The Trussville Tribune – September 15 - 21, 2021

The Tribune

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

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JeffCo deputies search for missing Pinson boy

Page 4

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First annual Argo Business Club picnic a success

Trussville City Fest is “Better Together”

ARGO — Argo Mayor Betty Bradley and the Argo City Council gave praise for the success of the first annual Argo Business Club picnic at the regular council meeting on Monday, Sept. 13, 2021. The picnic was held Saturday, Sept.

11, at Argo City Park and was free to the public.

See ARGO BUSINESS CLUB, Page 4

Moody Council passes city budget, approves home occupation zoning amendment

By Nathan Prewett

MOODY — At a regular meeting on Monday, Sept. 13, the Moody City Council passed its 2021-2022 budget before approving a zoning resolution related to home occupation.

See MOODY, Page 5

Trussville firefighter was 1 on 9/11; Now honors those killed at the World Trade Center “The greatest casualty is being forgotten.” - The Wounded Warrior Project

Leeds names palyer/team of week

Page 14

2021

From The Tribune staff Reports

TRUSSVILLE — The 41st Annual Trussville City Fest “Better Together” was a huge success on Saturday, September 11.

The festivities started at 9 a.m. with a 20th-anniversary observance of the 2001 attack on America at the Veteran’s Memorial.

Festivity goers were able to enjoy a day filled with laughter, joy, and tasty treats, whether it was playing in the expanded Bryant Bank Kids’ Area, admiring America’s First Federal Credit Union Marketplace with various business booths and vendors, devouring some of the most popular food trucks around, or admiring fine art that was available around the festival.

Still, the excitement did not end there. Trussville Downtown Merchants Association members offered deals, discounts, and other shoppers’ delights in and around the Main Street business district.

It’s not too late to join in the fun because a festival is

TUE

77 68

September 15 - 21

By Crystal McGough

SUN MON

Center Point mulls public safety options after feasibility study

By Bobby Mathews, sports editor

CENTER POINT — A feasibility study by the Public Affairs Research Council of Alabama declared that Center Point would need between $4 million and $5 million for its own police department.

See CP PUBLIC SAFETY, Page 5

Photo by Erica Thomas

not without music, and Trussville City Fest had plenty to share at the festival site and the Trussville Entertainment District. Festival-goers have to look no further than the Trussville Entertainment District stage, where all musical performances and admissions are free.

Party of the Year, the allhits party band from the producers of the Black Jacket Symphony, is the headliner

for the two-night festival.

The incredible performance features Top 40 hits from the 60s through today, along with the same great production that fans of the Black Jacket Symphony have come to expect.

The lineup that immediately followed Party of the Year included Trussville singer/songwriter Alli Leighann, Brad Ryan & Man’s Best Friend, the winner of Truss-

ville Civic Center’s August 28 Battle of the Bands, and more.

This year’s event kicked off with Tune-Up for City Fest, presented by Brown Automotive, on Friday, September 10. The featured act that evening, Artie Dean Harris & Bourbontown, was voted Kentucky’s #1 Country Rock Party Band and shared the stage with Blake Shelton, Faith Hill, and more.

Trussville veterans honor 13 soldiers killed at Kabul airport in Afghanistan

By Erica Thomas, managing editor

Pike Road mayor speaks at Moody Area Chamber of Commerce Luncheon

By Hannah Caver

MOODY - Pike Road Mayor Gordon Stone spoke on the importance of higher education for the young people of Alabama during the Moody Area Chamber of Commerce’s September luncheon on Thursday, September 9.

See MOODY, Page 6

Jefferson County Coroner seeks help in locating the families of deceased individuals

By The Tribune staff reports

TRUSSVILLE — For Trussville Firefighter Billy Brodie, Sept. 11, 2001 means much more than you might think.

JEFFERSON COUNTY — The Jefferson County Coroner, William Yates, is requesting the public's assistance in locating the family of the following individuals.

See HONORING SOLDIERS 9/11, Page 6

See CORONER SEEKS ID, Page 3

Jefferson Memorial honors local first responders with luncheon

By Erica Thomas, managing editor

TRUSSVILLE — First responders from Jefferson and St. Clair Counties were honored on Friday, Sept. 10, 2021, during a luncheon at Jefferson Memorial Gardens.

See HONORING FIRST RESPONDERS, Page 6

U.S. Air Force Ret. CMSgt. E. W. Bush Photo by Erica Thomas

By Hannah Caver, for The Tribune

TRUSSVILLE — American Legion Post 205 invited veterans and those who support the military to Slag Heap Brewery, in Trussville, on Thursday, September 9 at 6 p.m. The purpose of the gathering was to honor the lives of the 13 soldiers recently killed at the Kabul airport in Afghanistan.

A table set for 13, each

having a full drink and flag folded in the middle, was displayed for the fallen soldiers.

Robert Langford, a member of American Legion Post 205 and Trussville veterans committee, said he “felt like we needed to honor our troops that passed away.”

For Langford, the U.S.’s withdrawal from Afghanistan struck a nerve. An Army veteran from 1997-2005, Langford knows firsthand what the days following September 11,

2001, were like.

“When I was in the National Guard I was working a job that saw the planes hit the towers, and then a month later I decided to go back on active duty again,” Langford said.

“We left with our tail between our legs ... that’s the way a lot of military folks feel.”

But this night wasn’t about anger. It was meant to honor those who passed on while doing their duty.

“We wanted a ceremonial

‘raise the glass’ toast to them because they can’t have one,” Langford said.

Dozens of people came to share a toast, lifting their glasses and honoring those who did not make it home.

Among those in attendance was World War II Veteran, U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sergeant E. W. Bush (retired). Bush smiled and laughed with the different individuals mingling around the room, proudly wearing his WWII Veteran hat.

See VETS HONOR 13 SOLDIERS, Page 6

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Jefferson County Sheriff's investigate Center Point homicide From The Tribune staff reports

CENTER POINT — A Birmingham man was killed during a reported assault, according to the Jefferson County Sheriff's office on Sunday, September 12 at 3:51 a.m.

See CP HOMICIDE, Page 3

The Trussville Tribune

Page 2

The

Trussville Tribune

September 15 - 21, 2021

Trussville girl crowns Miss Spectacular America winner

190 Main Street Trussville, AL 35173 (205) 533-8664 Scott Buttram, Publisher publisher@trussvilletribune.com Tanna M. Friday, Managing Editor news@trussvilletribune.com Governor Kay Ivey and Josie Browning

Bobby Mathews, Sports Editor bobby.mathews@trussvilletribune.com Hannah Caver, Staff Writer

By Hannah Caver

SALES STAFF Ryan Jennings, Director of Advertising & Sales Shari Moore, Account Executive Meredith White, Account Executive Lauren Taylor, Traffic Coordinator Lara Sciro, Office Manager

Member of the Alabama Press Association

TRUSSVILLE — Josie Browning, eight, of Trussville, won Little Miss Spectacular America last September. Browning is now ready to crown her successor on Saturday, September 11, in Tennessee.

Browning recently won Tiny Miss Alabama and even got the chance to spend a day at the capitol meeting local politicians and Governor Kay Ivey.

She is also a dancer at the Birmingham Academy of Dance, where she loves to perform hip hop, ballet, jazz, and gymnastics. She hopes to one day become a pediatrician because she loves children and taking care of others. Her biggest supporters are her parents, mother and stepfather, Jessica and Chad

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Sutherland, and father and stepmother, Chris and Jamie Browning.

Whenever Browning's family watches her take the stage, they are always amazed at how much talent the eightyear-old has and the confidence she radiates.

Her mother, Jessica Sutherland, commented that Browning enjoys dancing, but she loves pageants more; sometimes, she only wants to do pageants. Still, Browning's mother reminds her of the importance of talent.

“I'm like if you’re going to do pageants, then you have to have a talent," Sutherland said. "So you have to push forward in something else too if you want to go far in pageantry."

Sutherland explained how Browning went to a workshop on Thursday, September

10, and watched her daughter "literally mimicking the coach in everything she was doing."

"She really puts her heart into it and tries her best and gives it a 100% every time.

She’s just a natural," Sutherland said.

Browning is not the only one competing this weekend.

Browning's older sister, Presley Sutherland, 12, will be competing in the preteen category for the title of Preteen Gulf Coast. Browning said she hopes she can crown her sister.

Both Josie Browning and Presley Sutherland have been a part of the pageant world since they were toddlers.

Sutherland said her love for pageants led her to put her children in pageants, hoping that they would have the same love.

Sutherland mentioned how she was preparing for the Miss Alabama pageant that will take place in 37 days.

"I actually grew up in pageants, too," Sutherland said.

“We're a pageant family.”

According to Miss Spectacular America's official platform, Expressions Productions encourages all SPECTACULAR AMERICA Titleholders to take part in its National Campaign, "SANTA WITH A CROWN." Santa with a Crown is where Titleholders take donations or purchase toys for Christmas and then deliver them to families in need over the holidays. Additionally, Expressions Productions encourage all titleholders to reach out to their local churches and schools to search for families to donate their wonderful gifts.

September 15 - 21, 2021

The Trussville Tribune

Page 3

Local / Region

Coroner Seeks ID From front page

David Underwood, 65, of Birmingham, died on August 30 at 3:15 a.m. Underwood was found by a friend unresponsive near the railroad viaduct on 20th Street South.

Coroners say he died of natural causes. All attempts to

August 31 at 8:19 a.m. Ledbetter was found by neighbors unresponsive inside her private apartment on the 2300th block of 10th Court South in Birmingham on August 31 at 8:19 a.m.

Yates said Ledbetter died of natural causes. All attempts to locate family have failed so far. Ledbetter's husband reportedly died several years ago.

ties believe that Hagood was possibly born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, but also possibly lived at one time near Decatur, in north Alabama. He possibly has relatives in Trinity, Lawrence County, and Shelby County.

Tina Marie Chamblin, 45, of Hoover, died on September 3 at 4:22 pm. Chamblin was found unresponsive by the Birchall at Ross Bridge

Left to Right: Keith Steven Hagood, David Underwood, Bonnie Mayer Ledbetter, and Tina Marie Chamblin. The Jefferson County Coroner is seeking information on the families of these four individuals.

locate his family have failed.

