The Trussville Tribune – December 23 - 29, 2020

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By Nathan Prewett

LEEDS — A meeting of the Leeds City Council was held virtually on Monday, Dec. 14, 2020, based on guidelines from state health authorities to discourage in-person meetings due to the ongoing COVID-19 situation.

See LEEDS COUNCIL, Page 4

Springville passes ordinance prohibiting big trucks on roadway near interstate

By Terry Schrimscher

SPRINGVILLE — The Springville City Council held a special session to pass an ordinance during the Monday, Dec. 14, 2020 work session to limit certain traffic on Purple Heart Boulevard, the roadway off Highway 174, near the BP station at Interstate 59.

See SPRINGVILLE, Page 4

Wreaths Across America 2020 at Jefferson Memorial Gardens in Trussville

See WREATHS, Page 6

Trussville family receives Christmas surprise as 5-year-old son fights cancer

By Erik Harris, sports editor

TRUSSVILLE — The holidays recently got a little brighter for one Trussville family, which was featured on TODAY’S Heroes Among Us series.

See FORD, Page 5

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Reader’s Choice Awards

Early Signings

Special Insert

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50 Cents

One year later: Paighton Houston’s mom hopes to inspire others through faith

By Erica Thomas, managing editor

TRUSSVILLE — A Trussville family is continuing to lean on faith one year after their daughter disappeared, never to be seen alive again.

Paighton Houston was last seen alive on Friday, Dec. 20, 2019. Within hours, Charlaine Houston said she knew something was wrong. Christmas 2019 came and went and still, the family had no answers.

It wasn’t until Jan. 3, 2020, that Paighton’s body was recovered from a shallow grave behind a house in Hueytown.

Throughout those two weeks without their daughter, the Houston family kept praying for answers and strength.

“God has gotten me through,” Houston said. “He has truly gotten all of our family through this.”

As Christmas nears, Houston has struggled to go through the motions of decorating a tree. It’s something she said Paighton always

helped her do.

“We did the lights and the tree and it has been a little difficult this year,” said Houston. “We have a video from last year of us decorating the tree. Paighton and I were just laughing and having fun. Those memories are good memories, but they kind of take you.”

Houston said before her very public experience, she was not as outspoken as she has become. But during her

struggles she has recognized the opportunity to help others, an opportunity she can’t deny.

“A lot of times when we do things for other people it helps us,” Houston said. “I would like to do something for the community. I wasn’t able to send out thank-you notes to everybody and I felt guilty about that. But our community pulled together to support us and that meant the world to us.”

Houston said she is still

getting calls and messages of encouragement from others and many of those people she has never met. She believes there is a reason her daughter’s death has gotten so much attention.

“I’ve said it from the beginning, this is bigger than Paighton,” Houston explained. “The way everything went so viral, I’m telling you, God is moving. For whatever his reasons are, no matter what happened, God did something. There is something that God has done through this and if there’s any way that a grieving parent can come to know that through Him all things are possible, they are.”

Although it wasn’t the outcome they wanted, the family was thankful to have some answers. Even now, they have questions but Houston said by faith her family will prevail.

“She really did have a good heart,” Houston said of her daughter. “She struggled with a lot of things. But God is in control. We will get through this.”

Trussville PD offers holiday crime prevention tips and security checks From The Tribune staff reports

TRUSSVILLE — The Trussville Police Department is working to ensure the safety of residents during the Christmas holiday.

For those planning to go out of town, there are several things to consider. Officers with Trussville PD are available to offer extra patrols around homes that will be vacant during the holidays.

Anyone can request security checks by calling (205) 6552101.

“They can tell us what vehicles should be there and we will ride by and look,” said Police Chief Eric Rush. “If they see anything suspicious like a broken window, a door open or a car that doesn’t belong, they will get out and investigate.”

Also, police say it is important to make it look like you are at home. You can place timers on lights but don’t leave an outside light on while you’re gone Rush said.

“If you have your lights on during the day, that’s a good indicator that you’re gone,”

Lauren Taylor decorated for Christmas on Nov. 1, 2020.

Rush explained. “Floodlights are good at night but if they’re not on some sort of timer or motion sensor, that’s a dead giveaway.”

If you trust your neighbors, you can tell them you are leaving so they can help lookout while you’re gone.

Before you leave your home, document the make/ model and serial numbers of your property.

Rush said it is important to remember not to announce you are away on social media.

“Wait until you return to

post those fabulous family holiday pictures,” he said.

“It’s easy to forget when you’re enjoying good times with family that thieves may be watching what you post.”

Porch thefts are another concern during the holidays.

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

“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.

After the gifts are open and you are left with boxes to throw out, it is still important to be aware of criminals.

If you have boxes showing what gifts are inside your home, you could become a target.

“Don’t be so quick to leave that 70-inch, flat-screen TV box by the road,” Rush added. “You are just advertising to criminals that you have a brand new TV.” The Trussville Police Department will have extra patrols during the holidays to help keep the community safe.

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December 23 - 29, 2020 Leeds Council grants alcohol license to Buc-ee’s, new package store

WED THU

Nursing student from Clay shot and killed outside UAB student center

See WASHINGTON, Page 8

St. Vincent’s East, other area hospitals facing capacity constraints

By Erica Thomas, managing editor

BIRMINGHAM — Local hospitals are seeing an influx in patients as COVID-19 cases increase rapidly in Alabama.

On Wednesday, Dec. 16, 2020, people at St. Vincent’s East reported long waiting times in the emergency department.

See ST. VINCENT’S EAST, Page 4

St. Clair County Schools approves over $345K in supplemental COVID payments

By Erica Thomas, managing editor

ASHVILLE — The St. Clair County School District approved supplemental pay to staff to help fight COVID-19, during its Board of Education meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 15, 2020.

See ST. CLAIR SCHOOLS, Page 3

Bama Lights dazzling display in Pinson

By Erica Thomas, managing editor

PINSON — A Pinson family is once again lighting up the skies with Bama Lights, a Christmas lights show. Lisa Settembrino and K.C. Komer work on the display and great visitors to bring smiles to faces and to raise money for a good cause.

See BAMA LIGHTS, Page 5

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ACTA offering Elf the Musical online

The

Trussville Tribune 190 Main Street Trussville, AL 35173 (205) 533-8664 Scott Buttram, Publisher publisher@trussvilletribune.com Erica Thomas, Managing Editor news@trussvilletribune.com Erik Harris, Sports Editor erik.harris@trussvilletribune.com SALES STAFF Ryan Jennings, Director of Advertising & Sales Shari Moore, Account Executive Meredith White, Account Executive Lauren Taylor, Traffic Coordinator OFFICE MANAGER Jana Mathews

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December 23 - 29, 2020

From The Tribune staff reports

TRUSSVILLE — After “Elf the Musical” was canceled following only a few performances, due to coronavirus, the theater got creative.

The show is now available to watch online.

For the few performances people were able to enjoy, theater fans raved about the show.

“Hands down the best production I’ve ever seen them do,” said Tribune Publisher Scott Buttram.

Go to actatheater.com to purchase a streaming ticket for $20.

The next performance, “The Courtship of Eddie’s Father”, is set for February 2021.

Trussville Home Depot donates $1,000 to Christmas for Kids From The Tribune staff reports

TRUSSVILLE — The Trussville Home Depot is doing its part this holiday season.

The store’s manager Marshall Smith recently presented Trussville fire chief Tim Shotts with a $1,000 check to go toward the department’s Christmas for Kids program, which is designed to aid families in Trussville who need help during Christmas.

According to store rep-

Pictured from left to right: Shea Stronach, Trussville fire chief Tim Shotts, Joe Swiney, Christy Calloway (on fire truck) and Trussville Home Depot Store Manager Marshall Smith.

Submitted photo

resentatives, the Home Depot Foundation/Operation Surprise made the donation possible. Operation Surprise is designed to give Home Depot an outlet to gives back to those who serve their communities.

Anyone interested in contributing to Christmas for Kids can drop off new, unwrapped toys at any Trussville fire station or make a monetary donation by mailing a check to Trussville Fire and Rescue at 421 Cherokee Drive in Trussville.

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Local / Region

Trussville woman organizes food for first responders for 5th year

By Erica Thomas, managing editor

TRUSSVILLE — For the fifth year in a row, a Trussville woman is showing first responders how appreciative the community is for their service.

Beverly Elders Cross gathers members of the community every year, to feed the Trussville Police Department and Trussville Fire and Rescue, for the first three weekends in December. Cross said it all started after she realized the men and women in blue were not always appreciated as much as she saw fit.

“I am so excited we made it five years,” said Cross. “I just wanted to do something to let our local heroes know that we appreciated them and all they do for us every day.”

Some local restaurants have also donated to the cause

and some local businesses have also donated money to help purchase items. Cross said she goes to the grocery store every Friday night to purchase anything that is needed to complete the meal.

The food is delivered to the Trussville Police Training Facility at City Hall on the first three Saturdays of December.

Along with the positive feeling of giving back, Cross said

she has met great people along the way. The kind of people who think of others before themselves.

The weekend of Dec. 19 is the last weekend of the initiative. Families of first responders were invited to join them for a meal.

For more information or to help out next year, you can contact Cross through Facebook Messenger.

St. Clair County sheriff graduates from leadership academy From The Tribune staff reports

ST. CLAIR COUNTY — St. Clair County Sheriff Billy J. Murray recently graduated from the Department of Homeland Security Leadership Academy.

The Federal Law Enforcement Training Center has collaborated with the National Sheriff’s Association to hold the academy in Glynco, Ga. According to an announce-

St. Clair County Sheriff Billy J. Murray

ment from the sheriff’s office, law enforcement executives from various law enforcement agencies from across the United States gathered together to explore contemporary issues

impacting homeland security, leadership, and other issues impacting the law enforcement profession.

“The partnership between the National Sheriff’s Association, Department of Homeland Security, and the Federal Law enforcement Center in Glynco, Georgia offers a first class leadership academy,“ said Murray in a statement.

“The level of training offered will certainly assist a law enforcement exec

Don’t You Just Love Christmas?

