The Trussville Tribune – May 24 - 30, 2023

Trussville Council hears presentation from Alabama Fallen Warriors Memorial founder Mark Davis

By Crystal McGough

Editor TRUSSVILLE – Alabama

Fallen Warriors Memorial Project founder Mark Davis

Page 6

Argo appoints Rick Hopkins to open seat on City Council

By Terry Schrimscher

For the Tribune

ARGO – The Argo City Council met for the second regularly scheduled monthly meeting Monday night, May 22. The Council covered much of the agenda during the work session and moved quickly through the regular meeting immediately following.

Trussville fallen soldier honored by Senator Tuberville for Memorial Day

From the Tribune staff reports WASHINGTON — U.S.

Senator Tommy Tuberville recognized three of Alabama’s fallen soldiers, one of whom is from Trussville, and their families for Memorial Day on Tuesday, May 16.

Irondale City Council hears from community regarding controversial rezoning proposal

By Loyd McIntosh

For The Tribune

IRONDALE – Several

Irondale citizens descended upon City Hall to voice opposition to a controversial

See IRONDALE, Page 11

Tree Talk - Page 2

Opinion - Page 12

Lifestyle - Page 13

Outdoors - Page 14

Calendar - Page 15

Classified - Page 15

Obituary - Page 16

Sports - Pages 17-20

Gov. Kay Ivey speaks at Trussville Area Chamber of Commerce luncheon

By Crystal McGough Editor

TRUSSVILLE – The Trussville Area Chamber of Commerce had an extra special speaker at the May 18 Chamber Luncheon. Gov. Kay Ivey was greeted by rounds of applause as she entered the exhibition hall of the Trussville Civic Center.

“These are historic times all over our state,” said the 54th Governor of Alabama.

“Our economy is breaking new ground and we are facing challenges and opportunities not seen in many generations. The record rates of job creation and opportunity from the Tennessee River to the gulf coast is stunning.”

Ivey said Alabama is currently experiencing unprecedented surpluses in both the education and general funds. She also said the state was able to use $1 billion in onetime ARPA Funds to increase the state’s broadband connectivity, improve the water and sewer systems, and improve

the state’s healthcare infrastructure, which she called a “great success.”

Moving on, Ivey shared her top priorities for this legislative session and her sec-

ond term, which she said go hand-in-hand: increased investment in economic development and in education.

“We’ve already laid a solid foundation in both areas,

and we must double down on our efforts over the next four years if we are to make a lasting difference,” she said.

Mayor Buddy Choat invites public to Memorial Day dedication of Alabama Fallen Warriors Monument

riors Project has been in the works since 2016, when Mark Davis (US Navy) and Retired Marine Colonel Lee Busby had a vision to build bronze busts to honor Alabama’s fallen warriors.

According to the Blue Star Salute Foundation, the monument will include 115

MARTY’S TRUSSVILLE

concrete columns representing military service members killed in action.

“Each column will display a 3 by 6-inch giant dog tag listing the name, rank, age, and location of death,” the website description said. “It will also include 111 (12 by 12 inch) pavers honoring

those Military Service Members who died a Non-Hostile Death.”

Trussville Mayor Buddy Choat recently released the following letter to the public:

“Dear Community Members:

See MONUMENT, Page 9

Leeds

to hold annual Main Street Music Fest on June 10

By Chase Holmes News Reporter

LEEDS — Main Street Music fest is returning to downtown Leeds on June 10. Seven local bands will be in attendance including Lynnox, Evan Kennedy, Ron Dometrovich, No Requests,

Pinson gets grant from state tourism department for Butterbean Festival

By Nathan Prewett

For the Tribune

PINSON – At a meeting of the Pinson City Council on Thursday, May 18, Mayor Joe Cochran announced that the city received a grant applica-

600 bikers pass through Trussville on their way to Washington in support of the 33 annual Run for the Wall

By Chase Holmes News Reporter

TRUSSVILLE – The 33 Run for the Wall (RFTW) Southern Route passed

Moody Council recognizes track student, approves plans for walking trail

See MOODY, Page 10

Gov. Kay Ivey waves to those in attendance of the Chamber of Commerce luncheon

(Photo by Crystal McGough)

Credit: Blue Star Salute Foundation

The Trussville Tribune

T ree T alk

Tree Talk: Beauty and the Beast

By Jenna Jones Trussville Tree Commission

A recent sister trip to South Carolina involved a bit of meandering (some call it lost) through the Appalachian foothills between North & South Carolina. It was early April and the native dogwoods were in their glory! I was delighted, as this visual is no longer as common in the southeastern landscape.

Unfortunately, our native dogwoods have become susceptible to a variety of cankers and fungal growths.

Fortunately, an Asian species – Kousa (which simply means dogwood) – was introduced years ago as an option in the southeastern landscape. The Kousa is a hardier and more disease resistant dogwood. A later spring bloomer than the native, its flowers are insignificant; but its bracts put on a snowy white show – a pleasant surprise in the landscape, when many spring trees have dropped their blooms! The Kousa has an attractive transition in the fall as well with scarlet/purple leaves and fruit that resembles raspberries. All this to say: all non-native trees are not to be mistaken as invasive species!

The import and export of botanicals between continents has been a trade for centuries. (Founding Gardeners and The Brother Gardeners by Andrea Wulf are good reads.) However, not all intentions of trade were good nor well thought out: enter the charming mimosa tree. It was introduced as an ornamental in the 1700’s. Unfortunately, it acclimated easily to the southern climate and became competitive with the native trees.

Kudzu: Be careful where you park!

Beauty: Kousa dogwood in May moonlight. Planted by Girl Scout Troop 30679 in February as Trussville's designated Arbor Week tree. They named her Treesa. Beast: Mimosa – Beware the lure of her charm!

By mid-20th century, the tree had become common in the southern landscape. As a child growing up on Church Street, there was a large mimosa dead center in our front yard. Because it was an easy climber, the tree was a neighborhood kid magnet!

Frankly, I loved the pink powder puff blooms followed by seeds pods that looked like enormous English peas. However, our dad looked at the tree through a different lens: it was messy, the seeds could be toxic to animals, and it was invasive. Growing up near Bald Rock Mountain, he had a pro-

tective instinct for native landscapes – one mimosa meant thousands more in the native habitats. I sensed the tree’s days were numbered.

Finally (to our dad’s delight), the mimosa’s bark split, and every insect imaginable was invited to a sap feast! Our dad could now justify removing the neighborhood’s best entertainment. We cried but moved on with eyes focused on the neighborhood oaks, which looked like Mt. Everest to a child. As an adult, I now share that same protective spirit as my dad –no longer romanticizing this

tree but witnessing the devastation it is causing in the native landscapes. Driving on I-59 in summer is painful. The mimosa tree is just one example of many invasive botanicals (grasses, vines, trees, perennials) in Alabama’s landscape. Perhaps, kudzu is first to come to mind, but there are many more. The first defense is identity, then specialized control. Please become familiar with the extensive list at the Alabama Cooperative Extension System: Invasive Species. And in the meantime, be careful where you park!

Member

Trussville Rotary Club awards scholarship to Restoration Academy student

Friends of Trussville Library donates $5,000 for summer reading program

From the Tribune staff reports

TRUSSVILLE — Friends of the Trussville Library donates $5000 for summer reading program.

The Friends of the Trussville Library made a $5000 donation to the Trussville Public Library to support the upcoming summer reading program. The summer reading theme for 2023 is “All together now.” The registration and kickoff event are scheduled for June 2.

Trelani Grace was selected because of her servant leader-

ship at RA. The school chaplain stated that she exemplified the true meaning of the Rotary motto, “service above self,” more so than any other student in her class. Grace plans to attend the University of Alabama in the fall and major in business administration.

Trelani has represented RA

on several school exposure opportunities.

Shown in the photo with Trelani (center) are her dad, Dejuan Grace; Club President Jamie Townes; Trelani’s brother, Joshua Grace who is also a student at RA; and Rotarian and RA’s Associate Director Ernie Ty Williams.

Hewitt-Trussville student wins Good Citizen Essay Scholarship from DAR

By Chase Holmes News Repoter

TRUSSVILLE – Mem-

bers of The Josiah Brunson Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, were honored to announce Lily Burford as the winner of the Good Citizen Essay Scholarship Award for 2022 – 2023.

Burford is a senior at Hewitt-Trussville High School and accepted the award on April 21 for her essay entitled, “Our American Heritage and Our Responsibility for Preserving It. How will the essential actions of a good citizen (dependability, service, leadership, and patriotism) meet the challenges that America faces in this decade?”

“She has a passion for community service, and has

plans to pursue a career as a physicians assistant. She won a scholarship to the University of Alabama in Huntsville, and will be attending in the fall,” said Cyndy Horner, Corresponding Secretary for the DAR.

The DAR Good Citizen

Program and Scholarship Contest recognizes and rewards outstanding young people who exhibit qualities of good citizenship in their homes, schools, and communities. A panel of three independent judges choose the overall winner, and the student’s essay is presented to the next level of competition.

The program is open to all high school seniors enrolled in accredited public, private, parochial schools, and registered home study programs in good standing with the State Board of Education. Information regarding the program is sent to high school guidance counselors in early September.

The DAR is a non-profit, non-political service organization dedicated to promoting education, historical preservation, and patriotism.

“We are emphasizing kindness and community with our theme this year,” said Jason Baker, library director. “Our summer reading program is a service to the community and encourages reading as a pastime for all ages. With events planned for children, youth and adults, it encourages our residents to come see all the services we provide. We want to help children realize that reading is fun! In addition, studies show that children who read during the summer are more prepared for the next school year when classes resume.”

Last year the seven-week program reached 791 participants and included 66 events with 4,950 Trussville area residents attending.

“We voted to donate $5,000 this year to support summer reading, because it is such an important pro-

gram,” said Marilyn Sessions, Friends of the Library president. “Public libraries support our communities, and we are particularly blessed to have our own library here in Trussville. Friends of the Trussville Library provides a way to pay back for top quality service and to support their efforts on our behalf.”

Friends of the Trussville Library supports the library by making financial donations for programming and providing extra hands for special events.

They run a used bookstore in the library, stocked by donations. All proceeds are returned for library use, including summer reading and other special programs. The Friends also raise money through the annual Bookin’ It 5K. This year’s race takes off at 8:00 a.m., Saturday, October 14, 2023. Registration is $25. Monthly Friends of the Library meetings are held at the library the first Tuesday of each month at 11:00 a.m. Membership is $10 per year.

• Stunning lakefront home on Logan Martin Lake.

• 1.5 Acres along with a beautiful saltwater pool.

• 1,875± square foot Home has 3 Bedroom 2.5 baths, basement that leads out to the beautiful views, pool, and deck.

• Beautiful updated kitchen and master bath on the main floor.

• Lovely sunroom, separate main floor laundry, and a new carport.

• Dock includes 2 boat slips, lifts.

Photo by Clarissa Winchester

Lily Bufrord (Photo by DAR)

Friends of the Trussville Library President Marilyn Sessions presents $5,000 to Jason Baker, library director, for summer reading program (Photo by Friends of the Trussville Library)

Pinson Valley Arts Council to host First Friday: ‘70s Party’ on June 2

By Crystal McGough

Editor PINSON – The Pinson Valley Arts Council will host its second “First Friday” street party event at 4289 Main Street, Pinson, on Friday, June 2. The party will have a ‘70’s theme and will last from 5-8 p.m. There will also be a contest for Best Dressed.

First Friday is a free event to bring the community together, as well as to promote and support local small businesses on Pinson’s historic Main Street.

Attendees can visit Price’s Ice Cream, which is located in the historic Price’s Drug building and looks like something straight out of the ‘50s, or browse through a unique and stylish selection of clothes at Celina’s Boutique. They will also have the opportunity to grab a specialty coffee or tea from Barking Bee Coffee and then head over to Love Life Naturals for some hand-made self-care items.

“With First Friday, my goal is to try to help all the

stores right there on Main Street,” PVAC founder DieDra Ruff said. “Try to get people to stop and shop at Celina’s, eat lunch at Price’s, go into the little perfume store. You’ve got the dog grooming place (Comfort Grooming), so that’s somewhere you can take your dog.”

Ruff said that traffic comes down Main Street often but doesn’t really stop on Main Street. By offering live entertainment in a block party style setting, she hopes to get people to notice and take

pride in the small businesses of their community and encourage them to shop local.

“I want people driving down the street to hear the music and pull over and come and sit down,” she said. “The way it will be set up, you just bring your folding chair, pop your chair out and listen to some live entertainment. Send the kids next door to Price’s and get ice cream or pizza or whatever. If you feel like going next door to Celina’s and buying something –it’s just to benefit the whole

street.”

As for now, Ruff said the Arts Council plans to host First Friday at the start of each month from May to October.

First Friday is sponsored by Mezrano Law Firm, Studio 54 School of Art, Beverly’s Dance School, Celina’s Boutique, Price’s Ice Cream and Love Life Naturals. For more information or to inquire about booth spaces at future First Friday events, contact DieDra Ruff at (404) 379-0096.

Pinson Trade Days to be held Saturday, June 3

By Crystal McGough

Editor

PINSON – Pinson’s Trade Days event will return to Main Street on Saturday, June 3, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Trade Days was founded in November 2021 by Patti of Patti’s on Main Street Flea Market and Consignment Shop as a way to help bring Main Street, and the local businesses there, back to life.

“The pandemic killed the

whole street,” Patti said. “We didn’t have much business anyway on Main Street. Most everybody knows that Main Street was dead, but the pandemic just polished it off. … That’s why we do Trade Days … We’ve got to help people.” Pinson Trade Days took place eight months of the year last year, with the City of Pinson helping out by hiring police officers to shut down the street and paying for portable restrooms for the event.

However, at the Dec. 8, 2022, meeting of the Pinson City Council, the council voted to reduce their support of Trade Days from monthly to quarterly.

