The Trussville Tribune – Jul. 26 - Aug. 1, 2023

Trussville Council

honors HTMS state champion mountain bike team with proclamation

By Crystal

McGough

Editor TRUSSVILLE – The Trussville City Council recognized the Hewitt-Trussville Middle School mountain bike

Argo approves hiring of new building inspector

By Terry Schrimscher

For the Tribune

ARGO – The Argo City Council met Monday night, July 24, for the second regularly scheduled meeting of the month. After discussing most of the current business in the work session prior to the meeting, the Council

Paul Davis and Brown Automotive to present ‘Rockin’ For Restoration’ addiction recovery event at the Trussville Entertainment District August 4

By Crystal McGough Editor

TRUSSVILLE – Paul Davis Restoration and Brown Automotive Repair, along with EXIT Realty, Energy Systems Southeast LLC, and The Trussville Tribune will be sponsoring a concert for a cause on the outdoor stage of the Trussville Entertainment District on Aug. 4, 2023.

Rockin’ For Restoration will be a night of music and entertainment for the community that will also serve as a fundraiser benefitting local addiction recovery nonprofit, the Will Bright Foundation.

The Will Bright Foundation was founded by local attorney Bill Bright and his wife, Trussville City Councilor Lisa Bright, in 2014 following the tragic loss of their son in 2012.

“Will started struggling with drugs in junior high, which led to bigger issues once he got into later years of high school and college

Fall Football Previews Page 15 Food Scores Page 2

Pinson Council hears about upcoming Butterbean Festival in October

By

Nathan Prewett For the Tribune

PINSON – Ronnie Dixon, who is the executive director of the annual Alabama Butterbean Festival, spoke about the upcoming event in October during a meeting of the Pin-

See TRUSSVILLE, Page 3 See PINSON, Page 5

Moody Council hears request for assistance with Relay For Life event

By Nathan Prewett

For the Tribune

Local independent film ‘Jublowski’ to release on Amazon Video on Friday

(where) it became a fullblown addiction,” Lisa Bright said. “He would always do well in recovery, but taking that next step was always a struggle. What do you do when you finish recovery? Where do you go? How do you get a job? All those things you have not learned how to do. You graduate and

Carlee Russell admits kidnapping was faked in a

it’s great, and they give you a piece of paper, and then, now what?”

After the loss of their son, Lisa said she and Bill knew if we were going to serve in any capacity, it would be in the area of helping others take that next step: what to do once they get sober and how they continue to stay sober.

She called it “the aftercare.”

After founding the Will Bright Foundation, the next step in their plan was to create a place where they could help men coming out of recovery programs take those next steps, so they began to look for land.

See ARGO, Page 5 See MOODY, Page 5 See ROCKIN, Page 4

Annual Paws for a Cause fundraiser to be held at Trussville Entertainment District

From The Tribune staff reports TRUSSVILLE — The fourteenth annual Trussville City Schools Foundation Paws for a Cause fundraiser is set to be held at the Trussville Entertainment District on August 19. Paws for a Cause benefits Trussville City Schools and the Athletic Foundation. Tickets are priced at $100 for early bird purchasers who get their tickets online and $125 for walk-ups. Each ticket is an entry into a $10,000 drawing.

Wins in the Bingo tournament also give an entry into the $10,000 drawdown. Entry into the Bingo game will be priced at $100 for early birds and $125 for walk ups. The Trussville Entertainment District, including Ferus and Pinchgut Pies, will all be open to the general public, only the $10,000 drawdown and Bingo are limited to ticket holding patrons. The Trussville City School Foundation advises guest

‘Dark

Asian concept Wow Bao available for order in Trussville

Leeds police arrest local man for illegal gambling operation

to eat in the downtown area before the event. Ferus and Pinchgut Pies will be open for food and drink orders.

Music is being provided by DJ Rockin’ Russ with Puttin’ on the Ritz

Trussville City Schools Foundation

Trussville City Schools Foundation is collecting items valued at $75 and up to be auctioned off online using a silent auction app.

Please contact Leslie Armstrong, at (205) 228-

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along with Leeds SWAT, conducted a search warrant in the

L oca L / R egion

Wow Bao is available for order in Trussville (Photo courtesy

Wow Bao

From front page

not-so-secret enterprise that some may have heard called a dark kitchen.

Trussville

team on Tuesday, July 25, 2023, for winning all five of their competitions over the course of the 2023 season and being named 2023 Middle School State Champions.

“This is the first middle school state championship team in the state of Alabama,” coach Lee Neal said. “Were looking good for ’24 – got a good roster coming up –hopefully we’ll be here next year.”

The City Council unanimously approved Proclamation 2023-15, stating that “the Mountain Bike team raced against hundreds of their peers from all over Alabama, as well as parts of Georgia, Mississippi and Florida; and … the Mountain Bike team went to Fort McClellan for their last state contest and proceeded to leave their rivals behind in the dust, with Evelyn Lolley winning among 7th grade girls; Isabelle Garver, 6th grade girls; and Lenwood

Jones finishing 2nd; and … 8th grader Lelan Neal, who had missed the entire season due to injury, had to start in the very last line-up position (109th) and finished in 1st place; and … Blake Burns, Nathan Harris, Cade Williams, Noah Touchton, John Toczko, Tyler Steele, Nicholas Davis, Oliver Dawkins and Brian Elmore improved their overall place for the season by at least 10 places.

“Now, therefore, be it proclaimed that the City Council of the City of Trussville, Alabama congratulates Hewitt Trussville Middle School, Head Coach Kirk Lovin, the entire team and their families on their successful season,” the proclamation ended.

In other business, the council approved the following:

• Ordinance 2023-015

ADM, regarding the city’s $6 million General Obligation Warrants Line of Credit

Resolution 2023-41, declaring various gymnas-

tics assets as surplus

• Resolution 2023-42, accepting streets throughout the Halcyon Subdivision Resolution 2023-43, approving a Turnmill Ridge Estates public right-ofway agreement

• Resolution 2023-44, awarding a commerce lane extension project to Milam & Company Resolution 2023-45, authorizing the installation of speed humps on Winslow Drive

• Resolution 2023-46, authorizing the mayor to sign a Glendale Farms maintenance agreement

During Council/Mayor

Reports and Comments: Councilor Jaime Anderson announced that the Veteran’s Committee will be filming a short clip of the Fallen Warriors Monument to show during high school football games.

• Councilor Perry Cook said that a Pray for Gray foundation is being founded to

help other children with traumatic brain injuries in honor of Grayson Pope, with plans to host a football tournament in September.

• Councilor Alan Taylor said Leadership Trussville met this past Friday and is in the process of selecting the next class.

• Councilor Lisa Bright said there will be a citywide school safety meeting Thursday, July 27, beginning at 8 a.m. This will be an all-day event starting at the Trussville City Schools Central Office.

The Trussville City Council meets on second and fourth Tuesdays of each month at 6 p.m., at the Trussville City Hall Annex. A workshop is usually held on the Thursday preceding the council meeting at 5 p.m.

Dark kitchens, also called virtual kitchens or ghost kitchens, are food entities that operate out of an existing restaurant on a delivery or pickup basis. The concept has been around for a while but soared in popularity during the pandemic when sitting down in a restaurant just wasn’t an option.

Now Trussville has one of these dark kitchens serving up the goods.

Wow Bao was founded 20 years ago as a fast casual Asian concept out of Chicago.

Wow Bao President and CEO Geoff Alexander said they launched their first so-called dark kitchen in 2019 and never expected how quickly the idea would grow, spurred on by the pandemic.

Wow Bao sells an eclectic mix of Asian dishes. The most prominent item on their menu is of course their bao buns that come in a range of flavors including teriyaki, BBQ pork, spicy Mongolian and even cheeseburger. For those who have never eaten one, bao is a soft, pillowy bun

usually filled with meat and vegetables. Bao can be purchased in packs of two or can be bundled with one of their rice bowls or potstickers. Both the bowls and potstickers can be purchased separately. ‘Famous fried rice’ is also available.

Alexander said they saw their concept as a way to help local restaurants to survive in the face of shutdowns in the pandemic and still see it as a tool for restaurants to increase revenue during lean times. “We wanted to help restaurants survive. We’re really proud of the fact that we were able to help. We wanted to help them put food on their tables and their employees tables,” he said. “We have a robust pipeline coming up and we’re proud of the partnership with Wing It On!”

Wow Bao can be ordered through Door Dash, UberEats and GrubHub. Orders can be placed from 11 a.m. – 8:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m.- 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 12 p.m. –8:30 p.m. on Sunday. These are the same operating hours as Wing It On!

