The Trussville Tribune – July 5 - 11, 2023

City of Clay in talks to develop former Chalkville correctional facility

By Terry Schrimscher

For the Tribune

CLAY – The former Chalkville Campus of the Department of Youth Services may spring back to life next year as

Trussville man killed in crash

From The Tribune staff reports TRUSSVILLE — A crash on Wednesday night, June 28, 2023, claimed the life of a Trussville man, according to Jefferson County Chief Deputy Coroner Bill Yates.

Ronald Phillip Truss, 61, of Trussville, was killed in a single-vehicle crash in the 2600 block of Smith Sims

sideCar reflects

Trussville Rotary Daybreak Club announces this year’s president

Leeds Police Department arrests 3 after search warrant uncovers illegal drugs

By Chase Holmes News Reporter

LEEDS — Three people were arrested after a search warrant executed by the Leeds Police Department uncovered illegal drugs on Monday, June 12.

TRUSSVILLE — The Trussville Rotary Daybreak Club announced on Wednesday, June 28, that Leadership Trussville’s Executive Director, Dr. Kristi Bradford, will serve as president of the Trussville Rotary Daybreak Club for the 2023-24 year.

Dr. Bradford has been a member of the Club since June 2020. A few months before her induction, she saw

how active the club was and how close the members were, and she knew she wanted to be involved.

“I realized it was the people who drew me into this club,” Bradford said. “With every meeting I attended, the cohesiveness, sense of caring for one another, and dedication to community beyond these walls were what kept me coming.”

Dr. Bradford thanked outgoing President Jamie Townes for her time in the position.

“Thank you, Jamie, for an active year filled with so many things that fortified us as a club: solidifying our bylaws, charting a strategic plan, getting our Foundation back on track after a threeyear hiatus, and you found a way to make all of us Paul Harris fellows.”

She then took a moment to iterate what it means for her to be in the Trussville Rotary Club.

“We know these things to be true: our club is loyal

to prayer, patriotism, serving, volunteering, loving one another inside and outside these walls,” Bradford said. “We strongly support education, public safety, veterans, and armed forces. We are a phenomenal group. We’ve carried out service projects, awarded scholarships, and supported the leadership of young people. This is what we are about. Together we are mighty.”

Oneonta physical therapist shares life-changing heart attack testimony in hopes of helping others

By Alyssa Dutton Intern

TRUSSVILLE – During the hot summer months, people often exert themselves outside in the heat doing summer activities or outside work. These strenuous activities combined with the heat of an Alabama summer may occasionally mask symptoms of serious underlying health conditions.

Communist Hungary escapee to give presentation at Trussville Civic Center

By Alyssa Dutton Intern

TRUSSVILLE – Mr. B.

K. Berty, who escaped communist Hungary, is providing a PowerPoint presentation Thursday, July 13, at the Trussville Civic Center. The

Leeds Arts Council to perform ‘Something Rotten’

By

person, I do a lot of activities. I’m a physical therapist, and so I know the importance of trying to stay active and being in good condition. … I had trained for years as a triathlete and distance runner. As a matter of fact, 10 years ago, I finished second in the State of Alabama Senior Olympics on a bicycle for 20 km and 40 km.

Chase Holmes News Reporter LEEDS — The Leeds Art Council is set to perform

Rotten,” with performances in late July and early August. This play is based on the book by Karey Kirkpatrick

Vulcan Park and Museum

to

hold

#iheartVulcan photo contest in conjunction with Thunder on the Mountain

From The Tribune staff reports

– Vulcan Park and Museum is encouraging spectators to get involved in this year’s Fourth

Such was the case for Rick Sanders, a physical therapist from Oneonta who suffered a heart attack on December 24, 2022, after experiencing subtle warning signs the summer prior.

While heart attacks are often associated with other health conditions, such as obesity, diabetes and smoking, none of these things were the case for Sanders, who in addition to being a PT, is also a triathlete.

“My history of being physically fit speaks for itself; that’s why the whole thing has been hard to believe,” Sanders said. “I’m a very active

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“In my opinion, and opinion of others, I was probably one of the healthiest 67-yearolds in North Alabama when all this took place. Three weeks prior to my heart attack, I had a wellness checkup at my primary care physician and I was declared in perfect health; all my blood levels were better than normal.”

Sanders said he basically had no warning signs, except for two mild episodes the previous summer. The first happened on July 4, 2022, while spending time with his family at their pool.

“We had family at our home and the pool was very

See

host membership drive at monthly gathering

Women of Trussville is hosting a membership drive to encourage new members to join on Tuesday, July 11, 2023, at the Trussville Civic Center.

on final performance, looks forward to what might come next

Left: Outgoing President Jamie Townes, Right: Incoming President Kristi Bradford (Photo by Trussville Rotary Daybreak Club)

Rick and Julie Sanders

Members of the Trussville Rotary Club delivered donation to 3 Hots and a Cot (Photo by Trussville Rotary Club)

L oca L / R egion

From front page LAC

front

and John O’Farrell, and features music and lyrics by Wayne Kirkpatrick and Karey Kirkpatrick.

Olivia Soileau, with the Leeds Arts Council, described the play as “a witty, musical comedy about Shakespeare and his rivals.”

Attendees will have multiple opportunities to go and

Rotary

From front page

In other news, the Trussville Rotary Daybreak Club stopped by 3 Hots and a Cot on Wednesday, June 28, to donate needed items.

The Trussville Rotary

Credit: Leeds Arts Council

see the performance: 7 p.m. showtimes are available from July 27-29 and August 3-5

• 2:30 p.m. performances will be available on July 30 and August 6 The Leeds Theatre and Arts Council is located at 8140 Parkway Drive in Leeds. Ticket purchasing and more information is available at leedsartcouncil.org.

Daybreak Club supported 3 Hots and a Cot by bringing items such as toilet paper, paper towels, cleaning supplies, air fresheners and more.

Rotary’s Community Service Chair David Como organized the supplies drive.

Members David and Van

into the future on Friday, June 23.

sideCar took to the stage at the Trussville Entertainment District with the knowledge that who they were as a band before they climbed the steps would be left behind, and something new was going to take its first breath after.

It also marked the return of sideCar to its full strength. Kelley Anderson, who plays guitar, hasn’t been actively playing with the band in 10 years. He rejoined his fellow members – Kyle Hendrick on guitar and vocals, Lee Huffstutler on bass guitar and Scott Stearns on the drums – to put a capstone on the last 16 years.

Anderson said it was great to be around the guys again.

“I really am happy about being a part of something that I enjoy so much,” he said. “I was fortunate to find three great guys to spend time with playing music. It is a bonus when other people enjoy it so well. As a group, we have always felt that our sum is greater than the whole of its parts.”

Stearns said it was a shared humor that helped bring them together.

“All the way back when we started this thing in 2007, we shared a great sense of humor,” he said. “That’s a fantastic way to start any re-

Horne dropped off the items at the agency.

3 Hots and a Cot provides a place for homeless veterans to receive the assistance they need to transition back to civilian society. To learn more about the organization, please visit cotsforvets.org.

lationship.”

Their chemistry as a band was put on full display during their performance. Huffstutler gave all the praise to the city of Trussville and their fellow citizens.

“It couldn’t have been a better night,” Huffstutler said. “The people, the night, and the venue were incredible. I am so proud to live in the city of Trussville. To have something like that, to have our talent on exhibition in that environment, is incredible. It was a great time and we hoped everybody enjoyed it.”

For sideCar, the most important thing was making sure that the band and its audience were thriving together. Hendrick said the band has always taken care to maintain a special relationship with

those that followed them.

“We always feel like we have to earn their attention and respect,” he said.

Huffstutler reflected on the different phases the band has gone through and what might be coming next.

“On practice day one, we started off as an original group,” he said. “We decided to try some cover songs and we eventually decided to turn into a cover band. We recorded an original album between 2009 and 2012 that will be released in the near future. We had such a good time Friday night. It was awesome. Everything worked.”

Depending on how the next year goes, Huffstutler said they were more than prepared to handle all the jokes if they come together again next

year. “I wouldn’t be surprised if we had a second annual final show,” he said. “This is a step among our stairs. This is the start of our next endeavor. It was a final show to put a cap on our cover life. We have a strong desire to do our own thing.

“We don’t hunt, fish or golf,” Huffstutler added. “We each take satisfaction in being creative. But I can feel the clock ticking so there is a sense of urgency to move onto the next thing. We will only be immortal for a few more decades.”

For those wanting to find out what the future holds with them, you can look for the band’s first original album to release sometime in the future.

sideCar performed their final show at the Trussville Entertainment District (Photo by Sierra Rodriguez)

Detectives with O.S.U., along with Leeds SWAT, conducted a search warrant in the 8300 block of Kent Avenue for a narcotics investigation. During the search, Brandon Lamar Eldridge, Landis Franell Eldridge, and Heath Loran Diveley were taken into custody without incident.

Also during the search of the property, detectives located methamphetamine, mari-

juana, drug paraphernalia and firearms.

Brandon Lamar Eldridge, 36, of Leeds, is charged with two counts of unlawful distribution of a controlled substance, unlawful possession with intent to distribute, unlawful possession of marijuana second degree, and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia. Further charges are pending.