It is believed that his descendants have lived in Montgomery; Cleveland, Ohio, and Birmingham since 1993.

Underwood was homeless at the time of his death, according to Yates Authorities are seeking to reunite these deceased persons with their families, who may not even know that they have passed away.

Bonnie Meyer Ledbetter, 78, of Birmingham, died on

Keith Steven Hagood, 62, of Carbon Hill, died at Princeton Baptist Medical Center, Birmingham, Alabama, on August 8 at 3:03 pm. He is said to have died of natural causes while an inpatient at Princeton Baptist Medical Center. Before being admitted to the hospital, he was also a tenant at Walker Rehabilitation Center in Carbon Hill.

All attempts to locate his family have failed. Authori-

CP Homicide

Apartment staff inside her private apartment. Coroners say she died of natural causes. All attempts to locate her family have failed, and she is believed to have previously lived in Talladega, AL in 1998, has lived in the Birmingham and Hoover area since 2000.

If you are family or have knowledge of family, please call the Jefferson County Coroner/Medical Examiner’s Office at 205-930-3603.

sault at the 200 block of 18th Avenue NW in Center Point.

Carter was transported to UAB Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

The death is being investigated as a homicide. There is no further information at this time.

From front page

The Jefferson County Coroner's office report says that Maurice Dewayne Carter, 31, was shot during an as-

Trussville Council proclaims September as Childhood Cancer Month

By Tanna M. Friday, Managing Editor The Trussville Tribune

TRUSSVILLE — According to the American Cancer Society, an estimated 15,780 children under the age of 19 in the United States will be diagnosed with cancer this year and approximately 40,000 children in the United States are on active treatment at any given time despite its rarity and major advances in treatment and supportive care, remains the leading cause of death by disease for children here in our country.

During a regular Council meeting on Tuesday, September 14, the Trussville City Council approved a proclamation recognizing September as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, which offers Alabamians the opportunity to remember the young lives taken too soon, honor the survivors, and celebrate the progress made in treatment and recovery.

Along with those in support of this proclamation included parents, Shaun and Lori Beth Richey, of beloved Avery Richey, who passed in May 2019 of a brain tumor.

Proclamation approved by the Trussville City Council presented in honor of the late Avery Richey recognizing September at Childhood Cancer Month.

“I have had the pleasure of knowing these children,”

Man killed in Leeds wreck identified

Photo by Rod Landers From The Tribune staff reports

LEEDS — The Jefferson County Coroner's Office has identified a man killed during a late Monday morning wreck.

Kenneth Randall Akins,

67, of Jasper died when the white Ford Econoline van he was driving veered from roadway, crossed a ditch, continued up a hill and finally rolled over.

The vehicle came to rest behind the Buc-ee's convenience store off Interstate 20 around 11:36 a.m. Akins was pronounced dead at 12:36 p.m., and his body was transported via helicopter, according to Leeds Police Chief Jim Atkinson.

Law enforcement is unsure of the cause of the accident and is continuing to investigate.

said Paine Elementary School principal, Dr. Lisa Lothspeich. “These children and families are such an inspiration.

We would like to thank you for bringing awareness. We know that only four (4) percent of federal money goes to childhood cancer research.

These children are receiving cancer treatments that adults receive because they have not come very far with research.

We thank you for your support.”

Shaun Richey addressed his appreciation to the council on acknowledging Childhood Cancer Awareness in the community.

“Childhood cancer is not rare,” said Richey. “There are five families including ours that have been fighting this battle. I appreciate the Council’s recognition of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. There are also other families who are struggling, not only in our community, but also in other communities. Spreading the word helps share awareness toward the cause and every family needs a support system. Where it is in your church, city, or schools. Trussville has been a great city and support system for our family. We thank you from the bottoms of our hearts for the support.”

In other matters the Council approved: • Minutes August 19 workshop, August 24 regular session and August 31

special session; • Proclamation 2021-19 honoring childhood cancer; • Proclamation 2021-20 HTHS parade scheduled September 23; • Ordinance 2021-020ADM to Adopt New FEMA Standards from Flood Damage Prevention; • Ordinance 2021-021ANX to annex 416 Pineview Road; • Ordinance 2021-022ADM to establish cemetery rules and regulations; • Resolution 2021—44 to declare various assets as surplus; • Resolution 2021-45 to enroll ALM economic development academy; • Resolution 2021-46 - bid for painting the new police training center on Deerfoot; • Resolution 2021-47 to authorize reincorporating the city industrial board to authority; • Resolution 2021-48 to appeal a board of zoning adjustment decision to the 10th judicial circuit; • Resolution 2021-49 to refinance the 2015 general obligation school warrants; • Resolution 2021-50 to approve cemetery memorandum of understanding; • Audit accounts; and • Executive session to discuss a real estate transaction.

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The Trussville Tribune

Page 4

Ivey responds to Biden’s executive order on vaccines

Argo Business Club From front page

"Mr. Bob (Carter) worked awful hard and we had a lot of people come out and play that disc golf,” Bradley said during the pre-council workshop.

“We probably had about 175 people turn out altogether, so I think it was pretty good for the first picnic.”

During the council meeting, Bradley also said that Mayor Pro-Tem Dusty Stinson and Councilperson Ann Brown worked hard to get everything in order for the city’s new disc golf course to be open in time for the event.

“I didn’t realize how big a following these disc golf courses have,” Bob Carter, with the Argo Business Club, said. “Evidently, it’s really a fad now. I know Trussville’s got a couple and Pinson’s got one; Clay’s got one. So, I think it’s something that we’re going to see growing in the future and they were talking about how good our course was.”

Carter said that of the roughly 175 people who attended the event, about 30% played disc golf. Additionally, he said that several local businesses contributed to door prizes, which included a $50 Argo Hardware gift card, a $25 Argo Hardware gift card, a $25 Zaxby’s gift card, a holiday door wreath and a gift basket.

“Everything was very nice," he said. “We gave away approximately 30 door prizes. We had $100 cash for the first-place grand prize. (The winner) was a new lady, new to the community, so she was thrilled; she cried. I was glad somebody one it that really needed it. It was a really nice event and everybody was very happy about winning prizes.

September 15 - 21, 2021

From The Tribune staff reports

Photo courtesy of Mayor Betty Bradley and the What’s Happening In Argo, Al Facebook page

We’re planning on doing it again next year.”

A motion to approve Resolution 2021-09-13, concerning the purchase of a John Deere excavator for $40,972 and a dump trailer for $10,500, failed to pass. Both pieces of equipment were to be purchased with Covid relief funds. The motion received votes from Mayor Pro-Tem Dusty Stinson and Councilperson Dennis Griffin. Councilperson Danny McCarley voted and Mayor Bradley abstained.

“I’d rather the other council members be here when this is passed,” Bradley said. “The reason I’m holding off on it is, I think we need to have everybody here before we make this decision. And also, I found out after doing some investigation that one of our neighboring cities has had to pay some funds back, not on this but on something else with the federal government. I want to be cautious and I’m trying to ask around and find out if there’s anybody else that’s planning on buying some equipment and that sort of stuff with it.

I’m hoping at the next meeting that I’ll have a little more information and, also, I’m hoping that our whole council will be here.”

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Bradley clarified that the money that had to be paid back was not Covid relief money, but other federal funds where the guidelines had not been followed. Additionally, she said that the city has until 2024 to allocate the relief funds and until 2026 to spend it.

Stinson said he wanted to clarify that the city attorney had looked at the resolution and said that it did meet the Covid relief fund standards.

McCarley declined to comment on the reason he voted on the resolution.

The next meeting of the Argo City Council will be Monday, Sept. 27, 2021, at the Argo Municipal Complex.

The regular council meeting will start at 6 p.m., following a workshop at 5 p.m.

Photos from the Argo Business Club picnic, courtesy of Mayor Betty Bradley and the What’s Happening In Argo, Al Facebook page

MONTGOMERY — Alabama Governor Kay Ivey responded to U.S. President Joe Biden’s executive order mandating COVID-19 vaccinations for all federal employees.

While Ivey said she encourages everyone to get vaccinated, she believes his executive order is an overreach.

“Once again, President Biden has missed the mark.

His outrageous, overreaching mandates will no doubt be challenged in the courts. Placing more burdens on both employers and employees during a pandemic with the rising inflation rates and lingering labor shortages is totally unacceptable,” Ivey said in a prepared statement. “Alabamians have stepped up by rolling up their sleeves to get the COVID-19 vaccine, increasing our doses administered significantly in recent weeks. We have done so without mandates from Washington D.C. or Montgomery.

I’ve made it abundantly clear: I support the science and encourage folks taking the vaccine. However, I am absolutely against a government mandate on the vaccine, which is why I signed the vaccine passport ban into law here in Alabama.

This is not the role of the government. I continue encouraging any Alabamian who can, to get the covid-19 vaccine. We have a safe and effective tool at our fingertips, so, let’s roll up our sleeves and get this thing

beat ...”

Alabama has just this week surpassed 50 percent of its population receiving the first dose of the vaccine.

With the Delta variant of the COVID-19 continuing to grow and lagging vaccination numbers, Biden’s executive order could affect more that 100 million people.

“The health and safety of

the best way to do so is to be vaccinated.

“The Safer Federal Workforce Task Force (Task Force), established by Executive Order 13991 of January 20, 2021 (Protecting the Federal Workforce and Requiring Mask-Wearing), has issued important guidance to protect the Federal workforce and individuals interacting with the

the Federal workforce, and the health and safety of members of the public with whom they interact, are foundational to the efficiency of the civil service,” the order states. “I have determined that ensuring the health and safety of the Federal workforce and the efficiency of the civil service requires immediate action to protect the Federal workforce and individuals interacting with the Federal workforce.

It is essential that Federal employees take all available steps to protect themselves and avoid spreading COVID-19 to their co-workers and members of the public. The CDC has found that

Federal workforce. Agencies have also taken important actions, including in some cases requiring COVID-19 vaccination for members of their workforce.