From The Tribune staff reports

TRUSSVILLE — “Don’t You Just Love Christmas” a five-day community event, was a success in the Trussville Entertainment District (TED).

The Trussville Downtown Merchants Association, along with The Trussville Tribune, came together to bring the musical production to families in the Birmingham-metro, and to bring smiles to the faces of children this holiday season.

Steve Pennington, a helper of Santa Claus, scheduled appearances each night this week from the big man himself. Santa Claus and Friends took photos with children and entertained the masses from the stage in downtown.

Pennington said the coronavirus pandemic has made it challenging for Santa to make

regular appearances. Social distancing and masks are encouraged during the event.

the stage and keep his spirit alive,” Pennington said.

Santa Claus and Friends

The Christmas event is one of few this year.

“I have been doing musical events in Birmingham for the last 10 years and COVID has shut that down so this will allow Santa to return to

hope the event can become a tradition in the heart of Trussville.

“I think it will really be nice and I think it is something we can expand on in seasons to come,” Pennington added.

they could be exposed doing their job. So, we appreciate them.”

The total cost of the supplements is over $345,000 and will be distributed system-wide.

The board also approved an additional 10 work days for teachers impacted by ex-

posure to COVID-19.

“We wanted to do that to show that if they have to go home for additional days after being exposed at work, we would provide that to them,” Howard added.

The federal government has already approved 10 work days to teachers nationwide.

St. Clair Schools From front page

Superintendent Mike Howard said all full-time staff received $300 for sanitizing their work areas before leaving for Christmas break.

“It shows our staff in St. Clair County that we truly care about them and we understand the hardships that they’ve faced during this pandemic,” Howard said.

“We want them to know that we value the fact that they come to work everyday with COVID looming over their heads and the possibility

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Magnolia Elementary students raise money for family in need From The Tribune staff reports

TRUSSVILLE — A second-grade class at Magnolia Elementary School raised over $150 to help a family in need this Christmas.

Mrs. Gamble’s class held a virtual yard sale in the style of Amazon. It was called “Gamblezon” and it was more than a charity.

“This cross-curricular activity met standards in math, social studies, and character education,” said teacher Gina Gamble.

Each student made a slide show of their items for sale. Two other classes, Mrs. Durham’s class and Ms.

Leeds Council From front page

A meeting originally scheduled for Dec. 7 was canceled because of the COVID pandemic, according to the city’s website. Items from the canceled meeting were carried over to last night’s meeting.

The council held a public hearing on renewing the city’s contract with Spectrum, as well as consideration of granting alcohol licenses to a package store in Leeds and to the developing Buc-ee’s location.

The hearing also involved several locations on Parkway Dr., Tramway Ct., and Beech St., being considered nuisances to the city.

A property owner on Parkway Dr. was on the call saying that he would adhere to the council’s guidance on improving the property and it was decided later in the regular to give him 15 days before an abatement would be ordered.

The council granted alcohol licenses to two stores, including a recently established grocer called Mountainview Package Store at 8525 Whitfield Ave. Mayor David Miller said that a routine background check was performed, with “no adverse findings” before last night’s meeting.

Owner Virginia Abu Al

Wolfe’s class, then shopped the online sale.

“Gamblezon workers had to check their emails for sales, then mark their slide-

show items as sold,” Gamble explained. “Next, the students had to ‘package’ the sale items and ‘deliver’ them to school for touch-free delivery.”

Maati and her mother, who is also her business partner, were on the call to speak to the council. She said that they originally hail from New York City and expressed excitement to bring business to the city.

“We are every excited to get this started and bring new business and something really exciting to the city of Leeds,” she said. “We would love to bring something fun and interesting and new to the city of Leeds and to the place that we moved to and really love living in.”

The council voted unanimously to grant them the license. Later the council agreed to grant a license to Buc-ee’s, which continues to be developed in the city.

that we’d pay,” Miller said.

“This would authorize the city to amend our payment schedule accordingly.”

The decision to pass the amendment was made unanimously.

Afterward, the council voted in favor of conveying property to Jefferson County as part of the 1998 unification agreement. The property is the sewer pump station, which had not been included in a transfer of property then.

The county plans to make upgrades to the station.

In other business the council: • Renewed the city’s contract with Spectrum franchise, • Authorized a charity drive by city employees for needy families, • Purchased several lots at Cedar Grove Cemetery, • Declared a fire department vehicle surplus and authorized its sale, • Declared property on 7114 Tramway Ct to be a nuisance and ordered its abatement, • Declared property on 1332 Beech St to be a nuisance and also ordered its abatement, and • Approved a refund request from an applicant who overpaid in taxes.

An amendment was made to Ordinance 2020-06-02 concerning principal payments for a USDA project regarding paving in the city.

“What this is that the city would like to make larger payments than is required by the terms of the loan agreement to reduce the amount of interest

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December 23 - 29, 2020

Springville

weight limit because the road leading into the adjoining residential area was not originally paved for traffic and is not strong enough to support regular heavy traffic.

After a lengthy discussion, they passed the ordinance as written which restricts large trucks with more than two axels.

The penalty for a violation of the order can be up to a $500 fine or as much as three months in jail. The new ordinance was passed unanimously and will be posted at City Hall for five days before becoming law.

Councilmember David Vinson, who represents District 2, proposed the creation of a city personnel board. City Attorney Charlie Waldrep offered some insight into how other cities have created similar boards. The proposal will be addressed in a future meeting of the council.

Bylaws for the proposed

Springville Youth Council were presented to Waldrep for review. Once the bylaws are up to standard, the council is expected to vote on approving the project designed to engage local area students in city leadership projects.

Mayor Thomas proposed creating a full-time position for an Assistant City Clerk to train under Lynn Porter. Councilmember Sherry Reaves suggested the new role could also include the proposed Executive Assistant to the Mayor position currently under consideration by the council but noted they might involve too much of a workload for one person.

In other business, Director of Public Works Earl Peoples requested permission to spend money from sewer fee revenues to pump grease from wastewater lift stations.

The council agreed to the expenditure from the existing funds.

The next meeting on the council will be Monday night, December 21. The December 28 work session was canceled and the January 4 regular meeting will include a work session prior to the regular session.

University of Alabama at Birmingham’s nursing school to help fill the gaps.

The hospital, which already has enlisted retired nurses to assist with care, will use faculty members and graduate students, all licensed registered nurses, to fill outpatient care teams. Undergraduate students will serve as technicians and assist with vaccine distribution, the hospital said in a statement.

Almost 50 of the new workers are faculty members, while more than 70 are nursing students. The program is meant to assist nurses, not replace them, the hospital said.

Statistics compiled by bamatracker.com show the state on Wednesday added

more than 4,100 new cases of COVID-19, and the virus has killed almost 4,200 people statewide. The Alabama Hospital Association said staffing shortages have worsened as cases increase, partly because seriously ill COVID-19 patients require extra care.

While COVID-19 causes only mild or moderate symptoms for most people, it can be deadly for people who have other serious health problems.

Health care workers and a few others including elderly veterans have begun receiving vaccines to guard against the illness, but health officials say most members of the general public won’t begin receiving vaccinations for weeks.

From front page

The ordinance, requested by council member Herbert Toles, was in response to a recent influx of dangerous traffic flowing into nearby neighborhoods.

“Big trucks have been coming through and getting up on the sidewalks and tearing down signs,” said Toles.

“It’s a mess.”

Councilman Toles represents District 1 which includes the neighborhood most affected by the large trucks.

The new ordinance was prompted by the recent increase in traffic through the neighborhood and recent incidences where large trucks have gotten onto the narrow roads and have been unable to turn around. One recent event required considerable city resources to remedy.

“We had to have the fire department and the police over there wasting six hours trying to get that 18-wheeler out,” added Toles. “He didn’t have a sign and got in there and tore everything up trying to get out.”

The council debated on further restricting trucks by

St. Vincent’s East From front page

Hospital President Suzannah Campbell said St. Vincent’s East isn’t alone in the growing problem.

“Due to the COVID-19 surge in our community, our hospital, along with all other area hospitals, are facing capacity constraints,” said Campbell.

The surge is another reason Campbell said it is important for people to take the virus seriously.

“Now, more than ever, we need our community’s help in combating this pandemic,” Campbell added. “We implore you to practice social distancing, wear a mask and practice good hand hygiene to help us combat the spread.”

UAB Hospital is also seeing an increase in staff absences. The hospital announced Wednesday that it is bringing in more than 120 students and faculty members from the

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Argo receives $3,000 for annual Christmas for Kids program

Bama Lights From front page

Every year, the display gets bigger. This year, there are around 340,000 lights.

The lights are turned on at 5 p.m. each night and are turned off at 9:30 p.m.

Settembrino and Komer begin putting up lights on Sept. 1 and they are turned

Bama Lights Christmas Display. Photo from drone video by James Nicholas.

Bama Lights Christmas Display. Photo from drone video by James Nicholas.

on Thanksgiving Night. The last night for the light display is Christmas night. This year is a little different because of coronavirus. There is no walking around allowed. Cars must pass through without parking as well.

The display is synchronized to music that can be heard on the radio, on station 88.1 FM. Komer learned how to set up the show by watching YouTube videos. He used approximately 21 miles of extension cords. This is the family’s 10th year of putting together the light show. It all

Ford

From front page

The Bertram’s have been fighting alongside their 5-year-old son, Ford, since mid-February when he was diagnosed with cancer. He is currently undergoing his final phase of treatment.

During a special Christmas parade outside Children’s of Alabama, where Ford gets his treatment, the family was surprised with a truck full of presents for Ford

Page 5

started with 35,000 lights, but Komer has built more displays and added more lights every year.

ARGO — A few Argo businesses have come together to help this holiday season.

On Monday night, the Argo City Council was presented a $3,000 check to go toward the city’s annual Christmas for Kids charity.

Michael Hicks was on hand to deliver the donation during the council’s final meeting of the year.

“With everything going on this year, I know there are a lot of families that are out of work and Christmas for Kids is probably stretched as far as it could ever be stretched,” said Hicks to the council.

He said five business owners, including himself, recently agreed to buy $1,500 worth of T-shirts to sell with all of the proceeds going to Christmas for Kids. According to Hicks, those business include Hilltop Farms, Massey Asphalt Paving, Buckeye Grocery, Argo Hardware and ABC Towing.

