The Trussville Tribune – December 2 - 8, 2020

The Tribune

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See PORCH PIRATE, Page 3

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Trussville Christmas Tree Lighting

Trussville PD release images of bank robbery suspect without mask

By Erica Thomas, managing editor

TRUSSVILLE — The Trussville Police Department is investigating after a thief was caught on camera stealing a package from a home.

The incident happened on Monday, Nov. 16, 2020, at 12:05 p.m.

SUN MON

www.TrussvilleTribune.com

December 2 - 8, 2020 Caught on camera: Porch pirate snatching package from Trussville home

WED THU

By Erica Thomas, managing editor

TRUSSVILLE — The Trussville Police Department released new images of a man wanted in connection to an attempted bank robbery in Trussville and a successful bank robbery in Hoover.

Trussville City Council President Alan Taylor, Mayor Buddy Choat and Council members Jaime Melton Anderson and Lisa Bright.

See BANK ROBBERY, Page 3

Bryant Bank’s Natalie Spott, with daughter Ally Kate.

Arrest made in Clay shooting; stepson charged with murder

Trussville Police Sgt. Josh Payne with Santa.

See CLAY MURDER, Page 3

Moody Council approves end of lawsuit agreement, extension of comprehensive plan

By Nathan Prewett

MOODY – A brief city council meeting was held on Monday, Nov. 23 at Moody City Hall where a number of resolutions were passed, including one that would end a lawsuit with a local business concerning the sewer system.

See MOODY, Page 4

Springville Mayor addresses plans to preserve downtown as the city grows

By Terry Schrimscher

SPRINGVILLE — Members of the Springville strategic planning advisory team met with Mayor Dave Thomas before the city council’s regularly scheduled work session on Monday night, November 24.

See SPRINGVILLE, Page 4

Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office warns of scammers posing as deputies From The Tribune staff reports

BIRMINGHAM — The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office is warning citizens about scam artists that are contacting citizens and posing as deputies.

See SCAMMERS, Page 5

Trussville Firefighters get to raking after elderly woman falls while doing yard work

Trussville residents complain about noise from downtown stage

By Erica Thomas, managing editor

TRUSSVILLE — During public comment at a city council meeting on Tuesday, Nov. 24, 2020, a resident stood to speak about loud noise coming from the stage in the middle of downtown Trussville.

By Erica Thomas, managing editor

TRUSSVILLE — This Thanksgiving, some were grasping at straws when it came to counting blessings.

It can be difficult to see all the good things happening in our own backyard or even our neighbor’s front yard when there is so much negativity swirling the universe.

But sometimes it is the things people around us do all of the time that we forget to be thankful for.

There is plenty to be thankful for in the city of Trussville and one of those things is the fire department. A perfect example of that happened on Sunday, Nov. 22.

A woman on Hazlenut Drive was working in her yard when she fell and hurt herself. She also fell into a yellow jacket nest and was stung several times. Trussville Fire and Rescue was called out to help at 3:17 p.m.

When the firefighters and

See TRUSSVILLE STAGE, Page 3

Trussville Fire and Rescue Shift C works to clear woman’s yard after fall on Nov. 22, 2020.

medics arrived, they rushed to help the woman. But they didn’t stop there. The crew worked together to finish raking the woman’s yard.

Councilmember Alan Taylor said a neighbor immediately called him telling him what they just witnessed.

“The lady is elderly and she was wanting to get her yard cleaned up,” said Taylor.

“She keeps her yard pristine and she was in the middle of it and those guys stayed and finished cleaning up the la-

dy’s yard before they left. I don’t know what other city you would find that kind of dedication.”

The woman was rushed to the hospital for treatment while crews cleared her yard.

Fire Chief Tim Shotts isn’t one to brag. In fact, he said what members of his department did is nothing new.

“I think that’s what we are expected to do,” said Shotts.

“It was the right thing to do and that is why they did it.”

But Taylor knows the

mentality of helping others and doing what is right is something to be thankful for this year.

“I’m overwhelmed that we have a department that cares about their citizens so much because she was obviously hurting but to stay and do the job for her,” Taylor added. “I am so proud of them for taking the initiative to do that.”

If you have a story you would like to share with The Tribune, email news@trussvilletribune.com.

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Cookie Dough Magic now open in Trussville Entertainment District From The Tribune staff reports

TRUSSVILLE — A new, sweet spot is now open in downtown Trussville. Cookie Dough Magic serves safeto-eat cookie. The location opened for the first time on Saturday, Nov. 28, 2020.

See COOKIE DOUGH MAGIC, Page 8

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The Trussville Tribune

Page 2

The

Trussville Tribune

Staples celebrates Small Business Saturday by hosting Trussville businesses From The Tribune staff reports

BIRMINGHAM — Several Trussville businesses gathered on Small Business Saturday at the Staples on Edwards Lake Road.

Staples General Sales Manager Jim Stronach said highlighting area businesses was the goal.

“We are supporting small businesses here in Trussville,” said Stronach. “We believe that strong business creates strong communities.”

The businesses, including Kemp’s Kitchen, Great Harvest Bread Co., The Three Eared Rabbit, Shirley’s Florist, It’s a Party and El Compa Taco Truck were among local businesses featured.

190 Main Street Trussville, AL 35173 (205) 533-8664 Scott Buttram, Publisher publisher@trussvilletribune.com Erica Thomas, Managing Editor news@trussvilletribune.com

December 2 - 8, 2020

Photo: Kemp’s Kitchen Facebook page.

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The Trussville Tribune

Local / Region

Leeds man arrested after domestic incident, police chase

Trussville Stage From front page

“This noise has become an intrusion on the quality of our Trussville neighborhood,” said the citizen. “The noise is an allday event with sporting events during the day and bands at night.”

The resident, who lives over a mile away from the stage area, said he wants the city to correct the problem because he can hear it from his house.

Mayor Buddy Choat responded by agreeing the vol-

ume coming from the stage was excessive last Friday.

“It was so loud, I rolled my window down and I couldn’t do it,” Choat said. “The excessive noise was extremely too high.”

Trussville Police also received several calls last Friday

about the noise.

Choat said he alerted Ferus Artisan Ales owner Coby Lake and Lake told him he would address the issue.

The stage area is owned by the city and is part of the new Trussville Entertainment District, also known as “the TED.”

“Shopping online is very common so when the package is delivered it is an easy target for thieves,” Rush said. “It’s important for neighbors to look out for each other and if you see something, say something.”

Rush said surveillance cameras can be helpful for investigators and can deter criminals.

To protect your packages, you can schedule deliveries for times you will be home or have them delivered to a friend’s house. You can also request to pick up your packages from the carrier facility.

Check with your carrier for more information.

If you recognize the person in the video, you are asked to call Trussville Police.

Porch Pirate From front page

In a video from the victim’s front porch, you can see the “porch pirate” grabbing an Amazon package and walking away.

The package contained nearly $400 worth of contents.

Trussville Police Chief Eric Rush said with an increased amount of packages being shipped during the holidays, there is an increased risk for crime.

Clay Murder From front page

From The Tribune staff reports

CLAY — An arrest has been made in connection to a fatal shooting in Clay.

