connection with his loan application, Black forged payroll records and made misrepresentations regarding his income from the Chick-fil-A franchise. Black also provided a fictitious social security number to banks and credit unions where he held accounts. Ultimately, proceeds from the scheme to defraud Chick-fil-A Five Points were deposited into accounts at these same financial institutions. “ If convicted, Black and Powell face a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison for conspiracy to commit wire fraud, and a maximum of 20 years in prison for wire fraud. Black also faces a maximum of 30 years in prison for bank fraud, and a maximum of five years in prison for misuse of a social security number.

The U.S. Secret Service Cyber Fraud Task Force investigated the case, which Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward J. Canter is prosecuting.

An indictment contains only charges. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

Yard Sale May 8th 7am - Noon 7476 Clayton Road, Clay

All proceeds benefit our youth & children’s ministries. www.facebook.com/NorthClayBaptist

ASHVILLE — The St. Clair County Sheriff’s Office has arrested a Jefferson County woman on a charge of beastiality.

Kimberly Wyatt, 30, was booked into the St. Clair

Irondale From front page

But one rookie Irondale officer is showing that there are great men and women protecting citizens every day.

Officer Davis Adair was the first officer to arrive on the scene of a shooting in the early morning hours of Wednesday, April 28, 2021. When he arrived just before 4 a.m., he found Dewarren Lovell Gibson, 21, suffering from a single gunshot wound in the chest area. The victim was in the breezeway at an apartment complex located at 4400 Hunter Ridge Way. The Birmingham native, Gibson, was fighting for his life with each breath.

Adair knew he had a job to do and part of that job was comforting Gibson. Sgt. Michael Mangina said the officer kneeled down beside the victim and held his hand until help arrived. Mangina said he hopes the family of Gibson is comforted knowing he was not alone during this terrifying moment.

“Hopefully this will make the family feel better,” said Mangina. “They’re certainly grieving right now but just to know that this one policeman held his hand and tried to comfort him is just awesome.”

The Trussville Tribune

Page 4

Leeds Buses From front page

The Leeds City School System recently added rear and front tag reader cameras to all buses within the system after receiving numerous complaints about cars passing stopped buses.

The school system spent $40,000 outfitting 15 buses with cameras back in December 2020. When the system purchased 15 new buses, school system leaders opted to have those buses outfitted as well. Now, all buses have the feature.

ty Week is every year in October. In 2020, the theme was “Red Lights Mean STOP!” The National Association for Pupil Transportation reported that 98 pedestrians under the age of 18 were killed in school transportation crashes between 2007 and 2016.

Furthermore, in 2018, over 108,000 school bus drivers observed almost 84,000 vehicles illegally passing school buses in a single day.

School bus stop-arm cameras are not able to stop incidents but they are able to bring those to justice who decide to ignore the warnings.

Photo: Leeds Police Department Facebook page.

When buses are stopped, their stop sign deploys and flashing lights warn drivers that students are entering or exiting the bus. However, Leeds City Schools Superintendent John Moore said that hasn’t been enough to stop dangerous driving behavior.

“We had a real problem and I think most communities do,” Moore said. “People have just become very lax and irresponsible.”

National School Bus Safe-

The Leeds Police Department released a PSA on the matter to spread the word.

Chief Jim Atkinson said his officers are working hard to ticket offenders.

“We’re going to enforce it,” said Atkinson. “Anybody that runs around that bus when it’s flashing, it’s going to get their tag number and take a picture of them and we’re going to run them down and give them a ticket.”

The Leeds City School

System has never had an incident with injuries involving drivers passing stopped school buses but Leeds City Schools Transportation Director Lee Gibson said the cameras are a proactive approach to preventing such incidents.

“Our bus drivers do a really good job of not opening the doors until they’re sure that oncoming traffic is stopped,” said Gibson. “They seem to think that people are getting the message that they have to stop at the stop signs.”

Gibson said as of Thursday, April 29, 57 citations had been issued to drivers, thanks to the cameras.

The penalty for illegally passing a school bus is $500 plus court costs.

“It’s all about child safety and we have had problems with complaints from the bus drivers that they will be stopped with their flashing lights and people will just come on around them,” Chief Atkinson added. “Either they’re on their cell phone and not paying attention or just not paying attention but it’s definitely dangerous for these kids getting on and off school buses and if you do that, we’re going to get you.”

As for parents, Gibson said they can rest assured their students are as safe as possible when boarding a Leeds City school bus.

“Know that our drivers are very experienced drivers and they are doing all that they can to make sure at every stop that their child is safe getting on and off the bus,” Gibson said.

Key Club From front page

Umphrey has something to be proud of herself. Not only is she the Key Club sponsor, but she also serves as the school’s Media Specialist, School Technology Coordinator and AP Coordinator. She started working at the school in 2006 and took over Key Club. At that time, she had 30 members. Now the Springville High School Key Club has 87 members. Outgoing Key Club Governor Shannon Lee recognized Umphrey with a Governor’s Award this year, for all that she does.

“That was really special

Elaine Bryan.

to me because in her speech she said I was the one that encouraged her,” said Umphrey.

“I had a crying spell. She said she never thought she could be governor.”

May 5 - 11, 2021

Moody Game From front page

The Moody Police Department Memorial Softball game raised enough money to give two $1,000 scholarships to seniors at Moody High School and two $500 donations to teachers at the school. The scholarships are presented in honor of Officer

Photo: Moody Police Department Facebook page.

Izzy, the Moody PD K9 SRO watches on as her favorite people compete in fundraiser softball game.

Photo: Moody Police Department Facebook page.

Keith Turner who was shot and killed in 1998. The classroom donations are in honor of Lt. Stephen Williams who was shot and killed in 2020.

Chief Thomas Hunt said the city of Moody has always provided scholarships for students, but about six years ago, the police department decided to get involved to raise even more money. Hunt said it is important for them to support schools and students.

“It’s always been a good fundraiser and it helps us to be able to help outfit classrooms and better equip students,” said Hunt.

Carpenetti’s Pizza and Chick-fil-A sponsored the softball game between police officers and teachers.

The teachers won the game, something Hunt said happens every year.

The deadline for the scholarship has already passed and selections are underway.

Neill said. “Our school system was established in 2005

and we will soon have our first-ever central office building. We have functioned with departments all over the city, and now we will have central leadership, food service and technology under one roof.”

TCS celebrated the groundbreaking of the central office in January of 2021.

In November, Blalock Building Company was awarded the bid to construct the new building. Construction will take approximately one year to complete.

Drone video of the progress, made by Ron Burkett, is available to view on www.TrussvilleTribune.com.

BOE Building From front page

Which currently works in three separate buildings throughout the city. The new building will be located on Highway 11, across from Winn Dixie.

Superintendent Dr. Pattie Neill said she is looking forward to having all central services under one roof. She said the design of the building will reflect the system’s excellence.

“This building marks an historic moment in the success of Trussville City Schools,”

Amanda Umphrey.

You can learn more about the Alabama District Key Club by clicking on the linkBirminghamEaseAd-2021.qxp_Florence Ad in this story on www.TrussvilleTribune.com.

savings around the corner.

Let us help you save on car insurance and more.

Greg Armstrong 5950 Chalkville Mountain Road , Birmingham geico.com/birmingham-armstrong 205-508-6077 item 1 Some discounts, coverages, payment plans, and features are not available in all states, in all GEICO companies, or in all situations. GEICO Is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, DC 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. GEICO Gecko image © 1999-2020. © 2020 GEICO

3/5/21 12:54 PM Page 1

Photo: Ron Burkett.

Still Here, Still Caring for Our Community

Specializing In: Long Term Care and Short Term Rebabilitation

BirminghamEast

Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, LLC

733 Mary Vann Ln. Birmingham, AL 35215 Tel: 205.854.1361 • BirminghamEastRehabCenter.com

Home organization & Interior design services.

NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS!

Babies Don’t Come with Instructions…

We’re Here to Help!

(205)856-4440

totsnteenspediatrics.com

3729 Mary Taylor Rd. / Birmingham, AL 35235

MURDOCK

TIRE & AUTO REPAIR

Tires & Complete Car Care Service

108 Watterson Pkwy Trussville, Al 35173

205.508.5993 | Mealsbymisty.com M-F 9:00 - 7:00, SAT 9:00 - 3:00

205.655.1515 ALWAYS AT A GREAT PRICE YOU CHOOSE STYLE & FABRIC

5715 Chalkville Road Birmingham, Al 35235 205.853.1066 Facebook.com/bettsace

HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING

Serving the Birmingham Metro Area, Jefferson, Shelby, St. Clair and Blount Counties

BARNETT FURNITURE 6961 Gadsden Hwy

205-655-7049

www.barnettfurniture.com Facebook/barnettfurniture

SERVICE SHEET METAL INSTALLATION

655-5130

5071 Cardinal Street - Trussville

Follow us on Facebook for deals on Oil Changes & Tires!

5700 Chalkville Mtn Rd

205-844-5600

The Trussville Tribune

May 5 - 11, 2021

SPOC launches new grid inverter technologies company

From The Tribune staff reports

TRUSSVILLE — SPOC Automation is a family of innovative companies specializing in variable speed drive automation and inverter technologies. SPOC is the leader in inverter drives and has taken that experience to the grid inverter technology

and give the user control of their power systems in numerous applications such as: marine system propulsion and thruster equipment and island power systems; renewables; battery energy storage; solar- or wind-driven applications in remote areas; as well as pumps, water management or compression systems in remote applica-

Photo via SPOC Automation's Facebook page.

space by launching its newest company, SPOC Grid Inverter Technologies, Inc. SPOC has successfully deployed 70,000 inverters into the harshest industrial environments. We produced an annualized energy savings of more than $443,000,000 and reduced CO2 emissions by 3,185,449 metric tons per year for our clients through our technology and expertise.

SPOC Grid Inverter Technologies is equipped to further allow enhanced performance and provide new energy alternative configuration choices, assist in reducing carbon emissions

tions for oil and gas operations.

“We are excited about this new company and technology, as it is a natural progression to our core,” said SPOC President and CEO Robert Mason. “SPOC is ecstatic to not only serve our current customers with alternative solutions, but to broaden our reach and assist new companies and markets as well.

