The Trussville Tribune – Sep. 27 - Oct. 3, 2023

Trussville Council adopts budget, plans to leave Jefferson County Personnel Board

By Crystal McGough

Editor

TRUSSVILLE – The Trussville City Council adopted its budget for the 2024 fiscal year on Tuesday, Sept. 26, during the council’s regular meeting. The budget, as

Pinson City Council discusses trash pickup rates

By Nathan Prewett

For the Tribune

PINSON – The Pinson City Council discussed requests for proposals or RFP for residential trash pickup at a meeting on Thursday, Sept. 21.

During the pre-council session, the council discussed

Moody City Council adopts 20-year comprehensive plan

By Nathan Prewett

For the Tribune

MOODY – The Moody City Council adopted its 20year comprehensive plan, otherwise known as Moody at the Crossroads, during a meeting on Monday, Sept. 25.

The plan was adopted by

Moody-based business 4 Him Catering is open and ready to serve

By Crystal McGough

Editor MOODY – Many people dream of pursuing their passion, but few have what it takes to make that leap of faith into the unknown and pursue their dreams.

For Moody resident Ka-

See

Page 6

Trussville awarded $8 million in federal funding for railroad improvement

By Chase Holmes News Reporter

TRUSSVILLE — The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) of the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) announced funding approval for a project to improve rail lines that run through Trussville on Monday, Sept. 25.

The Reduce Extended Delays; Enhance Safety; and Invest in Growing Neighborhoods (R.E.D.E.S.I.G.N.)

Project will receive funding up to $8 million to improve two segments of Norfolk Southern’s rail lines.

The project will potentially involve the development of track, bridge, signal, road re-alignment, and grade crossing improvements (including grade separations and closure of multiple crossings) along the chosen rails. The project intends to improve community safety and access to schools and residential areas by reducing blocked train encounters while increasing

the fluidity of freight and Amtrak’s Crescent passenger rail operations.

A combination of funding from the City of Birmingham, the City of Trussville, and Norfolk Southern Railway will contribute a 20 percent

non-Federal match.

Mayor Buddy Choat of Trussville said he was excited to hear the project, which has been over a year in the making, had passed and explained a bit more about what they were looking to do in Truss-

Irondale honors Pastor

Mike

McClure Jr. with Key to the City

By Terry Schrimscher

For the Tribune

ville.

“What this study is going to do is look into adding more rail to decrease stoppages [at Mary Taylor Road]. There is a chance we may even look into

Free Pinchgut Revival Bluegrass & Folk Festival to be held on Trussville Mall in October

By Crystal McGough Editor

TRUSSVILLE – Trussville nonprofit Friends of Pinchgut Creek will be bringing a day of free fun for the whole family to the Trussville community on Sunday, Oct. 15, 2023. The organization will be hosting its inaugural Pinchgut Revival Bluegrass and Folk Festival from 2-6 p.m. on the historic Trussville Mall, located at 360 North Chalkville Road.

“We are hosting this event as a way to say thank you to our amazing community,” FoPC said on its Facebook event page. “Our group has received tremendous support and we have been able to accomplish some big things in a short period of time because of that support. Now it’s time to party!”

FoPC is a local organization founded in 2021 by Jean Cox to help clean up and protect the Cahaba River watershed, with a particular focus on the headwaters that flow

MARTY’S TRUSSVILLE

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Outdoors - Page 13

Lifestyle - Page 14

Calendar - Page 15

Classified - Page 15

Obituary - Page 16

Sports - Pages 17-20

through Trussville, including the three-mile-long Pinchgut Creek.

“We’re named Friends of Pinchgut Creek, and we do take care of Pinchgut Creek, but we actually work in all of the Cahaba headwaters,” Cox said. “When we do our cleanup events, we clean up Dry Creek, the main body of the Cahaba River, and Pinchgut Creek. One of our biggest goals is to raise awareness of the importance of urban tributaries and to help people understand that all these little creeks join together to form the Cahaba River; and to take care of the river, we have to take care of all the little creeks that flow into that river.”

The organization has wanted to host a bluegrass festival since its foundation, and recently, with support from Rep. Danny Garrett, received a tourism grant to help make the dream a reality.

“We had an opportunity to give back to the commu-

Robin’s Sewing Shoppe

www.robinshoppe.com

5886 Trussville Crossings Blvd 205.655.3388

- Fabric

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- Classes - Demos

Center Point approves previously denied rezoning request for rescue home for homeless seniors

By Terry Schrimscher

Argo approves 2023-24 budget, moves to fourday work week

By Terry Schrimscher

For the Tribune

ARGO – The Argo City Council met Monday night, Sept. 25, for the second regularly scheduled meeting of the month. Most of the discussion was covered in the work session prior to the meeting. The first presentation of the meeting came from Don

See ARGO, Page 7

IRONDALE – The Council Chamber at Irondale City Hall was nearly full Tuesday night, Sept. 19, for the second regular meeting of the Irondale City Council. Mayor James D. Stewart Jr. took a few minutes in his report to Leeds Art

Council to perform The Addams Family Musical next month

By Chase Holmes News Reporter

LEEDS — The Leeds Art Council is putting on their unique performance of The Addams Family Musical just in time for the Halloween season in October.

See LEEDS, Page 4

Railroad tracks behind Trussville Playstation (Credit: Matt McGough)

L oca L / R egion

Festival

From front page nity and we wanted to use that opportunity to say thank you and host a free event for people to come out and learn a little bit about watershed health and the different animals that we have in our Cahaba in Trussville,” said Brett Martin, FoPC board member and head of the Revival Committee. “It’s really just a good excuse to throw a bluegrass and folk art festival, too.”

During the festival, there will be three hours of music provided by local bluegrass bands Random Mountain Ramblers, The Yellow Dandies and Cheshire Possum. There will also be an hour of stage time devoted to water-

more. Local nonprofit organizations will have booths to teach the community about the work they do, as well.

“It’s going to be a lot of fun,” Cox said. “The Historical Society is going to be at

Cavalier Healthcare of Trussville to hold ribbon cutting ceremony in early October

From The Tribune staff reports TRUSSVILLE — Cavalier Healthcare of Trussville is set to hold a open house ribbon-cutting ceremony in October.

The ceremony will take

Railroad

From front page adding a bridge. If it comes to fruition, it increases safer travel options for our citizens. We are glad to hear the news because we weren’t sure if it was going to pass,” said Mayor Choat. “We appreciate Birmingham working with us to get this to pass and our partners at Norfolk Southern.”

FRA Administrator Amit Bose said the projects will go to modernize and strengthen America’s railways.

place from 4- 6 p.m. at their location at 119 Waterson Parkway on Thursday, Oct. 5, 2023. The ribbon will be cut at 4:30 p.m. Cocktails and appetizers will be served.

Attendees can RSVP and register to win door prizes by calling (501) 247-6573.

shed and animal education, with guest presenters Fresh Air Family and Urban Turtle Project.

“We’re trying to keep that Sunday afternoon, oldtimey, family-gathering kind of vibe,” Martin said. “That’s kind of the idea with the play on words with ‘revival,’ as far as revitalizing our watersheds. To me, we’re trying to revive our community’s interest in our natural surroundings, which is in my opinion one of the big reasons that a lot of residents love Trussville so much.”

With the exception of food trucks and art vendors, the entire festival will be free including bouncy houses, face painting, kids’ craft areas and

the Revival and they’re going to have historical pictures of Pinchgut Creek and the Cahaba River. People can come out and learn a lot about our group, but then there’s also going to be opportunities for people to learn about nearby land preserves. We’re going to have Ruffner Mountain, Turkey Creek and Big Canoe Creek Preserve.”

While this is the first Pinchgut Revival festival, both Cox and Martin said they don’t plan for it to be the last.

“We’re hoping to make this an annual event,” Martin said. “The Pinchgut Revival is an opportunity for FoPC to say thank you to the community for helping us work

towards protecting Pinchgut Creek and the Cahaba headwaters through education, community involvement and advocacy, and also renew interest in all the natural beauty the city of Trussville has to offer.”

This event has been made possible by funding from the Alabama Department of Tourism and the following event sponsors: Thai Basil, Alabama Scenic River Trails, Cahaba River Society, The Nature Conservency, Blue Spring Living Water, Cahaba Sign and Design Co., Guitar Pros, Whistle Stop Garden Shop, Sanitary Rug Cleaners, Icon Golf Carts, Nelson Properties, Milos Tea, Alabama Outdoors, Big Canoe Creek

Oufitters, BeeHam Honey, S&B Contractos, Calico Fly Fishing, Clayne Crawford Foundation, Dr. Matt Brown/ Fresh Air Family, Urban Turtle Project.

“For years, the CRISI Program has helped to maintain and modernize America’s freight rail network, and it’s the only federal grant program prioritizing smaller, short line railroads vital to our nation’s economy and regional supply chains. With unprecedented levels of funding through President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, FRA is advancing even more projects and laying the groundwork for further transformation,” said Bose. “The selected projects will tackle issues facing communities and invest in a 21st century rail network yielding great-

er benefits – faster and more reliable deliveries of goods, safer communities, cleaner transportation, and more jobs and workforce development opportunities.”

The total amount being given to Alabama for rail improvement across the state is almost $65 million and covers four rail improvement projects including R.E.D.E.S.I.G.N. The four projects are part of a larger nation-wide railroad initiative that has seen over $1.4 billion invested into 70 railroad projects in 35 states and Washington D.C.

Random Mountain Ramblers

Fresh Air Family

The Yellow Dandies

Urban Turtle Project Cheshire Possum

Tracks near Trussville Springs (Credit: Matt McGough)

Brandi McClaran, director, said that viewers should come prepared to experience a new story in the long history of The Addams Family.

