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By Nathan Prewett, For the Tribune
City LEEDS, Ala. – The Progress of being Leedsmade has announced is to repairs ata series of paving projects that the Leeds Primary School willmonths address 20itfull par10 after wasor struck tial lightning, streets in Leeds starting by said Superinthis week. tendent John Moore during The meeting $1,128,995 investa brief on Tuesday ment will use over 7 tons morning. SeeSee REPAVING, 3 LEEDS, Page 4
Leadership New owners Hewittof Dobbs Ford Trussville celebrate students present first year of community managing improvement dealership projects to By Chris Basinger, Trussville News Editor Daybreak Rotary
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. –
It has been a year of firsts By Diane Poole, for Dobbs Ford as new Special to the Tribune
owners Joey and Rachel Goshein recently celebrated TRUSSVILLE, Ala. – their first from year as Students themanaging Leaderpartners and as members of ship Hewitt-Trussville proSee FORD, Page 4 3 SeeDOBBS LEADERSHIP,
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Dear Grandson, Here’s What You’ve Missed Seth Edgil
6 Page 3
Pinson drops state championship to PaulofW.the Bryant Sean South
Page Page10 2
www.TrussvilleTribune.com
6 - -12 March 12 18
Leeds Progress announces being made at series major Leeds of Primary repaving School, says projects superintendent
THU
2025 2026
Trussville Irondale After prolonged political lecture Council The statewide hemp question passes $38 recognizes million budget, fromcomes Mayor Thomas, Springville Presidential to Trussville increases Award recipient garbage Council approves pay raise for police Melanie Dimler collection fees
Brady Flanigan, Editor
By TRUSSVILLE, Terry Schrimscher Ala. –
Following a discussion reSPRINGVILLE, Ala. – garding zoning, enforceThe ment,Springville and the City city’sCounrole cil took a detournew Monday under Alabama’s hemp night it returnedCity to law, before the Trussville unfinished business held Council tabled three hemp over from the Feb. 17 and meet-a retailer applications ing. After an extended work proposed 180-day moratosession and a night, short March break, rium Tuesday the 10. March 3 meeting began around p.m. was set to The 6:45 council As thethree meeting got unconsider applications derway, the council apfor Sunmed Your CBD proved the minutes Chelfrom Store Trussville, the meeting in February. sea last Blues Liquor, and The Mayor moHumbleDave HempThomas Shack, along tioned them to moratorireconsidwith afor proposed er memumtheonminutes future noting consumable bers motioned to adjourn applications throughout the before conducting business city. Under Alabama’s 2025 on thelaw, agenda without that hemp retailers wishing motion being products recognized. to sell those must Thomas then proceeded obtain a license from the to deliverABC a dissertation, as Alabama Board, with he called it, forasthea next 55 local approval mandaminutes, tory part ofcross-referencing the process. By political addressing the end ofhistory, the night, all four recent editorials, and quotitems had been pulled for ing Roosevelt, Jesus, laterTeddy review. andMayor Socrates way. Benalong Shortthe opened Although not by technically the dialogue explaininga filibuster, the lecture wasresdeto the council why this signed meetolution to satprolong before the them: the ing Thomas air Stateallowing of Alabama. The to State his at the lack of of displeasure Alabama and Alabama
House Bill 455, signed into cision made by the city that law byDave Governor Iveya lengthy requires these types of busiMayor ThomasKay delivers dissertation to members in Mayof the 2025. This new nesses be moved outTribune) of C-2 city council. (Terry Schrimscher/Trussville framework imposed a num- and C-3 zoning and operate focus city business. said.instead. “The ber ofonnovel rules on the ter,” out ofThomas C-5 zoning At burgeoning one point, hemp Thomas they to sethis byknowlrefusstate’s in- example Conveniently, challenged members of the ing to adjust salaries dustry—banning smokeable edge, he said, there wasn’t is no council to raise their hands about their faux martyrdom, hemp products, restricting C-5 zoning in Trussville. if theytoagreed never to sacrificing forpoint the that greater sales 21 and up, again limiting It is at this imleave meeting to before the good,” added. hemp aproducts 40 mg materialhelines begin having conclusion business. “The example set of THC perofpackage, andNoa tangible impacts. they Zoning hands raised. Along the way, was that if you an number of other regulations. classifications are make designed he said routed the council’s lack of error can’t be where corrected. It also all businesses to tell itbusinesses they leadership salaries would That the cannot error becomes dealing inonhemp products can and operate. Ifa be a burden the city.Board mistake,” he said. “But through theon ABC the category exists in now the “Thetocouncil windowbut to act has closed similar alcohol.had every the ordinance nowhere on opportunity to redress the as last it Wednesday, shackShort noted Trussville theofmap, tacitly carries the error but chose otherwise, thetonext administration currently has eight exist- ling power control their exiswanting to move on,affected show- with consequences of ing businesses tence the without needing the ing their frustration andalso the their actions,” he said.to ban by these changes. He real legal authority effectiveness filibusSpeaking TheofTribune pointed back of to the a 2023 de- them. In the to case Truss-
ville, that authority exists on a citywide scale. afterward, Thomas he Superficially, thesaid counjust needed to airwith his resofruscil was dealing trations because the lutions allowing the council sale of sometimes delays making hemp at three of, according decisions needs to make. to Short, itthe city’s eight He discussed his motion hemp stores—and then, toa add unaddressed itemsa from resolution imposing temthe February meeting to a porary moratorium blocking consent calendar for from apany additional stores proval. approach was applyingThat for up to 180 days. denied. Subtextually, it was conMany aother citiestoinforethe structing system Tribune coverage area apstall the growth of the whole prove non-controversial industry within city limits. items with President a single Jaime vote Council through a consent agenda,thea Anderson kept pulling procedural to conversationprocess back used to the reduce need for beneath discuspracticalthequestion sion meetings. all ofand it: lengthy what exactly were After re-introducing parthese stores now applying liamentary to thenot meetto sell that rules they were aling process, Thomas led the ready selling? council new busiCity through Code Enforcement ness which involved accepOfficer Chuck Bradford, tance for a new sewwho of hasbids handled complier project willstores, need ance checkswhich in these further action for question. financial called that a loaded decisions. The council Hemp products below also 0.3 renewed the city’s garbage percent THC are legal, he collection contract above with explained. Anything Waste Management. that veers into the territory Items fromThe thepoint Februof marijuana. of ary agenda the new statewere law, addressed according individually. The purchase to him, was to move these
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. PINSON, Ala. – May– AHoyt humanSanders skull and a left or counted tibiacitizens found by dog intoEast the of aPinson be Birmingham yearstorm are lucky after a last strong confirmed tocity haveonbelonged event hit the Feb. 26. to the samethe person, accordDespite damage there ing tono theinjuries, Jefferson County were which he Coroner’s Office. celebrated during a meeting ThePinson link was of the Cityconfirmed Council
See SPRINGVILLE, See HEMP, Page 2 5
SeePINSON, BONES, Page 5 4 See
By Chris Basinger, News Editor By Terry Schrimscher
TRUSSVILLE, Ala. Ala. – IRONDALE, City Council The Trussville Irondale City proclamation passed athe FY 2025-26during budTuesday get during night’s the first meeting regular honoring session Hewitt-Trussville monthly Tuesday High School teacher night, MarchPhysics 3. Although Melanie the fiscalDimler. year began in Oc-
AWARD, Page 4 3 SeeSee IRONDALE,
HumanCouncil bones Pinson found by talks storm local dogfrom are incident connected, Feb. 26 coroner says
By Nathan Prewett, From Tribune staff reports For the Tribune
HighBirminghamSchool freshmen Alabama Gov. Ivey Leeds Foxhound Bee Kay Company Former take action to address rising makes rare move in to bee-gin construction Southern campus school commuting death sentence forshootings U.S. Coast on new education center chosen
for Charles ‘Sonny’ Burton Guard Training Center By Tanna McGuire