Accordingly, building on these actions, and in light of the public health guidance regarding the most effective and necessary defenses against COVID-19, I have determined that to promote the health and safety of the Federal workforce and the efficiency of the civil service, it is necessary to require COVID-19 vaccination for all Federal employees, subject to such exceptions as required by law.”

JeffCo deputies search for missing Pinson boy From The Tribune staff reports

PINSON — Jefferson County Sheriff’s deputies are searching for a missing Pinson boy.

Deshun Author Johnson Jr., 13, was last seen leaving home on September 9, while wearing a gray shirt, blue

Deshun Author Johnson Jr.

shorts, and black Nike flipflops, according to a poster released by JCSO. He was also carrying a brown backpack. Johnson is presumed to be a runaway at this time.

He is between 4-11 to 5-1, and weighs 110-115 pounds.

The JCSO requests that anyone who has seen Johnson please contact (205)352-1450.

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September 15 - 21, 2021

The Trussville Tribune

Bill would allow Alabama workers to sue employers if job mandated vaccines go wrong Scott Buttram, publisher

MONTGOMERY -- A bill prefiled by Alabama legislators would allow workers to sue employers if job mandated COVID-19 vaccines go wrong.

The bill, HB16, prefiled by representatives Andrew Sorrell, Tommy Hanes and Arnold Mooney would provide a private right of action against an employer for any adverse reaction, injury, temporary or permanent disability, or death of an employee arising from an employer mandate that the employee

The Alabama State House.

receive a COVID-19 vaccine.

If the bill passes, an employee could sue the business owner or any company employee with supervision over hiring and payroll if the the

worker suffers injury, disability or death from a work mandated vaccine.

The bill was filed on Sept.

1, well before President Joe Biden mandated vaccines for all federal employees, employees of federal contractors and employees of companies with more than 100 employees. The presidential mandate could provide legal cover for those employers. But many Alabama businesses placed a vaccine mandate on employees on their own.

The bill has been assigned to the Alabama House Judiciary Committee.

CP Public Safety From front page

The study’s conclusion is that raising those funds would be challenging doesn't mean that this suburban Birmingham city will stop working toward having its own police officers, Mayor Bobby Scott said during Wednesday phone interview.

“This wasn’t the end of the process at all,” Scott said.

“We wanted to keep the public informed on every step of the process.”

Scott said that the longterm goal is still for Center Point to create its own officers. What that looks like may not be a full-fledged police force.

“We want to give our residents the feeling that they have their own officers seeing to their public safety needs,” Scott said. “We do have a public safety budget, and our job

Center Point Mayor Bobby Scott addresses the media on Nov. 2, 2020. (File photo) Photo by Erik Harris

now is to continue finding the best ways to use those funds.”

Currently the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office patrols Center Point. One option Scott mentioned was a smaller cadre of officers who would work in cooperation with deputies to protect and serve the city.

“We have a contract with them (JCSO) to provide public safety, and they do a great job,” Scott said. “But Jefferson County is a large area and they have a lot of things they

have to cover.”

Since a full police force is off the table for now, Scott said that they will move forward in smaller increments and make significant progress by the end of his current term as mayor.

“Hopefully before the term is over we’ll have a minimum of four to five Center Point officers,” he said. “I can’t say when, because right now we’re looking into funding. Once we secure funding, we’ll move forward."

Moody

Page 5

The meeting began with reports from department heads for the month of August.

Moody Police Chief Thomas Hunt gave his reporting, saying that there were 1,420 calls, 29 arrests, 52 warning tickets, 166 citations, 82 reports, 55 misdemeanors, 47 felonies, and

the city. It means a lot when we can sit down knowing we have good people doing good jobs, and it shows in our budgets.”

Afterward, discussions turned to Ordinance M202109-13 regarding home occupation. A public hearing and first reading were held at the previous meeting in which City Attorney James Hill explained that the ordinance concerned

Act of $1,530 for the purchase of a computer. The funds will be reimbursed from the Alabama Public Library Service, • Approved Spradley’s request to renew the library’s website hosting and maintenance fees for $1,905, • Approved Hunt’s request to have an awning built on

16,897 miles were driven by vehicles. $3,137.80 were spent on vehicle maintenance.

Moody Fire and Rescue Chief Larry Horton reported seven fires, 114 emergency medical calls, 11 wrecks, 16 lift assists, and 20 false alarms. The average dispatch to en route time was 58 seconds and the average dispatch to arrival time was six minutes and 16 seconds. There were 49 annual inspections and 18 re-inspections.

Later in the meeting, Councilman Lynn Taylor presented the 2021-2022 city budget. In his presentation, Taylor said that the budget was $26,776,781. Projected annual expenses were $12,000,991, including a 75 cent raise for city employees and maintenance for department vehicles.

Very good budget, I think,” Taylor said. “I just want to take the time and thank everyone, thank Nick [Rutledge], Ms. [Linda] Crowe, the finance committee, the mayor [Joe Lee], Tracey [Patterson], and all of the department heads for putting such a good budget for

those who run businesses from their homes, such as music lessons or internet services. No one spoke for or against the proposed action during that meeting.

Hill said that the city’s policy does not require home-based businesses with clients coming to the building to come before the Zoning Board of Adjustments. The amendment approved at last night’s meeting provides certain safeguard that includes having objections or concerns from adjacent homeowners or others to go to the board for the building inspectors to oversee.

The ordinance was passed unanimously.

In other business, the council: • Approved Horton’s request for the annual fire donation notices to be printed and mailed for $4,812.10, • Approved Library Director Patsy Spradley’s request to accept a federal grant award from the American Recovery Plan

the back of the police department building for the golf cart for $3,765, • Approved Hunt’s request to purchase new tires for car #354, • Approved Mayor Joe Lee’s request to renew the Pell City Animal Facility user agreement for $10,000, • Approved Resolution R2021-09-13 to accept the streets in Oak Valley subdivision for upkeep and maintenance, • Approved Resolution R2021-09-13A to reduce the corporate limits and reestablish the boundaries of the city, • Approved the purchase of two storm shelter signs for a total cost of $1,105, and • Approved Public Works Director Mike Staggs’ request to purchase four tires for a park truck for $676.

Meetings are held on the second and fourth Monday of every month at 6 p.m. at Moody City Hall on 670 Park Ave.

From front page

The Trussville Tribune

Page 6

Moody From front page

Stone is also executive director of the Higher Education Partnership with a simple mission in mind: “To advocate the importance of higher education in bettering the lives of people in Alabama.”

According to Higher Education Partnership, Alabama expects to see more demand for employees with bachelor’s degrees or higher in the next decade.

Stone shared his story of growing up in Wilcox County,

Vets honor 13 soldiers From front page

“I like to be around with my buddies,” Bush said. “I don’t know none of them, but

Photo: Town of Pike Road.

we have the same thing together, the military, and as far as I’m concerned we’re buddies.”

Bush shared similar emotions when thinking about what happened in Afghanistan, saying it’s “stupid” for the “the way they pulled out the way

they did out there.”

Langford said Trussville is a patriotic community. As veterans and supporting community members toasted in honor of veterans and the fallen soldiers, it was easy to see their love and respect for each other.

Jefferson Memorial Gardens President Eddie Seal hosts luncheon for local first responders.

from time to time,” Seal said.

We just wanted to show our gratitude for everything that they do for us.”

Hundreds of emergency responders were killed in New York City when two planes slammed into the World Trade Center in 2001.

Of those, 343 were firefighters, 64 were police officers, and eight were emergency medical technicians.

For the luncheon in Trussville, Sen. Shay Shelnutt and Rep. Danny Garrett were on hand. The guest speaker was Jefferson County Commissioner Joe Knight.

Hamburger Heaven catered the event.

From front page

Jefferson Memorial President Eddie Seal said the annual event is a way to show appreciation to police, fire, EMS and all other first responders. A LifeSaver helicopter also landed on the cemetery ground for the event. The timing of the luncheon isn’t a coincidence. It coincides with the anniversary of the terror attacks on Sept. 11, 2001.

“This is 20 years since 9/11 and we have a very good relationship with the police because we deal with them

Clay City Council approves resolution to rename Community Drive in honor of late building Inspector, Isabell

where people lacked hope for the future. Stone’s father had the opportunity to get a degree at Auburn University.

“I grew up in a family that was unique in that part of the world, in that I grew up with someone in my home, making sure I had an ambition to get an education,” Stone said.

Stone encouraged other community leaders to help motivate children to strive for higher education.

For more information about Higher Education Partnership, visit www.higheredpartners.org.

Honoring first responders

September 15 - 21, 2021

By Faith Callens For The Tribune

CLAY — On Tuesday, Sept. 14, the Clay City Council met at City Hall to discuss several resolutions including one to honor the city’s late building inspector, Donald Isbell, who worked for the city for thirteen years.

The Council approved a resolution to change a street named, "Community Drive” to “ Donald Isbell Lane" in the honor of his service with the city.

“Donald worked for the City of Clay for 13 years and is remembered fondly by all who knew him. The City of Clay mourns his loss and celebrates the legacy of friendship, kindness and integrity he leaves behind,” said City Manager Ronnie Dixon.

Isbell, who was laid to rest September 1, was only 69 years old.

The other items the Council approved included: • Proclamation 2021- 03, which honors the life of Donald Isbell; • Proclamation 2021- 04 Constitution Week on September 17-23; • Resolution 2021-23 authorizing the elimination of a nuisance upon two private properties includ-

ing 5870 Brenda Drive and 6324 Trussville Clay Road; Resolution 2021-24 declaring Weeds to be a public nuisance for the following properties: 2146 Sweeney Hollow Road, 5175 Cimmaron Circle, and 5370 Scott Drive; Resolution 2021-25 declaring personal property at 7768 Clayton Cove Parkway to be a public nuisance; Homecoming week and parade on Thursday, September 16 at 10 a.m.; City of Clay Fall Festival taking place October 31 at Chalkville High School from 5-7 p.m.

During mayor and council comment, Charlotte Gipson, a member of the Josiah Brunson Chapter of (DAR)Daughters of the American Revolution spoke briefly about constitution week and asked citizens to join in and read the constitution and fly their flags during that week.