For more information about Wow Bao and dark kitchens, you can visit their website at wowbao.com.

of Wow Bao)

HTMS state champion Mountain Bike Team and coaches with the Trussville City Council and mayor. (Photo by Crystal McGough)

July 28, 2023.

“Childhood friends Chaz Jublowski and Wendell Benson have known each other for years and have stuck by one another through thick and thin,” said Director and Chog Media CEO Austin Scarborough. “Now, during their senior year of high school, Chaz is ready to coast through until graduation. However, Wen’s motivation to make a student film before graduation and involve most of their school’s student body throws a curveball into Chaz’s plans. Along the way, the kids face all the difficulties that come with growing into adulthood, facing heartbreak and trying to accomplish a goal they couldn’t accomplish alone.”

The film previously premiered on May 26 at Birmingham’s Sidewalk Cinema and was subsequently selected for the Cobb International Film Festival in Atlanta, Georgia, which will take place next month.

“It’s very much been a process,” Scarborough said to The Tribune. “We’d already made several other films, which in many ways had a more difficult time on set. … Because (with ‘Jublowski’) we were making a movie that was about making movies, we knew how to do that.”

“Jublowski” is Chog Media’s third film in three years,

following “Remember the Light” and “New South Cottage,” the latter of which won a prize at the 2022 Texas Faith and Family Film Festival for Best Actor for Kate Hindman.

According to Scarborough, the subtitle for “Jublowski” is “or What it Feels Like to be the Main Character,” which he said “is intentionally a self-referential comedic reference, in that it’s referring to both musicians who like to put together playlists with humorous or ironic titles – like, this is a playlist that will make you feel like the main character – and that the main character of this film, Chaz Jublowski, is a musician and an actor in the story and the type of person that would put together a playlist like that.”

The film also comes with the tagline: “Despite what you might think, this is not based on a true story. Or is it?”

Scarborough said the purpose of this is to encourage viewers to guess at what events actually happened and what events didn’t.

“I can safely say that quite a few details were turned around,” he said. “Some of these things were fabricated; some of them were entirely original; some of them have been all too real. It’s a combination of it and we want to keep people guessing.”

Scarborough was a junior in high school when he and some friends founded Chog Theatre Troupe in 2019. Chog, he said, was an acronym for Creatives Helping Out in Groups. From there, the group grew into what is now Chog Media LLC.

The Chog Media team consists of Scarborough, CFO and Production Manager Anthony Berneche, Creative Director/Cinematographer Josh Hale, and Composer/Department of Music Head Ryan Owens.

Chog Media’s mission is to be, “A group of creatives helping others produce stories with excellence,” according to the company’s creative director, Joshua Hale.

More information on the film can be found on Facebook @ChogMediaLLC and on Instagram @ChogMedia.

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Lisa said she was eventually contacted by a person who owned property in Fayette, Alabama, originally intended for a retreat for ministers. In 2017, the owner donated the property to the Will Bright Foundation. The Brights opened Restoration Springs on the property a year later.

“That is where we are able to do what we said we wanted to do, and that is help men coming out of recovery transition into a better life. Into a life that has a job; learning how to manage money, get your driver’s license back … help you get your GED. Things that will help you advance as an adult and become the leader of your household,” Lisa said. “We went from almost giving up to, not only did we get a place, we got 127 acres with three cabins and a lake and a pavilion and all the things. God really showed up.”

Rockin’ for Recovery will help raise funds for the continued good work being done at Restoration Springs, as well as helping with scholarships the Will Bright Foundation provides for men and women who need assistance with intake fees for faith-based recovery programs. Funds are raised through the generous donations of the event’s sponsors, as well as any contributions made at the event.

While the concert itself is free, attendees are requested to make a $10 to the Will Bright Foundation if possible.

There will also be opportunities to purchase raffle tickets for prizes, and guests can round-up their restaurant tabs, with those proceeds going directly to the Will Bright Foundation.

The concert will be headlined by Birmingham-based

rock band Telluride and will also feature Birmingham-based country band Deputy 5, and acoustic duet Karen Dickey and Keith Shannon. The event is scheduled to kick off at 6 p.m.

The Will Bright Foundation is a 501c3 addiction recovery nonprofit with its mission being “breaking all barriers from addiction to recovery.”

Sponsors for this event include the Paul Davis Restoration, Brown Automotive Repair, EXIT Realty, Energy Systems Southeast LLC, and The Trussville Tribune. For more information on this event and the Will Bright Foundation, please visit https://willbrightfoundation. com/event/rockin-for-restoration/

For all

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Chog Media LLC

Courtesy of Will Bright Foundation

Courtesy of Will Bright Foundation

Courtesy of Will Bright Foundation

Courtesy of Will Bright Foundation

Relay for Life is a national event held by the American Cancer Society to raise funds for cancer research and treatment. Jennifer Price, a chair at the society, explained to the council that the event has not been held in St. Clair County for some time.

“As you know the race hasn’t been here for a while so I’m bringing it back on Sept. 16, at the St. Clair Arena,” she said.

She asked the council for support in getting team sponsors and collecting donations for the upcoming event.

“We want this to be the best relay ever since we haven’t had it in a few years,” she said.

She reiterated that the event will be held on a Saturday and humorously assured that no Alabama games will be playing that day. It will be held from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. In other business, the council:

• Approved Smith’s request for emergency repair to the police radio

repeater on Bald Rock for $2,352.92,

• Approve Smith’s request for lodging costs of $1,500 for him to attend the Department of Homeland Security Senior Leadership Academy August, with the amount to be reimbursed by Homeland Security, Approved Smith’s request to adopt a new officer contract for police academy attendants that includes prorated pay,

Approved Fire Chief Larry Horton’s request to purchase training supplies for fire safety for $4,000,

• Approved Horton’s request to purchase medical equipment for $1,575, Approved Horton’s request to purchase grill guard for Car 2 for $1,100, Approved Horton’s request to have yearly hose and ladder test done for $4,550,

• Approved Horton’s re-

Pinson

From front page son City Council on July 20.

“It looks like we’re going to have a record year,” he said. “This will be our 18th annual. It seems like it just keeps clicking off. I’ve been there for fifteen of them. So, it’s just something that keeps growing.”

Dixon said that the last event was financially successful, allowing them to continue distributing funds to charity and the local schools. In the next event, he said that there will be no major changes, though there may be more vendors.

facing at the tennis courts at Pinson Valley High School. Roberts said that they will seek to speak with the Jefferson County Board of Education to allow citizens to use the courts at night.

moved quickly through the brief agenda in less than 15 minutes.

The main item on the published agenda was approval of the hiring of Steve Tuttle as the city’s new building inspector. His hiring was announced at the July 10 meeting pending completion of certification exams.

Tuttle is a reserve police officer in Argo and is expected to work part-time as the building inspector for the city. The position starts at $20 per hour and is expected to begin with 16 hours per week. He previously served Argo as a city clerk.

Speaking to the Trussville

Tribune, Mayor Betty Bradley explained the purpose of a building inspector role in city growth.

“Building inspections help to ensure the quality and safety of both the construction process and the finished asset,” Bradley said. “Housing and building code enforcement not only helps to ensure the habitability of specific properties that are in violation of the code, but also helps to keep surrounding homes safe.”

Municipal building codes in Alabama are regulated by the Alabama Building Commission, which now uses the standards set forth in the International Building Code (IBC) 2021 edition. The inspector will work closely with

the new planning and zoning board to ensure new construction meets IBC standards.

The Council also approved $1,500 to purchase a laptop and supplies for the Building Inspector position.

The Council approved $8,125 from set-aside relief

quest to advertise for fire medic positions, and

• Approved Parks and Recreation Director Mike Staggs’ request to paint several rooms at the civic center for $3,800. Meetings are held on the second and fourth Monday of every month at 6 p.m. at Moody City Hall on 670 Park Ave. Nathan Prewett can be reached at nthomasp6@gmail. com.

funds for Goodwin Mills Cawood for work done to date on the Hwy 11 turn lanes leading onto Argo Margaret Road. The Council also approved for work to proceed on a grant application to install a barrier in the road at the train crossing. The barrier is designed to prevent traffic from going around the crossing arms.

The next meeting of the Argo council is scheduled for August 14, with a work session at 5 p.m. An agenda for each meeting is posted in local businesses including Hill Top Farms, Argo Hardware, Liberty Automotive, Shell, Southland BBQ, Fox’s Pizza and Buckeye Grocery. Agendas are also posted on the city’s Facebook page.