“The synopsis of the show is a little bit different from what you might expect if you’re a traditional Addams family viewer. Wednesday is all grown up and she has a secret. She has met a boy she wants to marry who she has defined as normal. She is keeping this secret from her mother and everyone else until the boy’s family comes to meet the family for dinner,” McClaran said. “Its very humorous but it has some sweet moments as well.”

Over 28 local performers are ready to put on a show, several of which have performed the play before.

Performances will be held throughout October with two different times available. October 5, 6, 7, 12, 13, 14 will have performances at 7 p.m. while October 8 and 15 will have a showing at 2:30 p.m.

For ticket purchasing and more information about the play and the Leeds Arts Council, please visit leedsartscouncil.org.

the city to present a Key to the City to Pastor Mike McClure Jr.

“He writes songs that are extremely big because he’s always encouraging people to be winning,” Stewart said. “Therefore, I would like to bring, better known as PMJ, to the front. I want to give him the key to the city. If you all are asking the question why I am giving him the key to the city, well, in the last three years he has won 17 Stellar Awards.”

“In that building across the street and the city of Irondale, everything, and I mean this from the depths of my heart, that the world sees me doing was nurtured right here in Irondale, Alabama,” McClure said.

McClure moved to Irondale as a child when his father, Pastor Mike McClure Sr., began pastoring Revelation Church Ministries located at 1925 2nd Avenue South near City Hall. McClure Sr. still serves as pastor of the church.

“My son, Miles, asked me, he said ‘Dad, you’re getting the keys to the city?’ I said, ‘Yes.’ He said, ‘What does it open,’” McClure said. “I said, it doesn’t mean I have a key to open a door. It just means that a city has opened its heart to me and I thank God for each and every one of you.”

McClure Jr. will headline the upcoming music festival in Irondale on Sept. 23. As he was leaving, he announced he will be performing at this year’s Dove Awards. The GMA Dove Awards, an annual ceremony honoring Christian performers, will be held Oct. 17 and will be broadcast on TBN on Oct. 20. Stewart also awarded three proclamations during his time at the podium. With these proclamations, the city

officially recognized National Attendance Awareness Month, stressing the importance of school attendance; National Gear Up Week, stressing the need to equip underserved students with the tools to succeed; and Gynecological Cancer Awareness Month, stressing the need to fund research for all types of gynecological cancer.

In other business, the Council moved two items off its consent agenda to be voted

on in the regular agenda. Both items, a resolution to amend the 2022-2023 fiscal year budget and a resolution to extend the 2022-2023 fiscal year to March 31, 2024, passed but were opposed by Councilmember Cindy Cuellar.

The Council approved the purchase of 2074 Ruffner Road for $300,000 to be used by public works, and the purchase of 1849 Crestwood Boulevard for the amount of $415,000 to be used by public safety.

The Council also approved an ordinance eliminating police jurisdiction in areas where service is provided outside the limits of the city of Irondale. The services will end Jan. 1, 2024. The Council moved the date of the next meeting of the Irondale City Council. It will now be held on Wednesday, Oct. 4, at 6 p.m., at Irondale City Hall.

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Cast of The Addams Family prepare for their upcoming shows (Photo courtesy of Brandi McClaran)

Pastor Mike McClure Jr, also known as PMJ, poses with Mayor James D. Stewart Jr. who presented McClure with a Key to the City. (Credit: Terry Schrimscher)

Pinson

From front page renewing the contract with the current vendor, Waste Management, though it was mentioned by Operations Director Eric Winfrey that the rates have become higher, now at $85 per month.

Though the rate in Pinson is high, Winfrey said that trash pickup rates in the neighboring communities have also gone up.

“So, I’m afraid if we go out for RFPs, we’re probably not going to get anything better,” he said. “Most likely we’ll get stuff that’s even worse.”

Mayor Pro Tem Robbie Roberts mentioned that the county pickup service has also gone up progressively higher, $38 per month at one point but later jumping up to $74.95. The current contract expires in April of 2024.

Center Point

ber, Thursday night, Sept. 21. One of the items on the agenda was a zoning change request that has appeared before the Council several times over the last few months.

The zoning request was postponed from the July 6 meeting and denied in the August 3 meeting of the Council after Councilmember Tiffany Moore expressed concerns about the request. Project Success Ministries, a local nonprofit serving a variety of needs, asked to change the zoning of the property at 100 20th Avenue NW from C-1 to Institutional 2 in order to turn the property into a shelter for homeless seniors who have been released from local hospitals needing additional recovery time.

Project Success board member Bridget Taylor spoke to the Council at the Sept. 7 meeting and agreed to present more specific plans to city leaders. The proposal was accepted and cleared during the

Sept. 21 meeting.

“We’re just glad to get in and start helping people,” said Morris Jolly speaking to The Trussville Tribune.

Jolly serves as vice chair of the Project Success board of directors. “We’re all on one accord with the city. The city came through for its citizens like we were comfortable that they would.”

“We’re going to be feeding breakfast for the homeless and for families,” said Taylor.

“The elderly may not have food but volunteers for the elderly in Center Point will deliver hot breakfast every morning, Monday through Friday, and we will have sack lunches. They can come by and get a little lunch.”

In other business, the Council held a public hearing on the demolition of several units at Woodside Condominiums. No one spoke during the hearing and the Council approved a resolution ordering the removal of the buildings later in the meeting.

The condominiums have

been in the news several times in recent years after fires in 2019 and 2020. The city increased police patrols in the area in recent years due to an increase in crime at the complex. The condominiums have been the site of several crimes including the kidnapping and murder case of Kamille “Cupcake” McKinney in 2019.

The Council also approved an agreement with the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department to provide four deputies to the city at the cost of $35,749.98 per month. The enhanced coverage agreement lowers the number of deputies from six to four. Mayor Bobby Scott said the city plans to increase its own public safety department to include hiring officers and adding vehicles.

The Center Point City Council meets on the first and third Thursdays of the month at City Hall located at 2209 Center Point Parkway. The next meeting will be held Thursday, Oct. 12, at 6:30 p.m.

He echoed similar fears that Waste Management may increase their rates as well. No action was taken on trash pickup during the meeting.

It was later announced that the city has two board openings, one being the Zoning Board of Adjustments and the other being the Pinson Public Library. Applying for these openings may be done by contacting Roberts or Mayor Joe Cochran.

Roberts reminded the public that “Frenemy For Life,” a movie filmed in Pinson, would premiere at the Rock School Center on Saturday, Sept. 23. Proceeds from ticket sales will go to supporting the Pinson Valley Arts Council.

Councilwoman Clinteshia Irvin reported briefly on the recent National Night Out event and thanked those involved, including the Center Point, Palmerdale, and Glennwood fire districts, the Clay Police Department and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office.

Councilwoman Glenda Kirkland reminded those in attendance that the Butter-

bean Festival is coming up on Oct. 6 and 7. She said that 20,000 to 30,000 people are estimated to be in attendance.

Winfrey announced that a new website for the Parks and Recreation Department will go live on Friday, Sept. 29. Winfrey explained the site and length, which features ways to rent facilities online and apply for licenses, among others.

The next regular meeting is scheduled for Monday, Oct. 2, starting with the pre-council meeting at 6:15 p.m. The change is due to the Butterbean Festival, as well as the Hispanic Heritage Festival at

Pinson Valley High School at 6 p.m.

In other business, the council:

• Approved purchasing a new time clock system for $2,000, and

• Set a work session regarding the budget for Friday, Sept. 29 at 2 p.m. Pinson City Council meets on the first and third Thursdays of every month at City Hall on 4410 Main Street. Live-streamed meetings can be seen on the city’s Facebook page. Nathan Prewett can be reached at nthomasp6@ gmail.com.

Mayor Pro Tem Robbie Roberts on Sept. 21, 2023

The site of a potential new shelter to be operated in Center Point by Project Success Ministries.

Moody

From front page

Catering

From front page the Moody Planning Commission on Sept. 12 before it came to the council, which was approved unanimously. While compiling the plan, the commission surveyed citizens, took contributions for an online map and held meetings to receive.

The plan seeks to keep Moody’s “rural, small town identity” but includes growing commerce and industry with light manufacturing, tech-flex spaces, warehousing, distribution, research and processing, among others.

The plan also includes a “gateway node” at the intersection of Park Avenue and Kelly Creek Road, giving it the title of the gateway to Moody from I-20.

“Redesigning this intersection and enhancing the area will encourage future investment and development, focusing on retail and service uses,” said a description in the plan.

Another goal is to establish a town center at the intersection of US 411 and Park Avenue, which is also known as “the Crossroads.” Setting up a town center would serve as a way to identify the city to both visitors and residents, with modifications to the intersection being designed by the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT).

Additionally, the council voted to make allocations to educational and commercial growth. The resolution comes after the council voted to pass

its budget at the previous meeting. City Attorney James Hill explained that the allocations are given to the board of education and the chamber of commerce respectively.

“In that budget, we contemplate making certain allocations to certain entities that we recognize as having a public purpose,” Hill said. “Two of those in particular are education for obvious reasons. Of course, the law allows us to give money to schools because the law contemplates those having a public purpose but in that resolution, we speak to the fact that we recognize that giving money to our schools serves a public service towards the education of children in the city of Moody.

“Second of all we believe that having a vital commercial development arm is serving a public service to the city of Moody, so likewise we reallocate money towards our chamber of commerce.”

Hill said that over the years, the city has helped the local schools with various sports-related upgrades as an example of the regular allocations made to the board.