portionately. “Doug Battle was bruBIRMINGHAM, Ala. – tally murdered by Derrick Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey has DeBruce while shopping in commuted the execution of a an auto parts store. But Deman on death row. Bruce was ultimately senOn Tuesday, Ivey antenced to life without parole. nounced that Charles L. BurCharles Burton did not shoot ton, 75, would instead serve the victim, did not direct the life in prison without the triggerman to shoot the vicpossibility of parole. He was tim and had already left the set to be executed Thursday store by the time the shootfor the death of Doug Battle Charles “Sonny” Burton. ing occurred. Yet Mr. Burton during a robbery at an AuFile photo. was set to be executed while toZone store in Talladega DeBruce was allowed to live in 1991. Despite not being in Alabama history to have out his life in prison. the man who A actually his sentence commuted “I cannot proceed in good conceptkilled of the new education center in from Irondale. (Foxhound Bee Company) Battle, Burton, also known death row. conscience with the execuBy“Sonny,” Chris Basinger, weeks, which tion opened Saturday. as was convicted of in the Iveycoming released the followof onMr. Burton under News Editor willstatement serve asregarding an expansion looking for a murder. ing com- such“When disparate circumstancfrom itsBurton’s current sentence: location in es. place to buildit our new In fact, the man who did muting I believe would bebeeunPark. keeping store, we continued Ala. Bee Hardware pullIRONDALE, the trigger and kill– Bat“I firmly believe that the just for one participant in this In addition to hear comments enthusiasts soon was be death tle, Derrick will DeBruce, penalty to is educationjust pun- crime to be executed about while how participant Irondale who was pulled doing al opportunities and STEM swarming to visinitially puttoonIrondale death row, but ishment for society’s most the programming, theas shown center the great things,” said founder it a new was later beekeeping resentenced educato life heinous offenders, trigger was not. willthealso sell a range of Adam tionprison centerwithout designed teach by in thetopossi25 executions I have “ToHickman. be clear, Mr. Burton products over sourced from bees, on for theparole projstudents and community presided bility of parole. as governor. In will“Everyone not be eligible including honey bees- and ect seemed to speak highly members about the world of order A Muslim, Burton’s to ensure the and continued will rightfully spend the wax, as well as death supplies for remainder of working pollinators.execution was set viability scheduled of the penalof with his lifeIrondale behind beekeepers. and for its hisleadership. So, Birmingham-based Fox- ty, to take place on Thursday, however, I also believe bars role in the robbe built across whenthat weled approached the hound Bee is preroughly oneCompany week before the thatIt awill government’s most bery to the murder from the all-new Ruffner paring to break ground on consequential end of Ramadan. action must be Sports Complex, SeeSONNY, BEES, Page 4 3 the Burton 5,000 square foot facility is the third person administered fairly andwhich proSee By Drew Taylor, WIAT
LEEDS, Ala. – Over the past 25 years, school shootings in staff the reports United From Tribune States have surged to alarming BIRMINGHAM levels, with a reported – Since 574 incidents occurring announcing the closing of between 2000 and 2025, Birmingham-Southern Colaccording to data lege, the search has from been Statista. Leeds High on for a Three suitable occupant. School freshmen, According to a news Amelia release Davis, Sen. Madilynn from Katie Johnson, Britt-R, and Beatrice McCormick, Alabama, the United States members of the Leeds High Coast Guard will purchase School Chapter of Future and convert the campus to a Career Community Leaders training center. of U.S. America (FCCLA), are Senators Britt and determined to address this Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.) pressing issue through their and Representative Robert state conference project. Aderholt (R-Ala.) today The U.S. young leaders have joined Department of not only Security compiled (DHS) critiHomeland cal statistics butNoem are also Secretary Kristi and working withGuard local (USCG) officials U.S. Coast and educatorsAdmiral to promote Commandant Kevstronger safety measures in Lunday in announcing the in schools. Their project, decision. which presented at BSCwill saidbeupon the closthe of FCCLA statetheconfering the sale, Coast ence in will March, to raise Guard takeaims possession awareness aboutcampus the devof the 192-acre on astating impact school Birmingham’s westofside and shootings and to propose ac-a will begin work refit it as tionable center changes improve training fortoUSCG ofsafetyand protocols Alabama ficers enlistedinpersonnel.
schools. Current federal require“Although we will alments grieve mandate schools ways thethat closing of perform lockdown inour beloved college inor2024, truder drills;theinsale Alabama, we believe of our public schools are required campus to the Coast Guard to conduct two such drills for this purpose – supportper semester. However, Daing the training, education, vis believes measures and ongoingthese development arethe insufficient andserve is adof people who in vocating for more frequent our nation’s premier mariand protection comprehensive drills. time force — is a “When outcome people’s for lives arecity, on terrific our the line, can’t do the our state,we and the just neighborbare minimum,” hood we called Davis homesaid. for “Schools take intrudmore thanshould 100 years,” said er drills seriously as they the Rev.asKeith D. Thompdo fire or tornado drills.” son, chair of the BSC Board Johnson echoed this of Trustees.
sentiment, emphasizing the emotional and psychologiBritt, who chairs the cal toll that Security school shootings Homeland Approtake on students and their priations Subcommittee, families. “You shouldn’t was instrumental in securhave top-level to worry approval about being ing of scared when said you’re just trythe project, Daniel B. ing to learn,” Johnson said. Coleman, BSC’s last presi“We need to make sure that dent. every feels safe and “Weschool are deeply grateful ready handle anything to Sen.toBritt for her leadthat could ership andhappen.” her tireless effortsMcCormick – along with highlightU.S. Sen. ed the importance of turnTommy Tuberville and U.S. ing awareness into action. Rep. Robert Aderholt, who “School shootings such is a graduate of theare College huge problem, andprojwe –a to ensure that this
See STUDENTS, 3 See BSC, Page 4
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Pictured: Beatrice McCormick, Madilynn Johnson, and Amelia Davis. Photo credit: BSC social media
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190 Main Street Trussville, AL 35173 (205) 533-8664 Scott Buttram, Publisher publisher@trussvilletribune.com Brady Flanigan, Editor trusstribeditor@gmail.com Terry Schrimscher, Interim Managing Editor tribunenews2@gmail.com Johnny Sanders, Sports Editor John Goolsby, Sports Editor news@trussvilletribune.com Sherry J. Parker, Marketing Executive & Photographer, sherry.parker@trussvilletribune.com Brannon Dawkins, Tribune Unscripted Producer & Account Manager
March 12 - 18, 2026
Sean of the South: Thin Mints and Thick Waists By Sean Dietrich
The Girl Scouts were setting up a folding table by the doors of the hardware store. “Omigod,” I said to the cashier. “It’s March.” The cashier looked at me flatly. “Debit or credit?” she said. “This is March,” I pointed out again. “Don’t you know what this means?“ She said nothing. “It means cookies,” I said. She cleared her throat. “Sir. There’s a line.” I paid for my wares, then hurried out to the Girl Scout cookies. I did a quick inventory check, using my cookie-sonar to investigate the boxes on the Scouts’ table. I was not looking for Trefoils or Do-si-dos, Tagalongs, Lemon-Ups, or Adventurefuls. Neither Samoas nor Toffee-Tastics. I was looking for a uniquely mint-chocolatey cookie
which is an American institution in and of itself; a cookie that tastes like I’m about to transition to wearing sweatpants full time. “Do you have any Thin Mints?” I asked the little girls. The girl who answered was very matter-of-fact. Her name was Mary Kate. And from the looks of her sash, she is an overachiever. “Yes. We have Thin Mints.” One of the Scout moms whispered. “Ask him if he’d like some.” Another Scout answered. Her voice was quiet. Her name was Amelie. She was also a highly decorated officer. “How many boxes?” she asked. I wanted to say, “I’ll take as many as you can sell me without losing your jobs.” But I showed restraint. I only asked for seven boxes. I am a big fan of the Girl Scouts. In a modern age
when nearly every classic American pastime is belittled and threatened, I like knowing the Girl Scouts are still kicking. This nation has lost sit-down family dinners, newspapers, even the sport of baseball has undergone modern rule changes. (There is no clock in baseball.) The Boy Scouts have been the victim of culture wars and bankruptcy. Dr. Seuss has been taken off the shelves. But the Girl Scouts keep going. The first Girl Scout cookies trace their origins back to 1917. There was a World War on, 20 million soldiers were dying overseas. The “Mistletoe Troop” in Muskogee, Oklahoma, started baking and selling cookies in a high-school cafeteria to raise money to send gifts to the troops. These soldiers would have been the girls’ brothers, uncles, and fathers.
6961 Gadsden Hwy Trussville, AL 35173 205-655-7049
The cookies became so popular by the 1920s that Girl Scouts all over the nation were using the same simple sugar cookie recipe to raise money. Back then, the cost of ingredients was about 25 cents per each seven dozen cookies. The girls would bake several batches in one afternoon, then sell these cookies at 35 cents per dozen. In other words, they were raking it in. By the ‘30s about 127 Girl Scout councils in America were holding cookie sales. By the ‘50s, the cookies were a national thing, baked in commercial bakeries, delivered door-todoor by hand. By the ‘60s all Americans wore sweatpants. The Scouts are still going strong today. Currently there are about 2.5 million Girl Scouts in 92 countries. In an average cookie-year, 1.7 million girl members will raise about $800 million. The remarkable thing about this is that one hundred percent of the money raised stays within local councils and troops, which makes the Girl Scouts of America a uniquely run organization. Especially when compared to, say, televangelism. The Girl Scouts support local food banks, help collect clothing and toys for shelters, aid in disaster relief efforts, such as Hurricane Helene, when multiple local troops tirelessly served affected areas, gathering supplies. So thank you, troop 28122 of Chelsea, Alabama. Not just for the cookies, and not just for the kindness your organization espouses. You’ve helped my waist size grow by at least two inches. Also, my heart.