There will be a petting zoo, carnival, and a 5K like last year. There will also be a fireworks show that will be increased by six more minutes. He added that booths in the past year all have electricity now and will allow for lighting during the darker hours.

Dixon said that last year’s attendance was an estimated 45,000.

“I look forward to another great festival,” said Mayor Joe Cochran.

Afterwards Councilman Robbie Roberts announced that there will be a National Night Out event set for Sept. 19 at Bicentennial Park, at 6 p.m., and will be a joint event with the city of Clay. The council agreed to pay $750 for food.

It was also announced that the last Movies at the Rock will be held on Aug. 5, at 7 p.m., at the Rock School Center and will show the film, “Super Pets.” This will be a back-to-school event and a limited supply of school items will be given out.

Afterwards, the council discussed the possibility of resurfacing the football field at the Pinson Youth Sports Complex and putting a new irrigation system in place, as well as new sidewalks and making it more ADA-compliant.

The council also discussed possible lighting and resur-

Cochran said that the city was recently given a $70,000 grant from Sen. Shay Shelnutt for the potential project.

During public comments

Pinson Public Library Director Alison Scanlan said that the Summer Reading Program is coming to an end, with the finale week being next week and a finale for adult participants next Tuesday. She highlighted the “Touch A Truck” event recently where children were shown the vehicles and equipment used by the city.

And lastly, but certainly not least, it was announced that Councilwoman Clinteshia Irvin gave birth to a baby boy on the day before the meeting. His name is Avi Irwin.

“We want to say to Avi: Welcome to Pinson,” said Cochran. Roberts added that the population of the city went up by one the day before.

The meeting ended with the council going into executive session to discuss trade and commerce.

In other business, the council:

• Agreed to pay the Pinson Valley High School basketball coach and band leader each a $5,000 supplement.

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.

Ronnie Dixon (Photo by Nathan Prewett)

Mayor Joe Lee on July 24, 2023 (Nathan Prewett)

City of Argo Building Inspector Steve Tuttle

Leeds

From front page

7100 block of Elliott Lane to continue pursuing an illegal gambling investigation.

During the search, detectives located five illegal gambling machines, U.S. currency, and two handguns. Thomas Jeffery Bynum, 56, of Leeds was arrested and charged with five counts of possession of a gambling device and one count of promoting gambling.

“It is amazing that a person would bring and set up this type of establishment in such a great neighborhood,” said Leeds Police Chief Paul Irwin. “I appreciate the officers outstanding work in this operation and the many other operations they have been conducted on a daily basis.

Russell

From front page

Police Department in a press conference held on July 24, 2023.

Hoover Police Chief Nick Derzis read the following statement from Emery Anthony, attorney for Carlee Russell:

“My client has given me permission to make the following statement on her behalf. There was no kidnapping on Thursday, July 13, 2023. My client did not see a baby on the side of the road. My client did not leave the Hoover area when she was identified as a missing person.

“My client did not have any help in this incident, but this was a single act done by herself. My client was not with anyone, or at any hotel with anyone, from the time she was missing.

“My client apologizes for her actions to this community, the volunteers who were searching for her, to the Hoover Police Department and other agencies as well, as to her friends and her fam-

Annual FINEU fundraiser to be held at Trussville Entertainment District

By Chase Holmes News Reporter

TRUSSVILLE

— The annual FINEU fundraiser benefiting the Fine U Foundation will be held Saturday, July 29.

Thomas Bynum

We have a great team of law enforcement officers who are working to make Leeds a safe city to live, visit or work. Anyone with information on criminal activity are encouraged to contact our department and we appreciate the community’s assistance.”

Guests are invited to come out and enjoy a night of live music, a silent auction, and sweepstakes opportunities.

Live music will be performed by Reba’s Finest, 84: A Tribute to Van Halen, and Excitable: a Def Leppard tribute.

ily. We ask for your prayers for Carlee as she addresses her issues and attempts to move forward understanding that she made a mistake in this matter. Carlee again asks for your forgiveness and prayers.”

Derzis said the Hoover Police Department has a meeting scheduled with Emery Anthony to further discuss this case, adding that the department is currently in discussions with the Jefferson County District Attorney’s Office in Bessemer about possible criminal charges related to the case.

“We will announce those charges when and if they are filed,” Derzis said.

The Foundation suggests a donation of $10. All proceeds will be used to benefit the special needs community.

The Fine U Foundation was founded in Trussville by Kaitlyn Hughes. Hughes began this foundation in order to honor her Aunt Jennifer who had Down Syndrome. Kaitlyn also wanted to help the special needs community due to the friendships she has made through work with different special needs organizations.

12 indicted for firearms charges across north Alabama

From The Tribune staff reports

BIRMINGHAM – United States Attorney Prim F. Escalona announced that continued efforts to combat violent crime have led to federal firearms charges against 12 individuals on Thursday, July 20.

According to the Department of Justice, these indictments are the result of the collaborative efforts of federal and local partners to identify and focus enforcement on individuals who illegally purchase and possess firearms in the Northern District of Alabama.

“Felons who illegally possess firearms are major contributors to violent crime in this district,” U.S. Attorney Escalona said. “The fundamental goal of our violent crime work is to focus our enforcement actions on the individuals and criminal activities that drive violent crime in our communities. We will continue to work closely with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to pro-

tect our communities and to reduce the number of firearms in the hands of prohibited people.”

Last month a federal grand jury indicted 12 individuals across the Northern District of Alabama on a variety of federal firearm charges.

DeKalb County:

Mark Anthony Clines, 59, of Rainsville, was charged with felon in possession of a firearm. Miguel Angel Rojas, 31, of Valley Head, was charged with possession of an unregistered firearm.

Etowah County:

Michael Wesson, 66, of Southside, was charged with felon in possession of a firearm.

Jefferson County

Robert Elijah Allen, 29, of Birmingham, was charged with felon in possession of a firearm. Somer Lemere Ross, 27, of Birmingham, was charged with making a false statement to a federal firearms licensee dealer during the purchase of a firearm. Ross falsified documents by specifically stating that she

was the actual buyer when in fact she was buying the firearm for an individual who was prohibited from possessing a firearm.

charged with felon in possession of a firearm.

Tuscaloosa County:

Cornelius

Abodur Brownlee, Jr., 21, of Ensley, was charged with illegally possessing a machine gun, that is, a Glock 9mm pistol equipped with a “Glock switch” and possession of an unregistered firearm. Roderick Jimelle Needham, 23, of Birmingham, was charged with felon in possession of a firearm. Kenneth Lamont Crawford, 51, of Birmingham, was charged with felon in possession of a firearm. Mark Anthony Clifton, 37, of Cedar Bluff, was charged with felon in possession of a firearm.

Shelby County

Dennis Dewayne Dothard, 39, of Birmingham, was charged with Hobbs Act Robbery, brandishing a firearm in during and in relation to a violent crime, and felon in possession of a firearm.

St. Clair County: Christopher Allen Grooms, 40, of Ashville, was

Isiah Teanthony Joy, 31, of Cincinnati, Ohio, was charged with felon in possession of a firearm.

These cases are part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), which is the Department of Justice’s violent crime strategy to bring together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce gun crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders collaborate to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally-based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

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

Carlee Russell (Photo provided by Hoover PD)

Phil Williams: Try that in a small town

By Phil Williams, 1819 News Commentary

I saw a meme the other day that cracked me up. It had a picture of an angry monkey holding a pistol and said, “When it’s time to fight, you fight like you’re the third monkey on the ramp to Noah’s Ark … and brother it’s startin’ to rain.”

I don’t care who you are; that’s funny. Unless of course, you’re a liberal, in which case you would probably assess that simple meme through the layered lenses of grievance and victim-oriented dogma.

“How dare you call it a monkey! How dare you suggest a fight! How dare you invoke the Bible by mentioning Noah’s Ark!” Meanwhile, the rest of us just laugh because it’s really funny.

Liberals seem to have lost their sense of humor, or perhaps more aptly, they’ve just lost their sense of reality.

Case in point: Like many of you, I recently saw a music video of country music artist Jason Aldean playing live in front of the historic Maury County Courthouse in Columbia, Tenn., just south of Nashville. The video also plays a constant stream of images featuring riots, Antifa thuggery, BLM protests, robberies and looting, and general mayhem. All the footage is real and much of it was taken in just the last few years. Why would anyone want to showcase all that madness?