“We try to work hand in hand with the board of education regarding the needs of the city of Moody,” he said.

“For example, last year if memory serves, there was a request updating some of the athletic facilities in different ways, maybe some of the locker rooms. I think we did things for the band department, a whole variety of assistance over the years to the board of education.”

In other business, the council:

• Approved a request from Police Chief Reece Smith to repair the transmission of a department vehicle for $5,500, Approved a request from Library Director Sara Roberts to advertise for and hire a part-time library assistant, and

• Appointed Mike Martin to the Moody Planning Commission.

Meetings are held on the second and fourth Monday of every month at 6 p.m. at Moody City Hall on 670 Park Ave. Nathan Prewett can be reached at nthomasp6@gmail. com.

tie McCluskey, the dream of her heart was to serve God and others through preparing and catering food for special occasions. For many years, McCluskey filled this desire of her heart by hosting parties and celebrations for friends and family, but this year, she decided it was time to make the big dream a reality.

In June 2023, McCluskey founded a locally-based catering business, 4 Him Catering.

“I’ve been wanting to do this for years, but I just didn’t think I’d have time to do it,” she said. “I’ve always loved doing food preparation and displaying it for family and friends, but I also felt like I had to have just a normal job.”

In January, McCluskey started researching what it would take to start a catering business, including reaching out to the owners of existing businesses similar to what she had in mind. By June, she had all her permits and had met all the requirements, found a commercial kitchen to rent for food preparation, and launched 4 Him Catering.

4 Him Catering offers a wide variety of appetizers and finger foods, as well as charcuterie boards and grazing tables. Items on their menu include both cold and warm dips, fruit, vegetable and cheese trays, and even a taco bar, among other things.

“I have packages, but everything’s customizable,” McCluskey said. “I may add more things as I get going with my business.”

McCluskey said 4 Him Catering is prepared to serve all types of events, from weddings and showers to birthday and graduation parties, church, business and organization events, and more.

“I want to make people’s events special,” she said. “I’m really passionate about what I do, and I do it for Je-

sus; I wanted to bring faith into the name because that’s who I do it for.”

A fan-favorite, McCluskey said, is her sausage balls.

“People love sausage balls. When I made them for the bridal show, I got so many compliments and people asking me what my secret was,” she said. “I’m not telling, but I enjoy making them and I really like them myself.”

To help get the word out about 4 Him Catering, McCluskey has had booths at local events including the Pink Bride Wedding Show at the Trussville Civic Center in August and Trussville’s Dog

Daze festival in September.

4 Him Catering can also be found on Facebook and Instagram, as well as their website, 4himcatering.com

“I really do more with Facebook,” McCluskey said. “That’s where I post most of my pictures and every once in a while, I have a little giveaway – like when I reached 100 followers, I did a giveaway of a fruit tray. I plan on doing that some more.”

To find out more about 4 Him Catering and how they can help with your next event, call Katie McCluskey at (256) 338-7728 or message 4 Him Catering through Facebook.

Mayor Joe Lee on Sept. 25, 2023

4 Him Catering booth at the Pink Bride Wedding Show

Smith, Executive Director of the St. Clair County Economic Development Council. Smith gave the Council an update on the EDC’s fiveyear strategic plan.

Smith has been speaking to city leaders throughout the county in recent weeks to discuss the accomplishments of the EDC and its plans for future growth. He said the fiveyear strategy includes working with the education sector to focus on workforce development, which he says has suffered since the pandemic.

“It’s impossible to recruit a new company into an area who’s going to need to find 200 employees if we have 500 jobs unfilled right now in that sector,” Smith said. He also discussed how the EDC has grown since its inception to have a major focus on tourism dollars.

Smith added the EDC is focused on infrastructure and public safety grants and hopes to house a grant writer to serve St. Clair municipalities to assist with funding for critical development opportunities.

Smith commented on Argo’s proposal to move to a four-day work week. “If you do it, there’s no coming back because the employees love it,” he said. “The citizens welcome it because they are able to get to City Hall and do business before and after work. Lots of times, people aren’t coming in on Fridays anyway.”

“The purpose for the fourday work week is to improve resident convenience and make it a more accommodating work environment for employees,” said Mayor Betty Bradley speaking to the Trussville Tribune. “We view the transition to a four-day workweek as a creative method to enhance convenience and accessibility for our residents. This shift also presents a budget-neutral strategy to

maintain competitiveness, enhance recruitment, and bolster retention. In addition, there are extra advantages like potential savings in utility and fuel expenses.”

City Hall will transition to the new schedule at the end of October. The new hours will be Monday through Thursday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

“This will not impact emergency on-call services like police or fire. Those departments will still operate 24 hours a day,” Bradley said.

The Council unanimously approved the city budget for fiscal year 2023-2024. There was no discussion on the budget during the regular meeting, but the Council held budget work session on Sept. 12, Sept. 18, and Sept. 19, to work through the details ahead of the meeting.

The new budget includes funding for increases in municipal insurance rates and funds to buy new radios for the police and fire departments. Funding is also included to provide step raises for city employees.

The Council set a date for a public hearing on an ordinance to adopt State of Alabama building codes. The ordinance will establish proposed codes, inspections and enforcement procedures. The hearing will be held during the regular meeting of the Council on Oct. 23.

In other business, the Council approved a date for the Argo Christmas Parade. The parade will be held Dec. 9, at 10 a.m., with an alternative date of Dec. 16 in case of rain. Corky Massey will manage the parade for the city.

The next regular meeting of the Argo council is scheduled for Oct. 9 with a work session at 5 p.m. An agenda for each meeting is posted in local businesses including Hill Top Farms, Argo Hardware, Liberty Automotive, Shell, Southland BBQ, Fox’s Pizza and Buckeye Grocery. Agendas are also posted on the city’s Facebook page.

well as an audit for the 20212022 fiscal year, was discussed in the council workshop on Thursday, Sept. 21.

“All of the departments have been working on (the budget) for months and months,” Councilor Alan Taylor said. “We appreciate all the work done on that with the mayor, getting that where it needs to be. I think we’ve got a good budget for 2024 as our city continues to grow.”

During the workshop on Sept. 21, Mayor Buddy Choat said that the total operating revenues projected for the 2024 fiscal year are $51,836,400, with total operating expenses at $42,583,000.

Prior to adopting the budget, the council approved Resolution 2023-66, accepting the 2021-2022 audit.

“I’m real proud of the audit that we just concluded,” Choat said. “The news we got last week was what we needed to hear. It appears that all our in-house business is in order and (we) didn’t see any deficiencies there.

“A lot of things going on in the city right now,” he added later. “None bigger than just getting this budget approved and getting a good audit.”

The council also approved an ordinance to exercise the option for the city to leave the Jefferson County Personnel Board.

Councilor Ben Short explained the item as Ordinance 2023-019ADM, “an ordinance pursuant to Act 2023460, notifying the Personnel Board of Jefferson County, Alabama, of the intent of the city of Trussville, Alabama, to separate from the Personnel Board’s jurisdiction and establish a city Civil Service System.”

Another resolution the council approved Tuesday night was Resolution 202370, authorizing national opioid settlement funds to go to

therefore the mayor and city council do hereby proclaim the Fourth Annual Witches Ride, slated for Saturday, Oct. 21, 2023, as a citywide public event.”

The second proclamation declared the Friends of Pinchgut Creek Revival Festival a citywide event.

local nonprofit

Huskies Together Inc.

“Across the United States of America, in the state of Alabama, and in the city of Trussville, the opioid epidemic is an ongoing battle that is one of the greatest public health battles the U.S. has experienced,” Councilor Short read from the resolution. “…As part of a variety of national opioid litigation, where states, counties and municipalities across the country have sued opioid manufacturers, prescribers and distributers, several have been settled, resulting in the city receiving certain settlement amounts, both lump sums and periodic payments. … Having considered the most effective way to use these funds, the city has created Huskies Together Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation whose purpose is to make sure the opioid funds are used to combat and reduce drug use within the Trussville City Schools and throughout the city.”

Mayor Choat recognized and thanked the first graduating class of Leadership Trussville for the creation of Huskies Together Inc.

“This is near and dear to my heart,” Council President Lisa Bright said. “It was my team on Leadership Trussville (that selected this as their project). We worked together and we decided this was something that was needed in our high school and in all of our schools to a certain level. We are patterning it after All In Mountain Brook and Help the Hills in Vestavia Hills. It will just be an active group that gives students an opportunity

to be in support groups, and resources for parents … Just grateful to be able to use these funds in a positive way that will help bring the community and the schools together.”

The council approved two proclamations declaring citywide public events. The first declared the Fourth Annual Trussville Witches Ride a citywide event.

“This group of ladies get together and they pick someone who’s deserving in the community and then it’s a really fun day for everyone to ride through Trussville and raise money for a good cause,” Councilor Jaime Anderson said.

Anderson then read from the proclamation, “Whereas a number of good-hearted witches are raising money to provide financial relief and to honor resident Jamie Lee Jones, who’s fighting Prader-Willi Syndrome, and then they wish to ride their brooms or other modes of transportation (which are bikes) from Cahaba Elementary School along North Mall and then the north end of South Chalkville Road, and then to Beech Street ending at the Ferus pavilion;

“Friends of Pinchgut Creek are bringing the community together to celebrate local watershed improvements,” Anderson read. “Therefore, the mayor and city council hereby proclaim the gathering hosting by the Friends of Pinchgut Creek at the Mall pavilion on Sunday, Oct. 15, 2023, as a citywide public event.”