Councilor Chris Nail announced the August winners for the school grant program which included winners from Clay Elementary School, Bryant Park Elementary, Clay-Chalkville Middle School and Chalkville High School. Each recipient was awarded $500.

Next City Council Meeting is Tuesday, September 28.

him as a firefighter. If Brodie could talk to one of those firefighters killed today, he said he would want them to know he appreciates what they did.

“I would say to them, ‘Thank you for being a symbol of service, of patriotism, and honor,” Brodie said. “I would say that they paved the way for a lot of people such as myself, who were influenced to become a firefighter or police officer, or a paramedic or whatever branch of first responder it is. I would thank them for pav-

ing the way and showing us what real heroes look like. It’s not who your favorite celebrity is, it’s not your favorite singer, it’s the people who are in the background making sure that the public stays safe, as well as protecting our national interests oversees such as the men and women in the military.”

Brodie said he would ask what they would want every American citizen to do to remember their sacrifice.

“I think their response would be to remember,” Brodie said. “To never forget the sacrifices that were made for us to live in such a great nation that we are in now, no matter how separated we may seem right now. And to remember that those true heroes gave their lives so that we could live and be the most prosperous country that the world’s ever had.”

And remembering is exactly what Brodie and Lawley will continue to do as they work to protect citizens in Birmingham and Trussville.

“It’s all about sacrifice every day that you go in,” said Brodie. “Every day that you go into the station, you accept the fact that it may be the last day that you’re on this earth. It’s special in a way, because you don’t take the small moments for granted.”

•

•

• •

Honoring soldiers 9/11 From front page

He was only one-year-old when terrorists attacked the United States by hijacking planes and flying them into the World Trade Center towers and the Pentagon. A fourth plane crashed into a field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, likely because of heroic actions of civilians on board. In all, nearly 3,000 lives were lost.

So many things have changed since that day. Our daily lives and the way we live as Americans has changed.

Not only travel but on an international front, our country has taken a stand for 20 years to fight terrorism at a level unlike before.

Brodie may have been oneyear-old when those changes came upon the U.S., but he has a strong sense of what it meant for America and what it means for our future. He has heard the stories from loved ones. Where they were that day and what they remember. Their thoughts and how the cruel actions of evil people were overruled by true patriotism and love for a country and the people in it.

Hate lost on Sept. 11, 2001.

“Even if you were too young to remember it or if the

Birmingham Firefighter Tim Lawley and Trussville Firefighter Billy Brodie climb 110 flights of stairs on a Stairmaster in remembrance of lives lost on 9/11.

only thing that you can recall is from videos or just hearing where your family or people in your circle or everyone else was when the world stop turning, you can feel the American pride that went across the nation,” Brodie said. “At that time, there was no diversity, we were all Americans.”

343 firefighters were killed in New York City alone on that day. They were responding to the burning towers to rescue people. Some of those rescue

attempts were successful and many lives were saved. For those firefighters that were killed, their last mission will never be forgotten. Their legacy has lived on in the hearts and minds of those who follow in their footsteps...those like Billy Brodie.

Brodie and his Birmingham Fire and Rescue colleague, Tim Lawley, did 110 flights on a Stairmaster at 24e Fitness, in Trussville on Friday. The purpose was to sym-

bolize the amount of steps that were in the World Trade Center before it collapsed. Many of those steps were the last steps taken by firefighters who were working to reach those trapped inside the buildings.

Without thinking about themselves, they made the ultimate sacrifice in the face of terror and did so without hesitation.

That heroism has stayed with Brodie throughout most of his years of life.

Brodie said their acts of selflessness continue to inspire

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September 15 - 21, 2021

The Trussville Tribune

Page 7

Opinion

When will the lives of victims, Reflections: The wet paint their children, and their brush tour families matter? They are the ones who are forgotten Editor's note: This is an opinion column.

It has been 13 years since my son, Renota Tyus, was killed by a drunk driver. Not a day goes by that I don’t think about him. Every Sunday after church I visit his grave. I think about his life and the promises it held.

Renota or “Lolly” as I called him, was a member of Bethel Missionary Baptist Church.

He was a son, a brother, and a father. My son was a funny, loving kid. He loved life, our movie nights, his friends, and his family. His children, my grandbabies, Devontae Tyus and Renajah Tyus, were 4 and 3 at the time of his death. Soon, they will both be high school graduates. I am proud of them just like I was proud of my son.

When I read the article "Families plead for changes to Alabama's parole system," which first appeared in Alabama Political Reporter and was reprinted in other publications, it made me wonder when the lives of the victims, their children, and their families are going to matter. They are the ones who are forgotten. This is evident by the fact that neither me nor anyone from my family was asked to share our perspective for the Alabama Political Reporter article. Renota’s children never got to experience their father cheering them on at basketball games or chess tournaments. They will never experience the sight of their proud father at graduation or the tears I know he would have cried on

Carolyn Tyus with a portrait of her son, Renota, who was killed by a drunk driver.

(Contributed photo

Renajah’s wedding day.

What would their lives look like now if their dad was here? These are holes that can never be filled. These precious moments died with my son.

The man who killed my son, Patrick Barnes, Jr. was charged with reckless murder. He struck and killed my son while driving drunk. This was not an accident. This was a conscious decision to get behind the wheel of a car after excessive drinking. Mr. Barnes pleaded guilty to manslaughter. I appreciate him taking responsibility for his actions as it kept our entire family from going through a trial. He was sentenced to 20 years in prison, which is about the amount of time my son walked this earth. However, he has served less than half of his sentence and has already been granted two parole hearings.

I’m told Mr. Barnes has

taken steps to better himself in prison and wish more inmates would do the same. But I do not believe that his personal growth makes up for the loss to my family, the community, and the time he agreed to serve.

Mr. Barnes entered a plea knowing his sentence would be 20 years. I do not think he should be released from prison before serving the time he received. I understand prison can work as rehabilitation, but I also believe prison is a punishment and people should pay for their crimes. We elect judges to do what is best. Every member of both parole boards that have heard the facts has had the wisdom to realize and proclaim that even though Mr. Barnes may be working hard in prison, he has dug a hole for me and my family and the public at large that will never be filled.

Renota's memory will live on through me and his children.

I have forgiven Mr. Barnes but I live with the pain he has caused me and my family every day.

I share my story through my involvement with Mothers Against Drunk Driving. I hope no other family experiences the devastating loss of a loved one because of another person’s deadly decision to drive drunk.

By educating and warning others about the dangers of drunk driving, we can save lives.

Carolyn Tyrus is the mother of a young man who was killed by a driver who pleaded guilty of driving under the influence and is currently incarcerated in an Alabama prison.

Editor's note: This is an opinion column.

It’s a ritual whenever our painter comes to church-the wet paint brush tour. He knows I need about 30 minutes with him and his wet brush to touch up the nicks and scratches incurred since his last visit. Our painter is gracious enough to do this for me. He laughs and tells me the nicks and scratches are what he calls job security!

As Tom Selleck’s Jesse Stone tells Dr. Dix, I sense a parable. Sometimes we need an entire paint job makeover and sometimes we need only to deal with the nicks and scratches.

Jesus used another analogy on the night in which he was betrayed and arrested. He taught his disciples a valuable lesson when he served the Passover meal, and when he served by washing their feet.

Foot washing was the job of a common servant after people walked dusty roads, and none

of the disciples offered to do this. Jesus removed his outer robe, took towel and basin and did the deed. He then taught them (and us) to wash one another’s feet.

My mother grew up in a church that practiced foot washing in worship, but I don’t know that I’ve ever seen it. Most of us believe foot washing is a synonym for humble service.

Nonetheless, Peter initially refused the overture of Jesus, then he decided to ask Jesus to wash him all over. Jesus replied that one who had been washed (bathed) only needed foot washing (John 13: 8-10).

That is, we’re cleansed when we repent of sin and trust Christ, but we also walk in the world and our feet get dirty.

We need to take care of the dust (or the nicks and scratches in the former illustration).

The Apostle John told the story about foot washing, and he relayed similar truth in his first letter. He said, “If we confess our sin, he is faithful

and just to forgive us” (1 John 1:9).

The word confess is a compound word in the original language of the New Testament. Homo is the word for same, as in homo sapiens humanity is of the same species.

Logeo is the verb form of the word logos, or word. Logeo means to speak. Thus confession is speaking the same thing as God. In other words, when the Holy Spirit of God makes followers of Christ aware of wrong, we agree. We don’t hide our sin. We cannot hide sin from God anyway, so it’s foolish to try. We agree with God’s judgment, and we forsake our wrong. Confession is like the washing of dirty feet.

We must do it every day. In this way we can remain spiritually clean before the Lord.

Reflections is a weekly devotional column written by Michael J. Brooks, pastor of the Siluria Baptist Church in Alabaster, Ala. The church's website is siluriabaptist.com.

The Trussville Tribune

Page 8

September 15 - 21, 2021

Important Safety Information About The Gas Lines In Your Area Most natural gas pipelines are buried underground. This is not only for safety reasons, but also to protect them from the weather and ensure reliable service for all consumers. Although pipeline leaks and incidents rarely occur, keeping the delivery of natural gas for everyone remains our highest priority.

Natural gas utility companies like ours set high standards to keep natural gas pipelines incident free. The natural gas industry invests billions of dollars in research, testing, damage prevention, training and awareness to ensure pipeline safety. The natural gas pipeline system is regulated by numerous federal and state government agencies.

In your area we work closely with public fire and safety officials to promote natural gas safety. Damage prevention education and training takes place at least once a year, so local officials are prepared and know how to respond if there ever is a natural gas emergency.

As your neighbors and a part of your community, we know the importance for everyone to be well informed and know how to respond in case of a natural gas emergency.

Detecting A Natural Gas Leak

Natural gas is one of the safest, most reliable and environmentally friendly fuels in use today, but leaks can occur. There are three key ways to recognize a natural gas leak.

Look

Blowing dirt, bubbling creeks or ponds, dry spots in moist areas or dead plants surrounded by green, live plants also may indicate a natural gas leak.

Listen

An unusual hissing sound near gas lines or appliances may indicate a natural gas leak.

