The Trussville Tribune – June 13 - 19, 2024

June 13 - 19

By Erica Thomas

Irondale explains position on public prayer, reopens train platform

By Terry Schrimscher

IRONDALE, Ala. – The Irondale City Council met for the first regular meeting of the month on Tuesday, June 4. The meeting featured only one item of new business on the agenda but took time early in the meet-

20-year-old from Center Point killed in crash

From Tribune staff reports

BIRMINGHAM, Ala.

A 20-year-old Center Point man died from his injuries following a crash in Birmingham on Friday, according to the Jefferson County Coroner’s Office.

Markarris Jerrelle Thomas was involved in a two-vehicle crash on June 7 shortly after 1 p.m. near

Seniors

evacuated after fire starts at Grayson Valley senior living facility

By Chris Basinger Staff Writer

GRAYSON VALLEY,

A fire at a senior living home in Grayson Valley caused a brief evacuation of the facility Friday morning.

According to Center Point Fire District Captain

Allen Gillespie honored with state proclamation for his 50 years in education

By Chris Basinger Staff Writer

TRUSSVILLE, Ala.

– Allen Gillespie was not sure why he was asked to remain standing at the front of the room during Monday night’s Trussville Board of Education meeting, but he would soon be overcome with emotion after learning what was in store for him.

The board had just wrapped up recognizing all of the Trussville City School District educators and staffers who were retiring at the end of the school year, of which Gillespie was one of them.

Having been in education for 50 years, most recently as the Hewitt-Trussville High School choral director, it was finally time for retirement--well, his second retirement.

He initially called it a career in 2009, but after just a few weeks he got a call from Trussville City Schools and agreed to teach part-time, thinking that it would only be for a few more years.

15 years on and countless lives impacted, it was finally time.

“One of our retirees I’ve asked to stay up here with us,” Superintendent Dr. Patrick Martin said, motioning to Gillespie.

Martin then introduced Alabama State Rep. Danny Garrett, who took the stand.

“Senator Shelnutt and I wanted to do something special for you, so we have

a proclamation from Governor Ivey, it’s a joint proclamation from the House and the Senate,” Garrett said.

The resolution was also co-sponsored by representatives who serve the districts of Gillespie’s former schools.

“Whereas, with great pride and special pleasure, highest honors, commendations, and congratulations are conveyed to Mr. Desmond Allen Gillespie after a

five-decade career,” Garrett read from the proclamation. It went on to recount Gillespie’s entire career from building the Huffman High School choral department to include four choirs in 1976, establishing the inaugural choral program at the newly-opened ClayChalkville High School in 1996, and agreeing to come

Jack’s in Trussville reopens From

ship with Folds of Honor, a nonprofit organization that provides families of fallen or disabled U.S. service members and first respond-

Trussville World War II veteran celebrates 100th birthday

By Blair Moore For the Tribune

TRUSSVILLE, Ala. –

On June 10, 2024 friends and family of Leonard Cooper gathered at Cracker Barrel to celebrate his 100th birthday. A decorated World War II veteran, he has been a resident of Trussville since 1961.

Raised in New Hope, Alabama, Leonard married his childhood sweetheart, Mary Moore in 1943 just one day before he left for the army. “It was her idea to marry so quickly,” said their daughter Joy Cooper. “In fact, she wouldn’t take no for an answer.” The two were a couple since the day Mary walked up to Leonard during grade school and asked if she could write him a note. “He said yes, and they were thick from then on,” she said. Cooper served as a military police officer in Marietta, Georgia for two years and transferred to Camp House, Texas before being stationed near the Rhine River to fight the Germans. He was on the banks of the Danube River when the war

ended. Cooper was sent home on furlough to greet his newborn daughter before taking jungle training in order to fight the Japanese. In the meantime, the U.S. dropped the atomic bomb that ended the war.

Cooper returned to be honorably discharged and was decorated three times for bravery, even receiving The Bronze Star Medal.

While in Germany, Cooper served as an ammunition

bearer, traversing hazardous, well-fortified enemy territory, at times through places no one else wanted to go.