“The Friends of Pinchgut Creek, they’re very active,” Anderson added. “They’ve done a lot to actually clean up the waterway out here. Pinchgut, of course, runs behind Ferus and the Entertainment District, but leads directly into the Cahaba.”

In other business, the council approved:

• Unpaid COVID Leave Policy for city employees

• A traffic signal permit for US Highway 11 and Bethune Parkway

A resolution extending the master agreement with Ingenuity

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

L-R: Councilor Jaime Anderson, Council President Lisa Bright, Councilor Alan Taylor, Councilor Ben Short. (Credit: Crystal McGough)

City of Center Point to host National Night Out in October

From The Tribune staff reports CENTER POINT — The City of Center Point is hosting a National Night Out with Center Point first responders in early October.

Community members are invited to join local first responders at the Center Point Courthouse Annex located at 2651 Center Point Parkway from 5:30- 7:30 p.m. on October 3. Residents will be greet-

ed with music to accompany a fun day with local first responders where attendees can participate in face painting, games, a bike raffle and more. The Center Point Police De-

Trussville to host National Night Out next month

By Chase Holmes News

Reporter

partment and Center Point Fire Department will have emergency vehicles available for residents to examine.

Free hot dogs and cold drinks will be served.

Trussville Area Chamber of Commerce announces theme for 2023 Trussville Christmas Parade

From The Tribune staff reports

TRUSSVILLE — The Trussville Area Chamber of Commerce has announced the theme for the 2023 Trussville Christmas Parade.

“The Sights and Sounds of Christmas” is scheduled to make its customary route down Parkway Drive to Main Street, through downtown Trussville, to Chalkville Road then north to Oak Street at 3 p.m. on Dec. 9.

“Having a theme has pro-

vided a great starting point for some winning entries, and everybody seems to enjoy it,” said Melissa Walker, Interim director/Event Manager for the Trussville Area Chamber of Commerce.

Float Competition prizes will be awarded for: Best Interpretation of Theme

• Most Original

• Most innovative

• Best Overall

• Several Honorable Mentions A prize will also be

awarded to the Best Walking Group.

Individuals and groups wishing to participate can register online at www.trussvillechamber.com. The fee per parade entry is $30.

For more information on the Trussville Christmas Parade, call the chamber office at (205) 655-7535 or email Melissa.walker@trussvillechamber.com or heather. weems@trussvillechamber. com Information is also available on the chamber’s Facebook page.

TRUSSVILLE — The Trussville Police Department (TPD) will be hosting a National Night Out early next month. The event will be held at the Trussville Civic Center from 6 p.m.- 9 p.m. on October 3.

Community members are invited to come out and meet Trussville’s first responders in an effort to create a more connected community. The Trussville Fire Department (TFD) and the TPD will be on hand. Residents will be able to get an up close and personal look at the department’s police vehicles.

Activities and games will

be available for all ages. Food and refreshments will be on hand for community members. In a statement on the TPD Facebook page, the department said the event is about strengthening the bond between law enforcement and the community. “Lets stand together against crime and build a safer, more connected Trussville!”

Mayor Buddy Choat to hold annual State of the City address at Trussville Chamber luncheon

From The Tribune staff reports

TRUSSVILLE — Mayor Buddy Choat will give his annual State of the City address at the Trussville Area Chamber of Commerce luncheon on October 19.

The meeting will take place in the Exhibition Hall at the Trussville Civic Center.

“Hosting the mayor for this event is a great opportunity for the chamber,” said Melissa Walker, Trussville Area Chamber of Commerce Interim Director. “These are exciting times for our city, and

this is a great chance to get the latest information straight from city hall.”

The address coincides with the Chamber’s monthly luncheon. The luncheon will begin at 11:30 a.m and the Mayor’s address will begin at around 12:15.

For anyone who wishes to only hear the mayor speak,

non-table seating will be provided along the east wall of the meeting room.

Lunch will be provided by Trussville Gas & Water. There will be no charge to attend, but reservations are required and are limited.

Attendees can reserve their spot online at www.trussvillechamber.com or by email to heather.weems@trussvillechamber.com or melissa. walker@trussvillechamber. com. Reservation by phone is also available at (205) 6557535.

The reservation deadline is Tuesday, October 17, at noon.

7 arrested for shoplifting in Trussville

From The Tribune staff reports

TRUSSVILLE — Seven people were arrested for shoplifting between Sept. 6 and Sept. 25 according to the

Trussville Police Department.

Those charged are Savanna Crocker of Trussville, Denis Garcia of Trussville, Robin Lugo of Pinson, Kimberly Mangina of Pinson, Loletha Nettle of Birmingham, Chris-

topher Nolen of Lincoln, and Tiffany Yelverton of Center Point.

All arrest and arrest photos are public information. All subjects are innocent until proven guilty.

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By Crystal McGough Editor

The month of September offers a good reminder to those over 50 that it may be a good time to visit your general practitioner and get your heart checked. While February is more commonly known for being National Heart Month, September is officially the month for promoting Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) Awareness.

Atrial Fibrillation is an abnormal heart rhythm that comes from the top chambers of the heart. According to Dr. John Parks, and interventional cardiology specialist with Ascension St. Vincent’s, AFib is probably the most common abnormal heart rhythm in the U.S. in adults.

“AFib is an increasing problem in the U.S.,” Parks said. “There are about three million people in the United States that have AFib.”

Parks described AFib as an irregular heart rhythm where the heart beats fast and skips around a lot.

“People might notice this if they have symptoms of palpitation such as racing or skipping in their chest, but it tends to be a very fast heart rate (around 120),” he said. “It tends to be something that happens in older folks, particularly in folks above the age of 65.”

While AFib in young people is considered rare, it can occasionally be diagnosed in younger people who have congenital heart disease due to being born with a heart defect.

In general, however, Dr. Parks said he would recommend people over age 50 have an EKG at least once every three to five years with their primary care doctor, just to look for potential issues.

Untreated AFib can result in complications such as blood clots or even strokes.

“That’s why we’re trying to bring awareness, so we can decrease risks for folks,” Parks said.

“Generally, people have symptoms with AFib – they end up coming to the emergency room because it tends to make them have symptoms of shortness of breath or chest pain. But occasionally, people will come in with AFib that don’t realize (they have it) – so not everyone has symptoms with AFib – and they’ll come in presenting with a blood clot or a stroke, and that comes with that rhythm problem.”

Blood clots happen with AFib when the heart beats so fast and irregularly that blood flow gets stagnant inside a small area inside of the heart, Parks said. A blood clot then forms in the heart and can move outside of the heart.

“If it goes to the brain, it typically causes a stroke and, unfortunately, they tend to be large strokes,” Parks said.

AFib is usually diagnosed by an EKG or heart-rhythm tracing, either in the doctor’s office or in the emergency room.

“That’s the easiest way to diagnose it for sure,” Parks said. “There are some newer phone apps (such as the Kardia app) and things like Apple watches that can sometimes pick up abnormal heart

rhythms that can be clues that something is going on.”

If this happens, he says people should be checked out by their primary care doctor or a cardiologist. While AFib can cause other health problems like blood clots and strokes, it can also be caused by pre-existing health conditions.

“People that have had heart problems in the past like coronary artery disease or high blood pressure, those are things that can cause people to have AFib,” Parks said. “Sleep apnea and other stressors can cause AFib, as well.”

AFib is typically treated with blood thinners and medications that help keep the heart rate down, but unfortunately, blood thinners aren’t an option for everyone.

“As I mentioned, AFib comes with a risk of blood clots that can cause a stroke, but we have a number of patients, for various reasons, that can’t take blood thinners to prevent those blood clots,” Parks said. “So, an alternative has been for us to do this minimally invasive procedure (called Watchman) that’s done through the leg vein where we place an implant into the upper left chamber of the heart where blood clots tend to form – in an area of the chamber called the appendage – and we seal off this area with a small, flexible implant that prevents blood clots with AFib from forming. So, we kind of stop the blood clots before they ever have a chance to form, and we can prevent strokes with an implant rather than having to take a blood thinner if they have a high risk of bleeding issues.”

Another option for people who have problems with medication is an AFib ablation, a minimally invasive procedure that’s done through the leg vein where catheters are placed into the heart and the

electrical system is mapped to identify where the AFib is coming from. Physicians then use small amounts of electrical energy to cause those areas to get rid of the excitable heart cells that are causing the

AFib. More rarely, a patient may need to be treated with a pacemaker.

Dr. Parks said there are preventative measures people can take to prevent AFib, such as keeping their blood

pressure under control and maintaining a healthy weight, including losing weight if necessary.

“There’s also some evidence that eating a Mediterranean diet with plenty of fresh fruits and veggies and healthy fats can reduce the risk of heart rhythm problems,” Parks said. He also recommended that people over the age of 50 be on the lookout for health fairs, which are occasionally held at local churches or community gathering places, where health professionals offer screening physicals and free routine EKGs.

“We don’t have anything scheduled right now, but people can be on the lookout for those screening events,” he said. “It’s always good for people to have a close relationship with their primary care doctor, as well.”

Dr. John Parks, MD

Dr. John Parks (holding the sign) and Dr. Corey Coleman (in green), along their team, celebrate scheduling Ascension St. Vincent’s East's 300th Watchman Procedure in December 2022. (Photo courtesy of Shea Allen)

Your closest ER is coming soon

Emergency care teams will soon be closer to home

When accidents and illnesses happen, time is critical. And now, Ascension St. Vincent’s is opening a new freestanding emergency room - in Trussville - to bring ER care closer to you. Our ER is backed by doctors and care teams who listen to quickly understand your needs and then deliver the care that’s right for you. And should you need additional care, we will connect the dots for lab services, imaging, specialty care and to Ascension Rx or your preferred pharmacy.