March 12 - 18, 2026
The Trussville Tribune
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Local / Region
Keystone Financial: The Retirement Red Zone: Protecting What You’ve Built By Seth Edgil, Keystone Financial Group Sponsored Content
The five to ten years before and after retirement are often referred to as the “Retirement Red Zone.” In my experience, this is one of the most important periods in a person’s financial life. The decisions made during this window can have a disproportionate impact on longterm retirement outcomes. During your accumulation years, volatility is often something you can ride through. You are contributing to retirement accounts, earning income, and allowing time to work in your
favor. Historically, markets have recovered from downturns, though past performance is not indicative of future results. Time is typically the greatest ally of the long-term investor. However, as you approach retirement, the dynamics begin to change. One of the biggest risks retirees face is sequence of returns risk. This refers to the danger of experiencing negative market returns early in retirement while simultaneously withdrawing income from your portfolio. If a downturn occurs during the first few years of retirement, withdrawals may lock in losses and reduce the
portfolio’s ability to recover over time. For example, two retirees could earn the same average return over 20 years, but if one experiences losses early while taking withdrawals, their long-term outcome could be materially worse. That is why portfolio structure matters so much in this phase of life. The Retirement Red Zone is also when income planning becomes critical. Questions like when to claim Social Security, how to structure withdrawals across taxable and tax-deferred accounts, and how to manage Required Minimum Distributions all come into focus.
Tax efficiency can play a meaningful role in preserving retirement income. Additionally, healthcare costs and long-term care risks become more relevant. Many retirees underestimate how medical expenses may affect their financial plan. Evaluating insurance options and building appropriate reserves can help mitigate these risks. Importantly, protecting your portfolio does not necessarily mean abandoning growth altogether. Inflation remains a long-term threat, and maintaining some exposure to growth-oriented assets may still be appropriate depending on your indi-
vidual situation. The key is balance. At this stage, I often recommend stress-testing retirement plans under multiple market scenarios. We
look at withdrawal rates, asset allocation, income sources, and risk tolerance to determine whether adjustments are needed. The goal is not to predict the market. It is to build a framework that can endure uncertainty. If you are within five to ten years of retirement, this is not the time for autopilot. A thoughtful review of your strategy can provide clarity and confidence as you transition from accumulating wealth to generating income from it. Retirement should be about freedom and security. The work done during the Retirement Red Zone can help make that possible.
Springville plans Bigfoot themed 5K at Big Canoe Creek By Terry Schrimscher
SPRINGVILLE, Ala. – Trail runners will have a new event to enjoy next month when Springville hosts its first Biggie Stomp Trail Run 5k at Big Canoe Creek Nature Preserve (BCCNP) on April 11. Billed as a chance to “run through Bigfoot territory,” the new event is open to all ages and abilities. “The Biggie Stomp Trail Run will be a 5k run on a combination of two trails, Easy Rider and Slab Creek,” said Doug Morrison, preserve manager. “We are very excited to host trail runners and hope to make this a reg-
ular event.” The nature preserve will be closed to the public to accommodate the run and should open at noon. Participants can pick up run packets at the Old Rock School in Springville on April 10, from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. Packets will also be available at the race site the morning of the event. Registration for the run is now open online. Early registration is $35 but prices will increase to $40 April 1. A commemorative event t-shirt is included with early registration. Shirts will be available for purchase as well. Non-runners can still register as a shirt only par-
The Biggie Stomp 5K will take place on the Easy Rider and Slab Creek trails at Big Canoe Creek Nature Preserve. Photo: Terry Schrimscher
ticipant and support the mission of the preserve.
“Proceeds will go to our 501c(3), Big Canoe Creek
Preserve Partners,” Morrison said. “These funds can be used for a variety of things such as trail maintenance, wildlife conservation and outdoor education.” In addition to the main race, Biggie Stomp will also feature a Kids Fun Run at 9:15 a.m., providing younger runners an opportunity to participate in the nature run. Awards will be presented to the top three overall male and female finishers, as well as top male and female youth competitors. The top three Kids Fun Run participants will also receive prizes. All participants will receive a swag bag and Biggie Stomp dog tags.
BCCNP opened to the public in 2024 and recently leased space in the Old Rock School to use as administrative offices and a future nature center where it will hold outreach events, nature classes and more. The nature preserve has hosted events, like the Trispot Darter Festival and Christmas in the Pines, but the Biggie Stomp 5K is the first competitive run at the park. Big Canoe Creek Nature Preserve, located at 1700 Murphrees Valley Road, is a project of the Forever Wild Land Trust (FWLT) in collaboration with a wide range of public and private partners.
M E D I C A R E A D VA N TA G E
Medicare. Made Simple. Choosing Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama means having coverage that gives you peace of mind. Discover the benefits of our all-in-one Blue Advantage® (PPO) plans, designed to meet you where you are, with easy-to-use benefits and reliable healthcare options you can count on. With Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama, you’ll enjoy: • A partner dedicated to providing an easy healthcare experience — in 2025, our Blue Advantage plans received 5 stars for Member Experience with Health Plan and 4 stars for Overall Star Rating.1 • Access to 90% of doctors and 100% of hospitals statewide.1
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Scan the QR code to request your FREE Introduction to Medicare checklist.
Blue Advantage is a PPO with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in Blue Advantage (PPO) depends on contract renewal. Blue Advantage (PPO) is provided by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama, an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. 1 Every year, Medicare evaluates plans based on a 5-star rating system. Doctors refers to Medicare participating providers. Source: BCBSALMedicare.com/WhyBCBSAL 2 We are available Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. CST. From October 1 to March 31, the hours of operation are Monday – Sunday, 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. CST. You may be required to leave a message for calls made after hours, weekends and holidays. Calls will be returned the next business day.
H0104_NTM26Print_M
persons) and is being held
in the Jefferson Page 4 County Jail
with no bond. On July 13, 2024, Ashley (28), Berry (28), and Brooks (5) were shot in their car in the 1700 block of Indian
a vehicle. Following an investigation, BPD’s BPD’s Crime Reduction Team partnered with the U.S. Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force and the State of Alabama
Pardons and Parole to apprehend McGregor on Tuesday, Feb. 24 in the 900 Block of Von Dale Lane.
Bones
From front page
following a DNA analysis of the bones, though authorities still do not know the identity of who they belonged to. The coroner’s office has reported that multiple missStudents from the Leadership Hewitt-Trussville program visited the Trussville Daybreak ing person cases have been Rotary Club this week. ruled out by the DNA analysis as the identity of the remains. campus more easily. welcoming for commuThe skull was discovFrom • Hallway and direcnity members. ered front by page a homeowner on tory signage inside • An athletic equipment the shoulder of the roadway gram visited the Trussville Hewitt-Trussville High lending program through next to his residence near Daybreak Rotary this School to improve navthe Trussville Public Lithe 1300 block of Club 5th Place week present a series of igation for students and brary, allowing residents NW ontoAug. 20, 2024. community improvement visitors and to assist to check out recreational Investigators believe proposals designed en- formed first responders locatsports GPS equipment with an autopsyinon the Using trackers, offi-a the skull was movedtofrom hance safety, accessibility, ingand classrooms quickly card. the dog’s determined that cialslibrary have outlined its original location, which skull and recreation throughout victim emergencies. had been shot. roaming range, but searches remains unknown, to the the during the city. The students were • A pedestrian bridge Theareas students are curThe same dog found the of the frequently visproperty by the homeownaccompanied by their spon- second nearbone, the turf rently gathering feedback, er’s dog. a leftfield tibia, beon ited have not turned up any sor,The Amber Benson. hind Hewitt-Trussville additional identifyingremains. community partcoroner’s office per- Dec. 12, 2024. During the presentation, Middle School to safely ners, and exploring funding six student teams shared connect the field to the opportunities as they work ideas they have been develsidewalk and restrooms to move their ideas toward oping as part of the Leaderfor students, athletes, implementation. ship Hewitt-Trussville proand spectators. Members of the Trussgram. Each project focuses • Permanent road chains ville Daybreak Rotary Club on addressing practical needs along Husky Parkway welcomed the opportunity within the community while near Husky Stadium to to hear from the students encouraging collaboration replace temporary traffic and offer encouragement with local leaders, businessbarrels used during ath- and feedback as they contines, and organizations. letic events and enhance ue developing their projects. Proposed projects inboth safety and appearLeadership Hewittcluded: ance along the busy cor- Trussville is a program • Directional signage ridor. designed to help students for the parking lot at • Lighting, fans, and seat- develop leadership skills Hewitt-Trussville High ing at the pavilion by the while learning more about School to help students, pickleball courts at The their community and identivisitors, and event guests Mall to make the space fying ways they can make a navigate the growing more comfortable and positive impact.