“Private Cooper fearlessly pursued his course and made repeated trips over exposed terrain to en-

See GILLESPIE, Page 3 See 100-YEAR-OLD, Page 3

By Terry Schrimscher

sure an adequate supply of ammunition to the squad,” the citation for The Bronze Star reads. “His dauntless courage and determination in accomplishing his mission enabled the squad to

Jimmy Johnson to lead HTHS Track and Field

World War II veteran Leonard Cooper celebrated his 100th birthday on Monday He has been a Trussville resident since 1961. Submitted photos.

Trussville World War II veteran celebrates 100th birthday

Allen Gillespie shakes hands with Rep. Danny Garrett after being presented with a state proclamation recognizing his 50-year career. Chris Basinger/Trussville Tribune

The Trussville Tribune

190 Main Street

Trussville, AL 35173

(205) 533-8664

Scott Buttram, Publisher publisher@trussvilletribune.com

Chris Basinger, Staff Reporter chris.basinger@trussvilletribune.com

Johnny Sanders, Sports Editor news@trussvilletribune.com

Jana Matthews, Finance Manager

Brookelyn Rush, Office Manager

Leigh Hays, Director of Sales & Marketing

By Chris Basinger Staff Writer

TRUSSVILLE, Ala.–19

Trussville City School District staffers who retired at the end of the school year were honored at Monday night’s Board of Education meeting for their contributions to Trussville schools during their careers.

Superintendent Dr. Patrick Martin called up each of the newly retired staffers during the meeting and Board Member Sherrye Tolbert presented those who were present with framed certificates congratulating them.

Hewitt-Trussville High School saw eight retire-

City Schools

Trussville City School District 23/24 retirees. Chris Basinger/Trussville Tribune

as assistant superintendent of curriculum and instruction. Following the meeting, a reception was held for the retirees.

ments–Tommy Abney, Mandi Adams, Barry Allphin, Todd Carlile, Allen Gilles-

pie, Carrie Jones, Tim Meacham, and Katie Riggins. Bethanne Crawford re-

tired from Hewitt-Trussville Middle School and Jennifer Ellis retired from Cahaba Elementary School. Gina Gamble, Lydia Smith, and Callie Ward all retired from Magnolia Elementary School, and Janet Benson and Cathy Lollar retired from Paine Elementary School.

Jerry King, Cindy Massey, and Carl Palmore, who retired from the district’s Transportation Department, were also honored along with Dr. Lisa Berry, who retired

Jack’s

Jack’s Family Restaurants

CEO Todd Bartmess.

“We have missed serving the Trussville community and look forward to opening our doors again” added Bartmess.

To celebrate the occasion, Jack’s offered the first 50 customers who ordered onsite free breakfast for one month.

“The newly remodeled building will feature Jack’s Southern Charm design,” a statement from the chain read.

“Guests can expect rocking chairs on the front porch, a window to watch biscuits being made from scratch and a dining room big enough for the whole family.”

Jack’s will also be celebrating the newly remodeled location with 12 weeks of in-app offers exclusive to the Trussville location.

100-Year-Old

render vitally needed covering fire for the advance of the company on its objective.”

Joy remembers her dad telling her the story. “Dad was going through a field carrying loads of ammunition to the men who were caught by the Nazis. There was a sniper in a tree, and all of the men behind him shot at the sniper to keep them from hitting Dad as he ran across the field,” she said. “There were several instances like that of things no one else would do.”

Leonard and Mary were married for 68 years before his beloved wife passed

L oca L / R egion

away in 2009. One of their pastimes was traveling together, often with friends. Their favorite place to visit was Asheville, North Carolina. They have three children (Joy, Carter and Kelly), six grandchildren (one who shares his birthday named Miller Cooper), and four great-grandchildren. Leonard retired as a general contractor in the Birmingham area in 2005.

As a long-time Trussville resident, Leonard says what he appreciates most about the community is the people. “They are very helpful and can always be counted on—the mayor, employees of city hall, the paramedics, and local business owners,” he said.

“Trussville is a great place to live.”