Landis Franell Eldridge, 32, of Leeds, is charged with unlawful distribution of a controlled substance, unlaw-

File Image

ful possession of a controlled substance, and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

Heath Loran Diveley is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana second degree and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

of July celebration with the #iheartVulcan photo contest.

Participants are asked to snap a photo of the fireworks from their vantage point across the city and then upload it at visitvulcan.com for a chance to win one of three prize packs. Submissions will be accepted between July 4, at 9 p.m., and July 5, at 9 p.m.

Submissions can include photos of Thunder on the Mountain, Vulcan, or how families are spending their Fourth of July holiday. The voting period will be from July 6 – July 8, and the winners will be announced on July 10. Winners will be chosen for one of three categories: most votes, staff’s favorite and most patriotic.

Prize packs include $50 Biscuit Love Gift Cards and preserves, Red Cat Coffeehouse coffee and swag, a $20 Frutta Bowl gift card, a

Nothing Bundt Cakes’ $30 gift card and 3-tier bundtlet tower, a Pihakis Restaurant Group gift card for $100 that includes restaurants such as Little Donkey, Rodney Scott BBQ, Tasty Town and Luca, and Vulcan swag, and much more.

For more details, visit www.visitvulcan.com.

About Vulcan® Park and Museum

Vulcan Park Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization which operates Vulcan Park and Museum on behalf of the City of Birmingham. Vulcan Park and Museum’s mission is to preserve and promote Vulcan as the symbol for the Birmingham region, advance knowledge and understanding of Birmingham’s history and culture, and to encourage exploration of the region.

Clay

From front page the options for the property with the City Council during the Tuesday, June 27, meeting.

“It’s going to be a really long-term deal. The land committee will make their recommendation in September,” Dixon said. He said the Department of Youth Services board would probably make a decision in December.

“The caveat is it will only be used for recreational purposes. It cannot be sold or developed for commercial,

residential or industrial use,”

Dixon added. He said Youth Services could choose to offer Clay a license to use the property or a long-term lease.

The 500-plus-acre site closed in 2012 after a tornado damaged or destroyed many of the buildings on campus. The property has since endured more than a decade of neglect and vandalism.

“We can talk about all kinds of different recreational developments that can go in there,” Dixon said. “One of the easiest things is going to be to put some tennis courts, because they’re already there. They just have to be recoated.”

Dixon said many of the remaining buildings would likely have to be removed but the city would try to preserve some of the stone from the structures. He said it was unlikely that any of the buildings could be saved, including the chapel, which has fallen prey to vandalism and satanic graffiti throughout the building.

The property also includes a lake, which could be maintained as another local fishing spot for the community.

He did not say whether the city would try to preserve the historic clock in the administration tower on campus.

The clock was originally located in the Jefferson County courthouse in downtown Birmingham and was relocated to Chalkville when the courthouse was demolished.

The administration building was one of several structures on campus constructed as a Works Progress Administration project as a program of President Roosevelt’s New Deal in the 1930s.

Speaking to the Trussville Tribune after the meeting, Dixon said the plans could include a golf driving range and disc golf courses among other recreational uses. He said he did not anticipate building any lodges or plans for any overnight uses.

The next meeting of the Clay City Council is scheduled for 6 p.m., on July 11, at City Hall.

The Alabama State Training School for Girls Campus in Chalkville in 1965 (Birmingham Public Library Archives)

Photo credit: Steven Troutt

The monthly meeting will start with a meet-and-greet at 5:30 p.m. The dice game “BUNCO” will be played from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. for prizes. Guests are encouraged to bring finger foods for dinner and desert.

Yearly dues are $45 for the membership, and donations of $5 at the meetings are appreciated.

Everyone is welcome to attend the membership drive.

The Trussville Civic Center is located at 5381 Trussville Clay Road, Trussville, AL 36173.

Tuberville: CIA involved in Russian coup

not involved in it to some degree with our CIA.”

Last Friday, June 23, 2023, a Russian coup led by Yevgeny Prigozhin, commander of a paramilitary organization known as the Wagner Group advanced on Moscow before recalling his troops.

The action followed ongoing complaints by Prigozhin related to Vladimir Putin’s military leaders. Putin has condemned Prigozhin’s actions.

Tuberville also spent time discussing his ongoing battle to bring the Space Comm headquarters to Huntsville.

Escapee

From front page

topic will be Communism V. The Bible: Preparing America for 2024.

This presentation will be hosted by Trussville’s Eagle Forum. Coffee and refreshments will be served at 5:30

Crash

From front page

Road. He was pronounced dead at the scene at 9:10 p.m.

“The decedent was the driver and lone occupant

Credit: Trussville Eagle Forum

p.m. until the meeting starts at 6 p.m.

The presentation is free and open to the public, and children over the age of 12 are welcome.

The Trussville Civic Center is located at 5381 Trussville Clay Road, Trussville, AL 36173.

of a pickup truck involved in a single-vehicle wreck,” Yates said. “The cause and circumstances of the wreck are being investigated by the Trussville Police Department.”

By Scott Buttram Publisher

In an interview on the Jeff Poor Show on Tuesday, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville R-Alabama, said he believed the United States Central Intelligence Agency was involved in the Russian coup last Friday. If Tuberville’s

insistence of U.S. involvement proves true, it would be a major development in the internal power struggle in Russia.

Following comments from the radio show host, Jeff Poor, that it didn’t appear that the United States was involved in an attempted coup in Russian, Tuberville offered his view

that U.S. intelligence did play a part.

Tuberville said he had read a report in which President Biden said “we weren’t involved in that.”

“He said we weren’t involved in that, which is probably the biggest lie you can tell,” Tuberville said. “There’s no way that we’re

Commercial Rental Properties Trussville Area

205.601.5116 DockeryHoldingsLLC@gmail.com

Members of the Republican Women of Trussville pictured with Alabama Governor, Kay Ivey.

U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville R-Alabama (File photo)

active,” he said. “I’m usually the one right in the middle of all the activity, but I sat over on the side of the pool, on the deck, with my head down and slept basically all afternoon. Did not feel like playing in the water at all. Most of my family has identified that as something very much out of the ordinary for me, and I tend to agree with them.”

The other event, he said, happened about a week or two later when he went outside to do some normal daily activities.

“Most Saturdays, I go to a little convenient store and get muffins for my household,” Sanders said. “That particular day, a little after noon, I became nauseous and ended up vomiting four times in about an hour. I attributed that to a bad muffin, but it turns out that was probably another precursor to my heart attack.”

Sanders said he also noticed his endurance was not quite what it used to be.

Fast forward to the Friday before Christmas 2022: Sanders said he was making some last-minute checks on his property to prepare for a cold front when he became short of breath and nauseated.

“It was a very unusual event,” he said. “I went upstairs where Julie, my bride, was busy preparing us something to eat. … I said, ‘Julie, I just don’t feel good.’

“She said, ‘Oh, come on, you’ve got to feel good; this is Christmas Eve eve, and the grandkids are coming over.’

“I said, ‘I really, really don’t feel good,’ and as a matter of fact, I went to bed around 8 p.m. that night and slept all night.”

Sanders woke up the next morning, Christmas Eve, at 7:30 a.m., and walked into the kitchen where he soon found himself doubled over on the bar, short of breath and nauseated with a tightness in his chest.

“I had no pain; no pain in my chest, no pain radiating in my arm or back,” he said. “I really didn’t want to believe what I thought was happening, so I went and got in the recliner thinking that would help, which it did not.”

Sanders woke his wife, Julie,

and told her she needed to take him to the hospital immediately.

“She looked at me and didn’t ask any questions,” he said. “She knew I meant business.”

Sanders suggested going to a hospital in Gadsden, but Julie insisted on taking him to Ascension St. Vincent’s Blount, which was closer to their home.

On the way to the hospital, Julie held her husband’s hand and prayed for their safety and his healing.

“Very short, very sweet, and then we left and went to Ascension St. Vincent’s Blount,” Sanders said. “The thing I’d like to emphasize about this event is the fact that, you know, it doesn’t matter how long or how short your prayer is; if you’re sincere and you have faith in the One that you’re talking to, that prayer will be heard. … Two months after the fact, I was recovering at home, and I was sitting outside in a swing under a shade tree and it was like the Lord spoke to me. He spoke to my heart, and He said, ‘You wouldn’t be here today if it hadn’t been for that prayer of your wife.’ It just broke me … I truly believe that short prayer saved my life. … That prayer got me to the hospital.”

When Sanders arrived at the Ascension St. Vincent’s Blount emergency room, his heartrate was 40 BPM. The ER staff discussed the possibility of flying him by helicopter to the nearest in-patient hospital, but he was too unstable at the

time to be moved. “The nurses at St. Ascensions Blount, one of which went to school with my daughter, they were just excellent,” Sanders said. “Their care and concern was very outstanding. The physician that was working at the emergency room, he certainly made the right decisions and the right calls to bring me up to a stable condition.”

