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On & Off-Road Spotlight SPECIAL SECTION

A special supplement to

The Trussbille Tribune April 2019

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On & Off Road | The Trussville Tribune

Courtesy Buick GMC

were friends and neighbors,” said Lolley. “Our dealer, Josh Gargus, is on the foundation’s board of directors, so our

Motors’ top-selling Buick GMC dealers in Alabama,” said Lolley, “and our diverse selection of Buicks, GMC

suitable for the daily commute and more. From sales to service, Courtesy’s 80 plus employees live up to the dealership’s name, and customers regularly praise the friendly, professional way they’re treated. And whether they’re in the market for a new or a preowned model, the same high level of customer service applies. “We set ourselves apart from other dealers by putting our customers first and maintaining a superior selection that’s second to none in terms of both quality and quantity,” said Lolley. “Those two things have consistently earned Courtesy repeat business from all over the Birmingham area and beyond.” Courtesy can also help its customers keep some of their hard-earned bucks in the bank. Factory incentives, in place on all new GM models,

ties to this organization are strong.” Affording Courtesy Buick GMC the privilege of community service is the business of selling automobiles, something the Edwards Lake Road dealership has been doing since 1995. “We’re one of General

trucks, and GM Certified PreOwned vehicles is one of the largest in the state. With over nine acres of inventory and a variety of price points, we have something for everybody.” Vehicle options range from rugged trucks to luxury SUVs to economical sedans

can save thousands of dollars. Additional savings are currently being offered on all remaining new 2018 inventory. “We can help you find exactly what you are looking for,” he said. “Stop by and see us.” Learn more at www.courtesybirmingham.com.

Local dealer is committed to serving customers and community A good company serves its customers. A great company serves its customers, as well as its community. Courtesy Buick GMC is a great company. “We’re all about community involvement,” said General Manager Drew Lolley. “Helping create a better community not only makes sense in terms of business, it’s also good for the people we serve. Everybody benefits.” And right now, local students are benefiting from Courtesy’s latest community focus, a district-level partnership with Trussville City Schools. “In January, we began contributing $50 to the school system for every vehicle we sell in 2019,” said Lolley. “Right now, we’re on track to contribute a little over $50,000 this year. I graduated from Hewitt, and I’ve got two kids in the system now, so this is something that really means a lot to me.” Within the partnership, Courtesy has created a schol-

arship fund, which will award one scholarship to a deserving male and one to a deserving

female at the end of the school year. A selection committee will determine the recipients. The partnership also provides for a percentage of the funds to go to the Trussville City Schools Athletic Foundation. Contributions are made monthly. Courtesy is additionally a supporter of the Will Bright

Foundation (WBF), recently serving as the presenting sponsor of the organization’s

2019 Restoration Run. WBF’s mission is to provide a secondary, transitional path of recovery for drug-addicted individuals who have completed an initial recovery program. The foundation’s namesake, Will Bright, died of an overdose in 2012 at age 25. His parents, Bill and Lisa Bright, started WBF in the

hope that lives can be saved in Will’s memory. “I grew up with Will. We

April, 2019

On & Off Road | The Trussville Tribune

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Take it to the streets, or off road with H&H Home & Truck Accessory Center

H&H is the “Southeasts’ leader in truck accessories” and it’s right here in our own back yard! “I’ve lived in Trussville my entire life so I know this area and I know a lot of these customers that come and see us,” said Hanby. “Chris Fredrick is our district manager.

From trailer hitches to pools and spas, H&H has it all and they can do it all! The family-owned and operated business has been around since 1987. H&H installs a wide selection of truck, Jeep, and offroad accessories to the greater Trussville and Birmingham area! Manager Jonathan Hanby said they sell and install, making your life easier. “We get real personal with our customers. We have very

He started the Trussville store from his truck. He built this store from the ground up. It’s a hometown company.” You have probably seen the rubber ducky off Interstate 59 in Trussville…that is one of H&H Home & Truck Accessory Center’s locations.

loyal customers, we service and do the installations. That sets us apart from Amazon or where you can buy things on the internet. You can buy it from us and we’ll put it on as well,” said manager Jonathan Hanby. H&H has 16 locations, five of those are in Central Alabama. The business also builds and installs portable buildings, including their very own wood buildings, above-ground pools and spas.

