The Trussville Tribune – Dec. 28 - Jan. 3, 2022

By Terry Schrimscher For The Tribune

SPRINGVILLE — The Springville City Council paid tribute to long-serving councilmember Wayne Tucker during its regular meeting Monday night, December 19.

Trussville 6-year-old named 2023 Champion for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals

By Hannah Curran Editor

TRUSSVILLE — A Trussville 6-year-old has been chosen to be one of 10 2023 Champions for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. Logan McCool will be the first child from Alabama to be selected as a Champion and serve as the face for the children treated at Children’s Hospital.

“These ambassadors spend their year advocating for the charitable need of children’s hospitals across North America,” Children’s Miracle Network Hospital stated.

Candice and James McCool always wanted a child, and after two miscarriages, they got pregnant with Logan.

By Hannah Curran Editor

TRUSSVILLE — The Trussville City Council approved the alcohol license ap-

“At our 17-week ultrasound, we were not expecting anything to be out of the normal; I was considered high risk because I was 36 years old at the time,” Candice said. “So we were getting multiple scans and ultrasounds, and at our 17-week anatomy scan,

they noticed that her head was abnormally shaped, so they sent us to a high-risk OB who was the one who actually diagnosed her with spina bifida.”

Logan was diagnosed with the most severe form of spina bifida, myelomeningocele, where there is a complete opening down to the spinal cord that leaves the nerves exposed. Due to the severity of Logan’s prognosis, the doc-

tors told James and Candice the worst possible news.

“The doctor said she’d probably have a very low quality of life,” Candice said. “He told us that she might not be able to eat or drink on her own, breathe on her own, and she may even die shortly after birth. He gave us two options: you can either go out of state and terminate the pregnancy, or we can refer you to Vanderbilt, who does a fetal sur-

gery that could be very risky for the mother and baby.”

Candice and James chose neither of those options; instead, they met with a Children’s of Alabama neurosurgeon who explained that he saw kids with spina bifida live wonderful lives.

“He told us, ‘we can’t guarantee what kind of life she’ll have, but I have seen these kids live happy, productive lives. You have every right to enjoy this pregnancy,’” Candice said.

Logan has had four brain surgeries, three back surgeries, and two leg surgeries, all before she was two years old, but she continues to grow and be a happy kid. She is doing well with reading and writing, and she loves math and science. Don’t let Logan’s wheelchair fool you because she is completely capable of living a full life.

When Logan was two years old, she was nominated to be a Children’s of Alabama

Caroline and Company boutique takes up residence in historic downtown Trussville

By Nathan Prewett For The Tribune

IRONDALE – Several locals were honored at a meeting of the Irondale Council on Tuesday, Dec. 20, where they also rejected a proposal to locate a medical cannabis

By Crystal McGough Associate Editor

TRUSSVILLE – Anyone who frequents the historic district of downtown Trussville may be familiar with the small children’s boutique, Rebecca Brown’s, that has been located for years off North Chalkville Road next to the Kuttin’ Up hair salon. But something people may not have noticed is that over the last six months, Rebecca Brown’s has transformed into Caroline and Company, and along with the name change has come a few other changes, as well.

By Crystal McGough Associate Editor

MARGARET – The Margaret City Council accepted a letter of resignation from Margaret Police Chief James

Caroline White grew up in Trussville – as did her parents – graduating from Hewitt-Trussville High School in 2014. Having always had an interest in fashion, White attended the University of Alabama, where she graduated in 2018 with a degree in Fashion Marketing.

“Fashion, style, all things fashion industry: it’s just something I’ve always been

passionate about,” she said. “When I realized that I could go to school for that, it was a no-brainer. I feel like that’s just a gift that I was given.”

While in college, White started a fashion blog called “Caroline and Company,” which would then turn into an online women’s boutique after she graduated.

“The blog really just started as a creative outlet for me, and then my friends and family just encouraged me to start my own store,” she said. “I had a good support system around me.”

With the support of her family, Caroline and Com-

pany succeeded as an online boutique for three and a half years before a mutual friend introduced White to Rebecca Brown, who owned the children’s boutique in Trussville.

“We met because we were in the same industry and we were just giving each other tips back and forth,” White said. “Honestly, the Lord just kind of took it from there. It was really a whirlwind.”

White said that she had not been considering making Caroline and Company a brick-and-mortar store, so when Brown approached her with the idea of taking over the Trussville boutique,

she initially turned the offer down.

“She was wanting somebody to take it over who was from the town and was going to continue what she had already started,” White said. “When she mentioned it to me, it was really not something that I felt like I was ready to do. But that’s where the Lord took over and obviously this was His plan for my life and for the business. He so perfectly laid that out and I could see His hands working through all of it.”

Part of the reason White originally planned for Caroline and Company to remain an online-only boutique was that she did not think her dream of having a shop in the heart of Trussville was realistic.

“Honestly, this is the only spot I would have wanted to be able to do this,” she said. “In my dreams, I never really had thoughts of opening a brick-and-mortar store,

By Crystal McGough Associate Editor

ARGO – Mayor Betty Bradley and the Argo City Council accepted a letter from Argo Police Chief Glenn Wells Monday night, Dec. 19, announcing his intentions to

Leeds council tables report on city transactions

By Nathan Prewett For The Tribune

LEEDS – A resolution releasing a report on city transactions brought up by Councilman Eric Turner at the Dec. 5 meeting was tabled after a lengthy executive session on Monday, Dec. 19, pending more information.

At the Dec. 5 meeting, Councilman Eric Turner

Clay Council sets city meeting schedules for 2023

By Terry Schrimscher For The Tribune

CLAY — Mayor pro tempore Becky Johnson presided over a brief meeting of the Clay City Council on December 20. The City Council usually meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month but met on the second

Trussville

Trafficking Free Zone during council meeting

From The Tribune staff reports

TRUSSVILLE — The Trussville City Council declared Trussville a Trafficking Free Zone during the council meeting on Thursday, Dec. 22. According to the proclamation read by Councilmem-

Margaret Council accepts resignation of police chief, holds heated discussion regarding interim chief

declared

Springville councilmember Wayne Tucker remembered for his service to the city

Argo Police Chief Glenn Wells retiring, Capt. Alan Busler sworn in as new chief

Irondale City Council honors locals, rejects medical cannabis site proposal

Trussville council approves Velma’s alcohol license application, economic development incentive for new hotel

All-State football teams named

Logan McCool (Photo courtesy of the McCool family)

Photo courtesy of Caroline White

Scott

Hannah

Crystal

Johnny

and third Tuesday due to the holiday break.

In his regular report, City Manager Ronnie Dixon updated the Council on upcoming vacancies and possible appointments to city boards, including planning and zoning, zoning adjustments, and the library.

“BZA hasn’t met in 10 years,” Dixon said. “That’s a good thing. That means your zoning ordinances are working correctly.”

The Council unanimously approved four ordinances establishing meeting times for 2023.

The City Council will continue to meet on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month in 2023 except for December, when the holiday schedule will require the second regular meeting to move up a week like this year.

The Planning and Zoning board will meet on the third

Thursday of each month. The Board of Zoning Adjustments will meet as needed when they have an agenda. The Library Board will meet on the fourth Tuesday of each quarter.

The Clay Senior Center will be closed for the holidays beginning December 22 and will reopen in 2023 on January 4.

Dixon updated the Council on plans for building a Chick-fil-A restaurant in the city. The restaurant closed

on the property on the corner of Chalkville Mountain Road and Old Springville Road across from Publix.

The Council expects updated plans from engineers this spring and indicated it could be a drive-thru-only location.

Dixon said another restaurant and convenience store has purchased property at the intersection of Tyler Loop Road and Sweeney Hollow Road. No decision has been made on the type of restaurant

but said it could be a fried chicken franchise.

To close the meeting, Dixon mentioned an armed robbery that took place earlier in the day. He urged caution as people are shopping in town.

“It was a store that was robbed, but it was at gunpoint, and they did run away. Just caution everybody to be careful,” Dixon said.

The next meeting of the Clay City Council is scheduled for 6 p.m. on January 10.