The Jefferson County

Page 3

Sheriff’s Office said deputies arrested 33-year-old Jacob Naquade Chambers in the shooting death of his stepfather. On Tuesday, Nov. 24, Deputies were called to the 7500 block of Weems Lane in Clay to investigate a call of a person shot.

Once on scene, officers

found 56-year-old Paul Edward Trull Jr. suffering from gunshot wounds. Trull later succumbed to his injuries.

Chambers remained on the scene until deputies arrived and was taken into custody.

Police say after interviewing the suspect and several witnesses, Chambers was arrested and charged with murder.

His bond was set at $50,000.

He posted bond and was released from jail on Nov. 25.

According to reports, Chambers was upset regarding a confrontation during which the victim had been accused of assaulting another family member.

From The Tribune staff reports

LEEDS — A Leeds man is facing multiple charges after an early morning incident on Sunday, November 29, 2020.

Officers first responded to a home on a domestic incident call. According to Lt. Jeff Loebler, the suspect fled the scene in a vehicle and a chase ensued.

Eventually, Christopher Turner was taken into custody. He was booked into the St. Clair County Jail at 3:29 a.m., according to jail records.

No injuries were reported during the chase.

Turner is charged with domestic violence, burglary,

Bank Robbery From front page

Both incidents happened on Wednesday, Nov. 25, 2020. First, police say he tried to rob the Pinnacle Bank in Trussville. They say he then went to the BBVA Bank located at 1560 Montgomery Highway in Hoover and robbed the bank.

Hoover Police say the man demanded money from the teller while lifting his shirt to display a handgun, which was tucked into his waistband.

According to reports, the suspect gave the teller a plastic bag and ordered him to place the money in the bag.

After obtaining the cash, he

Christopher Turner. Photo: St. Clair County Jail.

aggravated assault, fleeing or attempting to elude law enforcement and reckless driving.

The Leeds Police Department is investigating. Turner will be given a bond after a judge reviews the case.

left the bank.

The suspect is believed to be approximately 50 to 60 years old, standing 5-foot6 and weighing 250-plus

pounds.

If you recognize the man in the photos, you are asked to call Trussville or Hoover Police.

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The Trussville Tribune

Page 4

Trussville City Council honors retiring Utilities Board member after 18 years of service

Moody From front page

During the meeting city attorney James Hill addressed the council about a “long-standing” lawsuit from what was listed in the agenda as Parkway Family Practice.

Few details were mentioned but Hill said that the lawsuit involved a complaint with the sewer system, which is owned by the city.

The agreement would effectively settle the lawsuit and allow the city to accept or admit no liability and will not have to pay money. Mayor Joe Lee declined to comment on the matter.

Later in the meeting, the council voted to extend the city’s existing comprehensive plan until an updated plan is implemented. The plan will expire at the end of 2020.

“We want to make sure that we revisit the comprehensive plan that was put in place 20 years ago,” Lee said.

“And we want to make sure that the zoning is correct, as well as municipal buildings, Parks and Rec, we want to revisit the entire thing. We’ll probably hire a professional person to help us with that.”

The council also voted to table a resolution that would consider partnering with the

By Erica Thomas, managing editor

Brycer Company and their Compliance Engine, a software system concerning code compliance, fire alarm activities and others related to the fire department. There was also a request for the city to adopt current building and fire code. The resolution would be at no cost to the city.

Towards the end of the meeting, the council voted to cancel the regular meeting on Dec. 28, which falls under the week of the Christmas holidays.

In other business the council: • Approved a training class at the Jefferson County Sheriff Department for Captain Praytor for $350, • Renewed a yearly payment for Leads-On-Line, which is an investigation system that helps fine stolen items for $2,301, • Approved the purchase and installation of a fire

hydrant at Annie Lee Rd. and Cahaba Springs Rd. for $3,500, • Purchased medical supplies at the request of Horton for $1,600, • Approved Horton’s request to purchase and replace all current medical bags for decontamination at the cost of $5,400, • Approved a request to rezone 3404 Moody Parkway from AG-1 (agricultural) to B-3 (tourist commercial district, • Struck down a resolution to reduce the corporate limits to reestablish boundaries of the city, and • Approved painting the hood and top of the Parks and Works vehicle for $1,379 The next meeting of the Moody City Council will take place on Dec. 14 at 6 p.m.

Moody City Hall is located at 670 Park Ave.

Springville From front page

In a previous council meeting, Thomas expressed a desire to upgrade the city’s existing comprehensive plan.

“We have to preserve what we all want to preserve and accommodate for the growth we all agree is inevitable,” said Thomas. Mayor Thomas shared his vision for the downtown area, which he said was part of the charm of living in Springville. The advisory team shared their own thoughts about the future of the city, and a few cherished memories of growing up in the community, as they all agreed that the downtown area should be protected as the city continues to experience rapid growth.

Thomas shared some of his vision for the city’s downtown with the crowd in attendance. He mentioned the potential sale of the Crown Bindery building and adjacent property which he hopes to convert to contain the library. He also hopes to move some city offices back to their former location downtown in the current library location.

In addition to moving some city offices back downtown, Thomas proposed a plan to uncover the city’s lake which was ordered to be covered and filled nearly 50 years ago. The lake was a popular

December 2 - 8, 2020

Springville City Hall is located at 160 Walker Dr.

recreation spot in the early years of the city and Thomas hopes to find a way to bring the area back to life.

Thomas presented his resolution to create a Cityscapes department and hire a director to focus on the appearance and aesthetics of the city. He presented a job description for the position and information on salaries. The council will discuss the proposal in the December meeting.

Police Chief Wayne Walton presented a resolution to sell four older police vehicles at a surplus auction.

He also presented a request to purchase three new vehicles, a new Silverado pickup truck and two new Chevrolet Tahoes from the state bid list.

Chief Walton proposed using money from an insurance settlement and the funds from the sale of the surplus vehicles to offset the cost of the Silverado. The council agreed to consider that purchase at the next meeting on Decem-

ber 7 but asked to wait on the other purchases until the city’s new budget is presented and approved in January.

Fire Chief Richard Harvey requested permission to apply for and use State of Alabama COVID funds, as part of the Cares Act, to upgrade some of the first responder equipment for the city. He proposed new sensors on defibrillators to monitor battery life. He also proposed equipping police vehicles with the equipment and training officers to use the life-saving devices since they are often the first to arrive in a crisis situation.

The council also agreed to address the following at the next meeting: • Restricting large truck access to Purple Heart Drive • Appointing Gayle Hammonds to the library board through November 2023 • Creating a resolution to allow the Springville Fire Department to sell surplus equipment

TRUSSVILLE — The city of Trussville honored Don Evans during a city council meeting on Tuesday, Nov. 24, 2020.

Evans served 18 years as a board member for Trussville Utilities Board. During his time on the board, he served as Board Director, Vice Chairman and Chairman. He never missed a meeting in nearly two decades of service. Mayor Buddy Choat thanked Evans for being an example of a community servant.