Family members traveled from Huntsville, Gadsden, Pensacola and Houston to be at Leonard’s 100th birthday celebration because they wanted to honor him.

“He always made us work from the time we were able,” said Joy. “He thought that was important. And church—we always had to go to church. We had a wonderful home life.”

Leonard’s hobby is baking chocolate chip cookies and lemon pound cakes to give to friends and family.

When it comes to life advice, his motto is simple: “Treat everyone well, and keep Jesus in your heart.

Clydesdales

ers with scholarships.

Together, Anheuser-Busch, its brands, and wholesaler partners including Adams Beverages have donated $28 million, which has funded over 5,000 educational scholarships for Folds of Honor recipients.

The Clydesdales, which have been the symbol of Anheuser-Busch for over 75 years, will make stops in Homewood, Lakeview, and Trussville.

On June 15 at 2 p.m. they will appear at “Homewood Brews & Bridles” at the Homewood City Hall where a Folds of Honor scholarship check will be presented to a local recipient.

There will also be some

to Trussville in 2009 where during his tenure Trussville City Schools was selected six times as one of the Best Communities for Music Education by the National Association of Music Merchants Foundation.

He also served as president of the Alabama Choral Directors Association and the Alabama Vocal Association and as choir director at Pinson Methodist, St. John’s United Methodist Church, Huffman First United Methodist along with director of The Miss Alabama Singers and co-director of the Trussville Community Choir.

In 2023, Gillespie was also named the Trussville Tribune Person of the Year for his positive impact on the community.

“Mr. Gillespie, known as G or Mr. G, remains beloved

prize opportunities for those who donate to Folds of Honor.

On June 20 they will attend the “The Lakeview Triple Play: Beer, Baseball, and Budweiser Clydesdales” event at 744 29th St South in Birmingham.

The watch party will begin at 3 p.m.

The Clydesdales’ week of festivities will conclude with an appearance at

and highly esteemed by music educators, former educators, and former students,” Garrett continued to read.

“[The Legislature of Alabama] regards, reveres, and honors Allen Gillespie in the highest manner for his numerous professional accolades and model citizenship and, along with best wishes for continued success during his retirement, Rep. Danny Garrett and Sen. Shay Shelnutt dedicate this resolution to him as an exemplary leader with utmost respect, gratitude, and admiration for all that he has done and accomplished for the State of Alabama, Wenonah High School, Huffman High School, Clay-Chalkville High School, Hewitt-Trussville High School, and the countless lives that he has positively impacted through his leadership.”

After a standing ovation, an emotional Gillespie

21+

ham.

Budweiser will donate a portion of proceeds from all Budweiser patriotic packaging sold between Memorial Day and Labor Day to Folds of Honor.

thanked Garrett and spoke on his experience.

“I can’t believe it’s been 50 years,” Gillespie said.

“It’s truly been just a wonderful ride. I know that I’ve given a lot, but I think I’ve received more than I’ve given. I just love the pleasure and the honor of making music with young people, that’s the bottom line. My motto I guess through the years--I remember doing an interview with Channel 13 30 years ago and it hasn’t changed since then--it’s giving young people a chance to be a part of something successful, and that’s what we’ve done.”

He closed by saying,

“My wife gave me a retirement party in 2009, she said I’m not giving you another one. I’m just honored and so grateful that Trussville City Schools called and put an exclamation point on these last 15 years. Thank you so much.”

The new Jack's building. Chris Basinger/Trussville Tribune

The interior of the new Jack's building. Chris Basinger/ Trussville Tribune

Trussville Social on June 21 at 3 p.m.

consumers will also have multiple opportunities to contribute to the Folds of Honor mission by purchasing Budweiser in Birming-

The Budweiser Clydesdales pulling a carriage. Courtesy of Budweiser.

From

Council member Robert Box opened the meeting with a message before leading the invocation and pledge. Before leading the prayer, he informed the crowd in attendance and watching online that he intended to pray and people were free to choose to listen or not.

Speaking to the Trussville Tribune, Box said the council has received some complaints online about the opening prayer.

“We’ve had some comments online about it even from some Christians who say they don’t want to be preached at during the meetings,” Box said. “But it is not preaching,” he added.