Clay City Hall decorated for Christmas. City Manager Ronnie Dixon cautioned citizens to be extra cautious after a local store was robbed on December 20. (Photo by Terry Schrimscher)

Trussville

From front page

plication for Velma’s and the economic development incentive for a new Home2 Suites hotel during the council meeting on Thursday, Dec. 22.

Tammy and Royce Butler were present during the council meeting to discuss the return of Trussville’s iconic Velma’s.

“Our idea is to bring Velma’s back as close to what it was under the same name, in the same building,” Royce said. “Obviously, the building’s a little different now than what it used to be, which is a good thing because we need more space. So we’re going to continue the same basics that Velma’s had, the same basics

From front page

Thompson during the regular council meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 20, 2022. Thompson had only officially been in the position since Nov. 1, but served as interim chief approximately four months prior to being appointed in November.

The letter of resignation, as read by City Clerk Teja McIntyre, states: “Dear City of Margaret, this letter represents my official notice of resignation from my position of Chief of Police with Margaret, being made the final date the 13th day of December. It has been my great pleasure to be alongside the individuals at Margaret, and I will always appreciate the experience and knowledge I gained during my time here.

Sincerely, James Thompson.”

After accepting the letter, the council moved to the next item on the agenda, which

L oca L / R egion

and drinks, hopefully, the signature burger that everybody always asks about.”

Royce said they are working to get as close to the original as they can, which includes bringing back karaoke. They hope to create a fun, friendly atmosphere.

Velma’s will be a 21 and up bar that will have security/bouncers at the entrances checking IDs, along with having the employees trained to check IDs before serving alcohol.

Tammy explained that they hope to have Velma’s operating from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. during the week and 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. on Friday and Saturday.

The Trussville City Council also approved the economic development incentive for

Margaretwas to appoint an interim police chief.

With the city currently not having a mayor, Mayor Pro Tem Daryl McIntyre had already appointed Margaret Police officer Anthony Fields to be the interim head of the police department, which City Attorney Erskine Funderburg said was within his rights.

According to Councilor Matthew Tortorice, the city council could either vote to corroborate that appointment or move to vote for a different interim.

A heated discussion was held during the pre-council business meeting, where Tortorice said that the council and mayor pro tem had discussed holding a special-called meeting to consider their options for the position, but that meeting never came to fruition.

“We hired basically the newest employee we have straight into the interim police chief position,” Tortorice said during the business meeting.

a new Home2 Suites hotel at (6360 Misty Ridge Drive)

“The City encourages and supports economic development within the City to develop and maintain a strong local economy, increase employment opportunities, broaden the City’s tax base, and increase tax revenues allowing the City to provide greater services to residents of the City and to improve the quality of life of its resident,” the resolution states.

Mayor Buddy Choat said that this agreement is for a Home2 Suites hotel that will be four stories tall and possibly 97 rooms on Service Road and Misty Ridge Drive. The property is already zoned appropriately; then, the owner, Rupesh Patel (Mansa-TRH,

“We have two good candidates that are still available … and we’ve already been through the interview process, the background check process, and that was basically a month ago.”

Tortorice was referring to the interview process that was done prior to hiring Thompson in November.

“I wanted to make a motion to hire Richard Bell from the Anniston Army Depot,” he said after the regular council meeting. “He was our second-best candidate (after Thompson).”

During the business meeting, several accusations were made by council members and Officer Fields regarding rumors, allegations, and lies.

Tortorice claimed that Officer Fields had pressured him into saying that Fields was the best choice for the interim police chief position but that he (Tortorice) originally said he didn’t want to name anyone at the time.

LLC), came before BZA last year wanting to build two hotels.

“The other site was not conditioned to build, but this site is, and so they meet all the requirements,” Choat said. “They are expected to have a $14 million investment in the hotel. As we have done with other new businesses to try to help developers like Mr. Patel. We’ve agreed to share the lodging tax, which is new, normally we share the sales tax.”

The lodging tax is currently six percent. So for the first five years of this development agreement, the hotel will get four cents of the six cents. Then the remaining five years, the city and the hotel will split it three cents each,

Fields denied pressuring Tortorice into making such a statement, stating that he did not come to the city of Margaret with any intention of becoming the police chief.

“I asked you, as a man … who would be your choice?” Fields said to Tortorice. “I’m going to tell you exactly what you said: you said, ‘You.’

“I also asked you this: Is it my (skin) color you got a problem with?” Fields added. “You never answered.”

Tortorice said that, to him, repeatedly asking him to name his recommendation after he had already stated he did not want to name anyone at that time was his definition of “pushing.”

“He repeatedly asked me, was pushing me to make a statement,” he said. “… You’re accusing me of not saying your name because of your skin color; you’re calling me racist.”

With tempers seemingly on the rise, Mayor Pro Tem

and 10 years according to Patel’s figures, would get him the million-dollar compensation if provided that the hotel performs or even outperforms it could be sooner.

“The exception would be if the city ever raised the lodging tax to anything above six percent, the four cents and three cents will remain with the agreement regardless if we go up,” Choat said. “Mr. Patel understands that and has agreed to that. We think it will be a welcomed addition; we need hotel space. We run out when we have events here and appreciate him considering Trussville.”

Patel explained to the council that this will be the first extended stay all-suite hotel that is by Hilton.

McIntyre ended the discussion during the business meeting. The discussion picked back up during the regular council meeting when Tortorice made a motion for the council to go into executive session to discuss the interim chief position. Councilor Jonathan Ray seconded the motion, but it failed when McIntyre and councilors Darius Crump and James Chapman did not vote.

“Well, since we don’t want to go into executive session, we’ll just put it out there,” Ray said. “When all this first happened, you, Mayor Pro Tem, stated that we did not have to have an interim chief, or a chief, in order for the city police department to move forward.”

McIntyre said Ray was lying, and Funderburg, the city attorney, said that there is no law requiring a city to have an interim chief.

“That’s a policy of ALEA (Alabama Law Enforcement Agency) that you’re talking

“So this just brings a fresh perspective,” Patel said.

“This is an all-suite hotel and is different than a normal hotel; all the rooms will have a kitchen. Plus, the larger rooms will provide for all the people traveling here for sports and events; they just have a lot more space. I think this will be a perfect addition, and we’re excited to be part of this.”

Patel said the hotel’s design plans should be drawn up by June 2023; as soon as all the design plans are approved, it will take around two years to construct the hotel.

The next Trussville City Council meeting will be held on Tuesday, Jan. 10, at 10 p.m. at the City Hall Annex, located at 113 North Chalkville Road.

about,” Funderburg said. “That’s just a policy; there’s no law that requires it. … It’s just you don’t have access to certain things that ALEA has, but you still have arrest power, and you still have the ability to enforce the laws of the state. ALEA has programs and things that you want to enable them to access criminal histories, things like that, quickly. And they have policies … that’s something they created, but there’s no law that requires it.”

When McIntyre called for a motion to adjourn the meeting, councilors Ray and Tortorice both said they had additional business they were wanting to discuss. McIntyre, Chapman, and Crump voted to adjourn and promptly left the council chambers.

Ray and Tortorice remained in their seats at the dais and, for approximately 40 minutes, took direct questions and held discussions with the citizens who were present in the audience.

Argo Police Department, which

“The past 16 years have been very rewarding for me, and I have thoroughly enjoyed working for you,” Wells said in the letter, which was read in full by Mayor Bradley. “The support you have shown to the police department is incredible and I will be forever grateful.”

Each member of the council and the mayor approved a motion to accept the letter, though Bradley said that she did so reluctantly.

“I wish you well, Glenn,” Bradley said. “You have been a great asset to our city and we’re going to miss you. I hope you’ll come back, not as an employee, but as a friend.”

Wells, in person, expressed his gratitude to the mayor and city council, and Captain Alan Busler presented Wells with a retirement badge.

“I do appreciate that very much,” Wells said. “I love the city of Argo and everybody in it. The council has been fantastic; you have been great to us. I just appreciate everything y’all have done for us.”