It’s a fair question, and the answer is simple when you realize that the song is called “Try That In A Small Town,” with lyrics like:

“Sucker punch somebody on a sidewalk

Carjack an old lady at a red light

Pull a gun on the owner of a liquor store

Ya think it’s cool, well, act a fool if ya like

Cuss out a cop, spit in his face

Stomp on the flag and light it up

Yeah, ya think you’re tough

Well, try that in a small town

See how far ya make it down the road

Around here, we take care of our own

You cross that line, it won’t take long

For you to find out, I recommend you don’t

Try that in a small town”

The song has been out since mid-May, but the video was just released. Both began playing in strong rotation with the video hyped on Country Music Television (CMT) for several days. Hitting a strong note with listeners, it was listed as the most downloaded country music song on the iTunes Top 100 list at the time of this writing.

What’s not to like?

Americans have watched the news in frustration and disbelief as “largely peaceful protests” burned American cities, tore down statues, and demanded the defunding of police. TV news replays security footage of innocent old men being stabbed as they run their bodega, old ladies being punched from behind on a dare, thugs on subways, Pride parade nudity … the list goes on and on. Then along comes Jason Aldean and puts our feelings to music, laying out a dare to try that in a small town.

But as salt-of-the-earth country music fans enjoy Al-

dean’s latest hit, liberal heads are exploding everywhere like cheap fireworks. Caving to angry progressives, CMT pulled the video without comment. One gun control activist from the national organization “Moms Demand Action” claimed that Jason Aldean, of all people, should know better, conflating this song with the fact that Aldean was present at the 2017 Las Vegas shooting which killed 60 and wounded 400. In reality, Aldean has earned the

right to sing loudly about being fed up with rampant violent crime. He lived through it and he knows the pain.

Another national “police reform” activist claimed that the song was … wait for it … racist, saying it was “just a racist dog whistle invoking urban crimes that we better not do in ‘his’ (sundown) town.” I had to look that one up. “Sundown town” is apparently slang for all-white municipalities or neighborhoods that practice racial seg-

regation via discriminatory local laws, intimidation, or violence.

Race-baiters say that the site of the video’s live performance is in front of a courthouse where a lynching took place nearly a century ago. Never mind that it’s also the site of a Hannah Montana film and a 2022 Christmas movie. By that measure, I shouldn’t have attended a play in Ford’s Theatre since Abraham Lincoln was shot there.

This is typical liberal

tripe. Attack the common man’s view but never once acknowledge that the underlying message is simply that people want criminal acts to stop. Is it asking too much for some of these same activists to realize for just one minute that real lives and livelihoods have been attacked over and over? Good people, innocent people, just trying to live and let live. But time and again, if you dare to be a Christian conservative, you’re the downfall of Western society and need to be dealt with before any more lives are destroyed by your very existence.

Jason Aldean is just singing what we feel. It’s really that simple. The average Joe and Jane want to be left alone, but the average Joe and Jane are also fed up. We know we are not racist. We know we are not oppressors. And we know that we don’t have privilege. We like guns, but we don’t plan to shoot people. We love our God, our families, and our country. We work hard, we play hard, and we step lightly because lashing out at folks is not what we do.

But push too far, threaten our family, malign our God, or burn our flag, and brother, you just became the third monkey on the ramp to Noah’s Ark, and you’d better learn to swim because you ain’t gettin’ on this boat.

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.

L ifesty L e My Life As A Hobby: The Class Reunion, aka, Who Are These Old People?

By Joe Hobby

“Life moves pretty fast.

If you don’t stop and look around every once in a while, you may miss it.” – Ferris

Bueller

I recently attended my Fiftieth anniversary high school reunion. That’s a lot to reflect on. Fifty years is a half century! It’s 600 months – 219,000 days. I didn’t compute the hours and minutes because it’s just too depressing.

A lot of water has gone under our bridges since we got our diplomas. It’s an extensive list, including: Watergate, disco, the oil crisis, Rodney King & the LA riots, MTV, Mount St. Helen’s, fall of the Berlin Wall, AIDS, the internet, mobile phones, the Challenger disaster, the Oklahoma City bombing, 911, the Simpsons, the Rover landing on Mars, and social media.

Not to mention ten Presidents.

And the general consensus of everyone at the reunion was, “Boy, that happened fast.”

Believe me, Millennials, it did. It will for you too.

When I walked up to a group of my classmates for the first time, my initial thought was, “who are these old people?” There was lots of white hair and bifocals. More wrinkles than an old linen suit. Upon closer examination, I began to recognize some of these codgers as my high school friends. Then it hit me: I’m a codger too.

As you might expect, some of my classmates had aged well. Some even looked fantastic, and that’s between them and their plastic surgeon. However, others looked

like they had gone one too many rounds with Father Time. Thank goodness for name tags.

After spending a few hours with my old friends, I came to a realization about time: it takes something away from us, but it also gives something back. There is no doubt that time steals our youth. No matter how good anyone looked, how much anyone exercised, or how healthy they ate, everyone at the reunion is approaching seventy. You can say “seventy is the new fifty” all you want. Seventy is still old.

However, time is a great equalizer. I couldn’t help but notice how the passage of time had eliminated the cliques that existed in our high school. At the reunion, all the sub-groups like jocks, nerds, thugs, and brainiacs were gone. The passage of time seemed to even things out between us. We had become part of one collective.

It was great fun to reconnect with people I haven’t seen since the Nixon administration. All afternoon, we caught up. Children, careers, and life experiences were all popular topics of conversation. And our health – which is a lot to talk about. When we were teenagers, about the only medical conditions that concerned us were pimples and jock itch. Now, it’s hearing aids, knee replacements, high blood pressure, acid reflux, and the settings on our CPAP machine. Damn you, time.

The great southern writer Rick Bragg once said that “nostalgia sells”. He’s right.

It seems that everyone at the reunion was fondly telling and retelling stories from those formative years so long ago.

Immaturity sells too. My old friend Randy told me about shooting Roman candles out of a hotel window on a field trip. Long time buddies Dan and Dale recalled pulling

in front of a bowling alley and mooning the patrons. Most of us rolled yards, egged houses, and blew up mailboxes with cherry bombs. My pal Mickey once dressed up as cheerleader and freaked out his English teacher by sitting in a less than ladylike position. To be honest, it would’ve freaked me out too. My best friend

Richard pulled out a rubber snake in front of a teacher who promptly fainted. Before you check on the statute of limitations, I’ll point out that everyone I just mentioned are productive, successful, citizens. But I still wonder why we did those kind of things.

Time passed quickly, and soon I began making a final

pass thru my classmates when I saw someone I missed –Darlene. We stopped, hugged and lied about how good each of us looked. She was the liar, by the way. I thought she looked just fine.

Only a few minutes had passed when I said,”I always think about Randy when I think of you.” Randy was a beloved classmate who left this world much too soon. At once, tears began flowing down her cheeks. “I can’t think of him without crying,” she sobbed. “ When Randy died, it was as bad as losing my mother.”

I responded, “We all miss him. “He was a great guy.” She nodded. “When we moved down here, Randy was the first person to reach out to me. He accepted me. He immediately made me feel like I was part of the group.”

And then she cried some more. I pulled her close to me and gently patted her back. No more words were necessary.

It was the perfect ending to a high school reunion. In a few short hours, I had revisited some of the most formative years of my life. I reconnected with old friends. I laughed at their stories, and I cried at their losses. And like everything else in life, it truly went by too fast.

Ferris Bueller was right.

Joe Hobby is a comedian from Alabama who wrote for Jay Leno for many years.

For more of Joe’s stories, go to: https://mylifeasahobby.blogspot.com/?m=1. Also, follow him on Facebook at: Joe Hobby Comedian- Writer

Joe Hobby, Tribune Columnist

utdoo R s

Gulf Reef Fish Trifecta available in August

By David Rainer Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources

Many anglers who venture into the Gulf of Mexico do it just for the wonder of experiencing the open sea, with the probability of hooking some of the many fish species available off the Alabama Gulf Coast. Others also are looking for that adventure but enjoy seeing the fish box loaded with species that make outstanding table fare.

If you fall into the latter category, August will be the time to book one of Alabama’s charter vessels to catch Alabama’s premier reef fish species – red snapper, greater amberjack and gray triggerfish. Private recreational anglers will have to wait to see if any red snapper quota remains in August, but they can definitely enjoy the amberjack and triggerfish fishing.

Unlike last year, when the season ended on October 31, anglers will only have a short window to take advantage of the greater amberjack fishing this year. NOAA Fisheries recently announced a significantly reduced amberjack season for 2023 of August

1 through August 24. The recreational amberjack quota is 335,320 pounds with a daily limit of one per angler and a 34-inch minimum fork length.