H&H OFFERS JEEP, TRUCK AND SOME ATV/UTV ACCESSORIES. FOR A COMPLETE LIST OF PRODUCTS GO TO WWW.HHSALES.COM.

Largest retailer of outdoor & truck accessories in the Southeast! Visit us online at www.hhsales.com For the latest deals & promotions visit www.hhsales.com/promos

Truck & Jeep Accessories • • • • • • • • • •

Truck Bed Covers & Tops Lift Kits & Suspensions Wheels & Tires Tool Boxes & Transfer Banks Bumper & Brush Guards Nerf Bars, Running Boards, & Steps Truck Bed Spray Liners & Mats Towing Products Cargo Management Trailers

• • • •

Outdoor Lifestyle

Spas & Hot Tubs Playsets Above Ground Swimming Pools Grills, The Big Green Egg Authorized Gold Dealer

Building & Carports

• Metal & Wood Storage Buildings • Carports & Enclosed Metal Structures • Greenhouses & Gazebos

LOCATIONS TRUSSVILLE 4460 Valley Road Birmingham, AL 205-655-7100

GARDENDALE 3522 Decatur Hwy Fultondale, AL 205-631-0711

HUEYTOWN 1501 Allison-Bonnet Mem Dr. Dolomite, AL 205-497-0030

PELHAM 3509 Pelham Pkwy Pelham, AL 205-664-8100

On & Off Road | The Trussville Tribune

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April, 2019

Cahaba Insurance Tailoring coverage to needs at comparable rates “Experience you can trust” is simply a catchphrase for some companies. But for others – Cahaba Insurance, for example – it’s a reality. With some 80 years of insurance experience among its super-knowledgeable team of three, Cahaba Insurance is a trusted source for fulfilling insurance needs. Founded by Lee Runnels in 1986, Cahaba Insurance soon came to include Patty Martin as his assistant. Over 30 years later, she continues to help customers, their families and their children’s families with their insurance needs, primarily in the area of Personal Automobile coverage. In 2004, Lee retired, and Frederick M. “Ricky” Dick became the principal of the company. Ricky has been in the insurance business since 1976 and like Patty, has helped generations of customers choose and maintain coverage options to suit their businesses or lifestyles and protect their assets. He can assist with almost any kind of coverage, including Commercial General Liability, Commercial Auto, Workman’s Comp, and rain insurance. Susan White Wood, who joined the team in 2009, specializes in Homeowners coverage, although she also helps customers with other types of insurance as needs arise. Susan is well-acquainted with Travelers products and their multiline program, and she regularly shows customers the money-saving benefits of bundling. Cahaba Insurance is a full-service, independent insurance agency, meaning

the company works for its customers, not just a single

insurance company. “Some people compare

our service to having a personal shopper with the

product being insurance coverage as opposed to

clothing or furniture,” said Ricky. “But whatever way you choose to look at it, everybody needs an insurance agent they know and trust. With the kind of experience and knowledge we have to offer, not to mention our strong, long-term connections with the Trussville area, Cahaba Insurance is an easy – and we like to think sensible – choice.” And since Cahaba Insurance is a sole proprietorship, customers can be assured of dealing one-on-one with actual people, not impersonal automated systems and frustrating wait times. Located at 11 Office Park behind the former Dairy Cone building (now Hitchcock Maddox Financial Partners), Cahaba Insurance is part of the current refresh-and-revitalize effort taking place all over downtown Trussville. “Lee recently sold the building, and the new owner has given it a facelift more in keeping with its surroundings,” said Ricky. “Just like insurance, our city is constantly changing, and we’re excited to be in the middle of it and watch it happen.” Cahaba Insurance, he said, offers competitive rates on all types of insurance, and free quotes are available for the asking. “We work for you, the customer,” said Ricky. “We represent lots of insurance companies, and we’re able to compare and shop for the best rates and coverage for you. Stop by and see us or call us for an appointment today.” For more information, visit cahabainsurance.com or call (205) 655-4626.