“I am as excited about the launch of this company as I was when we began SPOC Automation 20 years ago, and I am looking forward to carrying on the great work we do and elevating our capabilities to new heights,” he

continued.

The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) projects that world energy consumption will grow by nearly 50% between 2018 and 2050. Because of this, there is a need for balancing power supply and demand for many grid-connected, off-grid and island applications.

SPOC Automation made a name for itself manufacturing automation technology for the oil and gas industry.

Now, by pairing its new Grid Inverter Technologies with decades of know-how designing and manufacturing variable frequency drives, SPOC is impacting a whole new market.

SPOC Grid Inverter Technologies is already impacting the market by making the operation of hybrid energy systems intuitive and effective.

A report from SolAbility shows not having a renewable energy infrastructure cost the world $3 trillion in 2013, and if we continue along the current path, energy cost (global expenditure for energy consumption as percentage of the global GDP) is going to continue to rise from 1.4% in 2013 to 2.1% in 2035.

“SPOC’s inverter technologies are providing electrical alternatives to marine, renewables and energy storage, U.S. Department of Defense, critical power, mining, and oil and gas industries that they have never had before with smart grid inverters and energy storage systems,” said Mason.

To learn more about SPOC Grid Inverter Technologies, Inc., visit www.spocgrid.com.

Page 5

Motorcycle crashes in Trussville during Trooper pursuit

Flock Safety cameras show motorcycle moments before it crashed. Photo: Trussville Police Department.

By Erica Thomas, managing editor

TRUSSVILLE — A pursuit led by troopers with the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) ended in a crash in Trussville on Saturday, May 1, 2021.

St. Clair County deputies attempted to pull over a motorcycle but the driver refused to stop and fled.

“A Bolo was issued and an officer with ALEA located the motorcycle near the Grand River Outlet Mall,” the Sheriff’s Office said in a press release. “The motorcycle was pursued by ALEA into Trussville where the

Drug Arrest From front page

By Erica Thomas, managing editor

TRUSSVILLE — The Trussville Police Department captured a man wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service during an investigation into reports of increased drug activity at the Quality Inn off Norrell Drive.

Jason Dion Flakes, 41, of Birmingham, is now facing a charge of unlawful possession of marijuana first-degree.

*Amount of rebate will not exceed purchase price.

driver lost control.”

The chase ended in the 2800 block of Queenstown Road, just before 3 p.m.

Troopers said law enforcement officers were chasing the person because he had outstanding warrants and a revoked license. The man was driving a Yamaha sport bike. Deputies with the St. Clair County Sheriff’s Office

and officers with the Trussville Police Department were on the scene of the crash, along with two State Troopers.

Trussville Fire and Rescue also responded to the scene to evaluate the driver.

Troopers said he was transported to St. Vincent’s East with minor injuries.

Charges are pending.

During an investigation at the hotel, detectives spotted Flakes in a hand-to-hand transaction with a female. According to a police report, Flakes left the location and failed to come to a complete stop before exiting the parking lot. He was pulled over on Chalkville Mountain Road at the Interstate 59 South ramp.

The detective discovered Flakes had an outstanding felony warrant with the U.S. Marshals Service for a probation violation in connection to a charge of a felon in possession

of a firearm. Flakes was arrested and while searching his car, detectives said they found 21.4 grams of marijuana.

Flakes was taken to the Trussville City Jail to await extradition by the U.S. Marshal’s Service. The Trussville Police Department later obtained a felony warrant for unlawful possession of marijuana first-degree.

Two calls to the Quality Inn Trussville, for comment on increased drug activity, went unanswered due to “technical difficulties.”

The Trussville Tribune

Page 6

May 5 - 11, 2021

U.S. News & World Report: Hewitt-Trussville named 20th best high school in Alabama From The Tribune staff reports

TRUSSVILLE — The US News & World Report ranked Hewitt-Trussville High School at number 20 on the list of Best Alabama High Schools. The school was number 8 on the list of best schools in the Birmingham-metro.

Schools are ranked on their performance on state-required tests, graduation and

how well they prepare students for college. The rankings were determined by weighing college readiness (30%), math and reading proficiency (20%), math and reading performance (20%), underserved student performance (10%), college curriculum breadth (10%) and graduation rate (10%).

At HTHS, the report stated, students have the opportunity to take Advanced Placement coursework and

exams. The AP participation rate at Hewitt-Trussville High School is 58%. Also noted, the total minority enrollment is 20%, and 7% of students are economically disadvantaged. The graduation rate is 98%.

Hewitt-Trussville High School is ranked #1,694 in the National Rankings.

In years past the school has been included on the list.

Last year, Hewitt-Trussville High School was number 17,

in 2019, number 18 and in 2018, number 7.

The following is the list of rankings for the state of Alabama in 2021:

out to even more people.”

Cahaba Design Co. makes large signs, banners, promotional items, business cards, logos, custom invitations and more. McCullough said her designs are unique and of a professional grade.

“We want to be more like your hip and modern sign shop,” said McCullough. “We

don’t want to sell your just generic type thing. We are more updated. We care more about the design and the branding and making businesses look good and professional than we do just getting paid and sending them out the door.”

Cahaba Design Co. also appreciates the atmosphere the city of Trussville has created. They work with the city’s Design Review Committee to ensure that what they sell will fit into the vision for each area in Trussville.

“We specialize in branding,” said McCullough. “We want to make Trussville look nice. We are proud of where it’s going and we want to be a part of that.”

The company has also worked with the Trussville

Sign Shop From front page

They will open a new location in downtown Trussville in May. Andrew grew up in Trussville and graduated from Hewitt-Trussville High School. The two met while in college in Texas and decided to eventually make Trussville their home. Amie went to school for graphic design and has been in the business since.

Aime McCullough has been working from home but recently saw a need in the city.

When a new spot opened, she took the opportunity. Not only are they opening a brickand-mortar, but they are also upgrading their equipment.

“I’m excited,” said McCullough. “We are going to try our hardest to please everyone. We have had some longtime customers in the area like Courtesy Buick GMC, Trussville Gas and Water, and a lot of people have worked with us for many years. So, we are just going to move it up a notch and reach

FROM FACEBOOK: Roy Brook Mercedes-Benz of Birmingham.

Good job with the new American Flag. The reason for this post is that there wasn't a flag on the pole for weeks. I sent them a message asking why. They responded and said they were rebuilding the pole to make it sturdier. Good job.

10. James Clemens High School 11. Hartselle High School 12. Auburn High School 13. Oak Mountain High School 14. Arab High School 15. Ramsay High School 16. Cullman High School 17. Hoover High School 18. Huntsville High School 19. Brewbaker Tech Magnet High School 20. Hewitt-Trussville High School

Area Chamber of Commerce.

The new shop is located at 111 North Chalkville Road, Trussville. A grand opening celebration will be held on Wednesday, May 5, from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. There will be a ribbon-cutting ceremony

at 4:30 p.m. and Food Integrated Training, Inc. will be catering the event. Puttin’ On the Ritz DJ Service will also be providing music and lights for the celebration.

For more information, call (713) 382-4260.

Springville Council approves compensation for municipal judge in May 3 meeting

By Terry Schrimscher

SPRINGVILLE — The Springville City Council approved the monthly compensation package for Municipal Judge Lee Barnes during the regular meeting on May 3.

Barnes, who was appointed at the beginning of Mayor Dave Thomas’ term, is a local attorney who serves the city part-time. Compensation for the position is set at $1,100 per month.

To begin the meeting, the council approved consent agenda items discussed in the pre-meeting work session. The consent agenda included the approval of $200 for two portable toilets and a handwashing station to be used at the Shop Springville event being held by the Chamber of Commerce May 14 through May 16.

The Council approved the renewal of a $6,640 annual HVAC contract with Servco as a consent agenda item.

The Council also approved requests for Public Works Director, Earl Peoples, to proceed with getting

bids for a survey to expand the road width on Purple Heart Blvd and to get bids for putting new stripes on Springville Station, the road in from of the Wal-Mart shopping center leading to city sports fields.

The city previously approved restricting large truck

PROTECT YOUR MOST VALUABLE ASSETS...

Call Vulcan to help protect your home, health & property!

WILD LI FE ?

1. Loveless Academic Magnet Program High School 2. New Century Tech Demo High School 3. Mountain Brook Brook High School 4. Vestavia Hills High School 5. Homewood High School 6. Bob Jones High School 7. Booker T Washington Magnet High School 8. Spain Park High School 9. Fairhope High School

traffic on Purple Heart Blvd. due to the width of the road.

A proposed ordinance to create a four-way stop in the Crandall Crest neighborhood was not approved. Members of the Council debated on whether a stop sign is an effective means of controlling speed and agreed to research other options including posting speed limit signs within the subdivision.

Don Smith, President of the St. Clair County Economic Development Council (EDC), spoke during the meeting to update the city on some of the work of the EDC. Smith said the EDC has successfully recruited more than $1 billion in new business to St. Clair County. He also said the council conducts a strategic plan every five years to help guide the work of the EDC to focus on changing needs in the communities it serves.

“Every five years we do a strategic plan. This last go around it was obvious around the county that tourism was something they wanted to see the EDC more involved in,” said Smith. “That not just natural tourism but different events that are out there.”

Smith said the EDC hired Blair Goodgame to help promote tourism in St. Clair County including the creation of festivals in cities throughout the county.

Smith said the EDC was very excited about the work being done in the Big Canoe Creek Nature Preserve in collaboration with the State of Alabama’s Forever Wild program and he believes the EDC can help promote tourism at the park when it is open.

The Council plans to review a proposal to purchase historic property in the downtown area in the next regular meeting on May 17.

Contact Us at 663-4200 or online at www.vulcantermite.com

TERMITE &

PEST CONTROL INC

Serving the State of Alabama Since 1965 Pelham, AL 35124

Meal Replacement Shakes & Loaded Teas 3190 Moody Pkwy, Moody 205-352-0322

The Trussville Tribune

May 5 - 11, 2021

Page 7

Tribune Living

Local Revolutionary Estimated 15,000 War patriot honored in pounds of paper Springville brought to Community Shred Day in Trussville From The Tribune staff reports

By Erica Thomas, managing editor

TRUSSVILLE — The Trussville Chamber of Commerce reported a successful Community Shred Day on Friday, April 30, 2021.