Leadership
Notice is hereby given that Hand Service Company, Inc., 110 Greenbrook Dr., Hazel Green, AL 35750, has completed all work on the Well #17 and #18 Project 3-010-23 and 3-011-23, for Trussville Gas and Water. All persons having any claim for labor, materials, or otherwise in connection with this project, should immediately Irondale D. Stewart Jr. “We currentget an annual rate increase ly have a reserve fund of now.” about $11 million which, if Penningtonand explained notify the above named contractor tober, the council previously you’re familiar with the re- the city had paid $26 per ton approved a continuation of quirements or best practices for 15 years and it was inTrussville Gas and Water, 127 Main the 2024-25 budget to better by GFOA, they recommend creased in 2023 to $36 and prepare for the current fiscal that you have about 20% of continues to rise every year. ALrevenue 35173. year.Street, Trussville, your projected in In addition to the rising cost From front page
“We used to do this back in October. The concept, it’s a few years old now, of doing this after January because that is when a bulk of the funds are received,” said Council President David Spivey. “I really like doing this towards the end of first quarter. I think this has worked out well. We’re making many less assumptions about things.” The council approved eight budgets in the consent agenda including the general fund budget of $38.8 million with a projection of a $1.7 million surplus for the fiscal year. The council also passed budgets for capital funds, water systems, E-911, courts, two gas tax fund budgets and a Rebuild Alabama budget. “We’re projecting that the revenue this year will be around $38.6 million. The surplus is around $1.7 million,” said Mayor James
your reserve fund and we are close to about 27%,” he said. “Also, this year, we’re going to add what is called a sinking fund,” Stewart said. “The sinking fund will be used to make sure that we are putting money aside to meet our semi-annual debt payments but we will be funding it monthly and when it comes due the money will already be there.” In the regular agenda, the council also approved a $3 monthly increase in trash collection fees, raising the monthly price per household to $33. Business rates will increase to $58 monthly. Frank Pennington, public works director, explained the cost of providing the service has increased for the last several years. “There are only a few owners of landfills in Alabama, they have a monopoly on garbage rate increases,” Pennington said. “We
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wound. Center Point Fire and Rescue responded to the scene and transported the victim to UAB Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. From front page According to the sherIn June of 2025 the school suffered extensive damage when it was struck, largely due to the amount of water that poured through openings in the roof. Part of the roof has now been reroofed, Moore said. A portion of the gym has also been reroofed. Damaged insulation in the building will be replaced with materials set to arrive later From Tribune staff reports this month. Moore announced that LEEDS, Ala. – Police ACT testing will begin after in Leeds are asking for the spring break. public’s help in identifying Additionally, the board an individual believed to be accepted a $75,000 bid for involved with an organized a project raise a slightretail theft to investigation. ly sinking area a field at “The Leeds of Police Department requests the public’s assistance in identifying this individual,” officials said on social media. “He is front page aFrom suspect in an Organized Retail Theft Investigation. of Doug Battle. He will now If you recognize this receive the or same punishment individual have any inas the triggerman. formation about this crime, “Thecontact murder of StopDoug please Crime Battleof was senseless and pers Metroa Alabama.” tragic crime, and this deciCrimeStoppers of Metsion does not diminish the profound loss felt by the Battle family. I pray that they may find peace and closure.” Over the last few weeks, nationwide attention has zeroed in on Burton’s case, with many asking Ivey for clemency. “We are grateful that Governor Ivey recognized that Charles ‘Sonny’ Burton should not be executed,” said Laura Porter, executive director of the U.S. Campaign to End the Death Penalty, in a statement. “The death penalty process is deeply flawed when someone who was not present for the killing faces execution, while the person who committed the murder does not. It is uplifting to see
The Trussville Tribune Jacorrian McGregor
of trash disposal, Pennington cited ADEM grant funding reductions, rising costs of trucks, vehicle service, staffing and insurance as reasons for the increase. Irondale, unlike many of the cities in the Tribune coverage area, provides trash collection and recycling services internally rather than outsourcing to a contractor. “For us to be able to sustain the service we need to be able to sustain and be good stewards, I’m asking for a $3 a month rate increase. I apologize because I hate to do this but for us to provide you the service that you expect, and we want to give you, I have to ask for it,” Pennington said. The next meeting of the Irondale City Council will be held at 6 p.m. on March 17 at Irondale City Hall. An agenda for the meeting can be found on the Irondale website prior to the meeting.
Leeds
iff’s office, the preliminary investigation revealed that a verbal altercation between the victim and a male security guard occurred, resulting in theHigh guard shooting the Leeds School that him. Moore said was multipurThenamely security repose, usedguard for band and sports practice. He said that the project will clean the area and “make it usable for everybody” and will begin this month. Chief Financial Officer Ryan Miller gave a report for the month of January. During that month the district received 58.34% of the general fund revenues and 87.01% of the local revenues, which was up 43.18% from that time of 2025. Expenditures and other fund uses in the general fund were 40.68%, over a target of 33.33%. Accounts payable were $482,029. Gross payroll expenditures $1,386,834. The month
portedly remained at the
scene and with March 12cooperated - 18, 2026 deputies.
At this time, there have been no arrests or charges filed the case. was in ended with an excess The case isover still under inof revenues expendivestigation. tures of in the general fund of $4,770,098. The unreserved fund balance was $14,230,207. In other business the board: • Updated its wellness policy and • Agreed to engage Keller North America to repair the sinkhole at the Leeds Middle School.
Leeds PD ask public to help identify organized retail theft suspect
Sonny
BSC
From front page
ect remained a top priority in Washington,” Coleman said. According to Britt, last November, the USCG announced a Request for Information and market research to identify a potential new training center location following record-breaking recruiting numbers. The USCG and DHS outlined several key requirements for the new facility, criteria that the BSC campus, which closed in May of 2024, not only meets but exceeds. “Today’s announcement is further proof that this is the most exciting time to join the Coast Guard in 235 years,” said Secretary Noem. “Thanks to President Trump’s visionary leadership and historic investment in the Coast Guard,
Meetings generally take place every second Tuesday at 10 a.m. at the Leeds Board of Education Building located on 1517 Hurst Avenue. Nathan Prewett can be reached at nthomasp6@ gmail.com.
that more and more gover- she, too, moved his sentence nors across the ideological to life in prison without the spectrum are recognizingPhotos possibility of of parole. released the suspect. problems with death penalty “In short, I am not concases.” vinced that Mr. Myers is a retail theft ro Alabama also released Department, Demetriusabout Minor, innocent, on but February I am not 23, so information theexecuinci- occurred tive director of Conservatives 2025 convinced his guilt as of to in theof8900 block dent. Concerned, alsotoweighed in Weaver approve Avenue of his execution. in Leeds,”I “According a report on Ivey’s decision spare the therefore must respect both organization reported. filed with the LeedstoPolice Burton’s life. the jury’s decision to convict “Detectives obtained these “We want to thank Gov- photos him andfrom its recommendation video surveilernor Ivey for granting clem- lance that heand be sentenced life are askingto the help with ency for Charles ‘Sonny’ public withoutfor parole,” Ivey identisaid at the person shown.” Burton,” Minor said in a fying the time. If you Myers, recognize statement. “This brings treBefore the this last or have any in-a mendous relief to his family individual, time a governor commuted this crime, and so many across the coun- formation sentence onabout Alabama’s death contact Stoptry. Conservatives know please row was whenCrime Fob James of Metro Alabama. You that government power can pers commuted Judith Ann Neelmay remain anonymous, be abused and should not ley’s execution in January be used to execute someone and 1999.if your tip leads to an you could receive 83 a who was not in the building arrest, Alabama has executed reward of up to $5,000. when the murder was com- cash people on death row since mitted. Governor Ivey acted the death penalty was reinon these conservative princi- stated by the U.S. Supreme ples.” Court in 1976. The state exThe last and only time ecuted five people in 2025, Ivey has commuted a death tying with Texas and South sentence since taking office Carolina in being second in in 2017 was that of Rocky the nation in executions, beat Myers, who was set to be put only by Florida, who executto death last spring before ed 19 people that year.
the Service is shattering records across the board — including in recruitment. Last year’s recruitment exceeded 110% of active-duty enlisted goals, and the Coast Guard is on track to add 15,000 new members by 2028. This next generation of heroes deserves training centers and support facilities worthy of their mission, and that is exactly what they are going to have in Alabama.” Britt said the announcement marked a great day for Birmingham and the U.S. Coast Guard. “I have long been dedicated to strengthening Alabama’s military installations and the warfighters they serve,” Britt said. “This exciting announcement further positions Alabama as a national leader in supporting our incredible U.S. Armed Forces and law enforcement personnel. I am deep-
ly proud to have advocated directly to Secretary Noem for a new training center in Birmingham to support our outstanding Coast Guard personnel, especially as the USCG continues to recruit service members to combat 21st century threats.” For Aderholt, a BSC grad, it was especially gratifying to see the campus returned to use. “As a proud alumnus of Birmingham-Southern, it is important to me that this campus continues to serve those seeking to learn and improve their lives,” said Aderholt. “I’m confident the United States Coast Guard will do exactly that. I want to thank Senator Britt for her partnership as we worked together to encourage the Coast Guard and the White House to ensure this campus remains an important footprint in Alabama.”