The following items were noted as accomplishments by the board over the past 18 years: • 18 consecutive years of satisfactory inspections of its natural gas system by the Alabama Public Service Commission • 18 consecutive years of satisfactory inspections of its water systems by the Alabama Department of Environmental Management • Fully Funding of Its Pension Obligations • Completion of Its Operations Building on Green Drive • The Successful Sale of Its Liquified Natural Gas Plant • The Successful Hiring of a General Manager After the Retirement of Bill Wingate • Keeping Rates Consistently Lower Than Surrounding Utilities The city council passed a proclamation expressing gratitude to Evans. The only council member not in attendance at Tuesday’s meeting was Perry Cook.

During public comment, a resident stood to speak about loud noise coming from the stage in the middle of downtown Trussville.

Mayor Buddy Choat responded by agreeing the column was excessive on Friday and that he has addressed the issue.

The city council also voted to amend two parts of the city’s zoning ordinance, No. 2000034-PZ. The first amendment outlines the downtown overlay map and establishes boundaries. The amendment establishes the “Main Thoroughfare” of downtown Trussville as the area surrounding Main Street and Chalkville Road.

The second amendment outlines regulations for businesses in all commercial districts of the city, in reference to parking lots or vacant spaces.

While the city does not allow business to be conducted in

Don Evans accepts proclamation honoring his service on the Trussville Utilities Board, on Tuesday, Nov. 24, 2020.

such areas, there are exceptions including food trucks, temporary facilities, construction trailers, festivals, Christmas tree sales. The amended ordinance also allows and some shopping center displays.

The council approved the annexation of a property at 425 Mobile Avenue. The property owner requested the annexation and the city’s Planning and Zoning Committee recommended its approval.

In other business, the council approved resolutions concerning all of the city’s bank accounts at Synovus Bank.

Any withdrawal of funds must come at the requests of any of the two following signatories: Mayor Buddy Choat, Councilor Alan Taylor, Councilor Perry Cook, Finance Director Mike Hinson or City Clerk Dan Weinrib. The resolution passed unanimously, with the exception of Councilor Cook, who was not in attendance.

City employees will get an early Christmas present this year if they have worked for the city for five years or more. The council approved longevity pay to be distributed on Nov. 27. The one-time payment breaks down as follows based on years of service: • Zero (0) through Four (4) Years - $00 • Five (5) to Nine (9) Years - $400.00 • Ten (10) to Fourteen (14) Years - $500.00 • Fifteen (15) to Nineteen (19) Years - $750.00 • Twenty (20) Years and Over - $1,000.00 The council also approved the following holiday schedule for the city of Trussville: • December 31, 2020 & January 1, 2021 - New Years Holidays • January 18 - Martin Luther King Jr. Day • April 2 - Good Friday • May 31 - Memorial Day • July 5 - Independence Day (observed) • September 6 - Labor Day • November 11 - Veterans Day • November 25 & 26 Thanksgiving Holidays

• December 23 & 24 - Christmas Holidays (observed) • December 31, 2021 - 2022 New Year Holidays The following dates were approved for city council meetings: • January 12, 2021 • January 26, 2021 • February 9, 2021 • February 23, 2021 • March 9, 2021 • March 23, 2021 • April 13, 2021 • April 27, 2021 • May 11, 2021 • May 25, 2021 • June 8, 2021 • June 22, 2021 • July 13, 2021 • July 27, 2021 • August 10, 2021 • August 24, 2021 • September 14, 2021 • September 28, 2021 • October 12, 2021 • October 26, 2021 • November 9, 2021 • November 23, 2021 • December 14, 2021 • December 28, 2021 City Council dates can be changed if council members approve a change.

The following items were approved as part of the consent agenda: • Promote Heather Mathis (Inspections) to Accounting Assistant II. (Grade 16 – Step 1) effective Nov 21, 2020 • Promote Mandy Dixon (Admin) to Human Resources Director (Grade 34 – Step 4) effective Nov 21, 2020 • Police Officers Keith Fuell, Bobby Tomlin, John Middleton and Casey Shelnutt becoming corporals with 5% Premium Pay as lead workers effective Dec 5, 2020 • Hire Joseph Williams (Public Works) as an unclassified laborer (Grade 7 – Step 3) effective Nov 29, 2020 • Reappoint Buddy Aydelette & Appoint Eddie Seal to Trussville Utility Board • Reappoint Matt Phillips & David Morgan to Trussville Redevelopment Authority • Parks & Recreation Board changing its monthly 6 pm meeting schedule to 3rd Tuesday from 2nd Monday • Fire Department leasing Motorola equipment.

Already budgeted for FY2021 Fire Chief Tim Shotts said the new radio equipment will allow for better communication from emergency vehicles.

“This will bring us into compliance with the national standards,” Shotts said. “This will improve our communications.”

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December 2 - 8, 2020

The Trussville Tribune

Page 5

M e t r o / S tat e

Blount County man suffers fatal Officer identified in fatal 2018 fall in Smoky Mountains Thanksgiving shooting at Riverchase Galleria

GATLINBURG, Tenn.

(AP) — An Alabama man fell from an overlook in Great Smoky Mountains National Park and died, officials said.

Wesley Brandon Stedham, 48, of Warrior, Alabama, suf-

fered severe head trauma in the fall from the Chimney Tops overlook along Newfound Gap Road on Tuesday, park officials said.

Stedham was well-known in Blount County for calling home games for Hayden High

School football.

Stedham had stepped down for a photograph, news outlets reported.

Park rangers and rescuers used a rope and pulley system to bring Stedham back to the overlook.

Hospitals brace for possible postThanksgiving COVID surge

By KIM CHANDLER Associated Press

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) — Alabama hospitals are bracing for a post-holiday surge in COVID-19 cases since infections were already rising before Thanksgiving gatherings, hospital officials said.

“It’s going to be really bad,” said Dr. Don Williamson, the former state health officer who now heads the Alabama Hospital Association. “Barring a miracle, we are going to have a substantially worsening situation by the middle of December.”

The seven-day rolling average of daily new cases in Alabama has risen over the past two weeks from 1,519 new cases per day on Nov. 10 to 2,288 new cases per day on Nov. 24, according to the COVID Tracking Project.

The seven-day rolling average of daily reported deaths in Alabama has risen over the past two weeks from 19 deaths per day on Nov. 10 to 24 deaths per day on Nov. 24.

Williamson said a significant concern for hospitals is the number of nurses and

other medical employees who are out because they have gotten COVID-19 or have been exposed.

“I talked to every hospital in the state (Monday.) The universal concern is about staffing,” he said.

Huntsville Hospital CEO David Spillers said COVID-19 patients are up to 30% of all patients in smaller regional hospitals. He is concerned about a spike in December that, unlike the summer spike, will come at a time when hospitals are dealing with other respiratory illnesses that they typically see in winter.

While a vaccine is on the horizon, he urged people not to abandon precautions.

“Help us get through this,” Spillers said. “We are getting close to being overwhelmed if the numbers continue to rise like they are.”

Dr. David Thrasher, a Montgomery pulmonologist, said the state is “approaching Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s in a bad position.”

“You’re sick of hearing about masks and I’m sick of talking about them. Nevertheless, they are our best weapon

that we have to get through this mess,” Thrasher wrote in a statement about the state of the pandemic.