“We’ve gave them a year, mostly every month, except for CityFest, Butterbean (and) certain months we couldn’t do it,” Councilor Glenda Kirkland said. “It cost us $18,000 last year to support them with the officers and port-a-johns that we

furnished.”

As it is currently, Pinson Trade Days is scheduled to be held the first Saturdays of March, June, September and November.

Vendor booths for Trade Days are free, but anyone interested must sign up in advance through Patti’s Flea Market & Consignment Shop, which is located at 4281 Main Street and open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Saturday.

ALEA and NSBC teaming up for National Safe Boating Week ahead of Memorial Day

From the Tribune staff reports

MONTGOMERY – The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s (ALEA) Marine Patrol Division is joining the National Safe Boating Council (NSBC) to participate in this year’s National Safe Boating Week which is held May 20-26.

To kick off the safety week, personnel within various divisions and units were spotted around the office wearing life jackets on Friday, May 19, in celebration of “Wear Your Life Jacket to Work Day.” The annual event serves as a fun,

educational element prior to National Safe Boating Week, the official launch of NSBC’s 2023 Safe Boating Campaign.

ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor said, “Educating the public about the safety as well as the comfort of life jackets continues to be a priority for our Agency during this important campaign. Situations on the water can change in the blink of an eye and fatalities from drowning are preventable tragedies that can affect anyone in or around the water. That is why it is imperative for those near the water to wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved

and properly fitted life jacket as it is the simplest life-saving strategy for those participating in recreational boating, paddling or towed water sports.”

ALEA’s Marine Patrol Division Chief Steve Thompson said, “Wearing a life jacket is a key component of boating safety, along with the knowl-

edge and skill needed to keep various types of craft under control in different environments. In February, ALEA’s Marine Patrol Division offered numerous free boating safety and license courses across the state to prepare for the busy summer season. These courses were a great opportunity for citizens to spend time on their local waterways and discuss the particular challenges boaters may face with local Troopers. Now that our classes have wrapped up, we are looking ahead to continue to serve local boaters by offering free vessel inspections.”

ALEA Marine Patrol’s Northern District will be free offering courtesy vessel inspections on Tuesday May 23, from 10 a.m. to noon at the following locations:

• Pickwick Lake (Florence)

• Florence Harbor Marina –McFarland Park

• Lake Guntersville

• City Harbor Marina

• Logan Martin Lake Riverside City Boat Ramp

ALEA Troopers will be available to inspect all required safety equipment and educate boaters on proper fitting life jackets ahead of the busy Memorial Day weekend

35235 (205) 661-1188

CrossFit Trussville operating out of local church, never missed a beat after devastating fire

By Chase Holmes News Reporter

TRUSSVILLE

— Thanks to the generosity of a local church, CrossFit Trussville never missed a beat following a fire that gutted the facility at 145 Railroad Ave. almost two weeks ago on May 7.

The first order of business for CrossFit owner Andrew Rape was locating a facility where workouts could be held temporarily while a long term solution could be worked out. That need was fulfilled when a local church in Trussville provided space for the business to operate.

“We actually never missed a single class and have been operating out of Gateway Family Church in Trussville,” Rape said. “We are tearing down every Friday

and setting up every Sunday. I don’t want to get ahead of myself but it seems as though people are adapting well, no cancelled memberships, only people signing up.”

Trussville Fire Chief Tim Shotts said firefighters were able to respond quickly to the blaze when the 911 call came in because a TFRD crew was

in the immediate area at the time, but the fire was already well underway.

“We had units returning from an earlier run when the CrossFit call came,” Shotts said. “They were able to jump right on it, then the other stations responded to help.”

Shotts said the business was closed at the time of the

Trussville branch of Birmingham Orthodontics

completes relocation

From the Tribune staff reports

TRUSSVILLE — Birmingham Orthodontics announced it has completed the relocation of their Trussville clinic on May 10. They are now located at 442 Main St. in Trussville near the new Trussville Board of Education building. The new location offers additional space and convenient access to clinic facilities.

Birmingham Orthodontics is an orthodontic practice based in Birmingham. It has clinics located in Alabaster, Greystone, Trussville and

Hoover. The practice employs more than 60 employees and has five orthodontists on staff, Dr. Michael McCarthy, Dr. Erika Hartman, Dr. Alexis Pugh and Dr. Careybeth Rivers, who oversees the Trussville clinic.

“It is a pleasure to serve the people of Trussville, and we look forward to continuing the same top-notch service as we welcome you all to our new location,” Dr. Rivers said. “We strive to provide affordable orthodontic treatment while never sacrificing quality and our new clinic location will give us a greater opportunity to do just

that.”

The practice has been voted “the Best of Hoover” by Hoover Sun readers in 2018 and 2020, “Best of” in AboutTown in 2020, 2021 and 2022, “Best of” in Birmingham Magazine in 2017, 2018 and 2019, “Hoover’s Best” in Hoover’s Magazine in 2020, 2021 and 2022, “Best of the Best” in Shelby Living for 2020 and runner up for 2021 and 2022, and “Birmingham’s Best Small Business” by Birmingham Business Journal readers in 2017.

To find out more about the practice, visit bhamorthodontics.com.

fire and there were no injuries. The fire appeared to have been burning in the interior of the building for quite a while before 911 calls came in.

Rape and his team had to move quickly to be ready for members after the Sunday afternoon fire caused extensive damage to the building.

As the name implies, CrossFit relies on multiple diverse workout stations, inside and outside of the building, to meet cross training needs. In other words, the comeback wasn’t as simple as moving some weightlifting equipment to a new building.

“We are pouring a foundation of an outdoor pull-up rig, cutting a trail run, building a bridge for a short run, and adding an outdoor space as well all this week,” Rape said. Watching a fire take so

much away in a matter of hours that had taken years to build can be emotionally devastating, but Rape and his team didn’t have the luxury of dwelling on the loss. They had to focus on moving forward for the sake of their members and the business.

“Couldn’t have imagined this going so well,” he said. “We are adapting as best we can and trying our hardest to provide the best we can to our folks!”

Keeping an existing business going while facing the prospect of a permanent rebuild is daunting, if not overwhelming. But Rape’s attitude in the face of the challenges is a joyful one.

After recounting the work required to just keep the operation going, it was clear that Rape didn’t view the tasks

Andrew Rape of CrossFit Trussville works to build outdoor training facilities at temporary location.

ahead with a sense dread, but with excitement and anticipation.

“Starting the process of rebuilding, as well,” he said. “So, we have that to look forward to well down the line.”

Shooting near Clay leaves 1 dead, 1 charged with murder

From the Tribune staff reports

JEFFERSON COUNTY — A shooting on Monday night in unincorporated Jefferson County near Clay left one man dead and another man charged with his murder.

At approximately 7:00 p.m. Monday, Jefferson County Sheriff’s deputies were dispatched to Town and Country Circle just off of Old Springville Road in East Jefferson County, on a report of a male who had been shot, according to Lt. Joni Money. The victim was transported by ambulance to UAB Hospital where he was later

pronounced deceased.

“According to reports, the victim and the suspect had been involved in a verbal altercation that turned physical,” Money said. “During the physical altercation, the suspect fired a single shot, striking the 31-year-old, male victim. The suspect then called 911 and remained at the scene until deputies arrived.”

Money said the suspect, 21-year-old Eslam Mohamed Zaki, was arrested and placed in the Jefferson County Jail in Birmingham. He is being charged with murder. His charge has no bond.

Eslam Mohamed Zaki has been charged with murder.

High speed chase through 3 counties ends when driver crashes into culvert

attempting to stop a stolen Toyota Scion XD on Interstate 65 south. The driver of the vehicle failed to stop and continued at a high rate of speed through Cullman, Blount, and Jefferson Counties.

The driver, Steven Garner, 43, of Jasper, continued to travel down I-65 southbound at a high rate of speed until he exited onto U.S. 31 in Hoover. Garner continued to elude law enforcement as he

was traveling through Hoover and Vestavia city limits until he struck a drainage culvert on U.S. 31. and disabled the Scion. After the Scion became disabled Garner and passenger Dana Morales, 50, of Jasper were taken into custody without further incident.

Nothing further is available as Troopers with the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s (ALEA) Highway Patrol Division continue to investigate.

Woman, 36, dies after fall from minivan in Jefferson County

From the Tribune staff reports

JEFFERSON COUN-

TY — According to Lt. Joni Money of the Jefferson County Sheriffs Office, a woman died after jumping on and then falling off a moving minivan.

Money said the incident occurred around 2:30 p.m. on Friday when Jefferson County deputies were dispatched to a report of a 36-year-old female pedestrian struck by a minivan, in the 5800 block of Old Huntsville Road in McCalla.

Medical personnel also responded to the scene. As deputies began their investigation, it was learned that this was not the case of a pedestrian being struck by a vehicle, according to Money.

“Evidence suggested that

there had been a verbal altercation at this location between the deceased and a second female,” Money said.

“The second female went to leave the residence with another person. As the vehicle, a minivan, attempted to pull away, the deceased jumped on the side of the moving vehicle. The deceased lost her footing and fell from the vehicle.”

The deceased received

significant head trauma as a result of the fall. Medical personnel pronounced her dead at the scene.

“Jefferson County Sheriff’s detectives are conducing an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death,” Money said. “The evidence will be presented to the Jefferson County District Attorney’s Office to determine if criminal charges are warranted in this case.”

was in attendance at the May 23 meeting of the Trussville City Council to give a presentation and thank the council for its support of the project.

“December of 2021, I came before you to propose building the Alabama Fallen Warriors Monument at Trussville Veteran’s Park. You all voted unanimously that night,” Davis said. “From the bottom of my heart, I thank you so much for believing in my vision for the monument to honor the 226 men and women that have died since 9-11. These are the faces of freedom; this is why y’all built the monument.”

Davis said that, unfortunately, the number of Alabama’s fallen warriors since Sept. 11, 2001, has now risen to 227.

“We just had one added last month, an Army Master Sergeant from Hoover,” he said. “He died of cancer due to the burn pits in Afghanistan and Iraq.”

Furthermore, Davis publicly recognized three individuals who played significant roles in the fruition of the project: Jeff Berry, Lee Bennett, and Charles McDowell.

“They really pulled together and got that monument built,” Davis said. “Jeff, Lee and Charles, they worked tirelessly to make this a beautiful monument that Trussville would be very proud of.”

Next, Davis spoke to the council about a few new elements he has added, including a QR code that can be scanned, linking people to the Blue Star Salute Foundation’s website where they can see all of Alabama’s fallen warriors.

“All these faces, when they died, when they served, their branch and rank of service,” he said.

Davis also said he worked with Trussville Historical Society’s Jane Alexander to create a time capsule.

“My vision is to open it up in 25 years,” he said. “One of the ideas we talked about is getting the first graders in school to write a letter. They’ll be 31-32 in 25 years. They’ll be around when we

open up the time capsule.””

He talked about the addition of silhouette figures representing each branch of the military, which will stand on top of the hill overlooking and saluting the memorial.

“That hit me at three o’clock in the morning,” he said. “I got up early one morning, I don’t know why – this has always been on my mind – but I came up with the idea of the soldiers saluting.”

Davis presented the mayor and council members each with a concrete paver they can put in their yard, recognizing them for their contribution to the memorial.

“It’s been an honor to work on this; I’ve had a lot of fun,” Davis said in closing. “It’s an honor to serve our military service members.”

Councilor Jaime Anderson reported to Davis that 80 Gold Star families have already signed up to attend the dedication of the memorial on Monday, May 29.

“This project, really, was (Davis’) vision from day one,” Mayor Buddy Choat said. “We were afforded the opportunity to support this, and this council, as he said, voted unanimously to support it. It wasn’t about how much it’s going to cost. We had so many people to donate time, money … This will be a proud moment for our city, and how appropriate on Memorial Day to be able to do this.”

The council also recognized Tiwanna Taylor on her retirement from Peachtree Assisted Living, presenting Taylor with a certificate, which read, “Presented to Tiwanna Taylor in honor of her decades of tender-loving care to our senior relatives and neighbors here at Peachtree Assisted Living. The City of Trussville wishes you a long and healthy retirement.”

During council and may-

or reports and comments, the council praised the HTHS Girls Softball team for winning the 7A State Championship.

Council President Lisa Bright called it “the biggest news of the past few days.”

“Three out of the last five years, they’ve won the state championship,” Councilor Alan Taylor added. “The fourth year, they were runner ups; they were in the state championship game and lost. The fifth year, it was COVID, and they didn’t have it. I think we would’ve won it that year. It’s a well-oiled machine right now.”

In other business, the council approved a consent agenda that consisted, among other things, of reappointing Jim Meads to the Planning and Zoning Commission and appointing James Miller to the Veterans Committee, replacing Rob Langford.

Additionally, the council approved the following resolutions and ordinances:

• Ordinance 2023-010, annexing undeveloped lot at 4680 Trussville Clay Road

• Ordinance 2021-011, annexing undeveloped lot at 6431 Roe Chandler Road Ordinance 2023-012, amending the city’s $6,000,000 General Obligation Warrant

• Resolution 2023-33, awarding police cargo van bid to Voyles Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Birmingham Resolution 2023-34, declaring various Parks & Recreation assets as surplus The Trussville City Council meets the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at the City Hall Annex. Meetings begin at 6 p.m., and workshop meetings are typically held the Thursday before a regular meeting.

Notice is hereby given that the City of Argo, Alabama will hold a public hearing on June 20th, 2023, at 6PM CST, at Argo City Hall, at 100 Black Jack Road, Argo, AL 35173.

At the public hearing the city will work with citizens to creat citywide zoning based on the Argo Comprehensive Plan.

Mark Davis gives Alabama Fallen Warriors Memorial presentation to the Trussville City Council. (Photo by Crystal McGough)

Victims identified in Irondale murder-suicide at Colonial Village Apartments at Trussville

From the Tribune staff reports

IRONDALE — The Irondale police are investigating an incident they believe is a murder-suicide that occurred on Friday, leaving two people dead.