The council then unani-

mously approved Resolution 2022-12-29A, appointing Busler as the new Argo Police chief, and Busler was sworn into office by Judge Carl Chamblee Jr.

“Captain Busler is a long-serving member of the Argo Police Department and has served in a capacity assisting Chief Wells in many of his administrative tasks necessary to effectively and efficiently run the Argo Police Department,” the resolution states.

“… Having considered other candidates … and evaluated the needs of the Argo Police Department, the city council of the city of Argo finds Captain Busler as the best candidate to replace Chief Wells upon his retirement.”

In other business, the council approved Ordinance 202212-19, amending the city’s “Safe Streets Act” by changing the administrative fee amount from $200 to $100 and directing those fees to be deposited to the Police Department Equipment Fund.

Mayor Bradley informed the public that City Hall will be closed Dec. 23-26 in honor of Christmas, and Jan. 2, 2023, in recognition of New Years. The next meeting of the Argo City Council will be Monday, Jan. 9, 2023, immediately following a 5 p.m. work session.

Crystal McGough can be contacted at mcgoughcrystal@gmail.com

brought up two transactions made in the past in which apparent discrepancies were found in the acquisition of the building for the Leeds Water Works Board and City Hall from Alabama Power.

Turner provided copies of checks signed to Barnes and Barnes and asked the reason for paying them, to which Mayor David Miller said were for fees and closing when the buildings were bought, but Turner questioned this. It was determined at that meeting to investigate the matter.

At the Dec. 19 meeting, the agenda was short, with the final item being a resolution that would allow the city attorneys to give a report on the transactions and discuss it with the media. An executive session was requested before this would be brought up.

The session had lasted nearly two hours when the council returned to the cham-

bers. They then voted to table the resolution.

“They wanted some more information about it before they agreed on it,” City Attorney Scott Barnett said. “So they’re going to bring it back up at a future date when they get the information they’re satisfied with.”

Several spoke during public comments. The first was Amber Yeackle, who brought up the sound quality of the council’s microphones. Miller told her that this would be addressed in the future as the person tasked with the sound was not present.

Afterward, Judd Moore spoke on the matter of the money that was apparently paid to Barnes and Barnes, as discussed at the last meeting. He then spoke on freedom of the press and speech before his time was up.

Last was Alex Warner, who said rumors about Leeds on the alleged misappropriation of funds have been circulating. He urged the city

pared to recognize signs of human trafficking.”

to have RDA financial records available to be viewed. He also asked if there was a commercial development authority as he couldn’t find any information on one for Leeds himself. Miller did not reply.

Additionally, during reports from department heads, Fire Chief Chuck Parsons advised the public to be careful

unaware that trafficking is a threat to their neighborhoods, families, and children.

with heaters and similar heating equipment as the weather is expected to turn extremely cold this week. He also said Santa Claus would be making another round through the city for children to see in the next two days, weather permitting.

Developmental Services Department reported that business licenses can be renewed on Jan. 1. This can be done online or at City Hall. In other business, the council:

• Tabled approving a liquor manufacture license to Sweet Home Spirits and

• Declared three properties on Beech Street to be unsafe buildings. Meetings are held on the first and third Mondays of every month at City Hall on 1400 9th Street Northeast. Agenda packets can be seen online at the City of Leeds website.

Nathan Prewett can be reached at nthomasp6@ gmail.com.

trafficking organizations by,

ber Jaime Anderson, Trussville seeks to enhance public welfare, protect public safety, and promote human flourishing for all residents and visitors by declaring that freedom from human trafficking is a fundamental human right.

“Human trafficking is a form of modern-day slavery in which victims are forced to work in various forms of exploitation, including debt bondage, forced marriage, labor, and commercial sexual exploitation of adults and minors, that are induced through force, fraud, or coercion,” the proclamation states. “The City is committed to ensuring that our community is pre-

The proclamation states that the risks of human trafficking have increased during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Economic turmoil, financial hardship, isolation, and the shuttering of schools and other programs have resulted in increased opportunities for human trafficking, particularly online, and resulted in fewer places for victims to turn to report exploitation and fewer chances for the abuse to be recognized,” the proclamation states. “An increase in tourists seeking entertainment, including commercial sex, increases the potential risk for exploitation and human trafficking.”

Due to its isolating nature, many individuals remain

“The first step in eliminating human trafficking in our community is to educate others,” the proclamation states. “We must work diligently to ensure that all front-line industries, educators, and first responders are aware of this issue and how to spot it.”

The city of Trussville will continue its efforts to make the city a Trafficking Free Zone in 2023 by combating the human trafficking of its children and vulnerable adults and mitigating the associated public safety, economic and health risks to its community in collaboration with the Child Trafficking Solutions Project and other anti-human

• Combating labor trafficking, servitude, and commercial sexual exploitation through comprehensive education of its staff,

• The implementation and enforcement of a zero-tolerance policy against any act which may support human trafficking,

• Supporting collaborative community-based solutions across a continuum that includes prevention, recovery of victims, and prosecution of perpetrators, And ask all citizens of Trussville to join them in promoting a shift away from the culture of tolerance toward human trafficking.

Mayor David Miller during the city council meeting. (Photo by Nathan Prewett)

From

Tucker passed away Sunday morning after a long illness.

“As many of you know, we lost Wayne yesterday morning,” Mayor Dave Thomas said.

The Springville Police Department provided flowers and an American flag which were placed at Tucker’s seat at the Council desk during the meeting.

During the city’s sesquicentennial celebration last week, Thomas read a proclamation being presented to the City Council in honor of Tucker’s years of service to the Springville community. Tucker served as Mayor pro tempore and served his district since first elected in 1980.

“You’ve got to be doing something right and be well thought of to hang onto the same council seat for 42 years,” Thomas said, speaking to The Trussville Tribune after the reception last week. “Wayne has been able to hold that seat, serve his district and obviously serve it well.”

Tucker retired after a 43year career with the Alabama Department of Transportation and continued sharing his expertise as a construction consultant. In May of 2021, he was honored in Huntsville during the annual convention of the Alabama League of Municipalities for 40 years of service on the Springville Council.

Miss Historic Springville 2023, Dominique Verville, introduced herself during the meeting and expressed her excitement to represent Springville in the Miss Alabama pageant in the summer of 2023. Verville is from Montgomery and is a Junior at Auburn University. She previously served as Miss Birmingham in 2022.

Police Chief Wayne Walton recognized three of his officers for excellence in service this year. Walton recognized

Brandon Cain as Officer of the Year. In addition, Justin Rigby was honored with the Chief’s Award; an award created last year by Walton.

John Key received the Top Gun award. The award is given in a competition where an officer must assemble a handgun and patrol rifle and then fire the weapons at a target 50 feet away. Key received perfect scores for both weapons.

Chief Walton praised the department for their work in the Cops for Tots initiative. The department collected toys to provide Christmas for 72 local children this year.

The Council unanimously approved merit pay increases for part-time employees. The measure has been discussed

at the last few meetings and was brought up for a vote after City Attorney James Hill clarified language defining eligible employees. Regular, part-time employees are considered eligible for a merit increase after one year of regular service upon the recommendation of a supervisor.

In other business, the Council heard from Springville High School junior Carson Dubose, who introduced the idea of creating an official flag for the city. The Council also approved a proclamation in recognition of human trafficking awareness.

Due to the holiday schedule, the Council approved moving the January meeting dates to January 9 and 23.

mostly because I didn’t think it would be able to happen on all my terms – having a store right in the center of my hometown. I never thought would be a possibility, so when Rebecca mentioned it to me, it truly was a Godthing. I give Him all the glory and praise for it.”

Caroline and Company offers many of the same children’s brands customers are accustomed to finding at Rebecca Brown’s, including The Beaufort Bonnet Company, Angel Dear, Noodle & Boo, Pixie Lily, Kissy Kissy, Paty, and Salisbury. However, in addition to the baby and children’s items, Caroline and Company also offers a wide variety of clothing, shoes, jewelry, and accessories for women of all ages.

“We are continuing everything that Rebecca started; we have newborn through (children’s) 5/6,” White said. “Then, I’ve added the women’s part, which is Caroline and Company, that I’ve had previously online. We have a super wide range of customers.”