Nearly 250 vehicles came through the line at the Trussville Civic Center to give their sensitive documents to Gone for Good Document & E-Waste Solutions trucks.

Garet Smitherman, with the Better Business Bureau, said the free event could prevent someone from becoming

a victim of identity theft.

“I think a lot of people would assume that most identity theft occurs from a data

breach online or something like that, but in reality, the majority are traced back to a piece of paper, a tangible document that ends up in the wrong person’s hands.”

Smitherman estimates over 15,000 pounds of paper were collected in four hours at the Community Shred Day event. He said he hopes to have another shred day event in Trussville in the fall.

For more information on protecting yourself from identity theft, go to bbb.org.

Trussville Rotarians sponsor book nook for housing authority

Photo: Diane Poole.

From The Tribune staff reports

TRUSSVILLE — The Trussville Rotary Daybreak Club helped sponsor a book nook for the Jefferson County Housing Authority on Wednesday, April 28, 2021.

The book nook was installed at Terrace Manor II, in Bessemer. Anyone can borrow books from the standalone box. The box is one of 10 book houses that was built and donated to Better Basics by the Rotary Club.

“The Book Nook at Terrace Manor II is further sup-

Rotarians Ken Vaughan (who is executive director of the Jefferson County Housing Authority), Van Horne, Mike Ennis, and Dr. Kristi Bradford (who is executive director of Better Basics). Photo: Diane Poole.

ported by a generous donation from the Caring Foundation & Corporate Giving of Blue Cross/Blue Shield, a Mentor level sponsor for Better Basics,” said Diane Poole.

Poole said once a book nook is installed, Better Basics checks on it regularly to ensure a constant supply of books for birth through highschool-aged people.

The Trussville Rotary Daybreak Club meets at 7 a.m. on the first through fourth Wednesday mornings of each month at First Baptist Church Trussville (128 N. Chalkville Road). For more information on the Trussville Rotary Daybreak Club, or to help with a project, email Diane Poole at dianepoole1225@centurytel. net.

183 MAIN STREET // SUITE D TRUSSVILLE AL 35173

205.655.1009

SPRINGVILLE — Dozens of people came together in Springville in honor of a local Revolutionary War patriot.

Thomas Jones, Jr. was honored in a rededication ceremony on Saturday, March 27, 2021. The Josiah Brunson Chapter of the Alabama Society Daughters of the American Revolution hosted the event.

Sandy DeBerry, the Vice Regent for the Josiah Brunson Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution said over 50 people came to the event to pay respects to Jones at the Pleasant Hill United Methodist Church

Cemetery in Springville, Alabama.

“Mr. Jones was born in Abbeville County, South Carolina on June 16, 1764, and died in St. Clair County, Alabama on September 23, 1846,” DeBerry said. “He joined the fight against the British in 1780 at

the age of 17 and served valiantly for three years.”

DeBerry and Chapter Regent Donna Davis organized the event.

The Alabama Sons of the American Revolution Color Guard performed a patriotic flag ceremony.

Cancer Research From front page

Hannah O’Kelley was nominated by the LLS board to participate in the Students of the Year program. She said the cause is dear to her heart because of her own personal experiences.

“It’s important to be because I’ve been directly impacted by the effects of cancer with my dad passing away when I was in fifth grade,” said O’Kelley.

O’Kelley’s father, Kevin O’Kelley, died in 2015 from kidney cancer. Since then, she has felt the need to strive to make a difference.

“Curing any kind of cancer is amazing but to hear that the research that goes into treating leukemia and lymphoma helps treatment and research for other cancers is what sold me on this,” she said.

The program started on Thursday, April 29, the anniversary of her father’s memorial service. The fundraiser will continue for seven weeks.

The money raised from

Walker From front page

“You have to have a calling to teach kindergarten. She truly had a natural motherly love for all of those kids. She wanted the absolute best for them and she worked hard to bring it out of them.”

If you would like to donate to the Donna Smothers Walker Memorial Fund, you can do so at any Bryant Bank location.

Students can apply for the scholarship by writing about a memory they have from their time in Mrs. Walkers’ class.

Hannah O’Kelley and her family.

O’Kelley’s campaign will be in honor of a young cancer patient who is currently in remission from a blood cancer. Each dollar donated counts as a vote and donations are tax-deductible.

“Our mission is to not only raise the most money but also to bring attention to blood cancers like leukemia, which is the most common form of cancer in children and teens,” said O’Kelley.

The candidate team that raises the most money will be named Student of the Year.

O’Kelley hopes to garner support for the cause to make her father proud. She said she has been able to maintain good grades in advanced and AP classes while playing soc-

cer. She also participates in the school’s Service Association.

Donations will support LLS-funded research and help provide critical information and support for patients.

Donations will be accepted through June 17.

You can learn more about Hannah’s campaign and help the cause at https://events.lls. org/al/bhamsoy21/hokelley.

O’Kelley will also be on Tribune Unscripted on Monday, May 17, to talk about the program.

The organizers of the scholarship said they don’t want anything fancy, but they are asking for applicants to explain how Mrs. Walker impacted their lives. With the countless lives she touched, the organizers of the scholarship believe there will be plenty of applicants to choose from.

“Kids loved her, parents loved her, and she was always just a lifetime learner,” Schmitt added. “She was just always innovating in the late hours, doing something to bring to school and encourage her kids.

She was also a friend to all.

She was just a kind lady.”

The deadline for seniors to apply for the scholarship is May 14, 2021.

Schmitt said it is possible the scholarship could be offered for more than one year. It just all depends on donations.

For those who didn’t know Mrs. Walker, a donation in honor of your favorite teacher is money well spent.

To apply for the scholarship and for information on other scholarships being offered to seniors this year, click on the link in this story at www.TrussvilleTribune.com.

Sherry’s

Cafe • Catering • Cakes

OUR GUARANTEE:

MOVE BETTER // FEEL BETTER // LIVE BETTER

e w m o t i o n t h e r a p y. c o m PHYSICAL

THERAPY

//

YOGA

//

TRAINING

//

ZUMBA

//

PILATES

205-655-5260 5800 Valley Rd Ste 110 Trussville, Al 35173

Online Ordering Now Available

www.sherryscafetrussville.com

The Trussville Tribune

Page 8

May 5 - 11, 2021

2021 Mother’s Day Gift Guide Happy Mother’s Day from

The Trussville Tribune

Celebrate MOM!

Arrangements • Wreaths Decor • Gift Baskets • and More...

Shirley’s Florist

233 Main Street Trussville • 205-655-1600 www.shirleysfloristonline.com

ROBIN’S SEWING SHOPPE

In Store Daily: Baby Bites, Cupcakes, Cheesecoins Pre-Order: Cakes, Cookies, Scones, Brownie Pops, & Mini Cheesecakes

5886 Trussville Crossing Blvd Birmingham, AL 35235 205-655-3388

5291 Valleydale Road Hoover, AL 35242 205-848-2303

WWW.PASTRYARTCAKES.COM

205.508.4000 • 1430 Gadsden Highway, Trussville

The Trussville Tribune

May 5 - 11, 2021

Page 9

Leeds Council declares CRIME STOPPERS: derelict house on Cahaba Trussville man wanted for Avenue a nuisance aggravated stalking

Zoning Administrator Brad Watson presents data at Leeds City Council meeting on May 3, 2021. Photo: Nathan Prewett.

By Nathan Prewett

LEEDS – The Leeds City Council declared a house on 7580 Cahaba Avenue to be unsafe and a public nuisance due to its deteriorated condition against the wishes of the owner, who had an interest in renovating the building, at a meeting on Monday, May 3.

A public hearing was held in which the man, who identified himself as Wesley Sims, spoke to the council and said that he had found the house from a seller last summer and had spoken with the inspections department in Leeds, as well as engineers to renovate the building and bring it to code for he and his family to live in.

Sims also said that he had the yard cleaned up, expressing confidence that the house can be fixed within his engineer’s timeframe.

He pointed out that the general area around the property was “blighted” and wanted to help rehabilitate it.

“I want to see a neighborhood there again one day,” he told the council. “And I want to be a part of it.”

Public Works Director

Brad Watson then spoke to the council, saying that Councilman Kenneth Washington placed the house on a list for condemnation.

The recommendation for condemnation was made after the inspections department noted failures in the building’s foundation, supporting walls, roofing, electrical systems, and plumbing systems. Vagrants had also used the building and caused damage to the interior.

Watson presented photos showing some of the damage to the structure, which can be found on the agenda portion of the city’s website. He said that because of the damage the house is under the Existing Building Code, which he said states that all of the systems in the structure have to be brought back to code.

Sims spoke again and mentioned that the interior has been cleaned and refurbished but said that the structural damage remained an issue. He also said that structural plans were being formed but estimated that they would be ready to be reviewed in approximately a month.

The effort to renovate

the building was doubted by city officials, including Glen Williams from the building inspections department, who said that it would be “a substantial amount of work to bring it back to code.” Mayor David Miller doubted that the plans could be formulated in the timeframe.

After discussion, the council voted unanimously to pass the resolution in the regular meeting after the hearing. Sims was visibly angry with the decision, and a brief but tense exchange began between him and Miller. The mayor said that Sims’ point of view had been heard but Sims disagreed before leaving the building.

Following this, the council then tabled a resolution to consider municipal court appointments to a future meeting.

In reports by department heads, Fire Chief Chuck Parson again mentioned a live fire training drill that simulated fire emergencies for the fighters. He also said that next week he and others in the department will be going to a meeting in Ohio on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday.

Leeds Jane Culbreth Library Director Melonie Carden reported that the library is preparing for the summer reading program on May 17 and that activities will be done outdoors, with most being done at Leeds Memorial Park and one at the Red Barn.

Meetings are held on the first and third Mondays of every month. Agenda packets can be seen online at the City of Leeds website.