Jennifer Lee Salvadori, 52, of Irondale, was identified as

the homicide victim, according to Jefferson County Chief Deputy Coroner Bill Yates. Yates said Billy Code Jewell, 51, of Springville, died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Salvadori was one of two persons found unresponsive inside an apartment by police performing a welfare check

at the request of a coworker, Yates said. An autopsy found the decedent sustained a gunshot wound injury due to an assault. Yates said Jewell sustained a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The death is being investigated as a suicide.

Officers responded to a call at 9:15 a.m. of a person

down inside a residence, according to Irondale PD Lt. Jason Hill. The incident occurred at Colonial Village Apartments at Trussville which is located at 300 Meadow Drive just off of Edwards Lake Parkway. Despite the name, the apartment complex lies just inside the Irondale city limits.

“Irondale Police Detectives were called and began an investigation into the deaths of two people inside the residence,” Hill said. “The investigation is ongoing, but detectives advised that the case appears to be a murder-suicide between two people that were in a dating relationship.”

11 injured, 2 dead, 2 critical in Birmingham shootings during violent weekend

From the Tribune staff reports

BIRMINGHAM — Eleven people were shot or injured, two have died, and two are critical after multiple shooting incidents around Birmingham over the weekend, including areas of the city where violent crimes are uncommon, according to Sgt. Truman Fitzgerald of the Birmingham Police Department.

On Monday morning, the Birmingham Police Department issued a statement noting that since Friday, officers have responded to five separate shooting incidents which have resulted in a total of eleven community members shot and/or injured by gunfire.

“These incidents have claimed the lives of at least two community members and have left two others fighting for their lives,” Fitzgerald said.

According to the statement, three shooting incidents were responded to and investigated by South Pre-

cinct patrol officers from the same shift.

“This speaks to what all our officers endure daily and the dedication they have to the City of Birmingham,” Fitzgerald said. “Four of the shootings involved situations in which a victim was targeted and one of the shootings stemmed from a dispute inside a local area bar.”

Fitzgerald said police are continuing to see violence used to resolve often simple disputes and conflicts.

“The Birmingham Police Department is committed to working together with the community to change this narrative,” Fitzgerald said.

At approximately 10:08 p.m. on Friday, officers were dispatched to the 900 block of 47th Street North on a report of multiple people shot, Fitzgerald said.

Officers arrived to find a woman injured and three men with gunshot wounds in front of an apartment. Officers rendered aid and Birmingham Fire and Rescue personnel

transported victims to area hospitals. One man was pronounced dead from his injuries, Investigators said the victims were attending a birthday party when an unknown suspect approached them on foot and began firing shots at the group. There are no suspects in the shooting, according to Fitzgerald.

The second shooting incident came at 12:50 a.m. on Sunday in Lakeview near the Tin Roof bar where four people were shot in an exchange of gunfire. Two of those victims sustained life-threatening injuries, Fitzgerald said.

“Officers observed an adult female injured by gunfire and an adult male suffering from an apparent gunshot wound,” Fitzgerald said. While officers were in the parking lot, they learned a separate party who was involved in the incident was leaving in a vehicle.

Fitzgerald said officers followed the vehicle and conducted a traffic stop near

Shootout in Lakeview wounds four, leaves two with life-threatening injuries

From the Tribune staff reports

BIRMINGHAM — Ac-

cording to the Birmingham Police Department, an investigation is underway following an incident involving multiple people shot in the Lakeview District.

Officer Truman Fitzgerald said the incident occurred on Sunday, May 21, 2023.

“At around 12:50 a.m., two Birmingham police officers were working in an off-duty capacity at a local area bar in the 2700 Block of 7th Avenue South; they were alerted to shots fired in a nearby parking lot,” Fitzgerald said. “Officers observed an adult female injured by gunfire and an adult male suffering from an apparent gunshot

wound.”

While officers were in the parking lot, they learned a separate party who was involved in the incident was leaving in a vehicle.

Fitzgerald said officers followed the vehicle and conducted a traffic stop near the 700 Block of 21st Street South where they discovered that the vehicle’s two occupants were shot.

Birmingham Fire and Rescue personnel arrived at the two separate locations and transported each victim to a local area hospital. The adult male discovered in the parking lot and one of the males discovered after the traffic stop were suffering life-threatening injuries.

“The preliminary investigation has revealed that we

believe the two male victims found during the traffic stop were involved in a physical altercation with the male found in the parking lot,” Fitzgerald said. “The physical altercation took place in the parking lot of the original scene (2700 Block of 7th Avenue South) and led to shots being exchanged between the two separate parties.”

Detectives are working to determine which individual is a suspect.

Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact the Birmingham Police Department’s Felony Assault Unit @ (205) 254-1764 or remain anonymous and receive a cash reward for your tip by calling Crime Stoppers @ (205) 254-7777.

the 700 Block of 21st Street South where they discovered that the vehicle’s two occupants were shot.

Birmingham Fire and Rescue personnel arrived at the two separate locations and transported each victim to a local area hospital. The adult male discovered in the parking lot and one of the males discovered after the traffic stop were suffering life-threatening injuries.

“The preliminary investigation has revealed that we believe the two male victims found during the traffic stop were involved in a physical altercation with the male found in the parking lot,” Fitzgerald said. “The phys-

ical altercation took place in the parking lot of the original scene (2700 Block of 7th Avenue South) and led to shots being exchanged between the two separate parties.”

Detectives are working to determine which individual is a suspect.

The third shooting incident resulted in the death of a 27-year-old man in the parking garage of a highrise apartment building on Highland Avenue. The victim was identified as Christian Breon Wyatt of Birmingham, Fitzgerald said.

At approximately 5:25 a.m., South Precinct officers were dispatched to a shots fired call at the Cortland Vesta

apartment complex, located at 2173 Highland Avenue. As officers were en route, the call was updated to a person shot call.

“Officers arrived on the scene and entered a parking garage when they observed the victim lying unresponsive suffering from an apparent gunshot wound,” Fitzgerald said. “Birmingham Fire and Rescue personnel arrived on the scene and pronounced the victim deceased. The preliminary investigation suggests the victim was involved in a confrontation in the parking garage and an unknown suspect or suspects fired shots at him. The victim was struck by gunfire.”

According to Carol Robinson, the victim was a resident at the highrise apartments and this is the first reported homicide at Cortland Vesta which opened in 2021.

“This is just an example how violence does not discriminate which area it comes to,’’ Fitzgerald told Robinson. “Unfortunately, we have had a violent weekend and we’ve seen violence take place in areas that are not common. It’s an eye-opener.”

Photo courtesy of the Irondale Police Department.

Tribune file photo

Chamber

From front page

Since 2017, when she was elected to office, Ivey said the state’s investment in new and expanded industries has already added 78,000 jobs in Alabama.

“Today, over two million people are employed in Alabama, and that’s the most in state history,” she said. “Unemployment in Alabama remains not only at a record low of 2.3%, but we’re currently the only southeastern state with low unemployment. Folks, let me say that one more time: we have hit Alabama’s lowest ever unemployment rate.

“I hate to disappoint the nay-sayers, but we have more good news,” Ivey added. “My office recently announced that a record $10.1 billion worth of big dollars in capital investments were made in Alabama in 2022. This is the highest level on record. … Results like these don’t just happen by luck. They require planning and leadership. From economic incentives to industrial site preparation, Alabama has become a trail-blazer in attracting new jobs and industry.”

Ivey mentioned one specific economic development program, the Rebuild Alabama Act, which she said “has literally paved the way for industrial development and job recruitment across our state.”

“Since the Rebuild Alabama Act was first enacted just four years ago, new road and bridge projects have broken ground in all 67 counties,” Ivey said. “More than $170 million in state funds have been awarded to cities and counties in which 234 new projects are either underway or already completed. And while we may not love driving through all those orange cones … I assure you the results will be worth the wait.”

Ivey also mentioned the planned I-59 expansion from the I-459 interchange to Chalkville Mountain Road, which will add one northbound lane and one southbound lane to the interstate. The project was delayed due to the original bids coming in $18 million higher than expected, Trussville Mayor Buddy Choat said in the City Council workshop later that evening, but Ivey said she is monitoring the project closely and looks forward to bringing it to fruition in the near future.

Next, the governor spoke to what she called a major priority for her time in office – increasing broadband access throughout all of Alabama – saying that, since 2018, over $300 million in state and federal funding has been committed to broadband expansion.

“Alabama is working,

and that is why our state is among the top 15 in population growth from July 2021 to July 2022,” Ivey said. “We are proud to welcome folks in search of a better life from California, Colorado and New York.”

Adding to Alabama’s recent accomplishments and accolades, Ivey proudly mentioned that the United States Air Force chose Huntsville, Alabama, as the future home of the Space Command headquarters.

“We won the competition and the name fair and square,” Ivey said. “What’s sad is there’s some folks who don’t like Alabama’s success. President Biden has slowwalked the final approval of Space Command’s location in Huntsville in hopes of finding a way to take it away from us. We all know that politics should never come before what is best for Amer-

ica’s national defense. The Biden administration must put America first and follow the Air Force’s recommendation to build Space Command and the new headquarters in Huntsville.”

Speaking of national defense, Ivey transitioned into comments on the U.S. southern border, particularly where drug trafficking is concerned.

“For the entire length of the Biden administration, illegal immigration has broken records,” she said. “President Biden’s abandonment of border security has not only affected America’s security, but also the lives of many young Americans. The deadly drug Fentanyl is the leading cause of death of Americans from ages 18 to 45 (with a) 94% increase since 2019. … In Alabama, Fentanyl endangers our children and our first responders.”

On April 6, Ivey signed into law House Bill 1, which, for the first time under Alabama law, subjects Fentanyl traffickers to severe penalties for drug possession.

After tackling the topics of illegal immigration and drug trafficking, Ivey moved on to a more positive subject matter: Alabama’s children and improvements in their education.

“Speaking of our children, they are the key to Alabama’s future,” she said. “For this reason, I have set a goal of Alabama reaching the top 30 states in educational achievement by the end of my term as governor. Our journey to success in the classroom starts with the youngest of learners. Alabama’s first-class Pre-K program, which has led the nation for the last 16 years, has generated positive results among our earliest students,

and I’m committed to ensure that every family who wants to enroll their child will have access to it.”

Ivey emphasized that giving every single child, no matter their family’s income level, equality in their educational journey would result in giving them equal opportunity in life.

“We’re not focusing on the nonsense. We’re focusing on the building blocks of education: reading and math,” she said. “While we’re speaking of reading, beginning this year, Alabama’s children will also benefit from my partnership with Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. It’s a book-gifting program that brings free, high-quality books to children from birth to age five, no matter the family’s income.”

One challenge to improving reading and math proficiency in Alabama has been teacher shortages, Ivey said.

“Programs like the TEAMS Act will pay math and science teachers up to $15,000 more a year in hardto-staff schools,” she said.

“My goal is to help (the) starting salary for all Alabama teachers to be the highest in the southeast by the end of my term.”

Additionally, Ivey said the state must continue to have meaningful discussions on improving school choices, including the option of charter schools.

“The bottom line is simple: if a community wants to improve it’s education options by establishing a charter school, then we need to offer them support; not red tape and obstacles,” she said. “These are just a few examples of my new education strategy for the next four years. And folks, I’m truly excited about our state’s potential to transform my education system … by opening doors for families to prosper for generations to come in Sweet Home Alabama.”

Gov. Kay Ivey speaks at the Trussville Area Chamber of Commerce luncheon. (Photo by Crystal McGough)

Governor Ivey receives a gift from the City of Trussville. (Photo by Crystal McGough)

Senator Tuberville honors Sergeant Jason Stegall in a presentation for Memorial Day

Soldier

From front page

On the U.S. Senate floor, Senator Tuberville shared the story of Sergeant Jason Stegall of Trussville.

“From the age of 10, he knew he wanted to make a difference by joining our military. Even with injuries, and several near-death experiences, this desire to serve never wavered. Sergeant Stegall’s courage saved countless

Monument

From front page

On behalf of the Trussville Veterans Committee and the Trussville City Council, I invite you to join us for the dedication of the Alabama Fallen Warriors Monument on Memorial Day, Monday, May 29th, 2023, at 2:00 PM, at Veteran’s Park, 105 Parkway Drive.

The monument honors the 226 brave Alabamians who lost their lives while serving in the War on Terror. These heroes made the ultimate sacrifice to defend our nation and

American lives,” said Senator Tuberville.

“On one occasion, he helped stop two suicide bombers from carrying out an attack on a U.S. military base in Iraq. Another time, he led his men away from an ambush—despite being shot just beneath his heart. Sergeant Stegall earned numerous awards for his heroism, including a Bronze Star and two Purple Hearts.” Stegall passed away from

protect our freedoms, and we want to ensure that their memory lives on.

The ceremony is an opportunity for our community to come together and pay tribute to the men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. It is a time to reflect on their bravery, dedication, and commitment to our nation, and to express our gratitude for their sacrifice.

We know that the families and loved ones of these fallen heroes will be in attendance, and we hope that many of you will join us in supporting them and honoring their loved ones.

a mission-related illness while serving on active duty at age 31.

“Ashley was left to cope with the loss of her teenage sweetheart, and having to raise three sons alone—including 10-month-old Landon. Ashley keeps Sergeant Stegall’s memory alive by reminding her sons about his sacrifice and belief in America.”

Sergeant Stegall is honored at the Trussville Veteran’s Memorial.

The ceremony will be a solemn and respectful occasion and will include remarks from those who made this monument possible, a 21-gun salute, taps, and a moment of silence.

We are proud to honor the memory of these Alabamians who gave their lives for our country, and we encourage all members of our community to attend. If you have any questions, please contact the Trussville Veterans Committee at trussvillevetcommittee@outlook.com.