“There were also some cash donations that came in,”

added Hicks.

Shirts are still available for purchase at Argo Hardware and Hilltop Farms. They sell for $18 apiece. Mayor Betty Bradley says 16 kids have benefited from the program this year.

In other business, the Argo City Council also: • Canceled the annual

Christmas parade, which was postponed due to weather last weekend.

• Voted to allow the use of city facilities for gun safety training.

• Passed a motion to hire Newman Septic Tank and Excavating Services to repair a property at 8885 Gadsden Highway.

The Betram family enjoys a special Christmas parade at Children's of Alabama in December of 2020. NBC News screengrab

in one year, the Bertram family faced the unthinkable: their 5-year-old son was diagnosed with cancer, changing their lives overnight. But thanks to the support of their community, they’ve overcome every single challenge.”

Ford’s mother and father, Amelia and Matt, have been with him each step of the way.

“During the first month (of treatment), he was like a different child,” said Amelia.

“He went from a kid that was 100 miles per hour to the

kid who had gained so much weight and was so swollen that we were having to carry him,” said Matt.

But you can’t keep a good man down, especially when he’s built Ford tough.

“This 5-year-old kid is bumping and grinding every day with a smile on his face and you can’t slow him down,” said Matt, a paramedic for the Center Point Fire District and for the Mountain Brook Fire Department. “Just to see that resiliency is amazing.”

This year, donations will go to Magic Moments, an organization that grants non-medical moments to children with chronic life-threatening illnesses in Alabama. A donation box is placed under the scrolling sign. You can also donate at PayPal.me/ BamaLights.

The address of Bama Lights is 8333 West Hill Rd. Pinson, AL 35126.

Drone video by James Nicholas can be viewed in this story on www.TrussvilleTribune.com

Bama Lights Christmas Display. Photo from drone video by James Nicholas.

and other pediatric patients in Birmingham.

As Ford tore open his presents, including the much-anticipated skateboard, TODAY reporter Sheinelle Jones announced to the family one final surprise: a $25,000 donation to Children’s of Alabama.

“This family, I promise you, will stay in my heart for the rest of my career,” said Jones during the NBC News broadcast. “As if the pandemic wasn’t enough to deal with

By Erik Harris, sports editor

Argo councilman Michael Hicks (left) accepts a check from Shannon Venable (middle) and Corky Massey (right) during a council meeting on Dec. 14, 2020. The $3,000 check goes toward the city’s annual Christmas for Kids program. Photo by Erik Harris

The Trussville Tribune

Page 6

Trussville PD makes arrest, recover stolen vehicle after Flock Safety hit From The Tribune staff reports

TRUSSVILLE — The Trussville Police Department recovered a stolen vehicle and seized drugs after a Flock Safety camera alerted them to a possible crime.

The incident happened on Thursday, Dec. 10, 2020.

Officers made a traffic stop after receiving the Flock hit on a Honda Accord that was reported stolen. The driver, Christopher Wayne

Christopher Wayne Stewart.

Photo: Jefferson County Jail.

Stewart, 28, was taken into custody.

During a search of the vehicle, officers reported finding marijuana, crystal methamphetamine and CBD. Stewart was charged with unlawful possession of a controlled substance, unlawful possession of marijuana and receiving stolen property, fourth-degree. He was booked into the Jefferson County Jail on bonds totaling $11,000.

Wreaths From front page

By Erica Thomas, managing editor

TRUSSVILLE — The 2020 Wreaths Across America in Trussville was a success at Jefferson Memorial Gardens on Saturday, Dec. 19.

The American Legion SSG Michael W. Hosey Post 205 Clay-Trussville and Three Hots and a Cot came together to honor those who fought for American freedoms.

The ceremony at Jefferson Memorial Gardens began with the sound of cannons fired by the Alabama Artillery Group. Following the demonstration came a moment of silence. Taps was played on bagpipes, while veterans and active duty personnel stood stoically around the Veterans’ section of the cemetery.

Charge upgraded to capital murder in shooting death of 11-year-old Troy Ellis, of Trussville From The Tribune staff reports

TRUSSVILLE — The man charged in the shooting death of Troy Ellis, 11, of Trussville, is now charged with capital murder, according to jail records.

Joshua Stewart Burks, of Mobile, was originally charged with reckless manslaughter in connection to the Friday, May 1, 2020 shooting.

The shooting left Troy Ellis dead and his father, Obed Ellis, wounded. Obed Ellis is a football coach at Mortimer Jordan High School.

The sheriff’s office initially said the shooting was

accidental but after an investigation, detectives presented evidence to the District Attorney’s Office and the DA determined an arrest warrant was justified. A Grand Jury

decided the charge should be capital murder of a person under the age of 14.

The boy and his father were on a turkey hunt with a group when the boy was killed on Friday, May 1, 2020.

Burks’ attorney, Jonathan McCardle, said the shooting was an accident and he does not believe criminal charges should have been brought against his client. Burks, a former teacher, is a U.S. Marine veteran and amputee.

Burks was booked into the Jefferson County Jail on Dec. 18 on the new charge and was released on a $60,000 bond the same day, according to jail records.

December 23 - 29, 2020

Trussville Fire and Rescue flew a large United States flag with a ladder truck. Dozens of community members, including Trussville Mayor Buddy Choat, surrounded the ceremony as wreaths were placed for all branches of the military. As the procession made its way to place the wreaths, it was surrounded by members of the Marine Corps League and American Legion SSG Michael W. Hosey Post 205.

USMC LtCol Troy Cable addressed the crowd, reminding the crowd about the sacrifices made.

“The freedoms we enjoy

today have not come without a price,” said Cable.

Boy Scouts presented wreaths to Gold Star Families.

The five Gold Star families were representing the following men who lost their lives: Jason Stegall, who attended Hewitt-Trussville High School, was killed on Dec. 14, 2009. He was awarded a Bronze Star and a Purple Heart. He was two months and 14 days short of his 31st birthday.

Michael Wesley Hosey was killed on Sept. 17, 2011.

He was a student at ClayChalkville High School. He received the Bronze Star. He was 27.

William Z. VanOsdol was killed on Aug. 19, 2009.

He was awarded a Bronze Star and a Purple Heart. He was 23 years old. He was six days short of his 24th birthday.

Kelly Stevin Prewitt was killed in action on April 16, 2003. He was a student of the Cathedral of the Cross in Center Point. He was awarded the Purple Heart. He was 24.

Jonathon Millican was killed in action on Jan. 20, 2007. He attended Locust Fork High School. He was awarded the Silver Star and Purple Heart. He was 20 years old.

Wreaths Across America is a national project that coordinates wreath-laying ceremonies at over 1,600 locations across the United States. The mission is to place a wreath on every veteran’s grave throughout the nation.

Trussville Mayor Buddy Choat said he is proud to know his city is a place where

people come to honor veterans.

“I think it’s special,” said Choat. “We can do our part to honor those who have given us the freedom to be here today and to be in Trussville, Alabama is just symbolic of what it means not only to our city but to our country.”

Choat said he is honored to be able to take part in the event each year.

Beginning in 2021, the American Legion Post 205 will take over the organization of the annual event. Clay Mayor Charles Webster was also in attendance and said he is thankful to have such a wonderful organization in his city.

“Since we got the American Legion Post 205 in Clay, it is great to have them take this over,” said Webster.

“We’re excited about the city of Clay being a part of this and thankful for that. We plan on supporting it for many years.”

Wayne O’dell, veteran and president of the Birmingham Fleet Reserve Association (branch 112) and spokesperson for Three Hots and A Cot, was presented a plaque for years of organizing Wreaths Across America.

Local American Legion Post Commander Tony Berenotto said without O’dell, the event wouldn’t have been possible.

Also honored, was Eddie Seal with Jefferson Memorial and Rich Cislak with Three Hots and a Cot. Those at the ceremony were masked and practice social distancing.

You can see video and a photo gallery in his story on www.TrussvilleTribune.com.

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December 23 - 29, 2020

The Trussville Tribune

Page 7

Trussville City Council passes proclamation on human trafficking awareness, tables facility usage agreement

By Erica Thomas, managing editor

TRUSSVILLE — The Trussville City Council met five days early for its last meeting of the month, on Thursday, Dec. 17, 2020. The council held its workshop and meeting on the same night.

The council passed a proclamation establishing that January 2021 will be Human Trafficking Awareness Month in Trussville.

Julia Meyers, with the Junior League of Birmingham, addressed the council about the importance of enhancing public welfare and awareness of human trafficking. Meyers said human trafficking is a form of modern-day slavery.

“Human trafficking is a $150 billion industry, globally,” said Meyers. “But did you know that Americans are the number one consumer?

We are the problem. America is the problem so, we have to do something about that.”

Homeland security estimates human trafficking is a $110 million industry every year in the Birmingham-metro.

This is the third year the city of Trussville has supported Human Trafficking Awareness. The city also partners with the Child Trafficking Solutions Project by declaring Trussville a “trafficking free zone.”

NUISANCE PROPERTY The council unanimously passed a resolution to abate a building on Snake Hill Road.

The property, at 220 Snake Hill Road, has been a problem since June of 2015, according to City Inspector Scott Mann.

“Someone from that property came to pull a fence

permit and ended up doing a full-house remodel and an addition on the back side of the house,” said Mann.

Mann said the city put a stop order on the work but it resumed in 2018 without the owner obtaining a permit.

Inspectors said violations found at the property included unsafe electrical wiring, no guardrails on stairs, and an unsafe pool structure. Code violations cited included tall grass and vehicles parked in the yard.

No one representing the property attended the meeting to respond to the city’s allegations.

The resolution authorizes the city to revoke a certificate of occupancy, board up the building, enter the building, make repairs or demolish the building and “take any other actions to protect the health and safety of the public.”

FACILITY USAGE AGREEMENT In other business, the council tabled an agreement between the city and Trussville City Schools on the use of facilities. The reciprocal agreement states that schools have priority use of school facilities and the city has priority use of city facilities. However, the two entities would

agree to “memorialize their longstanding informal reciprocal use agreement in writing to facilitate better understanding of each party’s role in the continued relationship between the parties and to organize, to promote, and to conduct programs and activities that further the education, health and general welfare of the community.”