One fun fact that customers may not even think to question is the meaning behind the name Caroline and Company. While the addition of “and Company” has become a sort of gener-

ic addition to many business names, for White, it has a much deeper significance.

“My name is Caroline, so it was meant to represent me and the company around me,” White said. “We are the company that we keep, and so that’s where the ‘company’ part comes from. We have a little phrase, ‘in good company.’ It’s kind of our slogan. It just seemed a perfect fit to sum up the meaning of the company.”

Having grown up in the Trussville community, marrying her high school sweetheart who also grew up here, and returning back to their hometown after moving away for college, White said the addition of “company” to her business name alludes to the village of family and friends who have helped and inspired her along the way.

“The ‘company’ part was meant to represent the people who encouraged me in the past, the ones that inspire me daily, and the people that I hope to meet and bring into our company and our community that I surround myself with and we surround the store with,” she said.

“People say it takes a village. It really does. My family is very hands-on and helps me all the time – every single one of them.”

Now that Caroline and Company is a brick-andmortar store, White said that the meaning behind the name

takes on even more depth, because she wants people to know that when they shop there, they’re in good company.

“It’s just come full circle and become more meaningful over the years,” she said.

“I believe in strong family ties and being able to give back to the community … it was something that I always hoped I’d be able to do. I’m so grateful now for that opportunity.”

Caroline and Company is located at 103 North Chalkville Road, Trussville, and their business hours are Tuesday-Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. They are closed on Sundays and Mondays, and will also be closed on New Year’s Eve.

For those who prefer to shop online, the online boutique is still available at www.shopcarolineandcompany.com. Customers can also visit Caroline and Company on Facebook and Instagram.

“I’m honored to be able to be right here in the center of the town that I grew up in and that my family grew up in,” White said. “It’s so fun to see the growth of the town. I know so many of my customers and their families, and it’s fun to be able to see them face-to-face.”

Crystal McGough can be contacted at mcgoughcrystal@gmail.com

The Springville Police Department placed flowers and an American Flag in honor of Councilmember Wayne Tucker who passed away Sunday after a long illness. (Photo by Terry Schrimscher)

Superhero, where Books a Million sponsors an event and chooses patients from the NICU to be a hero in the hospital. Then when Logan was three years old, Children’s asked her to be the ambassador for the hospital.

“That was when COVID hit, and she didn’t get to do a lot of face-to-face in-person things that kids prior got to do in that role,” Candice said. “So then they asked her when she was four years old to go ahead and do it again.”

Then when Logan was five years old, Children’s Miracle Network chose her to be the state representative in 2022.

“They take all the state representatives, and they choose 10 kids to represent them nationally the following year, and that’s how she was chosen for the opportunity,” Candice said.

If you shopped in Winn Dixie, Sam’s, Costco, Panda Express, Express Lube, Walmart, and several other places, you could have potentially seen Logan in a photo for Children’s Miracle Network.

“When you give to these different fundraisers in Alabama, it all goes to Children’s of Alabama; it doesn’t go to other hospitals in other places where you might not know the kids,” Candice said.

Logan said she has fun traveling around and helping raise money for the Children’s Miracle Network.

“We went to Salt Lake City, and it was great,” Logan said.

James explained that Salt Lake City is where the Children’s Miracle Network headquarters is located, and they were given the opportunity to travel to Utah to meet the people who do the behindthe-scenes work at Children’s Miracle Network.

Candice said that Logan does really well when in front of the camera, and she makes it her own. While in Utah, Logan did a video interview and a photo shoot and played with other kids.

Ever since Logan was a baby, she has been active in anything and everything. Candice and James never want to hold Logan back, so if Logan wants to do something, they make it happen. Logan is currently doing horseback riding; she has waterskied before, and she takes karate lessons. Logan also modeled for Carter’s and was in a Cartoon Network commercial.

“Logan doesn’t wait for someone to explain what to do; she just adapts and does it because she knows what she’s capable of,” James said.

Candice and James also have a Facebook page and a youtube account that keeps their friends and family updated on everything Logan.

James said they get people walking up to them saying, “Hey Logan,” and they have no idea who they are, but they know Logan. So, follow along with Logan on her journey on Facebook and Youtube @livelikelogan.

Irondale

dispensing site.

Mayor James Stewart Jr. read proclamations for two residents, beginning with Dr. William Weber, a veterinarian who practiced at Eastwood Animal Clinic. He died on Oct. 18, shortly before his 85th birthday. He co-founded the Alabama Animal Adoption Society and helped establish Alabama Spay and Neuter Clinic.

He was particularly known for his efforts in reducing pet overpopulation through spaying and neutering, as well as for the treatment of wildlife.

“He compassionately treated innumerable pets that might never have received treatment otherwise,” Stewart read from the proclamation.

His wife, Linda, was present to hear the proclamation. Stewart told her there would be an animal event in April 2023 in Weber’s name. She expressed her thanks to the council and to everyone who helped her and her husband.

Afterward, Pastor Robert McAdory and his wife Dorothy were dressed in Christmas reds. He has served as pastor of Faith Missionary Baptist in Bessemer for 28 years. He will retire on Dec. 31 this year. He and Dorothy have three children.

McAdory was licensed to gospel ministry by Rev. J. P. Parnell of Mt. Hebron Baptist Church in Irondale in 1981. He attended Howard College Divinity School and earned a certificate in Christian training from Samford University, as well as a Baptist degree from the Birmingham Baptist College.

McAdory gave his thanks for the proclamation and spoke about his love for the city.

“I love Irondale,” he said. “Irondale is small, but just because it’s small doesn’t mean it’s insignificant. This is a great city.”

The council then an-

nounced the winners of the Holiday House Showdown, which is a competition of decorated houses. These were: Kim McDanal from District 1, Ratus Johnson from District 2, Joshua Brasseale from District 3, and Cora Holtbrooks from District 4, who was not present at the meeting.

Afterward, Sen. Linda Coleman came to the meeting to present a $5,000 check to the city for a new sign.

“These funds will be used to replace the sign at the entrance of the city of Irondale,” Stewart said. “We will replace that sign that has been inoperable since probably 10 years. We currently have $25,000 that we raised.”

He added that Commissioner Joe Knight has donated money and that the goal is to raise $65,000 to complete the project.

After passing the consent agenda, attention turned to an ordinance to establish a medical cannabis dispensary site, brought up by Councilman Aaron Sims. The Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission has been accepting applications for licenses to open dispensaries, with a deadline for the end of the year.

Speaking in favor of authorizing the ordinance were presenters Patrick Hogan and Linda Peacock, who outlined the regulations involved in producing medical marijuana. They said that if Irondale

does not pass the ordinance, they do have a backup site in Birmingham. However, Stewart was in opposition and said that some parts of the presentation were unclear.

“My position on this is: we don’t have to be in a hurry to be able to adopt anything just because someone’s telling me that they’re going to go to another municipality,” Stewart said. “And we are trying to develop a brand from the city that is very unique, and we’re trying to develop Irondale to be a destination point that is built around the recreational use of all of the assets that we have here, from the Cahaba River to Ruffner Mountain, to all the biking, hiking, everything that takes place in the middle of our great city.”

“We’re trying to change the image and the brand of the city, and that’s why I was opposed to anyone wanting to bring that into the city of Irondale because there’s still a lot of things that has not been determined, there’s things that have not been decided on as we talk here tonight and I don’t see where it would hurt us to be able to wait until some of these things play out so that we will have a much clearer vision about what we want to be able to do here in the city.”