During his report to the council, Box offered some brief updates and then used his time to invite Bishop Jim Lowe of Guiding Light Church to the podium to speak briefly on the issue of prayer in a public meeting.

Lowe told the story of Benjamin Franklin speaking

ing and revolved around the purchase of a new vehicle for the Springville Police Department.

“As y’all well know, we

on the subject of opening meetings with prayer.

“Henceforth prayers imploring the assistance of Heaven and its blessings on our deliberations be held in this assembly every morning before we proceed to business and that one or more of the clergy in this city be requested to officiate,” Lowe quoted.

“City Council meetings in the United States have a long tradition of opening with an invocation of prayer,” Lowe said. “The [Supreme] Court emphasized that the nation’s historical practices have long allowed for public expressions of faith and such traditions could be upheld as they are seen as part of the fabric of public life and civic ceremonies,” Lowe continued.

“It ruled that meetings can include prayers or religious expressions provided that attendance or participation is not compulsory for council members or the public,” he said.

In his report to the council, council member David Spivey recognized the recent work on the train platform near City Hall.

had an officer that was involved in a crash and it totaled out his car. I’m trying to get this car replaced as soon as possible,” said Police Chief Wayne Walton. “We only got $12,000 for the car that was wrecked.”

“A big shout out to public works and anyone that had any involvement. It looks fantastic,” Spivey said. “We had a ribbon cutting on the reopening of the train platform. I know it’s a small thing and everything but it’s just one more good thing,” he said. In a release sent to the Trussville Tribune, Mayor James D. Stewart comment-

Walton presented a bid to equip the new Dodge Durango for police duty. The cost to equip the vehicle is $16,835, a difference of $4,835 above the insurance money.

“What I am asking tonight is if y’all will allow me to go ahead and get a car,” said Walton. He explained he cannot hire new officers until he has vehicles for them.

The new Durango, from the state bid list, is priced

ed about the train platform and his plans for the downtown area.

“We’re planning to redevelop Irondale’s downtown core into a ‘Gathering Spot’ for community, similar to what others term an entertainment district. Plans are in motion and property has been purchased to shift our municipal buildings— police, admin, public works,

at $42,267.36 bringing the total cost of purchasing and equipping the vehicle to $59,102.36.

The council added the request to the regular meeting agenda and approved the purchase of the new Durango for a total price up to $60,000.

During the regular agenda, members of the council resumed discussions from the special meetings held

and library, out of this area to pave the way for a commercial resurgence with restaurants, shopping, and more,” Stewart said.

“What we’re doing now with renovating the train platform and hosting the market is giving citizens a preview of this area’s potential and what it can look like when it’s filled with people enjoying their day

on Friday morning, May 24. The Friday meetings were called after a contentious meeting on Monday, May 20 ended abruptly before the conclusion of business.

and fellowshipping with one another. It’s a combination that showcases our rich history with trains as well as our vibrant future.”

The only item of new business on the agenda was a resolution authorizing Stewart, or his designee, to enter into a $6,000 agreement with Birmingham Engineering and Construction Consultants, Inc. to perform a geotechnical engineering evaluation on recently purchased city property for Fire Station #3 to be built.

Council member Cindy Cuellar questioned the agreement and how the results of the survey would be distributed to members of the council and the public prior to construction. She voted in favor of the agreement. The council moved into executive session after approving the single resolution and effectively ended the public portion of the meeting.

The next meeting of the Irondale City Council will be held at 6 p.m. on June 18 at Irondale City Hall. An agenda for the meeting can be found on the Irondale website prior to the meeting.

In those meetings, members of the council approved the creation of an education position for Big Canoe Creek Nature Preserve but did not agree with proposals to split the nature preserve away from Parks and Recreation to create a free-standing department.

In addition to the education coordinator role, the council agreed to create a part-time clerk position under Parks and Recreation.

The council also approved the creation of an IT director position during the called meetings and resumed discussions on Monday about where that position should fall under current departments.

After much discussion, it was determined the IT director position created for Asa Sargent would remain under administration rather than as a new department until future needs required it to be a separate entity.