“As the announcement mentioned, greater amberjack is considered to be ‘overfished,’ which means too many fish have been harvested and the stock is too low, and it is experiencing ‘overfishing,’ which means too many are being caught,”

said Scott Bannon, Director of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources’ (ADCNR) Marine Resources Division (MRD).

“NOAA Fisheries has an obligation to protect the species. The Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council (Gulf Council) is involved in that. Previous efforts weren’t helping, so stricter catch limits were instituted. To keep the harvest in check, it required

modification to the commercial and recreational quota. If the quota is not met during the August time period, it will reopen in May 2024.”

The August season for amberjack applies to both federally permitted for-hire vessels (charter boats) and private recreational anglers because the species is not regulated under sector separation like red snapper, which has separate quotas for for-hire

ACTION TREE SERVICE

vessels and private recreational anglers.

Bannon hopes the private recreational anglers, who are allowed to fish for snapper on Friday-through-Monday weekends, will be able to enjoy the bottom-fishing trifecta of amberjack, red snapper and triggerfish in August, but the private recreation angler snapper season is determined by the projection of when its quota of 591,185 pounds will

be met. As of July 17, recre-

ational anglers had landed 443,027 pounds of red snapper.

“During most of the month of August, you can definitely catch snapper, AJs and triggerfish on for-hire boats,” he said. “For the private anglers, we’re averaging about 72,000 pounds of snapper a weekend. Traditionally this time of year, the snapper catch drops. The fish seem to be harder to catch

in July, so it will be interesting to see if any recreational snapper quota remains after the rodeo (Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo at Dauphin Island July 21-23).

“For all the recreational anglers, whether for-hire or private angler, it’s always a challenge to realize the benefits of season dates across the Gulf.”

See OUTDOORS, Page 10

The greater amberjack season in the Gulf of Mexico opens on August 1 and ends at midnight on August 24. (David Rainer, Barry Collier)

Bannon said some anglers are reporting catching smaller red snapper than recent years, but that doesn’t apply to all bottom fishermen.

“Our staff surveyed a 40-pound red snapper during one of our dock checks,” he said. “That is a hoss. When they get that big, they don’t look real and can be 40 to 50 years old. But our staff also checked several snapper in the 20s.”

Bannon said in addition to the monster snapper, a couple of unusual species have been reeled in from the deeper waters of the Gulf. When one application for a state record was submitted, it was thought the species was a splendid alfonsino. With a weight of 10 pounds, 12.32 ounces, it was a potential world record. The MRD marine biologists wanted to make sure of the species before they proceeded.

“We don’t see alfonsinos in Alabama very often,” Bannon said. “Some folks in Flor-

ida had more experience and we sent it down there. There were still some conflicting opinions on identification. Because it could have potentially been a world record, we sent it to Texas to be DNA tested. The lab at Texas A&M identified it as an alfonsino and not a splendid alfonsino. It is a state record but not a world record.”

Bannon said modern technology and faster boats are allowing anglers to probe deeper waters, which results in rarely seen species being landed.

“We’re starting to see a lot more deep-water species,” he said. “People are fishing deep-drops more often. Between the electronics and safety equipment and speed and range of the boats, people are more comfortable fishing farther offshore.”

Another unusual species landed recently was the oscillated frogfish. However, this fish was deemed ineligible for record status because of the fishing tackle, a bandit rig, that was used. A bandit rig is

that can be turned by hand, electric motor or hydraulics.

“To be eligible for a state record, the fish has to be reeled in by a traditional rod and reel by a single angler,” Bannon said.

Bannon said the inshore species of speckled trout (spotted seatrout) and flounder seem to be in good shape after recreational creel limits were changed a couple of years ago. The speckled trout limit is six per angler per day with a slot limit of 15 to 22 inches with an allowance for one fish larger than 22 inches per day. The flounder limit is five per person per day with a 14-inch total length minimum.

complaint. Those were very positive changes. We’re doing an assessment for southern flounder and spotted seatrout with the University of South Alabama this year. Hopefully by next summer we’ll have the results.

“I currently don’t see any needs for additional regulations. The trout population seems to be healthy, and flounder are recovering. We’re excited about that, but I want to see what the science tells me. Social media and the phone calls are giving me feedback that the flounder are doing well. “

a short-armed device mounted to the boat with a large reel

“The public has been very supportive of the changes we made in the speckled trout and flounder regulations,” he said. “I have not heard one

In other news, on August 11, Dr. Anthony Overton, Chair and Professor for Samford University’s Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, will become Alabama’s newest member of the Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council. Overton is a life-long recreational angler and is also Graduate Director for Masters in Environmental Health, Policy and Management for Howard College of Arts and Sciences. Overton previously served as a member of the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission and as a member of the International Committee for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas.

Clinic

The gray triggerfish season in the Gulf opens on August 1 and runs through the end of the year. (David Rainer, Barry Collier)

An oscillated frogfish was caught earlier this year but was not eligible for a state record because of the gear used to land the fish. (David Rainer, Barry Collier)

c a L enda R

SSG Michael W. Hosey American Legion Post 205 7257 Old Springville Road, Pinson, AL.

Post Service Officer on Duty every Monday, 1 – 5 PM.

Meets the second Monday of each month at the Clay Community Center on Old Palmerdale Road at 6 PM. Call 205-317-0948 for information.

M. W. Hosey American Legion Post 205 will be at Trussville City Fest 16 September 2023. Come join us and visit with fellow Veterans and share your experiences.

Yarn Manglers - Knit & crochet group

Thursday, July 27: 2:00pm - 4:00pm

Trussville Public LibraryCahaba Room

AGE GROUP: ADULT (AGES 18+)

EVENT TYPE: DROP-IN, CRAFT, ADULT PROGRAM

If you are interested in sewing items for charity (pillow covers, blankets, bibs, bags, etc.), stop by to work on some projects! Fabric and patterns will be provided; you may bring a sewing machine or do some hand sewing. Beginners are welcome! If you are unable to attend, but are interested in future participation, please contact the Adult Department at tr.adult@jclc.org.

We are hoping to make this a regular program.

Glow Party: Teen Finale

Thu Jul 27th 5:00pm7:00pm

Pinson Public Library, 4509 Pinson Blvd, Pinson, AL 35126

EVENT TYPE: EXERCISE/ ACTIVITY, CLASS, ADULT PROGRAM

One G4 is capable of full 24/7 oxygen delivery. Only 2.8 pounds. FREE information kit. Call 844-322-9935.

ATTENTION: VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS! A cheaper alternative to high drugstore prices! 50 Pill Special - $99 + FREE Shipping! 100% guaranteed. CALL NOW: 866505-0828.

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

Sewing for Charity

Thursday, July 27: 6:00pm - 7:45pm

Trussville Public LibraryParkway Room

AGE GROUP: ADULT (AGES 18+)

EVENT TYPE: CRAFT, ADULT PROGRAM

(Teens)

Thursday, July 27th, 5 to 7 PM

Celebrate the end of another successful teen summer reading program during our Glow Party Teen Finale! This party will be lit with black lights & glow sticks! Enjoy snacks, games, music, & other glow-in-thedark activities.

Ferus Presents: DieDra and the Ruff Pro Band Jul 28, 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Trussville, 101 Beech St Suite111, Trussville, AL 35173, USA

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

Friends of the Trussville Library - Monthly Meeting

Tuesday, August 01: 11:00am - 12:00pm

Trussville Public Library -

LBK Auditorium

AGE GROUP: ADULT (AGES 18+)

EVENT TYPE: ADULT PROGRAM

& Families! To learn more, call 866-475-1014 (M-F 8am-6pm ET).

HEALTH/BEAUTY

ATTENTION OXYGEN THERAPY USERS! Inogen

Come join us for a fun night of live music with Diedra and the Pro Ruff Band.

DieDra is an International award winning blues artist and we are excited to have her on the Trussville stage.

Diedra and the Pro Ruff Band will be showcasing original songs and covers from some of your favorites.