Irondale Police Officer Paul Kellogg was asked for his opinion, and he spoke at some length, advising the

council to contact the Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission and speculated on consulting with agencies about any potential security concerns if such an ordinance were passed. After further discussion, the council voted to reject the proposal, with Sims being the sole “yes” vote. In other business, the council:

Authorized Stewart to enter into an agreement with Alabama Power Company for surveillance camera installation at the City of Irondale water shop not to exceed $402.45 per month, plus energy usage, Authorized a service agreement with I Am Love Ministries for $500 from the 2022-23 Fiscal Year Discretionary Fund of Councilman John London to be used to promote youth athletics for a Youth Athletics Banquet, Extended the moratorium on short-term rentals enacted in Resolution 2022R-164 until Apr. 1 in 2023,

• Authorized a service agreement with Studio By The Tracks for $1,500 to provide services for those with special needs and “to create a community and career path for those individuals,” Authorized the purchase of real estate at 4233 Hood Drive, 4239 Hood Drive, and 2178 Ruffner Road for $425,000, plus closing costs, to be used as a new location for the Water System of Irondale, and Approved the provision of In-kind Services by the city for Marty’s GM St. Patrick’s Day Party.

• The Irondale City Council meets on the first and third Tuesdays of every month at City Hall on 101 20th Street South. Livestreamed recordings of meetings can be seen on the city’s Facebook page. Nathan Prewett can be reached at nthomasp6@ gmail.com.

The council then announced the winners of the Holiday House Showdown, which is a competition of decorated houses. (Photo by Nathan Prewett)

includes activities such as the introduction to scratch camp, flight and aerodynamics, making air balloons, model rockets, we will also explore the world of kite making and much more. (Winter Session II)

Start Date | February 20 Day & Time | Mondays: 6pm7pm

Cost | $36 YMCA Members | $72 Non-Members

Click HERE to register.

2023 Alabama Wedding Showcase January 28, 2023 @ 10:00 am - January 29, 2023 @ 5:00 pm

The program is open to anyone in the 6th to 12th grade. Snacks and refreshments will be provided.

(Photographs may be taken during the program and used by the TPL. If you do not want pictures of your child to be taken please let the Librarian in charge of the event know)

VENUE TRUSSVILLE LBK Auditorium

Children’s Storytime Thursday, January 05: 10:30am - 11:30am

The American Red Cross has an urgent need for volunteers in Jefferson & St. Clair County. There are many roles to be filled, such as the Blood Drive Donor Ambassador and Blood Transport volunteer positions. The American Red Cross prevents and alleviates human suffering in the face of emergencies through the mobilization power of volunteers and the generosity of donors. You can turn your compassion into action with the gift of time serving in one of our critical volunteer roles. For more information, visit www.redcross. org/volunteer or email sandy. zuiderhoek@redcross.org to learn more about volunteer opportunities and how to apply.

YMCA Enrichment programs

January 4, 2023 @ 6:00 pmFebruary 20, 2023 @ 7:00 pm

Food and Fun (ages 5-12)

Through this 7 week program your child will explore the power behind the foods we eat and why physical activity is important. Sessions will offer children the opportunity to learn about healthy eating, fitness, social development, and build lifelong relationships with other children their age. Children will learn through the Food & Fun Curriculum led by a Program Instructor. Sessions will be 1-hour, once per week and include classroom style learning, hands-on learning, and physical activity. (Winter Session I & II)

Start Date | January 4 Day & Time | Wednesdays: 6pm-7pm

Cost | $36 YMCA Members | $72 Non-Members

Click HERE to register.

Start Date | February 20 Day & Time | Mondays: 6pm7pm

Cost | $36 YMCA Members | $72 Non-Members

Click HERE to register.

Volleyball Skills Clinic (ages 8-16)

Learn or sharpen the basic skills of playing volleyball. Join us for this 7 week clinic to either sharpen your current skills or begin learning the skills to becoming a volleyball player. (Winter Session I)

Start Date | January 4

Day & Time | Wednesdays: 6:30pm-7:30pm (ages 8-12) | Wednesdays: 7:30pm-8:40pm (ages 13-16)

Cost | $60 YMCA Members; $120 Non-Members

Click HERE to register for ages 8-12 and HERE for ages 13-16.

STEM Enrichment (ages 5-12)

Learn about the exciting world of stem. We will follow the PCS edventures curriculum.

PCS edventures curriculum

The first annual Alabama Wedding Showcase presented by The Trussville Tribune, sponsored by Shirley’s Florist, will take place on January 28th and 29th at the Trussville Civic Center. We will have dozens of vendors for all your engagement, wedding, and honeymoon needs.

Venue

Trussville Civic Center

Ukulele Club Tuesday, January 03: 6:30pm - 7:30pm

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

Join Ms. Alicia for stories, songs, bubble time, and lots of fun! The event will be held in the library auditorium every Thursday at 10:30 a.m.

All ages. Every Thursday at 10:30 a.m.

VENUE TRUSSVILLE LBK Auditorium

Yarn Manglers (Knit & Crochet Group) Thursday, January 05: 2:00pm - 4:00pm

cLassified

SERVICES

SELLING a RV, Tractor or Golf Cart? ADVERTISE STATEWIDE or by region in over 100 Newspapers, reaching over 1 million readers each week! Run your ad in our Classified Network for just $210 per week! Make one call to this newspaper (participating Ala-SCAN newspaper) or call 1-800-2647043 to find out how easy it is to advertise statewide!

BATH & SHOWER UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Affordable prices - No payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & Military Discounts available. Call: 833-449-1307.

BECOME A PUBLISHED AUTHOR! We edit, print and distribute your work internationally. We do the work… You reap the Rewards! Call for a FREE Author’s Submission Kit: 888-283-4780

LONG DISTANCE MOVING: Call today for a FREE QUOTE from America’s Most Trusted Interstate Movers. Let us take the stress out of moving! Speak to a Relocation Specialist, call 844-925-3534

EDUCATION

ATTENTION ACTIVE Duty & Military Veterans! Begin a new career and earn your Degree at CTI! Online Computer & Medical training available for

Call (205) 533-8664

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

HEALTH/BEAUTY

ATTENTION OXYGEN THERAPY USERS! Inogen One G4 is capable of full 24/7 oxygen delivery. Only 2.8 pounds. FREE information kit. Call 844-322-9935.

ATTENTION: VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS! A cheaper alternative to high drugstore prices! 50 Pill Special - $99 + FREE Shipping! 100% guaranteed. CALL NOW: 866-505-0828.

FOR SALE

DirecTV Satellite TV Service Starting at $59.99/month! Free Installation! 160+ channels available. Call Now to Get the Most Sports & Entertainment on TV! 844-594-7108

NEED NEW Flooring? Call Empire Today to schedule a Free in-home estimate on Carpeting and Flooring. Call Today! 1-888-381-0916.

UPDATE YOUR HOME with Beautiful New Blinds & Shades. FREE in-home estimates make it convenient to shop from home. Professional installation. Top quality - Made in the USA. Call for free consultation: 844-809-9165. Ask about our specials!

Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today. 20% off Entire Purchase. Plus 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-833-683-2005

GENERAC Standby Generators provide backup power during utility power outages, so your home and family stay safe and comfortable. Prepare now. Free 7-year extended warranty ($695 value!). Request a free quote today! Call for additional terms and conditions. 1-877-323-5516

AUTOMOTIVE

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

AUTO INSURANCE from $29 month Free 2-minute Quote! We Compare all Insurance providers offers for you! Lowest Rates! Call Now 866-450-0943

VEHICLE TITLE Problems?

We have a solution! Call Jason Steward Enterprises, We’re Alabama’s #1 Vehicle Title Problem Experts! Free telephone consultation. North AL 1-256850-0527, Central AL 1-205267-5735, South AL 1-251342-8538

Interested in learning the ukulele or looking for somewhere to play? We have a professional ukulele player here to help you learn and perfect your skills! This event is open to all ages.

(Photographs may be taken during the program and used by the TPL. If you do not want pictures of your child to be taken please let the Librarian in charge of the event know)

TRUSSVILLE

Cahaba Room

Video Games - Teen Wednesday, January 04: 4:00pm - 5:30pm

Knitters and crocheters, join us for fellowship and creativity!