The next meeting of the Springville City Council will be held at 6 p.m. on June 17 with a work session at 5:30 p.m. prior to the meeting.

Members of the Irondale City Council gathered for a ribbon cutting at the train platform on June 1, 2024. Photo: City of Irondale.

The mother of one of those teens, Lulu Gribbin, shared the story online. She said she, Lulu and her twin sister, Ellie, arrived at the beach Wednesday as part of a trip with friends.

“It was our first mother-daughter beach trip, and we were all incredibly excited,” said Ann Blair Gribbin. “Our first two days were amazing on the beach being with friends and going to dinners.”

However, things took a turn for the worse on Friday when the group took a walk on the beach.

“After lunch, we were walking back on the beach to the girls and everyone on the beach was standing looking out into the water,” she remembered. “No one was in the water and all we heard was there was a shark and we started to look as well.”

Gribbin said things started to get tense after one mother called for her daughters and couldn’t find them.

Lulu later told her parents she was in waist-high water with six friends, looking for sand dollars, when the shark attacked. She said a man pulled her out of the water, and another boy helped carry her to the beach. Other beachgoers helped apply tourniquets.

Meanwhile, her mom had no idea what was about to unfold. The incident would change their lives forever.

“The beach was packed with people just looking,” Gribbin said. “I came upon a group of people surrounding someone on the ground and looked down and it was Lulu who was there. Ellie

Carson Road and 23rd Ave-

found me and said, ‘Mom, it’s Lulu.”

Gribbin said her daughter was lifeless and pale. She said the damage left behind by the shark was horrific. EMTs quickly responded and airlifted the teen to Sacred Heart Hospital in Pensacola.

After an hour and 20-minute ride by a friend and multiple prayers for survival, Gribbin finally reached the hospital, where Lulu was already in surgery. Lulu had lost her left hand in the shark attack, and her right leg had to be amputated.

Her mom said her first words after surgery were, “I made it.” She also said Lulu was more worried about her friends than herself.

She will likely undergo several more surgeries, but Gribbin said she is thankful her daughter is alive. “At this point, we will have multiple surgeries in the days to come and our lives will be forever changed,” said Gribbin. “Lulu is strong, beautiful, brave and so many more

According to BPD Sgt. LaQuitta Wade, both of the drivers were transported to an area hospital by Birmingham Fire and Rescue Services.

things I can’t count. God has a plan for her, and we will be there to support her every way we can.”

Ultimately, Lulu and her mother believe God showed up right on time.

“I know this was a terrible accident, but God was there and had the people there who helped save her life,” Gribbin added. “Lulu said she felt God in the back of the beach truck. She is truly a miracle.”

The family is also asking for prayers for themselves so that they will know how to encourage Lulu throughout the recovery process.

The third victim, 45-year-old Elisabeth Foley of Virginia, was swimming past the sandbar when she was attacked. She lost her lower left arm.

“She is a faithful believer of Jesus as her Lord & Savior, and a true blessing to everyone she encounters,” her church family wrote. “She is a devoted wife and mother of three wonderful children.”

Foley also had injuries to her midsection.

Shortly after arriving at the hospital, Thomas succumbed to his injuries. No further information is available at this time.

Coroner’s Office asks public for help finding family of deceased Irondale man

From Tribune staff reports

JEFFERSON COUNTY – The Jefferson County Coroner/Medical Examiner’s Office is asking for the public’s assistance in locating the family of a deceased Irondale man.

Samuel Woodrow Westbrook, 58, was found on the afternoon of June 5 floating in a pond behind a private residence near the 4500 block of Brookforest Lane.

Joe Nobles, a small fire started in a laundry utility room at the Proveer at Grayson Valley shortly after 11 a.m.

CPFD responded to the

According to the Coroner’s Office, he had been living there in a tent for over a year. All efforts to locate the family have been unsuccessful.

Westbrook listed previous addresses in Odenville, Pell City, Moody, Branchville, Columbiana, and Trussville.

The JCCMEO is asking anyone with knowledge of the family to call them at 205-930-3603.

call and observed residents being evacuated upon their arrival.