Sincerely, Buddy Choat Mayor, City of Trussville”

through Trussville underneath the Deerfoot Parkway overpass on Tuesday, May 23 at around noon.

Over 600 motorcycles passed through Trussville on their way to Washington to visit several Veterans and Memorial sites and to recognize Memorial Day. The bikers have spent the past several days traveling from Los Angeles. A crowd of citizens, veterans, bikers and first responders watched from above while holding American flags and bearing pins marking the occasion. Firefighters from both Trussville and Center Point’s fire departments brought in a firetruck from each department and used their ladders to display a giant American flag.

Travelers, truckers, and motorcycle enthusiasts alike laid on their horns as they passed under Deerfoot in a show of support. As those gathered waited on the main convoy to pass through, several fleets of ambassadors and scouts waved as they rode on and some took exit 143 to join the onlookers for a short time before continuing on with their duty.

When the main convoy arrived it took several minutes for the final bike to roll under Deerfoot.

Run for the Wall was created to promote healing for veterans as well as to honor those who were killed in action and members of the armed forces still considered missing in action.

Pepper Loveless, a seven year rider, organizer and veteran, was thankful for those who came out to support the vets.

“We haven’t forgotten,” he said. “We got 600 bikes coming through and this lets the families of those MIA and KIA know that we haven’t forgotten them and we support them.” Loveless, along with dozens of supporters, waved to the bikers, both the

advance team and the main convoy, as they came through.

Riders participating in the Run for the Wall had been on the road for seven days with several more to go until they reached their final destination in Washington. The organization has been active since 1989 and has made their yearly run almost unbroken except in 2020 and 2021 when it was not possible to run due to the pandemic, resuming again in 2021. Once they were able to ride again, the RFTW resumed its goal of ‘1 Mission, 4 Routes”. Recently, the organization expanded into a new chapter that is more inclusive

of Middle East Conflict veterans.

In addition to the Southern Route, the RFTW also includes the Central and Midway routes. After the Memorial Day ceremonies are complete, a separate fourth route will begin its journey to Marseilles, IL to pay their respects to the Middle East Conflict wall memorial.

Loveless said they plan to make the annual event marking the passing of the RFTW through Trussville even bigger next year. More information about the RFTW can be found on their website.

Pepper Loveless (third from right) stands with members of Center Point FD and Trussville FD (Photo by Chase Holmes)

Participants in the RFTW pass through Trussville. (Photo by Chase Holmes)

Festival

From front page Moody

Rails and Ales is hosting the festival on their stage.

Pre-sale tickets will be $20 and that price will go up to $25 at the door. Kids 12 and under can attend for free. Proceeds from the event will go to benefit Leeds Main Street and their efforts in revitalizing downtown Leeds.

The event coincides with Leeds Main Street’s founding anniversary on June 1, making the occasion a special one for the organization.

Amber Vines, the Executive Director of Leeds Main Street, said this is an event celebrating all things Leeds and its people.

“When you walk into this festival, it’s such a community environment and filled with people that love Leeds. It is a community event created by the community. These are volunteers that are organizing this,” said Vines. “When you walk in there is just this energy that can’t be explained. This is an event for people who love Leeds and the people here.”

A cornhole tournament will take place at 3:30 p.m. Registration starts at 3 p.m. Grab a friend and join in. The cost is $5 per person or $10 a team. Prizes are available for those that win.

Sweet Home Spirits is

hosting an official pre-party that starts at 1 p.m. and features local musician Ham Bagby.

If you bring a receipt from a downtown business from that day you will receive a free raffle ticket to the raffle.

Several local businesses are sponsoring the event in-

the Council voted 3-2 to appoint Rick Hopkins to the vacant seat.

cluding: Heidelberg Materials, MortgageRight, C&B Piping, Millennial Bank, Krack & Price Lawyers and Litigators, and Webb Realty.

For more information, including details about the musicians and what time their lineups will take place, you can visit Main Street Leeds website.

year budget within my church budget.”

From front page

Cahaba River.

Moody High School junior Talan Smith was recognized for his achievements, recently winning several championship titles. He is the son of Police Chief Reece Smith.

He won in the 100, 200, and 400 meter dash in the para-ambulatory division. He will travel to Arkansas for the Special Olympics.

Afterwards, Chief Smith introduced new police officer Joshua Clinkscales. He transferred from the UAB Police Department and has six years of experience as an officer, Smith said.

The council then passed several items on the agenda before coming to the walking trail.

“Years ago when we actually moved the Little Cahaba River back, we kept a 100-foot easement along the Little Cahaba for a walking trail,” said Mayor Joe Lee. “But we’ve never been able to address it because we’ve never been able to afford it. Now we’re going to apply for grants through our city engineers.”

He said that they will try for phase one, which will be to have one mile of the trail laid out. It will be near Springview, Creekview and

other subdivisions. The entrance would be located at Carl Jones Road.

“Our goal is to actually have a 2-mile track if we can work with the property owners to access easements through their properties to the city park,” Lee said.

The council voted unanimously to approve having the city engineer begin preparing plans for the project not to exceed $20,000.

In other business

the council:

• Approved a request from Smith to repair car #332 for $1,231.91,

• Approved a request from Smith to replace the engine on are #343 for $6,000, Approved a request from Inspections Department Director Steve Mitchell to

have a back hoe repaired for a cost not to exceed $1,600, Approved a request from

Fire Chief Larry Horton to pay for leak detection at the fire pumps for $599,

• Approved a request from Parks and Recreation Director Mike Staggs to replace bulbs and fuses, as well as repair the field lights at the park for $3,483.10, Resent a resolution accepting the streets of Creekview subdivision,

• Purchased a new vehicle to replace a truck at the Parks and Recreation Department for $44,338. Meetings are held on the second and fourth Monday of every month at 6 p.m. at Moody City Hall on 670 Park Ave.

One of the main items on the agenda involved filling the empty seat on the City Council, which was declared open after the April 17 resignation of Dusty Stinson, who also served as Mayor pro tempore.

Each applicant for the position in attendance at the meeting was given a few minutes to speak. After hearing a brief talk from some of the applicants for the position,

Hopkins is a long-term resident of Argo who currently works as the Director of Parks and Recreation for the City of Springville. He also serves as Senior Pastor at Good Samaritan Baptist Church in Birmingham.

“Currently, I oversee over a $1.3 million budget with the city of Springville for the parks and recreation department,” Hopkins said. “I also oversee over a $100,000 per

Hopkins is a 2019 graduate of Leadership St. Clair County. He lives in the Mountain Oaks subdivision.

“Anytime I can do anything to support and build St. Clair County, that’s my heart,” he said. “I also love the community of Argo and Springville. We share a lot of the same schools and we share a lot of the same parks and sports systems, but my hometown is Argo.”

Hopkins said Argo is a

great community and one of the safest communities in the state. He also made the point that Argo needs to focus on smart growth. “The question is, how do we protect this community while also preparing for the future in a wise way?”

In other business, the Council approved a resolution authorizing the firm Goodwin Mills Cawood to begin the engineering studies on the turn lane from US Hwy 11 and County Rd. 6, also known as Argo Margaret Road.

The Council also authorized the Argo Police Department to establish a bank account to hold funds confiscated during police business.

City Clerk Tiffany Westbrook turned in her resignation effective Friday, June 2.

The Council voted to place Court Clerk Casey Bethune in her position on the Planning and Zoning board.

The next meeting of the Argo council is scheduled for June 12, at 5 p.m. A second public hearing on zoning is planned for June 20.

Design by Jessica Kennedy for Leeds Main Street

Left to right: Moody Mayor Joe Lee, Talan Smith and Reece Smith.

Rick and Heather Hopkins (Credit: goodsamaritanbaptist.com)

Irondale

From front page

rezoning plan Tuesday night. During the public comment portion of Irondale’s regular city council meeting, the City Council heard from residents in favor of and opposed to a plan to rezone property at 5238 Amber Hills Road, Irondale, Alabama 35210, from R-2 residential to an I-1 Light Industrial District.

The plan would allow for the relocation of B&D Electric Motor from its current location on 4th Avenue South in downtown Birmingham to a new building on Amber Hills.

Speakers in favor of the plan included several members of the Jones family – Barry, Craig, and Wesley Jones – owners of the property B&D Electric Motor and citizens of Irondale residing on Monroe Drive. Despite an allocation of two-minutes to address the council, each person kept his comments brief stating their name and address – all on Monroe Drive – and then stating they are for the rezoning.

In response, almost a doz-

Pinson

From front page tion for the annual Butterbean Festival.

The grant application was given by the Alabama Tourism Department in the amount of $6,500.

“The Alabama Tourism Department likes to promote things in Alabama,” said Mayor Pro Tem Robbie Roberts, “so it’s nice to see them promoting our Butterbean Festival this year. So we’ll certainly be using that to get the word out there more about activities that will be taking place here this October.”

The next Butterbean Festival is scheduled for Oct. 6 and 7. Additional information can be seen on the website. Afterwards Roberts announced that recycling in the

en residents of Amber Hills spoke in opposition to the proposal, voicing their concerns about the potential reduction in property values, environmental impact, and overall disruption to their way of life.

Two citizens opposed to the proposal, Wayne Fleming and Mary Sherer, came with prepared presentations to make their case.

“In the former council meeting on this issue, I presented details on how the Blueprint Irondale on both current and future use maps

city will be temporarily suspended due to the processing plant in Birmingham experiencing a fire that has complicated operations. He advised the public to check the city’s Facebook page for updates.

In reports from council members, Councilwoman Clinteshia Irvin said that Movies in the Park was upcoming, with dates and times to be posted on social media and the Parks and Recreation Department page. The first will be May 26, and the next will be June 9. These will be shown at the Bicentennial Park.

Councilman John Churchwell reminded the public that a cleanup of Red Hill Cemetery will be performed by the National Society of the American Revolution on Saturday, May 20, at 9 a.m.

showed the use of the property as residential,” said Fleming, referring to the City of Irondale’s growth and infrastructure plan released in 2021. “Also, I again quote the blueprint, ‘It is not the intent of the plan to place existing usage in a situation where their value or the quality of life of residents is adversely affected.’”

“In addition, I recall efforts in another council meeting that emphasized the blueprint’s intention to avoid ‘spot zoning,’” added Fleming. “Approval of this proposal

does not appear to follow that precedent.”

Sherer, who has a background in banking and finance, specifically mergers and acquisitions, addressed the council, questioning whether B&D Motors would be properly zoned on Amber Hills Road. Additionally, Sherer brought to the council’s attention alleged citations from the Birmingham Fire Department and the Birmingham Water Works Board for violations regarding the improper handling of hazardous and flammable material.

Sherer spent the remainder of her time displaying photos of B&D’s current facility in Birmingham with debris, uncovered oil receptacles and other hazards. She also pointed out that Amber Hills is located downhill from B&D’s property and the possibility of runoff from the business as well as the fact that residents would be forced to view the backside of the building from their homes.

“B&D is a good company, but we don’t agree that anything industrial should be put

up on the hill above us,” said Sherer after the conclusion of the meeting. “It’s got hazardous, flammable and explosive material inside. I’m not saying that it’s not properly stored and properly hauled. Nevertheless, there is a chance that it could ignite, that it could spill, and it’s up the hill, they’re on septic tank, so it’s coming down the hill at us.”

The Irondale City Council approved the reading of the resolution and is scheduled to vote on the proposal in the next meeting on Tuesday, May 30. The proposal would allow B&D Electric Motors to build a new facility on Amber Hills Road with customer access from Alton Road. The discussion overshadowed what was a fairly upbeat meeting in which Irondale

Mayor James Stewart recognized three area students, Dian Valles Rio, Khloe Murray and Janry Barajas, who took part in the Mayor For A Day program. On Tuesday, May 16, the three students had the opportunity to shadow Mayor Stewart as he visited several city facilities, including the

police station, fire station and the senior center.

Additionally, the City Council approved the donation of a 1998 Freightliner fire engine to the Dancy-Cochran Volunteer Fire Department, which recently lost its building and vehicles in a fire.

In other news:

The City Council approved donations to Jefferson County Schools in Irondale including:

– $44,500 to Shades Valley High School for educational purposes – $19,500 to Irondale Middle School for educational purposes. – $19,000 to Irondale Community School for educational purposes. (City) – $17,000 to Grantswood Community School for educational purposes. (City) – $14,480 to the Jefferson County International Baccalaureate School

The City Council approved service agreements with the Cahaba River Society, Inc. in the amount of $25,000 and Ruffner Mountain Nature Coalition, Inc. in the amount of $50,000.

that he said the council discussed several months ago. He asked if there were updates on its progress, to which Cochran and Roberts replied that it will be addressed in the future.

In other business, the council:

Granted $6,800 to the Pinson Valley High School Band to upgrade the ventilation system at the concession stand and:

Councilwoman Glenda Kirkland said that the first Trade Day is June 3, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., on Main Street.

Library Director Allison Scanlan reported that the library will be closed on May 22 and 23 due to construction

at the Rock School Center. She said that the Summer Reading kickoff event is upcoming on June 3, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

During public comments, James Hyche briefly addressed transport for the

disabled at Trade Days with a statement, but Mayor Joe Cochran did not allow him to read further, stating that Hyche had already spoken on this multiple times before. Afterwards, Wayne Hyche spoke on a ramp near city hall

• Approved $3,658.80 for the purchase of furniture at the assistant clerk’s office. Pinson City Council meets on the first and third Thursdays of every month at City Hall on 4410 Main Street. Live-streamed meetings can be seen on the city’s Facebook page.

Mayor Joe Cochran and Mayor Pro-Tem Robbie Roberts. (Photo by Nathan Prewett)

Mary Sherer addresses the Irondale City Council (Photo by Loyd McIntosh)

Paul DeMarco: Failures in Washington DC force state lawmakers to take up national issues

By Paul DeMarco

There is no question Washington DC is broken. The far left has hijacked the federal government and the policies to put United States citizens first has fallen to the wayside.