It’s car show season and visiting car shows with your best friend can be a time to make memories. Take the whole family from city to city this summer and bond over American muscle and classic customs.

A+ Tire & Auto Repair is a full-service preventive maintenance and automotive repair center. We perform high quality, guaranteed service you can trust at a fair price. • • • •

Preventive Maintenance Repairs Accessories & Lift Kits Tires & Wheels

(205) 661-3828 3620 Vann Road • Birmingham, AL 35235 www.aplustireandautorepair.com

You can spend quality time together and learn a lot about one another by sharing your individual opinions on the cars you see. People who go to car shows often end up seeing each other and lifelong bonds can form. April 20 Lt. Gen. Victor ‘Brute’ Krulak Detachment of the Marine Corps Leaguen proudly presents the 1st Annual Alabama Show ‘n’ Shine at the Hoover Metropolitan Stadium from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. All vehicles and motorcycles welcome. Fundraiser for Marines helping Marines in need. Live Band- ‘Smooth Operators’ Drawings, Raffles, Giveaways Easter Egg Hunt for the kids Car show entries are $30 Vendor spaces are $30 General Admission is free May 4 Fixin' Pets Charity Car Show Spay Neuter Jackson County Alabama is proud to host our inaugural Fixin' Pets Charity Car Show. Open to all custom, classic, street rod, muscle cars, and trucks. Pre-register for $15 or $20 day of show. Limited to 100 vehicles. FREE T-SHIRT INCLUDED WHEN YOU PRE-REGISTER YOUR VEHICLE! All of the proceeds from this event will be used to provide low cost spay and neuter surgeries for pets in Jackson County to prevent pet overpopulation. Rain Date: May 11, 2019 No admission or parking fee for spectators, but donations are greatly appreciated! May 11 Armed Forces Week Car, Truck & Bike Show Fort McClellan Credit Union, 1010 Golden Springs Rd, Anniston. HOSTED by VULCAN CORVAIRENTHUSIASTS (VCE) & Major General WATSON CHAPTER of the Chemical Corps Regimental Association (CCRA) Sponsored by Fort McClellan Credit

Union & Auto Custom Carpets Inc. Pre-Registration $15, (Forms will be passed out during major area Car Shows and Cruise-Ins) $20 Day of the Show! All proceeds go to Gary Harvey Veterans Christmas Program and other Veteran/Community Programs! Door Prizes, 50/50 Drawing, FOOD! MORE INFO: gtochief@gmail.com VULCAN CORVAIR ENTHUSIASTS Billy Cannon 256-743-0082 It’s our 2nd Annual car show hosted by Real Steel Garage of Moulton, Al. We will have awards, raffle drawing prizes, a swap meet, vendors, onsite pinstriping, bbq, iced/hot coffee, shaved ice, and music. CAR AND VENDOR APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE: contact Real Steel Garage. June 8 Join us for a car show from 9 a.m. - 12 noon at Vandiver Church Of God 13479 Co Rd 43, Vandiver, AL 35176. Entry fee is just $10 and 1 school supply item (glue sticks, crayons, pencils, etc.) Trophies awarded for Judged cars, trophies awarded for People's Choice. People's Choice will be $1 a vote with that you get a door prize ticket you can vote as many times as you like. June 29 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. The 27th annual Florala Car Show will be at the Rodney J. Evans Civic Center in Florala n conjunction with the 149th consecutive masonic celebration. The car show will feature first, second and third place winners, plus best in class and overall best in show, with different divisions for 1900-1941 cars and trucks, 19411962 cars and trucks, 1963-1974 cars and trucks, 1975-1990 cars and trucks, 19912017 cars and trucks, hot rods 1900-2017 and motorcycles. There will also be prize drawings. Entry into the car show is $20 and the first 50 to enter get a dash plaque.