Meditation with Anita Theart

Monday, July 31: 9:30am - 10:30am

Trussville Public LibraryLBK Auditorium

AGE GROUP: ADULT (AGES 18+)

The Friends of the Trussville Library (FOL) members support library staff by pro-

viding 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

FOR SALE

Burial Plots for Sale: LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION! Four burial plots for sale at Jefferson Memorial Gardens. Plots are located in the highly coveted Twin Addition Garden. The neighborhood is super quiet! If purchased from Jefferson Memorial plots are $4,095.00 each. Will sell for $3,275.00 each OBO. Seller will pay transfer fees. Call today! (205)229-8756

2 Burial Plots - Jefferson Memorial Gardens located in the Garden of Love section. List price is $3795 per plot asking $3000 per and $5800 for both. Contact John Chisholm at 205-500-3101

DirecTV Satellite TV Service Starting at $59.99/month! Free Installation! 160+ channels available. Call Now to Get the Most Sports & Entertainment on TV! 844-5947108

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UPDATE YOUR HOME with Beautiful New Blinds & Shades. FREE in-home esti-

returns all proceeds for library use. Check the bookstore webpage or call the library for current hours. Your membership benefits the library whether you be-

mates make it convenient to shop from home. Professional installation. Top quality - Made in the USA. Call for free consultation: 844-8099165. Ask about our specials! Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today. 20% off Entire Purchase. Plus 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-833-6832005

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SUPPORT THE BLIND! Donate a car to the American Council of the Blind. FAST FREE PICKUP. 24-hour response. Running or not. maximum tax deduction and no emission test required! Call 24/7: 844-601-1342.

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VEHICLE TITLE Problems? We have a solution! Call Jason Steward Enterprises, We’re Alabama’s #1 Vehicle Title Problem Experts! Free telephone consultation. North AL 1-256-850-0527, Central AL 1-205-267-5735, South AL 1-251-342-8538.

come 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

Jeanna Cork

november 8, 1948 — july 16, 2023

Jeanna Verciglio Cork, age 74 of Trussville, AL passed away peacefully on July 16, 2023. She was born to John and Bobbie Jean Verciglio on November 8, 1948. She attended West End High School where she met and went on to marry her high school sweetheart on June 26, 1970. Jeanna loved spending time with her family and friends and hosting parties for all.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Mickey Cork; parents, John and Bobbie Jean Verciglio; brother in laws, Tommy Cork and David Harris.

Jeanna leaves behind her daughter, Beth Tully (Tim); son Michael Cork (Jamie); grandchildren, Nick and Tyler Tully, Avery and Alex Cork, Elly, Zane and Blaize Bishop; brothers, Joe Verciglio (Jan) and John Verciglio (Lisa); in-laws, Sandra Cork Harris of Florence and Marlene Von Duyke of Atlanta. She also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and special friends. The family received friends on Friday, July 21, 2023, from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm with a service in her honor to follow at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home. A private family burial will follow. In lieu of flowers please make memorial contributions to your favorite charity.

Donald Trawick

september 9, 1943 — july 15, 2023

Donald Towns Trawick, age 79, passed away Saturday, July 15, 2023. Don was born September 9, 1943, to Oaty and Elizabeth Trawick. He attended Murphy High School and from there he went on to study at the University of Alabama where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Commerce and Business Administration and was a member of Theta Chi. After graduating from The University of Alabama Don attended the Cumberland School of Law at Samford University and was a member of the Phi Alpha Law.

Don was a near lifelong resident and practiced Law in Birmingham, AL. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, football, diving, and shooting. He was an NRA member as well as a Shooting Instructor. He taught his kids shooting and safety at the Magic City Gun Club, as well as receiving numerous shooting awards, certificates, and plaques for his excellence in his own shooting abilities. Don had a passion for helping others. He loved working with children and made it a career of teaching Gun Safety.

Don was preceded in death by his father Oaty A. Trawick, mother Elizabeth R. Trawick, and his loving wife Jeanette Trawick.

Don is survived by his daughter Sarah (Jon) Gallant, stepdaughter Lisa (Dan) Nail, stepson Ken Harwell, sister Adair

T. Walker, nephew Jonathan (Lisa) Trawick, niece Julie (Van) Eberhard, niece Beth (Eddie) Merrill, grandchildren Sam Gallant, Anna Gallant, David Gallant, Abby Harwell, Dillon Morrison, and Wade Morrison.

A graveside service will be held Tuesday, July 25, 2023, at 11:00 at Jefferson Memorial Gardens.

Carolyn Olive

october 11, 1933 — july 18, 2023

Carolyn Holston Olive was born on October 11, 1933. She passed away peacefully on July 18, 2023. She was the daughter of Vernon and Carline Holston.

Carolyn was preceded in death by her husband of 61 years, Robert. She is survived by her children Bobby (Lynn), Jimmy (Nancy), Cheryl (Mark), and Janet (Mike). Carolyn was also Mimi to 10 grandchildren and 21 great grandchildren. She leaves behinds numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

Carolyn was christened, baptized, and married at ACIPCO Methodist Church before becoming a member of Huffman United Methodist Church for many years. Aside from her family that she loved so dearly, Carolyn found joy as an avid flower gardener and loved the view from her sunroom surrounded by plants inside and out. She hosted every holiday she was able to and always welcomed folks into her home. Carolyn will be missed but remembered fondly by so many. Services will be held at Jefferson Memorial Friday July 21, 2023. Visitation will begin at 11:00am immediately followed by the service and graveside Scripture reading in the Faith Garden.

AskEddie

Why Do We Use Flowers at Funerals?

Flowers at funerals are no new idea, as they have been found at ancient Neanderthal burial sites dating back to 60,000 B.C.E. However, they have only sometimes been used as decoration or a symbol of sympathy and emotion. Instead, their origin is much more practical.

Before embalming, which started in the 1800s, flowers were used to cover up some of the natural processes of the deceased. Ancient writings, as old as the Talmud, have referenced fragrant flowers and spices used in such a manner.

To keep an attractive way for loved ones who wanted to say goodbye to the departed, flowers personally created a more welcoming environment. Flowers were readily available and naturally scented, making them an ideal alternative to perfumes.

In the Victorian era, the deceased was set out in the family’s home for many days; large bouquets were used to maintain a fresh and welcoming atmosphere for visitors. Many of the shapes of funeral arrangements we see today originate from this period.

While the historic use of flowers in funerals has changed, there are a few other key reasons why they are still essential to many burial rites. First, they are symbolic. After embalming became commonplace, flowers became a symbol and took on many forms, including the circular wreath, which reminded onlookers of eternal life.

From its original purpose of offering a fresh scent during funeral procedures, blossoms are modernly used to send comfort messages to those mourning. Flowers also represent the character of the person who has passed. By incorporating them into the service, blossoms create a blissful environment for those who are saddened by the departure of their loved ones.

Jefferson Memorial

205-322-0543

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

Carol Taylor

june 24, 1938

— july 13, 2023

Carol Louise Hendricks Taylor of Lake Jackson, Texas went home to be with the Lord on July 13, 2023. She was born June 24,1938 in Birmingham, Alabama to the late George and Jesse Hendricks. She graduated from Woodlawn High School. She married her childhood sweetheart, Hoy Lewis Taylor on February 22, 1957.They celebrated 65 years of marriage prior to Hoy’s death in 2022. Carol worked for Southern Company for many years. In 1968 she and Hoy built their dream home on a beautiful, wooded property in Pinson. Within their home children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren giggled and played.

Many pets came and went including their beloved Maltese, Zeke. Carol loved to travel with her husband Hoy, including trips from Maine to Mendocino and all points between. Switzerland being the crown jewel of their journeys.

Mom had the heart a teacher. She was an accomplished pianist and was gifted with a beautiful singing voice. She shared her love of music through teaching piano. Music moved her in life and in worship. Mom was unique, eccentric, and that is how she saw and lived her life. Her “naughty word” lesson plan to teach her grandson, Ben, to read was classic “Mer Mer”. Her children remember the summer day trips with their mom and her friend, Sue Abramson. Her grandchildren remember her teaching them to play cards, by the way, she always played to win. She taught the Bible throughout her life her last class ending just weeks ago. All teachers are students at heart and our mom was no exception. She completed her Associate Degree in Secretarial Science at Jefferson State Junior College in the 1980’s. At the age of 59 years, she returned to Samford University completing her Bachelor’s Degree in General Studies.

Carol is survived by her son Craig Lewis Taylor and wife Sandy of Lake Jackson, Texas; daughter Lori Taylor Evans of Pinson, Alabama; son David Selden Taylor of Oneonta, Alabama; her grandchildren include Tiffany Taylor Lunsford of Lake Jackson, Texas; Nathaniel Lewis Taylor of Adliswil, Switzerland; Jerry Dean Evans of Birmingham, Alabama; Jennifer Evans Cook of Helena, Alabama; Michael Benjamin Evans of Alabaster, Alabama; LaLane Taylor Arrington of Kimberly, Alabama; Shelby Taylor Raulston of Pell City, Alabama; John David Taylor of Andalusia, Alabama; Sarah Taylor Tekulve of Oneonta, Alabama. Carol is also survived by her brother, George Hendricks and wife J.R. of Destin, Florida; sisterin-law Elsie Taylor Mason and husband Walter; and a multitude of great grandchildren.