“We got the fire out very quickly and it just mainly smoked up some of the hallways,” said Nobles, who added that the fire was essentially just smoldering

clothes.

All 38 residents were safely evacuated and safely returned to their rooms after the incident.

There were no reported injuries.

“Everything went smoothly,” Nobles said.

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Samuel Woodrow Westbrook

Classic cars on display.

Trussville Parks & Rec holding bench press competition

From Tribune staff reports

TRUSSVILLE, Ala.–

Trussville Parks & Recreation is offering community members a chance to test their strength later this month with a new Bench Press Competition.

The event will see male and female athletes in the community face off to see who can lift the most weight.

The Cruise-In pays tribute to longtime First Baptist Church Trussville member Leland Dockery.

“Leland loved his cars and had been tinkering with hot rods since he was in high school. He personally restored over 30 cars,” said Bob Smith, FBCT’s Minister to Seasoned Adults.

“Not long after I came

to First Baptist in 2018, he and I talked about having an auto show, and I thought it was a great idea. I never imagined we’d be doing one without him, but I can’t think of a better way to honor his memory.”

Several of Dockery’s cars will be on display at the Cruise-In, which will be held in the church’s front parking lot.

Vehicle registration can be done online or on the day

of the event, and admission to the event is free.

Vehicles that are registered will also be considered for awards.

There will also be food trucks with food for purchase along with free water.

For more information about the Leland Dockery Tribute Cruise-In, visit www.fbctrussville.org or call the church office at 205655-2403.

There will be two youth classes–12-14-year-olds and 15-17-year-olds–while those 18 and up will be grouped by weight.

Classes will be subject to change based on the number of competitors.

Trophies will be awarded to each class’s first-place winner.

The competition will be held on June 22 at 11 a.m. at the Trussville Parks & Rec Gym at 601 Parkway Drive.

There is a $35 entry fee,

and all proceeds from the event will go to Trussville Parks & Rec.

Businesses also have the opportunity to sponsor the event and showcase their businesses with a display table.

For more information, visit https://trussville.org/ bench-press-competition/ or contact event organizer Samuel Jones at 205-9010759.

Trussville Police receiving autism training to better serve community

From Tribune staff reports

TRUSSVILLE, Ala.–

The Trussville Police Department is partnering with Simplified Behavioral Health, LLC this week to receive training on how first responders can better serve people with autism, according to TPD Lt. Clint Riner. Officers will be educated on topics such as understanding the diagnosis,

communication strategies, compassion, de-escalation, and trauma trauma-assumed care.

“This training will help officers identify the diverse range of characteristics and behaviors that come with these diagnoses and allow the officer a better opportunity to have a safer and more effective interaction with those in need,” Riner wrote.

L ifesty L e

My Life As A Hobby: The Old Man’s Watch

By Joe Hobby Tribune Columnist

Since it was my fourth trip to the watch repair shop, I didn’t have high hopes. I’m sure the little Russian man who owned it would tell me, like he had on my three previous visits, that he couldn’t find the parts to get the wristwatch running – thanks to Covid. Besides, it was nothing but an old, inexpensive, self-winding Seiko. The cost to repair it would probably be more than the watch was worth. But that didn’t matter to me, because as far as I’m concerned, this timepiece is priceless. It belonged to my father.

Dad only had a couple of wristwatches during his life. For the longest time he had a silver Omega timepiece that he wore every waking hour.

As a child I can recall seeing it on his wrist when I visited him at work. I remember him diligently winding it almost every day. He revered Omega watches – so much so that he gave me one when I graduated from college. I don’t know what ever happened to that wonderful old timepiece of his – I suppose it quit keeping “good time” as they used to say – but for whatever reason, the Seiko replaced it.

Even though it’s not expensive, this is a nice watch. The old Seiko has more style than most watches I see nowadays. A clean gray face contrasts smartly with the silver bars marking the hours. A silver and gold stretch band completed the look. Classy.

Like the Omega, the Seiko became a part of my

father. I can still see him taking off that watch before we would play golf – he would either place it in the top pocket of his golf bag or drop it in his street shoes when we changed into our golf spikes. He checked the time on his wrist so much that it became a nervous habit.