Knit & crochet meetup group (aka The Yarn Manglers). Bring any projects you are working on; join us for fellowship and creativity. This is a great way to check in, catch up, see what everyone is working on, and get help if you are stuck. Please join usnewcomers are welcome! Join our Facebook group: YARN MANGLERS ANONYMOUS VENUE TRUSSVILLE Cahaba Room

Dungeons and DragonsMiddle School Thursday, January 05: 4:00pm - 5:30pm

6th to 8th grade. If you have any questions about D&D or about groups you can reach out to us at Jacob.Sartain@ jclc.org or at 205-655-2022. (Photographs may be taken during the program and used by the TPL. If you do not want pictures of your child to be taken please let the Librarian in charge of the event know)

VENUE TRUSSVILLE Parkway Room

Free play video game program for teens.

The first Wednesday of each month the library will be hosting a free play video game program. The library will provide several gaming systems and games as well as a large projector for use. From there we will battle, explore, and race through various games. This is a great chance for our game loving teenagers to meet other gamers and enjoy a digital past time in person.

D&D group for 6th to 8th grade.

Dungeons and Dragons is a classic tabletop roleplaying game that encourages creativity and cooperation. The players form a party, go on quests, explore ruins, and (probably) save the world. Registration for the event is required as space is very limited. This event is for adventurers in the

Beginner Ukulele Club

Venue

o bitua R y

Colin Joshua Glover

september 23, 2001 ~ december 16, 2022 (age 21)

For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given…Isaiah 9:6 Colin Joshua Glover was born September 23, 2001, in Homewood, AL to Charlie and Melanie Glover. A natural peacemaker and gentle spirit, he was the second born of a set of twins.

At the age of 10, he was baptized and accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. He was a member of Mt. Joy Baptist Church, under the leadership of Reverend Larry Holman.

Colin was a 2020 graduate of Hewitt-Trussville High School and a current student at Birmingham Southern College, majoring in health sciences. His hope was to become a physical therapist because he truly believed in helping people. In addition to being a student, he was a dedicated basketball player, and as such, was a member of the BSC Panthers basketball team.

Colin had a heart of gold and showed love, affection, and appreciation everywhere he went. His smile lit up a room and his hugs warmed your heart. You would always find a smile on his face no matter the circumstance. He loved his family and friends fiercely and always made space for those in need. He especially loved his twin brother, Cameron, and there was nothing in the world he would not do for him. Colin was also a fighter and worked hard to achieve his goals. Nothing came easy for him, but he never let the challenge deter him. He always put his head down and went to work to accomplish the task. He leaves to cherish and celebrate his memory his parents, Charlie and Melanie; his twin brother, Cameron; and his sister, Sloan; maternal grandparents, Freeman and Vera Waller; paternal grandparents, Charlie and Evelyn Johnson; aunt and uncle, Vera and Josh Clemons; four first cousins, Nia (9), Naomi (5), Jase (2), and Josiah (2); and a host of extended family and beloved friends. Colin is preceded in death by his uncle, Jeffrey Larry and aunt, Juanita Glover Bogan.

All go unto one place; all are of the dust, and all turn to dust again. Ecclesiastes 3:20 We are confident, yes, well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord. 2 Corinthians 5:8. While we will miss Colin forever on this earth, and the hurt we are feeling now is deep and dark, we take comfort in knowing that he knew the Lord and is resting in eternity with the Father. We have no doubt that we will all see him again.

The family will receive friends at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home Monday, December 26, 2022 from 5pm to 7pm in the chapel. Funeral Services will be held Tuesday, December 27, 2022 at 2pm at First Baptist Church of Trussville; Graveside Services will follow at Jefferson Memorial Gardens East.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Colin Joshua Glover Memorial Scholarship Fund at https://penny.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create/fund?funit_id=2192.

Christy Sue Crain

april 8, 1969 ~ december 17, 2022 (age 53)

Christy Sue Crain, 53, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Friday, December 16, 2022 at Grandview Medical Center.

Christy was born in Birmingham, Alabama on April 8, 1969 to James and Martha Crain. She lived in the Birmingham area her entire life attending Wright Elementary and Huffman High School.

Christy loved to cook and was always trying new recipes. She enjoyed listening to music - everything from Elvis and the blues to 80’s hits,country and gospel.

Christy was a life-long Alabama football fan and enjoyed attending football games including the 1992 and 2009 National Championships. Perhaps most of all, Christy was an animal-lover. She especially loved horses and dogs. The bonds she shared with her long-time pets Mollie, Zowie and most recently, Sadie were like those of a parent and child.

Christy will always be remembered for her fun-loving, spirited, witty personality, her firm opinions, and her love for life. She was a dreamer, a caretaker, a friend, and she loved her family fiercely.

Christy is survived by her parents James “Jim” and Martha “Susie” Crain, sister Cathy (David) Massengill, brother James “Chip” (Marcie) Crain, 5 nieces and nephews, 11 great-nieces and nephews, numerous cousins, aunts, uncles, friends, and loved ones.

Christy is preceded in death by her grandparents Hobart and Ethel Crain and Cecil and Myrtle Lewis.

Celebration of life services for Christy Crain will be held at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home and Gardens in Trussville, AL on Thursday, December 22, 2022. Visitation will begin at 9:00, service will be at 10:00 and graveside will follow immediately after. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, www.stjude.org or Greater Birmingham Humane Society, www.gbhsorg

Robert "Bobby" Norman Bloomston

november 14, 1939 ~ december 17, 2022 (age 83)

The world is a little darker place today, although Bobby Bloomston's light shines on through those that he leaves behind.

Bobby was the most positive, happy, funny, sweet, and charming man you have ever met. He loved his family big and there was never any question of his unconditional love. He made everyone who knew him feel special, that they mattered and that he cared for them deeply.

Bobby lived most of his life in Birmingham - with four years in Tuscaloosa at the University of Alabama - he remained a huge Barna fan until the end. As graduate from Ramsey High School and a talented artist and teacher, Bobby taught in Woodlawn and West End early in his career. His students from so many years ago still recall the impact that he had on all that knew him.

After several sales jobs, he opened a Baskin Robbins ice cream store in Western Hills Mall in the l970's and was wellloved by that community, his customers and employees. Following a time in the hardware business and the apparel business, Bobby began his favorite career, in car sales, while in his 60's. For the next 17 years or so, Bobby loved selling cars, not because he knew a damn thing about cars, but he got to meet people and he was in his element of making relationships and serving customers. Again, through his several careers, his customers, employees, and co-workers adored working with him - his enthusiasm and love of life was simply contagious.

Bobby is preceded in death by his father and mother, Bernard "Bernie" and Yetta Boxer Bloomston; his sister Rhoda Bloomston Feirman; and his beloved wife Mary Bloomston. Bobby is survived by his 5 adoring sons; Marc (Robin), Scott (Jodi), Joel (Janet), Barry (Amy) Brett (Marian)and a wonderful daughter, Darlene (Jon); too many grandkids to count; extended family and so many friends and colleagues.

Bobby will be sorely missed, but his legacy of his kindness and compassion will live on through those were lucky enough to know him.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer's Association; alz.org.

Joseph Vincent Summers

september 16, 1939 ~ december 17, 2022

(age 83)

Joseph "Joe" Vincent Summers, II (83) of Trussville, Alabama, beloved husband of Faye Burdette Summers of 62 years, went home peacefully to be with the Lord in his home on December 17, 2022. He was the proud father of Cindy Joiner (Chip), Christy Johnson (Don), and Chad Summers (Monique), and the adoring grandfather of Shelby Joiner, Trent Joiner, Austin Raney, Anna Katherine Summers, and Caroline Summers, all who knew him lovingly as "Papa."

Joe held Bachelor's and Master's degrees from the University of Alabama (a music education major), where he was a first-chair trumpet player in the Million Dollar Band. A lifetime educator, Joe led as Band Director at Elba High School, Hewitt-Trussville High School, and Leeds High School, also serving at Gardendale and Shades Valley High Schools. He was an innovator, building the foundation for what the Hewitt-Trussville band program is today. Joe had a passion for music, and shared that passion with countless students over the course of his 33 year education career, inspiring many to go on and pursue their own careers in music. A member of First Baptist Church Trussville for over 50 years, Joe played trumpet in the FBCT Orchestra until the last years of his life. He also served as interim minister of music at several churches in his lifetime.