Smell

In its raw state, natural gas is colorless and odorless. Natural gas utility companies add a substance called mercaptan to create the familiar, rotten-egg like odor you associate with natural gas. You should take action even if you detect only the faint odor of natural gas in the air.

Take Action For Safety

Here are some keywords to help you remember what to do if a natural gas leak is suspected.

Leave

Leave the area immediately. Do not try to find or stop the leak.

Don’t Touch

Do not smoke, use any type of phone, flashlight, turn on or off any lights or appliances or operate any kind of vehicle or equipment that could create a spark.

Dial

Immediately notify us.

(205) 655-3211 or 1-800-755-3211

Carbon Monoxide Safety

Carbon monoxide poisoning can occur if a natural gas appliance is operated in an enclosed space that has no access to fresh air. Because improper installation of gas appliances can lead to carbon monoxide build-up, it is important that only qualified, licensed service personnel install your gas appliances.

Carbon monoxide poisoning can be deadly.

Early signs of carbon monoxide poisoning resemble flu symptoms and include headache, dizziness and/or nausea. If you have any of these symptoms get fresh air immediately.

You may decide to purchase a carbon monoxide detector. If so, the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission recommends that the model you choose meets the Underwriters Laboratory Standard 2034.

Under no circumstances should a carbon monoxide detector be used as a substitute for regular inspections by qualified service personnel.

Maintaining Gas Lines

A major cause of pipeline leaks is thirdparty damage. This may include contractors or excavators digging, grading, and working along roadways. Please always notify Alabama One Call by dialing 811 no less than two days before starting any excavation.

What To Do if You Disturb Or Damage A Pipeline Or Natural Gas Line

Even if you cause what appears to be only minor damage to the pipeline, immediately notify the pipeline company. A gouge, scrape, dent or crease to the pipe or coating may cause a future rupture or leak. It is imperative that the pipeline owner inspects and repairs any damage to the line or related apparatus. Many states have laws requiring damages to be reported to the facility owner.

Do not attempt to make repairs to the line yourself.

Call Before You Dig

Pipelines may be located anywhere. This is why it is important to know where they are before digging for any reason.

Trussville Gas & Water is responsible for maintaining the gas lines that carry natural gas to your meter. However, you are responsible for all gas lines on your side of the meter. These lines include all piping that goes: • From your gas meter to the appliances on your property • From a curb side meter to the home, when the meter is not right beside the home • From your meter underground to a building, pool, spa heater, barbecue or other gas appliance.

When digging, excavating, drilling or moving earth in any way that could damage underground utility pipelines, you must contact Alabama One Call by dialing 811 no less than two days before starting the excavation. This will help avoid costly damage or injury.

Not maintaining gas pipelines could result in potential hazards due to leakage. To properly maintain your gas lines, you should have them periodically inspected to identify unsafe conditions including corrosion and leaks, and repair any unsafe conditions immediately. A licensed, qualified professional can assist you in finding, inspecting and repairing your buried gas lines.

A new, federally mandated national “Call Before You Dig” number, 811, was created to help protect you from unintentionally hitting underground utility lines while working on digging projects.

Markers Indicate Pipelines

Most natural gas pipelines are buried underground. Markers indicate only the general, not exact location of pipelines.

They also show the natural gas operator and emergency phone number. The markers do not show the depth of the pipelines or the number of pipelines. Underground gas lines on your property are not marked in most cases, so you should know the location of your gas meter. Be cautious when digging in areas where the lines may connect or extend from the meter to appliances on your property.

Every dig job requires a call, even small projects like planting trees or shrubs. If you hit an underground utility line while digging, you can harm yourself and those around you, disrupt service to an entire neighborhood and potentially be responsible for fines and repair costs. Smart digging means calling 811 before each job. Whether you are a homeowner or a professional excavator, one call to 811 gets your underground utility lines marked for free. Don’t assume you know what is below. Protect yourself and those around you– call 811 every time.

We Need Your Help

The nation’s infrastructures, including pipelines, are a matter of national security.

If you witness suspicious activity on a pipeline right-of-way, please report it to the appropriate authorities as soon as possible or call Trussville Gas & Water at (205) 6553211. Threat advisories may be found at the Department of Homeland Securities Web site at www.dhs.gov.

Trussville Gas & Water 127 Main Street Trussville, AL 35173 (205) 655-3211 Toll Free 1-800-755-3211

The Trussville Tribune

September 15 - 21, 2021

Calendar

Food for Fines September 1 @ 9:00 am September 30 @ 6:00 pm Free

Food for Fines is a monthlong event for all of the Public Libraries in Jefferson County. $1.00 in overdue fines will be waived for each unexpired, unopened, non-perishable food item you donate in September. Up to $10.00 per library card holder can be waived. This does not apply to lost or damaged items.

For more information, visit: http://www.jclc.org/foodforfines.aspx All food donations will go to local food pantries.

Venue Pinson Public Library 4410 Main Street AL United States National Library Card Signup Month Contest September 1 @ 9:00 am September 30 @ 6:00 pm Free

(All ages) September is National Library Card Signup Month!

Pinson Public Library is having a contest to help more people get library cards! If you already have a Jefferson County Library Cooperative card, simply take a selfie with your card or a photo of your library card in action & email it to

us at request@pinsonlibrary.org Don’t have a library card yet? Visit us to get a library card of your own & you’ll be entered into our contest.

At the end of September, we will randomly pick winners. Prizes are for all ages Venue Pinson Public Library (RSMC) 4509 Pinson Boulevard Pinson, AL 35126 United States

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(All ages) Drive through the World of Roald Dahl on 09/21 from 5 to 6 PM. We’ll have different book-themed stations set up in front of the library so you & your family to collect crafts, snacks, & more.

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The Trussville Tribune

Page 10

September 15 - 21, 2021

O b i t u a ry

Richard Anthony Smith

Linda Locket

april

april

17, 1957 – september 11, 2021 (64)

Richard Anthony Smith, age 64, of Trussville, passed away September 11, 2021. He is preceded in death by his parents Roy Smith and Virginia Phillips and his sister Renea Gaither (Jackie). Richard is survived by his children, Jessica Sampy (Mamadou), Rachel Smith, Ryan Smith and Julie Headstrom (Tim); siblings, Renea Gaither (Jackie), Gary Smith (Regina), Ricky Smith, Rhonda Emanuel Guzman and Ronald Smith (Katharina); grandchildren, Lyric Poe, and Massila Sampy, Reyah Smith, Bycen, Elijah and Hayden Headstrom as well as his beloved companion Diana Dew. Richard was a jokester. He loved to make people laugh. He was a great conversationalist and never met a stranger. He was an avid sports fan, who enjoyed country music, karaoke, vacationing to Wisconsin and long island ice tea. He felt that anything that was worth doing was worth doing well. Richard gave 100% to his job, his family and his friends. He was deeply loved and will be deeply missed. Services will be held at Deerfoot Memorial Funeral Home on Saturday, September 18, 2021.

Visitation from 1-2pm. Chapel service will begin at 2pm with burial following in Hopewell Baptist Church Cemetery.

Bishop Bruce LeVan will officiate.

Brian Scott Reed january

13, 1958 - september 5, 2021 (63)

Brian Scott Reed of Panama City Beach, Florida, died Sunday, September 5, 2021, at Gulf Coast Regional Medical Center.

Graveside services were held Friday, September 10, 2021, at 1 P.M., in Highland Memorial Gardens in Bessemer, Alabama. The Rev. Stephen Doss officiated with Chapman Funeral Home of Eufaula, Alabama directing.

Born in Birmingham, Alabama, Scott was the son of Sherry Bernice Noe Reed and the late Charles Edwin Reed, Sr..

Scott was raised in Trussville, Alabama where he attended grade school through high school, graduating from Hewitt Trussville High School in 1976. He was employed within the family business in Trussville run by his late father. He worked for Southtrust Bank in Birmingham for a short while before moving to Panama City Beach in the mid 1980’s.

He worked for another family enterprise where he managed the local establishment near the beach. He always loved all music but loved singing country music. He performed karaoke at Good Time Charlie’s regularly. He later became a self-employed real estate agent for 20+ years selling the gulf coast. A few years back he became a beachfront entrepreneur opening Beaches and Cream Ice Cream Shop where he was currently working. He was a devoted son to both his late father Charlie and his beloved mother Sherry until his untimely death. His family was important to him. He developed lifelong friendships with several friends from grade school onward and became parts of their families too. He spent special occasions from holidays, weddings, births and deaths through the good and bad.

Scott was a fixture in their lives as well. Not having children of his own, he became loving “Uncle Scott” to many of the children and grandchildren of his lifelong friends. He was routine in making sure to touch base with everyone by phone, text or visiting. Scott was a life-long Republican stating his opinions regardless of what company he was in. He would tell them exactly what he thought and loved doing it. The philosopher in Scott came out when he got started, with his statements being refered to as “Reedisms”. His view on life, liberty, freedom and happiness was vivid. You never had to worry with Scott, he was the same every time you saw him. Scott was a man of faith and was well read in scripture. He shared his life with many here on earth and will be greatly missed by all of us that loved him for just who he was…Scott.

Survivors other than his mother include 2 brothers: Charles E. “Breezie” Reed, Jr. and Mark (Hope) Reed.

Linda Marie (Hagwood) Park july

Our beloved Linda passed away unexpectedly on August 30, 2021. She lived with her two children in Trussville, Alabama. She is survived by her parents Jim and Norma Carroll and her two young children, daughter Chloe Lockett and son Max Lockett. She is also survived by her older sister, Anne Carroll Hepburn (TJ) and several aunts, uncles and cousins. Linda was born on April 29, 1976, in Birmingham, Alabama. She graduated from Hewitt-Trussville High School in 1994. After graduation she tried several careers but eventually came upon a career that was something that she truly loved and had a passion for. She had always been a kind and compassionate person and truly never met a stranger. She decided to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) which allowed her to use her love of compassionate caring. At the time of her death, she was employed by Aspire Physical Recovery Center at Cahaba River. She loved her work at Aspire and all her co-workers and patients appreciated her dedication. Linda attended Christ Church PCA in Trussville. Besides her love for the Lord, Linda loved her children more than anything else in her life. She was very proud of their accomplishments but was especially proud of Chloe in her softball endeavors. In the words of one softball mom, “Linda is a bear of a softball mom”. Linda also loved Auburn University and could usually be found in front of a television if any of Auburn’s teams were playing a game. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends and all who knew her. Expressions of love and sympathy may be sent in Linda’s name to Christ Church PCA, Jessie’s Place, or any other charity or organization of your choosing.