Carol was preceded in death by her husband of 65 years, Hoy Lewis Taylor; parents, George and Jesse Hendricks and her beloved aunt, Sunset Cleckler Bowden.

Friends were invited for a visitation at 11:00 am, followed by a service at noon on Thursday, July 20th at Jefferson Memorial Chapel in Birmingham, Alabama.

Kimberly Pullen

august 13, 1960 — july 15, 2023

Kimberly Lee Pullen, 62, of Leeds, Alabama died Saturday, July 15, 2023 at the Princeton Baptist Medical Center in Birmingham, Alabama.

A Celebration of Life gathering, and visitation was held on Wednesday, July 19th at the Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home in Trussville, Alabama from 5:00pm-7pm.

Mass of Christian burial will be led by Father Patrick Ameldeka at the Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Creston, Iowa, followed by burial with place and time forthcoming. Memorials are kindly made to the family, with online condolences made at www.powersfh.com.

Kimberly Lee (Davenport) Pullen, daughter of Merrill Lee Davenport and Shirley Ann (Dix) Davenport was born August 13, 1960, in Greenfield, Iowa. Kim was her name to most people who knew her, attended Creston High School where she graduated with the class of 1979. After graduation, Kim attended college at Southwestern Community College and continued her education in Lansing, Michigan.

On April 26, 1980 Kimberly was united in marriage to Gregory Allen Pullen at the Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Creston. They welcomed their first son, Travis in 1982. While living in Creston, Kim worked for Jane Brown for nine years until relocating with her family to Michigan in 1988.

While living in Michigan, Kim and Greg welcomed a daughter, Sheena in 1989. Kim worked at the Livingston Medical Center business office as well as Citizen Insurance. In 1997, Kimberly and her family relocated to Alabama to pursue new opportunities and make their home in the Birmingham area. As the kids grew and became involved in sports Kim found herself at the baseball and softball fields watching Travis and Sheena. It was enjoyment for everyone and Greg even got involved in some coaching. Kim enjoyed being able to catch up on the goings on with friends via Facebook. While working in Alabama, Kim got pleasure in assisting her elderly customers at her workplace. They enjoyed college football games. Kimberly enjoyed cooking and made a mean cherry cheesecake according to Greg.

Kimberly is survived by her husband, Gregory Pullen of Leeds, Alabama; her mother, Shirley Davenport of Creston, Iowa; mother and father-in-law, Angela and Duane Pullen of Waukee; her children, Travis (Lacy) Pullen and Sheena (Trent) Jones; brother and sister-in-law, Rich and Jackie Pullen; a sister Karin (Tom) Freml of Creston, Iowa; several nieces and nephews, Hilaree Freml; Meagan Freml; Jared (Heather) Freml; Jackson Freml; Joel (Jennifer) Pullen, Charlie Pullen; Jeff (Lisa) Pullen; and her three grandchildren, Kyleigh Ann Self, Kylie Rae Jones, and Tristan Jones. Kimberly was preceded in death by her father, Merrill Davenport, her grandparents, Hubert and Fern Dix, Alvin and Margaret Davenport, Curly and Alice Pullen, a son Trent Pullen and daughter Callie.

Kimberly, my little sister, who was such a trooper in this life battling almost from the start diabetes…….You are missed already and very loved……until we meet again. Karin

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

Eddie Seal, General Manager

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Shades Valley retires Daron Payne’s high school football jersey

By John Goolsby

For the Tribune

IRONDALE-Friday night

was a big night for Shades Valley High School and Irondale native Daron Payne.

Payne, a former All-SEC player at the University of Alabama and current All-Pro defense tackle with the Washington Commanders, had his number 94 jersey retired in a ceremony on the Shades Valley campus. Payne became only the third Mountie to have their jersey retired. The 6-foot3, 320-pound tackle joins Auburn All-American and Philadelphia Eagle Ben Tamburello (no. 55) and the late Bonkey McCain (no. 71) with that honor.

Payne was humble in receiving the honor. “It’s really not about me,” he said. “It’s about all of y’all. All of you who helped me get to where I am today. I know for a fact that I couldn’t do this myself.”

Mayor James Stewart also presented Payne with The Key To The City of Irondale.

Payne didn’t just receive during the ceremony. He gave. The 13th overall pick in the 2018 NFL draft gave $100,000 to his old school’s athletic department.

“I love this place,” Payne

said. “I love Shades Valley. I want to see this place better. I want us to have nice things here.”

“You just don’t know what that amount can do for an athletic program,” said Shades Valley Head Coach and Athletic Director Rueben Nelson.

The 2015 graduate helped William Smith’s Mounties to a 19-5 record in 2013 and

2014. Valley was ranked in the top ten 18 of 22 weeks during Payne’s junior and senior seasons.

Four of the five Mountie losses came to state champions Hoover and ClayChalkville and state semi-finalists Vestavia and Florence.

“Daron never missed a workout or a practice,” said Smith. “Not once did I ever

have a teacher or administrator say to me “Coach Smith, can you help me with Daron, his attitude is bad in my class or he’s being disrespectful.”

Payne was a consensus five-star recruit, the number one recruit in the state, the third rated defensive tackle and the number 19 overall prospect in the nation accord-

ing to Rivals.

Payne was selected to the 2014 Alabama vs. Mississippi All-Star game and the 2015 U.S. Army All-American Bowl.

Inexplicably, Payne, the consensus number one player in the state, was not voted to the first or second All-State teams by the Alabama Sports

Writers Association.

Payne chose Alabama over Auburn, Florida State, Clemson and Georgia. Payne is thankful for his time at Valley. “I needed guidance and I got all my guidance from everyone in this building,” he said.

Former Shades Valley and current Washington Commanders defensive tackle Daron Payne has his high school jersey retired. Photo by: John Goolsby Daron Payne donated $100,000 to his home town school, Shades Valley, on the night of his jersey retirement ceremony.

Photo by: John Goolsby

See SHADES VALLEY, Page 16

Trio of Tribune players make AHSAA Basketball All-Star game

By Johnny Sanders Sports Editor

TRUSSVILLE – Basketball’s regular season may be in the books, and it was a very good season for Tribune teams in 2022-2023, but the season continued for a few of the area’s best players. Hewitt Trussville’s Jordan Hunter and Reid Stodghill and Pinson’s Caleb White travelled to Montgomery for All Star Week, competing in the boys’ and girls’ all-star basketball games on Tuesday.

First up for the day were the girls and Hunter and her North squad dominated the South, winning by a score of 80-44. Just like she did for the

Huskies during their season, Jordan led her team all the way. In 16 minutes of play, she scored 15 points and snatched 5 rebounds. “The experience was really good, especially my coaches, “said Hunter. “It was so good playing with some of my teammates and also playing with some of the players I am used to competing against makes for a great show.” As is usually with the case with great athletes, Hunter was not completely satisfied with her performance. “I thought it wasn’t my best performance but overall, I was enjoying the moment and enjoyed cheering on my teammates. It was just a blessing to go out there and do my thing.”

Hunter’s mother and coach, Tonya, was proud of her incoming senior leader and daughter. “It is always exciting to see a student athlete represent your program and community in an AHSAA All-Star event, said Coach Hunter.” “It was a better feeling seeing your daughter play and represent the community the way she did tonight. We are so proud of her for her performance on the basketball court but here off the floor character is what makes her one of the best players in the state.”

The boys did not have the same success, but they fought hard in their game, losing 8179 on a last-second shot by

the South’s Jamicah Adair from Jeff Davis High School. Reid Stodghill from Hewitt Trussville said, “I wasn’t satisfied with the shots I took on the offensive end, but I was very pleased with how I performed on the defensive end.” “The biggest factor that played into me being able to be an all-star is God giving me the ability and gifted me at the game I love to play,” said Stodghill. “Also, my parents who are always supporting me and pushing me to do more every day. And also, just being blessed with the facilities I have from just living in Trussville and being able to go train and work on my craft every day. I had a lot of fun

being able to go out with the best players in the state for a day to hang out and play basketball. Of course, it feels great to be a state all-star and I’m very grateful to have been nominated and be able to play in the game. I have to let it motivate me instead of satisfy me. I just have to keep working so I will be ready to have a great season.”

Pinson’s Caleb White also participated with the North boys in the game. White was a part of a Pinson Valley basketball team that finished the 2022-2023 regular season undefeated and made it deep into the playoffs but fell short of the state title. The Indians and coach Darrell Barber

look to build on the undefeated season and finish the 20232024 season with a blue map in their hands, as they return a number of White’s teammates from that team.