Dr. Kierstin Kennedy, chief of hospital medicine at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, said this week that holiday celebrations, where people gathered in indoor settings, are the perfect setup to spread COVID-19.

“We are very much worried about the potential spike in numbers,” Kennedy said, but she added that people can help prevent it by taking precautions.

Kennedy said COVID-19 is often spread before people know they are sick, so it is important to keep up precautions such as wearing masks and to remember that the virus can be spread in small groups.

“I have yet to admit a patient to our hospital who felt like they had done anything overtly reckless to get COVID. Every person that I admit, what they will tell me is that, ‘Well, I hung out with one or two people,’ or, ‘I was only there for an hour or so.’ In their minds, what they were doing is really low risk.”

From The Tribune staff reports

HOOVER — The Hoover police officer who shot and killed E.J. Bradford on Thanksgiving night in 2018 has been identified following a lawsuit by Bradford’s mother.

According to court documents, the officer that fired the shot that killed Bradford was David Alexander, who was on duty at the Riverchase Galleria that night. After an investigation, the shooting was ruled justified by the state of Alabama.

Bradford was shot by Alexander in the aftermath of a separate shooting that took place in the Hoover mall on Nov. 22, 2018. At the time, police say the officer thought

Scammers From front page

Sgt. Joni Money said scammers are contacting citizens and telling them they have missed a court date or failed to pay a fee ordered by

I S I T T I M E TO R E P L AC E YO U R

Photo: Hoover Police Facebook page.

Bradford was the gunman that shot a teen and 12-yearold girl. An investigation later showed the shooter to be an-

other man.

A lawsuit filed by Bradford’s family against the city of Hoover is still pending.

the courts.

“They are identifying themselves as members of law enforcement, often using names of law enforcement officials that may be familiar,” said Money.

The scammer then de-

mands payment in order for the victim to keep from being arrested.

“Please don’t fall for it,” said Money. “Members of law enforcement will never call you and ask you for money over the phone, nor will they ask you to leave cash at an unusual location.”

If you or someone you know has been a victim of such a scam, call the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office or your local law enforcement agency.

Money added, “It is upsetting to see our citizens being scammed out of their hard-earned money, particularly during the holiday season and during this pandemic.”

natural gas F U R N AC E ?

The Trussville Tribune

Page 6

December 2 - 8, 2020

Christmas parades in Trussville, Pinson, Clay, Center Point, Springville, Argo, Leeds and Moody From The Tribune staff reports

As the holiday season approaches, cities are planning tree lightings, events for kids and parades. The Tribune compiled a list of events scheduled for the eight cities in our coverage area.

The events are listed below.

If your city has an event planned that is not on the list, email news@trussvilletribune.com.

TRUSSVILLE • PARADE – SATURDAY, DEC. 12, 3 P.M. FROM THE MALL TO MAIN STREET

PINSON • PARADE AND TREE LIGHTING – FRIDAY, DEC. 11, 6:30 P.M. FROM SPRING ST. TO BICENTENNIAL PARK CLAY • PARADE – SATURDAY, DEC. 5, 3 P.M.

BEGINNING AT CLAYCHALKVILLE HIGH SCHOOL CENTER POINT • FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS – SATURDAY, DEC. 5 AT DUSK AT CIVITAN PARK • PARADE – SATURDAY,

DEC. 12, 11 A.M., FROM CATHEDRAL OF THE CROSS SPRINGVILLE • PARADE – SATURDAY, DEC. 12, 6 P.M. LEEDS • PARADE – FRIDAY, DEC. 11, 7 P.M.

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Argo tables decision on whether or not to have Christmas parade

By Erik Harris, sports editor

ARGO — The Argo City Council on Monday took steps to address complications surrounding COVID-19 and hol-

iday traditions.

With coronavirus cases spiking throughout the county, state and beyond, Argo passed a vote to cancel the city’s annual employee Christmas party. The decision was not unan-

imous.

Although the city will not host its usual party due to health concerns, it will likely provide turkeys for each of its roughly 40 employees this holiday season.

“I hate to see us not do anything for our employees,” said councilmember Ann Brown. “I would be willing to pitch in to buy turkeys.”

Argo also tabled a decision on what to do with the city’s

annual Christmas parade. The council will vote on whether or not to allow the parade at its next meeting on Dec. 1.

“A lot of cities have started to cancel their parades, so (Argo) is going to have

to make a decision whether we need to cancel ours,” said Mayor Betty Bradley. “I don’t want to get anybody sick.”

The parade is currently scheduled for Dec. 12, starting at 10 a.m.

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The Trussville Tribune

December 2 - 8, 2020

Page 7

Politics

Tuberville names Boyd Judge reduces prison as chief of staff sentence for former Alabama speaker

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) — Senator-elect Tommy Tuberville on Wednesday announced that Assistant Attorney General Stephen Boyd, an Alabama native with a lengthy Washington D.C. resume, will serve as his chief of staff.

Boyd is currently the assistant attorney general for the Office of Legislative Affairs at the U.S. Department of Justice. The post is responsible for managing the Justice Department’s relationship with Congress. He was nominated to the position by President Donald Trump in 2017.

He previously was chief of staff for U.S. Rep. Martha Roby and also worked for former Sen. Jeff Sessions in policy and communications roles.

Boyd is a 2004 graduate of the University of Alabama School of Law and 2001 graduate of the University of Alabama College of Communications.

“He is well-known throughout Alabama and

By KIM CHANDLER Associated Press

knows how to get things done on Capitol Hill. Stephen is a leader of tremendous integrity and during my discussions with him, it became abundantly clear that he is the right person for the job,” Tuberville said in a statement announcing the appointment.

“Stephen is a true conservative who has fought for our Alabama values since moving to Washington D.C. and I’m proud to announce him as my chief of staff,” Tuberville said.

Boyd is Tuberville’s first announced staff hire.

Tuberville defeated incumbent Sen. Doug Jones to win back the Alabama Senate seat for Republicans.

The former college football coach who has never held public office has acknowledged he will have a steep learning curve in the U.S. Senate. He told The Associated Press in an earlier interview that one of his first priorities will be to put together an experienced staff.

DEMARCO: November brings good news to Alabama from the United States Air Force Paul DeMarco is a former member of the Alabama House of Representatives

By Paul DeMarco

While it seems like everything we hear out of Washington D.C. is bad these days, thus two announcements this past week will bring welcome news to Alabama.

First, the United States Air Force released the news that the city of Huntsville made the final list of prospective sites for the home of the United States Space Command.

There were only five other locations around the Nation that made the cut. The Command will bring 1,400 employees to staff the mission. Huntsville had made the original short list before the Air Force was ordered to review their choices again.

The city already is the home for some of the country’s most important missions with NASA and the Army’s Space and Missile Command located there. In addition, the city already has the infrastructure and skilled workforce to man the operation. The decision will come in early 2021.

That same week the Air Force also revealed that Montgomery’s Maxwell Air

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) — A judge on Wednesday slashed former House Speaker Mike Hubbard’s prison sentence from four years to 28 months, significantly reducing the time the once-powerful Republican will spend behind bars for an ethics conviction.