Coming in January

Ascension St. Vincent’s East Freestanding Emergency Department 6670 Green Drive

Trussville, AL 35235

Find your nearest Ascension St. Vincent’s ER at ascension.org

If you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency, go directly to the ER or dial 911.

Tree Talk: It’s not murder – but that doesn’t make it right

By Katie Wiswall, ISA TRAQ & Certified Arborist, Urban & Community Forestry Partnership Coordinator, Alabama Forestry

Commission

Crape murder is not a thing. Murder results in death, but even the most severe pruning rarely kills a crape myrtle. If cutting the heads off crape myrtles killed them, people would quit doing it. So – it’s not murder. But you still shouldn’t do it!

What is often referred to as crape murder is topping. Any sort of cutting that removes the ends of all the branches on your crape myrtle is topping.

It doesn’t matter if you “artistically” stagger the cuts near the top of the stems or whack your poor tree back to some ugly, knobby knuckles a few feet off the ground; it is all topping and it is bad for your crape myrtle.

Why do people do it? Either they have been misinformed about why they should, or they forgot their mamma’s warning not to jump off that bridge just because their friends are!

Perhaps I can help combat misinformation.

1. You are not “re-invigorating” your tree by removing the ends of all the limbs. You

are retarding it and changing its hormone balance. The tips of branches hold and produce plant growth hormones that control the rate and location of growth in the tree. When you remove the branch tips, previously-suppressed buds hidden along the trunks “wake up” and start growing. There are lots of these buds, so you get lots of sprouts that grow quickly, are weakly attached to the stem of the tree, and consume stored resources to replace the leaves needed to keep the tree alive. This whole process is sort of like quitting your job as a baker and then spending your savings to buy bread.

2. You are not increasing flowering. Removing all the ends of your crape myrtle’s branches DELAYS flowering by 4-8 weeks, effectively shortening the time you get to enjoy those beautiful blooms. While the flowers that finally appear may be in larger clusters, they are being produced on spindly, weakly-attached sprouts that often cannot support them.

3. You do open your crape myrtle up to long-term damage from water, insects, and diseases. Cutting the limbs off at a slant may help slow water damage but it does nothing to help the tree seal the wound

and prevent fungal or insect infestations. With any tree, the only safe place to cut off part of its living tissue is at a junction, either with another branch or with the trunk. In these junctions there are specialized cells that can produce material to seal the area and protect the interior of the tree from pests and rot.

4. You do promote wind damage and powdery mildew in those weakly attached and very crowded sprouts.

Is there ever a reason to prune your crape myrtle and is there a correct way to do it?

Of course! Prune your crape like you would any other tree – with a specific goal in mind and by using proper techniques.

And if you are topping that crape myrtle because it is growing into your house, it is time to move or remove it.

Here are some tips from the Alabama Cooperative Extension System blog (https://

www.aces.edu/blog/topics/ landscaping/care-and-maintenance-smart-yards-recipeseries/):

• Thinning cuts. Pruning a branch back to its original growth point reduces the amount of regrowth after pruning.

The May Rule. If the plant blooms after May 1, prune during the dormant season, before new spring growth, because the flowers are produced on the current year’s growth. These include crape myrtles and gardenias.

Remove dead, diseased, or injured branches at any time.

• Dip pruning shears and saws in disinfectant to prevent spreading diseases among plants. Your solution should be onepart alcohol to nine parts

water. Always oil pruners after using a disinfectant.

• Remove branches that cross each other, touch each other, or look out of place.

• Remove shrubs when they are too large for their location. Pruning for size is a constant battle.

• Avoid pruning in times of stress. Pruning is itself stressful on a plant. Never prune in periods of drought or extreme heat.

• Call professionals to prune trees more than 15 feet high.

For more details, see Extension publication

“Woody Landscape Plants: Pruning” (ANR-0258) on the Alabama Extension website. (https://www. aces.edu/blog/topics/ landscaping/woody-landscape-plants-pruning/)

Topping Pruning

L ifesty L e

My Life As A Hobby: There’s No Place Like Dome

By Joe Hobby

I walked thru the empty parking lot until I got to the glass doors, and then I entered the lobby. It had been a long time since I was here, and the minute I walked inside I wanted to click the heels of my sneakers together and say, “There’s no place like home.” That’s because the Stardome in Birmingham is my comedy home.

Since people in Alabama like to take pride in every good thing we have, let me clue ya’ll in on something else you can brag about: The Comedy Club at the Stardome is hands down one of the best comedy venues in the country.

It has a near legendary status with comedians. Once I was in a club in New York City, and when one of the comics discovered that the Stardome was my home, he begged for help to him get booked here.

I still laugh when I think of someone from the Big Apple wanting desperately to perform in Birmingham.

Of course, the Stardome is the third installment of a comedy club here. In 1992, a fire during a huge winter storm burned the second location to the ground. All of comedian Carrot Top’s props were lost in the blaze, so at least some good came out of it (sarcasm noted). The blaze forced him to cancel his upcoming

appearance on the Tonight Show, and Leno made some snarky remarks about the fire on his show.

A number of comedians called him to set him straight, including me. I told Jay that Bruce Ayers runs a top notch operation and treats the comics well. Jay, still a road comic at heart, said, “Give me his phone number. I’ve got a short meeting, then I’ll give him a call. When he gets ready to re-open, let me know and I’ll help him out.”

I hung up the phone and frantically tried to call Bruce, yelling in his voicemail. “Hey, be sure to pick up your phone! Leno’s gonna call you in about thirty minutes!”

Bruce got my message too late, but he did get a voicemail from Jay. Once the club was ready, Leno offered to record a commercial for him – from the set of the Tonight Show!

Birmingham had lost a fine comedy club. However, Bruce saw an opportunity. His eyes became fixed on a an old dinner theatre in a suburb of Birmingham. I remember when he first took me there. It was dark, dusty, and had the ugliest pair of velvet curtains flanking the stage I’ve ever seen. I was immediately struck by it’s size. The old club held just over 300 people. This venue could seat over 500, Vegas-style with multiple levels. It even had skyboxes. The difference in this facility and most comedy clubs is that this building was designed and created from the ground up for performing. Everything – from the green room, to the stage, to the ticket booths, to the kitchen, has been made to give the audience a great experience. With just a few tweaks, this would make Birmingham a shining star on the national comedy scene.

To my delight, Bruce pulled the trigger, and soon the transformation began. I worked close by, so I made frequent trips to the club to check on the progress. It was exciting to know that soon I would have a shiny new playground.

I’ve been on the stage of the Stardome on countless occasions, but I will always remember the first time I stepped in front of a audience there. It seemed like a wall of people rose up in front of me. I’ve been an opener, a feature act, and a headliner. I’ve done

hundreds of guest sets, which are when a comic drops in to do a few minutes during the regular show. In addition, I’ve worked corporate gigs at the Stardome, and several New Year’s Eves, where I was intoxicated by the high energy of doing several shows at the same time.

And now, I was back at my home club, making ticket arrangements for my friends to see me and six other comedians perform sets that will be filmed and used on Amazon Prime. One of my dearest comedy friends, Truett Beasley, aka, Killer Beaz, graciously offered me a spot on his new show, the Comedy Buzz.

After hugs and smiles for people I haven’t seen in a while, I did what I always do, walked in the main room of the Stardome. Workers were already setting up cameras and sound equipment for the show. I became as excited as a high school kid on Prom Night.

About 24 hours later, I nervously checked my notes for one last time as Beaz began introducing me to the audience. Walking on stage, I grabbed the microphone, saw that familiar wall of people rising before me, and did my first joke. Fifteen minutes and about forty gags later, I left the stage to raucous applause. Dorothy was right – there really is no place like home.

Joe Hobby, Tribune Columnist

c a L enda R

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

(All ages, recommended ages 5 & up)

Wednesday, September 27th, 1 to 3PM

Join us for a community gathering of homeschool students! Start of the school year with fresh photos of your homeschool kiddos!

Come to the library dressed in your best & we will provide two backdrop options. Photos will be emailed. No registration is required. This event is FREE.

lison on Friday, September 29th at 10 AM. Our theme is firefighters. We’ll read books, have fun, do a craft, & have a snack.

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

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

M. W. Hosey American Legion Post 205 will be at Trussville City Fest 16

September 2023. Come join us and visit with fellow Veterans and share your experiences.

Preschoolers at Play

Wednesday, September 27: 10:00am - 11:00am Trussville Public LibraryLBK Auditorium

Children’s Storytime

Thursday, September 28: 9:30am - 10:00am, 10:30am - 11:00am Trussville Public Library

Storytime is designed for pre-K children, but all ages are welcome.

Let’s Move! Sports Practice

Fri Sep 29th

4:00pm - 5:00pm

Pinson Public Library, 4509 Pinson Blvd, Pinson, AL

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Join us in the auditorium for a special playtime program for preschool-aged children. A guided story time will begin at 10:00, followed by free play at several stations around the room with various toys.

Parents are asked to stay with their children and travel with them as they play with the different selections of toys.

Ages 2-5 years old. Held on 2nd & 4th Wednesday of each month at 10:00am. No

Registration Needed.

Homeschool Hangout:

School Photos!

Wed Sep 27th 1:00pm - 3:00pm Pinson Public Library, 4509 Pinson Blvd, Pinson, AL

Join Ms. Alicia for stories, songs, puppets, rhymes, bubble time, and lots of fun!

This thirty-minute program will be held in the library auditorium every Thursday at 9:30 a.m.