After being stabilized, Sanders was moved to Ascension St. Vincent’s East, near Trussville, where he found himself under the care of cardiologist Dr. Jason Thompson and cardiothoracic surgeon Dr. Adam Witcher.

“(Mr. Sanders) definitely stands out in my memory because he came in on Christmas Eve,” Dr. Witcher said. “He came in with chest pain. Thankfully he did the right thing and came to the doctor. I got a heart cath and it showed that he had really severe coronary artery disease and he actually didn’t need to leave the hospital.”

Dr. Witcher said he told Sanders he needed heart surgery, specifically bypass grafting, a procedure that involves taking a blood vessel from another part of the body and attaching it to the coronary artery above and below the area of blockage.

“He pulled up a chair and sat down beside Julie and he very clearly laid out what was going to happen and told us about the surgery procedure,” Sanders said. “I was a little hesitant at first … but the more he sat there and talked, the more I knew I could trust him. With that in mind, I felt like I was in such good hands.”

At that time, the platelets needed to perform the bypass grafting were not available, and Sanders had to wait in the hospital until platelets arrived the following Thursday. He was then prepped for surgery the next morning, Friday, Dec. 30.

The surgery lasted six and a half hours and when Sanders got back to the recovery room, his wife later told him, Dr. Witcher came and stood at his bed for one solid hour, silently watching the monitors.

“I believe he was there because he truly cared about his client and he wanted to know firsthand if anything was going wrong or not,” Sanders said. “I really appreciate that.”

Speaking of Sanders’ atypical case, Dr. Witcher said he wants to emphasize that coronary disease and heart attacks can happen to anyone.

“(Sanders was) a very healthy guy and you would be surprised that this would happen to him, but it did,” he said. “There are definitely high-risk groups, you know – if you’re overweight, diabetic, and smoking definitely puts you at higher risk of having coronary disease – but even people which are none of those (like Sanders) can also have coronary disease.”

With Sanders having been the prime picture of health, one question this experience raised was how something like this could have happened to him. The answer he found was family genetics.

“I just sat there in the room not able to believe where I was and why I was there because of my experience of trying to be healthy all of these years,” Sanders said. “The physicians that took care of me, they said, ‘The only arteries that you had blocked were in your heart – you’re clear all the way through everything else – and therefore we can declare your condition caused by your genetics, or it’s family-oriented.’

“My mother had eight people in her ancestry that died of a heart attack, or something related to that, and that’s significant,” he continued. “So, I was very adamant to my brother and my sister about them

being tested to make sure that their cardiovascular system was up to speed, because I sure didn’t want them to have to go through what I had gone through.”

Sanders was discharged to go home on Jan. 4, 2023. After being home approximately two weeks, Dr. Witcher called him to discuss his recovery progress.

“Mr. Sanders was an incredible patient,” Dr. Witcher said. “He did everything right. He came in when he was supposed to and did everything that we asked him to. He took all the medicines that he needed to take. He was just a great patient from the beginning.”

At almost seven months postop, Sanders said he can now walk four miles over uneven terrain with no problem and no shortness of breath.

“Being so physically active all my life and then having to start at zero and build myself back, it has been a hard road to understand,” he said. “I am getting better endurance and improving strength, (and) I’m just so thankful that I get more chances to do things and be with family and friends, and to be able to encourage others to not neglect their health.

“I’m so blessed to have family members that believe and pray for others, and I’m thankful that the Lord has put me in a position where I can speak about these things to others. I can speak how powerful prayer is. I have learned that there is so much power in the prayers of the brothers and sisters that are continuing in the faith, (and) I can’t thank them enough.”

Sanders said this entire experience has raised his awareness of how important it is for people to have their heart and cardiovascular system checked out thoroughly.

“I’ve experienced a lot of goodness coming out of this because it’s got some people that I know concerned about their health and they’re getting things checked out,” he said. “We need to take warning signs seriously. I would encourage people go see your doctor, go see a cardiologist if there’s a question, and go see your primary care physician and get checked out thoroughly. I was really close to death, but I was able to go back home, and that’s most important.”

Jason Thompson, MD

Adam Witcher, MD

Reflections: No tie in July

Editor’s note: This is an opinion column.

By Michael J. Brooks

I was in college when our pastor took two or three of us fledgling ministers to the church sanctuary and showed us how to sit up straight on the platform without slouching.

“Wear a crisp white shirt and be sure your socks are long enough,” he said. “Don’t forget you speak for God.”

I’ve often thought about this training session over the years, especially so in this time when pulpit dress has changed. In fairness, business dress has changed, too. “Business casual” used to be on Fridays, but it’s every day in many places. I don’t often get to visit other churches. The last time was over a year ago. The pastor wore tennis shoes, jeans and a tee-shirt (I couldn’t tell if the tee shirt was crisp, and I didn’t see his socks).

What a pastor should wear in the pulpit is an unwinnable argument. For every “dress down and be approachable” argument there is the UMC Bishop Will Willimon argument who asked why a courtroom judge wears a robe.

“His robe shows respect for what he represents,” Willimon answered.

It’s best for ministers simply to ask what acceptable pulpit wear might be in the places they’re invited to serve.

Nor is it a clearcut argument what worshippers should wear.

Contemporary church leaders insisted an excuse many had for not attending church was they didn’t have proper clothes. Therefore, these influencers suggested we ease up. And we have. I remember an event congregations used to observe in mid-summer: “No tie in July.” Now I think this

What about entertainment in the church?

In the Sanctuary?

Editor’s note: This is an opinion column.

By Brice F. Marsh Member, Central Baptist Church Trussville

Is it appropriate to schedule entertainment programs such as Christian comedians, bluegrass music groups, southern gospel quartets, etc. in the sanctuary; even at times other than regular worship services?

Since the interruption of the Covid pandemic, many faithful church goers have yet to return to regular church attendance.

And many newcomers to newly developed neighborhoods and subdivisions, have yet to be introduced to a new church home.

And yes, increasing numbers of recent younger generations have never attended church at all.

Sadly, an invitation by a visitation team or an announcement of a revival is not likely to attract these people to come to church.

Christian entertainment currently scheduled in local churches. You may want to plan to attend.

Oasis 2023

First Baptist Church – Trussville, AL

July 13 - 1:30 pm

Dennis Swanberg, Comedian

Allison Speer, Gospel Singer/Story

Teller

Frank Jones, Host & Pianist

For info – (205) 393-7020

The Dill Pickers Central Baptist Church – Trussville, AL (at Argo)

Sunday, August 27 - 5:30 pm

Bluegrass Band

Hilarious Comedy

Free Adm – I/59 – Exit 148 – ½ mi S. Hiway 11

For info (205) 655-2351

The Warblers Club Gospel Concert

Sixth Avenue Baptist Church

Birmingham, AL

would

only affect two or three of us at our church!

But there is an enduring principle about modesty in worship.

Paul urged Timothy to maintain propriety in the Ephesian church.

He cautioned the women not to display “elaborate hairstyles, gold, pearls, or expensive apparel.” James included men when he wrote about a wealthy man with costly jewelry and apparel (James 2:2). This means we don’t come to church to show off our affluence.

Paul also said women should wear “decent and appropriate clothing” (1 Timothy 2:9). The Temple of Diana or Artemis was in Ephesus, and Paul taught that the attire in Christian worship should be above the standard of that worn

in the pagan temple (1 Corinthians 11 deals with the same concept).

Thus, worshippers shouldn’t go to the house of God to display their wealth or their physique. We go to God’s house to honor him. The only thing we should call attention to is our need for God’s mercy and forgiveness.

It used to be that we saved our finest for Sunday to honor the Lord.

Today we reason that reverence is best demonstrated by a heart of humility.

“Reflections” is a weekly faith column written by Michael J. Brooks, pastor of the Siluria Baptist Church, Alabaster, Alabama. The church’s website is siluriabaptist.com.

Having a Sunday afternoon or evening or midweek program of wholesome entertainment, such as a bluegrass music group, a Christian comedian, or a southern gospel quartet to entice new people to visit our church is perfectly good I think in the sight of God.

Once they come and feel the warmth and love within our fellowship … they will be drawn to come back to worship with us on Sunday. Then God and the Holy Spirit can minister to them according to their spiritual needs. For sure, we should demonstrate that our church is our Happy Place. They may be searching for a new happy place themselves.

And, let’s not forget … these entertainment programs are delightful to our members as well.

Here are some examples of good

April 29-30 - 5 pm (Past Example)

God gives us some guidance in Phillippians 4:8 about choosing our “things”: “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are honest, just, pure, lovely, good report, virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things”.

Psalm 95:1 “Oh come, let us sing to the Lord; Let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation!”

Genesis 4:20-21 speaks of Jubal, the father of all who play stringed instruments and pipes.

Nehemiah 12:27 (About the dedication of the wall of Jerusalem): “they celebrated joyfully with singing, cymbals, harps and lyres”.

God has a sense of humor and we are made in His image. Let’s have fun in ways that will be pleasing to Him!

Pastor Michael J. Brooks of the Siluria Baptist Church in Alabaster, Alabama.

Phil Williams: For the least of them

By Phil Williams, 1819 News Commentary

Child trafficking is here. Let that sink in. Child trafficking is right here, in your state, your community or perhaps even your home.