So it is now up to the states to pass legislation to protect Americans, and Alabama is no different. Thus, we are now seeing bills being pursued in Montgomery that address national issues. There have been issues such as abortion and immigration that were

By Phil Williams, 1819 News

Commentary

“Diversity, equity, and inclusion” (DEI) are some of the most overused words in the English language of late. Ostensibly the DEI movement is designed to ensure and promote access for everyone to everything. But reading between the lines shows that is not at all what is happening.

Listen closely and you will quickly realize that DEI efforts are designed to promote special agendas, provide special access, and give special protections to a select few.

But what would progressive left DEI promoters say if they knew one of their own heroes did not agree?

In the mid-1970s, legal arguments regarding the Equal Rights Amendment were ongoing. One of the

taken up by members of the Alabama House of Representatives and Senate. Yet, there are more and more federal issues that state legislators feel the necessity to address at the statehouse to protect their citizens.

Legislation that prohibits China, and other countries of particular concern from purchasing property in the state recently won approval in an Alabama Senate Committee this past week. Another bill passed the full Alabama Senate that would prohibit the

state from contracting with entities that restrict business with gun manufacturers, fossil fuel producers and other issues opposed by progressives.

There are additional bills targeting “woke” politics that have also passed the Alabama Legislature as well, including ensuring protecting women’s sports and children from being exposed to age inappropriate books. In the past, these are issues folks could not have ever imagined would have to be taken up by our lawmakers.

The moral bankruptcy in our nation’s capital has forced national issues to the states and voters support these issues being taken up since there is no effort to find solutions in Washington DC. Look for this trend to continue as the Biden White House fails to prioritize the interests of our Nation and puts politics first.

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

Phil Williams: Special protection

voices was a rising legal star from Columbia Law School who questioned the acceptability of introducing men into women’s spaces. In a “Washington Post” opinion piece, that left-leaning professor and volunteer ACLU lawyer opined, “Separate places to disrobe, sleep, perform personal bodily functions are permitted, in some situations required, by regard for individual privacy.”

The author went on to say, “Individual privacy, a right of constitutional dimension, is appropriately harmonized with the equality principle.”

The author promoting this concept – that men and women having a right to privacy and security is not antithetical to constitutional principles – was none other than the “Notorious RBG,” liberal feminist icon Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg.

I wonder how liberals feel

about their hero on this topic now?

This past week, the “What Is a Woman Act” was considered in a public hearing at the Alabama Statehouse. The bill is designed to codify gender terms, and to address the rights of Alabamians to not have their privacy infringed by those who believe how they identify gives special protections to commit such infringements.

Sponsored by conservative freshman legislator State Rep. Susan Dubose (R – Hoover), the bill attracted an unusual amount of attention. Dubose referenced Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson’s refusal to define a woman in recent U.S. Supreme Court confirmation hearings, leading Dubose to rightfully believe that states should begin embedding clear definitions of gender into state law to ensure that alternative defi-

nitions are not thrust upon us later.

Opposing views were read from the very latest of woke ideological glossaries. Belle Moyers, an opposition speaker identified as a “transgender biologist,” claimed, “This bill uses an arbitrary aspect of a person’s biology to regulate social spaces. It’s the government sticking its nose into all of our lives to make them more dangerous and frankly more annoying.”

A word salad that states the true goals of DEI out loud.

Forget what Ginsberg said in the 1970s, or what science has said for millennia. Forget that the laws of the land favor women having a right to their privacy and a reasonable sense of security. Forget that they favor a child’s protection from perpetrators, or equal opportunity for women to engage in sports and busi-

ness on a fair and even playing field.

No, transgender biologist Moyers just word-vomited the actual DEI agenda in a statehouse committee this week; namely, that science is notional, your feelings mean nothing, and progressive liberals intend to insert themselves into every place they feel like going, and you’re just going to have to learn to live with that because they deserve special protections.

DEI advocates want “special protection” from the law. A get-out-of-jail-free-card to do whatever they please, whenever they please, however they please and to whomever they please.

Federal law under Title IX, among other things, prevents males from getting an edge over women in sports. Boys generally do not compete against girls … unless they’re boys claiming to be girls, in which case they get special protection from the law.

The laws of every state prevent adults from exposing themselves to children as a criminal act … unless you are a man who believes he is a woman or a woman who believes she is a man, in which case you get special protection under the law to expose yourself in public locker rooms.

Laws exist at state and federal levels to ensure that women are treated equally for campus experiences like scholarships for women’s

sports, admission to a sorority, and equal rights to participate in campus activities … but if you are a man claiming to be a woman, you can gain access that no man who knows he is a man would ever get away with. Common sense is not always common. But it seems we have a chance to codify common sense with the “What Is a Woman Act.” Men are men and women are women. It is definable. It is not fluid or flexible or fragile. It is fact.

No amount of word salad protestations by transgender biologists will ever change the fact that there are only two sexes. Societal laws, mores and norms predicated on the protection of one from the other are there for good reason. The only way that reality breaks down is if we give in and allow special protections for a few over the many.

Even Ruth Bader Ginsberg knew that separate space for actual men and women is harmonized with equal protection, not with special protection.

To contact Phil or request him for a speaking engagement, go to www.rightsideradio.org. The views and opinions expressed here are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the policy or position of 1819 News. To comment, please send an email with your name and contact information to Commentary@1819News.com.

DOCKERY HOLDINGS

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

Phil Williams is Policy Director for the Alabama Policy Institute.

l ifes T yle

My Life As A Hobby: Two-Time Tony –A Second Chance

By Joe Hobby

I was going through some things in my closet when he surprised me. There, smack dab in the middle of a Nike shoebox he lay. Like me, he has a few miles on him. That’s no surprise; we grew up together. Most of his face is worn. His ears are frazzled. The stripes on his body are just about gone; I loved those off of him years ago. Most kids had a Teddy bear. Not me. I had a tiger. Tony the Tiger.

Tony was a much a part of my early childhood as Gerber baby food. He went everywhere with me. Tony slept with me, ate meals with me, even accompanied Mom and me when we picked up Dad from work. (Yep, we only had one car).

Tony was involved with my entire family. I fondly remember my older sister playing games with me that involved Tony and my other beloved stuffed animal, Susie the cat. All was well in my young world.

Then I got older. Tony was still a part of my life, but he wasn’t the center of my universe any more. Television, climbing trees, playing army, and reading comic books began to crowd Tony Time out. Finally, one day my mom cut the ultimate umbilical cord; she told me it was time for me to stop sleeping with Tony.

It was terrible, but inevitable. I had officially outgrown Tony.

Soon, Tony and Susie were unceremoniously placed on a shelf in my closet. That was certainly not the fate my one-time besties deserved. It’s sad, really. All of those childhood memories just sitting up there as the years went by.

I’m still surprised that Tony and Susie made it through all of my moves. They always managed to show up, regardless of the apartment or home I was in at the time. That’s because no one would ever think of sending them to a thrift store, or God forbid, the trash.

When I finally had children, there was no chance to share my old stuffed animals with them. Each one of my boys had a bear they were attached to. Brownie, Brown Bear, and Teddy became their Tony. Besides, who would want an old beat-up tiger? (There is an Auburn joke in there, but I’ll take the high road).

Finally, years passed, and our family was blessed

Savvy Senior: Toenail Trimming Tips for Seniors

By Jim Miller

Dear

Savvy Senior,

Can you recommend some good toenail clipping solutions for seniors? My toenails have gotten increasingly thick since I’ve gotten older and have become very difficult for me to reach down and cut.

Almost 80

cut them every six to eight weeks.

When cutting nails, take care not to cut too far down. Overaggressive trimming and cutting the toenails too short can lead to ingrown toenails. Podiatrists typically recommend leaving a very small bit (about 1/32 inch) of nail past the nail bed when trimming.

clipper much easier to use for anyone with arthritis or mobility issues, since they have more control and an added range they can reach.

with our first grandchild, Rilynne. A little girl at last! By the time she was two years old, we were tighter than yoga pants on a Sumo wrestler.

Rilynne made frequent stops at our house. It seemed like every time she came over, she wanted to play in my closet. Since it was small and cozy, it became her favorite spot. We would always dump out a large jar of my spare change on the floor and pretend it was a treasure chest we just discovered.

One day when we were in the closet playing, Rilynne glanced up, and saw an old, stuffed animal that seemed to be peeking down at her.

“What’s that, Granddaddy?”, she asked. I stood up and picked him off the shelf.

“This,” I said proudly, “is Tony. When I was a little boy, he was my Bear Bear.”

“Ohhh!”

Bear Bear is Rilynne’s indispensable stuffed animal. So, she completely understood Tony’s importance to me.

“Can I see him?”

“Sure.”

She cuddled Tony to her face.

“Can I have him?”, she asked.

I expected that question. Rilynne is a stuffed animal junkie. She has about 75,000 of them in her bedroom. I’ve been there –Toys R Us would be envi-

ous. I couldn’t in good faith just give away Tony to be a part of a collection. What to do?

Amazingly, I came up with a compromise that might work.

“I’ll tell you what, honey. Every time you come over you can have Tony, but we have to put him back in the closet when you leave. And when you get older, I’ll give you Tony and Susie to have all the time. How about that?

“Okay.”

That was way too easy. And it was self-serving. What I didn’t tell her was that I wanted her to have my stuffed animals so years from now she would think of me after I’m gone.

Now when Rilynne comes to our house, she heads straight to my closet and picks Tony off the shelf. Until she goes home, he almost holds equal status with Bear Bear.

But alas, that window is closing. Rilynne is already developing other interests that will replace her stuffed animals. Once again, Tony’s time will be done. All too soon, he and Susie will return to the closet, now stuffed with even more memories. Just the thought of it fills me with melancholy. Then, I remember that I have two other granddaughters, one that’s 3 years old, and a another who’s 24 months.

Two-Time Tony’s not done yet.

Dear Almost, Trimming your toenails is a task that most people don’t think much about, but as we get older it can become very challenging. For many older adults, like yourself, toenails can become thicker and harder to cut, and reduced flexibility can make it more difficult to even get into the right position to cut them. Fortunately, there are solutions available that can make this job a little easier.

One of the simplest tricks for cutting thick toenails is to simply take a bath or shower, or soak your feet in warm water, prior to cutting them. The water helps soften them for easier cutting. There are also toenail softening creams you can buy, like “Miracle of Aloe Toenail Soft” and “Barielle Toenail Softening Cream,” that temporarily softens thick, hard nails. Just rub it into your toenails at bedtime and in the morning, they’ll be easier to cut and file.

Most people’s toenails grow about 1/16 inch per month, so it’s appropriate to

You may also want to avoid a rounded cut. It’s best to cut the nails fairly straight across, ensuring that the corners of the nail do not cut into the skin folds of the toe. And use an emery board to smooth the jagged edges and corners that can snag and potentially tear the nail as it grows.

Top Toenail Clippers

There are a number of medical-grade or specialty toenail clippers recommended by professionals for older adults.

For thick nails the “New Huing Podiatrist Toenail Clippers” is a top option. This clipper has a sharp, curved blade that easily cuts through any toenail, no matter how hard or thick it has gotten, and a nonslip, cushion grip that allows for comfortable clipping.

For those with limited mobility, check out the “Clipperpro Omega Select Toenail Clipper,” which has a long plastic grip that’s much larger than that of a standard set of nail clippers and a blade head that swivels 180 degrees. Both of those features make this

And for people who have a hard time bending over, there are long handled toenail clippers like the “DriFeez Long Handle Toenail Clippers” which come in four sizes – 20, 24, 28 and 32 inches long. It also has a heavy-duty clipper with a 1/8-inch-wide jaw opening designed to cut thick toenails.

All of these clippers are available online at sites like Amazon.com or Walmart. com at prices ranging between $10 and $40.

Toenail Trimming Services

If you get to the point that you can’t, or would rather not cut your own toenails, a podiatrist can provide both foot and toenail care. But be aware that routine foot care is not covered by Medicare unless you have an underlying condition or injury that requires a professional to tend to your feet.

If you are generally in good health, regular pedicures at a nail salon is good option for getting your toenails cut and is much cheaper than visiting a podiatrist.

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

Young Joe Hobby with Tony Rilynne with Tony

o u T doors

Coonhoun Cabin attracts Southern Heritage Show to Alabama

By David Rainer Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources

Down a winding, treelined road on the outskirts of Clanton, Alabama, is a destination that attracts a select group of individuals and their canine companions. It’s the Coonhound Cabin, which sits on 85 acres and provided the perfect site for this past weekend’s AKC (American Kennel Club) Southern Heritage Hunt and Show for coonhounds.

Danielle Kunz and her husband, Kenny, purchased the property in 2018 and soon started to share their passion for the coonhound breeds.

“We started three years ago hosting coonhound events and a lot of kids’ events because this is something kids just don’t do anymore, hunt with coonhounds,” Danielle said. “We live in Hoover, and we love bringing the city kids down here to hunt at night. They always have a good time. They said they didn’t know you could walk around in the Alabama woods at night and not be afraid.

“We have had the Alabama State Coonhunters Association (ASCA) Youth State Championship two years in a row. We have sponsors who donate everything from hats, shirts, lights, boots and waders. If the kids come and don’t have a coonhound, we let them borrow one of ours. We have members who will take the kids out on a cast, and we crown an overall youth state champion.”

Several of those youth hunt participants have em-

braced the sport and have their own coonhounds.

Coonhound Cabin has hosted several UKC (United Kennel Club) and NKC (National Kennel Club) events, but last weekend’s hunt and show is the first AKC event held on the property. Danielle said they are trying to attract the youth and women’s world hunts to Clanton.

Danielle has been outdoors oriented all her life, hunting with her dad, Danny Fields, and five uncles near her hometown of Oak Grove, southeast of Birmingham.