Coach Barber had the following to say about his star player, “I was extremely happy that Caleb had an opportunity to represent himself, our school and community. It’s always a blessing to have a player nominated. I thought Caleb played well with the minutes he got. Being one of the top three players in the state, I really would he would have had more time to showcase his abilities. Nevertheless, I’m sure he’s looking forward to his senior season.”

Jordan Hunter with her brother, mother and father.

Photo by: Jordan Hunter

Reid Stodghill with Hewitt Head Coach Jeremy Monceaux and AD Lance Walker. Photo by: Jeremy Monceaux

Pinson’s Caleb White with head coach Darrell Barber. Photo by: Darrell Barber

Fall Football Preview: Leeds Greenwave

By John Goolsby For the Tribune

Fall Football Preview: Center Point Eagles

By John Goolsby

For the Tribune

CENTER POINT – The 2022 Center Point Eagles shocked the state last year.

After jumping to 6A from 5A, the Eagles finished the regular season at 8-1, region runner-up, and ranked 8th in the state.

The Eagles must replace the dynamic duo of Troy Bruce, Jr. and Jabari Collier on offense. “We are going to see backfield by committee this year,” said Center Point head coach George Bates.

“We may have to generate more drives without the big plays until the guys get more experience.”

“Collectively, we are going to hang our hat on defense,” he said. “We will play ball control on offense and pick our spots (for big plays) and be sound in the kicking game,” Bates said.

“We are going to win; we are just going to win differently this year.”

Winning is something that Bates has done consistently at Center Point. Before Bates’ arrival, the Eagles had

won only three games in four years. Bates has put together a 40-20 record and made the playoffs all five years he’s been at the helm.

“We want to see if we can measure up to the success we had last year,” the 1998 Midfield graduate said. “It’s a chance to see how we will stack up in the region this year with teams getting better.”

Bates is depending on the leadership and play of his senior class to lead the Eagles

LEEDS – Veteran head coach Jerry Hood is excited about his 2023 Leeds Greenwave team. “I like this group,” he said. “We have had a good summer and the team is talented.”

Hood’s Greenwave team went undefeated in the regular season, won the region title and bested rival Moody in the “battle of the bridge.”

Leeds finished the 2022 season with an 11-1 record and saw their season end with a seven-point loss to 5A state champion Ramsay in the third round of the playoffs.

Hood, with a 135-66 career record and a state championship, knows that it takes a strong support system to win state titles. “I have been very fortunate coaching,” he said. “I’ve had a lot of good players, good administrations, and good communities.”

“All I can do is point them in the right direction,” he

said. “Whatever talent you have, your assistant coaches, however good they are, that’s usually how you will end up.”

Leeds plays Mortimer Jordan, Pell City, Sylacauga and Center Point in their non-region schedule.

The defensive line looks to be the strength of the Greenwave team. Coach Hood expects all four starters to play at the next level.

6-foot-two, 250 pounds four-star recruit and Arkansas commit Kavion Henderson will anchor the front along with Chris Burge, Nick Davis, and Joseph Stone.

Returners Josh Lee and Miles Jones will be joined by Gavin Howard as the starting linebackers.

Jeremiah Hall and Miles Ashford are returners at corner.

Dorian Hunter, Will Ford and Nolan Moore will be handling safety duties.

“I expect our defense to be fast,” said Hood. “They have played a lot of ball and I ex-

Help Shape the Future of Je erson County!

Tuesday,

Thursday,

pect a lot of good things from them.”

The Greenwave will have a new quarterback in Connor Nelson. “He’s a big and tall kid that can run and throw,” said Hood.

A trio of backs will lead the Leeds’ running attack. Grayson Ford and David Luna have experience, while newcomer Z.J. Dale will provide depth.

At receiver, Jaelyn Felder is a returning starter. “He’s a great kid and leader for us,” Hood said. Brooks Ford and Taylon Gaiter will join Felder as starters. Hood likes the depth and athletic ability of his receiving corp. “The others will play a big role with their unique abilities.”

The offense line will feature two seniors: Sean Hicks and Taylor Pulliam. Wilson Beasley will back up Carlos Plascencia, Gavin Bowlin, and Jax Garner. “Beasley can

Center Point linebacker Malik Brown. Photo by: Malik Brown

Conner Nelson and the Leeds Green Wave ran past Springville 41-14 on Friday, September 2, 2022. (Photo by Ron Burkett)

to their fifth consecutive winning season and six consecutive playoff appearance.

Malik Brown, a 6-foot-1, 225-pound linebacker, will anchor the Eagle defense. Brown has offers from Alabama State, Tuskegee, Lane College, Howard and Stetson.

“He’s an athletic guy that we are pretty high on.”

Camron Bonner, a threeyear starter, and Kemarius Horne, also a three-year starter, will provide a great deal of experience in the secondary.

Jaheem Nathan returns on the offensive line. “He’s a wrestler by trade and just a nasty guy in the trenches,” Bates said.

team. The junior class is reallytalented,” Bates said. “Most of our skill positions are in the junior class.”

“We have a couple of big guys in the sophomore class and we will see a couple of freshmen get some time this year, too.”

Shades Valley

From page 13

“Everybody did their best to bring me along. I just kept my ears open, kept my eyes open and I just appreciate this place.”

reception for a score. “He did that against Center Point his senior year.”

and came down awkwardly and dislocated a kneecap.”

“I had to call Kemberly, his mom, and when she drove him away from school that morning, I wondered if he’d ever play again,” Smith said.

Bates is excited about nose guard B’cari Pope, a first-year starter that has been with the team for two years.

From

“It’s a good problem to have.”

Avery Langford will handle the kicking duties, while

Center Point looks to have the foundation to be good for the next few years.

“We are a junior-heavy

Connor Nelson will punt. “That will allow us to do some fun things,” Hood said. Hood believes that his program has the ability to add to Leeds four state championships total

“We have an unbelievable community,” he said. “I am so

proud to be at Leeds. We have had a great run so far.”

The Eagles travel to Decatur, Mississippi, to play Tylertown High in Bill and Louise Bailey Stadium on the campus of East Central Community College in the season opener on August 25. play any of the positions and really gives us six starting offensive linemen,” Hood said.

“We appreciate everything the school administration does for us. Our superintendent John Moore and the school board and our community are just phenomenal.”

Leeds opens their season August 25 against Mortimer Jordan at Homer Smiles Field in front of the Leeds faithful and longtime super fan Toby Bank.

“Toby is Leeds biggest fan for sure,” said Hoods. “He’s also a good friend to me.”

As a true freshman at Alabama, Payne started three games and saw action in all 15 games. Following the season, Payne was named to the Freshman All-American team.

Payne played in 44 games at Alabama from 2015-17. The 2017 All-SEC defender made 102 career tackles (39 solo), five tackles for loss, three sacks, five pass breakups, two fumble recoveries, one forced fumble, and one interception.

Payne also caught a oneyard pass from Jalen Hurts for a touchdown in the All-State Sugar Bowl. Payne’s athletic reception for the score helped the Tide pull away from Clemson for a 24-6 win.

Current Pleasant Grove head coach Darrell LeBeaux, an assistant at Shades Valley with Payne, will quickly tell you that wasn’t Payne’s first

Payne left Tuscaloosa after his junior year with a 41-3 record, as a two-time national champion, an All-SEC selection, the Sugar Bowl Co-MVP, and the College Football Playoff National Championship Co-MVP.

Payne was the 13th player selected in the 2018 NFL draft.

In his first year with Washington, he finished with 56 total tackles, five sacks, and a forced. Fumble. Payne was named to the 2018 NFL All-Rookie Team and Pro Football Writers Association All-Rookie Team.

As great as Payne’s college career was at Alabama and how his NFL career has gone thus far, Daron’s high school career at Shades Valley didn’t start out as well.

“On the first practice of his 9th-grade season, Daron hurt his knee and had to have season-ending surgery,” Smith said. “Daron completely recovered, but towards the end of his freshman year, he was trying to dunk a basketball

“I had never seen a knee dislocation, and it looked really bad. Daron never gave up and bounced back with a great sophomore season.”

Payne has proven to be durable. He has only missed one game in his five year NFL career.

Payne made his first Pro Bowl selection in 2022. He recorded a career highs in sacks, QB hits, and tackles for loss.

Payne’s hard work paid off. He was ranked as the 11th highest free agent in the NFL and signed a new four-year $90 million contract a few months ago.

Before Payne left, he gave some advice to the 2023 Mountie team. “Y’all can do anything you want to as long as you dedicate yourself to it,” he said. “You have to put the work in. You have to make sacrifices. You just have to do it.”

Malik Brown – Center Point Football

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