On & Off Road | The Trussville Tribune

April, 2019

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Deerfoot Insurance Agency Serving customers and meeting needs since 2001 As the owner of an independent insurance agency, Bill Stuman has a lot of things going for him. His administrative and sales staff is second-to-none. He’s got strong product lines in brands like Progressive, Travelers, Met Life, Safeco and others. And his office location – in a rapidly growing area of Trussville – daily places him in a prime spot for doing business. But that’s not all. “The people we serve at Deerfoot Insurance Agency are the best,” he said. “Our customers are naturally the lifeblood of our business, but on top of that, the renewals

and referrals they give us are priceless. It’s what keeps our business strong and, in turn, enhances our ability to serve them.” So it goes without saying that Stuman and the entire Deerfoot Insurance staff daily strive to keep their customers happy in terms of both service and coverage. “We have a highly knowledgeable staff that works hard to find the best products at the best prices for whatever a customer’s needs are,” he said. “Whether it’s auto, home or business coverage they’re looking for, our customers know they can count

on us to give them competitive quotes and to include all the discounts they qualify for.” Multi-car discounts (when a customer insures multiple cars with the same company) and combined car/home insurance discounts are two of the discounts for which customers are often eligible. The son of two Allstate agents, Stuman was no stranger to insurance when he went into business for himself right out of college. He started the agency in Center Point in 2001 and moved to Trussville in 2003. Deerfoot Insurance is an

independent agency, meaning it’s not exclusively associated with any one national firm. Product offerings include personal lines, as well as commercial lines for families, individuals and businesses. And, said Stuman, he can help customers with coverage customers wouldn’t normally think of needing. Like wedding insurance, for instance. “If you’re hosting a big reception, it’s always a good idea to have liability coverage in case somebody gets hurt,” said Stuman. “Or you might want to have coverage in case of a postponement due to unavoidable circumstances, like the sudden military deployment of the bride or groom, for example. Weddings these days are often significant investments, and should unforeseen circumstances occur, losing rental fees, catering costs and other such expenses would be a big deal.” But, he cautioned, “Just having cold feet and backing

out doesn’t count.” Customers might also need coverage for uncommon items of value, and Deerfoot Insurance can help in those instances, too. What’s the most unusual item Stuman has ever insured? “It would have to be an Army tank,” he recalled. “A collector bought one to restore, and he needed to insure it, so we were able to help him out.” Deerfoot Insurance Agency is located at 8170 Gadsden Highway, Suite 108, northeast of downtown Trussville. For more information on coverage plans or to request a quote, visit Deerfoot Insurance online at www.deerfootins.com or call (205) 6551020. Hours are Monday through Thursdays, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. “Let us know how we can help,” said Stuman. “We look forward to assisting you with all your insurance needs.”

SAVE A BUNDLE WHEN YOU BUNDLE Your local Progressive Platinum agent can now exclusively offer annual policies when you bundle your home and auto with Progressive. Not only will you save time when you bundle, you’ll also save money. Find out how much you can save by contacting your local Progressive Platinum agent today for a free quote.

DEERFOOT INSURANCE AGENCY 8170 GADSDEN HWY 108 TRUSSVILLE, AL 35173

205-655-1020

www.deerfootins.com Auto insurance is provided by Progressive Casualty Ins. Co. & affiliates, Mayfield Village, Ohio, and in Texas by Progressive County Mutual Ins. Co. Progressive Home Advantage® insurance is provided by American Strategic Insurance Corp., another Progressive company. These companies may share information about you with each other. Home insurance not available in all states. Discounts not available in all states or situations. 16A00556.A1 5150768