Brett D. Chandler

august 18, 1964 ~ september 6, 2021 (age 57)

Brett Duane Chandler, age 57 was welcomed home by Jesus on September 6, 2021. He was born on August 18, 1964, to Carlon M. and Pauline A. Chandler (both deceased). He graduated from the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa in 1986 with a bachelor’s degree in Business Finance, and received his B.S. in Accounting from the University of Alabama Birmingham. He enjoyed Alabama football. He loved his work and was a dedicated employee serving as the Controller at Kassouf Healthcare Solutions, LLC at the time of his death. He served on the ministerial staff at LifeChurch Birmingham in Trussville, Alabama for 25 years, 20 of which as full-time ministerial staff where he also served as an Elder and Teacher. His love for others, his Church and his ministry enabled him to reach far beyond his ministerial position. He wanted everyone to find the true freedom that comes when you fully give your life to Jesus Christ. He was an example of the love of Jesus, and he touched many lives with his smile, kind words, and encouragement. His love of God and family were the guiding strength in his life. He loved his children and grandchildren more than words could express.

He is survived by his loving wife of 30 years, Laura Lynn Chandler, his children Anna Nicole (Chris) Lucky and Carlon Andrew Chandler, two grandchildren, Ella Grace and Asher Bane, his brother James Craig (Brenda) Chandler along with a host of nieces and nephews. He is also survived by many friends who were like family to him.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on September 18, 2021, at 2 pm at LifeChurch Birmingham, 5567 Chalkville Mtn Road, Birmingham, AL 35235. Masks are required. The family will receive visitors one hour prior to the service beginning. The church will be streaming this service online via their facebook page for those who are not able to attend. The Facebook page is LifeChurch Birmingham.

In lieu of flowers the family has chosen to honor his memory by continuing his heart for giving to missions, both home and abroad, to the Brett Chandler Memorial Missions Fund at LifeChurch Birmingham. A gift can be made online by going to https://tinyurl.com/Brett-Chandler-Memorial.

25, 1943 ~ september 5, 2021 (age 78)

Linda Hagwood Park, age 78, of Birmingham, AL went home to be with the Lord on September 5, 2021. Linda graduated from Trussville High School in 1961. She married the love of her life in August of 1963, Louis Park and together they raised three children. Linda went to clown school and become a professional clown from 1998 until 2002. She volunteered many hours at Children’s Hospital of Alabama putting smiles on children’s faces. She was a longtime member of Wilson Chapel UMC where she volunteered in any ways she could. Linda was a giving person with big heart and her greatest gift to the world was offering her time to those in need.

Linda is survived by her loving husband of 58 years, Louis Park; her three children, Deborah Dumas (Eddie), Rusty Park (Sharon) and Wendy Lovell (James); her brother, Larry Hagwood (Ann); her nine grandchildren, and fourteen great grandchildren. A visitation for family and friends will be held from 11:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 9, 2021 at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home. The funeral for Linda will follow at 12:00 p.m. at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will take place at Jefferson Memorial’s adjoining gardens.

Currie-Jefferson & Jefferson Memorial Funeral Homes

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29, 1976 - august 30, 2021 (44)

Jean Lorraine (Clark) Morton january

16, 1933 ~ september 8, 2021 (age 88)

Jean Lorraine Morton 88 of Birmingham passed away Wednesday, September 8, 2021. Jean was born January 16, 1933 in North Carolina to Nettie and Jim Clark. Jean was a long time member of the McElwain Baptist Church, the Concordia Club Auxiliary for Women, the JBY Dance Club, Cheram’s Dance Club, Sophisticates, The Club and the Vestavia Monday Night Dancers. Jean is preceded in death by her husband, Howard C. Morton, her son, David C. Morton, her mother, Nettie Ellis Simmons Clark ,her father, Jim Conway Clark, 5 sisters and 7 brothers. Jean is survived by her beloved sons, Schley C. Morton (Traci), James H. Morton (Fay) and Kenneth W. Morton; her cherished grandchildren, Scott Morton (Ashley), Deborah Morton, Joseph W. Morton (Jesse) and Kenneth Chris Morton; and loved great grandchildren, Samuel Morton and Aspen Morton and her sister, Marie. The family will receive family and friends Monday, September 13, 2021 beginning at 10:00 am to 12:00 pm followed with a 12:00 Chapel service at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home with burial within Jefferson Memorial Gardens Cemetery, Birmingham, AL. Donations may be made St Jude Hospital at www.stjude.org.

Gary Jay Isbell april

11, 1973 ~ september 10, 2021 (age 48)

Gary Jay Isbell, age 48, of Odenville, AL went home to be with the Lord on September 10, 2021. Jay was born on April 11, 1973 to Jim and Jeannette Isbell. He was the youngest of 12 children. He was a native of Hueytown, AL where he grew up and spent most of his life. He was a loving husband, father, stepfather, grandfather, and brother. Jay had a big heart and was always willing to lend a helping hand to friends and family. He was an outgoing man who never met a stranger and was active in his community. Jay enjoyed drag racing in his spare time.

Jay was preceded in death by his parents, one sister, Kathy Bailey; two brothers, Donald and Jimmy Isbell; He is survived by his loving wife of five years, Jennifer L. Isbell; his son, Corey Isbell and his fiancé, Taylor Nichols; stepson, Trip Oden; one grandson, Brantley Isbell; his brothers and sisters, Michael Isbell (Jane), Karen Fritz (Chet), Paula Hill (Hershel), Penny Isbell, Barry Isbell, Mark Isbell (Lisa), Kenneth Isbell (Lisa), Laura Price (Mike); along with a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family. He also leaves behind his loyal companion of the past 11 years, Sadie Lynn.

Family and friends will gather for visitation on Tuesday, September 14, 2021 from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home. The funeral service will follow at 7:00 p.m. at Jefferson Memorial Chapel. Graveside will take place at Liberty Cemetery 15509 US-411 Odenville, AL 35120 on Wednesday, September 15, 2021. Brother Jeff Isbell will preside over the services.

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Jerry Ann Kendrick july

Open to all who have been impacted by a death and

24, 1936 ~ september 10, 2021 (age 85)

Mrs. Jerry Ann Peebles Kendrick, 85, of Birmingham, Alabama, passed away on September 10th, 2021. While it is so difficult to say goodbye to someone we love with all our hearts, we find comfort in the long-awaited heavenly reunion with her youngest son, Jerry “Dale” Kendrick, Sr.

those who are trying to comfort friends and loved ones who are suffering a loss.

Jerry Ann was born on July 24th, 1936, in Sandusky, Alabama, daughter of the late Jake and Mary Peebles. She was raised in Adamsville, Alabama, along with her sister, Peggy, and three brothers, Billy, Jack and Ronald.

She married Jackson H. Kendrick, Sr., her beloved husband of 66 years, on August 13th, 1955. She was a wonderful mother to her three sons, Donnie Kendrick, Jackson H. Kendrick, Jr. (Donna), and Jerry Dale Kendrick, Sr. (Donnette).

Her greatest joys in life were her grandchildren, Brad Kendrick, Dale Kendrick (Brooke), Brandy Sutherlin (Craig), and great-grandchildren, Nolan, Ella, Asher, Crew and Emmie.

LOCATED AT: Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home & Gardens

1591 Gadsden Hwy. Birmingham, AL 35235

Jerry Ann, better known as “Granny”, treasured her time spent with her husband, sons, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She took great joy in cooking, baking and sharing recipes with her friends and family. Her famous coconut cake was the most requested dessert at every family gathering. She loved collectibles and antiques, but most of all, she loved being “Mother” and “Granny”.

Please call early to reserve your place.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, September 15th, from 12:00 - 2:00 PM at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home in Trussville. The funeral service, officiated by Charles Click, will take place at 2:00 PM. Burial to follow at Jefferson Memorial Gardens.

Or register online at www.jmgardens.com

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Matthew Cunningham passed away peacefully on September 8, 2021 surrounded by his loving family.

Matthew was preceded in death by his father: Ricky Cunningham, paw-paw: Frank Funderburg, grandmother: Lora Addy, and his dearest aunt and uncle: Peggy Cunningham and Jim Reddinger.

Left to grieve Matthew’s passing are: his mom: Joyce Cunningham, step-dad: Mike Whitfield, sister: Katie Whitfield, maw-maw: Gloria Smith, and many loving aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends Despite his disabilities, Matthew lived life to the fullest and loved deeply. He was always eager to serve his community. He attended the ARC of St. Clair County day center where he made many lasting memories. Matthew was not only a founding member of the Moody Miracle League but also a founding member of the MCA Kiwanis Aktion Club. Most dear to him was his love for Jesus, his church, and church family. He was honored to be the door greeter for FBC Moody. He attended the Exceptionally His ministry and Joy Club to share his love of the Lord with others. Matthew enjoyed talking to his friends and family every night on the phone, going to car shows with his step-dad Mike, and playing video games with his sister Katie.

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Page 11

sports Hewitt-Trussville at Thompson High school football 7p.m., September 17, 2021

Moody vs. Center Point High school football 7p.m., September 17, 2021

Leeds vs. Hayden High school football 7p.m., September 17, 2021

The Trussville Tribune September 15 - 21, 2021

Hewitt-Trussville looks for its chance against Thompson

By Bobby Mathews Sports editor

TRUSSVILLE — Squint a little, and the story of David and Goliath might fit.

Friday night, September 17, two of the top teams in Alabama will face off when Hewitt-Trussville travels to Alabaster to face off against Thompson.

In this analogy, Thompson High School, a giant of a program that’s won two straight 7A state football championships, is Goliath. They are ranked No. 1 in the state, and it’s easy to see why.

This is a team that has given up exactly three points over the course of the 2021 season so far.