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The Trussville Tribune
March 12 - 18, 2026
Pinson
Hemp
on Thursday night. “We had so much fortune in the misfortune,” he said. “It is nice to be one block away from your public works yard and your city hall when you have that sort of thing and all of our equipment.” Extensive tree damage was reported along with downed power lines and damage to dozens of homes. Jefferson County Roads and Transportation workers have been clearing debris throughout the streets, Sanders said. He estimated that around 31 firefighters and emergency medical service technicians responded to the incident. “I could not have imagined any better response,” he stated and added that surrounding communities offered help. Center Point Fire Chief Brandon Dahlen later delivered a report saying that the department responded to 843 calls in February, with five being structure fires. He mentioned a commercial fire that took place at the vacant Woodside Apartments complex in Center Point on Feb. 13. He then spoke about the weather incident last week, saying that at first it was speculated by residents that a tornado had struck but was later found to have been strong, straight-line winds. “It was a very chaotic scene,” he said. “And our folks responded appropriately and I think we did an outstanding job altogether, not just our department but everybody that helped out.” He encouraged the public to download weather emergency apps, which can be downloaded at www.jeffcoema.org. Dahlen also debuted a new fire engine for the department that arrived recently. The engine was purchased three years ago for
products into more regulated territory so packaging, labeling, and THC content would be clearer than they had been. Bradford said every Trussville store the city sampled except one had at least one product that exceeded the legal limit. Yet none of those violations had led to criminal charges. Bradford said district attorneys had been reluctant to pursue them, as responsibility was difficult to assign. Who is guilty? The store owner, employee, supplier, manufacturer, the label on the package? Or was it the social institutions themselves asking those very questions? It was a pursuit as intractable as smoke. Everything drifted into technicalities. He suggested the city probably could have pushed on the business side, targeting licenses, but has refrained as they waited to see how the state would handle it. That may be the strangest part of the whole matter. By Bradford’s account, these were, in the technical sense anyway, illegal products—formally equivalent to marijuana. Yet the possession of none of them had occasioned any meaningful consequence. These goods were living in a long twilight where a thing can be prohibited on paper, common in practice, too chemically technical, too administratively sloppy, or too burdensome to be chased down and eradicated. That irony painted Tuesday night’s discussion. The City Council was not simply being asked to approve three applications. It was being asked to veer into the legal and existential constitution of a market that, by the city’s own account, had already been crossing legal lines for years with little appetite to rectify it. Rather than prosecute away
From front page
From front page
Pinson residents and officials see the new engine purchased by the Center Point Fire District. Photo by Nathan Prewett.
$850,000, though he noted that it was considerably cheaper than one that can be bought today for as much as $1 million. It was brought to the parking lot of city hall for viewing after the meeting. Additionally, Clay-Pinson Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Ronnie Dixon presented two checks to Pinson Elementary School Principal Gerolyn Woodruff. Dixon gave a check of $1,000 for the school to hold a rally in anticipation of ACT testing next week. He said that different schools will be encouraging students to give their best efforts in various ways and so the chamber granted the funds for her to buy prizes. Woodruff was also presented a $20,000 check to refurbish or replace the aging sign at the school. During public comments Adam McAllister and Scott Burdette spoke at length to promote disc golf in the city. Afterwards James Vining voiced his concerns about potential liability with people staying past the closing time at the park where disc golf is played. Vining asked who would be liable if anyone is hurt playing the game late at night. He also pointed out that fees have to be paid for events at the park and people have to be out by 8 p.m., asking if this would be extended for anyone else. Sanders replied that it would be “case by case” and depends on the event. Vining pressed his point about disc golf players being
out past 8 p.m. when citizens are “told” to leave, though Councilor Dawn Tanner disputed this and said that while gates are locked people can walk there at night and some are allowed to be there late for special events. Councilor Tracie Thompson suggested possibly taking the gate down. Sanders disagreed with that suggestion. In other business the council: • Approved a zoning change request for a property on Dewey Heights Road from Jefferson County A1 to City of Pinson District RR (Rural Residential) • Accepted the bid for a bucket truck for $42,200 • Renewed a credit line with Regions Bank and obligated $500,000 for emergencies • Annexed properties on Tyler Loop Road and Briarwood Circle • Renewed its contract with the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office • Accepted a quote for IT hardware replacements and upgrades for $19,069.50, and • Authorized $4,000 for Pinson Valley High School baseball supplies Pinson City Council meets on the first and third Thursdays of every month at City Hall on 4410 Main Street. Live-streamed meetings can be seen on the city’s Facebook page. Nathan Prewett can be reached at nthomasp6@ gmail.com.
Page 5 the problem, the city’s solution was to regulate its way around it. Alabama did this last year with HB 445. The law did not fling the market open. It narrowed it. Consumable hemp products were placed under the Alabama ABC Board. Rules about testing and labeling were instituted. Retail stores were restricted. Smokable hemp products were banned. Online sales once more became underground sales, and civil penalties were cemented into law. The law also requires that local governing-bodies approve before the ABC Board issues a retailer’s license, which is how the issue appeared before Trussville to begin with. What sat before the council was not merely three applications and a moratorium. It was a sole winemaker pruning the muscadine it had let grow in disguise for years—now boxed in by zoning divides at the edges of his own vineyard. It has an old Southern smell to it. After the 21st Amendment, Southern municipal laws settled into patchwork: wet here, dry there, with exceptions for everything. It was a restrictive system driven by philosophies now as oblique as they are remote. Not pure legality, not pure prohibition. The hemp situation carries some of that blood in it. A product technically illegal, practically everywhere. A business technically allowed, practically driven from town. A law by the
measures of paper, waiting to see if anyone still means it. Councilman Brian Jackson suggested the city needed more time to work through zoning, process, and legal grounding. Councilman Jim Miller noted that Chelsea Blues Liquor appeared to raise a different zoning issue from the existing stores because it sits in C-2 as a functioning liquor store and was not part of the grandfathered problems others were. Short ultimately said that if the council was going to pull one of the items, it made more sense to pull all of them, including the moratorium. So that is what happened. Rather than approve the applications, deny them, or freeze future ones, the council tabled the entire matter for later review. Short said City Attorney Rick Stotser would take a closer look and encouraged council members to speak with Bradford and the affected business owners before it returns to the council. Trussville left the issue where it found it, tangled among state law and local reticence, what the rules say and what anyone seems prepared to enforce. The council did not say yes Tuesday night. Yet, neither did it say no. Staring toward a market marred by complicated chemistry, puerile politics, and a lessthan-subtle zoning system, it decided in fine fashion to hold off on the questions until it had learned a little more.