Birmingham PD releases video of officerinvolved shooting

By Erica Thomas, managing editor

BIRMINGHAM — The Birmingham Police chief held a press conference on Tuesday, May 4, 2021, concerning an officer-involved shooting that happened on April 4, 2021.

Chief Patrick Smith said since he took the job as chief in Birmingham, he made it a priority to be transparent.

Smith showed three videos of the shooting. One was from a Ring camera in the neighborhood and the other two were from body-worn cameras of officers responding to the scene.

“Before I go into the video, I first want to extend my condolences to the Ray family,” Smith said. “I know that this is a critical incident, a significant, emotional event for them and their family and we all extend our deepest condolences. But I think it’s important for the greater good of the community that we hear and see what happened.”

The incident happened on Sunday, April 4, 2021, around 10:50 p.m. An officer was responding to a domestic disturbance inside a vehicle that was traveling in North Birmingham.

Officers located the vehicle in the 300 block of 9th Avenue West and tried to conduct a traffic stop. After refusing to stop, the driver crashed into a fence in the 200 block of 9th Avenue West. Police said the driver exited the vehicle and confronted officers by firing a single shot.

In the first video shown Tuesday, you can see the pursuit with officers. You can also hear several gunshots.

“That one first round, we determined, came from that handgun that Mr. Ray had,” said Smith.

The officers retired fire, and you can hear several gunshots after the initial shot.

The man, later identified as Desmon Montez Ray, 28, of Birmingham, was taken UAB Hospital where he died.

In the second video, you can see one officer running towards the suspect and yelling, “shots fired!” You

also see the suspect on the ground, bleeding. A handgun was recovered from the scene. You can see the gun in the second body camera video that Smith provided Tuesday.

“The driver of the vehicle crashed the vehicle into the suspect and this is where the suspect took off,” said Smith.

During the encounter, the officer told the suspect not to reach for the gun. Smith said there was a delay in medical care because the suspect continued to move around and at one point raised his hand.

“As you noticed in the video, he kept moving around and moving around,” said Smith. “The officers would not approach themselves because one: they could not see

the handgun, two: they didn’t know if they were being baited into a circumstance where other rounds would be fired, and three: they wanted to be sure that somebody else had eyes on the other side so that they were extremely clear that that gun was not being touched or in arm’s reach to whereas he was going to take another shot at them.”

There was also a woman inside of the car that officers had to check on during the or-

deal. As soon as the suspect was secured, medics were called to the scene.

The State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) is investigating the shooting.

Smith said he released the video Tuesday and held the press conference because of false information that has been circulating in the community.

“As Chief of Police, I felt that it was extremely clear that we put out the most factual information that we could possibly put out,” Smith said.

Smith added that the goal of the police department is the preservation of life.

You can watch all three videos in this story on www.

TrussvilleTribune.com.

Name: Gender: DOB: Height: Hair:

From The Tribune staff reports

BIRMINGHAM — Crime Stoppers of Metro Alabama is asking the public for assistance locating the

WATERS, HUNTER EPPS Race: Male Age: 06/29/1990 Weight: 5ft11in Eyes: Short Brown

Caucasian 30 175 Brown

following person. If you have information, call Crime Stoppers at (205) 254-7777. You will remain anonymous and could be eligible for a cash reward.

Hunter Epps Waters is wanted in JEFFERSON COUNTY on a felony warrant

charging him with Aggravated Stalking 2nd Degree.

Wanted as of 04/27/2021 Last Known Address: 300 BLOCK OF LAKE STREET, TRUSSVILLE, AL 35173 Wanted By: BHAM CT DIV, TRUSSVILLE PD

injuries. The cause of the fire has not been determined.

This is a breaking news story and will be updated as more information becomes available.

Deputies with the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office were on the scene blocking the entrace to the complex.

Anyone in the area is urged to use caution.

Fire

From front page

From The Tribune staff reports

CENTER POINT — Center Point Fire and Rescue responded to an apartment fire on Tuesday, May 4, 2021.

Multiple units were damage.

According to Chief Gene Coleman, the blaze was reported at Woodside Apartments in Center Point.

Coleman said four apartment units were involved and that there were no reported

Lottery, casino bill faces hearing, vote at session end

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) — A lottery and casino bill is getting a public hearing in the Alabama Legislature and could be decided in the final two days of the legislative session.

The House Economic Development and Tourism Committee has scheduled a public hearing on the bill for 11 a.m.

Tuesday.

The Alabama Senate last month voted 23-9 for the proposed constitutional amend-

ment to establish a state lottery and allow nine casino sites in the state. However, the measure is facing a tough vote and a ticking legislative clock in the House of Representatives.

Lawmakers have two meeting days remaining after Tuesday.

Casinos would be located in Jefferson, Mobile, Macon, Greene, Houston and either Jackson or DeKalb counties as well at the three sites

owned by the Poarch Band of Creek Indians.

If approved by lawmakers in both chambers, the proposal would then go before voters.

Ivey says Alabama’s remaining health orders will expire on May 31 From The Tribune staff reports

MONTGOMERY — Governor Kay Ivey on Monday announced that Alabama’s public health order related to the COVID-19 pandemic will end on May 31, 2021 and the state of emergency will end on July 6, 2021.

“For over a year now, Alabamians, like people around the glove, have made sacrifices and adjusted to a temporary ‘new normal,’ said Ivey.

“We have learned much since last year, and this is absolutely now a managed pandemic.

Our infection rates and hospi-

talizations are in better shape, and over 1.5 million Alabamians have had at least one shot of the COVID-19 vaccine.

“Alabamians have consistently stepped up to the plate over the course of this pandemic, and I know they will continue to do so,” she continued. “I am pleased that we have shown the rest of the country that we are gritty and determined. We are signaling loud and clear that Alabama is open, and we are moving forward.”

Birmingham PD offering ‘no questions asked’ gun buyback event From The Tribune staff reports

BIRMINGHAM — In an effort to fight against gun violence occurring in the city, the Birmingham Police Department will be holding a “no questions asked” gun buyback event this Saturday.

The department, according to an announcement on Monday, is partnering with Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Incorporated to host the Spring Gun Buyback, which will be held on Saturday, May 8, 2021 at First Ebenezer Baptist Church Fellowship House

in Birmingham.

Guns will be collected from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. During this event there will be “NO QUESTIONS ASKED,” according to BPD. Anyone turning in a firearm will not be questioned or documented. The weapons will be turned in and secured by the department’s rang staff to assure safety.

Community members turning over guns will be awarded a Walmart gift card for taking an initiative to combat gun violence. Gift cards will be provided on a scale based on the type of firearm turned in.

First Ebenezer Baptist Church Fellowship House is located at 420 Graymont Avenue North in Birmingham.

The Trussville Tribune

Page 10

May 5 - 11, 2021

FOOD SAFETY: Latest Jefferson County restaurant scores COSTAS FAMOUS BARBEQUE 215 LAKESHORE PKWY HOMEWOOD 35209 Smoke Free: Y Date: 04/26/21 CHICK-FIL-A BROOKWOOD 746 22235 98 BROOKWOOD VLG HOMEWOOD 35209 Smoke Free: Y Date: 04/26/21 PUBLIX #165 PRODUCE 411 GREEN 14249 98 SPRINGS HWY HOMEWOOD 35209 Smoke Free: Y Date: 04/26/21 THE WESTIN – BIRMINGHAM LOBBY BAR 2101 RICHARD ARRINGTON JR. 20302 95 BLVD N BIRMINGHAM 35203 Smoke Free: Y Date: 04/23/21 STARBUCKS COFFEE 279 LAKE22487 95 SHORE PKWY BIRMINGHAM 35209 Smoke Free: Y Date: 04/23/21 METROPOLITAN DAY SCHOOL 2817 20694 97 LOMB AVE BIRMINGHAM 35208 Smoke Free: Y Date: 04/23/21 EINSTEIN BROTHERS BAGELS @ DAVIS LIBRARY-SAMFORD 309 RI21301 99 LEY RD BIRMINGHAM 35229 Smoke Free: Y Date: 04/23/21 GRILL / DELI @ SAMFORD FOOD COURT 800 LAKESHORE 21133 95 DR HOMEWOOD 35229 Smoke Free: Y Date: 04/23/21 MOES SOUTHWEST @ SAMFORD FOOD COURT (SODEXO) 800 LAKE24761 100 SHORE DR HOMEWOOD 35229 Smoke Free: Y Date: 04/23/21 TOSTADAS 1831 28TH AVE 24796 95 S HOMEWOOD 35209 Smoke Free: Y Date: 04/23/21 HISSHO SUSHI – SAMFORD UNIVERSITY 800 LAKESHORE DR 22819 98 BIRMINGHAM 35229 Smoke Free: Y Date: 04/23/21 SMOOTHIE KING #1360707 RICHARD ARRINGTON JR BLVD S 22787 97 BIRMINGHAM 35233 Smoke Free: Y Date: 04/23/21 THE SEAFOOD KING 180 STATE 24554 98 FARM PKWY HOMEWOOD 35209 Smoke Free: Y Date: 04/22/21 YOUR PIE 2311 RICHARD AR25127 94 RINGTON JR BLVD BIRMINGHAM 35203 Smoke Free: Y Date: 04/22/21 JACK RABBIT CAR WASH/FOOD 4424 94 MART 2614 18TH PL S HOMEWOOD 35209 Smoke Free: Y Date: 04/22/21 HOOVER HIGH SCHOOL (SOCCER CONCESSION) 1000 BUCCA19911 99 NEER DR HOOVER 35244 Smoke Free: Y Date: 04/22/21 19643

From The Tribune staff reports

The Jefferson County Department of Health regularly inspects establishments in Jefferson County where food is prepared or sold for human consumption. Two Type of inspections, scored and alternative (non-scored), are performed throughout the year.