On & Off Road | The Trussville Tribune

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April, 2019

Panos Automotive Service, a family tradition Panos Automotive has been in business in Trussville for 15 years. The business started in Roebuck back in 1983. Johnny Panos, the owner, started out in the parts business in 1974 and after buying a pipe bender and a welder, he quickly realized the opportunity in repair was making itself known. Nowadays, the sound of power tools, air compressors and car lifts moving up and down offer an atmosphere of concentration as the experts at Panos work throughout the day. You can smell the oil and exhaust that has become a lifestyle for those devoted to the business. The shop off Gadsden Highway in Trussville does everything from tire installation to complex engine repair. Panos also sells cars and offers motorhome storage. “We’re really a full-service automotive repair shop,” Johnny Panos said. Kellie Cheek, who has been a Panos Customer for over five years, said if not for Panos, she wouldn’t be on the road.

thing you don’t need,” Johnny Panos said. The technicians at Panos Automotive are all ASE Certified Technicians. There are five mechanics and one tire specialist in the shop. They work together in the 11 bays to keep customers satisfied. By his side for many years is Johnny Panos’ son Brian. The father and son duo run the office. One thing Brian Panos said he has seen in recent years is people diagnosing their own car problems over the internet. “Just like doctors, me-

“I have a vehicle because of this man. When my husband died, I went through a lot. I flipped my car and he made it to where I could have something to drive,” said Cheek. Panos is very well connected with his customers. It’s more than business for him, it’s connecting on a

personal level. That’s evident when talking to his clientele. “He’s very honest. When anybody else would tell you anything,” said Cheek, “he will tell you what’s imperative now and what you can wait on.” Johnny Panos agrees it’s important for him to take care of every car owner. “You get what you pay for. We’re not the cheapest but we’re not the highest. We won’t charge you for some-

chanics are under fire by the internet specialists. People think just because the internet says it that’s what it is, but really you could waste money buying parts you don’t need. Just bring it in and we will diagnose and fix the problem,” said Brian Panos. Panos Automotive is open Monday through Friday 7 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. at 6857 Gadsden Highway, Trussville. If you would like to make an appointment, call (205) 655-1527.

Complete Automotive Repair 6857 Gadsden Highway Trussville, Al 35173

205-655-1527

“Johnny and Brian have been working on our cars for years now. They're great, honest mechanics. This is a rarity in this day and age.” - Tee C. Johnny Panos - Owner Brian Panos - Manager

Monday - Friday 7:00 AM - 5:30 PM

Panosautomotive@gmail.com www.panosautomotive.com

April, 2019

On & Off Road | The Trussville Tribune

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Look good, feel good at USA Auto Collision

USA Auto Collision has been in Trussville for two years. The young business is growing as Domingo Sanchez builds on his reputation. Domingo and his wife Michelle work together to make sure everything gets done. She takes care of the financial part of the business while he does the labor. From prep work to painting, Domingo Sanchez can do it all. He takes great pride in his work. “He doesn’t take shortcuts and he’s very meticulous,” said Michelle Sanchez of her husband. Domingo Sanchez has been in the body business since he was a teenager. “I tell everyone that comes in. I have been training a couple of guys, when I see a car destroyed, I can fix it and look back and enjoy it. I feel proud.” Sanchez is I-CAR certified and he is certified in A/C, welding and he has a

state-of-the-art framing machine which he holds a measuring system certification for. “I’m not saying no other

body man can do the same thing I do, but I am saying I take my time to make sure everything is done right,” Domingo Sanchez said.

The shop is equipped with high-tech tools, a large spray booth, a welding machine and an A/C machine. One thing Domingo San-

chez enjoys doing is training younger people. He started in the business as a teenager and hopes to pass on his passion to others.

“My father took my brother and me to a shop when we were young and my brother learned there how to do body work. I was around it from a very young age,” Domingo Sanchez said. “I like to show the guys what I did to repair the cars to make it look like nothing ever happened to them.” Domingo Sanchez said he is in the business for more than money. “My passion is working on cars. I choose to do body work instead of my other options. It’s all about loving what you’re doing. You have to enjoy it.” USA Auto Collision accepts all insurance and they work with customers on pricing. “He does quality work and the biggest thing is he’s honest,” said Michelle Sanchez. When it comes to working together as husband and wife, Domingo and Michelle have a system that works. They take pride in their work and in their customers.