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The Trussville Tribune
Page 6
Opinion
March 12 - 18, 2026
Hell hath no fury like an Alabama Republican scorned By Jeff Poor
The Alabama Republican Party elected Scott Stadthagen as its new chairman last week. It marked the first time since former chairwoman Terry Lathan was elected in 2015 that the state’s GOP had a competitive contest for who would be the face of the dominant political party in Alabama. The circumstances were a bit unusual because the chairman’s election in Hoover was an extension of the festering drama coming out of the Alabama State House about an ousted House Majority Leader, leaked audio, and control of a power structure that few outside the state’s political bubble care about. What made it unusual was a hyped-up palace intrigue that began over alleged dissatisfaction with Stadthagen’s performance as majority leader over the past three years and an underlying friction between Stadthagen and House Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter. Stadthagen vacated his leadership role in the Alabama House of Represen-
tatives to seek the ALGOP chairman’s role. He defeated two formidable opponents, former Secretary of State John Merrill and long-time party stalwart Joan Reynolds, the vice-chairwoman of the party. Ultimately, he defeated Merrill by 24 points in a runoff vote by the state executive committee’s 475 voting members. His victory came out of nowhere. Six months ago, no one would have expected a leadership change in the ALGOP. There had been speculation about the party’s former chairman John Wahl seeking Alabama’s open lieutenant governor’s office. But those had seemed dead until President Donald Trump endorsed the previously unannounced Wahl, which opened up the ALGOP chairman’s role. Stadthagen’s decision to seek ALGOP chairman set off a series of events that would not quite live up to the drama of an episode of “House of Cards.” Still, it would offer the most political theater since the fall of Mike Hubbard. At least one House Republican was dissatisfied with Ledbetter’s leadership
to the extent that he or she would risk their standing with their colleagues to record closed-door discussions about Stadthagen seeking the ALGOP role. If you haven’t heard by now, in the audio, the public got a rare and candid perspective of how legislative leadership addresses its members. It’s no secret that the Alabama House of Representatives has a high school feel. Different cliques populate the hallways of a dilapidated structure with the phony pleasantries one might expect in an adolescent setting. At times, they can be outright vicious about one another. But in the end, they come together to somehow
function under the leadership of the all-powerful faculty lounge known as the House Speaker’s office, which consists of the speaker’s loyal staff, a handful of lieutenants and Nathaniel Ledbetter himself. There is nothing unusual about this combination of human nature and legislative politics. In most cases, the lower chamber requires a command-and-control approach to get things done. At times, it can be ugly and is not meant for public consumption. However, leaked audio of Ledbetter declaring he could give a [expletive] about the Republican Party while apparently in the middle of what ended up being a forced ouster of Stadthagen as majority
leader, gave the public, and more importantly, members of the state Republican Party, a reason to care. Sure, as Ledbetter would explain, the context was compared to his giving an [expletive] about the House Republican caucus. Regardless, it was still a statement by Ledbetter that seemed to demean a group of people who, more than a decade earlier, had to seek a special exemption to even run as a Republican in the first place. Ledbetter, who had recently run as a Democrat, was granted an exemption by the ALGOP to run on the Republican ballot in 2014. The remarks were not received lightly. Some ALGOP members organized an “oust Ledbetter” movement to strip him of his standing with the Alabama Republican Party, which could have threatened his House Speaker position. Ledbetter was apparently aware of that possibility because, for the past week and a half, he had been calling in favors from across Alabama politics. That included a social media post from Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) praising the House
Speaker, a letter signed by all 75 House Republicans vouching for him and a pro-Ledbetter op-ed bylined by Gov. Kay Ivey. All of that took place within days of last Saturday’s Republican Party meeting at the Wynfrey Hotel in Hoover. The meeting came and went without Ledbetter’s standing with the party being threatened. However, the door was left open, leaving the possibility of retribution against the House Speaker for his comments. A petition circulated throughout the body opened the possibility of a so-called special meeting if the Alabama Legislature did not close the state’s primaries by requiring party registration. Such a feat will be a heavy lift as the 2026 legislative session winds down and lawmakers turn their attention to election politics. Ledbetter and his allies can easily muster the votes to get something through the House of Representatives. However, can the House Speaker use his sway to get action on such a demand in the Alabama Senate? If not, we could be revisiting this in a few months.
The Trussville Tribune
March 12 - 18, 2026
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Page 7
Calendar
Local Meetings ● Trussville City Council Meetings: 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m., City Council Annex ● Trussville Board of Education Meetings: 3rd Monday of each month at 6 p.m., TCS Central Office ● Clay City Council Meetings: 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. ● Pinson City Council Meetings: 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. ● Center Point City Council Meetings: 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month, at 6:30 p.m. ● Argo City Council Meetings: 2nd and 4th Monday of each month at 5 p.m. ● Springville City Council Meetings: 1st and 3rd Monday of each month at 6 p.m. ● Irondale City Council Meetings: 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. ● Leeds City Council Meetings: 1st and 3rd Monday of each month at 6 p.m. ● Moody City Council Meetings: 2nd and 4th Monday of each month at 6 p.m. ● The M.W. Hosey American Legion Post 205, Clay-Trussville, meets on the 2nd Monday of each month at 6 p.m. at the Clay Community Center. Meetings are open to all veterans. Post 205 also meets on the 3rd Thursday of each month at 6 p.m. at the Trussville Applebee’s for a Veteran’s Pub night. Children’s Storytime Thursday, March 12 9:30 a.m. – 10 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Trussville Library LBK Auditorium March 12th: St. Patrick’s Day. Join Ms. Alicia for stories, songs, bubble time, and lots of fun! The event will be held in the library auditorium every Thursday at 9:30 & 10:30 a.m. This story time is designed for preschool-aged children and their families! Please plan to attend and be engaged with your child for this program. No snacks allowed at the program. All preschool ages. Every Thursday at 9:30 & 10:30 a.m.
YA - D&D Adventures Rise of Tiamat Thursday, March 12 4:00pm - 5:30pm Trussville Library Parkway Room 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 limited. Please only sign up for one of the Teen D&D groups or the other. This campaign will be continuing our adventure that’s full of dragons! Please try and coordinate with friends to end up in the same groups. 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. Snacks and refreshments are provided at the event. This is group is more beginner friendly. (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). Teen-Homeschool Hangout Thursday, March 12 1:00pm - 2:00pm Trussville Library Cahaba Room A place for homeschool teens to hang out, socialize, and play some games. (6th-12th). Are you a homeschool family with teens looking to hang out with other teen homeschool families? Join this dropin event in the library’s meeting room (Cahaba) to socialize and play board games. You are welcome to bring your own activities to share with others, too. We’ll provide a light snacks and drinks. Come and hang out! (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) Cult Classic Cinema Thursday, March 12 5:30pm - 8:00pm Trussville Library LBK Auditorium March 12: The Shining [R]. An evening highlighting the other half of Trussville’s Core Collection of movies: Cult Classics. Come and watch cult classic movies in the library auditorium! On the second Thursday (usu-
ally) of every month, we’ll be showing a movie that, at least by us, is considered a “cult classic.” Popcorn and snacks will be provided. Dungeons and Dragons - Club Friday, March 13 4:00pm - 5:30pm Trussville Library LBK Auditorium The Teen Department is hosting a Dungeons and Dragons Club for people interested in the game. Join us to make characters, learn about the game, meet other players, and most importantly go on adventures! This club will feature shorter adventures and newer players. No experience or supplies are needed. Snacks and refreshments are provided. Plant Swap Monday, March 16 6:00pm - 7:00pm Trussville Library LBK Auditorium Exchange houseplants with others. Do you have too many plants, or want to give them a try? Join us for trading houseplants, sharing tips and tricks, and getting to know other houseplant lovers. Bring a pest-free, beautiful plant, or two or three for trade; they can be potted, bare root, or loose cuttings—as long as you’re prepared to part with them. Biggie Stomp Trail Run 5K Saturday, April 11 8 a.m. Big Canoe Creek Nature Preserve, Springville We’re excited (and maybe a little muddy already) to announce the inaugural Biggie Stomp Trail Run at Big Canoe Creek Nature Preserve! This brand-new event is perfect for trail runners, families, and anyone who loves the outdoors. 5K Trail Run – 8:00 AM | $35. Kids Fun Run – 9:15 AM | $10. T-Shirt Only Option – $25. Pre-registration closes April 1st; Price increases after April 1st. T-shirt order ends on April 1st as well. All proceeds benefit Big Canoe Creek Preserve Partners, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit supporting the preserve’s mission. If you’re interested in sponsoring (or know someone who might be), email lcleaver@cityofspringville.com—we’d love to partner with you! Lace up, stomp the trails, and help us kick off a new Springville tradition.
LEGAL NOTICE: To all parties seeking to make a claim. Toro, Luis Eduardo is doing business as LUIS EDUARDO TORO and all derivatives thereof. Notice of fee schedule(s): Each and every use not authorized by Toro, Luis Eduardo requires a $15,000.00 USD fine payable to: LUIS EDUARDO TORO within 30 days of notice and the fines must be settled in full. In order to authorize, contact must be made with the Name Holder for a contract to do so. Failure to timely notify the name holder, produces an agreement that the user’s contract is invalid. Additionally, this notice is retroactive. All parties prior to this notice must contact the Name Holder within 180 days of this notice for an update to the contract. Be advised that this notice is applicable to the use of each and every account associated with LUIS EDUARDO TORO and all derivatives thereof. A written request must be, signed under penalty of perjury and sent to the Name Holder at Care of: 109 Glen Cross Circle, Trussville Alabama 35173, all other deviations will be returned as invalid to sender.
The Trussville Tribune
Page 8
Glenn Franklin Edwards
March 12 - 18, 2026
O b i t u a ry
november 4, 1967 — february 16,
2026
Dolores W. Smithson
january 7, 1935 — february 28,
2026
Glenn Franklin Edwards, born on November 4th, 1967 was called home on February 16th, 2026. Glenn was a God fearing man who lived his life sharing the word of God with everyone that he knew or came across. Spreading God’s love was his greatest passion that he took great pride in. He was a loving son, father, husband, brother, and friend. His family was the joy of his life and the center of all he did. Glenn had many hobbies and interests never doing anything halfway, especially when it came to loving those closest to him. He was an aviation enthusiast, sports fan of all, and a man who loved this country. Glenn kept this constitution in his bible and that was just the man he was, proud of where he came from and who guided his life. Glenn will always be remembered as someone who loved, honored, and gave his life to our Creator.
Dolores Williams Smithson passed away February 28, 2026. She was married to William M. Smithson (deceased 1998) and had four sons: Richard Lee Smithson (Brenda, d. 2014), Randal Allen Smithson (Minnie), Ronald Carl Smithson (Lindy) and Russell Earl Smithson (Tina).