Joe loved his family dearly, loved the Crimson Tide, loved music, enjoyed "tinkering" in his wood shop, and loved to travel with his wife and best friend, Faye. He had a soft place in his heart for children, and could be counted on to stop whatever he was doing to talk to kids of all ages. He had a kind heart, and a unique sense of humor that made him one of a kind.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Winfred and Doris Summers, and his siblings Leonard Summers, Anna Nell Summers, Lorena Summers Davis, Harold "Buddy" Summers, and Jean Wilder Lee, brothers-in-law James Wilder and Frank Davis, and his nephew James Wilder, Jr. He is survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren, his older brother, Bill Summers (Chris), nephews Roy Summers (Charlie), Kirk Summers (Jan), and Dennis Davis (Yvonne), and nieces Anna Sprayberry (Wayne), Patsy Brown (Donnie), Jan Koch (Dave), Ashley Foster (John), Carla Davis, and Beth Hendricks (Russell), and a host of great nephews and nieces.

In honor of his love for children, the family requests in lieu of flowers that donations be made in his memory to St. Jude's Hospital (stjude.org/donate).

Services will take place at First Baptist Church Trussville at Noon, Wednesday, December 21, 2022, with visitation taking place from 10:00am-12:00pm.

The service will be live-streamed at live.fbctrussville.org

Bobbie Lou Wells

may 2, 1932 ~ december 17, 2022

(age 90)

What Do I Bring to My Funeral Arrangement Conference?

When a loved one passes away, one of the first calls you make should be to the funeral home of your choice; on the phone, the funeral director will request some basic information from you- your name, the name of the deceased, the place of death and contact information.

This preliminary call is meant to be quick and as streamlined as possible; the bulk of the funeral arrangements will be made the following day, or perhaps the day after, in your face-to-face conference with the funeral director. At this meeting, it is important for you to come equipped with a few items and pieces of paperwork.

Make sure you know the Social Security Number of the deceased, and that you come ready to provide it. Also bring with you the deceased’s veteran’s discharge papers if applicable; these will be necessary for securing a flag for burial.

If you have pertinent insurance documents, or documents in which the deceased laid out some plans or wishes for the funeral, bring those with you as well. Additionally, if there is a pastor or spiritual leader whose involvement you wish to have at the service, make sure you can provide that person’s name and contact information. The funeral director will also ask for a family history of the deceased and inquire about names of survivors; it’s wise to list names of siblings, parents, children, grandchildren, and other relatives so you don’t forget to mention anyone during this stressful time. Finally: Should you wish to have any personal items of the deceased on display at the funeral, bring them, as well as any clothing or jewelry items you wish the deceased to wear for the visitation. (Note that jewelry items and other valuables can be returned to you prior to burial or cremation.) It is also wise to bring a photograph or two, for use in the obituary.

Bobbie Lou Cummings Wells was greeted by so many family members and friends at the young age of 90 as she made her way home Saturday evening the 17th of December, 2022. She was the beloved wife of Clint and devoted mother to her three sons Kyle, Kreg (d. 1980) and Kameron.

Born on the 2nd of May 1932 to Marjorie and Lewis Cummings, she lived her life in the Birmingham area. Bobbie attended Gibson Elementary and Woodlawn High School (1950) where she was proud to be a Cheerleader for the Colonels, a Honorary Captain of the ROTC Unit and a Member of the Sub Deb Sorority. After graduation, she attended Massey Business College and then went to work for US Pipe.

Bobbie met Clint in 1951. They dated and were married in March 1954 at East Lake Methodist Church. After a stay in Germany, thanks to the US Air Force, they returned and settled in Woodlawn, then Roebuck and lastly in Odenville.

Bobbie enjoyed being active with the William J Christian Elementary School PTA. Later she was a much loved Counselor for the Methodist Youth Fellowship (MYF) at Trussville UMC. And then Bobbie served as Secretary to eight pastors at Wilson Chapel UMC for over thirty years.

Bobbie was a competitor and fighter at heart and that spirit made her a sixteen year breast cancer survivor. She loved swimming, playing tennis and working out, especially with her friends Dave, Darryl and Larry (Sportplex) and cheering for the Alabama Crimson

Melinda Blackmon

Melinda Jo Uzzell Blackmon, 61, went home to be with Jesus her Lord on Monday, December 19, 2022. She was born on August 6, 1961 and was part of the Baby Boomer Generation. She was preceded in death by her father, Thomas Randolph Uzzell, Jr; her mother, Martha Taylor White Uzzell; and her sister Jane Uzzell Dowling. She is survived by her husband Kenneth Edwin Blackmon; her brother Thomas Randolph Uzzell, III (Libby); three children, Mary Jo Blackmon Buckley (Gene), David Kenneth Blackmon (Mary Claire), Jonathan Taylor Blackmon (Lindsey); three grandchildren (Lucy, James Rowe, Kate), and many nieces and nephews. Melinda graduated from Vestavia High School in 1979. In 1983, she graduated from Auburn University with a Computer Engineering degree. In her time at Auburn, she was involved in Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority and was a FarmHouse Fraternity little sister. She worked countless hours in the home pouring into her children and for 16 years as a computer teacher at Briarwood Christian School. In 2011, she was diagnosed with colon cancer. Through the sustaining hand of her heavenly Father, she was able to see her three kids graduate from college and get married. She was also able to love on three grandchildren for the last 3 years. During this season her faith was refined like silver in the furnace so that the likeness of Christ became

His

watching.

Tide.

The Funeral Service for Mrs Bobbie Lou Cummings Wells will be held on Wednesday, December 28,2022 at 12:00PM at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home. The family will receive friends from 10:00PM-12:00PM on Wednesday, December 28, 2022 at the funeral home. Graveside services will follow.

Bobbie had a huge soft spot in her heart for neglected animals, particularly canines. Rather than sending flowers, the family would request that donations be made in Bobbie's memory to the Pell City Animal Control Shelter or the Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama.

increasingly evident for all who were

She chose to cling to Christ, her Hope, and make

good news known to all God brought along her path. During her journey as a patient with cancer, she told countless doctors, nurses, caregivers, friends, and strangers of God’s goodness and the path He made to eternal life through his Son. Even in her last days the phrase “The story is true” rang repeatedly from her lips. It would be her and her family’s greatest joy to know that God used her life and death to draw just one more person to know Christ as their Savior. We know she was received into Heaven with a rich entrance by her Savior and heard the words, “Well done my good and faithful servant.” A celebration of life will be held at Briarwood Presbyterian Church on December 22 at 2:00 PM, preceded by visitation at 1:00 PM. A private family graveside will be held at Jefferson Memorial in Trussville.

Eddie Seal, General Manager

Jefferson Memorial is a full-service funeral home and perpetual care cemetery dedicated to serving our community with dignity and compassion. We Make it Personal® , one family at a time.

By Johnny Sanders Sports Editor

TRUSSVILLE — Thursday night was one that Tonya Hunter and the entire Trussville community will remember forever. With a 56-42 win over Mortimer Jordan, Coach Hunter earned her 400th win as a head basketball coach.

“It means so much that it’s hard to put it into words,” she said. “When I hear ‘400 wins’ I don’t think about the wins or losses. I think about the kids that have been in our locker room and practices for 18 years. Every kid I have coached has left a mark on me. I think about all the kids. To do it here at Hewitt Trussville with this team is amazing.”

The game started out as a bit of a dog fight as Hewitt won the first quarter 16-15 with April Hooks hitting back-to-back three pointers to close out the quarter. Avore Benson matched Hooks’ six points with six of her own as both players led the Huskies in scoring for the first period.

In the second quarter, the defenses took control with Hewitt only allowing Mortimer Jordan to score eight points while only putting up seven of their own. Hooks hit another three during the quarter and Jordan Hunter hit one of her own. The score was knotted at 23 heading into the half.

The

us

it up in the fourth with eight of the 19 points.

On the night, Hooks led the Huskies with 12 points, all three-pointers, followed by Jordan Hunter with 10 points. Yes, Jordan Hunter is the daughter of Head Coach Tonya Hunter.