Let there be no illusion that child trafficking is a symptom of third-world failed states or the storyline for action movies. Just in the past couple of weeks, the Fultondale Police Department, in collaboration with the Alabama-based Covenant Rescue Group, arrested 11 perpetrators in a one-day sting operation. That’s 11 men who traveled from all over the region with the intent to pay someone for sex with a child.

There is no greater mission than working to save our precious kids from perpetrators who would seek to do them harm. Kids are our greatest asset entrusted to us by God himself and we have a duty to provide for, protect, and defend them.

Early in our marriage, I took a job working in an adolescent treatment center with kids who had all manner of problems. There were psychiatric disorders, drug addictions, behavioral problems and, very often, after-effects of abuse.

Every time I saw what I thought was the upper level of awful, a new kid would come in with a new tragedy, and I

would have to raise the awful meter up another notch. To be sure, some of those kids were their own worst enemies, but too often I found that the bulk of the issues those kids faced stemmed from an adult who was partially, if not fully, to blame. Some of their stories are still burned into my mind.

I remember one kid who had done so much acid that he kept seeing things in his peripheral vision that weren’t there well after his detox. Part of his personal history was abuse at the hands of a parent who thought that a good punishment was to put him in the oven and turn it on to teach him a lesson.

I remember a young lady who shined until the day came that she was to leave and return to her parents … the same parents who had used her in satanic rituals when she was small. On the day of her discharge, she put on dark clothes, dark makeup and left to go back to what she called “that dark world.”

By day, I worked with really messed up kids. In the evenings my wife and I were working with kids as volunteers with YoungLife ministries. At some point, I realized that within our YoungLife kids there were just as many problems as there were in the lives of my treatment center kids. The ones at the treatment center were the ones who were getting help for it.

We chose then to move to full-time ministry with YoungLife and to focus not on healing for kids from the outside in, but the inside out. For the next seven years, we followed that calling with wonderful and often hilarious times.

But even in the midst of all the smiles, there were moments that rattled our cage as kids would let us in on their traumas and troubles. My wife had a young lady tell her about her suicidal thoughts leaving no choice but to talk to her parents after which the girl wouldn’t talk to her again. But she was alive.

I once had kids let me know that they had been getting drunk at a friend’s house. It was the friend’s mom who supplied the alcohol and partied with them. I confronted it after which some of those kids wouldn’t talk with me. But the drunken parties stopped.

We knew that we had to love them enough to be willing to make them mad at us. We had to love them enough to be willing to go into their situations with every intent to do what it took to get them out.

As significant as those experiences were, they don’t hold a candle to the level of depravity, and evil, that is perpetrated on kids every day. We are in an epidemic of evil. There are certainly overt

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attempts to co-opt our kids. But the covert activity must also be addressed, and it has reached levels previously unheard of. Perpetrators have honed the of use social media, online chat rooms, and even video games, to gain access to our kids. It is not enough anymore to simply watch out for the creepy guy who hangs out by the park. Evil finds its way into the house, and in my experience sometimes the evil was already in the house.

The FBI estimates that at any given time an estimated 750,000 child predators are online trying to find a way to violate the innocence of our kids.

Operation Underground Railroad, an organization committed to rescuing kids

from trafficking, cites a UN study that says that Human Trafficking is the second-largest illicit industry in the United States, second only to the drug trade.

The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children reports that it received over 19,000 reports of child sex trafficking from all 50 states in the year 2022 alone.

Globally, over ten million innocent kids are forced into a desperate existence of pornography, prostitution or forced labor. Fultondale PD proved that the problem is not “out there” – it is here.

Evil does not stop. Evil does not take rest breaks or go on vacation. Evil is at work 24/7, and evil wants our kids. And it is here in our backyard.

Jesus told us in Matthew 25 that “whatever you did for one of the least of these… you did for me.” These are our kids. We have to love them enough to be willing to make them mad or to make ourselves uncomfortable. If we as a society sit idly by and allow perpetrators to operate unabated, then we will have failed as a society.

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.

Phil Williams is Policy Director for the Alabama Policy Institute.

The

Chamber of Commerce, serving the fastest growing area in Jefferson County, is now accepting applications for the position of Executive Director

This

By Ken Lass

Let me apologize in advance if this column seems a bit incoherent. I just woke up from a nap. Which is weird. Because I didn’t plan to take a nap. It just sort of happened. I was sitting there in the living room watching TV, and I nodded off. I think I was out about thirty minutes.

This seems to be a growing trend. For the great majority of my life, the only place I’ve ever been able to sleep is in the comfort of my own bed, at night. I’ve never been able to nap during the day. I’ve always been envious of people who can sleep at will, any time, anywhere.

My dad was great at that. He would come home from work, eat dinner, sit down in his recliner, and within five minutes he was out, mouth wide open, in full snore mode, sound asleep. When he took me to the barber shop for a haircut, which took about fifteen minutes (it doesn’t take long to get a flat top), Dad would spend that time zonked out on a chair in the waiting area. If he had thirty minutes to wait before dinner was ready, he would announce he was going to use the time for a power nap. And he did, conking out almost immediately. In church he got many a jab in the ribs from mom, who would catch him drifting off.

I’ve had friends with the same ability. They could nap on demand, just by closing their eyes and leaning back on something, anything. The other day I was leading a Bible study and, halfway through it, two members of

the group had fallen asleep. Some leaders may have been annoyed. I was actually more jealous than anything else. I could never sleep in the middle of a gathering of any kind. I never slept well in hotels, could never drop off in airports or in a car. I always want to be the driver on long family journeys, because it’s so boring being a passenger, and not being able to sleep. You can only read so many billboards, or watch so many farm fields rolling by, hoping to spot a cow or a horse, or a disgruntled farmer frowning at you because you are in an air conditioned car, and he is not.

Ken

But now, as I navigate through my septuagenarian years, all of that seems to be changing. I find myself dozing off all over the place. Watching TV in the living room, reading a book, working a crossword puzzle, or brainstorming a column. It’s so strange. Kind of like losing time off your life. One minute I’m sitting there watching Pat Sajak and Vanna White come out at the opening of Wheel of Fortune. The next thing I know, they’re congratulating the winner of the bonus round and the closing credits are rolling. What happened? Thirty minutes of my existence passed and I can’t ac-

count for it.

What makes my unscheduled siestas embarrassing is that, when I do fall asleep, I become my father’s son. Just like him, my jaw automatically drops like a broken drawbridge and my yap is wide open. The result is a snore that, I am told, rivals the roar of any train bustling through Trussville. It is loud enough that our little dachshund jumps up on my chest and licks my face just to make it stop.

The ironic part about these unintentional snoozes is that I feel groggier when I wake up than I did before. Which makes me wonder, are frequent naps a good or a bad thing? Naturally, I consulted that unimpeachable source of credibility, the internet. Of

course, immediately, I found two completely conflicting answers. One article stated napping restores energy level, makes you more alert, and may even improve your memory. The next article revealed napping can be a sign of diabetes, heart disease and depression. (deep sigh)

Well, I’ve decided I’m not going to worry about it. I’m going to think of it as just part of the natural process of growing older. My sweet mother lived to be 103. She was sharp as a tack until the final few years, and she napped every day. Sometimes all day.

It turns out there is a real art form to napping. Researchers say you should nap in the early afternoon, between one and three pm. Try

to relax some place where it’s dark and quiet. Turn off your electronics. Avoid caffeine and alcohol. They also say you should keep your naps very short. Fifteen minutes or less. Set an alarm if you have to. They claim even just five minutes is helpful.

Really? Five minutes? Hardly seems worth the effort. My snoring hasn’t even had a chance to build up to wind tunnel volume in five minutes.

This would mean that, in the time you took to read this column, you could have instead taken a nap, woke up, and felt refreshed and more energetic.

I probably shouldn’t have told you that.

(You can read more from Ken at kenlassblog.net)

ST. CLAIR COUNTY, ALABAMA, NOTICE TO BID

Notice is hereby given that the City of Argo Alabama ( City ) will receive sealed bids at City Hall at 100 Blackjack Road Trussville AL until 2 00 pm on Monday July 31 2023 at which time the bids will be opened for the following project ROOFING REPAIRS FOR ARGO CITY HALL The bid must contain all requirements and d o c u m e n t s s t a te d i n t h e b i d wh i c h i n c l u d e s a t m i n i m u m evidence of the Bidder s authority and quali ication to perform the work in Argo Alabama or obtain such quali ication prior to awarding the Contract

The City reserves the right to modify substitute cancel or the invitation to bid as well as the right to reject any or all bids to waive any or all irregularities and/or informalities in any bid and to award a contract in any manner consistent with the law and deemed in the best interest of the City A bid packet may be picked up at Argo City Hall online at cityofargo.org

Lass, Tribune columnist

Turkey harvest up; debate continues on population

By David Rainer Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources

According to Game Check reports, turkey hunters in Alabama harvested almost 2,500 more birds during the 2023 season than the 2022 season. Whether that’s an encouraging indication of the turkey population in the state is subject to significant debate.