Survivors include his wife Melissa Edwards: four kids, Donald Edwards and wife Karley Houk, Sarah Franks and David Franks, Katherine Edwards, Abigail Levesque, his mother Janet Edwards, brother Jason Edwards. Proceeded by Donald Edwards Sr. and Jeff Edwards.
After retirement, she spent a considerable amount of time traveling the world, engaging in various Christian mission projects, and volunteering as an aid in disaster relief with the Southern Baptist Convention. She continued to devote her life to Christ until the very end, financially supporting various ministries and spreading the gospel.
Stephen “Steve” Larry Tolleson
december 29, 1945 — february 25,
2026
STEPHEN LARRY TOLLESON, age 80 of Palmerdale, Alabama passed from this world in his home on February 25, 2026. Steve was born December 29, 1945 to Myrtle and Hubert Tolleson. He was raised on the family dairy farm in Pinson, Alabama. After attending school in Pinson and Trussville he jointed the Air Force and served 5 years. He married Melanie Moore December 30, 1971 and they had one daughter Rachael in 1973. Steve worked for several companies in Birmingham, Alabama as a corporate pilot then started at Motion Industries in Birmingham, Alabama as the Chief Pilot for almost 30 years. After retiring he enjoyed bird hunting, trading guns and fishing. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Melanie Moore Tolleson, one daughter Rachael Tolleson Hand (Michael) one grandaughter Alexis Austin Hurston (Kyle) two great grandchildren Aubrey Hurston age 13 and Mason Hurston age 6, sister Diane Cates of Pinson and a brother Robert Tolleson of Pinson, numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. He is proceeded in death by his parents Myrtle and Hubert Tolleson and a brother Wayne Tolleson of Pinson.
Charles N. Hughes, Jr.
Dolores was the Head Librarian for Tarrant City Library, retiring after 25 years of dedicated service. She also served as President of the Jefferson County Library Association Board. She enjoyed going to church, teaching Sunday School for many years, singing soprano in the choir, and was featured as an occasional soloist. Dolores dedicated many years to Women’s Missionary Union, delivered Meals on Wheels, and actively participated in numerous Christian ministries throughout her life.
The Trussv
July 25 - 31, 2024
Classified
Dolores was a devout Christian, wife, and mother. She leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and unwavering faith. Her nurturing spirit and commitment to Christ touched the lives of many, both in her community and around the world. In addition to her immediate family, Dolores is survived by her cherished daughters-in-law and multiple Call (205) 533-8664 beloved grandchildren and great grandchildren. Her family takes solace in knowing that she has been reunited with her beloved husband, William, and SERVICES nancing available. Call Safe that her spirit continues to inspire those who FOR knew SALE her. Step 1-844-871-6175 InSELLING lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations made to the Samaritan’s Purse, ensuring that a RV, Tractor or Golf 2 adjoining funeralbeplots at Jefher commitment to ChristSTATEcarries on. Cart? ADVERTISE ferson Memorial Gardens in GoGo. Live and age your way. WIDE or by region in over 100 Trussville. Located in the garNewspapers, reaching over 1 den of The Last Supper, shaded, Get help with rides, groceries, million readers each week! Run close to the road. Very reason- meals and more. Memberships your ad in our Classified Net- ably priced. Call 205 910-8139. start as low as $1 per day. Available 24/7 nationwide. BBB Ratwork for just $210 per week! ed A+ Business. Call GoGo to Make one call to this newspaper september february (participating Ala-SCAN news- Two prime-located cemetery get started. 1-844-952-3266 paper) or call 1-800-264-7043 to plots (Section 76A, plots 5 & 6) the Garden of Love at Jefferfind out how easy it is to adver- IninLoving INSURANCE Memory. Barbara S. Peace,DENTAL age 88, of Cullman, passedfrom away son Memorial Gardens. $4,750fromPhysicians tise statewide! Mutual Insurance February 21, 2026. She retired the Alabama Highway Departfor BOTH plotswas or BO - contact ment in 1988, of the Baptist Faith, and loved Alabama Company. Coverage for Foot400 Bobjigsaw Cardwell @ and (205)crossword 410- plus ball, puzzles, puzzles. Barbara was preceded procedures. Real dental BATH & SHOWER UPDATES in6006. deathWill by split her husband Robert Peace, parents Gladys Cullen transfer fee. insurance - NOT just aand discount in as little as ONE DAY! Afford- Sykes, brothers Billy Sykes, Bobby Sykes (Barbara), andCall Donald Sykes plan. Do not wait! now! able prices - No payments for (Shirley), and brother-in-law Gary Morrison. She is survived byGet her your FREE Dental Information Two cemetery for salesister at Carol Morrison, Nephew Kevin 18 months! Lifetime warranty daughter Robin lots Thompson, Kit with all the details! 1-877Jefferson Billy Memorial Gardens & professional installs. Senior Morrison, Sykes, Walter Sykes, Derek Sykes, Niece Teresa Sykes, 817-4697 in Trussville.Jessica For information & Military Discounts available. grandchildren Thompson (Scott), Mirandawww.dental50plus. Childers (Nicholas), #6258 Call:grandchildren 1-855-405-8901 Tim Cash 256- com/alabama great Zakk Thompson please and Lillycall Thompson, andatnumerous nieces and nephews.
Barbara Sykes Peace 2026
26, 1937 —
225-0347.
march 4, 1935 — february 21, 2026
Charles Noble Hughes, Jr., age 90, went to be with his Lord and Savior on February 21, 2026 after a long battle with dementia. He owned his own carpet business for over 40 years and retired in 2000. He was very active in his church and spent many a summer traveling with the Centercrest Youth Choir. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles Noble Hughes, Sr. and Olive Francis (Joiner) Hughes; by his wife of 58 years, Mary Sue (Grill) Hughes; his son-in-law, Cliff Prosser; and his grandson, Jonathon Shane Phillips. He is survived by his daughters, Tina Hughes Prosser and Vicki Hughes Phillips (John), and son, Charles “Buddy” Noble Hughes III (Sylvie); grandchildren Eric Phillips (Natacha), Mary Prosser, Alexianne Hughes, and Thomas Hughes; as well as his three great-grandchildren, Maggie Phillips, Charlee Kate Phillips, and Mayer Phillips.
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Page 9
sports
The Trussville Tribune
March 12 - 18, 2026
Lady Blue Devils finish as state runner-up with 68-62 loss to Guntersville By Henry Williamson, For The Tribune
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – After an already deep and historic run, the Moody Lady Blue Devils were on the cusp of achieving its first ever title Saturday morning at Legacy Arena, but Guntersville adjusted and climbed back in the second half to propel them to a 68-62 victory in the 2026 AHSAA Class 5A Girls Basketball Championship. Serenity Rutledge left it all out there, recording another impressive statline with 39 points on 14-of-24 shooting and 11-of-12 from the free throw line. She collected nine rebounds, four assists, five steals and blocked two shots. “She is who she is, and she shows up for us every day,” head coach Becca Davis said about Rutledge. “She’s the best teammate that anybody could ask for. When you put up the kind of numbers she does, there can be egos. She’s not like that. She wants to see her teammates succeed more than she wants herself to succeed. She gives her all for us, and that’s all I can ask.” Moody started the game with intensity, building a 14-2 advantage to set the tone. Right as the game tipped off, Sophie White took it straight to the goal and scored. On the very
The Moody Lady Blue Devils, 2026 5A runners up. Credit: Henry Williamson
next possession, Aleigha Rhetta stole it and raced to the other end for a layup. From there, Rutledge controlled the pace, putting up 14 points in the first quarter to give the Lady Blue Devils an 18-12 lead. In the second, Moody stretched the margin out even further. Rutledge drew attention and penetrated, kicking it out to Rhetta for a three-pointer and Kennedy Hockman nailed one from the corner. Rutledge remained a threat to Guntersville, lofting one across
the floor to Rhetta for the and-1, then Rhetta netted another triple off a Rutledge assist to push it to 35-23. Guntersville chipped away and closed the quarter on an 8-0 run led by Kenna’D Buie. The Lady Blue Devils were still in front 37-31 at the break. Guntersville came into the new half with a different approach. They scored 9 unanswered to go ahead 40-37 midway through the third. Bristol Cook turned out to be a mismatch for Moody and did damage in
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the paint. Kenna’D Buie read the defense and gave herself chances. Gianna Davis fouled out with 2:19 left in the quarter and the Lady Blue Devils trailed 52-47 as the quarter expired. “Not taking anything away from them, they were phenomenal,” Davis said. “They dropped Cook down to the block and they went to a lower defense. They know we like to drive and kick, and it was a very good adjustment. I think we started making mistakes ourselves. We came out
with several uncharacteristic turnovers. Some shots that were falling in the first half just didn’t fall coming out the gate in the second half. We still had our looks. They just didn’t bounce our way.” Moody had zero desire to quit. With just over a minute remaining, Rutledge brought it within two at 6462. She fought for positioning and rebounded misses for putbacks. She converted at the line multiple times throughout the fourth quarter. Buie handled the full-
court press and Cook protected the rim. Guntersville stayed connected defensively with a stop and put the game out of reach with free throws. “No one can argue that she is a difference when she’s on the floor and when she’s not,” Davis said about Buie, who was the girls 5A tournament MVP. “It changes who you have to be offensively and defensively. She was the major factor. She showed up for them today, and all credit to her.” Rhetta ended with 10 points and was inducted to the all-tournament team alongside Rutledge. Sophie White contributed six points and three blocks. “In 2014, I stood in left field at Lagoon Park after we lost softball state on a walk off. Two years ago, we stood at Protective Stadium as we lost flag football. Now today we’re here,” Davis said. “We didn’t come out on top, but the perseverance that these kids have, they’re just starting. This isn’t over. We’re just starting, and I love our community, our school, and our faculty. The amount of respect they have brought to our program. We’re just beginning to build. I genuinely believe that in my heart.” Moody concludes the season with a 20-12 overall record and had no seniors on this year’s team.