Hewitt-Trussville takes the field against Tuscaloosa County on September 10, 2021. The fourthranked Huskies take on No. 1 Thompson on Friday, September 17. (Photo by Bobby Mathews

The Warriors have bludgeoned their foes, racking up a pair of 55-0 wins against Oxford and Sparkman to open the season, and then a 58-0 drubbing of Tuscaloosa County. In the fourth game of the season, Spain Park was able to hold Thompson under 50 points, and was able to score against them in a 49-3 loss.

Thompson is, in a word, impressive. At least at first blush.

But it is, perhaps, time to question how good the Warriors actually are. Of the four programs they have beaten, not a single one has a winning record.

See HUSKIES, Page 13

Leeds deals Moody first loss of season in ‘Battle of the Bridge’

By Will Heath For The Tribune

LEEDS — The atmosphere on Friday night at Homer Smiles Field felt special, as undefeated neighbors met in front of a packed house.

Leeds senior Rametrius Yelverton, though, called it

“just another game for me.”

“I love my community,” he said. “That’s just what we do. We just win.”

Yelverton and the 4th ranked Green Wave have already done plenty of that in 2021. With archrival Moody in town, Yelverton and the Leeds running game were the

stars in a 33-19 victory.

The senior finished with 162 of Leeds’ 375 rushing yards against Moody, scoring three touchdowns.

“I just told my boys to give me a little push, and it was money time,” he said. “Give me three seconds, and I’m gone.”

That offensive effort from

Leeds (4-0, 2-0) was enough to withstand an effort from the visiting Blue Devils (3-1, 1-1), who opened the scoring with a 35-yard touchdown from AJ Wallace to junior wideout Davion Dozier on only the third play from scrimmage. It was the first of 3 scores for Dozier, who finished with 148 yards

Huskies’ Finkley commits to Texas Longhorns

By Bobby Mathews Sports Editor

TRUSSVILLE — HewittTrussville senior defensive lineman Justice Finkley committed to play football at the University of Texas during a Thursday afternoon press conference.

Finkley, a 6’2, 270-pound four-star recruit, has 170 total tackles, with 13 sacks and three forced fumbles throughout his varsity career so far.

See FINKLEY, Page 13

Springville falls to Fort Payne, drops to 1-2 From The Tribune staff reports

receiving. Wallace accounted for 342 of Moody’s 345 total yards on Friday.

“The overriding theme of the night for me, was how much respect that Moody made us get for them,” said Leeds head coach Jerry Hood.

SPRINGVILLE — Nothing came easy here on Friday night for the Springville Tigers, as region foe Fort Payne came to town and took a 27-14 victory to drop Springville to 1-2 overall and 0-1 in Region play.

Fort Payne pulled away late, moving out to a 27-7 lead in the fourth quarter after Darrell D. Prater ran in a 2-yard touchdown with about five minutes left.

See LEEDS, Page 13

See FORT PAYNE, Page 13

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The Trussville Tribune

Page 12

Hewitt-Trussville stomps Tuscaloosa County to go 4-0

By Bobby Mathews Sports Editor

TRUSSVILLE — A garbage-time touchdown is all that stood in the way of Hewitt-Trussville here Friday night as the Huskies romped all over Tuscaloosa County, 42-7.

Senior wide receiver Ryan Shoop played his best game of the seasons, catching five balls — two of those for critical first downs to keep drives moving — and a touchdown from Cade Ott Carruth to help the Huskies go up 28-0 at the half.

"I just tried to play my game," Shoop said. "On that touchdown, I was just thinking 'I hope I catch it.'"

Tuscaloosa County's best offense may have been its punt team. The Wildcats recovered two fumbled punts

by Hewitt-Trussville and then had a 71-yard punt to switch up field position against Hewitt-Trussville. Tuscaloosa County didn't even have a

Omari Kelly heads upfield against Tuscaloosa County during a 42-7 victory on September 10, 2021. Photo by Ron Burkett

first down until near midway through the second quarter when the Wildcats threatened to score.

A defensive stand sent Tuscaloosa County backward, and as they lined up for a field goal try, the Huskies stuffed the middle, and someone in the pile — it was impossible to tell who — got a hand on the ball to send it spinning away.

Hewitt-Trussville got the

scoring started with a 16-play drive that ended when Carruth hit Jordan McCants for a 15-yard touchdown with 6:49 left to go in the first quarter. Riley Rigg, who hasn't missed an extra point so far this season, drilled the extra point and the Huskies were up 7-0.

After Bam White and Hunter Jones poured it on defensively, the Wildcats were forced to punt after

only three plays. Tuscaloosa County would get the ball right back after a James Hammonds fumble, but Riggs Dunn stepped in front of a Brax Garrison pass to take the ball right back for the Huskies.

The Huskies then put together a 9-play drive that ate the clock, racking up four first downs before Carruth scored on a one-yard run with 1:14 left in the first quarter. Rigg's PAT was good, and the Huskies led 14-0.

The Wildcats couldn't do anything on offense again, with linebacker White breaking up a pass to force fourthand-seven. But a muffed punt gave the ball back to Tuscaloosa County, and the defense was back on the field.

Hammonds capped a fiveplay scoring drive with a fiveyard TD run, and Riggs added the PAT. With 10:42 to go in the second quarter, it was 210, Huskies.

See STOMPS, Page 13

Center Point beats down Lincoln in first home game of season

By Bobby Mathews Sports Editor

CENTER POINT — The early part of the 2021 season hasn’t quite gone the way anyone expected for Center Point. The Eagles were supposed to open at Wenonah, a game the Dragons forfeited due to COVID-19.

Two road losses — one to Fairfield on statewide TV and the next to defending region champs Alexandria left Center Point 1-2 on the season

It was two weeks of tough sledding for Center Point, but the Eagles got back in the win column Friday night against Lincoln. (Photo by Bobby Mathews)

and searching for answers.

They found some of those Friday night when Lincoln came to town and the Eagles flew, 44-10.

Center Point was led by quarterback Jabari Collier, who went 8-of-11 for 131 yards and two scores, while Troy Bruce led the way on the ground with 22 carries for 164 yards and three touchdowns. Harold Holloman had three catches for the Eagles for 55 yards and a touchdown.

September 15 - 21, 2021

Clay-Chalkville mauls Gardendale to stay perfect

By Joe Crowe For The Tribune

GARDENDALE — The Clay-Chalkville Cougars mauled their opposition as the Gardendale Rockets fell apart on the launchpad Friday night.

This battle of 6A region 6 schools at Gardendale’s Driver Stadium was ClayChalkville’s first league game of the season, and everything appeared to go right for the away team. On the other side, the Gardendale Rockets were unable to put any score on the board during their first game on their new artificial turf field.

In the first quarter alone, the Cougars racked up 16 points, including a pair of 2-point conversions. Wide receiver Jaylen Mbakwe made a 13-yard reception that put the score at 16.

In the second quarter, with under a minute left, ClayChalkville completed a pass for another score, and then a third two-point conversion brought the game to 24-0 at halftime.

The best thing that can be said for Gardendale in the second half is that the team held Clay-Chalkville scoreless … for about four minutes, then QB Khalib Johnson completed a 4-yard pass to Deion Gunn for a touchdown, followed by yet another conversion, pushing the score to 32-0.

The Cougars rushed for another TD as the fourth quarter began, and hit 40.

With fewer than two minutes remaining in the game,

the Cougars kept rushing forward, literally, as another rushing TD put the game’s final score at 46-0.

Johnson teamed up with running back Ed Osley for 314 offensive yards. Cam’ron Williams relieved Osley with six carries for 21 yards.

Mbakwe made three total catches that resulted in two touchdowns, with scores on a 13-yard reception and a 43yard reception.

“It was a good team win.

I’m really proud of how they played,” said head coach Drew Gilmer. “They played really good on all three aspects of the game: the defense play was extraordinary. They did a really good job tackling and putting them behind the chains all night offensively.

That was really the key for us.”

The Cougars scored on every two-point conversion attempt except one. Gilmer said, “A little luck never hurts.”

The Rockets’ loss brought the team to 2-2 on the season, with zero wins in region play.

The Cougars are 4-0 on the season and 2-0 in 6A play.

Gilmer looked ahead to Sept. 17’s regional contest, as the Cougars hit the road to Adamsville to take on Minor High School’s Tigers.

“We’ve got a good team in Minor coming in next week. In a short turnaround, we’ve got to get ready for Minor coming in with another big region game. Then after that, we have a little bye week and get ready for the second half of the season,” Gilmer said.

September 15 - 21, 2021

Finkley From page 11

He’s also recovered three fumbles. Through the first three games in 2021, Finkley has 9 solo tackles and 10 assists, with two tackles for loss.

“I’ve been talking to Coach Sarkisian two to three times a week,” Finkley said, adding that the relationship he built with the firstyear Longhorns coach is a key reason he chose Texas.

narrowed his choices to Alabama, Colorado and Texas.

“Coach Sarkisian is a great relationship guy,” Finkley said. “I think anytime you play football in the state of Alabama there’s a lot of pressure to go to Alabama.”

That pressure didn’t faze Finkley.

“It really didn’t matter, because I knew I was going to be a difference-maker wherever I went,” he said.

Finkley, described by coaches as a “freak athlete”

The Trussville Tribune Huskies From page 11

Oxford and Sparkman are both 2-2, while Tuscaloosa County and Spain Park are both 1-3.

Contrast that with Hewitt-Trussville, who defeated the reigning 6A state champions, Pinson Valley, to start the season. Saraland, vanquished in the second game of the season, is 2-2. And then there are the common opponents, Tuscaloosa County and Spain Park.

With both teams 4-0, No. 4-ranked Hewitt can argue that its resume is equally impressive, with a victory over an excellent state championship team.

Thompson is, understandably, favored to win. But if

Hewitt-Trussville is David in this analogy, then David’s got some serious weaponry.

Offensively, Cade Ott Carruth must come through on Friday night. The senior quarterback has thrown for 1,006 yards through four games, with seven touchdowns and one interception. He has two receivers with FBS-level ability in Omari Kelly and Jordan McCants.

McCants averages 15.9 yards a catch and can be explosive with the ball in his hands.