The following is a list of the most recent scored inspections: Permit

23053 25024

25194

21017 10084 11319 26640 25164 19172 13016

Score

Name

PAPER DOLLS 2320 1ST AVE N BIRMINGHAM 35203 Smoke Free: Y Date: 04/27/21 LE FRESCA 2218 2ND AVE N 95 BIRMINGHAM 35203 Smoke Free: Y Date: 04/27/21 DUNKIN DONUTS RESTAURANT # 359177300 COMMONS 98 DR BIRMINGHAM 35209 Smoke Free: Y Date: 04/27/21 YO MAMAS 2328 2ND AVE N 98 BIRMINGHAM 35203 Smoke Free: Y Date: 04/27/21 TACO CASA 125 WILDWOOD 99 PKWY HOMEWOOD 35209 Smoke Free: Y Date: 04/26/21 ARBYS #72373775 LOR95 NA RD HOOVER 35244 Smoke Free: Y Date: 04/26/21 SUBWAY 2105 RICHARD AR95 RINGTON JR. BLVD N BIRMINGHAM 35203 Smoke Free: Y Date: 04/26/21 A1 FOOD MART 2216 24TH ST 96 N BIRMINGHAM 35234 Smoke Free: Y Date: 04/26/21 MEXICO LINDO 350 HOLLYWOOD 96 BLVD HOMEWOOD 35209 Smoke Free: Y Date: 04/26/21 THE PITA CAFE – BNTI 2801 HWY 100 150 PKWY HOOVER 35244 Smoke Free: Y Date: 04/26/21 95

96

HOOVER HIGH SOFTBALL CONCESSIO 1000 BUCCANEER DR HOOVER 35244 Smoke Free: Y Date: 04/22/21 LOCAL 391006 OXMOOR RD 23013 99 HOMEWOOD 35209 Smoke Free: Y Date: 04/21/21 URBAN COOKHOUSE – HOMEWOOD 1920 29TH AVE S BIR22858 94 MINGHAM 35209 Smoke Free: Y Date: 04/21/21 LITTLE DONKEY 2821 CENTRAL 19693 92 AVE HOMEWOOD 35209 Smoke Free: Y Date: 04/21/21 CRACKER BARREL #3684710 NOR9744 91 RELL DR TRUSSVILLE 35173 Smoke Free: Y Date: 04/20/21 SALEMS DINER 2913 18TH ST 16504 100 S HOMEWOOD 35209 Smoke Free: Y Date: 04/20/21 NEW YORK PIZZA 1010 OXMOOR 13664 96 RD HOMEWOOD 35209 Smoke Free: Y Date: 04/20/21 SAMS CLUB #8247 MEAT & ROTISSERIE 201 LAKESHORE 10100 99 PKWY HOMEWOOD 35209 Smoke Free: Y Date: 04/20/21 FUJISAN SUSHI 201 LAKESHORE 26855 99 PKWY HOMEWOOD 35209 Smoke Free: Y Date: 04/20/21 K & A LLC – NORWOOD SHELL 3020 17021 96 12TH AVE N BIRMINGHAM 35234 Smoke Free: Y Date: 04/19/21 RACEWAY #68161823 19TH 18830 89 AVE BESSEMER 35020 Smoke Free: Y Date: 04/19/21 OKINAWA JAPANESE RESTAURANT 148 WILDWOOD PKWY 21441 97 HOMEWOOD 35209 Smoke Free: Y Date: 04/19/21 F & K FOOD MART (NORTH BIRMINGHAM CHEVRON) 2435 CAR21643 96 RAWAY BLVD BIRMINGHAM 35234 Smoke Free: Y Date: 04/16/21 MANIS STOP 1200 25TH ST N 14634 98 BIRMINGHAM 35234 Smoke Free: Y Date: 04/16/21 FINLEY MARATHON 1900 FINLEY 19561 98 BLVD BIRMINGHAM 35234 Smoke Free: Y Date: 04/16/21 MARGARETS BAKERY 1421 FOR20066 97 ESTDALE BLVD BIRMINGHAM 35214 Smoke Free: Y Date: 04/15/21 HIGH SPEED MARKET 101 JOHN 25108 96 CARROLL DR BIRMINGHAM 35209 Smoke Free: Y Date: 04/15/21 10416

99

The Trussville Tribune

May 5 - 11, 2021

Calendar

National Day of Prayer Gathering May 6 @ 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm

We want to invite you to a time of prayer for our nation and the Church on the National Day of Prayer, May 6 at 6:30 PM on the Trussville Mall.

Invite your friends, let your pastor know, and bring your family – we want to come together from across congregations and neighborhoods to pray and seek God’s face. Come join us! https://www.nationaldayofprayer.org/ Venue Trussville Mall 225 Parkway Drive Trussville, 35173 Ross Medical Education Virtual Open House May 7 @ 12:00 pm 5:00 pm Free

Come chat virtually with an advisor. Get all the information you need to jump start your new career.

Fully online degrees available from wherever you are! Enroll now to start your exciting new career in fields such as medical or dental assisting, nursing, veterinary technician, and many more.

See our website for details and instructions.

Positive Choices Benefit 5k and Fun Run May 15 @ 8:30 am 11:30 am $25

Calvary Chapel is hosting a benefit 5k and Fun Run for the Positive Choices Pregnancy Center! The event will be at Cosby Lake, May 15; check-in beginning at 8:30 AM, the 5K will start at 9 and the Fun Run at 10. The cost to enter is $25, and all entry fees go directly to support the pregnancy center in their life-changing work with women in unplanned pregnancies and their partners. There will be games and snacks as well as a short race for the kids, bring the whole family!

Sign up for the 5k or Fun Run at the ticket link: https://runsignup.com/ Race/AL/Pinson/PositiveChoices Cash signups also welcome on the day. We can’t wait to see you!

Venue Cosby Lake Park Dont Rock the JukeBox! May 15 @ 5:30 pm 9:30 pm

You don’t want to miss out on Birmingham’s premier 90’s country cover band! Join us for a Honky-tonkin’ time!

Don’t Rock the Jukebox will be playing all your favorites from Garth Brooks, Alan Jackson, Travis Tritt, Reba, Joe Diffie, John Michael Montgomery, Venue Ferus Artisan Ales Mega Yard Sale in Trussville May 15 @ 7:00 am 1:30 pm

Now signing up vendors for the Mega Yard Sale!

On Saturday, May 15th, the St. Vincent de Paul Society is sponsoring a community yard sale in Trussville. For $20 you can rent two parking spaces to sell your treasures. You keep all that you sell. We’ll do all the advertising and organizing. Last year we had an incredible turnout.

The customers said that when they yard sale, they spend more time driving than actually shopping, and they really liked coming to one place and shopping 50 yard sales.

For an application or more information, please go to https://hiopstvincent.wixsite.com/stvdp or email me at holyinfantyardsale@gmail.com Thanks!

Spots are still available!

We’ve added two food trucks. This is more than a yard sale, taking place at: Holy Infant of Prague Catholic Church 8090 Gadsden Highway Trussville In addition to yard sell-

ers, this is a great opportunity for crafters, people selling jewelry, small or home based companies seeking to promote their goods and services, anyone who wants to get in front of hundreds of people.

Venue Holy Infant of Prague Catholic Church 8090 Gadsden Hwy Trussville, AL 35173 United States Leeds 26th Annual Creek Bank Festival May 15 @ 10:00 am 4:00 pm Free

The Leeds Area Chamber of Commerce is busy planning and organizing the 26th Annual Creek Bank Festival scheduled for Saturday, May 15th from 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. at Leeds Memorial Park on Highway 119.

This is a free community event with free parking.

Award-Winning Singer/ Songwriter, Michael Jacobs and Birmingham Based Singer/Songwriter, Erica Ryleigh, are among the stage performers. Jacobs creates a compelling blend of roots rock and folk, and his songs reflect a deep passion to do good. His professional music career began as a songwriter and guitarist in Nashville. Ryleigh is best known for her country sound with a hint of “indy” twang. With musical and lyrical influences like Dolly Parton, Miranda Lambert, and Kacey Musgraves, not only does her upbeat attitude and grit make Ryleigh easy to remember, but her story telling throughout her songwriting is hard to be forgotten.

Lots of children’s activities are planned including hula hoop contests, balloon artist, face painting and more. Arts, crafts, food trucks and other vendors from all over the southeast will abound. A new addition this year will be a Bake My Day Bake Off Contest for those who love to show off their favorite desserts.

For dog lovers, the Creek Bark Dog Pageant will be back this year to highlight dogs of all shapes and sizes. Dogs must be up to date on vaccines to

Page 11

Classified Call (205) 533-8664

SERVICES ADVERTISE STATEWIDE or by Region in over 100 Newspapers, reaching over 1 million readers each week!

Run your ad in our Classified Network for just $210 per week! Make one call to this newspaper (participating Alascan newspaper) or call 1-800-264-7043 to find out how easy it is to advertise statewide!

ARE YOU BEHIND $10k OR MORE ON YOUR TAXES? Stop wage & bank levies, liens & audits, unfiled tax returns, payroll issues, & resolve tax debt FAST. Call 855-887-9533 (Hours: Mon-Fri 7am-5pm PST).

BATH & SHOWER UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Affordable prices No payments for 18 months!

Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & Military Discounts available. Call: 833-449-1307.

CANADA DISCOUNT PHARMACY. Save up to 80% off prescriptions.

Eliquis, Flomax, Xarelto, Viagra, more! Mention ìNEWS10î to save $10 on first order. Call 855-8996256 (Open M-F).

LONG DISTANCE MOVING: White-Glove Service from America’s Top Movers. Fully insured and bonded. Let us take the stress out

participate.

Festival Booth Space is available for food, crafts and other types of vendors. Electricity is available on a first come-first serve basis and only one vendor is accepted in certain business categories so immediate registration is highly recommended to secure your vendor space. Creek Bank Festival T-Shirts will be available to purchase in a variety of sizes.

In conjunction with the Creek Bank Festival, the 5th Annual Cruising the Creek Car Show is scheduled for the same day from approximately 9:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. This charity event is sponsored by C & C Motor Company to raise money for Leeds Outreach and Backpack Buddies.

Vehicle registrations are currently being accepted and the car show is open to all vehicles, motorcycles & 4WD. Over 300 cars, trucks and specialty vehicles participated in the last show.

Celebrating its 26th year, the 2021 Creek Bank

of your out of state move.

FREE QUOTES! Call: 844513-0651.

INSURANCE ATTENTION MEDICARE Recipients! Open enrollment is upon us! We want to save you money on your medicare supplement plan.