USA Auto Collision

Serving the Trussville and Surrounding Communities 10 years

205-757-8411 usaautocol@gmail.com

Family Owned & Operated

On & Off Roadâ€‚ |â€‚ The Trussville Tribune

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April, 2019

Big Names in the Automotive Industry From anythingaboutcars.com

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Buick, David A plumbing inventor and manufacturer built his first car in 1900. Cadillac, Antoine Founded the City of Detroit in the 17th century.

Chevrolet, Louis A Swiss race car driver and engineer built his first car in 1911 with financing by William Durant.

Chrysler, Walter A locomotive mechanic who got into the automobile business in 1912 and publicly displayed his own my first car at the 1924 NY Auto Show and selling an amazing 32,000 car in his first year.

Cord, E.L. As General Manager of Auburn Auto Company he produced some of the most advanced (frontwheel drive, supercharged V8's) and beautiful cars ever under his own name. Unfortunately, they were expensive and came along during the start of the Depression.

Daimler, Gottlieb can be considered as the founder of the automobile industry when he formed Daimler Motor Company in 1890.

cash to suit Henry. Durant always kept himself stretched thin with his money in stocks and other businesses. He lost everything in the Depression.

Dodge, John & Horace Their first car came off the assembly line in 1914. Both brothers died within less than a year of each other during the influenza epidemic in 1920. Durant, William A businessman, finance man, and salesman who was a self-made millionaire before ever joining the auto business. He was called on by the owners of the failing Buick Motor Company to help. He soon bought Oldsmobile, Pontiac and Cadillac and formed General Motors. He almost bought Ford, but didn't come up with enough

Duryea, Charles & Frank Built the first successful American automobile and the first to offer a production model for sale to the public.

Earl, Harley Designed the La Salle in 1927, the beginning of a trend towards lower and wider cars. As head of GM's styling department he invented the tail fin and designed the Corvette.

Ferrari, Enzo A mechanic, race car driver then race car team owner. His cars dominated racing for many years after WWII.

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Firestone, Harvey His tires went on the first mass-produced Fords.

Ford, Henry In creating the assembly line for automobiles he also created jobs for thousands and affordable cars for millions. What Henry did for automobiles spilled over into other consumer good.

Gale, Tom A Chrysler designer largely responsible for the current crop of Chrysler's design of cab-forward and curved styling on everything from the minivan to the Viper.

Goodrich, BF The company started in 1896 has many firsts: First synthetic rubber tire, first

tubeless tire, first American-made radial tire, the first space saver spare and the first "run flat" tire.

Goodyear, Charles Accidentally discovered the rubber vulcanizing process. He patented the process, but couldn't come up with any practical uses for it and died penniless in 1860. The Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company was named after him.

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Honda, Soichiro After WWII with $3,300 he started making motorcycles. Iacocca, Lee Responsible for the Mustang in the early 1960's and bailing out Chrysler in early 1980's.

Jellinek, Emile In 1900, while a Daimler Motor Works board member, Jellinek convinced Gottlieb Daimler to build a race car and name it after Emile's daughter, Mercedes.

M u r p hy, Ed w a rd Founded the Pontiac Buggy Company in Pontiac, MI in 1893. At the turn of the century he decided to switch to making "those noisy, smelly, unreliable automobiles."

Olds, Ransom His highly success ful "Curved Dash" runabout put Michigan on the map as a source of motor vehicles. He soon left his namesake company. Later he produced the first gasoline lawn mower.

Porsche, Ferdinand A design engineer who never created a car carrying his name. That was left to his son, Ferry, to accomplish.

Royce, Frederick & Rolls, Charles Engineer Royce and car dealer Rolls introduced their first car in 1904.

Sloan, Alfred Led GM to become the world's largest corporation. Responsible for the idea of yearly styling changes.

Tucker, Preston After WWII Tucker designed, built and promoted an innovative car with features, power, and aerodynamic design never before seen and at a very good price. His company folded after building 51 cars.