Lee County Circuit Judge Jacob Walker reduced Hubbard’s sentence at the request of defense attorneys after part of his conviction was overturned earlier this year. In his order, Walker noted that Hubbard was convicted of 12 felonies when he handed down the four-year sentence, but that six counts were reversed on appeal.

The action was met with swift criticism from Alabama’s attorney general and praise from Hubbard’s attorney who had argued a four-year sentence was too harsh for the reduced conviction.

“While we were hoping for a more substantial reduction of sentence, we welcome this decision. We are grateful for Judge Walker’s recognition of the issues that prompted his action today,” attorney Lance Bell said in a statement.

Attorney General Steve Marshall expressed disappointment in the sentence reduction.

“Mr. Hubbard was convicted of the intentional violation of Alabama’s ethics laws, the same laws he championed in the legislature only later to brazenly disregard for his personal enrichment,” Marshall said in a

statement.

“Even as he sits in state prison as a six-time felon, Mike Hubbard continues to deny any guilt or offer any remorse for his actions in violation of the law. Reducing his original fouryear sentence sends precisely the wrong message to would-be violators of Alabama’s ethics laws.”

A jury in 2016 convicted Hubbard of violating the state ethics law, including using his public office for personal financial gain. Prosecutors accused Hubbard of leveraging his powerful public office to obtain clients and investments for his businesses, violating the prohibition against giving a “thing of value” to an elected official.

His defense maintained the contracts were legitimate work and unrelated to his position as House speaker.

In upholding the conviction this spring, justices noted that when contacting a company for one client, Hubbard “identi-

fied himself as a state legislator and as Speaker of the House of Representatives.” They also noted how one company executive wrote in an email that Hubbard could get the company, “in front of any speaker in the country regardless of party.”

The Republican was one of the state’s most powerful politicians until the ethics conviction in a corruption case ended his political career. Hubbard, the architect of the GOP’s takeover of the Alabama Legislature in 2010, was a legislator from Auburn and former chairman of the Alabama Republican Party. He was elected House speaker soon after Republicans won control of both legislative chambers.

Hubbard was automatically removed from office after his 2016 felony conviction.

Hubbard reported to jail in September and was later moved into the state prison system.

He is currently incarcerated at Limestone Correctional Facility.

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The Trussville Tribune

Page 8

Tribune Living

Trussville Rotary and Full Moon give Thanksgiving meals to families in need From The Tribune staff reports

Pictured are Rotarians Ty Williams, Dr. Kristi Bradford, and Rich Yokeley. Rich is also the owner of Full BBQ Trussville.

TRUSSVILLE — Families in need were given food for Thanksgiving, thanks to a partnership between the Trussville Rotary Daybreak Club and Full Moon BBQ. Deliveries were made on Tuesday, Nov. 24.

The Trussville Rotary Daybreak Club meets at 7 a.m. on the first through fourth Wednesday mornings of each month, usually through Zoom.

For more information on the Trussville Rotary Daybreak Club, or to help with a project, email Diane Poole at dianepoole1225@centurytel.net.

HTHS Teacher and Students of the Month announced From The Tribune staff reports

Miller and Caitlyn Mosley

• 12th grade : Ahmaria Jones and Jay Naylor

TRUSSVILLE — The Students and Teacher of the Month for Hewitt-Trussville High School for November were announced on Monday, Nov. 30, 2020.

Teacher Jill Greene was named Teacher of the Month.

The following students won the honor for the month of November: • 9th grade: Clayton Hollis and Reece Rutland • 10th grade: DJ Carter and Marley Carmichael • 11th grade: Matthew

December 2 - 8, 2020

Trussville councilmember graduates from leadership institute

From The Tribune staff reports

TRUSSVILLE — Last Thursday, Trussville councilmember Lisa Bright was one of 40 fellows to graduate in the inaugural class of the Appalachian Leadership Institute.

Bright and her fellow Class of 2020 graduates were recognized at a virtual ceremony on Nov. 19.

In the year leading up to graduation, Bright participated in three in-person sessions and eight months of virtual programming, all of which included skill-building seminars with regional experts, peer-topeer learning, and case study analysis. All aspects of the curriculum were designed to equip fellows with the knowledge and network needed to

Cookie Dough Magic From front page

Cookie Dough Magic Trussville is in the same building as Ferus Artisan Ales, on Beech Street. The space is larger than the current location in Avondale.

As for the atmosphere, the design of the 1400 sq. ft. space is based on the existing location in Birmingham, owner Chris Bell said. Local franchisee Christie McKee said she is excited to introduce the product to the people of Trussville.

“We just want people to come down and check us out,” said McKee. “If you’ve never been to the one in Avondale,

create positive change in their communities. Bright was one of three representing Alabama in the inaugural class.

“Being chosen to be a part of the ARC Leadership Institute offered the ability to network and collaborate with fellow Appalachians across the region… a life changing opportunity,” said Bright, CEO of the Will Bright Foundation.

As a graduate of the Appalachian Leadership Institute, she is now part of the Appalachian Leadership Institute Alumni Network. With each

this is a perfect time to come down.”

The shop has a family-friendly vibe during the day and at night, things darken a little for the mature crowd.

Bell believes the experience will complement the brewery next door. Above all, he hopes this new concept will delight palates and put smiles on faces.

Bell said his business prides itself on high-quality products with real ingredients.

He says Cookie Dough Magic’s customer service is also top-notch.

The product itself is safe to eat because the flour undergoes a special heat treatment to kill bacteria. Although you’ve always been told not to eat cookie dough, this concept

graduating class, the network will continue to grow, connect leaders, and facilitate continued learning and idea exchange across the 13 Appalachian states.

According to a press release, the Appalachian Leadership Institute is a comprehensive leadership and economic development training opportunity for people who live and/ or work in Appalachia and are passionate about helping their communities thrive. Appalachian Leadership Institute Fellows participate in an extensive training curriculum developed by the Appalachian Regional Commission in partnership with the University of Tennessee, Knoxville; The Howard H. Baker Jr. Center for Public Policy; Tuskegee University; and Collective Impact.

Photo: Cookie Dough Magic Trussville.

is a game-changer. The cookie dough is served chilled, in a cone, cup or in a milkshake.

Magic Chocolate Chip, Salty Sweet, Birthday Cake Batter and Magic Unicorn are some of the options served at Cookie Dough Magic. There are also vegan and gluten-free options.

You can learn more about Cookie Dough Magic from its website at www.mycookiedoughmagic.com.

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The Trussville Tribune

Calendar

Center Point Festival of Lights December 5 @ 5:30 pm 6:30 pm

Come drive thru and see Center Point’s Civitan park lit up for the holidays. December 5th at a little after disk will start our festive event and it will run through Christmas. Santa will wave and have a mail drop off for letters to maintain social distancing. You will be able to drive thru and see the lights then head over to city hall for hot chocolate and live music. Food trucks will also be in attendance!