Of course, all his wristwatch did was give the time and the date. You couldn’t check emails (because there was no such thing), look at photographs, or talk on it. At that time something like that would’ve been considered science fiction – now it’s a common occurrence.

Sorry about that tangent. Not too long ago, my sister found Dad’s Seiko in an old jewelry box and gave it to me. And now I was walking in the watch repair shop

again, hoping that the Russian had finally got the Seiko running. Unfortunately, the moment our eyes locked, he began shaking his head. The fourth time was not the charm.

The little man began speaking before I got to the counter, saying, “No, no. Sorry, I can’t find part to fix. I search. I try. I sorry. I know it your Papa’s watch.”

I hated to hear that, but it wasn’t surprising. It was like your doctor telling you that you have high cholesterol when your diet is mostly cheeseburgers. I nodded and ,“That’s ok. Just give it back to me. I have plans for it.” I decided to hang the watch from our Christmas tree every holiday season – a unique ornament that would honor my father. So he put the Seiko

in a small manila envelope, apologized again, and handed it to me. I thanked him, walked to the truck, then took the timepiece out to give it a final look before I took it home and stored it with our Christmas decorations. I even gave in to a strange urge to put it on my wrist – why, I still don’t know. I held the timepiece away from me and looked at it’s face.

Almost immediately, the second hand, which had been frozen for years, began moving smoothly. It had come back to life. I stared at the watch crystal in disbelief as a wave of goosebumps washed over me. I had the distinct feeling that I wasn’t alone in the truck. The watch has been on my left wrist for several months now, keeping “good

time” just like it did decades before. Honestly, it runs a little bit slow, so I have to adjust the minute hand every day, but considering its age, that’s all right. At my age, I run a little slow myself. I’m sure there are people who read this and believe that when the little Russian repairman opened the back of the watch, he somehow unfroze the mechanism – a convenient coincidence. Believe that if you want – but I don’t.

I know what I felt that day in my truck when the watch began ticking again. Like someone was with me, telling me to keep it on my wrist, telling me there was life in it yet. I know who it was. The original owner. Happy Father’s Day, everyone.

Sean of the South: I Heart America

By Sean Dietrich Sean of the South Commentary

An old highway. Somewhere in America. Two lanes. No shoulder. Faded yellow lines. Oh, the things you see while driving old American highways will enchant you.

I pass a young woman walking the side of the highway, carrying supermarket bags. She is young. Ponytail. Sunday dress. There is a little boy on a bicycle following her. This makes me smile. Because I am glad to know children still ride bikes. When I was a kid, an estimated 69 percent of

American children between ages five and 14 rode bikes. Today, it’s down to nine percent. The percentage drops every year. Growing up, bicycles were our religion. A kid and his bike were invincible. Your bike carried you far from home, into new realms, introducing you to the world at large. We kids had no technology. We had no social media. No smartphones. The bike was our internet, our phone, and our Instagram. Used to, our entire neighborhood would be littered with tiny bicycles, scattered in random front yards. And if you wanted to know where your friends

were, you just looked for the bikes.

I pass a Baptist Church, tucked in the trees. Big gravel parking lot. Cars parked everywhere. Mostly trucks or economy cars with muddy tires. No Land Rovers. The cemetery backs up to a cattle pasture. On the church lawn, I see a couple kids in dress clothes, roughhousing in the grass. If I were a betting man, I’d say one of those kids is about to get his butt reddened.

I pass a baseball park off the highway. And although it’s Sunday, the stands are full. There are players on the field. White polyester uniforms. Parents cheering.

Which is unusual to me. Because it’s Sunday. When I was a kid, we were not allowed to play baseball on Sundays. For crying out loud, we weren’t even allowed to clip our toenails on Sundays. Also prohibited was Sunday fishing. Namely, because fishing was considered “work.” And you did not work on the Lord’s day. Which was sort of ironic inasmuch as all the women would toil, sweat, and labor for six hours in the kitchen, each Sunday, cooking a dinner large enough to feed the People’s Liberation Army of China. Whereupon they would spend another nine hours doing dishes.