When asked what it meant to have her daughter on the team for a win this big, Hunter said, “I didn’t think of it really, but it’s like a fairy tale. I’m passionate about this game and it’s not about basketball. It’s about life. For my daughter and my husband to be on that bench with us means the world. They’ve had to sacrifice to get us here.

I want to tell them thank you for allowing me to pour into other kids.”

Speaking on her team’s performance on the night, Coach Hunter said, “Most people would say we are having a rough year. We are not having a rough year. We composed a schedule in the spring to challenge us. So these are building blocks. We built a block in the second half. We did some things that we needed to do for our program to finish our last home game of the year. We had some things we needed to check off of the list. And we did it against a really good team. I’m so proud of them.”

The Lady Huskies head into the Christmas break with a 9-3 record.

third quarter would provide more offense than the previous one with both teams putting up 14 points to send

into the final stanza with a 37-37 score. Hooks hit her fourth three of the game to go with Ashlyn Howard’s four

points, leading the Huskies. At this point, the dog fight would end as the Hewitt Trussville Lady Huskies

dominated the Blue Devils in a 19-5 quarter, giving Coach Hunter her 400th win with a final of 56-42. Lilly Gray lit

Photo by Johnny Sanders

Husky boys overcome slow start, beat Ramsay 60-48

By Johnny Sanders Sports Editor

TRUSSVILLE — The Hewitt Trussville Huskies welcomed the #1 team in the state in 5A boys’ basketball, the Ramsay Rams, into Bryant Bank Arena on Thursday night and sent them home with a loss. The game started slow for the Huskies, but they dominated the final three quarters of the game to get the big win heading into Christmas break.

“I’ve told the guys since I took the job that we are good enough to play with anyone in the state,” said Jeremy Monceaux, Hewitt’s head coach. “They are the number one team in 5A with a Division I prospect on the team and I don’t know if they knew we were good enough to go play with them. Then we got our feet under us and talked

through some things and settled in.”

The first quarter was a bit slow for the Huskies as Ramsay outscored them 1713 to start off. Ramsay used suffocating defense and sharp shooting to jump out to the lead. Hewitt’s Legion

Local players named to ASWA All-State football teams

From The Tribune staff reports

TRUSSVILLE — The Alabama Sports Writers Association announced their selections for All-State in high

school football this season on Sunday.

The list covers all classifications from the Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA) and the Alabama Independent School

Association (AISA). As expected, a number of Tribune area players were named among the best in the state. Named to the 7A First

Springville makes it to finals, falls just short in Fort Payne Tournament

By Johnny Sanders Sports Editor

making it to the championship game but falling just short to Campbell High School out of Smyrna, Georgia.

In game one, the Tigers took on the hosts, Fort Payne. Asa Morrison and Brodie

Fort Payne – The Wills Valley Shootout Christmas Tournament was hosted by Fort Payne High School this past week. Springville represented the Tribune area well,

Gaston hit a three-pointer as time expired to give Hewitt a spark heading into the second quarter. Ray Rolley also had a three-pointer in the period and Reid Stodghill added three points of his own with

Hewitt-Trussville quarterback Peyton Floyd throws a pass while on the run against Gadsden City on August 26, 2022. (Photo by Ron Burkett)

See HUSKY BOYS, Page 11

Photo by Johnny Sanders

Stock Photo

Team from Hewitt-Trussville High School were quarterback Peyton Floyd, defensive lineman Hunter Osborne, and defensive back Rickey Gibson. Huskies named to the Second Team were offensive lineman Donovan Price and placekicker Riley Rigg. Defensive lineman Tyrell Averhart received honorable mention.

Clay-Chalkville High School linebacker D.J. Barber was named to the 6A First Team. Cougar wide receiver Jaylen Mbakwe was named to the Second Team.

Defensive lineman Zi’keith Springfield of Pinson Valley High School picked up 6A Second Team honors, as well.

Named to the 5A First Team for Moody High School were quarterback Cole McCarty, wide receiver Davion Dozier, and defensive back A’mon Lane. Offensive lineman Mason Myers was named to the Second Team.

From Leeds High School, defensive lineman Kavion Henderson was named to the 5A First Team. Green Wave defensive lineman Chris Burge received honorable mention.

Local players sign letters of intent on early signing day

From

Frederick led all scorers in the 73-55 win with 14 points each while Ty Harrison was close behind with 13. Coach Brandon Easterwood said, “We were excited to play against the host school in the first round. We got off to a slow start but played together in the second half. Started making the extra passes and found our teammates.”

In the second round of the tournament, Springville drew the Orange Beach Makos. Riding the wave of success from the previous day, the Tigers defeated the Macos 6549. Ben Wood led all scorers with 14 points in this one, as Springville overcame another slow start on offense, but took advantage of a 23-point final quarter for the win. “A strong second half and fourth quarter carried us yet again. It’s good to see our team learning how to play from behind. I thought bench was the difference in this one,” said Coach Easterwood.

Husky Boys

a field goal and a made free throw.

The second quarter was a different story, as Hewitt began to settle in as mentioned before. The Huskies scored 19 while only allowing Ramsay to score 11. Ray Rolley led the way with eight points. The halftime score was 32-28 Hewitt.

In the championship game, the Tigers took on Campbell high school out of Smyrna, Georgia and came up just 2 points shy of winning it all. Campbell won 6664. Ty Harrison lit it up in this one, leading all scorers with 22 points, followed by Brodie Frederick with 17. But those two performances were not enough to pull them through.

“Campbell was a strong, physical team that made the plays when needed to win the game,” said Coach Easterwood. “We had a game winning shot at the buzzer with contact, but the call didn’t go our way. Hopefully we can learn from this and grow as a team.”

Overall, Easterwood was really impressed with Brodie Frederick, who is just a Sophomore. “Brodie Frederick played well. He is growing up every game. He has a high level of maturity and skill for a younger player.”

Springville heads to Guntersville on Thursday night to take on Etowah.

kies’ 17 points to finish the Rams off by a score of 60-48.

The Huskies had three players in double digits on the night with Rolley leading the way with 20 points. Smith followed with 17 and Gaston had 11.

By Johnny Sanders Sports Editor

Trussville - Wednesday morning was a big one for many young men in our coverage area as they signed to play college football at the school of their choice. The new early signing period gives student-athletes the opportunity to sign up early so

they can begin preparations for their football careers at the collegiate level. While the “late” signing day (the traditional one) is not until February, several players have opted to use the early signing day.

A total of 7 players signed their letters of intent on Wednesday morning with Moody and Hewitt Trussville

signing 3 players each and Pinson adding another.

Hewitt Trussville Defensive Lineman Connor Knight signed to play with the UAB Blazers, Wide Receiver Rickey Gibson signed to play with the Tennessee Volunteers and Defensive End Hunter Osborne signed to play with the Alabama Crimson Tide.

Pinson Defensive Back

The Huskies would come out of the locker room with defense on their mind. Ramsay would not score for the first half of the quarter and only put up 10 points to Hewitt’s 11. Rolley continued to be money shooting the ball as he was perfect for the frame with seven points. Huskies led 43-38 heading into the final quarter.

The fourth quarter would be the Karnell Smith show as he would have 11 of the Hus-

“We did the little things tonight. We didn’t have some of the mental mistakes we’ve had all season,” said Coach Monceaux. “This is a real important win for us. We’ve had a really good first semester. To have the tough losses we’ve taken and finish with a win right before we go to Christmas break is really big for our team. We played 17 games before Christmas. That is unheard of. So, we are going to get away from each other and away from the floor for four days and it’s nice to do that after a win.”

The Huskies improve to 12-5 headed into the much-needed break.

Moody quarterback Cole McCarty drops back for a pass against Leeds, Friday, October 14. (Photo by Ron Burkett)

Moody Quarterback Cole McCarty signed to play with the Kennesaw State Owls while Offensive Lineman Mason Myers signed with the Arkansas State Red Wolves and Davion Dozier signed to play with the Arkansas Razorbacks.

TJ Metcalf will join Dozer as an Arkansas Razorback signee.

Pinson Valley's T.J. Metcalf. (Photo from the AHSAA)