Free quotes from top providers. Excellent coverage.

Call for a no obligation quote to see how much you can save! 1-877-326-0344.

HEALTH/BEAUTY ATTENTION DIABETICS! Save money on your diabetic supplies! Convenient home shipping for monitors, test strips, insulin pumps, catheters and more! To learn more call now 1-855-5049031.

OXYGEN - ANYTIME. Anywhere. No tanks to refill. No deliveries. The AllNew Inogen One G4 is only 2.8 pounds! FAA approved!

FREE info kit: 1-844-3229935.

HELP WANTED-GOVT JOBS AVAILABLE now with Alabama Department of Corrections. Opportunity to earn up to $7500 in bonuses! Competitive benefits package. Get started today!

Visit adocjobs.us.

Festival will provide plenty of fun, food and entertainment for you, your family and friends to enjoy so plan to spend all day so you won’t miss a single exciting moment and help get the word out!

The 2021 Corporate Sponsors include: Presenting Sponsor is the City of Leeds, Corporate Partner: Lehigh Cement Company, Gold Sponsors: Brunson, Barnett & Sherrer, P.C., Hubbell Power Systems, Inc., Revocation Radio, Silver Sponsors: Leeds Water Works, Millennial Bank, Bronze Sponsors: adr Business & Marketing Strategies, AMAC Design Builders, LLC, America’s First Credit Union, BancorpSouth Bank, Guardian Systems, Inc., IKG USA, Inc., M & M Tax Accounting, Power Laser Cut, The Outlet Shops of Grand River and Windstream. Creek Bank event sponsors include our Stage Sponsor – MainStreet Family Care and others coming soon!

For more information

FINANCE Have a LIFE IN$URANCE POLICY you no longer need? It may be worth CA$H! For a FREE NO CO$T appraisal CALL Don (205) 615-0459.

FOR SALE Directv Satellite Service starting at $59.99/month!

1 Year Price Lock! 155+ Channels available. Call Now to get the Most Sports on TV! 888-404-2087.

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

UPDATE YOUR HOME with Beautiful New Blinds & Shades. FREE in-home estimates make it convenient to shop from home. Professional installation. Top quality - Made in the USA. Call for free consultation: 844809-9165. Ask about our specials!

MISCELLANEOUS DONATE YOUR CAR TO KIDS. Your donation helps fund the search for missing children. Accepting Trucks, Motorcycles & RV’s too!

Fast Free Pickup- Running or Not- 24 Hour ResponseMaximum Tax DonationCall (888) 515-3442.

about all of the Creek Bank Festival festivities, events, entertainment and vendor space, please visit www.CreekBankFestival.com or email sandra@leedsareachamber.com. You can also connect with them on social media!

Venue Leeds Memorial Park 801 Helen Street Leeds, AL 35094 United States AJ Beavers and the Band at Ferus May 29 @ 5:30 pm 9:30 pm Free

Local Musicians AJ Beavers, Macey Taylor, Mark Kimbrell, and Michael Shackelford will be taking the stage playing some of your favorite covers. This is a FREE EVENT, ALL AGES! Venue Ferus Artisan Ales

Our attorneys can help you.

Whenever you need legal assistance, turn to our attorneys.

They can assist with situations involving:

•Family law •Personal injury •Estate planning •Contractor fraud •Criminal defense

David R. Blount - Sharon D. Davis - Leslee F. Hughes - A. Scott Hughes

Whether you need a criminal defense attorney or a personal injury attorney, turn to our law firm. Call now for immediate assistance.

7127 GADSDEN HIGHWAY SUITE 207 TRUSSVILLE, AL 35173

205-383-1875 No representation is made that the quality of legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of services performed by other lawyers.

The Trussville Tribune

Page 12

O b i t u a ry

William A. Bazzano january

(age 71)

24, 1950 ~ april 28, 2021

William A. Bazzano, age 71 of Oneonta, AL passed away on April 28, 2021. He attended church at The Church at Bradford Road. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Nancy Bazzano; children, Lisa Fergerson (Alphonso), William “Bubba” Bazzano (Tina) and Renay Musso (Shaun); grandchildren, Jennifer Johnston, Jessica Johnston, Taylor Patterson, Kelsey Hays and Baylee Musso; 6 great grandchildren; siblings, Michael, Edwin, Mary, Bobby, Beth and Janie.

Willie Dean York june

May 5 - 11, 2021

Uel Charles Nummy may

3, 1925 ~ april 24, 2021 (age 95)

Uel Charles Nummy, age 95 of Birmingham, AL passed away on April 24, 2021. He was a Godly man who lived a Christian Life. He loved his family, animals, nature and his country. He served in World War II as a Marine in the Pacific Campaign. He fought in the Battle of Iwo Jima, Saipan and Okinawa. He retired from Birmingham Jefferson County Transit Authority after 30 years of service. He was preceded in death by his wife of 56 years, Vada Holemon Nummy. He was survived by his daughters, Deborah Nummy (John Bailey), Regina Nummy and Peggy Nummy Panos (Danny); grandchildren, Katie Panos Hale (Alex), Sarah Panos Jackson (Bradley) and Danny “Dan” Charles Panos; great grandson, Art David Jackson. The family would like to thank the Veterans Administration, especially Jann Hailey.

9, 1926 ~ may 1, 2021 (age 94)

Joyce Elaine (Burnett) Strader

Willie Dean Buchanan York was the youngest (the baby) of 5 siblings born to the late Eddie Buchanan and Dillie Solley Buchanan in Arab, Alabama.

She grew up going to Gilliam Springs Baptist Church and continued throughout her life to be a member of a Baptist Church. At the time of her death, she was a member of FBC of Pinson and even though she could not attend, she kept up with friends there and watched the service on tv every Sunday.She married the late James L. York in 1946 and they resided in Birmingham. They had 2 children, Rebecca Dean York, and Rhonda Gail York. Willie Dean was Mother, Aunt Willie and Nanny. Every member of the family adored her, and this is an unbelievable loss. However, as she told us, “I will just give it to God,” she was ready to go home. She had a rich and rewarding life.

Survived by: Daughter, Rhonda York (Chuck) Carroll 4 grandsons, Allen (Shelly) Mize, Andy (Erin) Mize , Chase (Emily) Carroll and Tyler Carroll.

6 Great Grandchildren: Carson (Ivy) Mize, Macy Mize, Cameron Mize, Taylor Mize, Bo Mize and Stone Carroll. Family meant everything to her and she meant everything to our family.

She was preceded in death by: Her husband, James L. York, her parents, her brother Buehl Buchanan, brother Dewitt Buchanan, brother Denton Buchanan, sister Nanny Lou Buchanan Ogletree , daughter Rebecca Mize and son-in-law James Mize. She was a woman of style, strength, resiliency and independence.

She will live on in our hearts forever. Friday May 7th the Service will be at Jefferson Memorial at 1591 Gadsden Highway, Bham, Alabama. 11:00 visitation 12:00 Funeral Service.

Sharon Lee Rayborn september

(age 78)

8, 1942 ~ april 28, 2021

Sharon Lee Rayborn, age 78, of Moody went home to be with the Lord on April 28, 2021, surrounded by family. Originially from Kentucky, Sharon was proud of being a military wife, traveling the world, making lifelong friends, and being called honey, mom, mema, grandma, and oma. She had a zest for life that was contagious and was known for being an excellent cook. Sharon, a woman of faith, loved her family and friends dearly and celebrated 51 years of marriage with her beloved husband, CW4 (Retired) Robert Everett Rayborn (Bob). She was preceded in death by her husband and her son, Robert Everett Rayborn, Jr. (Rob). She is survived by her children, Stephanie Smith (Ken), Ronald Rayborn (Barbie); daughter-in-law Amy Rayborn; grandchildren, Autumn Hope (Brandon), Robert Rayborn III (Robby), Adrienne Rayborn, Christopher Rayborn (Haley), Ryan Waters, Stephen Waters (Kimberly), Chrissy Carson, Sarah Carson, Danyal Rayborn, Kelsie Gibson, Meredith Rader (Dillon), Owen Gibson, Emily Blackwood (Dalton); and 9 great-grandchildren (Rayleigh, Rhylon, Reeselyn, Rheed, Addie, Emmett, Wyatt, Agnes, Olivia) with one grandson (Jude) on the way.

She was also a loving aunt to numerous nieces and nephews. Family will receive friends on May 6, 2021 from 10:00 am-11:00 am at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home in Trussville with the Celebration of Life beginning at 11:00 am. A private burial service for family will be held afterward at the Alabama National Cemetery.

Mother’s Day Celebration

May 6th - 8th, 2021 From 8:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. In honor of Mother’s Day we will be giving out carnations for all mothers from Thursday, May 6th to Saturday, May 8th. Our caring staff will be in the cemetery each day assisting with vases, cemetery issues, and providing information about memorial markers and services. Please join us in this celebration and tribute to our wonderful moms!

may

2, 1945 ~ april 30, 2021 (age 75)

Mrs. Joyce Elaine Strader age 75 passed away Friday, April 30, 2021.

She was born May 2, 1945 in Tennessee to Emma Lynch Burnett and Benjamin Burnett. Joyce is survived by her beloved husband, Charles Strader, her cherished children, a daughter, Felicia Strader and two sons, James “Dan” Strader and Jeff and his wife, Amy Strader; two loving grandchildren, Chandler and Cameron Strader. She is also survived by her siblings, Hazel and Julian “Mitch” Mitchhum, Ernest and Louise Burnett, Jerry Burnett, Linda Harris, Tony Burnett and Theresa, Shirley Davis, Don Burnett and Donna. She is preceded in death by her mother, Emma Frances Burnett, her father, Benjamin Feddie Burnett and a sister, Kay Bryson. Joyce was a loving Wife, Mother, Mamaw, Sister and Friend to everyone. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Heart and Kidney Foundation

Maureen M. (Morris) Stephens october

23, 1944 ~ april 28, 2021 (age 76)

Maureen M. Stephens, age 76, of Pell City, AL passed away on April 28, 2021.