Kelly, who averages 14.7 yards a catch, is the Huskies’ big-play threat either receiving or running. The pair have three touchdowns each, while Kelly has added a score on the ground as well. Ryan Shoop averages 12.8 yards a catch and has one score.

Page 13 The rushing game is powered by James Hammonds, who is averaging 112.5 yards per game on the ground. He’s rushed for six scores and caught another.

Defensively, the Huskies are led by Justice Finkley, who has 13 solo tackles and 23 total tackles through four games.

Finkley is averaging a sack a game, and has caused one fumble and recovered another. Hunter Osborne has 9 solo tackles, 14 total tackles and a sack. Tyrel Averhart, a sophomore, had two sacks in the Huskies’ victory over Tuscaloosa County and three on the season.

As obsessed (and rightly so) over Finkley and the rest of the defensive line as most offensive coaches are, that opens up huge opportunities for Hunter Jones at linebacker.

Leeds

quarter, Wallace and the Blue Devils sprang to life with an 80-yard drive to open the fourth quarter. His third touchdown, a 5-yard toss to Dozier, made the score 26-19 with just over 9 minutes to play.

Leeds’ Jeremiah Hunter put the game away, however, breaking free for a 56-yard touchdown run on the next possession.

“At the end of the day, I think we’re leaving a better

football team than we came over here,” said Moody head coach Adam Wallace. “We just gave the No. 4 team in the state everything they wanted, so we got to learn from it and get better.”

The atmosphere in pregame was truly special, with fans packing the grandstand and ringing the field on all sides.

Wallace called it “what high school football’s all about,” and Hood agreed.

“Really, I was so proud of Leeds and Moody, the cities, being together, packing out Homer Smiles Field,” he said.

“That’s good high school football.”

Leeds will host Hayden next week for Homecoming.

Moody will return home to face Center Point.

White and Tyrell Averhart took turns chasing down Tuscaloosa County's Garrison, hounding him all night. At the half, the Wildcats had -1 passing yards.

The Hewitt-Trussville varsity offense would add one more score when Carruth ran

for another touchdown, taking a 13-yard jaunt to paydirt with 4:20 left in the third quarter to make it 35-0.

With the second-team offense in, Peyton Floyd ran tough between the tackles to a four-yard touchdown with 6:59 left to make it 42-0.

Tuscaloosa County was finally able to move the ball against the Huskies' second unit, with senior wideout Gavin Gardner breaking open in the middle of the end zone to catch a touchdown pass with 2:26 left in the game to make the final 42-7.

From page 11

Justice Finkley committed to the Texas Longhorns to play college football during a press conference September 9, 2021.

(Photo by Bobby Mathews)

“I didn’t know Texas was heading to the SEC, but I’m going to adjust to that and be ready.”

The quiet, confident senior leaves to enroll in college early.

“Texas is getting a great athlete, a great student,” he said. “I’m ready to put in the work. I leave (for Austin) in December.”

The senior had multiple scholarship offers from major programs across the country, including offers from several SEC programs.

Earlier this season, Finkley

Fort Payne From page 11

Quarterback Asa Morrison got the Tigers closer

has a reputation as a player who never takes a rep off in practice. He leads a defense that has given up an average of 14.67 points per game through three games in 2021, including a shutout victory over Saraland during the second week of the season.

“He genuinely liked all three options,” said Hewitt-Trussville head coach Josh Floyd. “He saw value in all three schools.

He’s a great representative of Hewitt-Trussville on and off the field.”

when he scored on a touchdown run with a little over 3 minutes to go. The PAT made it 27-14, but time was running down.

“(Dozier) is the real deal, and (Wallace) is the real deal.”

But the Leeds offense was equally unstoppable. Leeds’ Devonte Megginson gave the Green Wave the lead on the ensuing possession, with a 2-yard touchdown run. Quarterback Jarod Latta scored on the following drive, from 10 yards away.

By halftime, the Green Wave led 26-13, and had not yet lined up in punt formation.

They would punt only once the entire game. “(Moody’s) type of offense is going to get some plays, and you just have to keep playing,” Hood said.

After a scoreless third

Stomps From page 12

On a 12-play drive in which the Huskies converted five first downs, the Huskies went up 28-0 with 11 seconds left to play in the half when Carruth found Shoop for a nine-yard score.

Jones has 23 solo tackles and 33 overall, and has recovered one fumble. Bam White is flying under the radar, but he’s having a strong senior season, with 23 solo tackles and 32 overall, with 1.5 sacks so far, an interception as well as causing a fumble.

K.J. Jackson and Connor Thomas will have to be on their game against a prolific Thompson attack.

Does Hewitt-Trussville measure up to Thompson?

Friday night will tell the tale.

In 2020, the Huskies gave Thompson their most competitive game of the season, a 3521 heartbreaker in Trussville.

The year before, the Huskies knocked off the eventual state champs, 35-29 in the only game the Warriors have lost in two-and-a-half years.

Rametrius Yelverton, Jarod Latta and the rest of the Green Wave rolled over upstart Moody, 33-19 on Friday, September 10, 2021.

The Trussville Tribune

Page 14

September 15 - 21, 2021

Leeds’ Yelverton Leeds named Tribune named Tribune Player Team of the Week of the Week

Rametrius Yelverton ran for 162 yards and three touchdowns to lead Leeds to victory against Moody on Friday, Sept. 10, 2021. (Photo by Ron Burkett)

By Bobby Mathews Sports editor

LEEDS — In an area stuffed with good running backs, it can be easy to overlook Leeds senior halfback Rametrius Yelverton.

He’s 5-6 and 157 pounds.

But he runs like nobody’s business, and he’s a major reason Leeds is ranked No. 4 in Class 5A and has a 4-0 record.

It’s impossible to discount Yelverton’s importance to the Green Wave. Friday night against a tough Moody team, Yelverton put Leeds on his back and led his team to a 33-19 win, racking up 162 yards rushing and three touchdowns.

“That’s just what we do,” Yelverton told reporters after the game. “We just win.”

The Green Wave does, in fact, just win. And Yelverton running behind a strong, physical Green Wave front

line is one of those reasons.

“I just told my boys to give me a little push, and it was money time,” he said.

“Give me three seconds, and I’m gone.”

Yelverton did what all great players do: He stepped up when his team needed it.

Against a Moody squad that is the best team the Blue Devils have fielded in more than a generation, Yelverton was nearly unstoppable.

Moody allowed 15 points per game coming into the Battle of the Bridge. By the end of the night, Yelverton himself was responsible for nearly half of the Green Wave’s rushing yards.

The senior has been a difference-maker for Leeds all season. In week 0, he helped the Green Wave come back from a 14-0 deficit to down Sylacauga, 40-20. Yelverton had 123 yards — 115 of them after halftime — and two touchdowns against the

Aggies.

He added 93 yards on 21 carries on the road against Pell City to help Leeds to a 2-0 record. And again on the road, this time against Lincoln, Yelverton simply was the Green Wave’s offense. He had 147 yards of total offense and scored all three touchdowns in Leeds’ come-frombehind 19-13 victory.

In many ways, Yelverton embodies the Green Wave: the work ethic, the refusal to quit, the nose-to-the-grindstone get-it-done attitude.

That’s why he’s The Tribune’s Player of the Week.

Others considered for Player of the Week this week include: Moody’s A.J. Wallace, Center Point’s Troy Bruce, Hewitt-Trussville’s Ryan Shoop, ClayChalkville’s Ed Osley and Pinson Valley’s Mike Sharpe.

The Tribune’s Player of the Week is sponsored by OrthoAlabama Spine & Sports.

Yelverton is 5-6 and 157 pounds. It’s impossible to discount Yelverton’s importance to the Green Wave. Yelverton led his team to a 33-19 win, racking up 162 yards rushing and three touchdowns.

PHOTO BY Jason McCrory

In a battle of 3-0 teams, Leeds ran up 375 yards of rushing offense to put away Moody, 33-19, to with the Battle of the Bridge. (Photo by Ron Burkett)

By Bobby Mathews Sports Editor

LEEDS — The team that wins the game of the week should be the team of the week, right?

Right.

For those not paying attention, the biggest game of the week was fourth-ranked Leeds vs. undefeated upstart Moody in the Battle of the Bridge.

It didn’t matter that this Moody team was 3-0 for the first time since 1996. It didn’t matter that the Blue Devils went up early — a 35yard strike from A.J. Wallace found Davion Dozier for a score on just the third play of the game — Leeds just continued to do what it’s done all season long: the Green Wave played team football and relied on its physicality to outlast its opponent.

They never got down on themselves. Even when Wallace racked up 342 combined

yards from his quarterback position, the defense rose up and only allowed 19 points.

Every member of the Leeds team deserves recognition, from junior quarterback Jarod Latta to senior running back Rametrius Yelverton to the stalwart offensive line that opened holes all night for Yelverton and Jeremiah Hunter and Devonte Megginson.

The Green Wave didn’t punt in the entire first half. In fact, they would only need to punt once for the entire game.

The defensive line created havoc for much of the night for Leeds, with Kavion Henderson, Cody Saulisbury andTucker Summers limiting the Blue Devils running attack while C.J. Douglas, Demarion Keenan and Tanner Chambers patrolled the defensive backfield.

The Leeds defense played incredibly well. While Wallace was a factor, the rest of the Blue Devils team was

held to only three yards of total offense.

That’s not a misprint.

But this game, no matter how the final score looks, is not a tale of dominance. It’s a story that the city of Leeds itself can relate to. It’s about toughness, and grit, and determination, and what someone does in gut-check time.

After a scoreless third quarter and clinging to a 2613 lead, the Green Wave gave up an 80-yard touchdown drive. With 9 minutes remaining in the fourth quarter, the Blue Devils scored to make it 26-19. Down by only 7, Moody might have thought it had momentum.

Instead, Hunter iced the game on Leeds’ next possession with a 56-yard run for a score. The Green Wave vanquished their upstart foes and are The Tribune’s Team of the Week.

The Tribune Team of the Week is sponsored by Courtesy GMC.

Leeds Green Wave

CONGRATULATIONS Rametrius!

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