“Down at Oak Grove on Toadvine Road, you hunt and you fish with your daddy and

his brothers,” she said. “We always had hunting dogs. We either had coonhounds, Walker-blue tick mixes, and squirrel dogs, feist dogs. We have a hunting club in Epps, Alabama. He would carry me on his hip to the treestand in the mornings, sometimes still in my pajamas. I’ve always been involved with outside and hunting.

“I waited until my son was 10 and daughter was 14 before we got our first hound, a blue tick named Harley.”

Danielle later added Jewel, a redbone, to their kennels. Harley has since earned Grand Champion on the bench show, while Jewel is a bench and

Keeping You Healthy All Summer Long

field trial champion. Danielle hired Kayla Cooper of Warrior River Kennels to perform obedience training with Harley, and a friendship developed.

“Kayla is an incredible trainer,” Danielle said. “Training a hound is not easy, so she has helped me an enormous amount.”

Cooper is also secretary/ treasurer of the ASCA, one of the sponsors of the Southern Heritage event, which was held outside of Georgia for the first time in its 10-year history.

“Our association was created to represent the small game hunters in the state, particularly the raccoon hunters, and to preserve the heritage of coon hunting in the state and coonhound breeds that we have,” Cooper said. “Every dog is created for a purpose. These dogs were selectively bred for hundreds of generations to actively pursue a raccoon. So, it is very important to us that these dogs continue to do what they were bred to do, which is something we don’t get to see a lot anymore.

“The majority of Labradors are not duck dogs anymore. They are family pets. They make great family pets. You don’t see Dalmatians trotting under coaches. You don’t see terriers out riding on farms. But our coonhounds get to do what they were bred for, so it’s really important for us to preserve that.”

Cooper said of the seven

coonhound breeds, the treeing Walker is the most common by a wide margin. Other coonhound breeds include the black and tan, bluetick, redbone, English coonhounds (redticks), leopard and Plott hounds. All breeds were represented at the Southern Heritage event.

“The Plott hound is the only breed not derived from fox hounds,” said Cooper, whose redbone, Chaos, scored an award of merit at the 2019 Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. “The Plotts are a German breed. They came over with the von Plott family to North Carolina.”

During last weekend’s event, night hunts were held on Friday and Saturday at nearby properties, which meant the handlers were up until the wee hours of the morning. The hounds are scored on finding the trail, barking and treeing. If the hunters spot the raccoon, the hounds are awarded a plus.

The raccoon is left unharmed to be treed another night. The Southern Heritage event had a bench show, field trials and water race. A scented raccoon hide was dragged through the woods and hung in a large oak. The coonhounds were released, and points were awarded for the first dog to cross the line at the tree and the first to bark after crossing the line. A water race followed where four dogs were placed in boxes on the edge of Coonhound Cabin’s 2.5-acre lake. The scented raccoon skin was then tied to a cable that was pulled across the lake about 6 or so feet above the water line. The first dog to splash and swim across the pond to the tree receives the most points. If the dogs do not swim, no points are awarded.

“I’ve been to several water races, and we designed our race to go across the middle of the lake,” Danielle said.

“When the dogs come out of the boxes, they’ll try to outsmart the system. If you give them bank, they will run around the bank, and they are struck if they do that. We wanted to make it so that it was shorter to just go straight across instead of trying to go around.”

Cooper hopes the Southern Heritage Hunt and Show will advance the ASCA’s mission to highlight the coonhound breed and gain the interest of the younger generations. Visit alabamastatecoonhu.wixsite. com/mysite to learn more about the ASCA or go to the association’s Facebook page.

“What our association really focuses on is spotlighting the youth,” she said. “You hear so many people say, ‘My grandfather used to coonhunt’ or ‘My dad used to coonhunt.’ Every year less and less hunting licenses are sold in Alabama. It’s definitely about the breeds we’re so passionate about and the sport we’re so passionate about, but it’s also about getting kids involved so there is another generation to take this on.”

Danielle added, “It’s just a lot of fun to work with the dogs. Hounds make great pets, too, but to see them enjoy doing what they were bred to do, it’s so much fun, and that’s what we try to show the kids.”

Three of the coonhounds at the Southern Heritage Hunt and Show at the Coonhound Cabin were, from left, Danielle Kunz's bluetick, Kayla Cooper's redbone and Madison Fancher's black and tan. (Credit: David Rainer)

Rocket, a treeing Walker, tries to climb the big oak to reach the scented raccoon hide during the field trials. (Credit: David Rainer)

Bluetick, Harley, splashes across the lake at Coonhound Cabin during the water race. (Credit: David Rainer)

c alendar

2023 Trussville Beautification

Award Contest

April 24 @ 8:00 amJune 5 @ 5:00 pm

is working on, and get help if you are stuck. Please join us - newcomers are welcome!

Join our Facebook group:

YARN MANGLERS ANONYMOUS

Ferus Presents: Heart of Atlanta May 27 @ 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Trussville Entertainment District, 101 Beech Street Trussville, AL 35173 United States

This year’s annual Beautification Awards Contest will be held Monday, June 5, with a rain-day of Monday, June 12, 2023. Categories are: Best Use of Color, Best Home Landscape Design, Best Home Overall, Best Business Overall, and Best Turf.

Nomination forms will be available from May 1-31, at Trussville City Hall, Trussville Public Library and the Trussville Chamber of Commerce. Nominations can also be submitted online at https:// trussville.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/2023-Beautification-Nomination-Form-Fillable.pdf.

Summer Volunteer Training

Wednesday, May 24: 10:00am - 11:00am

Trussville - Parkway Room

AGE GROUP: TEEN (6TH12TH GRADE)

EVENT TYPE: TEEN PROGRAM, SUMMER READING

Heart of Atlanta is the Definitive Heart Tribute Band. Heart of Atlanta ardently reproduces the timeless and influential music of Rock & Roll Hall of Famers – Heart. Performing their radio hits, hidden studio, live gems, and the Zeppelin covers that brought Robert Plant to tears, the band encompasses all the elements for the complete Heart experience. From the exacting musical re-creation to the powerful stage show, Heart of Atlanta will have you rockin’ for more.

Red Cross Blood Drive

Tuesday, May 30: 1:00pm - 6:00pm

Trussville - LBK Auditorium

AGE GROUP: TEEN (6TH - 12TH GRADE) ADULT (AGES 18+)

EVENT TYPE: TEEN PROGRAM, ADULT PROGRAM

more information and to sign up, go to Pattis Flea Market & Consignment Shop located at 4281 Main St., Pinson AL Open 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Saturday. (Please no phone calls or texts)

#SquadGoals

Summer Kick-Off!

June 3 @ 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm

Pinson Public Library (RSMC), 4509 Pinson Boulevard Pinson, AL 35126 United States

(All ages)

Pinson Public Library’s Summer Reading Program is here! Join the #SocksSquad by registering for our Summer Reading Program online (info coming soon).

Celebrate the beginning of summer on Saturday, June 3rd from 1 to 3 PM. Enjoy sports-themed inflatable fun, team activities with friends, yummy concession food, & more! Commander, the mascot for Birmingham Squadron, will be available to meet & take photos from 1 to 2 PM. More information coming soon!

Animal Tales:

Animal Alliances

June 5 @ 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Pinson Public Library (RSMC), 4509 Pinson Boulevard Pinson, AL 35126 United States

Call (205) 533-8664

Summer Reading ‘23 is nearly upon us and the library needs volunteers! Summer is our busiest time and there are plenty of options for volunteering. However, space is limited and based on a first come first serve basis. Volunteers will primarily be helping families check in their summer reading time and will work heavily on a computer. This is a great volunteer opportunity for teens that work well with the public and work well without tons of supervision.

If you are interested in volunteering at the Trussville Library during the 2023 Summer Reading Program please attend one of Summer Reading Volunteer training days. Please note you only need to attend one of the training days. Teen volunteers must be going into at least the 8th grade in the fall in order to volunteer.

Yarn Manglers (Knit & Crochet Group)

Thursday, May 25: 2:00pm - 4:00pm

Trussville - Cahaba Room

AGE GROUP: ADULT (AGES 18+)

EVENT TYPE: DROP-IN, CRAFT

Every unit we donate at our blood drive can help save up to three lives.

If you are able, please consider donating with us!

Make your appointment here! https://www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/drive-results?zipSponsor=TrussvilleLib

Teens can give at the age of 16 with a parental consent form, 17 with out a consent form. For more information about teen donation: https:// www.redcrossblood.org/donate-blood/how-to-donate/ info-for-student-donors.html.

If you have never donated before and are nervous to try it we totally understand. Some answers to concerns may be found here: https://www.redcrossblood.org/donate-blood/ how-to-donate/common-concerns.html

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TWO BURIAL PLOTS at Jefferson Memorial Gardens. Located in the shady and serene center of the cemetery in the Garden of Everlasting Life away from busy traffic noise. Plot 54C, spaces 3 and 4. $4,300 each, seller is responsible for transfer fee. Call 251-404-9321.

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Knit & crochet meetup group

(aka The Yarn Manglers).

Bring any projects you are working on; join us for fellowship and creativity. This is a great way to check in, catch up, see what everyone

Pinson Trade Days

June 3 @ 9:00 am - 2:00 pm Main Street Pinson, 4281 Main St Pinson, AL 35126 United States

Pinson Trade Days will be held on Main Street in Pinson on Saturday, June 3, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sign up now for a free space! For

(All ages)

Monday, June 5th at 4 PM

Animals Tales is back to present “Animal Alliances”. Learn how different animals work together in nature & meet some awesome animals!

Take-Home Tuesdays:

Shadow Puppets

June 6 @ 9:00 am - 6:00 pm

Pinson Public Library (RSMC), 4509 Pinson Boulevard Pinson, AL 35126 United States

(All ages)

Tuesday, June 6th at 9 AM

The City of Argo is currently taking applications for the City Clerk position. The job description and employment application can be found on our website at cityofargo.org. All applications can be turned in to City Hall, Monday - Friday from 8:00 A.M. - 4:00 P.M. or emailed to city.argo@gmail.com Please include a resume.

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o bi T uary

Arthur Daniel Higdon, Jr.

november 11, 1971 — may 11, 2023

Arthur Daniel Higdon Jr., joined the Lord in eternal peace and glory on May 11, 2023.

Dan, the man, the myth, the legend was born on November 11, 1971 and grew up in Springville, AL. He was an extraordinarily hard worker and a talented HVAC specialist.

Dan’s work was also his ministry and after working long hours he was often found spending evenings and weekends helping family, friends, neighbors and strangers by fixing their air conditioning to keep folks from suffering in the Alabama heat.

Dan was loved by all who were blessed to know him. His family hopes he is deep sea fishing and drinking Milo’s tea in Heaven with his dad, Daniel Sr. Dan is survived by his daughters Kaylee and Emily Higdon, mother Kathy Stallings, sister & brother-inlaw Leah & Patrick Odeneal, extended family and many friends. We will all miss his fun-loving humor, his joy, and his loyal love. Some of us will miss his karaoke singing.

Scott Patterson

june 5, 1968 — may 11, 2023

Scott Keith Patterson, age 54, passed away on May 11, 2023, surrounded by his loved ones. Scott was born on June 5, 1968, to Erskine Ramsay Patterson and Gladys Hite Patterson and grew up in Birmingham, Alabama. He was a cherished member of his community and touched the lives of everyone who knew him.

He was a cherished brother to Cynthia "Cindy" Patterson Johnson and Lisa Patterson Langer Calvert (with whom he lived following their mother's death). His passing leaves a void in their lives that can never be filled, but they take comfort in knowing that he is now at peace and reunited with their mama.

He is survived by his sisters, Cindy and Lisa (Dennis), and his nephews and nieces: Wade Langer, Garrett Langer (Abbey), Kendall Johnson, Kaley Johnson, and Taylor Johnson; step-nephew and nieces: Matthew Calvert (Amanda, son Easton), Ashley Calvert Montgomery (her children Kathryn, Dylon, Alyssa), Meagan Calvert Carter( Alan, daughter Collins) and Lauren Calvert Simpson (Logan, children: Lucy, Rhett, Riggs and their Heavenly daughter Evie). His legacy is also continued through Jack and Louise Hoffman, who shared a near familial bond with Scott and Gladys for over 50 years.

Scott lived his life to the fullest and never let his disabilities hold him back. He was born with Down's Syndrome, but that never stopped him from pursuing his passions and achieving his goals. He attended and graduated from Birmingham City Schools. Upon graduation, he continued his learning at the Cerebral Palsy Center, leading him to a job with Pizza Hut. One of his proudest accomplishments, however, was his participation in the Special Olympics, where he competed in various sports and made many lifelong friends.

Though a man of few words, Scott's love for family was evident. He was devoted to his family, whom he loved with all his heart (especially during meals with them). Scott especially loved beach trips, birthdays, ice cream, Little Debbie snack cakes, holidays, riding in a new truck, his own cheese dip at a Mexican restaurant, any time he was with family and all things Auburn!

Scott's legacy will live on through the memories he left behind. He showed us all what it means to live life with joy, courage, and determination, and his spirit will continue to inspire us for years to come.

A celebration of Scott's life will be held on May 16, 2023, at noon (visitation preceding) at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home in Trussville, Alabama. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Scott's memory to the Special Olympics or to UAB Palliative Care.

Rest in peace, dear Scott. You will be forever missed and never forgotten.

Carolyn Mark

november 17, 1932 — may 13, 2023

Carolyn Jean Mark, age 90, of Birmingham, Alabama passed away on May 13, 2023.

She was a graduate of Woodlawn High School. Jean, as she went by, worked for the CIT Group in Birmingham for many years while working her last 10 years at the Birmingham News until she was 75 years old.

She was a wonderful, caring, and loving Christian, mother, daughter, grandmother, sister, and friend that to everyone who knew her would already know. Besides her family the most important thing to her was her faith. She was a long-time member of Huffman United Methodist Church where she was in the United Methodist Women and a Sunday school teacher for a while.