Children will be introduced to the pleasure of stories and caregivers will learn books, rhymes, and songs to use at home.

Yarn Manglers - Knit & crochet group

Thursday, September 28: 2:00pm - 4:00pm Trussville Public LibraryCahaba Room

(Teens)

Friday, September 29th at 4 PM

For our next Let’s Move!

Teen program we will run some drills, throw some ball, & get in some agility/endurance practice! This event is for teens (6-12th grade) only. All levels of ability & mobility are welcome.

Anime & Unwind

Fri Sep 29th

Lot 72A. Spaces 1, 2, 3, 4. Includes: Full Date Williamsburg Companionate Memorial 36” X 13” with Vase; Two (2) Opening and Closing; Two (2) Lined Concrete Vaults. As of 8/29/2023 valued at $30,800.00. Will consider offer of $28,800.00 (seller will pay $295.00 transfer fee).

Contact Paul J. Vishaway at (251) 644-4941.

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Knit & crochet meetup group (aka The Yarn Manglers). Bring any projects you are working on; join us for fellowship and creativity. This is a great way to check in, catch up, see what everyone is working on, and get help if you are stuck. Please join us - newcomers are welcome!

Join our Facebook group: YARN MANGLERS ANONYMOUS

Storytime for Growin’

Beans with Ms. Allison: Firefighters

Fri Sep 29th 10:00am - 11:00am Pinson Public Library, 4509 Pinson Blvd, Pinson, AL (All ages)

Join us for Storytime for Growin’ Beans with Ms. Al-

Legal Notice

6:00pm - 7:30pm Pinson Public Library, 4509 Pinson Blvd, Pinson, AL

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

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(Adults)

Friday, September 29th at 6 PM

A.G. Peltz Group, LLC hereby gives notice of completion of contract with the State of Alabama for construction of Project No. IMI059(419) Jefferson & St. Clair Counties. This notice will appear for four consecutive weeks beginning on September 20, 2023 and ending on October 11, 2023. All Claims should be filed at A.G. Peltz Group, LLC., P.O. Box 102065, Irondale, AL 35210 during this period.

A.G. Peltz Group, LLC

It’s our anime club for adults! Come to the library for Anime & Unwind on Friday, September 29th at 6 PM. Enjoy Asian snacks & hang out with fellow anime enthusiasts. 5360

obitua R y

Avert Williford, Jr

February 9, 1943 — august 14, 2023

Avert Blake Williford, Jr. passed away on August 14, 2023 following several years of heath complications from a stroke. Avert was born February 9, 1943 in Birmingham, Alabama and grew up there. He graduated from Banks High School, served in the Marine Corps Reserves, and attended UAB obtaining his Masters degree in Metallurgical Engineering.

Avert spent most of his career with Lockheed Martin Corp., an aerospace and defense contractor. While there he was on the team manufacturing the Space Shuttle for NASA. After retiring, he remained in Slidell, Louisiana and enjoyed time spent with several very special dogs.

Avert was predeceased by his parents, Blake and Grace Williford, brother, Mike Williford, and his sister, Becky Burnette. He is survived by his wife, Donna, daughters, Janette Webb and Susan Oates (Greg), sister, Kathy Guin, nephews and niece.

Avert was a loving son, brother, husband and father, and always had a twinkle in his eyes and fun sense of humor which we have left to cherish.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, September 29th at noon at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home, 1591 Gadsden Hwy. Birmingham, Alabama 35235. The family requests that in lieu of flowers please send memorials to your local chapter of the ASPCA or your favorite charity.

Emma Bailey

December 11, 1933 — september 17, 2023

Emma Bailey, 89, passed away on September 17, 2023, in Birmingham, AL.

Emma is survived by Jeff Bailey – son, Sharon Bailey – daughter-in-law, Mark Bailey – son, Tabitha Bailey – daughter-in-law, Courtney Bailey – granddaughter, Clay Bailey – grandson, and Ben Bailey – grandson.

Emma is preceded in death by Willie Bailey – spouse, Clayton Peoples – father, Annie Peoples – mother, Lorien Morrow -sister, Sue Peoples – sister.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, September 20, 2023 from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm with a chapel service to immediately to follow at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home in Trussville. Burial will follow in the adjoining cemetery.

Joe Thomas

OctOber 21, 1936 — september 15, 2023

Joe Cephas Thomas (86) of Birmingham, Alabama passed away peacefully Friday, September 15, 2023, to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Joe was born on October 21, 1936, to Grover Cleveland Thomas and Elsie Pass Thomas. He is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Elizabeth Ann Bancroft Thomas, his two devoted sons; Richard Scott Thomas (Meleigha) and Gary Charles Thomas (Amanda), brother Sidney Thomas (Sue) and his four grandchildren: Daniel Thomas, Madison Thomas, Chase Thomas, and Haley Thomas.

He was predeceased by his parents, his brother, Eugene, and his nephew, Dr. James Thomas.

He was a member of Ruhama Baptist Church for over 60 years. He was active in the youth program and made a public profession of faith as a teenager. As an adult, he was a faithful servant of the Lord serving as a Sunday School teacher, a lifetime deacon, a sound engineer, and a member of many committees. He was also active in Men and Women on Mission. He later joined Huffman Baptist Church and continued his faithful services where he enjoyed being a greeter in Sunday School and worship service. His goal was to show love and concern to each person who came through the door.

Joe graduated from Woodlawn High School and attended Auburn University. He carried his Christian work ethic into the workforce as he worked for South Central Bell and AT&T for over forty years. Joe also served in the Air National Guard and was activated in France in 1961.

A service in his memory will be at Jefferson Memorial Gardens Funeral Home in Trussville on Saturday, September 23, 2023.

The visitation is from 11:00 am – 12:00 pm with a service following from 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm. Rev. Larry Smith will officiate and Joe Bancroft will share family memories.

Pallbearers will be Chase Thomas, Daniel Thomas, Chris Blake, Chuck Russell, Richard McDonald, and David Zieverink. Honorary pallbearers will be Raymond McDonald, Euel McElroy, and Malcolm Pledger. Memorials to the Alabama Kidney Foundation will be appreciated. (265 Riverchase Parkway East, Suite 106, Hoover, Alabama 35244.)

The family appreciates all of the excellent health care that Joe received during his illness, especially from Dr. Rebecca Byrd, Dr. Harry Giles, Molly Humphries RN, and Joan MacWilliams, RN.

AskEddie

Grieving Alone: How to Help Someone Who’s Mourning in Isolation

When someone is grieving, it’s natural for them to seek solitude, but prolonged isolation can be harmful. To support a friend or loved one who has withdrawn, it’s essential to strike a balance between giving them space and offering emotional support. Simple acts like regular check-ins through texts and calls, being available to listen, and offering practical help can make a significant difference. While it’s crucial not to be overly intrusive, it’s equally important to ensure that the grieving individual doesn’t spiral into extreme isolation.

For more detailed guidance on how to support a grieving friend or family member who is isolating, scan the QR code to read the full article. Learn how to navigate this delicate balance and be the support system your loved one needs in their time of sorrow.

Janice Linley

205-322-0543

NOvember

15, 1948 — september 15, 2023

Janice Linley was known to many as Kay Morrison. Her other aliases included Janice Thomas, Kay Thomas, Mom, Momma, or Mother if we were upset. Lastly, she was known as Nan or Naaan by her grandchildren. Kay passed away Friday, September 15th at 2:40pm. She was proceeded in death by her sister Freida “the tough one” and her brother Danny “the wild one”. She is survived by her younger sister Ann “the smart one”. Kay was always known as “the pretty one” by her parents

Ed and Nell Thomas and because of those great genetics she gave birth to two beautiful children, Jason and Jennifer. Jason and his wife Angela gave her three wonderfully witty and equally beautiful grandchildren, Brennan, Braeden and Brittany. Jennifer bestowed upon her two charming, intelligent and lovely grandchildren, Rider and Kirra. Kay is leaving behind many nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, cousins, and friends that will all miss her greatly.

Kay had a few things she loved more than ever. She absolutely loved to cook, she would always have a meal waiting for you if you were hungry, didn’t matter the time of day. Second was shopping, maybe to her detriment. Thirdly, she was a devoted mother and loved to keep her kids safe. She was like a “big ole mother hen” who wanted to keep us safe under her wings, but we were “free birds” and “free birds” had to fly.

We will be having a life memorial in lieu of a funeral. It will be on September 26th, 2023 at 11:00am at Deerfoot Church of Christ on Old Springville Road in Pinson, Alabama.

I have never understood the words “I miss you” until you reach for your Mom and she is not there.

Dorothy Hudson Craft

July 4, 1931 — september 16, 2023

Dorothy Hudson Craft, age 92, of Birmingham, AL passed away on September 16, 2023. She was born on July 4, 1931 to John and Mamie Mummert. Dorothy was a graduate of Woodlawn High School. She later graduated from the University of North Alabama to receive a Bachelor’s degree in social services. She was a member of Third Presbyterian Church where she loved singing in the choir. She also served several years in the church card ministry. Dorothy had a deep love for animals. She had a beautiful voice and enjoyed singing. She especially enjoyed singing while working in her garden.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her infant daughter, Patricia; her sons, Robert Eugene Nichols, and John Kirby Nichols; her brother, Jack Mummert.

Dorothy is survived by her loving children, Mary Louise Green, Sandra Lynn Jenson, Thomas William Nichols; her five grandchildren, Rodney Earl Green, Robert Brandon Green, Aimee Green Pilkington (Rance), Ray Jenson, and Michael Jenson; her five great grandchildren, Kayla Mills, Briley Pilkington, Jack Pilkington, Hudson Pilkington, and Harper Pilkington.