Discussions of a formal agreement came about after representatives for the Trussville Lacrosse teams were denied usage of Husky Field.

According to the school system’s website, Hewitt-Trussville Stadium is a state-of-the-art, $14.6 million facility. Husky Field has artificial turf, which cost about $400,000. Those asking for use of the stadium said since the city of Trussville spent thousands of taxpayer dollars to build the stadium, the city should have the right to allow teams in the city to use it. However, it was unclear who makes decisions concerning the use of Husky Field because there was no written agreement on the matter, according to city leaders.

Councilor Perry Cook requested any third-party language in the agreement draft be removed. City attorneys

The Trussville City Council passed a proclamation establishing that January 2021 will be Human Trafficking Awareness Month in Trussville. Representatives from the Junior League of Birmingham met with councilors on Thursday, Dec. 17, 2020.

will rework the agreement and present it to the council at their next meeting in January. After the city council approves an agreement, it will be sent to the Trussville City Schools Board of Education for review and approval.

INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT BOARD The city’s Industrial Development Board (IDB) recently requested to amend its articles of incorporation to change its board size from nine members to seven members. The council approved the move during Thursday’s meeting.

Smith Roofing LLC will purchase a piece of IDB property after the council passed a resolution authorizing the sale. The property is located within the city’s Industrial Park.

TRUSSVILLE REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY In other business, the city passed a resolution confirming the Trussville Redevelop-

ment Authority’s (TRA) tax status. The resolution states that TRA is a public corporation “established by the city under its authority” therefore all real and personal property held by TRA should be tax-exempt.

The resolution came at the request of the Jefferson County Tax Assessor’s Office.

OTHER BUSINESS The council voted to annex a parcel of property at 303 Mobile Avenue into the city of Trussville.

As part of the consent agenda, the city declared various City Hall assets as surplus. The items included an electric typewriter, a calculator machine and a shredder that are no longer in use.

Also in the consent agenda, the council approved the hiring of the city’s first corrections officers. Police Chief Eric Rush said the hirings of three people for the jail will mean more officers will be available for patrol. The new

corrections officers are Jonathan White, Adenike Bates and Jasmine McCain.

The police department also hired Tony Armstrong as a police officer.

Butch Motley was appointed to the city’s Parks & Recreation Board, replacing Councilor Jaime Anderson.

Motley’s term will expire Feb. 28, 2024.

The city council also approved the hiring of Janice Gallagher as a part-time Front Desk Assistant.

Trussville Fire & Rescue Paramedic Matthew Panepento was promoted to Lieutenant. There will be a pinning ceremony for the promotion in January.

Before adjourning, the council voted to move Thursday evening workshops from 5:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. The change will go into effect in January.

The next City Council meeting will be held on Tuesday, Jan. 12, 2021.

The Trussville Tribune

Page 8

CRIME STOPPERS: Trussville woman wanted in credit card theft case Latonya Sheree Copeland is wanted in JEFFERSON COUNTY on felony warrants charging her with Theft of Property 3rd Degree (Credit or Debit Card) and Fraudulent Use of a Stolen Credit Card. Wanted as of 12/17/2020

From Crime Stoppers of Metro Alabama

Latonya sheree copeland If you have information, call Crime Stoppers of Metro

Name: Alias: Gender: DOB: Height: Hair:

COPELAND, LATONYA SHEREE LATANYA SHEREE DAVIS Race: Female Black Age: 12/12/1975 45 Weight: 5ft2in 130 Eyes: Black Brown

Alabama at (205) 254-7777.

You will remain anonymous

and could be eligible for a cash reward.

Groups want Birmingham Water Works Board members who will stop shutoffs From The Tribune staff reports

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (AP) — A group of civic organizations is asking Birmingham-area leaders to appoint new board members to the city’s water utility who will stop shutting off water for customers behind on their bills.

The organizations are asking for Birmingham Water Works Board members who will resume a moratorium on shutoffs for overdue bills and set up 12-month income-driven repayment plans instead of shorter repayment plans over three to six months.

The board resumed water shutoffs in October after an earlier pause because of the coronavirus pandemic. There were more 12,000 overdue accounts owing more than $7 million at that time, WB-

MA-TV reports, although some customers have since caught up.

Rob Burton, executive director of SWEET Alabama, said charity groups can’t afford to cover the overdue bills. The group promotes the sustainable use of energy, land and water.

“A lot of our children are taking school virtually and people are working at home so cutting off service to water in our home while our children do not have access to their public spaces and their schools, it’s going to further negatively impact our children,” Burton said.

All nine board members’ terms expire at the end of the year, according to the board’s website. The Birmingham City Council appoints four members and Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin appoints two members. The Jefferson County Mayor’s Association, the Shelby County Commission and the Blount County Commission each appoint one member. The utility provides drinking water to more than 600,000 customers in five counties.

Burton said a short-term repayment plan can be like paying three water bills in a month for a resident.

Burton said the board has not acted despite multiple meetings.

In November, the board of directors voted to approve budgets that will not result in an increase in customers’ water rates for 2021.

Washington From front page

From the Tribune staff reports

BIRMINGHAM — Police in Birmingham are investigating after a person was shot an killed outside of the Hill Student Center at UAB on Thursday night.

Friday morning, Jefferson County Deputy Chief Coroner Bill Yates identified the victim as Destiny Danielle Washington, 20. Washington was a 2018 graduate of Clay-Chalkville High School. She was completing classes at Lawson State through UAB’s Joint Admission Program with dreams of becoming a nurse to help others.

At approximately 9:40 p.m., South Precinct officers were dispatched to Children’s Hospital at 1601 5th Avenue South on report of an adult gunshot victim who arrived by way of private vehicle. Children’s Hospital staff pronounced the victim deceased, according to Officer Truman Fitzgerald.

“The preliminary investigation suggests the victim was shot inside of a vehicle while in the parking lot of the Hill University Center at 1400 University Boulevard,” Fitzgerald said.

“The victim was then driven to Children’s Hospital by way of private vehicle for emergency medical care. Detectives are working to discover a motive for the shooting.”

In a statement released Friday morning, UAB said the shooting is believed to have occurred during an arranged meeting to sell headphones.

“We are devastated that tragedy hit the UAB family overnight when a student lost her life after being shot in the parking lot outside the Hill Student Center,” UAB said in a statement.

“Police believe this occurred during a meeting arranged to sell headphones. Because this is an ongoing investigation, and out of respect for the victim and her family, we are not sharing additional information at this time. However, we will when it is appropriate. In the mean-

December 23 - 29, 2020 time, please keep the victim and her family and friends in your thoughts and prayers.”

If there is anyone who has additional information pertaining to the case, please contact the B.P.D. Homicide Unit @ 205-254-1764 or Crime Stoppers @ 205-254- 7777.

Washington had “so much potential,” Clay-Chalkville High School principal Michael Lee said Friday morning. She was an outstanding student and athlete for the Cougars.

“The news of Destiny’s passing breaks my heart,” Lee said.

Lee said this type of news was his worst nightmare.

“She was an outstanding student who excelled in AP classes while she attended CCHS,” Lee said. “She was also a member of our volleyball and basketball teams. As great of a student and athlete, as she was, she was an even better person who genuinely cared for others.”

Brandee Crenshaw, Washington’s sister, said Washington was close to being certified as a Registered Nurse.

“My sister was a smart, beautiful Black queen,” Crenshaw said. “She was about to be a certified RN in May 2021.

Destiny loved her family more than anything & her nephew Arion the most. My sister was the most helpful & outgoing person you would meet. She was sweet as pie & didn’t bother anyone.”

Crenshaw went onto say her sister did not deserve what happened to her.

Washington’s former teacher, Melanie Gaines, taught Washington at Clay-Chalkville High School. She had her for AP English when she was in 11th grade and had her in the National Honors Society in 11th and 12th grade. When Gaines opened Facebook Friday morning and saw the story of her passing, she said she couldn’t believe what she was reading.

“It’s such a tragedy for her family,” Gaines said. “As a teacher, your students are always your kids, no matter how many years pass. It’s always hard.”

Gaines has been an educator for 19 years. She is now the Assistant Principal at McAdory High School. Many students come and go, but Gaines said Washington was one of those that stuck with her. In fact, she said she ran into Washington about a year and a half ago when she was at the grocery store.

“Destiny was one of those students that always tried to help out,” Gaines said. “She is one of those that always stayed with you.”

Looking back, Gaines said she always knew there was something special about Washington.

“It was her resolve to be successful,” Gaines explained.

“She knew what she wanted to do and worked hard to be able to go to college and go into this nursing program. She never wavered on what she wanted.”

Gaines said she hopes people are able to remember the “sweet girl and hard worker.”

“I think anytime somebody that you are close to or knew is killed in such a way, it’s not something that’s easy to deal with, but remembering the good times they had and focusing on the things that were good about her and the successes that she had is important,” Gaines added. “Just remember the light that she had.”

Carlos Londarrius Stephens.

Photo: Birmingham Police Department.

22-year-old Carlos Londarrius Stephens, of Alabaster, Alabama, is charged with capital murder in the death of Washington.

Stephens was taken into custody after turning himself in on Saturday, Dec. 19, 2020, police said.

Light up the sky 2020 is over!!!

Com shop e firew our orks Indoo r Clim ! a te Con

trolled

’S J M

DISCOUNT WAREHOUSE 7 0 5 4 H i g h w a y 11 Tr u s s v i l l e • 2 0 5 - 5 0 8 - 5 2 6 1

The Trussville Tribune

December 23 - 29, 2020

Page 9

FOOD SAFETY: Latest Jefferson County restaurant scores From The Tribune staff reports

The Jefferson County Department of Health regularly inspects establishments in Jefferson County where food is prepared or sold for human consumption. Two types of inspections, scored and alternative (non-scored), are performed throughout the year.