Venue Center Point Civitan park AL HWAY 75 Center Point , AL 35215 United States

more information, contact Tim Gann at timgann294@ gmail.com

LIVE Drive-in + Virtual Arts Pass Event Eric Essix and Holiday Soul December 13 @ 7:00 pm 8:30 pm $12 - $25

19th Annual Center Point Christmas Parade December 12 @ 11:00 am - 12:30 pm Free The parade will take place on Saturday, December 12 at 11:00 a.m. Parade entries will line up at Cathedral of the Cross Church (1480 Center Point Road) beginning at 9:00 a.m. The parade route will begin at the church and end in the Post Office parking lot. For

Grab curbside from Chez Fon Fon or pack dinner to join us for a live Drive-in concert starring Eric Essix and Holiday Soul. Essix and friends will perform a handpicked collection of soulful songs along with all your holiday favorites!

Eric Essix began his musical life on electric guitar and played it into his 20s.

Enamored by the style of

Earl Klugh, he later bought an acoustic guitar and began incorporating it into his developing sound. For the last 24 years, his primary melodic voice and trademark sound have emerged from his red Gibson Howard Roberts Fusion model. The “25/30” Project will feature music that he describes as “rough around the edges,” with Eric playing a Stratocaster for the first time in a while to complement his established hollow body vibe.

The most fulfilling part of this musical journey has been experiencing, in real-time, my evolution as an artist,” Eric says. “My mindset has shifted dramatically and is light years away from when I was a young guitarist first making records, focusing on being flashy and showing people how fast I could play. In those days, it was all about speed and lots of notes, being a gunslinger – but as I have grown as a musician and especially as a person, I like to think I have developed as a composer and songwriter of maturity and depth as well as a guitar player.”

5p | Parking lot opens (Vehicles will be parked in the order of arrival) 7p | Concert begins Venue Education and Engineering Complex, Parking Lot (Lot 15F) 1150 10th Avenue South Birmingham, AL 35233 United States

Page 9

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Only 75 tickets will be sold. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased beginning Dec. 1 at Trussville Area Chamber of Commerce, Carroll Pharmacy, DeDe’s Book Rack, EW Motion and Trussville Antiques.

The Trussville Tribune

Page 10

Janis Rebecca Meadows

O b i t u a ry

7, 1968 ~ november 22, 2020 (age 52)

june

Janis Rebecca Meadows, age 52, of Margaret, AL went to be with the Lord, Sunday, November 22, 2020. She is survived by her sons Brandon Meadows, Joshua Meadows, TJ Burtram, and Jordan Walker; her daughter Jessica Payton (Levi); her sisters Vickie Morehead (Jeff) and Lucretia “Sissie” Parker (Terry); and her grandchildren Hunter Meadows, Trent “T-Bone” Meadows, Haiston Meadows, Eli Meadows, Camden Burtram, Weston Burtram, and Cóven Payton. Janis is preceded in death by her husband Robert “Bobby’ L. Meadows and her parents Jerome and Virginia Walker. Janis loved to take care of everyone else, she loved her family and had a heart of gold.

She enjoyed arts and crafts and woodworking. Janis’s services will be held at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home in Trussville, AL Tuesday, December 2, 2020 with a Visitation 2-3 P.M. and a Chapel Service to follow at 3 P.M. There will be no burial.

Sandra F. Crowder august

December 2 - 8, 2020

3, 1945 ~ november 22, 2020 (age 75) Sandra Freeze Crowder, age 75, passed away peacefully at home on November 22, 2020. She was born Birmingham, AL and was the daughter of Bill and Virgie Freeze. Sandi will forever be remembered as a loving and generous wife, mother, grandmother and friend to all that knew her. She is survived by her husband of 42 years Kenneth Samuel Crowder; her children Cindy Echols (Adam), Jeff Dennis (Tori), Chris Dennis, Lindsey Earley, Alana Patterson (Chris) and Stephen Nichols; her brother Charles “Billy” Freeze (Wanda) and numerous grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Sandi is preceded in death by her father Richard “Bill” Freeze, her mother Virgie Freeze Hughes, her brother Robert “Bobby” Freeze and her niece Stephanie Michelle Cosby.

Sandra Craft march

26, 1949 – november 24, 2020(age 71)

Sandra Craft, age 71, of Leeds, Alabama passed away on Tuesday, November 24, 2020. Sandra was born March 26, 1949.

Sandra is survived by daughter Bridget (Ron) Phillips; and daughter Regina (Wayne) Temple; sister Francis (Jim) Skinner and brother Larry (JoAnn) Harris; grandchildren, Charles Lyon and Victoria Stanley; great-grandchildren, Ryder Stanley, Ryan Stanley and Robbin Lyon.

Sandra was preceded in death by her husband James R. Craft; parents Clure and Mellie Harris.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.kilgroefuneralhome.com for the Craft family.

FAMILY: James R. Craft, Husband (deceased), Clure and Mellie Harris, Parents (deceased), Bridget (Ron) Phillips, Daughter, Regina (Wayne) Temple, Daughter, Francis (Jim) Skinner, Sister, Larry (JoAnn) Harris, Brother, Charles Lyon, Grandchild, Victoria Stanley, Grandchild, Ryder Stanley, great-grandchild, Ryan Stanley, great-grandchild, Robbin Lyon, great-grandchild

Sandra Jean Bolton

Sandra Jean Bolton, 84, a longtime resident of Trussville, died Nov. 24, 2020.

A memorial service will be held after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Survivors include her husband of 65 years, Clyde Bolton; three sons, Mike, Mark and Mitch Bolton; four grandchildren, Cory, Hannah and Lily Bolton and Lauren Davis; a great-grandson, Dakota Davis; four sisters and two brothers.

Mrs. Bolton was a graduate of Alexandria High School and a member of Taylor Memorial United Methodist Church. Over the years she owned an antique shop and children’s clothing store and taught kindergarten, but she was foremost a homemaker. She closed her businesses early to be at home when her children arrived from grammar school.

“I was put on earth to take care of other people,” Mrs. Bolton said frequently, and she lived up to calling with energy and skill. She was a renowned cook who was recently featured in the magazine Discover, The Essence of St. Clair. She enjoyed hosting groups large and small to show her appreciation, among them the staff of the Trussville Library and the farmers who have booths at the local farmers’ market. She honored the Bible verses in which Jesus said serving others was serving him. A common sight was her preparing a pot of deef stew or vegetable soup for a family stricken with illness.

“What’s Jesus having for supper tonight?” her husband would ask.

Larry Keith Chamblee march

Her husband asks that memorials be made to Operation Smile, Gift Precessing Center, PO Box 5017, Hagerstown, Md. 21741.

24, 1945 ~ november 22, 2020 (age 75)

Lori Ann Horsley

Larry died on November 22, 2020. He is survived by his wife, Katrina S. Chamblee; brothers, Carl Ed Chamblee. Charles R. Chamblee (Rena), Gary D. Chamblee (Joan); his 2 daughters, Tracy E. Klein (Jason) and Tracey C. Talley (Tom); along with 6 grandchildren, Megan, Zach, Katie Jo, Elisabeth, Alex, and Sadie; and 2 great-granddaughters, Adrian and Stella Rae. Larry was a graduate of Phillips High School, University of Alabama in Business, and was awarded the first MBA issued by UAB in 1972 and then a Master's in Accounting in 1989. He served in the Air Force as a Captain for 4 years. He retired from Pro Assurance in 2006 as Vice President and Corporate Controller. His life was one of service. He served on numerous charitable boards including President of the ARC of Jefferson and Blount County and UAB National Alumni Society. Once retired, he remained in active service as Treasurer and then President of the Ono Island POA and Secretary/Treasurer of the Ono Island Fire Protection Board. Graveside services will be held at Jefferson Memorial Gardens in Trussville, AL. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Autism Society of America online. "ROLL TIDE ROLL!" says Larry.