The funeral service for Dorothy will be held on Thursday, September 21st at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home Chapel at 2:00 p.m. A visitation for family and friends will take place one hour prior to the service.

Joanne Moseley

march 8, 1948 — september 17, 2023

Joanne Moseley, 75, of Margaret, Alabama, was welcomed home by her Lord and Savior, on Sunday, September 17, 2023. Joanne was born on March 8, 1948, to parents Joseph Gettys and Mary Evelyn Morse.

Joanne was a loving wife, mother, and Ge’, as she was known by her grandchildren. She was a member of Macedonia Baptist Church where she used her musical talents to worship the Lord as the church pianist. She was a beautiful picture of Jesus to those who were blessed to know her.

She is preceded in death by her sister, Sharon Derryberry.

She is survived by her loving husband of 57 years, Eddy; her sons, Jason (Staci)

Moseley, Joe (Nickie) Moseley, grandchildren, Grace, Lindsie Jo, Mace, and Lara -

lee and sister, Lisa Jimmerson (Jackie) Services will be on Thursday, September 21, 2023 at 12 PM at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home. Visitation will be an hour prior to the services. The burial will take place at Jefferson Memorial Gardens East.

General Manager

Hewitt Scuttles Bucs 28-7

By Zack Steele

For the Tribune

HOOVER –Hewitt head coach Josh Floyd celebrated early with his coaching staff on the sideline Friday night.

The Huskies played and coached Friday night with a chip on their shoulder, and for good reason. Hoover has been the white whale for the Hewitt Trussville Huskies for a while now, and Floyd had played the part of Captain Ahab for long enough.

With dominant defense and persistent offense, Hewitt Trussville did something almost no one has done, they had the Hoover Met 75% empty by the time the third quarter was done.

Hewitt took the opening toss and quickly worked into Buccaneer territory, the dive stalled at the Hoover forty, and Hewitt elected to play field position rather than go on fourth down. Playing it safe paid off for Hewitt, because only a few plays later, Hoover would face a similar choice on 4th down and one from their own 29. The Bucs rolled the dice and the conversion failed and Hewitt was seemingly in business deep in Hoover territory.

The Hoover defense was up to the task, however, intercepting Floyd and returning it out to the Buccaneer’s 42 yard line. Hoover could not string together a dive, and the teams

would trade punts. On Hoover’s ensuing possession, they would drive 85 yards in 21 plays, aided by several encroachment penalties by the Hewitt defense. Facing 3rd and goal, the Huskies defense stiffened. On 4th and goal, they changed the game. The Husky stop at the goal line flipped the momen-

Springville whips Alexandria on homecoming night 49-21

By Johnny Sanders Sports Editor

tum that was completely on Hoover’s side. The Hewitt offense would proceed to drive 99 yards with several key third down conversions, including an astonishing penalty for sideline interference against the Bucs on the third play of the drive. Instead of punting from their own end

See HEWITT, Page 20

SPRINGVILLE – The Springville Tigers celebrated homecoming 2023 like you always want to celebrate homecoming. With a big win in front of a big crowd and seeing your senior leadership have a big game. On Friday night, Springville welcomed the Alexandria Valley Cubs, a region opponent, to Tiger Stadium and leaned on Noel Cox, Jake Conner and Mahlon Alverson, all seniors, to end the night with their second win of

the season. A 49-21 blowout.

The Tigers wasted no time scoring. Jake Conner got things started with a 43-yard touchdown run and a twopoint play to cap off the first drive of the game and put the Tigers up 8-0 right out of the gate. The Valley Cubs gave the ball back to Springville and this time Mahlon Alverson would hit a big 55-yard run to score the Tigers’ second touchdown of the first quarter to make it 15-0 Tigers with 4:53 to go in the period. Alexandria would put together a drive to close out

the first and begin the second quarter with a four-yard touchdown run to close the gap to 15-7. Noel Cox would have a 73-yard blast to answer the Alexandria score and put Springville up 21-7. On the next drive, Springville forced a fumble that was returned by Conner for 22 yards for the scoop and score and make it 28-7 Springville. After holding Alexandria scoreless once again, Springville would put together another scoring drive that was capped off by an Al-

See SPRINGVILLE, Page 20

Hewitt Trussville Huskies get the big win over Hoover on Friday night, 28-7. Photo by: HTHS Athletics

The 2023 Springville Tigers take the field. Photo by: Ron Burkett

Mounties pick up region win

By John Goolsby Prep Sports Editor

BIRMINGHAM – Shades Valley (2-2, 1-1) got back in the win column Friday night.

The Mounties beat Huffman (0-5, 0-3) 44-0 to get their first region win of the season and the 550th win in school history.

Valley scored touchdowns on offense, defense and special teams.

The Mounties were led on offense by senior running back David Ware and senior quarterback Steve Brown.

Ware scored two rushing touchdown and gained 123 yards on 12 carries. Brown threw three touchdown strikes.

Ware kicked off the scoring with a three yard run less than

three minutes in the game. Jair Aguilar’s PAT was blocked and the Mounties led 6-0. Brown hit Jayden Gilmore with a 13-yard pass with 8:11

Blue Devils whip Lincoln 28-3

By Johnny Sanders Sports Editor

MOODY

– The 3-1

Moody Blue Devils welcomed region foe Lincoln, who was also 3-1 heading into tonight’s matchup, to The Bill on Friday night and used a smothering defense and balanced offensive attack to beat the Golden Bears from a few miles East by a final of 28-3.

The game would start with Lincoln on offense but the Blue Devil defense would start their stellar night by holding the Golden Bears to a three-and-out, forcing them to punt. Moody did not take long to score as Charlie Johnston found Blaine Burke on a spectacular throw and catch from 31 yards out to put the Blue Devils up 7-0 and it looked like the route was on. Lincoln had different plans as they found some success both running and throwing the ball. Just after they crossed mid field, however, the Moody defense would tighten up. Ba’roc Willis and Gavin Baker would combine for a sack to push the Golden bears back across the 50 and hold them to a punt. The first quarter would end with a 7-0 Blue Devil lead.

The second quarter would see Johnston attempting to air it out but mostly unable to find his receivers. Junior Moreno, who hit his first field goal of his career last week, would miss a 30-yard attempt to end Moody’s first drive of the second quarter. Lincoln would take over and drive it down to Moody’s 14-yard line, where the defense would once again stiffen and hold the Golden Bears to a field goal to make it 7-3. Despite, once again, moving the ball a good bit, the Blue Devils could not find the end zone and the first half would end with Moody up 7-3.

Moody would come out of the locker room and you could tell Blaine Burke was ready to have a breakout half of football and he did just that. Johnston began to settle in and find his open receivers and this dangerous offense showed exactly what they have the potential to do. The first drive got down to the four-yard line, but penalties backed the Blue Devils up to the 22, where Moreno would miss another field goal. Moody would hold Lincoln to another punt and, after backto-back personal foul penalties by the Golden Bears, Moody would set up shop at the ten-yard line. From there, Johnston would find KD Barnes on a fourth and goal for the Moody touchdown, putting them up 13-0.

The next drive consisted of a 26-yard blast by Burke and another Johnston to Barnes connection, this time from 21 yards out, making it 20-3. An-

other Lincoln punt and another quick scoring drive for the Blue Devils as Burke continued running with a purpose, gaining 46 yards on two runs with the last one of the drive, his last of the night, coming on a 17-yard run for the score. Johnston would find Burke for the two-point conversion to make it 28-3, which was the final.

Charlie Johnston finished the game 18 of 32 for 204 yards and three touchdowns. Barnes caught six of those passes for 71 yards and two scores. Blaine Burke, who has had a bit of a slow start this season, got back to his old ways, running the ball 16 times for 132 yards and a touchdown to go with two catches for 37 yards and another touchdown.

“I was proud of our effort,” said Moody’s Jake Ganus. “In the first half,

in the half to push the Mounties lead to 13-0 after the successful Aguilar PAT.

Moody defensive back AJ Madison during Friday's 28-3 win over Lincoln.

Photo by: Johnny Sanders

David Ware breaks loose for the Mounties (Credit: John Goolsby)

Clay Chalkville hands Eagles second straight loss

By Brittney Bailey

For the Tribune

CENTER POINT– The Clay-Chalkville Cougars added to the win column again Friday night on the road against the Center Point Eagles, 38-14. The Eagles handed the ball over on their first possession that put the Cougars in Eagles territory on the 14-yard line. Aaron Osley hit the ground running for a 14yard touchdown run to give the Cougars a 7-0 lead with just under two minutes off the clock.

bers on the drive, barrelled into the endzone for six more shortly after for his second touchdown of the night to take the Cougar lead to 23. The Eagles managed to stall the Cougars next possession with the second sack of the year on Mbakwe. The Eagles’ efforts wouldn’t hold true, as another botched snap gifted the Cougars a second safety with 5:04 remaining in the first, giving the Cougars a 25-0 lead.

The second quarter, marred with penalties and offensive struggles, remained

ing to a 19-yard touchdown and a 2-point conversion to put 8 on the board with 5:54 remaining in the game.

Penalties would continue to haunt the Cougars for the remainder of the game, leading to an ejection late in the fourth. Chambers pushed the Cougar offense for over 50 yards on the ground collectively on their next drive, despite the penalties, for a 4-yard endzone push to make it a 39-8 ballgame.

The Eagles’ offense refused to lay down, with Center Point quarterback Ther-

Pinson Valley falls to Oxford

By John Goolsby Prep Sports Editor

PINSON – The undefeated and seventh-ranked Oxford Yellow Jackets (5-0, 3-0) broke open a close game in the second half and cruised to a 40-6 region win over Pinson Valley (1-3, 0-2).