Hunters reported taking 18,122 birds during the 2023 season, compared to 15,673 during the 2022 season and 14,947 during the 2021 season. Those are Game Check numbers, and Steven Mitchell, the upland game coordinator with the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources’ (ADCNR)

Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries (WFF) Division, said the results of the annual post-season hunter survey are not yet available. Mitchell is concerned that hunters are not reporting their harvests through Game Check as mandated.

“Our compliance rate on reporting is not where it needs to be,” Mitchell said. “Comparison of Game Check numbers with post-season harvest surveys gives us an estimated reporting compliance rate. Since implementation of Game Check in 2017-18, harvest reporting compliance has been increasing with each season. However, we are only averaging a 45% compliance rate over the last five years. That rate needs to be much higher. Compliance with harvest reporting is extremely important. We need the most complete and accurate data possible to help inform management of the wild turkey

resource.”

Chuck Sykes, WFF Director, also said this trend in turkey harvest cannot necessarily be construed as an increase in the turkey population.

“That remains to be seen,” Sykes said. “That could be a really good thing, meaning that we’ve got more birds. But we’ve also got more hunters out there. To me, we’ve got more hunters who are taking more birds.”

Sykes said he focused on the first 10 days of the past three seasons to illustrate the increase in hunters compared to turkey harvest numbers. During the opening 10 days of the 2021 season 3,808 hunters reported 4,488 birds harvested. The same time period for the 2022 and 2023 seasons showed significant increases in hunters (6,062 hunters in 2022 and 6,325 in 2023) and a corresponding increase in

reported harvests (7,391 in 2022 and 7,845 in 2023).

“We’ve got more hunters each year, killing more turkeys,” Sykes said. “So does that mean there are more turkeys out there. I don’t think so. Only time will tell.”

Sykes said what concerns him is the motivation of today’s turkey hunters compared to previous generations.

“Back in the day, you hunted turkeys for the chal-

lenge,” he said. “I’m not saying I didn’t like killing turkeys, but it was different. I don’t see that today. I’m not saying everybody. No matter what rules and regulations we put in place, no matter what science we come up with, we can’t legislate or regulate morals and ethics. Rules and regs are only as good as people who abide by them.”

Sykes said he studied the contacts the WFF Conser-

vation Enforcement Officers had with turkey hunters during the first 10 days of the 2023 season, and it was disheartening.

“The number of citations written was embarrassing,” he said. “More than half the counties had citations written in them.”

Those game violations included hunting without a license, adults hunting during youth weekend, hunting prior to the opening of the season and using decoys the first 10 days of the season.

“But the biggest one was hunting over bait,” Sykes said. “We had more than 80 citations written for hunting by the aid of bait in the first 10 days. If we wrote that many, how many were doing it? I think people’s mindsets have changed to ‘I just want to kill turkey under any circumstance so I can post the picture or video on social media.’

“I hope I’m wrong. It just seems that the lines between right and wrong are very blurred right now.”

Sykes said modern technology has become so sophisticated that the sense of fair chase has been marginalized.

“Like using a cell phone-activated trail camera, not just to scout, but to see a turkey and go try to kill him,” he said. “Back in the day, if a turkey didn’t gobble but once or twice on the limb, he had a good chance of making it. That was a defense mechanism. You might have hunted him all season. Now, with the cell phone-activated trail camera alerting you every time a turkey walks by, whether he gobbles or not, you can still kill him.

See OUTDOORS, Page 16

Daniel Sims and son, Fisher, head home after a successful turkey hunt. (Daniel Sims, Jaxson Epperson, David Rainer)

c a L enda R

Take Home Puzzle Mirror Craft

Wednesday, July 05: All Day

Trussville Public Library

one. We will be using breath work to set the foundation for meditative practice. Appropriate breath awareness is the doorway to the inner.

(M-F 8am-6pm ET).

HEALTH/BEAUTY

ATTENTION OXYGEN

Puzzle Mirror Craft Stop by the adult department and pick up supplies to make a jigsaw puzzle-frame mirror. While supplies last.

Take-Home Tuesdays (Weird Wednesday Edition): DIY Tabletop Football Wed Jul 5th 9:00am - 6:00pm

Pinson Public Library, 4509 Pinson Blvd, Pinson, AL

All supplies will be provided.

Summer Storytime

Thursday, July 06: 9:30am - 10:00am, 10:30 a.m. – 11 a.m.

Trussville Library - LBK Auditorium

Join Ms. Alicia for a summer-themed storytime in the library auditorium with stories, songs, bubble time, and lots of fun! No registration is needed.

Yarn Manglers - Knit & crochet group

Thursday, July 06: 2:00pm - 4:00pm

Trussville Library - Board Room

Regular breath practice creates respiratory fitness, lowers heart rate and blood pressure and increases vitality. Appropriate practice consistently over a long period of time expands the breath capacity and reduces the stress response to life. Participants will sit in chairs; no equipment is necessary.

This class will be taught by Anita Theart, Yoga Therapist, Holistic Wellness practitioner, Meditation teacher. More about Anita: https://atholisticwellness.com/

Books & Brews

Monday, July 10: 7:15pm - 8:15pm

Ferus Artisan Ales - Event Room

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(All ages)

Wednesday, July 5th at 9 AM

It’s Take-Home Tuesday, Weird Wednesday Edition!

Drop by the library beginning Wednesday, July 5th at 9 AM to pick up an all-ages kit with a craft & fun surprise! This week’s theme is sports. Supplies are limited, so kits are available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

An Altogether Magical Adventure with Mr. Larry Wed Jul 5th 10:00am - 11:00am Pinson Public Library, 4509 Pinson Blvd, Pinson, AL

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

Join our Facebook group: YARN MANGLERS ANONYMOUS

Old School Scrapbooking with Jim Baggett

Mon Jul 10th

2:00pm - 3:00pm

Pinson Public Library, 4509 Pinson Blvd, Pinson, AL

An evening Adult Book Club meeting at Ferus Artisan Ales

Join us for Books & Brews, an evening adult book club from the Trussville Public Library! Connect with your community and share your thoughts about this month’s book while enjoying delicious food and drinks at Ferus. We will meet each month on the second Monday of the month at 7:15 PM in the event room at Ferus. Contact the Adult Dept (205-655-2022 or tr.adult@jclc.org) if you need assistance in obtaining books or if you have any questions. 2023 meeting dates are January 9, February 13, March 13, April 10, May 15, June 12, July 10, August 14, September 11, October 9, November 13, and December 11.

Friends of the Trussville Library - Monthly Meeting

(All Ages)

Wednesday, July 5th 10AM

Join Mr. Larry & his wacky friends as they go on a hilarious, magical adventure to explore togetherness in “AN ALTOGETHER MAGICAL ADVENTURE!” on Wednesday, July 5th at 10 AM. Some things go perfectly together, like Peanut Butter & Jelly or Soap & Water … & another perfect pair: Summer & Reading! Mr. Larry will engage & delight readers of all ages & encourage them to READ! Several books will be used during the show.

Coffee & Crafts: Coffee Resin Keychains

Wed Jul 5th 10:00am - 11:00am

Pinson Public Library, 4509 Pinson Blvd, Pinson, AL (Adults)

July 5th at 10AM

Coffee & Crafts is our monthly craft event for adults! Join us on Wednesday, July 5th at 10 AM to enjoy coffee & create a coffee resin keychain.

(Adults)

Monday, July 10th at 2 PM

From Victorian era school girls to a county coroner with an interest in grisly murders, Alabamians often saved mementos in scrapbooks. This talk explores scrapbook keeping & the keepsakes--visiting cards, photographs, letters, poems, theater programs, paper dolls, newspaper clippings--that people treasured and saved. Presented by Jim Baggett from the Alabama Historical Association’s Speakers Bureau.

Meditation with Anita Theart

Monday, July 10: 9:30am - 10:30am

Trussville Library - LBK Auditorium

Breath work and Meditation class for beginners with Anita Theart. This will be a six week series with the overall intention to offer the beginner the tools and inspiration to practice. Each class will be building on the previous

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Tuesday, July 11: 11:00am - 12:00pm Trussville Library - LBK Auditorium

The Friends of the Trussville Library (FOL) members support library staff by providing extra hands for special events and money for programs and prizes!

The Friends run a used book store in the library, stocked by donations which returns all proceeds for library use. Check the bookstore webpage or call the library for current hours.

Your membership benefits the library whether you become an active member, volunteer occasionally or simply send in your membership fee. A membership costs only $10/year. Join us today.

o bitua R y

Alex Moore Jr.

september 25, 1952 — june 16, 2023

Alex Moore was born september 25, 1952, to Fannie Louise matthews and Alex Moore sr. He was raised by his mother and her husband Albert Moultrie. Fannie was a dietetic clerk at lab hospital and Albert was a dedicated and talented tailor. Alex was a surrogate father to his siblings Angelo. Tony, Alfred, and his sister, Harriette.

Alex Moore attended parker high school from 1969 - 1972. During his enrollment, he joined parker high school's rotc program. Alex graduated in 1972, and that same year, he joined the us. Army.