A grandmother who loved unconditionally, teaches, motivates, encourages, gives warm hugs, tells great stories and bakes amazing sweet potato pies. She was a member of Concord Methodist Church. She was a member of the Red Hat Society and the Talladega Homemaker’s Club. She was an avid Alabama Fan. She is survived by her husband of 58 years, Billy R. Stephens “B.R.”; children, Tonya Needham (Mike) and Patrick Stephens (Wendy); grandchildren, J.C. Needham, Madison Payne (Dylan), Joseph Needham, Mason Stephens and Maegan Stephens; great granddaughter, Ellis Kate Stephens. Host of nieces, nephews and friends.

Audrey L. (Harris) Richards december

(age 78)

21, 1942 ~ april 27, 2021

Audrey Louise Richards, age 78, passed from this life to eternal life on April 27, 2021 at Acsension St. Vincent’s Blount in Oneonta, Alabama. Audrey Louise Richards was born on December 21, 1942 in Birmingham, Alabama. She was a devoted wife to Bill and loving mother to her children. She loved to fish and spend time with family.

Children were her joy in life. Audrey is survived by her husband of 60 years, William Richards and three sons and daughter-in-laws, James and Paula Richards, Gerald and Sheila Richards and Donald and Tanya Richards. Audrey had nine grandchildren and three great grandchildren. Audrey was preceded in death by her parents, Dewey “Sid” and Emma Harris, brothers, Dewey and Johnny, sisters, Mary Emma and Faye.

She is survived by her brother Howard and sister Martha.

Eileen Helen Henderson september

25, 1944 ~ april 27, 2021 (age 76)

Eileen Helen Henderson age 76 of Tarrant, passed away peacefully at her home on April 27, 2021. She was the wife of Jerry E. Henderson. They shared 57 years of marriage together. Eileen was born on the island of Kauai on September 25, 1944 and was the daughter of Charles and Helen Martin. Eileen had 3 brothers and 2 sisters: Chuck (Sue), Donald, Mark (Joannie) Linda, and Debbie. She was a graduate of Theodore High School in Mobile, Alabama. Eileen is survived by her husband Jerry. She married Jerry Henderson on April 25th 1964 and had 3 loving children: Dana (Michael) Allen (Kristie) Scott (Stephanie) She was employed at Simon Williamson Clinic for over 20 years, where she worked until her retirement. She was a devout Catholic and was a member of St. Bernard’s Catholic Church in Inglenook and then became a member of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Huffman.

She was an avid member of Tarrant Quarterback Club and The Ladies Auxiliary of the American Legion Post 113. She will be remembered by many of the friends she made while being apart of those communities. Her hobbies were sewing and knitting and spending time with her family. She loved watching black and white movies and could watch the Hallmark Channel 24 hours a day. Her most favorite thing to do was to teach her grandchildren how to pray in Portuguese and how to pray the Rosary. Her love for Jesus Christ was shown everyday by the way she showed loved to her family and friends. She was a loving Nana to her Grandchildren: Patrick (Heather), Micheal (Deanna), Brody, Blake, Zac, and Lauren (Jonathon). She also was a loving Mimi to her Great Grandchildren: Jensen, Ayden, and Hayleigh. She leaves behind a host of brother in laws and sister in laws and nieces and nephews. Eileen Henderson will be truly be missed. Our loss is Heaven’s gain. Her life will forever be cherished in the lives of her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

Amanda Maria (Carden) Godwin december

(age 39)

8, 1981 ~ april 24, 2021

Amanda Maria Godwin was called home on April 24th, 2021. She left behind a multitude of family, friends she considered family, and her fiance Marty Mann.

Amanda was a selfless and nurturing lady. Her love was visible to everyone around her due to her amazing ability to make everyone feel like they were everything that mattered in that moment. She had a special place in her heart for each of her nieces and nephews. Not only was she a great landscaper, cook, and an ear to listen. For the children, she was a movie watching partner, a fellow animal lover, a wrestler, a gamer, a tickle monster, a comedian, and a dancing sensation.

This beautiful soul will be put to rest Thursday May 6th at Jefferson Memorial Gardens. Visitation will begin at 1:00. Services at 2:00

Jefferson Memorial FUNERAL HOME AND GARDENS

205-322-0543

1591 Gadsden Hwy

Birmingham, AL 35235

www.jmgardens.com

If you have any questions about funeral planning please email: askeddie@jmgardens.com

JeffMem.MothersDay’21 5.3”x10”

Martha Rickey Sly may

2, 2021 (age 93)

Martha Richey Sly, age 93, of Midfield, AL was greeted by her loved ones beyond the sky on May 2, 2021.

Martha was a native of Marshall County, AL. She married Joe V. Sly in 1952. Martha was an outspoken woman with a strong will, vivacious smile, and bright blue eyes and all that knew her could instantly recognize her laugh. She was preceded in death by her husband of 50 years, Joe V. Sly; her two sons, Steve and David Sly; her parents Ernest and Novella Richey, and her four brothers, James, Lephon, Sam and Larry Richey. She is survived by her loving daughters, Teresa Morton (Mike) and Marie Sly; her sister, Gaynell Taft and brother, Dennis Richey (Sue); grandchildren, Jason and Brett Morton (Renee), and Cory Sly (Lathia), and three great grandchildren, Scott and Cameron Morton, and Oliver Sly; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family. The family would like to express their gratitude for the love and care of Mrs. Martha at Cherokee County Health and Rehab in Centre, AL and Comfort Care Hospice of Gadsden, AL. A graveside service will be held on Thursday, May 6th at Valhalla Cemetery at 2:30 p.m.

Page 13

655-2095

sports

Keeping Co Community 1st Always

Hewitt-Trussville baseball vs.

Hoover High School at HewittTrussville. Friday, May 7

Springville softball. Area 13 Tournament at Springville Wednesday, May 5

The Trussville Tribune

Clay-Chalkville softball Area 12 Tournament at Mortimer Jordan Thursday, May 6

No. 1 Hewitt sweeps Grissom to advance into 7A quarters

By Erik Harris, sports editor

TRUSSVILLE — A third game won’t be necessary.

The No. 1-ranked Hewitt-Trussville baseball team opened up its postseason run at home last Friday with a two-game sweep of Grissom.

The Huskies (28-4) followed a 3-2 win in the early session with a 6-3 series clincher in the nightcap to march into the Class 7A quarterfinals.

The Area 6 champions will host Hoover this Friday in the second round after the Bucs swept sixth-ranked Bob Jones last week in the first round. A doubleheader will open the series on Friday starting at 4:30 p.m. An if-needed third game would be played on Saturday at 1 p.m.

“We haven’t played them this year, but this is what you want in the playoffs,” said Hewitt-Trussville pitcher Skylar Jones. “You want to play the best of the best. It makes me want to get after them.”

Game 1: Hewitt-Trussville 3, Grissom 2 After trailing for most of the afternoon, Hewitt rallied in the final two frames to capture the series opener, 3-2.

The game went into the bottom of the seventh even at 2-2 before Brooks McRae

Hewitt-Trussville’s Ethan Duhon listens to coach Jeff Mauldin after reaching third base during a playoff game in Trussville last Friday. Photo by Erik Harris

bunted into an infield throwing error that sent the ball rolling into foul territory down the right-field line, allowing pinch runner Jackson Cole to score the game-winning run from second.

Dylan Overby led off the inning with a line-single into center field and Jackson Ollis bunted into the first error of the inning before McRae got his game-winning bunt down.

“I’m just proud of our team for fighting every at-

bat and every pitch,” said Hewitt-Trussville head coach Jeff Mauldin. “When you get to this point in the season, everybody has earned the right to be here, everybody is good.

Those guys (Grissom) are really, really good. So I was proud of our guys for fighting.”

It was however, the Tigers that claimed a 2-0 advantage after loading the bases with no outs in the fourth. Charlie Cassingham started the scor-

ing with an RBI single into right and Jack Carson followed with a sacrifice fly into center field.

That two-run lead would hold until the bottom of the sixth when Hewitt-Trussville catcher Matt Miller evened things up at 2-all with a twoout, two-run single into left field. Miller first chased Tigers’ starter John Stogner with a long shot to left that carried foul. He then welcomed relief pitcher Rynzo

Crutcher to the game with his game-tying single.

Stoger tossed five scoreless innings for Grissom and lasted 5 ⅔ innings with six strikeouts and one walk. On the other side, Huskies righty Riley Quick fired a complete game with nine strikeouts, two walks and six hits allowed. Quick held the Tigers scoreless in all but the fourth inning when the visitors jumped out to a 2-0 advantage.

The big right-hander worked out of a third-inning jam when Grissom put runners on second and third with no outs. Quick escaped by punching out the next three batters to hold a scoreless tie.

“You can’t say enough about our two guys that pitched,” said Mauldin.

“They pitched with a lot of heart tonight.”

Hewitt-Trussville managed four hits in the afternoon session thanks to singles from Miller, Overby, Ethan Duhon and Jackson Holland.

Game 2: Hewitt-Trussville 6, Grissom 3 Offense came a little easier in the nightcap, but Hewitt-Trussville still needed three runs in the eighth to complete the Friday-night sweep at Phil English Field.

See PREP PLAYOFFS, Page 14

May 5 - 11, 2021

Clay-Chalkville teammates head to NFL

By Erik Harris, sports editor

PINSON — Their NFL dreams have come true.

Former Clay-Chalkville and Michigan pass-catcher Nico Collins was selected 89th overall by the Houston Texans last Friday in the 2021 NFL Draft. And his high school teammate TJ Simmons later signed a free agent deal with the Super Bowl champion Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

See NFL ROOKIES, Page 14

Hewitt mountain bikers win state championship

By Erik Harris, sports editor

MCCALLA — The Hewitt-Trussville mountain bike racing team capped off a stellar 2021 season last Saturday with an Alabama Interscholastic Cycling League championship.

The Huskies put a bow on things last weekend with a first-place finish in the state championship race at Tannehill State Park in McCalla.

See TRAIL RIDE, Page 14

Keystone Financial Group focuses on helping you maximize your future financial standing. Most of all, we ensure you a level of customer service and interaction that is genuinely personable.