The following is a list of the most recent scored inspections: Permit

Score

Name

STEAK N SHAKE #60021817 MONTGOMERY HWY S HOOVER 35244 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/15/20 CRESTWOOD COFFEE COMPANY 5512 19200 99 CRESTWOOD BLVD BIRMINGHAM 35212 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/15/20 PASQUALES 215 FIELDSTOWN 1776 98 RD GARDENDALE 35071 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/15/20 TACO BELL # 29140523 FIELDSTOWN 15938 98 RD GARDENDALE 35071 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/15/20 PIKE ROAD DISCOUNT 2800 PIKE 21934 96 RD BIRMINGHAM 35208 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/14/20 SUSHI VILLAGE 592 FIELDSTOWN 19971 95 RD GARDENDALE 35071 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/14/20 FAMILY DOLLAR STORE #4152100 21363 100 PINSON VALLEY RD TARRANT 35217 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/14/20 MORRIS CHEVRON 8113 OLD 21265 98 HWY 31 MORRIS 35116 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/14/20 POPEYES LOUISANA KITCHEN 23235 96 #25022233 BESSEMER RD BIRMINGHAM 35208 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/14/20 SAMS CLUB BAKERY #47243053 11822 98 JOHN HAWKINS PKWY HOOVER 35244 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/14/20 YOUNGS GROCERY 9119 E COMMER21631 96 CIAL AVE TRAFFORD 35172 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/14/20 LOGANS ROADHOUSE # 4793387 26673 94 LOWERY PKWY FULTONDALE 35068 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/14/20 SAMS CLUB #4724 MEAT MARKET 3053 JOHN HAWKINS 11824 100 PKWY HOOVER 35244 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/14/20 WINN-DIXIE #458 BAKERY 1721 10079 98 DECATUR HWY N FULTONDALE 35068 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/14/20 SAMS CLUB DEMO KITCHEN #47243053 JOHN HAWKINS 11821 98 PKWY HOOVER 35244 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/14/20 23152

85

TRI-STAR FITNESS 438 DECATUR HWY GARDENDALE 35071 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/14/20 MANCHU WOK 2000 RIVER24472 94 CHASE GALLERIA BIRMINGHAM 35244 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/11/20 10TH AVENUE DELI 4500 RICHARD ARRINGTON JR BLVD N 21906 91 BIRMINGHAM 35212 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/11/20 J TI Z SMOOTHIE N COFFEE BAR 1521 PINSON VALLEY PKWY 25267 96 BIRMINGHAM 35217 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/11/20 FIREHOUSE SUBS 181 MAIN 22029 92 ST HOOVER 35244 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/11/20 SUBWAY #309781329 WALKER CHAP18533 97 EL RD FULTONDALE 35068 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/11/20 EDGARS BAKERY 180 MAIN 14388 94 ST W HOOVER 35244 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/11/20 SAMS CLUB # 8247 GROCERY & PRODUCE 201 LAKESHORE 15826 95 PKWY HOMEWOOD 35209 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/10/20 BAMA HEALTH FOODS 1923 BESSE24692 98 MER RD BIRMINGHAM 35208 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/10/20 SAMS CLUB #8247 MEAT & ROTISSERIE 201 LAKESHORE 10100 99 PKWY HOMEWOOD 35209 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/10/20 SUBWAY 2304 JOHN HAWKINS 18255 95 PKWY HOOVER 35244 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/10/20 FOODLAND #448 – DELI/BAK24539 96 ERY 1014 MAIN ST GARDENDALE 35071 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/10/20 GARDENDALE FUEL DEPOTCITGO 2408 DECATUR HWY 16936 100 GARDENDALE 35071 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/10/20 FULTONDALE SHELL 1709 DECATUR 21707 94 HWY FULTONDALE 35068 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/10/20 MCDONALDS # 106662201 BESSE25063 92 MER RD BIRMINGHAM 35208 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/10/20 KENTUCKY FRIED CHICKEN 1653 22656 95 CENTER POINT RD CENTER POINT 35215 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/10/20 ZAXBYS 1548 MONTCLAIR ROAD 18236 96 BIRMINGHAM 35210 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/10/20 24920

95

SHADES CREST SHELL / SNEAKY PETES 3401 SOUTH SHADES 24850 88 CREST RD HOOVER 35244 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/10/20 JACKS # 2102259 MT OLIVE RD 15870 96 MOUNT OLIVE 35117 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/10/20 YWCA DAYCARE 309 23RD ST 10485 95 N BIRMINGHAM 35203 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/10/20 FOOD OUTLET COST +10% – MAR20749 99 KET 2096 SPRINGDALE LN TARRANT 35217 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/10/20 BIG B 4019 VANDERBILT RD 25265 97 BIRMINGHAM 35217 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/10/20 HOLIDAY INN (RESTAURANT) 2901 18300 87 JOHN HAWKINS PKWY HOOVER 35244 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/10/20 RUTHS CAFE 4012 24TH ST N 19888 92 BIRMINGHAM 35207 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/10/20 PIGGLY WIGGLY MEAT & SEA7206 96 FOOD 415 CALDWELL DR WARRIOR 35180 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/09/20 ROGERS QUICK STOP 6784 OLD 14944 98 SPRINGVILLE RD CLAY 35126 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/09/20 FULTONDALE CHEVRON 620 DECA16669 96 TUR HWY FULTONDALE 35068 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/09/20 CIRCLE K #27238036408 OLD 21726 90 SPRINGVILLE RD PINSON 35126 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/09/20 ANNIE MAES WING STOP 9943 24410 98 COOPER DR WARRIOR 35180 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/09/20 RICKEY JS BAKERY 6408 OLD 13105 100 SPRINGVILLE RD PINSON 35126 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/09/20 WINN-DIXIE #458 GROCERY 1721 10078 100 DECATUR HWY N FULTONDALE 35068 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/09/20 WARRIOR DISCOUNT STORE 9999 24394 98 CORNER SCHOOL RD WARRIOR 35180 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/09/20 BROTHERS FOOD MART LLC 3833 18234 97 EASTLAKE BLVD BIRMINGHAM 35217 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/09/20 MR. SHARKS FISH & CHICKEN 1837 20487 89 MONTGOMERY HWY HOOVER 35244 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/08/20 MOES SOUTHWEST GRILL #6462655 23089 99 FIELDSTOWN RD GARDENDALE 35071 Smoke Free: Y Date: 12/08/20

Merry Christmas to you and your family!

2020 has presented all of us with challenges that we never expected or experienced. We hope the new year will bring brighter days and joy back into your lives.

We will remain the city that is the “Gateway to Happy Living” - Your City Council & Mayor

The Trussville Tribune

Page 10

December 23 - 29, 2020

Opinion

Federal lawsuit against Alabama could have long-term consequences for state criminal justice system

By Paul DeMarco

Alabama state leaders have been working to overcome the consequences of the pandemic and the resulting economic impact.

Now add a new lawsuit against the Alabama Department of Corrections by the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) to the mix.

The feds have been threatening the suit for months, but

with very little notice to the State, moved forward last week. The lawsuit accuses the prison system of violating

the constitutional rights of the inmates. There is no question the state’s corrections system has been the source of controversy for decades, but the Governor has been working diligently on a plan which would add three new prisons to the state to alleviate overcrowding.

The state said it has been negotiating in good faith to resolve the issues when the complaint was filed.

Attorney General Steve Marshall has promised to vigorously fight the suit. The attorney general and the corrections system should strongly push back if the DOJ wants to force the state to release prisoners that could be a danger to the public. In addition, what may be demanded of the corrections system could potentially cost millions of dollars to the state’s general fund to the detriment of other

Paul Demarco

vital Alabama agencies and programs.

The state should administer prisons in a manner that does not violate inmate’s constitutional rights, but punishing those who break Alabama state laws and endanger its citizens should not be restricted by the DOJ or a judge at their behest.

Paul DeMarco is a former member of the Alabama House of Representatives

Letter to the Editor from HTMS 8th FAITH: What grader Baylee Lowery: Today’s World will you give for

By Baylee Lowery, HewittTrussville Middle School

Today’s world is not the beautiful earth we have all known and loved. Today’s world has affected us all in new and unprecedented ways.

In previous years, we all said, “2020 the year of tomorrow! I bet we will have flying cars then! Maybe even a portable telephone!” It was the year to look forward to and the year of new beginnings.

We, as a whole, have let down everyone before us. We are the future in their eyes and have been too focused on ourselves. We should be focused on our sons and daughters… the people of tomorrow, OUR future.

Yes, we have had some setbacks, COVID-19 being one of them, all in one year.

All the hate from the election, the arguing never coming to a stop over things such as racial injustice pertaining

to people like George Floyd.

He was done so wrong yet some people think there was no problem with what happened that day with Floyd uttering the words, “I can’t breathe.” Some people don’t even know the way of the world. They are stuck in the clouds from either their fame or fortune. We are running but we are running in the wrong direction. We, as a whole, can stop the world from turning into a giant ball of fire. Give us a chance and give everyone after us a chance to experience what it’s like to live in a safe place.

We were once known as the melting pot of the world but as Turgood Marshall once said, “The United States has been called the melting pot of the world. But it seems to me that the colored man either missed getting into the pot or he got melted down.” From this, I perceived that we are leaving out a key ingredient.

We are excluding what makes us known as the melting pot of the world. Marcus Thomas, the career prep teacher at Hewitt-Trussville Middle School, put things into perspective for his students. He recently talked to students about something called “culture bumps.” A culture bump is when society perceives or believes something because that’s what they think, despite

there being no facts to support their belief. Thomas tells students to look at the facts and not what they see on tv or what they hear.

The United States is like one big culture bump right now, over many things. We need to realize what we have done and what type of culture bumps we have created.

What type of generation we have raised, and what they will become because of us.

The United States, the melting pot, 2020 – the year of tomorrow, culture bumps…the world as we know it.

We need to stop stereotypes and create the world everyone needs after a year like this. We need to realize that money is just paper, that color is just a reflection of light and that differences can be set aside.

We might not be in the 2020 people imagined, but if we work together, we will create an even better version because everyone needs to breathe.

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Christmas?

By Michael J. Brooks

I remember how angry the man was. He came to our hotel one evening with a confirmation number. I pulled it up on the computer and discovered the reservation was for the following night.