Alex Moore married in 1974 to his only wife, ha cha jeong, and had four children: Latonya, Jannie, Shirley, and Alexander Moore jr.

Alex Moore is a grandfather to Victoria Paulino, Jayden, Alaina, And Caleb Brack Rashad. Brian, Katlyn. and Kristian Grayson, and Ispen and Steele Moore the heavenly father called alex home the morning of june 16. 2023. He is already missed.

Rene Girardeau

october 20, 1924 — june 19, 2023

Rene S. Girardeau, age 98, went home to meet the Lord June 19, 2023. Rene was born and raised near Huntsville, Al. She grew up as a "country girl' who loved horses and the outdoors. She attended Hazel Green High School where she excelled in both school and sports, especially basketball. She married the love of her life, Julian Merrill Girardeau, in 1944 after attending Auburn. They were blessed with 3 boys Allan, Bobby, and Rush. She was so proud to be their mother. She committed her tireless and selfless efforts to raise them. She was a faithful member of Huffman Methodist Church.

Rene is preceded in death by her parents Allan and Robbie Shamblin, husband, Julian Merrill Girardeau, sister, Janice A. Teel. She is survived by her three sons, Allan Jackson Girardeau, Robert M. Girardeau, Rush H. Girardeau, grandchildren, Jenny Girardeau, Julie Girardeau, Jason Girardeau, Jill Girardeau, Jackson Girardeau, Merrill lee Girardeau, Bowen Girardeau, Alicia Girardeau, and Brent Girardeau, and numerous great grandchildren.

Rene became a great cook, especially desserts. She had a fierce love of animals, especially her dogs, cat, and even horses.

While she did refer to herself as just an old "country girl;" she was so much more. She was a wonderful mother, has proved herself to be amazingly independent and self-reliant. She was a survivor until she was called home to be with the Lord. She will be remembered, loved, and greatly missed.

In lieu of flowers the family ask that donations be made to Birmingham Humane Society and Huffman Methodist Church. A graveside service for Ms. Girardeau will be held at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home and Gardens on Wednesday, July 5, 2023, at 12:00.

James Alan Armstrong

may 10, 1933 — june 27, 2023

James Alan Armstrong, 90, of Birmingham, AL was born May 10, 1933, and went home to be with the Lord June 27, 2023. James "Jim" is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Jo Ann Baker Armstrong; his daughters, Julie (Derek) Staples of Jacksonville, AL, and Janna Armstrong of Hoover, AL; grandchildren, Josh (Madison)

Staples of Chelsea, AL, Jordan (Katie) Staples of Prattville, AL, Andrew (Savannah)

Staples of Guyton, GA, great-grandchildren, James, Abigail, and Luke Staples, a sister, Mary Jean Muncher of Lillian, AL, and nephews Ian and Brett.

Jim was a native of Oneonta, AL, where he graduated high school in 1951. He attended Birmingham Southern for two years before being drafted into the Army during the Korean War. He later graduated from the University of Alabama. He retired from the Social Security Administration.

Jim was a member of Ruhama Baptist Church for 39 years and Huffman Baptist Church for 22 years. He taught Sunday School and served as a deacon for 60 years.

He was the shepherd of his family. Now he resides in the presence of the Good Shepherd and guardian of his soul, the Lord Jesus Christ.

Jim was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He will be greatly missed by his family and all who knew and loved him. He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry Grady and Myrtle McGill Armstrong. The family will receive friends on Saturday, July 1, 2023 from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm with a service to follow at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home.

AskEddie

How can pre-planning help me save money on my funeral?

Planning a funeral can be a daunting task, particularly when it comes to cost. One of the most valuable things you can do for yourself and your family is pre-plan your funeral. This approach alleviates emotional stress and can be significantly more cost-effective.

Yes, there are the expected costs, such as the casket and the burial plot, but it’s crucial to remember the less apparent expenses that also contribute. The embalming process, the funeral service itself, flowers to add warmth to the setting, the headstone, administrative fees, obituary notices, and even transportation form a part of the financial picture.

A key component of pre-planning is the ability to lock in prices. Most funeral homes, including our funeral home, offer contracts that allow you to pay for the funeral at today’s prices, regardless of when the services will be needed. The natural rise in prices over time can result in considerable savings. Moreover, these contracts often come with the option of payment plans, making the financial burden even more manageable by spreading the cost over time.

Beyond the financial benefits, pre-planning affords emotional peace of mind. Taking care of the funeral arrangements in advance relieves your loved ones from making difficult decisions during grief.

The importance of pre-planning cannot be stressed enough. Understanding the different elements involved, conducting market research, and locking in prices through a pre-need contract are steps that can lead to significant savings. More than that, pre-planning is an act of love and consideration for your family, ensuring that the focus remains on celebrating your life with dignity and grace.

205-322-0543

1591 Gadsden Hwy Birmingham, AL 35235

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

Timothy Adams

october 4, 1932 — june 22, 2023

Timothy Adams, beloved Dad, Paw Paw, uncle and friend, went to be with his Savior on June 22, 2023. He was preceded in death by: his cherished wife of 63 years, Evelyn Morgan Adams; his parents, Crozier “Pete” and Katherine Skipper Adams; six brothers, Roy, Zecue, Frazier, Elmer, Lawton and Hue Gene; three sisters, Carlue Thompson, Myrtie Oden and Leonia Pesnell; and several nieces and nephews.

Born in 1932 and raised on the family farm in South Vinemont, Alabama, Tim learned hard work at an early age. A natural athlete, he excelled in multiple sports, was selected for the all-district basketball team in 1951/52 while at Cullman High School, and played at Saint Bernard’s college. Tim’s pride in the family name, work ethic, and competitiveness carried over into his adult life. Whether cutting hair (his dream profession from youth) or doing yard work, he always gave his best. He built up the family business, Tim Adams Hair Designers, into an eastern Birmingham area fixture, served his community on the Jefferson County Barber Commission, and tirelessly supported his church home, Ridgecrest Baptist Church.

However, Tim will be best remembered for the way he combined his inner drive with his guiding principles and character traits. He made a decision to follow Jesus Christ at an early age, and biblical precepts deeply shaped him. His personal strengths read like Paul’s listing of the fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5:22-23.

Tim cared greatly for others, especially the weak and helpless, and had a special place in his heart for children. He was a joyful person, possessing a rich voice that he happily shared and a great sense of humor. Tim’s friendliness was legendary: he loved to see old friends and made new ones easily. Of barbering he often said: “I have a great job. I get to see my friends every few weeks.” Tim was strong and driven, yet gentle and patient.

Tim’s perhaps most outstanding trait was his faithfulness. He had faith in his own abilities, and others could fully rely on him. He was trusting of others as well. Most importantly, he trusted God. An unshakable foundation, his faith was free of doubt and free of judgement. Tim loved to share his testimony - during church visitation, but also with customers at work and even strangers. He trusted God’s designs for him and others. “Everything’s going to be alright” was his frequent encouragement. His optimism was contagious - and yet another reason it was so pleasant to be around him.

All these traits earned Tim the loyalty of his customers and made him a trusted voice in every decision-making body on which he served. At home, his sons sought the protection of his strong arms as boys, his reassurance as youths and his wisdom as adults.

Tim’s qualities were probably best revealed in his marriage to Evelyn. They formed the perfect team. She gave direction to his energy and purpose to his strength. He brought calm to her restlessness and delivery to her creativity. Whenever Evelyn found that a charitable project was needed (and that was often), she looked to him for support, which he gladly provided.

Tim loved to get things done, and Evelyn wanted things done right.

Tim enriched the lives of everyone he met. He is survived by: two grateful sons, Patrick (Mary Ashley) and Barry (Lyuda); five adoring grandchildren, Jacob, Ethan, McKenzie, Mathilda and Max; sister-in-law Sharon Morgan; a host of nieces, nephews and cousins; and countless friends.

The family would like to thank the staff at Peachtree Senior Living, Legacy Ridge Assisted Living, TLC Nursing Center and Enhabit Home Health & Hospice for the kind care Tim received over the last several years.

Visitation will be from 12:30-2:00 on Wednesday, June 28th, at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home and Gardens (1591 Gadsden Highway, Birmingham AL) with a celebration of Tim’s life to follow at 2:00. The burial will take place immediately thereafter. In lieu of flowers, consider a donation in Tim’s name to Ridgecrest Baptist Church (7789 Gadsden Highway, Trussville AL 35173).

Leigh Stack

august 4, 1956 — june 25, 2023

Leigh Anne Stack gained her angel wings surround by her loving family and friends. She was born on August 4, 1956, to Leo and Annie Ruth Stack. Leigh graduated from Ensley High School in 1974 and graduated from the University of Alabama in 1978. She graduated with a BS degree in Education. Leigh wanted to be a school teacher early on in life and her dream was fulfilled when she began her career with the Headstart Program in Fairfield for a couple of years. From there, she taught kindergarten for 38 years at Robinson Elementary School in Fairfield. There she touched the lives of so many little children. She called all of them “her babies”. She loved each and everyone of them. Leigh Anne was an avid Alabama football fan, loved to travel especially to Gatlinburg and the beach. Leigh had the biggest heart and was kind to everyone. She never met a stranger. Through all her long battles with sickness, she never complained.