HOURS OF OPERATION Monday - Friday 7am-5pm Saturday 9am-2pm

Brandon T. Guttery Financial Professional

High Quality Digital Printing Promotional Items Letterhead, Envelopes, Invoices

205-602-3463 205-419-5082

sales@weldonprinting.com

3644 Vann Road • Suite 116

ALL POSITIONS! NO EXPERIENCE NEEDED! WILL TRAIN - FLEXIBLE HOURS - GOOD PAY Apply in person OR online at www.complete-cleaners.com/employment

Central Alabama's ONLY Licensed GreenEarth Cleaner

The Trussville Tribune

Page 14

Hewitt-Trussville boys, girls place 2nd at state championships

By Erik Harris, sports editor

GULF SHORES — The top track and field athletes in Alabama gathered in Gulf Shores last weekend for the 2021 AHSAA State Track and Field Championships in Mickey Miller Blackwell Stadium.

The competition started on Thursday and wrapped up last Saturday, with several local student-athletes finishing atop their respective events. It was a particularly strong showing from Class 7A Hewitt-Trussville, which captured runner-up trophies in both the girls and boys meets.

The Husky girls were led by individual champions Maci Mills (800-meter dash), Lea Townsend (shot put) and Kelsey Martin (long jump).

Martin also took second-place finishes in the 400-meter dash and triple jump events to go with a third-place finish in the 200-meter dash.

Townsend paired her gold medal with a third-place finish in the discus, while Mills added fifth-place outings in the 1600-meter dash and 400-me-

ter dash.

The Hewitt girls were also aided by Haleigh Chambers, who placed third in the javelin.

Tori Mack and Sydney White chipped in with fourth-place results in the 100-meter hurdles and 300-meter hurdles, respectively.

Class 7A girls team scores 1. Hoover 107.5 2. Hewitt-Trussville 102 3. Vestavia Hills 62 4. Huntsville 58 5. Auburn 52.5 In Class 7A boys action, Hewitt worked a second-place finish behind a strong effort from Alabama signee Julian Collins, who placed first in the long jump, third in the triple jump and 100-meter dash and fifth in the 200-meter dash.

Jacob Copham came through with fourth-place efforts in both the discus and shot put events. Tanveer Raza came home with a second-place finish in the shot put and a fifthplace finish in the discus. Aaron Himes chipped in with a sixthplace finish in the 800-meter run and eighth-place work in both the 1600-meter run and the 3200-meter run.

NFL Rookies

major contributor on the team’s 2014 state championship run.

He went for 1,103 yards receiving yards and 16 scores as a junior at Clay-Chalkville and added 865 yards and nine TDs as a senior.

Simmons, a 6-foot-2 wideout, originally signed with Alabama, but transferred to West Virginia following his only sea-

son in Tuscaloosa. He is set to earn $660,000 in his first season with the Bucs.

Simmons led the Cougars to an undefeated state title run as a junior in 2014 and went on to score 22 touchdowns for the team in 2015 before signing with Alabama’s 2016 recruiting class. He played one season in Tuscaloosa, mostly logging special teams duty, before transferring to West Virginia.

He played in 30 career games for the Mountaineers, and put up 401 yards receiving to go with a team-leading four touchdowns as a senior last fall. Simmons was named Big 12 Offensive Player of the Week after pulling down four receptions for 90 yards and two scores against TCU.

strikeouts, two walks and five hits allowed in eight innings pitched.

“The best inning of his night was the eighth inning,” said Mauldin. “He was stong and that’s kudos for him for how he prepares as far as lifting weights and our running program and how he prepares himself to be able to do something like that tonight.”

The Huskies wasted no time giving Jones a lead, as Holland slapped home Burrell, who started the first with a single up the middle. Hewitt extended the early lead to 2-0 in the top of the second when Grissom, once again, struggled to defend a bunt. The ball was thrown out of play on the delivery to first, allowing a second run in.

Grissom put together a twoout rally in the bottom of the second to lock things back up at 2-2. Christian Sutphin started the rally with a run-scoring single to the right side and later scored the equalizer when a throw from right field snuck by Miller at the plate.

The Huskies took advantage of two straight hit-bypitches in the top of the fifth, as Kizer touched an RBI fielder’s choice to second for a 3-2 lead.

But Grissom answered again, this time on an RBI groundout to shortstop in the sixth.

“I don’t think we played our absolute best tonight, but that’s what happens when you play another team that kind of puts you in situations where you don’t play your best,” said Mauldin.

From page 13

Collins, a 6-foot-4 receiver, opted out of the 2020 season after reeling in 37 receptions for 729 yards (19.7 yards per catch) and seven touchdowns as a junior in 2019.

Houston drafted the CCHS product with the 25th pick of the third round on Friday night.

The Texans also grabbed Stanford quarterback Davis Mills in the third round, making Collins the organization’s second overall pick of the draft.

Collins signed with the Wolverines as a four-star prospect out of Clay-Chalkville in 2017. He was a three-time All-Metro selection as a standout with the Cougars and was a

Prep Playoffs From page 13

Game 2 went into extras tied at 3-3, and that’s when the Huskies came alive.

Jackson Holland barreled up the go-ahead sacrifice fly, which floated into center field, allowing Trey Burrell to tag up from third and beat the throw home for a 4-3 cushion. Miller extended the inning with a little insurance in the form of an RBI line into right, which was followed by a run-scoring single off the bat of McRae. The Huskies went into the bottom-half with a three-run cushion and senior starter Skylar Jones closed the door. The righty capped off a stellar night by striking out the side to bag a complete game effort with 11

Also for the Huskies, Nathan Knox finished fifth in the 3200-meter run and sixth in the 1600-meter run, Ethan Womack finished sixth in the 110-meter hurdles, Will Diggs finished fourth in the javelin, Bobby Stanbery placed fifth in the 300-meter hurdle and Daniel James placed fifth in the pole vault.

Class 7A boys team scores 1. Vestavia Hills 104.5 2. Hewitt-Trussville 91 3. Auburn 74 4. Hoover 58 5. Oak Mountain 44 In other action, the Center Point girls finished at No. 5 in the Class 5A meet, while the Clay-Chalkville boys finished fifth in Class 6A. The Cougars took gold in the 4X100-meter relay with a time of 42.24, whild junior Marquarius White claimed second in both the 100-meter dash and 200-meter dash.

Kiyla Calvin led the Eagles with an individual championship in the 300-meter hurdle and a runner-up finish in the 100-meter hurdle to go with a first-place finish from Ambria James in the shot put.

Former Clay-Chalkville and Michigan receiver Nico Collins. Photo from Michigan Football Twitter account

Full Traditional Funeral Service Including Casket

$3,999

May 5 - 11, 2021

Springville ends season in 2nd round, Gardendale sweeps

By Erik Harris, sports editor

SPRINGVILLE — Baseball season has come to an end in Springville following a pair of losses to Gardendale last Friday in the second round of the Class 6A playoffs.

A balanced offense spurred Gardendale to a 6-3 win in Friday’s opener, as the Rockets scattered 13 hits and scored in five of the seven innings played. All nine players in the Gardendale order delivered at least one hit, including a three-hit game from Ty McGraw and two-hit games

who combined for all six of the team’s hits.

Game 2: Gardendale 6, Springville 2 Gardendale’s bats were a little quieter in the nightcap, dropping from 13 hits in the opener to six hits in the finale, but the run total remained the same as the Rockets came

Springville’s Jake Ballard (17) gets caught in a rundown during a second-round playoff series on April 30, 2021. Photo by Vickie Unlap

The Rockets swept the road set 6-3 and 6-2 to advance into the state quarterfinals for the second straight season (no postseason play was allowed in 2020 due to COVID-19).

Gardendale will host No. 7 Chelsea this Friday in the third round.

Springville (22-13) ends its first season in Class 6A as the Area 13 runner-up. The Tigers also notched a firstround sweep at Fort Payne in the first round and were winners in nine of their last 11 games going into the Gardendale series.

Game 1: Gardendale 6, Springville 3

from Presley Walker and Juan Morales.

It was Springville that jumped out front 2-1 in the third thanks to a leadoff walk and back-to-back hits from Parker Wells and Ethan Davis. Wells tripled into right field for the team’s first RBI of the series and Davis followed with a run-scoring single back up the middle.

However, Gardendale rebounded with two more runs in the top of the fourth and tacked on single runs in the fifth, sixth and seventh to claim a 1-0 series lead.

The Tigers were led by the top three in their order (Wells, Davis and Jake Goolsby),

through with a 6-2 victory.

Springville crossed both of its runs in the top of the first with Goolsby and Caleb McCarty going back-to-back with RBIs, but that would be all the Tigers could manage against Gardendale pitcher Daniel Bradley, who struck out six and surrendered five hits in seven innings.

For the Rockets, McGraw and Josh Wilson both finished with two hits to go with one hit and two RBIs from Morales. Gardendale tied the game at 2 in the third and went on to score in each of its next three plate appearances to pull the game out of reach.

Trail Ride From page 13

Official NICA results have not been posted from Saturday, however the team took to Facebook to announce its third state title in six years.

Hewitt-Trussville claimed top finishes in each of this year’s races, sweeping the 2021 series in four appearances. The high school series typically features five races, but was cut by one this year due to storm damage at Oak Mountain State Park, which annually hosts the third race of the season — Rumble on the Ridge.

The Huskies opened up their season on March 7 by edging second-place Hoover 3909-3779 in the Battle at Black Creek. A trio of top-10

Photo from the Hewitt-Trussville MTB Racing Team Facebook page

riders bolstered the win, as Jacob Roper placed fourth, Sam Lovin placed fifth and Grayson Davis finished eighth overall for Hewitt-Trussville.

Those three would go on to bag top-10 finishes in each of the next two races, including Lovin’s first-place outing in Auburn on April 18.

M3Performance and Physical Therapy

See the difference Deerfoot Memorial Funeral Home can make.

Choose Quality. Choose Affordability.

205-655-3444

5360 Deerfoot Parkway – Trussville, AL

DeerfootMemorialFuneralHome.com

Kendell M. Jno-Finn PT, DPT, TPI-M2

M3Endeavors.com

Move Well • Live Well • Do Amazing Things

(205)508-3811 // 7040 Gadsden Hwy Suite 100 // Trussville, AL 35173