This particular night was a sell-out for us, so I knew we had no rooms. He fumed and fussed and cussed, and insisted, “But I have a confirmation number!” He demanded I call the manager.

I explained to the manager what happened, and he told me to give the man one of the yet unclaimed but reserved rooms. He said when the last confirmed guest arrived, I should give them a complimentary room at the hotel next door.

I don’t think this angry guest ever “got it.” His reservation was actually worthless that night, and the manager told me to be sure to apologize to him for his mistake!

One of the great villains of Christmas, other than King Herod, is the innkeeper. We customarily say that he denied Jesus a clean room for his birth. But if there’s no room, there’s no room! This isn’t the innkeeper’s fault; it’s the architect’s fault!

A child chafed at playing the innkeeper in his church’s Christmas play. His only line was, “There is no room in the inn.” However, on the night of the production, with the spotlight in his face and Joseph and Mary standing in front of him, he said, “There is no room in the inn. But please come in for a cup of coffee!”

The innkeeper isn’t a villain. He showed compassion by offering the expectant mother what he had—a barn—so that Jesus wouldn’t be born outside. The barn smelled bad, as most barns

do, but at least it offered shelter for the night.

The innkeeper is a good example for us because we all need to offer what we have to Christ.

As we grow older, most of us gain a new appreciation for “stuff.” We have so much of it–it seems to multiply in the dark! This is especially true for collectors.

I’m in a collecting club and remember a friend who has since died telling me he slept in his easy chair because he had so many boxes of stuff he couldn’t get into his bedroom! The rest of us may not be that bad, but we often spend our lives collecting more and more things.

Michael Brooks, Siluria Baptist Church

This Christmas is a good time to consider a searching question: “What will you give for Christmas?” Whether it’s things, or a bank account of $100 or $100,000, we all have something we can give to Christ for Christmas.

The innkeeper, contrary to popular lore, was a man with an unselfish heart. -30Reflections is a weekly devotional column written by Michael J. Brooks, pastor of the Siluria Baptist Church in Alabaster, Ala. The church’s website is siluriabaptist.com.

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The Trussville Tribune

Classified

Holiday Recipes: Steel Magnolias,

by Andrew Armstrong Many people live their lives by a quote from the 1989 film “Steel Magnolias”.

“I would rather have thirty minutes of wonderful, than a lifetime of nothing special.”

This infamous line was in reflection of Shelby’s wish to have a child, even at the risk of her own life. This decision also expresses, how in life we will inadvertently, hurt the ones we love based off matters from the heart. We are willing to love so hard, that we will put our own relationships with family and friends at risk. Often at times not knowing, what we will truly lose if it goes awry. Everyone is after, their own “Happily Ever After”.

What if we became the reason that somebody chose to never love again?

When is it wrong to love?

Are we supposed to stay away from a certain person, if we’re told in advance? When does a no become yes and when does the yes become a no? What consequences, do we face if we ignore our own warnings?

Why were we willing to risk it? Is it truly worth it? The answer is probably a “NO” eight times out of ten, it’s not worth risking your life’s well being. These questions are all important though and you should always, ask them to yourself. For example, if you’re told to stay away from a close friend’s roommate, it might be wise too. Even if it could, become something real and long-lasting. If it blows up, then odds are you’ve lost the relationship and a close friend. You should remember, that true friends are hard to come by nowadays. I’m sure you’re reading this and thinking to yourself “Oh this won’t happen to me, if I fall for the roommate we will all be one happy family!” Yeah… well, I don’t think Carole Boone planned to be the wife of a serial killer either, but she was married to Ted Bundy! When you don’t think something can happen to you, that’s usually when it does. Don’t be striking matches at every person, who comes your way, especially not the roommate.

Please I’m begging you to leave the roommate alone! If a spark forms and a relationship is truly meant to be, then nothing can stop the devouring inferno. The roommate will only be yours if it’s truly what destiny has planned for your life. Don’t force it to happen, because Love is patient and Love is kind. The fires of love can scorch more hearts and do more damage than any wildfire ever could.

“Love” What is it actually? This is a life-altering event

Page 11

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that has built and crushed kingdoms, since the dawn of time. It’s an invisible chemical bond, between people that emotionally brings them together. A sense of commitment that in theory can never be broken. Love is as wild as the roaring ocean and as free as the howling winds. It cannot be bought, yet it is highly sought after. It can not be sold or traded. You cannot make someone love you, nor can you prevent it. The heart is your best friend and at times he is your enemy. You can not bargain with him, nor can he be deceived. He comes quickly and sometimes he leaves even sooner.

The holidays are not just a time of joy, but they can easily reflect one’s sorrow. This column is inspired by the love in all of our lives. No matter if your love came and went, it still affected your life in a sense that can never be reprimanded. There may not even be a picture of the love you shared. Instead, it might be forever sealed in your memory, as a feeling of glowing warmth. It still was alive and it was there, even if the two people it concerned have passed from this world. The fire of love dies, but death does not dissolve the embers.

Instead, they are left behind, waiting for the next special soul to discover its magic.

-Andrew M. Armstrong Jiffy Corn Casserole • 1 can of creamed corn • 1 can whole kernel corn, undrained • 2 eggs, beaten • 1 box of Jiffy cornbread mix • 1 Cup of sour cream • 1 can of Rotel tomatoes • 1 Cup of Colby Jack cheese, shredded Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Combine all the ingredients and bake in a casserole dish with more cheese sprinkled over the top if desired. Bake for 30 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.

Cathedral Window Cookies • 1 stick of butter • 1 semi-sweet chocolate chips • 1 package of pastel miniature marshmallows

• 1/2 Cup of pecans, crushed • flaked coconut • Confectioners sugar • Parchment paper In a double boiler, melt the butter and chocolate chips.

Add in the pecans and let it cool for several minutes, then fold in the colored marshmallows. Spread the mixture onto parchment paper, that’s been sprinkled with coconut and confectioners sugar. Let it cool, until it can be rolled up.

Refrigerate the roll and Slice thin for serving.

Walnut Dreams • 1 egg white, lightly beaten • 2 Tablespoons of heavy cream • 1 teaspoon of vanilla • 4 Cups of confectioners sugar • Walnut halves and pieces Combine the egg white and cream. Stir in the vanilla and 2 Cups of the powdered sugar.

Using a wooden spoon, stir in the remaining 2 Cups of confectioners sugar, until the mixture is too thick to stir.

Turn the mixture out onto a silicone mat or other surface and knead, until the mixture is smooth and satiny. Roll into a 1/2 inch balls and press a walnut half into each side.

Variation I: Chop walnuts (or other nuts, such as pecans, macadamias or almonds). Roll in mixture, then dip in chocolate.

Variation II: Stir in peppermint flavoring and form into patties before dipping.

Store in an airtight container in refrigerator.

Anne Will’s Sausage & Cheddar Biscuits • 4 Cups of Self-rising flour • 2 sticks of unsalted butter, Cold • 1 Tablespoon of salt • 2 teaspoons of baking powder • 1 2/3 Cups of buttermilk (or regular milk with 2 teaspoons of vinegar mixed in) • 1 Pound of sausage, cooked completely and chilled • 1 Cup of cheddar cheese, shredded • 2 Tablespoons of butter, melted for brushing on the biscuits

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Preheat the oven at 400 degrees. Combine all the dry ingredients and cold butter in a food processor, pulse until it forms fine crumbs. You want the little chunks of butter to stay intact and not melt from the heat of your hands.

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Spray a large cast iron skillet

with cooking spray and place in the balls of dough. Brush the tops of each biscuit with melted butter if you wish.

Place the skillet in the oven and bake for about 15 to 20 minutes, until golden brown and cooked all the way through.

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Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore • 4 Pounds of chicken pieces • 2 bell peppers, diced

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Serve with pasta or rice and fresh salad.

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1591 Gadsden Hwy. Birmingham, AL 35235 205-407-1775 www.jmgardens.com Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home & Gardens would like to recognize families & friends who participated in our annual Wreaths Across America event on December 19, 2020. We will continue to honor and remember the fallen veterans who bravely sacrificed all for our freedom.

The Trussville Tribune

Page 12

O b i t u a ry

Sandra Lee Davis november

25, 1945 – november 25, 2020 Sandra L Davis, 75, Duluth, Georgia passed away peacefully on her birthday, November 25th, after a long battle with Parkinson’s and Lewy Body Dementia. She was the devoted wife of her high school sweetheart and soulmate, Russell Davis, to whom she was married for 57 years.

Sandra was born in Detroit, Michigan and, after school years in Decatur, Georgia, moved to Trussville, Alabama where she met the love of her life, Rusty. Together, in Atlanta, Georgia, they built a successful commercial roofing business where they valued people and a family atmosphere. The friendships she developed within the company and in the industry were personal and have spanned decades. She was always very proud of their company and the continuation of it with their daughter, grandson, son-inlaw, and nephew.

Above all, Sandra was devoted to her family. Her greatest joy was spending time with her husband, sister, children, and grandchildren. She would revel in planning trips with Rusty and her family, especially to warm places or to national parks, taking years to create an itinerary that had a special activity for each person’s enjoyment. Somehow, she could make every fun trip an “educational opportunity”. She loved game nights, playing cards at the beach or in the pop-top camper, and Texas Hold ’em in Las Vegas where even the card room greeted her affectionately. She enjoyed volunteering at her grandchildren’s schools, often the library where she could share her love of reading. She was always her family’s biggest fan at sporting events, concerts and plays. Sandra loved Christmas, movies, music and the beach, and she and Rusty never missed a game of her beloved Atlanta Braves.

Sandra was a talented artist and equine photographer who loved sharing and nurturing a love of painting and photography with her grandchildren. She encouraged their painting from an early age, seeing a masterpiece in each child’s work. Sandra captured the beauty and warmth of her family and places she visited in her paintings, a lasting gift for us all.