Leigh Anne is preceded in death by her parents and her grandmother’s, Bonnie Ruth Rhodes and Mary Josephine Vallely Stack. She is survived by, her sisters, Donna Wiggins, Janie Egan, special cousin Dawn Kilrease, special friend Douglass Dickson, 4 nieces, several great-nieces and nephews, and a host of extended family and friends.

Larry Forte

november 19, 1957 — june 23, 2023

Larry Dennis Forte, 65, beloved Husband, Son, Father, Father-in-law, Grandfather, and Brother, was called to his eternal resting place on June 23, 2023. He entered this world on November 19, 1957, in Birmingham, AL, born to Clarence and Jaunita Forte. He is survived by his wife Vickie Forte; son Larry Forte; son Jeffrey Forte; daughter-in-law Lisa Forte; grandson Cooper Forte; daughter-in-law Amy Forte; grandchild Jeffrey Brayden Forte; grandchild Landon Forte; granddaughter Makayla Forte; granddaughter Kaylee Forte; grandchild Carson Forte; sister Dianne Barfield; sister Debbie Murphy; sister Dale Patterson. A memorial service will be held at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home and Gardens on Friday, June 30, 2023, at 2:00. Family will receive friends for a visitation from 1:00-2:00. Burial will follow in the adjoining cemetery.

Carolynne Blackwell Scott

february 10, 1937 — june 8, 2023

Birmingham

Carolynne B. Scott, a lover of the arts, left us on June 8 at Brookwood Medical Center. The daughter of Walter and Florrie Blackwell was born on 10 February 1937 in Birmingham, Alabama. Carolynne attended Crestwood Elementary and graduated from Woodlawn High School in 1955. While in high school, she was associated with one of the local department stores as a model. This is where she developed a sense of style that she carried throughout her life. Also, during this time, the love of music was nourished by the Birmingham Symphony. Her mother was an accomplished seamstress and made their dresses and gowns for the performances. Carolynne acquired this skill and later made her own pioneer dresses and aprons.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her former husband. She is survived by her son, Noel (Elena) and two granddaughters, Brigid and Charlize. The family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff on the fourth floor of Brookwood Medical Center for their care of Carolynne. Also, thank you, to the nurses and staff of Aspire during her stay at there. Services will be 29 June at 11 a,m, at Cathedral Church of the Advent in Birmingham with Rev, Cana Jay W Gardner officiating and Jefferson Memorial directing. The family will receive friends in Clingman Commons beginning at 10 a.m. Interment of the ashes will follow at Jefferson Memorial Gardens East in Trussville, AL.

Eddie

General

Birmingham Stallions hold victory parade after winning USFL championship

From The Tribune staff reports

BIRMINGHAM – The Birmingham Stallions held a victory parade on Saturday, July 2, to celebrate their

victory in the United States Football League (USFL) championship games. This was the Stallions’ second year in a row to claim the title, having defeated the Philadelphia

Stars on July 3, 2023, and this year defeating the Pittsburgh Maulers on July 1, 2023, at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton, Ohio.

The victory parade started

Hewitt-Trussville Youth Tennis Camp registration is open

From The Tribune staff reports

in front of Protective Stadium on Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd., at 2:30 p.m., and ended in front of Birmingham City Hall with appearances from the team, coaches, and the mascot.

TRUSSVILLE – The Hewitt-Tennis Center of Hewitt-Trussville Middle School will be holding a Youth Tennis Camp July 11-12, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. each day.

This camp is for first through sixth graders and

it will be held at the middle school campus. The cost is $100 per camper. For more information or to register your student, please contact Mike Higginbotham at michael.higginbotham@ trussvillecityschools.com or Cole Frederick at coleman. frederick@trussvillecityschools.com.

The Birmingham Stallions celebrate after defeating the Pittsburgh Maulers in the USFL Championship Game on Saturday, July 1, 2023. (Photo by Jason Miller/USFL/Getty Images for USFL)

Trussville man and grandsons have successful fishing in Orange Beach

By Crystal McGough Editor

ORANGE BEACH –

Nicky Barbee, of Trussville, and his two grandsons Andrew and Nate Barbee, of Rockvale, Tenn., had some great days fishing at Orange Beach recently, capping off their week with a huge black drum. The family visited Orange Beach June 17-24 to celebrate Andrew’s 11th birthday and Nicky’s 71st birthday.

“The boys caught 15-20 whiting each morning we were there,” Nicky Barbee said. “I got to bait hooks and take off many fish.”

Play ball! Birmingham makes MLB’s 2024 ‘Field of Dreams’ game at Rickwood Field official

By Trent Baker 1819 News

Tuesday, Major League Baseball (MLB) confirmed the report that Rickwood Field, the oldest professional ballpark in the United States, would be the site of a regular season game between the St. Louis Cardinals and San Francisco Giants in 2024.

On their last day, the Barbees fished for two hours, catching several fish.

“I was tired and ready to go in,” Nicky said. “We were out of bait as well.”

Andrew said he found one last piece of bait and asked, “Please, PaPaw, make one more cast?”

Although Nicky was tired, Andrew insisted.

“I could not deny his re-

quest,” Nicky said. “So it was the last day, last small piece of bait, and the last cast. The big fish hit immediately, and I passed the rod to Andrew. He fought the fish for about two minutes until it became too much and we were concerned the line would break. So, he passed the rod back to me and I fought it for another 15 minutes up and down the beach before landing it.”

Per the official announcement, FOX will provide exclusive national coverage of the game between the Cardinals and Giants on Thursday, June 20, 2024, at 6:00 p.m. local time.

The game, scheduled around the Juneteenth holiday, “will include a variety of activities as a tribute to the Negro Leagues and its

greatest living player – Hall of Famer, Giants Legend, Birmingham native and Birmingham Black Barons player Willie Mays,” according to the City of Birmingham.

The Cardinals and Giants will be sporting attire that will highlight the Negro Leagues’ histories of both St. Louis and San Francisco.

MLB commissioner Rob Manfred said the league looked forward “to sharing the stories of the Negro Leagues throughout this event next year.”

“We are proud to bring Major League Baseball to historic Rickwood Field in 2024,” said Manfred. “This opportunity to pay tribute to the Negro Leagues as the Giants and Cardinals play a regular season game at this iconic

location is a great honor. The legacy of the Negro Leagues and its greatest living player, Willie Mays, is one of excellence and perseverance. We look forward to sharing the stories of the Negro Leagues throughout this event next year.”

Birmingham and MLB will work together to renovate Rickwood Field to be able to host the event as well as a Minor League contest between the Birmingham Barons and the Montgomery Biscuits on June 18, 2024.

Mayor Randall Woodfin shared his excitement for the game on Twitter.

To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email trent.baker@1819news.com.

Nicky Barbee and his grandson Andrew show off a black drum they caught at Orange Beach (Credit: Nicky Barbee)

Nate Barbee (Left) and Andrew Barbee (Right), of Rockvale, Tenn., show off a whiting fish they caught at Orange Beach.

(Credit: Nicky Barbee)

AP Photo/Jay Reeves, File

Alabama’s Saban rated the best coach in college football; Auburn’s Freeze makes top 10

By Trent Baker 1819 News

The state of Alabama has two of the best head college football coaches in the nation, according to the Coach Rating Index.

Per Matrix Analytical Solutions, Alabama’s Nick Saban is the top college coach in the nation, while Auburn’s Hugh Freeze is the eighthbest coach.

Recruiting site 24/7 Sports, which released the Coach Rating Index for college coaches on Tuesday, described the Coach Rating Index as follows:

“The CRI is ‘a massive grading system with over 30,000 individual unit profiles and over 250,000 annual coaching result reports. If a coach was designated in an on-field role in that time span in either the FBS or FCS levels, he is in the database with a career number rating and accompanying career star rating.’

Position coaches are ‘graded on the cumulative play-by-play effectiveness of their unit.’ Coordinators are graded on per-play efficiency. Head coaches are ‘graded on their win and loss records broken down and weighted by difficulty/importance in nine distinct categories ranging from expected close margin games to how they perform in games with equivalent talent profiles.’”

The rating system was created in 2009, so the data used to determine a coach’s rating does not precede 2009. Also, the index does not take into account a coach’s success while coaching in the FCS.

The average coach in the index is rated 60 overall.

Coming in at eighth, Auburn’s Freeze was rated 82.01 out of 100.

The report had this to say about Freeze:

“Welcome back to the big time, Hugh Freeze. The coach returns to the SEC this fall after a seven-year sabbatical from an NCAA investigation that uncovered rules violations and a ‘pattern of personal misconduct’ at Ole Miss.

Freeze rebounded incredibly well at Liberty with 34 wins and a top-25 ranking in the polls during his four seasons leading the recently-elevated program in the FBS. Now we find out if he can step up at Auburn, where champi-

onships are not just expected; fans demand them.