11, 1961 – november 20, 2020(age 59)

may

Lori Ann Horsley age 59, passed away on Friday November 20, 2020.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Em and Rozelle Horsley; sister, Francis Ingram; brothers, Ray Horsley and David Horsley. She is survived by her sons, Jason Horsley and Brian (Lisa) Horsley; sisters, Diane (Glenn) Newman, Jack Peoples, Silvia (Jimmy) Cambron and Tammy (Allen) Amberson; brothers, Mike Horsley, Darron Horsley and Aaron (Tina) Horsley; grandchildren, Izzy, Cameron, Jessie, Tori, Olivia, Raelyn, Remington, Emery, Anna and Angel.

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sports

Keeping Co Community 1st Always

Pinson Valley vs. Spanish Fort High School at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Friday, Dec. 4 at 7:30 p.m.

The Trussville Tribune December 2 - 8, 2020

STATE BOUND Pinson handles Mountain Brook in the rain, advances to 6A championship

By Erik Harris, sports editor

PINSON — The Pinson Valley Indians will play for the Class 6A state championship this Friday night in Tuscaloosa.

To get there, the thirdranked Tribe (11-2) needed playoff wins over Arab, Shades Valley, No. 1 Oxford and No. 2 Mountain Brook.

The final step in that journey — a 27-10 decision over the Spartans — played out on Friday night at Willie Adams Stadium in Pinson.

“This is exciting,” said first-year head coach Sam Shade. “Since we started, every workout, every practice, the last thing they say is, ‘12-3 state champs!’ and that’s what they want.”

Linebacker Alijah May opened up the scoring on Friday night, scooping up a fumble and returning it 46 yards to the end zone for a 6-0 lead with 7:22 remaining in the opening quarter.

Pinson Valley extended the lead to 13-0 on its next possession when Sharpe shot up the middle for a 93-yard touchdown run. He also finished the evening with a 39-

Pinson Valley defenders swarm Mountain Brook quarterback Strother Gibbs during a semifinal win last Friday night. Photo by Vickie Unlap

yard score with 1:05 remaining in the fourth, setting the final score at 27-10. Sharpe averaged 20 yards per carry on eight calls for the Tribe.

On a rainy night in Pinson, the home team ran the ball 30 times on just 32 total plays from scrimmage. Every bit of the Indians’ 242 yards of offense came on the ground.

Quarterback Zach Pyron ate up 53 of those yards on a read-option keeper down the home sideline. His long touchdown run stretched the difference to 17 points with 9:34 remaining in the fourth.

“We only threw the ball two times tonight and that’s what happens when the weather is like this,” said Py-

ron. “When I kept it and broke that tackle, I was just thinking ‘don’t get chased down.’”

For Pyron, a junior transfer from Fyffe, this will be his third straight championship game appearance as a high school quarterback.

“It feels great,” said Pyron. “I’ve just been blessed since my freshman year just

to be playing with guys that work extremely hard and are super dedicated. At Fyffe, we worked hard and here at Pinson, everybody has the same goal.”

With Pyron, Sharpe, and a physical front leading the offense, the Indians were no less impressive on the defensive side. Mountain Brook

squeaked out 161 yard of offense in the season-ending loss. The Spartans were forced into five punts and finished with 10 first downs.

They also turned it over on downs twice.

Mountain Brook’s one touchdown came courtesy of Jackson Burwell, who punched it in from 3 yards out to cut the deficit to 20-10 with 2:10 remaining in the game.

Sharpe answered that score with his second TD rush of the night, pushing the game out of reach.

"It feels good to be going back, we've got to finish with a bang, though," said Pinson Valley senior Ga'Quincy McKinstry.

The Indians scored another defensive touchdown, Michael Sharpe Jr. ran for 160 yards and two scores, and Pinson Valley marched on to its third semifinal victory in the last four years.

The Indians notched their first two state crowns in 2017 and 2018 under former head coach Patrick Nix. Pinson Valley will face Spanish Fort in the Class 6A finals this Friday night in Bryant-Denny Stadium in Tuscaloosa.

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December 2 - 8, 2020

Springville celebrates 3 softball signees

By Erik Harris, sports editor

SPRINGVILLE — The Springville softball program celebrated three scholarship signees on Monday.

Seniors Tatum Bartlett and Karli Davidson both plan on playing their college ball at Wallace Community College in Dothan while Reagan Cornelius will continue her career at Snead State. The trio will cap off its prep career this spring, as the Tigers work their first season of Class 6A competition.

Head coach Brandon Easterwood says his senior class is anxious to get back on the field after last season was cut short due to COVID-19.

“Last year was going to be a big opportunity for them to step up and be a big part of what we’ve done, but these girls have been around before that point and they’ve worked really hard and they’re great teammates,”

Springville senior Karli Davidson signs a softball scholarship to Wallace Community College in Dothan on Monday afternoon at SHS. Photo by Erik Harris

Super 7 schedule set, including Pinson-Spanish Fort

By Erik Harris, sport editor

TUSCALOOSA — State championship matchups are now set for each of the seven AHSAA classifications.

And one of the 14 teams traveling to Tuscaloosa this week for the Super 7 Championships will be Class 6A Pinson Valley. Running back Michael Sharpe Jr. led the third-ranked Indians to a 2710 victory over No. 2 Mountain Brook last Friday night at Willie Adams Stadium. The junior took the reins of Pinson Valley’s offense on a rainy

Friday night, running for 160 yards and two scores on eight carries.

The Indians (11-2) also got a defensive touchdown from linebacker Alijah May, who got his hands on a Mountain Brook fumble and pulled away for a 46-yard scoopand-score for the first points of the game.

Up next for Pinson Valley is a championship showdown with No. 7 Spanish Fort next Friday night at Bryant-Denny Stadium in Tuscaloosa. That game will conclude the Super 7 Championships and is

scheduled to kickoff at 7:30 p.m.

See a complete Super 7 schedule below.

AHSAA SUPER 7 STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS At Bryant-Denny Stadium, Tuscaloosa, Dec. 2-3-4 Wednesday, Dec. 2 CLASS 7A Finals Auburn (11-1) vs. Thompson (13-0), 7 p.m.

Thursday, Dec. 3 CLASS 3A Finals Montgomery Catholic (12-2) vs. Fyffe (14-0), 10 a.m.

CLASS 1A Finals

Linden (13-0) vs. Pickens County (11-3), 2:45 p.m.

CLASS 5A Finals St. Paul’s Episcopal (140) vs. Pleasant Grove (11-2), 7:30 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 4 CLASS 4A Finals Gordo vs. Handley, 10 a.m.