Sandra is survived by her husband, Russell, their daughters, Michele (Hap) Hood and Jennifer (Ed) Bulluck, her 12 grandchildren James (Lucy) Wassel, Brooklyne (Kyle) Wassel, Lauren Wassel, Elizabeth (Jeremy) Gilliam, Bill and Maggie Hood. Jake, Davis and Eva Marie Eaton, Catalina, Anamaria and Jaclyn Bulluck, and Katelyn (Bryan) Bell. She also leaves behind her great-grandchildren Raylan, Wyatt, Julian, Josiah, and Jeremiah. Sandra was greatly loved by her sister Deborah (Ron) Sanders, brother and sister-in-law, Larry (Lorene) Davis, Mother-inLaw, Clarice Davis and her cousins, nieces, and nephew. She was preceded in death by her parents Henry and Natalie Goggans and father-in-law, Lawrence Davis.

Sandra’s greatest gifts were sharing her joy of life, modeling kindness and giving whole-heartedly to others. She made each person feel important and deeply loved. Sandra was deeply spiritual and will be missed dearly by all.

We know she is in Heaven and her spirit for life will live on in those she loved.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Sandra’s honor to the North Ga Community Foundation (https:// tinyurl.com/SDavisgiving ) for the Russell and Sandra Davis scholarship fund that helps low income / high potential students attend college or may be made to the Mayo Clinic Neurology Dept for research by Dr. Zbigniew Wszolek. See below for more details.

“And the one carried in the current said, ‘The river delights to lift us free, if only we dare let go. Our true work is this voyage, this adventure’.” – Richard Bach Due to Covid-19 and health considerations, a private family ceremony will be held at a later time. The family has set up a website as a tribute and for friends and family to leave comments and share memories: http://www.

SandraLDavis.org

December 23 - 29, 2020

Jennie Daniel Nevels december

19, 2020 ~ december 19, 2020

Jennie Daniel Nevels, age 95, passed away on December 18, 2020. She was a native of Saulsbury, TN and a long-time resident of Irondale, AL. Jennie met the love of her life, Bruce Nevels in Oakridge, TN during the war at the Atomic Bomb Project at Y-12. She and Bruce married shortly after and moved a great deal before settling down in Irondale, AL. She was a member of Grantswood Baptist Church. She was very active in the Baptist church. She taught Sunday school, bible school, and also young people’s classes and activities for years.

She retired from American Chemical/Osment Paper after 20 years of service.

She is survived by her loving children, Frances Nevels Ewing (Doug) and Dr. Charles Nevels (Sabra); grandchildren, Kate Ewing, Eric Nevels (Linaya), Emily Bowling (Nick) and April McMahan (Jeff); her great grandchildren, Malinda McMahan, Bryce McMahan, Luna McMahan and Eleanor Bowling and one great granddaughter expected to arrive in April. She also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews.

We thank the many care givers who provided her company and help over the last several years, including her neighbors, and Fran Newsome McDowell who lived with her a while. Her many church friends, and sitters from Visiting Angels.

Thomas Spitzley september

25, 1945 ~ december 14, 2020 (age 75) Thomas Edward Spitzley, 75, passed away at St. Vincent’s East Monday, December 14, 2020 following a fight with COVID. A longtime resident of Birmingham, Tom was proceeded in death by his parents, Dorothy and Richard Spitzley, brothers Paul, Tony, Eugene and sister Kathy. He is survived by his two sons Jim Spitzley (Alice) of McCalla and Thomas Spitzley, Jr of ClayChalkville; Grandchildren Alizabeth Spitzley, Michael Spitzley, Jimmy Spitzley, William Spitzley, and Noah Spitzley; Great Grandchildren Asher Spitzley, Lucas Spitzley, Jimmy (Katie), and Michael (Zaynah); Brothers Danny Spitzley and Steven Spitzley of Lansing, Michigan and Charles Spitzley (Robin) of Springville.

Raised and growing up on a farm in Ionia, Michigan and then later residing in Lansing, Michigan, Tom graduated from Eastern High School and then served honorably in the U.S Army before returning to Michigan and raising a family. Later moved to Birmingham, Al and became self employed as a painter (residing in Center Point.) He was a member of the Birmingham Record Collectors Association and enjoyed listening to the Blues. He was very close to the late great Henry ‘Gip” Gipson and helped provide for him for many years.

He loved fishing with his boys and grandchildren. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend. He will be truly missed by many.

In lieu of flowers, make donations to ALS Association of Alabama or Birmingham Record Collectors Association.

F. L. Sims East Point has been entrusted with services.

Gordon Ray Washington

Sandra Arlene Holbrook

Gordon Ray Washington, 81, died unexpectedly on December 14, 2020, at Grandview Medical Center Hospital. He was born April 18, 1939, in Springville, Alabama, the son of James Aubrey Washington and Hazel Ruth Washington (Jones).

april

january

(age 71)

16, 1949 ~ december 17, 2020

18, 1939 ~ december 14, 2020 (age 81)

Ray Graduated from Springville High School, Class of 1957. After High School, Ray served in the Army Nation Guard for 6 years. Ray was a branch manager at the Birmingham News before opening his own trucking company called Centerpoint Trucking.

Sandra Arlene Holbrook, 71, of Trussville, AL went to be with the Lord on Saturday, December 12, 2020. She is preceded in death by her loving husband of 41 years William “Will”. She is survived by her daughters Taylor (Michael), Shawn (Blaine), and Shannon; her sisters Gail and Pat; her grandchildren Kayla Brooke, Brenna, Lexie, and Abbigail; her great-grandchildren Kayleigh, Skylar, and Caden. Sandra loved her family and was always there for them. She was a wonderful Nanny to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She loved to shop and she loved pink. Sandra was the life of the party and there was a never dull moment with her.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his sister Ruby Sue Hicks, his wife Jaqueline Golden Washington, who he was married to for 50 years, and the son they raised together Michael Milton Megois Sr. Surviving Ray are his DaughterIn-Law Brenda Lane Megois (Michael), Grandchildren Micheal Megois Nesbitt (Hunter), Michael Milton Megois Jr, Great-Grandchildren Samantha Gayle Nesbitt, Annabella Raye Nesbitt, Siblings Roy Washington (Linda), Judy Shults (Gary), Janet McBroom, Robin Washington, along with 9 Nieces and Nephews, and 15 Great Nieces and Nephews.

Those who wish to remember Ray in a special way may make gifts in his memory to either Argo Christian Fellowship or Pleasant Hill United Methodist Church.

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Program your thermostat to 68° or lower.

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Raise your blinds to let the sun help heat your home.

NOTICE IS HEREBY given that J.A. Dawson & Co., Inc. 220 Applegate Trace –Pelham, AL, Contractor, has completed all work on – THE CITY OF TRUSSVILLE, AL, 131 MAIN STREET, TRUSSVILLE, AL. TRUSSVILLE GREENWAY BALLFIELD PROJECT/PROJECT# 18-LW-1062.

All persons having any claim for labor, materials, or otherwise in connection with this project should immediately notify the above named contractor and Mayor Buddy Choat, 131 Main Street, Trussville, AL 35173. All claims should be filed within 30 days of the final publication of this notice.

Page 13

655-2095

sports

Keeping Co Community 1st Always

Clay-Chalkville boys vs. Vestavia Hills High School at Vestavia Hills Tuesday, Dec. 29 at 12 p.m.

Leeds boys vs. Homewood High School at Vestavia Hills Tuesday, Dec. 29 at 12 p.m.

The Trussville Tribune December 23 - 29, 2020

Center Point girls vs.Hayden High School at Center Point Tuesday, Jan. 5 at 6 p.m.

Early signing period Pinson sends 4 to college, including state’s top player

By Erik Harris, sports editor

PINSON — The early signing period has begun for college football prospects across the country, and four such standouts were recognized at Pinson Valley High School last Wednesday morning in the school’s auditorium.

Just 12 days after claiming the program’s third state title with a 23-13 decision over Spanish Fort, first-year head coach Sam Shade congratulated four of his top seniors on their opportunity to play at the next level.

“This decision you’re making is a four- or five-year decision as far as college, but in actuality I call it a 40-year decision, because it’s going to affect the next 40 years of your life as far as that education that you’re going to get and the people that you’re going to meet,” said Shade to his four players on stage Wednesday. “You guys know this, because I’ve got friends I went to college with almost 25 years ago that came to games this season, supported us, supported me and supported you guys — that’s why it’s important.”

Pinson Valley senior Ga’Quincy McKinstry meets with the media following a signing ceremony at PVHS last Wednesday. Photo by Erik Harris

Pinson Valley’s 2020 list of early signees includes Ga’Quincy “Kool-Aid” McKinstry (Alabama), Julian Peterson (Troy), Kenji Christian (Virginia Tech) and Rayvon Crum (North Texas).

Principal Mike Turner opened up the signing ceremony by congratulating the 2021 class for being the winningest football class in Jef-

ferson County history.

“I’m so incredibly proud of what you’ve accomplished and the foundation that you’ve left as the absolute most winningest class in not only Pinson Valley history, but the history of Jefferson County football,” said Turner.

McKinstry, the state’s top-rated recruit and No. 1 corner in America, signed his

NLI to the University of Alabama, where he committed in October. The 5-star prospect pulled MVP honors for his game-winning TD grab in the Class 6A state championship game on Dec. 4 and followed with another MVP nod last weekend at the Alabama-Mississippi All-Star Classic after recording two interceptions, including a pick-6.

Peterson, a defensive lineman, honored his longtime pledge to Troy University on Wednesday. Peterson thanked God, his parents, family, friends, teammates and coaches for supporting him throughout his journey.

Christian signs with Virginia Tech as a running back after pledging to the Hokies in August of this year. He says he plans on bringing the winning culture he’s helped establish at PVHS with him to Blacksburg, Va. “I like winning,” said Christian. “I only lost like four times at Pinson, so I think we’re going to win (at Virginia Tech).”

Crum, a North Texas signee, has been a stalwart on the Indians offensive line for the last few years. The 6-foot-5 tackle says the Mean Green stood out during his recruitment process, based on their constant communication.

“They showed the most love out of anybody: They were sending me letters every day, texting me, calling me, so they stood out,” said Crum.

As a group, the Pinson Valley Class of 2021 went 50-6 with three state titles in its four years of play.