The Trussville Tribune
Page 10
March 12 - 18, 2026
Hewitt remains undefeated Tyler Lacey For the Tribune
TRUSSVILLE – The Hewitt-Trussville Huskies’ (9-0) undefeated season continued Saturday as they swept Fort Payne in a doubleheader. The Huskies pitched two shutouts, taking the first game 1-0 and the second 5-0, behind the pitching of Hudson Mitchell, Blake Bales, and Rylan Clark. Mitchell played a key role in the Huskies dominance, making plays both on the mound and at the plate. In the opener, the Huskies struggled to generate offense. Their lone run came in the third inning when Lane Bilodeau drew a walk and stole second base on an error. Jace Riggan followed with a line drive to right field, allowing Bilodeau to score. That would be all the Huskies needed, as Mitchell struck out three and allowed only three hits over six scoreless innings, with Blake Bales closing out the seventh inning with a strikeout of his own. In game two, the Hus-
Huskies remain undefeated. Credit: Tyler Lacey
kies finally found their rhythm at the plate. In the bottom of the fourth, Taylor Alfano scored after a Blake Bales bunt that led
to a Fort Payne error. The score remained 1-0 until the fifth inning when Riggan scored off a single by Cale Mcintosh and Duck-
ett advanced to third base. With runners on, Mitchell hit a home run to deep left field, extending the Huskies lead to 5-0.
The Huskies pitching was once again dominant, as Rylan Clark struck out four and allowed just two hits over seven scoreless in-
nings. The Huskies would finish with seven hits, Duckett leading the team with two of his own.
Goguts powers Hewitt past Tuscaloosa County; Huskies suffer first loss of season at Hewitt Invitational By John Goolsby, Prep Sports Editor
TRUSSVILLE – Friday was a day of highs and lows for the Lady Huskies, who picked up their 13th win and suffered their first loss of the season at the Hewitt Invitational. In game one, the Lady Huskies started the day off
strong with a 7-3 win over Tuscaloosa County. Hewitt jumped out to a 2-0 lead in the first inning when Kylie Grace Hendrick grounded out to score Erin Coleman, and Corey Goguts scored on a passed ball. In the third, Goguts blasted a grand slam homer that scored Hannah Claire Miller, Cate Bruce,
and Presley Hull to give the Lady Huskies a 6-0 lead. In the fourth, Goguts tripled to score Hull to extend the score 7-0. The Lady Wildcats added three runs late, but the Lady Huskies got win number 13. Righty Harper Looney allowed two hits and no runs in four innings of work
to pick up the win. Maggie Bell turned in a scoreless inning of relief. The second game of the day for Hewitt unfolded differently, and the Lady Huskies suffered their first loss of the season to Daphne. Hewitt scored on a Daphne error to tie the game at 1-1 early, but the Lady Trojans scored five
runs in the fourth to take a 6-3 lead. Goguts homered to score Hull in the sixth to cut the lead to 6-3, but the Lady Huskies could get no closer and saw their win streak come to an end. Goguts turned in a stellar performance Friday, going 4-for-5 with 7 RBIs, 2 home runs and 2 stolen bases.
The Trussville Tribune
March 12 - 18, 2026
Page 11
Green Wave roll past Tuscaloosa Academy By John Goolsby, Prep Sports Editor
LEEDS – Leeds (5-4) got off to a fast start Tuesday. The Greenies scored three runs in the first inning on their way to a 14-0 win over Tuscaloosa Academy.
Ryder Chambers’ RBI scored Jackson Drake, Bennett Schorfhaar scored on a Brady Smith single down the left field line, and Gavin Howards’s sacrifice fly to center scored Chambers to give the Green Wave a fast 3-0 lead. In the second, Jack Mill-
er singled to center to bring home Chase Pardue, a Schorfhaar groundout scored Miller, and a Tuscaloosa Academy wild pitch scored Drake to push the Leeds lead to 6-0. The Green Wave added four more runs in the third. Howard’s line drive to center
scored Brady Smith, a Knights error at third allowed Howard to score, and Drake’s two-run single to left field scored Taylon Gaiter and Miller to give Leeds a commanding 10-0 lead. The fourth inning saw Leeds add four runs. Gaiter’s
double to left field scored Smith and Hudson Hollis. An error on a Drake flyball to right field scored Pardue and Gaiter. On the mound, Chambers was dominant for the Greenies. The right-hander gave up two hits in five innings
with eight strikeouts without giving up a walk. Schorfhaar was 2-for-4 at the plate while Gaiter, Howard, and Drake added two RBIs apiece. Leeds stole 12 bases, with Miller swiping four and Smith stealing three.
The Green Flag: 21 days until Barber; Newgarden wins at Phoenix By John Goolsby, Motorsports Editor
AVONDALE, Ariz. – Fresh tires and perfect timing proved to be the winning combination Saturday in the desert. Team Penske’s Josef Newgarden surged past Kyle Kirkwood in the closing laps to capture the Good Ranchers 250 at Phoenix Raceway, giving Team Penske its first win of the 2026 NTT INDYCAR SERIES season. The Nashville native, three-time Barber winner and two-time series champion, slipped underneath Kirkwood entering Turn 4 with seven laps remaining. Newgarden crossed the finish line 1.7937 seconds ahead of the Andretti Global driver for his 33rd career win. “At one point during the middle of the race, I wasn’t sure we had a winning car,” he said afterward. “But we kept adjusting and waiting for a chance. When the opportunity came, we knew we had to attack.” The winning pass came after a caution on Lap 207 when Christian Rasmussen and Will Power touched while battling for the lead. The incident forced Power to the pits with damage, ending his charge from the back of the field. During the caution, the
Newgarden in action at Barber. Credit: Drew Goolsby
leaders elected to pit for new Firestone tires. Others stayed on track, gambling that track position would outweigh tire wear. That gamble briefly worked, and Rasmussen led the field back to green on Lap 218, but faded. Kirkwood took the lead with eight laps remaining.
With newer tires, Newgarden closed the gap. Two laps after Kirkwood took the lead, Newgarden powered underneath him exiting the final corner and completed the pass for the win on lap 244. “Once we bolted on those tires, the car really came alive,” Newgarden
said. “The crew nailed the call at the right time.” Pole winner David Malukas, who led 73 laps, brought the No. 12 Team Penske Chevrolet home in third, giving the organization two spots on the podium as the team celebrates its 60th anniversary season. Pato O’Ward finished
fourth for Arrow McLaren, while Marcus Armstrong rounded out the top five for Meyer Shank Racing. Saturday’s event marked INDYCAR’s first race at the one-mile Phoenix oval since 2018 — another night won by Newgarden. The return produced plenty of action throughout
the field—drivers combined for 565 passes during greenflag conditions, setting a series record for the track. Four-time champion and points leader Alex Palou crashed out on lap 21 and finished 24th. Newgarden moves to the top of the standings with 78 points.
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Page 12
The Trussville Tribune
March 12 - 18, 2026
THE SUPPORT YOU NEED FOR THE SUPPORT YOU GIVE. For nearly 50 years, Leisure Care has been reimagining and reinventing senior living, making sure older adults like you have the most fulfilling, rewarding, and productive opportunities possible. Welcome to Salterra at Peachtree, where it’s all about living each day with purpose while contributing to your community in new and exciting ways and, most importantly, on your own terms. Our team delivers compassionate and personalized care that meets your family’s needs for today and for all their tomorrows. Call 205-851-7179 today for more information and to schedule your visit.
3740 Eagle Dr Trussville, AL 35173 205-851-7179 LICENSE #D3772
SalterraAtPeachtree.com