Jean is survived by her son, Ralph A. Mark Ill, his wife Donna J. Mark, brother Richard M. Lee Sr., three grandchildren and several nieces and nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by parents, Horace H. Lee, and Lila Mae Lee. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 17th at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home from 9:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m. with Chapel service to immediately follow. Following the chapel service will be a committal service at Jefferson Memorial's adjoining gardens.

AskEddie

What are the Different Types of Cemeteries?

Religious cemeteries. These cemeteries are owned and operated by a religious group and serve a specific religious community

Public or Municipal cemeteries. In many cities, the city or county typically maintains the cemetery grounds, and burial services are typically performed by a funeral home or outside a cemetery service organization.

Natural cemeteries. These cemeteries typically try to minimize the environmental impact of funerals and burials. They might not have traditional granite headstones or brass markers and may instead use trees or rocks to mark graves.

Garden cemeteries. Like natural cemeteries, garden cemeteries often use benches, flowers, and trees to establish a park-like atmosphere. These cemeteries are designed with pathways and landscaped to feel like a public park.

Memorial parks. Memorial parks are typically designed with grass markers - gravestones that lay flat on the ground rather than tall stone monuments and headstones.

Lawn-Park cemeteries. This type of cemetery combines a garden cemetery and a memorial park. A lawn-park cemetery typically has areas for larger monuments and space for grass markers.

Monumental cemeteries. By contrast, monumental cemeteries are filled with large marble or granite monuments in lieu of more standard headstones and grave markers.

Veteran cemeteries. Those who are honorably discharged from military service have the option of being buried in these cemeteries.

Green cemeteries. In green cemeteries, the deceased is buried in a way that minimizes environmental impact. Typically the deceased are buried without the use of embalming chemicals and many green cemeteries require the use of biodegradable caskets.

Jefferson Memorial

Donald Allen Vinson

april 18, 1948 — may 14, 2023

Donald Allen Vinson, age 75, of Vincent, AL passed away on May 14, 2023. He was born to Joseph Henry Vinson and Rachel Mandy Wilson Vinson on April 18, 1948 in Birmingham, AL. Donald had Bachelor of Science and served as a computer programmer for several years before retiring.

He was preceded in death by his parents; four sisters, Betty Joyce Vinson, Dorothy Bentley, Linda Stolzman, Mary Ann Tillery, Edna Roberts, and Sue Vernon; two brothers, Raymond Vinson and James Vinson.

He is survived by his brother Joseph Vinson; his four nieces, Denise, Joyce, Sonya, and Lissa; his eight nephews, Dean, Dewayne, Kevin, David, Mike, Ricky, Donald, and Johnny; he also leaves behind numerous great nieces and nephews. The memorial service is pending at this time.

Beverly Lewis

november 26, 1927 — may 15, 2023

LEWIS, BEVERLY DONALSON was born November 26th, 1927, in Birmingham, AL, to Cora Blanche (née Morris) and Edward Earl Wheeler. Later, Major General John Munnerlyn Donalson adopted Beverly. Beverly died on May 15th, 2023, in Birmingham, AL, of natural causes.

Beverly attended Ramsey High School in Birmingham before graduating from Woodlawn High School, Birmingham, AL, in 1944. After War II, she met and was engaged by Donald (Don) Clark Lewis, SR of Perrysville, OH. They were married on August 20th, 1949, until Don’s death in July 2012 (63 Years). She attended Howard College (Samford University, Birmingham, AL) and later at Roanoke College (VA), where she majored in Classics while caring for her three young children. She loved books and Classical opera, art, symphony, and ballet and taught this love to her children.

Beverly had a lifelong calling of “doing for others.” In High School, she was a “Lieutenant” in the Woodlawn ROTC Auxiliary, volunteering to support the families of deployed WWII service personnel, support our War effort, and a letter-writing campaign to our deployed Troops, not receiving any mail. She was outgoing to newcomers, as she had been a newcomer at times. She was devoted to and loved her husband, five children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren – believing all to a be blessing from God. She was a lover of books, and as a school librarian, she found ways to inspire that love in children. She was wise, and her advice was often startlingly incisive. She was kind, and poignantly so to those who could not return her generosity. There are countless situations where she alone, with no fanfare, showed up to help individuals or families with food, groceries, clothes, toys for children, books, Bibles, ears ready to listen to hardship, and money. Some desperately needed her attention, some required things, and all needed a Christ-like Beverly. Some people rescue dogs & cats; Beverly rescued people.

As Newlyweds, Beverly worked as a telephone operator, while Don worked at Hayes International and was instrumental in re-forming the 106 Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron. Don and Beverly valued their many friendships through the 106th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron at Birmingham Air National Guard Fort Sumpter Smith. Don first met Beverly while her father was the Commanding Officer of the Airbase. Eventually, Don transferred to the Ohio National Guard, and the couple moved from Eastlake to Mansfield, Ohio. Don worked for Tappan Corporation and the Ohio Air National Guard. Beverly, trying to help make ends meet, was an enthusiastic employee at Kobacker’s Department Store and THERMODISC in Mansfield, OH. They returned to Birmingham as the Korean War started, and her husband was activated to Sewart Airforce Base in Smyrna, TN, and the couple moved to Murfreesboro, TN. Part of their wonderful life together was providing young recruits with cookouts and social events at their home and encouraging the young men to attend church. After the Korean War, Beverly and Don returned to Birmingham, living at the family home place “Refuge” on Morrow Road near Trussville. Beverly gave birth to Denise, “Lucky,” and Ann over the next seven years. In January 1961, they moved to Salem, Virginia, to begin a career with Roanoke Electric Steel, later Tennessee Forging Steel. Beverly’s father innovated the continuous casting steel-making process, which General Donalson brought back from Europe after the War II. Major Lewis’ unit was activated for The Berlin Crisis in August 1961. Major Lewis missed his lovely wife Beverly and his children so much that on a phone call from his base in Chaumont, France, he asked them to move to France to live. The couple lived from 1961-1962 “on the economy” in Chaumont with their three young children. After the Crisis, they returned to Salem, Virginia, where Mark was born. 1965 the family moved to Harriman, Tennessee, to build a Tennessee Forging Steel Plant. John was born before the company relocated the family. Next, they moved to Newport, Arkansas, to build another Tennessee Forging Steel Mill. In 1972 Beverly’s mother was dying of cancer. General & Mrs. Donalson moved back to “Refuge,” and Beverly, wanting to be near her mother, settled her family in Trussville. Beverly and Don lived happily the rest of their lives in Trussville, with Beverly working at Hewitt Trussville Junior High and Elementary School Libraries from 1983-1996. Don worked for the State of Alabama.

Once Beverly became a mother, she spent significant time staying informed and involved. She was a member of the Trussville Chapter of the Jennie June Croly Study Group, Trussville Fire Department Auxiliary. She was a member of the Daughters of the King. Beverly served twice as Regent of Cahaba Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution. She served as Senior State Chaplain Children of the American Revolutions, President of United Daughters of the Confederacy Chapters: Captain Truss (Trussville) and William Yancy (Birmingham), and an officer in The United Daughters of 1812 Chapter. In 1977, Beverly and other continuing churchmen started St. Bede’s Anglican Church to preserve the faith of God once delivered. She served as a Prefect Sacristan of St. Bede’s on Grants Mill Road in Birmingham for a decade and as a member of The Anglican Church Women.

Her five children survive her: Denise Blanche (née Lewis) Harris, Donald Clark Lewis JR. “Lucky” (Nancy), Elizabeth Ann (née Lewis) Boone, Edward “Mark” Lewis (Mary Bowron “Bee”), and John Munnerlyn Donalson Lewis (Laura). Beverly is the grandmother to fifteen: Alan Lewis (Bethany), John Wiley Boone (Mallory), Andrew Harris (Becca), Katherine (née Harris) Edmondson (Jacob), William Franklin Harris (Brittany), Donald C. Lewis III “Trey” (Leah), Elizabeth (née Boone) Ward (Justin), Emily Boone, John MD Lewis, JR “Jack” (Ashley), Liz Lewis, Jed Lewis, Joe Lewis, Lillian Lewis, Layton Lewis, and Jem Lewis. Beverly was a great-grandmother to eleven: Ryker and Ridge Lewis (Alan), Heidi Evalyn Boone (John Wiley), Cora Belle Harris (Andrew), Emma Katherine, Tate Edwin, and Jacob Sawyer Edmondson (Katie), Scarlett Rose Harris (William), Brinley Lewis (Trey) and Patrick Wiley and Emily Virginia Ward (Elizabeth).

The family wishes to thank the Kirkwood by the River Nursing Home caregivers and nurses on the 1st-floor Skilled Nursing Unit, who gave Beverly the best care possible, and Compassus, wh o provided Hospice Care. Instead of flowers, Beverly asked for memorials to be made to St. Bede’s Anglican Church; 2350 Grants Mill Road; Irondale, AL 35210, the church she and her husband helped to found & construct. The Visitation will be Thursday, 5/18/23, at one P.M. (1:00 PM), followed by the Service at two P.M. (2:00 PM) at Jefferson Memorial Gardens Funeral Home & Cemetery – Trussville.

Maxie Bullard Giles

january 3, 1932 — may 15, 2023

Maxie Bullard Giles, 91, passed away on May 15, 2023, at her home, surround by loved ones as they spoke a prayer over her.

Maxie was a devoted wife, a loving mother, a dependable sister, a fierce friend, and - most of all - a faithful follower of Jesus Christ.

Maxie is survived by Kathleen Giles, daughter-in-law; Richard Giles, grandson (Laura), Cammy Justice, granddaughter (Clint), Angel Burgemeir, grandchild; Jean Wheeler, sister (Marvin); a host of nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly; and her faithful companion, Tippy.

Maxie is preceded in death by Floyd Bullard, father; Agnes Bullard, mother; Alton Giles, husband; Mark Giles, son; Melody Byrom, daughter; Nell Salmon, sister; Karen Mullins, sister; Montez Pettit, sister; Lora Powell, sister; and James Bullard, brother.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, May 20, 2023 from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm with a chapel service to follow at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home. She will be buried at Jefferson Memorial East.

Chester Harris

february 15, 1943 — may 15, 2023

Chester Allen Harris, age 80, of Springville, Al. went home to be with the Lord on Monday, May 15, 2023. He was a beloved husband, father and grandpa to his family. He was also a good friend to all who knew him. He was retired from O'Toole Engineering where he practiced civil engineering for 28 years and from his own business, Harris Surveying & Mapping. He served his country in the U.S.Navy. He served the City of Springville by being on several boards for the city for a number of years. Chester enjoyed working the land, being outside and tending to his property and lake. He loved being with his grandchildren. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Carol Beebe Harris and his two sons, Curtis Wayne Harris (Kimberly) and Craig Delane Harris; and three grandsons, Samuel Christian Harris, Ethan Andrew Harris and Jacob Mathew Harris and many extended family and friends. Visitation will be Friday, May 19, 2023 from 10am until 12pm at Jefferson Memorial followed by a funeral service at 12pm. Burial with military honors will follow at Jefferson Memorial Cemetery with Pastor Mark Machen officiating.

Jack Smith

march 13, 1942 — may 16, 2023

Jack Allan Smith, a beloved family member, retired Navy Veteran, and successful business owner, passed away peacefully on May 16, 2023. Born on March 13, 1942, in Birmingham, AL. Jack Allan Smith led a remarkable life filled with courage, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to his country and community.

After proudly serving in the United States Navy for four years, Jack Allan Smith honorably retired, having made invaluable contributions to the defense of our nation. His time in the Navy instilled in him the values of discipline, integrity, and leadership that would guide him throughout his life.

Following his military service, Jack Allan Smith embarked on a new chapter as an entrepreneur and established a Military Store in Alabama and Colorado. As a business owner, he exemplified resilience, vision, and a strong work ethic. Through his dedication, Jack Allan Smith built a thriving enterprise, earning the respect and admiration of colleagues and customers alike.

Beyond his professional achievements, Jack Allan Smith was a devoted family man, cherishing the time spent with his loved ones. He leaves behind cherished memories and a lasting legacy of love, guidance, and support.

In his leisure time, Jack Allan Smith enjoyed selling and buying on eBay and loved College Football. He had an adventurous spirit, always seeking new experiences and embracing life to the fullest.

Jack Allan Smith will be deeply missed by his loving family, including his wife Carmen Smith, Five children: Laurie, Sherri, Carmen, Bethzy, and Kinue. 7 Grandchildrens: Lauren, Linnea, Angelica, Genesis, Angel, Tatyana and Giana, 5 Great Grandchildren: Riley,

Hewitt Trussville girls win 2023 7A State Softball Championship

By Johnny Sanders Sports Editor

OXFORD – The best teams in the state visited Oxford’s Choccolocco Park this weekend for the Alabama softball state playoffs. Despite a Friday afternoon loss, the Hewitt Trussville Huskies solidified themselves, for the third time in the past four state softball championships, as the state’s best team on Saturday night with back-to-back wins over the Fairhope Pirates.

The Huskies started the weekend going 2-1 to start the tournament. They beat Daphne in game one by a score of 3-2 on a walk-off grounder by Gracie Reeves that drove home Ryleigh Wood for the winning run. The second game would not be nearly as dramatic as the Huskies made short work of the Central Red Devils 6-0. Sara Phillips pitched a 3-hit shutout and multiple players contributed from the plate in the win. Hewitt would then run into the Fairhope Pirates in the third game of the day, falling 1-0 in a game that saw the Pirates score in the opening inning and the remainder of the game was a pitchers’ duel in which neither team could score. Going into day two, the Huskies would find them-

selves playing for their lives, digging out of the loser’s bracket and taking the hard road to the blue map. The task was a daunting one, but the Huskies were built for such a challenge.