Goodwin inks with LSU during Hewitt signing ceremony

By Erik Harris, sports editor

TRUSSVILLE — Hewitt-Trussville added to its long list of football scholarship signees last Wednesday night.

The Huskies saw a trio of seniors sign National Letters of Intent during the early signing period, as running back Armoni Goodwin (LSU), cornerback Trey Washington (Ole Miss) and linebacker Michael Edwards (Georgia Southern) took center stage in Trussville.

See DECISION DAY, Page 14

Chatman-led Eagles top Corner 57-34

By Erik Harris, sports editor

CORNER — Jordan Chatman poured the points in with ease last Tuesday night.

The Center Point senior attacked the basket with purpose, as his Eagles ran away with a 57-34 road win over Corner. Chatman posted a game-high 22 points and was among a trio of Center Point seniors to reach double figures in the scorebook.

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Page 14

December 23 - 29, 2020

Eagles clip Corner in overtime, improve to 2-0 in area play

By Erik Harris, sports editor

CORNER — The Center Point girls basketball team fought back from an early deficit last Tuesday night to score a 42-39 overtime victory at Corner.

Regulation ended with a 37-all tie and Kam Williams buried the difference maker from beyond the arc to send the visiting Eagles home with a 2-0 Class 5A, Area 12 record. Williams took advantage of an open look from the

Area 12 From page 13

Desmond Gaines followed Chatman with 12 points to go with 11 more from KC Irby Jr. on the road. The runaway victory bumps the Eagles to 2-0 in Class 5A, Area 12 play.

It took about eight minutes for Center Point to find its offense and once it began to click, it wouldn’t stop.

Chatman sank one shot in the opening frame, which ended in a 10-10 tie.

Center Point guard Aniyah Crenshaw defends the perimeter during a win at Corner. Photo by Erik Harris

did plenty of damage in transition and also showed range with three 3-point makes as the difference swelled to double figures.

Chatman’s final trey came at the third-quarter horn when he drilled a contested heave from well beyond the arc, sending Center Point to the fourth up 50-28. The Eagles doubled up their hosts with 20 points in the third.

Chatman spent most of the final period on the bench, as Center Point coasted in for a

Center Point senior Jordan Chatman boxes out a Corner defender during a road win last Tuesday. Photo by Erik Harris

He took over from there, quickly spurring a 16-6 run that led to a 30-18 advantage at the half. The senior wing

decisive area win. The Eagles returned home two days later for a 61-40 victory over Helena.

right corner for the opening score of the overtime period.

Kiyla Calvin would later connect on a pair from the charity stripe and Corner sophomore Payton Cox missed the would-be equalizer at the horn.

Williams led Center Point with 23 points in the area win.

She did most of her work from inside and was particularly effective in the second half, scoring 19 of her 23 points after intermission.

The Eagles trailed for much of the first half after

Calvin started the contest with two makes from the freethrow line. Corner responded by working a 7-0 run and later went to the second frame with a 9-6 advantage.

The Jackets held Center Point to three field goals — two Calvin buckets and an Aniyah Crenshaw triple from straight on — throughout the second quarter and went to the break leading 17-16.

Calvin and Williams went to work in the third, pouring in four baskets between the pair to put their Eagles out front

27-25 going into the fourth.

Calvin, the team’s primary point guard, shot inside for two offensive rebounds that turned into five third-quarter points. She later connected on a late-fourth quarter 3 that gave Center Point a 3633 cushion with less than a minute remaining, but Corner sophomore Jessica Shubert got out in transition to even things at 37-all and ultimately force overtime.

Center Point followed with a 32-31 home loss to Helena last Thursday.

Decision Day From page 13

During coach Josh Floyd’s seven-year tenure with the Huskies, he’s seen 40 players sign college football scholarships, including 12 Power Five signees.

Goodwin can now add his name to that list after ending his recruitment by choosing LSU over Auburn, Alabama and Florida State during a signing ceremony on Wednesday night in the school’s auditorium.

He says he decided on the Tigers about three weeks ago, telling only his family and closest friends.

Goodwin, a 4-star prospect according to numerous recruiting services, originally committed to Auburn in May 2019, but backed off his pledge on Nov. 30, following his senior season. The 5-foot8 senior broke the career rushing record at Hewitt-Trussville with 3,367 yards and 43 scores in 26 games played.

He ended his record-setting prep career with a strong senior campaign, churning up 1,422 yards and 18 touchdowns on 152 carries (9.4 yards per rush) for the Hus-

Hewitt-Trussville running back Armoni Goodwin signed a scholarship to LSU last Wednesday night. Photo by Erik Harris

kies en route to the Class 7A quarterfinals.

Washington served as Hewitt’s top cover corner this season, and stuck with his July commitment on Wednesday by signing with Lane Kiffin’s Ole Miss Rebels.

“Every time I get on the phone with them it’s always fun, good environment, good vibes and that was really big in my recruitment,” said Washington of the Ole Miss

program.

What are the Rebels getting in the Trussville product?

“Physical, leader off the field and just a consistent playmaker,” Washington answered.

Covering the opponent’s top receiver week in and week out, Washington finished his senior year with two interceptions and 46 tackles.

Edwards, a Georgia Southern signee, was a difference maker on the Hewitt-Truss-

ville defense this fall. The 6-foot-2 senior pulled down a team-high four interceptions to go with 70 solo tackles, including nine tackles for loss.

“Mike has had a great career here,” said Floyd. “He’s a very versitile player. He played a lot of different spots on defense for us. I’m an offensive coach, so I hated going against him every day in practice, because he just makes plays.”

The Trussville Tribune

December 23 - 29, 2020

Page 15

Highway 11

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The Trussville Tribune

Trussville Antiques & Interiors 147 N. Chalkville Rd– Trussville Everything to Bring Christmas to Your Home

The Trussville Tribune

Page 16

December 23 - 29, 2020

HOOPS ROUNDUP Cougars score tourney championship; Hewitt goes 2-0 in Hoover

By Erik Harris, sports editor

The Clay-Chalkville boys notched an Oak Mountain Invitational championship run last weekend, capping it off with a 53-36 win over Class 7A No. 2 Spain Park in the tournament finals Saturday.

Head coach Jeremy Monceaux got another big outing from senior guard Donovan Shangase in the runaway championship win. He sank 23 points for the Cougars (62) to go with a 12-point effort from Isiah Daniel and 11 more from Jonathan Harris on Saturday.

Clay-Chalkville’s tournament run includes wins over Southside-Gadsden (56-40), Oak Mountain (56-39) and Spain Park (53-36). Shangase scored 13, 11 and 23 points respectively in those games.

With a tournament championship under their belt and

a 6-2 overall record, the Cougars will likely break into the next installment of the Class 6A ASWA basketball poll.

The Hewitt-Trussville girls grabbed a pair of wins last weekend at the Big Orange Classic in Hoover. The second-ranked Huskies (140) opened up tournament play on Friday night, holding off Eufaula 58-52.

En route to victory, senior Amiya Payne became the first player in school history to reach 2,000 career points. She led the Huskies with 24 points and eight rebounds to go with 12 points and five boards in the win.

Hewitt-Trussville wrapped up tournament play on Saturday with a 49-42 victory over Auburn. Head coach Tonya Hunter’s girls took control of the contest with a big first half that gave the Huskies a 10-point advantage.

The Springville boys remained unbeaten last Thursday night with a 55-34 road

Hewitt-Trussville senior Amiya Payne follows through on a free-throw attempt during a road win at Mortimer Jordan. Photo by Erik Harris

victory over Locust Fork.

The Tigers opened with a 7-0 run and later finished 5-for-9 from beyond the arc

on their way to an 11th consecutive win. Junior guard Gavin Gooch led all scorers with 16 points thanks to a

6-for-7 night from the field.

Ben Bianchi chipped in with eight points to go with six more from Chase Higgins.

However, it was the Springville defense that set the tone as the Tigers held Locust Fork to below 30% shooting, including a 1-for-14 effort from beyond the arc. As a team, Springville recorded 11 steals and finished with 21 points of turnovers.

The Tigers (11-0, 2-0) jumped out front 18-6 in the first quarter and later went to the break up 31-12.

It was a big offensive night in Pinson, as the third-ranked Indian boys captured an 8455 home win over Gadsden City.

Pinson Valley saw four players reach double figures in the scorebook, including Joseph James (18 points and eight rebounds), Joshua Williams (14 points and seven assists), Caleb White (12 points) and Terry Coner Jr. (12 points).

With the win last Thursday, head coach Darrell Barber’s team improved to 6-1 on the year.

Berguson represents Hewitt in 62nd AllStar Classic

By Erik Harris, sports editor

MOBILE — HewittTrussville linebacker Landen Berguson gave a strong showing last Friday night in Mobile for the 62nd annual AHSAA North-South All-Star Game.

The 5’11” senior matched Jett Smith with a team-high

seven tackles to go with a fourth-quarter interception, but his North All-Stars came up short of the South by a 2820 final in Hancock Whitney Stadium. The loss extends the North’s deficit in the overall series to 32-27-22.

Berguson’s highlight came midway through the final frame and prevented a po-

tential knockout punch from the South. Trailing 21-7 and backed down against their own goal line, the North defense stood strong as South quarterback Karson Green’s pass was deflected and intercepted

by Berguson, who returned it back 18 yards.

The North offense took advantage of the sudden change,

marching 86 yards on 11 plays with Tuscaloosa County running back Damien Taylor scoring from the 3-yard line with 2:20 remaining to trim the margin to 21-20. However, the 2-point try came up short.

The North defense got the ball back near midfield with 31 seconds remaining, but Lanett‘s Kadarius Zackery picked

off a pass from quarterback Zyquez Perryman of Pleasant Grove and raced 54 yards for the game-sealing final TD as the South pulled out its second straight win in the series which was first played in 1948.

Carver-Montgomery linebacker Joshua Young was in on nine tackles and had a key interception to earn MVP honors for

the South, which was coached

by McGill-Toolen Catholic Coach Earnest Hill. Taylor finished with a North-South record 180 yards on 20 carries and scored all three North TDs to earn MVP honors.

The game was played in Mobile for the first time in the series. It is set to return in 2021 and 2022.

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