The Yellow Jackets drew blood first on a pass from Mason Mims to Jaydonm Thomas to give Oxford a 7-0 lead at the 8:56 mark of the first quarter.

Minutes later, Oxford blocked a Pinson punt out of the back of the end zone to give the Yellow Jackets two points and extended their

lead over the Indians to 9-0.

Oxford added a field goal as the first quarter ended to make the score 12-0.

The Indians finally got on the board with an interception return for a touchdown at the 1:47 mark in the second quarter. The PAT was blocked, and the two teams headed to the locker room with Oxford holding a 12-6 lead.

Unfortunately for the Indians, that was as close as they would get.

Less than a minute into the half, Damious Wilson scored on a 79-yard run to make the score 19-6 in favor of the visiting Yellow Jackets.

The Oxford defense controlled the Jndian offense in the second half. The offensive struggles gave the Yellow Jackets’ potent offense too many opportunities. With 5:27 left in the third quarter, Mims connected with Nick Rich to give Oxford a 26-6 lead.

A minute later, Thomas scored again to pad the Oxford lead to 33-6.

Thomas scored his third and final touchdown of the night with 11:46 remaining in the game to extend the Yellow Jacket lead to 40-6.

Pinson hosts the Homewood Patriots in a non-region game Friday night.

The Eagles botched the snap on their next possession, leading to the first of two safeties for the Cougars on the night, increasing the lead to 9-0. Clay quarterback Jaylen Mbakwe slid through the Eagles’ defense on the next possession with a 29yard touchdown run with 7:30 to go in the first to up the Cougar lead to 16. Mbawke, with help on the ground from Taurus Cham-

scoreless for both parties.

Osley turned up the heat to kick off the third quarter, however, pushing the Cougars to their own 3-yard line on a collection of runs, leading to Mbawke’s third endzone appearance, amping the Cougar lead to 32 after the PAT.

The Eagles would intervene on Cougar production in the fourth, with an interception in Cougar territory, lead-

man Moore sliding through a confused Cougar defense for a 50-yard touchdown run to add on 6 more for the Eagles for a 39-14 final.

Clay Chalkville offensive coordinator Stuart Floyd said, “We definitely started fast on both sides of the ball, but I think we got complacent throughout the game and played sloppy toward the end.

David Ware – Running Back – Shades Valley Jake Conner – Quarterback – Springville

Clay's Jaylen Mbakwe hands off to Aaron Osley in the win over Center Point Friday night. Photo by: Ron Burkett

Reese looks to throw (Credit: Ron Burkett)

Blue Devils

From page 18

we got the ball three times. I think we had almost 200 yards but only seven points. We’ve got to finish. We had the ball on the two, we scored one that got called back and we couldn’t get the field goal before the half. Third quarter, we had three drives and three touchdowns. That’s the standard. We need to score every time we touch it. I’m proud of the offense. They moved the ball. Charlie came out in the second half. He’s got poise. I can yell at him and tell him he missed something. But he has handled himself well the first five games. He’s just getting started.”

“The defense, man, they

Mounties

From page 18

forced a fumble after sacking the Huffman quarterback in the endzone. Senior defensive lineman Kayvian

Springville

play phenomenal every week. They keep us in the games and as long as they do that, we will be in every game. If they don’t score, they don’t win. We held them to a field goal.”

Charlie Johnston was optimistic about his performance.

“First quarter, we came out and had the big play. I got a lot of confidence from that and then the second drive, I got a little antsy and that caused me to struggle from there on. I’m really proud of our offense and how they performed in that second half. Had great protection from the line. It was great to see the team come back after the lull we had in the first half. I just take a deep breath when I get antsy like that. One deep

Riley-Stallings pounced on the ball with 6:21 in the half for a Shades Valley score. Quincy Crawford made an acrobatic catch from Brown to convert the two-point attempt to make the score 21-0.

The Mounties wasted lit-

are much improved in 2023.

breath. I reset and block everything out. When I start playing and having fun, everyone else sees it and starts playing better.”

The next game is a big one for Jake Ganus as he grew up in Shelby County and still resides there now. “It’s important because it’s the next one and because we are in it. It’s close to home to me. My address is Columbiana. That was my rival growing up. When I got the job, there was one game that we needed to schedule and I told Doc (Chris Walters, Moody’s principal) to schedule them. I’m really excited to host them after going there last year.”

The Blue Devils, now 4-1, will welcome the 1-3 Wildcats on Friday night.

tle time adding points to the board in the third quarter. Ware scored on a 15-yard run 90 seconds into the half to make it a 28-point Mountie lead.

The Mounties scored on a 45-yard catch and run

Clay

From page 19

We will have to play better next week or it will not be a good day. But I fully expect our kids to be ready to play Thursday.” Center Point head coach George Bates spoke of his team’s struggles. “Everything that could go wrong in the first three minutes of the game went wrong. Nerves got the best of us early on and playing a great program like Clay, who doesn’t need any help, that can’t happen. Proud of the way we competed in the second half. Throughout the negatives, we found some positives to take away from the game that will help us in

by Ji’Quez Daniels from Brown. Aguilar’s PAT gave the Mounties a 35-0 lead with 6:01 in the third.

With 9:07 remaining in the game, senior linebacker Ethan Johnson shot the gap and hit the Huffman quarter-

Hewitt

the immediate future. We are looking forward to the second half of the season.”

The Cougars remain on the road next Thursday to take

back, causing a fumble. The ball rolled out the back of the end zone, giving the Mounties a safety.

On the ensuing kickoff, Jacaryious Burrow scored on a 65-yard kick return to give the Mounties a 44-0 lead after

on the Thompson Warriors at 7pm on ESPN. Center Point looks to rebound against a 1-4 Fairfield team on Friday night.

the successful PAT. “I get tired off saying we have to get better,” said head coach Rueben Nelson. “We are getting better.” The Mounties host Bessemer City in a non-region game.

verson touchdown, this time from 20 yards out, to make it 35-7 heading into the locker room.

Alverson would start the half with a nine-yard touchdown run to put Springville up 42-7 with just over five minutes to go in the third. Alexandria would answer on the ensuing kickoff, taking it to the house and making it 4214 Tigers. Springville’s Colby Ellis would find paydirt on the next drive from nine yards out to put Springville up 4914. Alexandria would score once again on a kickoff return before the game ended, but that would only narrow the gap a little bit as Springville doubled their win total from a year ago and proved that they

“Jake (Conner) and I have a really good relationship because me and his dad (Kevin, who coaches girls basketball at Clay Chalkville) are such good friends,” said Jon Clements, Springville’s head coach. “He and I talked today as we were on the float for the homecoming parade and I told him he needed to have a good game tonight and he said he needed to score on defense. I told him if he could score on offense and defense, it would be cool. Well, he checked both of those boxes in the first quarter. I was really proud of him for his performance tonight.”

tonight. I was really proud of him also because, after he scored, he was on kickoff team and he ran down and made two huge tackles for us. Just him being who he is.”

From page 17

From page 17 zone, Hewitt marched the entire length of the field, with Peyton Floyd punching it in from 2 yards out, and Hewitt led 7-0 with 6:61 before halftime.

“Noel had a big night as well. He had the big run but he also had eight or nine tackles on defense. He was also blocking and being unselfish.”

quarter, forcing back to back 3 and outs with negative yardage. The Hewitt offense would take advantage of two short fields with two touchdowns in the 3rd quarter to effectively put the game away.

“Mahlon really took tonight personal. Last year when we played them at their place, the got after him pretty good. He was really great

“I was really proud of our guys tonight. The proudest I was all night was with our fans. They showed up and showed out and it was just a great night for high school football. It was a great night for Springville. Having homecoming and all of the distractions, the kids played really good and I was excited and proud for them.”The Tigers, now 2-3, head to Oneonta Friday night to take on the Redskins, who are 3-2.

Hoover would go three and out on their next possession, and Hewitt would start their final drive of the half at their own 41 yard line, and would move methodically but quickly down the field, with Floyd finding Jacob Serena for a key third down conversion. With 15 seconds left in the half, Floyd found paydirt once again from the one yard line. The Tripp Ward PAT was good, and the Huskies took a 14-0 lead into the half.

The Hewitt defense took over the game in the third

The first drive took 11 plays and spanned 48 yards with Floyd scoring his 3rd touchdown of the night. The second drive was 44 yards in 9 plays, with Floyd hitting sophomore Dylan Cope at the 14 who would make a move and sprint to the end zone.

After the Ward PAT, Hoover’s home stands began to empty.

In the 4th quarter, Hewitt would play keep away, with two time consuming drives. Hoover would have a time consuming drive of their own, finally finding the end zone with 6:12 to play.

Hewitt would recover an onside kick, and later face a third and long. Floyd would loft a 50/50 ball that Hoover would intercept at their own 11 with 2:12 left in the game. The Floyd interception was effectively a punt. Hoover would move the ball out to the 28 yard line before turning the ball over on downs, and the Hewitt sideline began its celebration.

“Our defense tonight,” said Floyd, ”they were fun to watch. They (Hoover) have a lot of talent over there with several Division 1 players over there. Super proud of our guys tonight.”

Hewitt improves to 4-1 with the win, and 3-0. Hoover falls to 1-4, and 1-2 in the area. The Huskies take on a winless Huffman Friday night for Homecoming.

Senior linebacker Carterrius Ford

Center Point’s Deon Moore passes the ball during Center Point’s loss to Clay Chalkville Friday night. Photo by: Ron Burkett