CLASS 2A Finals Abbeville (12-1) vs.

Mars Hill Bible (12-2), 2:45 p.m.

CLASS 6A Finals Spanish Fort (11-3) vs.

Pinson Valley (11-2), 7:30 p.m.

said Easterwood. “I know that the girls in our program respect them and they look forward to what they’re going to do this season.”

Bartlett, Davidson and Cornelius were seventh-graders when Easterwood began coaching softball at Springville. For Easterwood, that season ‘seems like yesterday.’

With college talent peppered through the lineup and a strong class of senior leaders, this year’s roster has big expectations. And it all starts with offseason commitment.

“They’ve worked so hard in the weight room,” said Easterwood. “I’ve seen tremendous gains in the weight room; more so this year than ever before and then on top of that, we’re starting to do some team building.”

“They played a lot in the offseason on the travel ball circuit so they’re ready to play, it’s just a matter of putting our season together now,” he continued.

Pickleball takes hold in Trussville

Trussville residents take the pickleball courts on Nov. 28, 2020. The courts, which are open to the public, are located at 102 N Mall in Trussville. Submitted photo

The Trussville Tribune

December 2 - 8, 2020

Page 13

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Page 14

Hewitt-Trussville RB decommits from Auburn, reveals new top 5

By Erik Harris, sports editor

TRUSSVILLE — Hewitt -Trussville running back Armoni Goodwin has experienced a change in heart.

after many sleepless nights and a lot of praying, I have decided to decommit from Auburn University and open up my recruitment process. I was overwhelmed and think that I rushed into commit-

right decision.”

Goodwin, a 4-star prospect according to Rivals. com, had been committed to Auburn since May 2019.

The Hewitt-Trussville senior says there are five schools

Hewitt-Trussville running back Armoni Goodwin accepts a handoff during a home game this season. Photo by Ron Burkett

The big-play senior took to Twitter on Monday night to announce his decommitment from Auburn. He says the Tigers are still an option as he opens his recruitment back up.

“First off, I want to start off by thanking coach Malzahn, coach Cadillac and Auburn University for recruiting me and believing in me,” posted Goodwin. “But

ting, without thinking that this is biggest decision of my life right now. Auburn University is still in my Top 3. I just want to explore my options, during this short amount of time, to make sure that I make the best decision for the rest of my life. Please respect my decision because this has not been easy for me.

My trust is in God, therefore I know I will be making the

he will focus on moving forward, including Alabama, Auburn, Georgia, LSU and Florida State.

He led the Huskies with 1,424 yards rushing and 18 touchdowns on 152 carries (9.4 yard average) this season. He also had seven games with at least 100 yards rushing, as the Huskies finished up at 9-3 with a berth in the Class 7A quarterfinals.

December 2 - 8, 2020

Iron Bowl No. 1 Alabama rolls past No. 22 Auburn 42-13

By The Associated Press

TUSCLAOOSA, Ala. (AP) — Once the Iron Bowl kicked off, Nick Saban was just another passionate, heavily invested fan who was powerless to help his team win.

His team still won — big.

Mac Jones passed for 302 yards and a career-high five touchdowns, highlighted by two long ones to DeVonta Smith, and No. 1 Alabama rolled over rival No. 22 Auburn 42-13 on Saturday without Saban.

The Crimson Tide (80, No. 1 playoff rankings) continued a dominating march through a schedule of all-Southeastern Conference games even minus its six-time national champion coach on the sideline.

Saban tested positive for COVID-19 on Wednesday and watched the game feed from home, witnessing the usual array of big plays with offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian running the show.

Saban said his staff “did a marvelous job.”

“Sark did a nice job of managing things, and I sat here and felt a little helpless," he said in a postgame zoom from his home. "I could see things and yell at things and listen to (wife) Miss Terry yell downstairs.

It’s a little different. It still feels good to win.”

The result was much of the same against the Tigers (5-3), who suffered the second-most lopsided loss of Gus Malzahn's coaching tenure. The only bigger margin was Alabama's 52-21 win in the 2018 Iron Bowl.

“They’re a very, very talented team,” Malzahn said.

“We knew that. Still we came in here with the mindset that we wanted to win the game. To beat a team like that on the road, you’ve got to make plays. We didn’t do that. We didn’t play our best.

It’s obvious.”

Alabama started a string of three straight touchdowns with Jones's 66-yard touchdown to Smith, who was streaking by himself downfield after Auburn defenders bit on a double move. He later added a 58-yard catch and run on a quick slant, sprinting away from the Tigers.

Smith had seven catches for 171 yards. Najee Smith ran for 96 yards, including a 39-yard touchdown, and John Metchie III caught a pair of scoring passes.

“Not having Coach Saban is difficult and obviously he did a great job preparing all of us for a situation like this," Jones said. "It was clear we were prepared for this situation."

Bo Nix passed for 227 yards and ran for a late touchdown for the Tigers,

Sharpe carves up Spartans to grab Tribune Player of the Week honors

By Erik Harris, sports editor PINSON — The opportunity to throw the ball just wasn’t there last Friday night in the fourth-round of the Class 6 playoffs.

With constant rain showering the playing surface at Willie Adams stadium in Pinson, the third-ranked Indians turned to their running game to advance past No. 2 Mountain Brook, 27-10. In fact, Pinson Valley quarterback Zach Pyron attempted a season-low two passes with no completions in the soggy semifinal bout.

No passing, no receiving, no problem.

Junior running back Michael Sharpe Jr. provided the hot hand in a crowded backfield to capture his first Tribune Player of the Week award. He provided some serious pop for the Region 6 champions, averaging 20 yards per tote on his way to 160 big ones and two touchdowns.

Sharpe scored the first and last offensive touchdowns of the game, flashing 93 yards up the middle in the opening frame and later popping off a 39-yard effort late in the fourth.

The junior is sure to get more touches this Friday night when Pinson Valley plays for its third state crown in four years against No. 7 Spanish Fort.

but also threw two interceptions.

“It feels pretty terrible,” Nix said. “It’s not very fun.

It just hurts because of everything that I’ve put into it, everything that I’ve done to get to this moment and just come up a lot short. It’s an awful feeling, to be honest with you.”

Saban, meanwhile, couldn't talk to his team starting 90 minutes before kickoff though he still led the preparation during the week. He spoke to the media in his home's “recruiting room,” filled with Alabama memorabilia, including an elephant head on the wall and a pool table with a crimson playing surface.

“That was really hard, especially the fact that I feel great," the 69-year-old said.

THE TAKEAWAY Auburn: Managed a solid 347 total yards but had some missed opportunities. The Tigers had to settle for three long field goal attempts by Anders Carlson, who made kicks of 45 and 47 yards.

Star receiver Seth Williams, who's from nearby Cottondale, dropped a sure touchdown, too.

Alabama: Continued its strong defensive play of late, having given up 33 points in its last 18 quarters dating back to halftime of the Georgia game. Got revenge for a 48-45 loss last season.

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Pinson Valley junior Michael Sharpe Jr. runs the ball against Mountain Brook last Friday night in Willie Adams Stadium. Photo by Vickie Unlap

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