Freeze built a 10-win team at Ole Miss on the back of five-star prospects like Laremy Tunsil, Robert Nkemdiche and Laquon Treadwell in 2015. Freeze beat Saban and Alabama in back-to-back years (2014 and 2015), and he led the Rebels to a No. 3 ranking in the national polls. The NCAA vacated 27 of Freeze’s 39 wins at Ole Miss, but he was 39-25 in five seasons from 2012-16. He also had the SEC’s most exciting offense in the early 2010s, when he not

only frustrated Saban but also threatened the power structure of the SEC. What does he have in store for an encore nearly a decade later? Well, the rebuilding job at Auburn is already underway. He signed 43 new players in the offseason, and his haul from the transfer portal (21 players) ranks No. 3 nationally.”

Alabama’s Nick Saban held off his disciple and winner of two straight national championships, Kirby Smart, to remain at the top of college football. His rating came out to 98.54 out of 100.

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS CITY OF TRUSSVILLE TRUSSVILLE, ALABAMA

COMMERCE LANE EXTENSION General Notice

The report had this to say about Saban:

“Possibly the greatest coach of all time is ranked No. 1 with a grade of 98.54, according to Matrix Analytical. That’s not a surprise, particularly considering the CRI began grading coaches in 2009, Saban’s first undefeated season at Alabama. Saban is 175-19 with six national championships during that time, and hasn’t finished with more than two losses in a single season since 2010. The legendary coach faces increasing pressure from within the SEC (yes, it’s still

City of Trussville (Owner) is requesting Bids for the construction of the following Project: Commerce Lane Extension

possible) as Georgia chases the first three-peat in modern college football history after drilling TCU to win the national title in January.

Alabama last won the national title in the pandemic-shortened season. If the Tide fall short of a national title this fall, it will mark the longest stretch (three years) without a national championship in Saban’s 17 seasons leading the Tide. Remarkable.”

To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email trent.baker@1819news.com.

Bids for the construction of the Project will be received at the Trussville City Hall Annex located at 113 North Chalkville Road, Trussville, Alabama 35173, until Tuesday, July 18, 2023, at 10:00AM local time. At that time the Bids received will be publicly opened and read.

The Project includes the following Work:

The work is generally described as a roadway extension project extending Commerce Lane to Camp Coleman Road which is approximately 1,650 LF of two-lane curb and gutter roadway. The project includes grading, drainage, base, curb, paving, and utilities. Bids are requested for the following Contract: Commerce Lane Extension

The Project has an expected duration of 180 days. The Contract will be paid for out of local funds immediately available to Owner. Obtaining the Bidding Documents

The Issuing O ce for the Bidding Documents is: Civil Consultants, Inc. 3528 Vann Road, Suite 105 Birmingham, AL 35235

Prospective Bidders may obtain or examine the Bidding Documents at the Issuing O ce on Monday through Friday between the hours of 9:00AM CST and 4:30PM CST, and may obtain copies of the Bidding Documents from the Issuing O ce as described below. Partial sets of Bidding Documents will not be available from the Issuing O ce. Neither Owner nor Engineer will be responsible for full or partial sets of Bidding Documents, including addenda, if any, obtained from sources other than the Issuing O ce.

Printed copies of the Bidding Documents may be obtained from the Issuing O ce by paying a deposit of $200.00 for each set. Bidders who return full sets of the Bidding Documents in good condition within 10 days after receipt of Bids will receive a full refund. Non-Bidders, and Bidders who obtain more than one set of the Bidding Documents, will receive a refund of $100 for documents returned in good condition within the time limit indicated above. Make deposit checks for Bidding Documents payable to Civil Consultants, Inc.

Bidding Documents may be purchased from the Issuing O ce during the hours indicated above. Issuing O ce will not ship documents.

Electronic copies, sent via e-mail only, of the Bidding Documents in PDF format are available upon request at no charge.

Pre-bid Conference

A mandatory pre-bid conference for the Project will be held on Tuesday, July 11, 2023 at 2:00PM CST at Trussville City Hall Annex, 113 North Chalkville Road, Trussville, Alabama 35173. Bids will not be accepted from Bidders that do not attend the mandatory pre-bid conference.

Instructions to Bidders.

For all further requirements regarding bid submittal, quali cations, procedures, and contract award, refer to the Instructions to Bidders that are included in the Bidding Documents. If you have questions about the bid process or the Project, please email your question in writing to J.T. Murphy at jmurphy@ccipe.com.

No bids will be received after the time of the bid submission deadline that is set forth above. The Owner reserves the right to reject any or all proposals, to waive technical errors and/or abandon the bid process if, in their judgment, the best interests of the Owner will thereby be promoted. Bids must be submitted on the Bid Form furnished with the Bidding Documents. The City reserves the right to hold bid proposals for a period of sixty (60) days after the date of receiving bid proposals. Each bid proposal must be accompanied by a bid bond or certi ed check payable to the City of Trussville in an amount equal to 5% of the total amount of the bid proposal, but not to exceed $10,000. Interested contractors shall submit their bid in an envelope that prominently displays the name and address of the contractor and the contractor’s Alabama license number with the date of renewal on the front of the envelope. Envelopes are to be clearly labeled Commerce Lane Extension – Bid Proposal – City of Trussville.

This Advertisement is issued by:

Owner: City of Trussville

Date: June 14, 2023

(Left) Nick Saban, (Right) Hugh Freeze. (Credit: 1819 News)

Outdoors

From page 10

“I’m not saying all technology is bad. I’m using a .410 now that shoots better than 12 gauges that I hunted with for 25 years. You’ve got Thermacells and turkey loungers and lightweight guns. We’ve got to take into account that people are much more effective killers. If you throw out the illegal activities, just the legal hunting methods are making people much more effective killers, and I don’t think people are giving that the attention it needs.”

For veteran hunters who remember when the turkey population in Alabama was not abundant, an outing where a hunter heard a turkey gobble was considered a successful hunt.

“It doesn’t seem like that’s the case anymore,” Sykes

said. “I think until people respect the bird and love the hunt and love the bird more than they love themselves, the birds are in trouble. People are turkey shooters now, not turkey hunters. “I didn’t grow up that way, and a lot of people of our generation can’t understand that mentality. That’s what I see. Again, I hope I’m wrong. I will gladly say that I am.”

Meanwhile, Mitchell thinks social media does have one upside for Alabama’s Eastern wild turkey.

“Social media has drawn more people into turkey hunting,” Mitchell said. “I don’t think that is necessarily a bad thing. I think a lot of it has called attention to the plight of turkeys and the perceived turkey decline. I think or hope people have gained education through social media more than anything.”

Mitchell said turkey hunters during the 2023 season enjoyed relatively cool temperatures, which can mean more comfortable hunting conditions later in the season.

“It may have helped the gobblers as far as gobbling and displaying later into the mornings,” he said. “We also had an early spring as far as vegetation. From anecdotal reports I’m getting from around the state, nests were being observed earlier than previous years. Hopefully that translated into a good hatch. The earlier the nest, the more of a likelihood a brood will successfully hatch young.”

WFF personnel will conduct its annual statewide brood survey from July 1 through August 30, when all turkey sightings are noted on field reports that include gobblers, hens without poults, hens with poults, the size of

the poults and poults per hen.

“Ultimately, that gives us a poult-per-hen count,” Mitchell said. “That gives an indication of how good our hatch was and juvenile recruitment into the fall population. Last year’s survey showed we were still below what researchers consider the threshold for sustainable population, which is two poults per hen. Unfortunately, we have been below that threshold for several years now.”

Mitchell said many of the hunters he has talked to about the 2023 season considered it a “pretty good” season with a decent amount of gobbling activity.

“Most of them don’t think it’s what it used to be, our numbers are not what they used to be, but they’re not panicking,” he said. “They’re still hearing gobblers and hunting gobblers, but that was the slight majority. Other

have stated their hunting was way down in terms of hearing gobblers and gobbles.”

“Anecdotal reports from landowners and land managers have been varied. Some have said they have not noticed a drop in turkey numbers while other landowners have noted a decrease in turkey numbers over previous years.”

The 2023 season has been over for almost two months, but Mitchell said landowners and leaseholders can use the offseason to be proactive about increasing beneficial habitat for turkeys on their properties.

“It’s habitat first and predator control as basically a steroid,” he said. “It’s about getting that habitat in a healthier condition to provide benefits for the wild turkey. After that, they can provide more benefit through trapping predators.

“Right now is a great time

to identify habitat needs. A lot of times the limiting factor is brooding habitat or bugging habitat for the poults. People may not like the look of a weedy mess around their property, but that’s where those young turkeys survive.” Mitchell also said the density of weedy growth can be a detriment to poult survival as well.

“If a poult cannot easily move through that vegetation to forage for bugs and escape predators, that is not good,” he said. “The density of that vegetation is very important. If it’s choked up with grasses, you might look at prescribed fire or disking. Everything is important at ground level.

“Thinning timber in places where sunlight is not getting to the ground will also help provide brooding and nesting areas. Everybody needs to think ‘habitat’ because that’s the key.”

Jaxon Epperson was able to take a turkey on his first hunt on youth weekend. (Daniel Sims, Jaxson Epperson, David Rainer)

WFF personnel will start the annual statewide brood survey on July 1. (Daniel Sims, Jaxson Epperson, David Rainer)