In game one on Saturday morning, the Huskies took on the Sparkman Senators. Hewitt scored methodically over the Senators, putting up one run in the first, second and fourth innings and getting a 2-run sixth to seal the deal. Sara Phillips continued her brilliant season, getting the win with a 3-hit shutout and striking out 7 before Kate Hicks came in to finish it off, allowing no hits nor runs and striking out

2. Olivia Faggard would go 3-of-4 from the plate with 2 RBI in the game

and that would not be the last we would hear from her.

The second game would be the first of two against Fairhope that the Huskies would need to win in order to see their goal of being state champs become reality. The game would see 3 scoreless innings before Hewitt’s bats came to life in the fourth inning, where they put up 4 runs. Fairhope would manage just 1 run in the fifth before Hewitt got another one across the plate in the sixth to make it 5-1 heading into the final inning of play. Hewitt would add 2 runs in the seventh and, despite Fairhope’s best effort to make a comeback, their 3 runs in the bottom of the seventh would not be enough as the Huskies would get the 7-4

win to force another game between the two teams. Phillips would get the win, going 5 innings and allowing just one run on 7 hits and striking out

6. Zaylen Tucker and Kate Hicks would finish the game off for the Huskies, allowing a combined 5 hits and just 3 runs while striking out 2.

In the final game of the day, these two teams would face off for the third time this weekend. The game did not start very favorable for the Huskies as Fairhope would jump out to a 2-0 lead in the top of the first inning. Hewitt would not get any runs across the plate in the bottom of the inning and a lightning delay would slow things down for approximately one hour. The clouds would part and the

skies would clear up, bringing the tarps off of the field and allowing the teams to get back to business. The Huskies came out determined, beginning with a one-run second inning. In the third, Hewitt would take the lead at 3-2, and never relinquish it.

The Husky bats absolutely exploded in the bottom of the fourth inning, scoring 8 runs against the Pirates. All this time, Phillips and company did not allow another run and, in the fifth inning, the Huskies would get a run across the plate to go up by 10 points, 12-2, and pick up the blow-

out win by way of the run rule, sealing the win and the state championship. Phillips pitched the whole 5 innings, giving up 2 runs on 7 hits and striking out 2 batters. Faggard finished the game with 3 RBI on 2 of 4 batting. Phillips, Reeves, Hannah Dorsett, and Lexie Kelly all had 2 RBI each for the Huskies.

This marks the third time in four state championship series that the Huskies have won the most prestigious prize in the state of Alabama in 7A softball, solidifying themselves as a true dynasty in the state.

Hewitt Trussville Huskies 2023 State Softball Champions. Photo by: Kyle Parmley

Hewitt Trussville’s Sara Phillips pitches during the 2023 State Championship. Photo by: Johnny Sanders

Degraffenried Signs With North Texas

By John Goolsby

For the Tribune

IRONDALE – Shades

Valley’s Reah Degraffenried signed a scholarship to run track at the University of North Texas Tuesday.

Degraffenried, the 6A State Champion and Alabama record holder in the 300-meter hurdles and indoor 60-meter indoor champion, is excited to sign with the Mean Green.

“The decision was not easy, but I am beyond excited to be furthering my academic and athletic career at the University of North Texas,” she said. “I can’t wait to see what new things I will accomplish as I begin this new chapter in my life.”

Degraffenried finished as State runner-up in the 100-meter hurdles, 100-meter dash, and 200-meter dash. She was also runner-up in the

To Host Pro Boxing Event

By Loyd McIntosh

indoor 60-meter dash. Degraffenried ended her high school career by running personal best times in her last six State finals races.

“It seems these days it’s really hard to get the ones who have natural talent to work hard,” said Valley head coach Gary Ferguson. “She is a true example of what natural talent who works hard looks like, and her work ethic will take her really far.”

McCain said CEPA

Executive Director Jeff Thompson informed her of the city’s decision to pull out of the agreement early during the week of May 15 after repeated attempts to finalize the event.

“I reserved it in August 2022. (Thompson) said he was going to send a contract out, but I hadn’t gotten one and it’s just a month or two before the show. I had to text his personal phone to get a response,” McCain said. “I’ve got doctors to book, judges and officials out of town, and

One One Six Boxing's Brandi McCain with boxer Michael Cook.

Photo courtesy of One One Six Boxing

Nicholas Adams Knocks Out Joshuan Cox. Photo courtesy of One One Six Boxing

See BOX, Page 20

Reah Degraffenried on signing day. Photo by: Shades Valley

Moody softball season ends in second round of playoffs

By Johnny Sanders Sports Editor

OXFORD – The Lady

Blue Devils from Moody traveled to Choccolocco Park in Oxford, Alabama, to join the true best of the best in the state of Alabama in the softball playoffs on Wednesday. In their first game, they whipped St. Paul’s Episcopal 4-0 but found no such luck in the next game against Ardmore, losing 4-2. They found themselves in the loser’s bracket against Scottsboro, where they took a 6-4 loss to end their season. While the season did not end with the Blue Devils bringing a blue map to 411, the future is bright for Moody softball as they only lose one senior this year in Alex Harvard.

“The future of Moody softball is very bright,” said Head Coach Becky Seymour.

“I am so excited to be here for every minute of it.”

In their first game of the state tournament, the Blue Devils leaned on the pitching of seventh grader Bella Turley, who pitched a complete game against St Paul’s. Moody got 2 runs in the second and 2 more in the sixth to complete the shut-out win over the Saints. Turley went 7 innings, allowing no runs and just 4 hits and a strikeout to get the win. Not only did Turley throw over 110 pitches in the game, but she led at the plate as well with 2 RBI.

In game two, the Blue Devils drew the Ardmore Tigers, who jumped out to a 2-0 lead in the top of the first inning. They would add a run in the third and Moody would answer with 2 of their own to make it 3-2 Tigers. Ardmore’s defense would hold Moody scoreless for the remainder of

Huskies’ Teer Awarded Kiwanis XC Runner Of The Year Award

By John Goolsby For the Tribune TRUSSVILLE –Hewitt-Trussville’s Tristan

Teer was named Kiwanis Club of Birmingham’s 2023 Boys Cross Country runner of the year. In Cross Country, Teer holds the 5,000 meter school record at 15:19.5. He was the 7A Section 3 Champion and an All-State selection in 2022 and 2021. “I was introduced to running. A sport at the time I didn’t know that I’d fall in love with,” Teer said. “Through hard work, a lot of unseen hours, and the drive to be the best. I end up where I am now.”

The Wallace State signee also ran indoor and outdoor track for the Huskies. He

the game while adding a run in the fifth to make it 4-2 and that is how the game would end. Riley Hodges would take the loss for Moody, pitching all 7 innings and allowing 4 runs on 5 hits and striking out 4. Kendall Trimm would lead at the plate, going 2 of 3 with an RBI to go with another RBI from Libby Higgins for the Blue Devils.

In their third game of the day, Moody had to win to stay alive in the playoffs and they would be playing a familiar foe in the Scottsboro Wildcats. Moody played this team just a week ago, losing 7-1 to the Wildcats. Scottsboro apparently had Moody’s number this year as they would get the win in the second game as well, this time by a score of 6-4. Moody jumped out to a 4-0 lead on the Wildcats

Auburn Grad Eyes Career In Racing

By John Goolsby For

the Tribune

BIRMINGHAM – Auburn student Raegen Moody walked across the stage in Neville Arena on May 6 to receive her Mechanical Engineering degree and stepped into the NTT IndyCar Series. The Cedartown, Georgia native was one of three females selected to be a part of Chip Ganassi Racing’s Women In Motorsports Powered by

See MOODY, Page 20 See RACING, Page 20

See HUSKIES, Page 20

2023 Moody Blue Devils Softball team makes it to the state tournament. Photo by: Nick Rutledge

Hewitt's Tristan Teer with his Kiwanis Runner of the Year Award. Photo by: HTHS Athletics

Moody with Indy 500 and six-time IndyCar Champions, Scott Dixon at Barber.

Photo by: Chip Ganassi Racing

Moody

From page 19

and shut them out until the sixth inning, where Scottsboro would put 6 runs on the board before holding Moody scoreless in the top of the seventh to seal the win. Turley was back on the mound, pitching the complete game, including 5 shutout innings. She allowed 6 runs on 7 hits and had 2 strikeouts. Rogers and Trimm each had 2 RBI for Moody.

“I am very proud of the

Huskies

From

PNC Bank 2023 internship program.

The Ganassi program was developed to drive awareness and support for gender equality and economic inclusion for women in the motorsports workforce.

Moody will begin her internship with Chip Ganassi Racing the day after the Indy 500. She will spend two months with the organization in Indianapolis. “I’ll work Monday through Friday, and then I’m traveling to four races throughout the summer.”

“I grew up a big race fan and always had all forms of motorsports on the TV,” she said. Moody got her first up close look at IndyCar at Barber Motorsports Park a few weeks ago.

“I came to Auburn and got involved in a couple of motor sports-oriented extracurriculars,” she said. “At that point, it opened my eyes to a career that could be had in this field.” Moody served as the Director of Competition for Auburn’s iRacing team. “I set race schedules and planned how we would learn and grow on the technical side as a team throughout the semester.” The Auburn team competes in the eNASCAR College iRacing Series. While many colleges have separate entrants, Auburn’s team is run like a real

race team. This past spring, the series, offering a $15,000 scholarship purse for each race, held events on the virtual tracks of Iowa, Dover, Michigan, and Daytona. Racing allows Moody to use all that she has learned on the plains and pair it with her competitive spirit.

“I would say for me, the thing I love about making a career in racing is that I grew up playing competitive sports, and I see motorsport as an opportunity to marry the technical skills that I’ve gained in college, but also to have that experience of being on a team and working and competing for something.”

Moody offers this advice for girls looking to pursue a career in racing. “The two biggest things would be, one, believe that you can do it. Nothing is stopping you from doing it,” she said.

“Two, once you start getting into it a little bit further, there is such an incredible community of women in motorsports that are all so willing to take time and offer advice and give feedback.”

Moody has found that a unique sisterhood exists among the women of IndyCar. “One of the most special things for me is just getting to meet all these women in the paddock, and they’re all so incredible and so supportive,” said Moody. “And you get to hear their stories about how there weren’t many of them a few years ago. One of the coolest opportunities for being a woman in motorsports is fostering those relationships with the other women in the sport.”

Race fans should keep an eye on Auburn’s Raegen Moody. You might just see her calling a race on a pit stand in the near future.

From page 19

was the 2022 7A Indoor State Champion in the 3200 meters and All-State in the 1600 meters. He was All-State in the 3200 meters and 1600 meters in 2023. In outdoor track, he was

From page 18

matches to set.”

Three days later, however, McCain contacted Josh Taylor, Events Manager of the Trussville Civic Center, who, according to McCain, expressed his enthusiasm for the event.

“I could tell by his voice when he answered the phone that it was going to be good because he didn’t hesitate,” explained McCain. “He was like ‘boxing? I love boxing,’ and I thought ‘We’re in.’ He is probably one of the most accommodating people I’ve ever dealt with when arranging a venue. This was all booked in no time.”

One One Six Boxing Promotions, founded by McCain while living in Gadsden, specializes in featuring upand-coming fighters from the Southeast at events concentrated in north Alabama and Tennessee, especially Memphis. However, McCain said

way my girls played all year, said Coach Seymour. “Just like any other team, we had our share of ups and downs but they fought every day and every game. These young girls are setting standards for what the future of Moody softball should be while upholding the legacy of the ones who have come before them. We have had several different girls stepping up throughout the year. I am excited to be returning 99% of my team as I only lose 1 senior. I know in the

All-State in 2023 in the 3200 meters and the 4×800 meter relay and All-State in the 3200 meters and 1600 meters in 2022.

“Tristan is one of the most talented runners to ever come through Trussville,” said Hewitt XC coach Matthew Michalke. “We’re so proud

she has been interested in promoting an event in metropolitan Birmingham and believes Trussville may be an ideal location to introduce One One Six’s brand of boxing in the area.

“I’ve been wanting to get to the Birmingham Metro area for a while but Trussville turned out to be a win-win,” said McCain.

“My fighters are really excited because of the area, the shopping, and better hotels, and better food. What I thought was going to be a disaster has turned into something everyone seems to be very thrilled about.”

Among the boxers expected to compete include Nicholas Adams a super middleweight from Pell City and fighting out of Juarez Boxing in Irondale, heavyweight Joshua Martin from Tuscaloosa, and middleweight Joseph Dillard from nearby Attalla, Alabama, and seven-time Alabama boxer of the year as an amateur.

offseason that these girls are going to be working to continue the growth that they have shown this year so that we can come back stronger both mentally and physically so we are prepared to take on the best teams in the state of Alabama!

The young Blue Devils (2 seventh graders, 2 eighth graders, 6 sophomores, 4 freshmen, 3 juniors and a senior) finished the season at 28-19 and as one of the top 5 teams in 5A in the state of Alabama.

of what he accomplished at Hewitt-Trussville and look forward to seeing him continue his career at Wallace State.”

“What I learned and can take away from this sport is a little hard work and dedication can go a long way,” Teer said.

McCain had planned the event to be centered around Adams who has quickly developed a solid reputation since his professional debut in July 2021. With a record of 4-0, all by knockout, McCain said Adams is poised to make it to the next level and planned to have a higher-quality opponent and bigger sponsors for Adams, so the potential cancellation of the event could have been disastrous for his career progress.

“Nicholas was going to lose some sponsors because he had three sponsors that wanted him in St. Clair County,” McCain explained. “But, they agreed to sponsor him since Trussville wasn’t that far and it’s a nice clean town. It’s going to be perfect!”

McCain said she is still lining up bouts and expects the card to feature a total of ten to 12 fights. Doors will open at 5 p.m. with fights starting at 6 p.m. Learn more or purchase tickets online at www.oneonesixboxing.com.

Sara Phillips – Hewitt Trussville Huskies Softball

Dixon’s No. 9 PNC Bank Honda. Photo by: Chip Ganassi Racing

Auburn’s iRacing team. Photo by: Auburn iRacing