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Bid Date and Time: July 16, 2024 at 10:00 A.M.

Up ahead are Cedartown, Bremen, and it’s only nine miles to Buchanan. I wish I could keep riding the old American highway. Because this is what I love about our country. The little towns. And the people in them.

But, I’m turning onto the interstate now. I’m due back home in a few hours. I’m an adult now. I have commitments. Things to do. Bills to pay. People to see. But sometimes I still miss my bike.

I pass a house in the woods. Nestled in a copse of pines. White clapboards. Wrap-around porch. Both screen doors open—front and kitchen. A cross breeze works its way through the home. Also, I see an old man, seated on a swing, he’s reading—wait—can it be? Yes it can! He is reading a physical newspaper. More churches. Shady Grove Baptist. Pleasant Ridge Baptist. Pleasant View Baptist. First Baptist. Peachtree Baptist. Trinity Baptist. Wallace Farm Supply. Your classic small-town feed and seed. Red-andwhite checkered Purina logo on the sign. Seminole Feed products. Get your Bengal roach spray here. I’ll bet they sell real cowboy hats inside.

Sealed Bids will be received by Trussville Gas and Water located in Trussville, Alabama, until the local time set forth below, for furnishing all labor, equipment and doing the work of constructing, according to Plans, Specifications and Contract Documents on file in the office of Trussville Gas and Water, the project hereinafter described. No bid will be received after the time set forth below; and the Bids will be publicly opened and read at Trussville Gas and Water Engineering Dept., 6620 Green Drive, Trussville, Alabama 35173.

Interested contractors can obtain prequalification applications from TG&W Engineering Department (“Engineering Department”), 6620 Green Drive, Trussville, Alabama 35173; Telephone: (205) 655-3211 and must submit the completed prequalification application to the Engineering Department at the above address, no later than 4:00 p.m. on July 2, 2024.

Project Number

2-008-23

2-009-23

2-010-23

2-011-23

2-012-23

2-013-23

2-014-23

2-017-23

2-018-23

2-019-23

2-020-23

2-021-23

2-022-23

2-023-23

Project Location

Happy Hollow and Bonnie Ruth Road

Floyd Bradford Cutoff and Roper Road

Old Springville Road and Sunny Lane Drive

Reed Road NE and 18th Avenue NE

Deerfoot Parkway and Jonathon’s Way

AL SR 75 and Pinson Main Street

Old Springville Road and Dug Hollow Road

Emerald Lake Drive NE and Cedar Mountain Road

Brewster Road and Bonnett Landing

Roper Road and Roper Tunnel Road

Carrington Drive and Carrington Way

Roulain Road and Pine Lane

AL SR 7 and Advent Circle

Red Mill Road and Cheri Lane

Plans, Specifications and Contract Documents for the project described above are open to public inspection at Trussville Gas and Water Engineering Dept., 6620 Green Drive, Trussville, Alabama 35173. Telephone: (205) 655-3211.

Trussville Gas and Water reserves the right to reject any or all bids, to waive any informality in any bid, and to accept any bid considered advantageous to the Owner.

No bid may be withdrawn after the time for opening bids has passed. Trussville Gas and Water reserves the right to hold the bids for a period of Sixty (60) days after the date of receiving Bids.

If said bid equals $20,000.00 or more, a certified check or bid bond must accompany each bid in an amount of not less than five percent (5%) of the total bid, but in no event more than $10,000.00. The payee of such check, or the obligee of such bond, shall be Trussville Gas and Water.

Contractor agrees to comply with all specifications, plans and contract documents as furnished by Trussville Gas and Water. Contractor must be licensed under the provisions of Title 34 Chapter 8, Code of Alabama, 1975. Prior to submitting a bid for this project, contractor must be prequalified as a Gas Line Utility Contractor for Trussville Gas and Water. Contractor prequalification applications may be obtained at Trussville Gas and Water Engineering Dept., 6620 Green Drive, Trussville, Alabama 35173.

Reba Jo May Clark

august 25, 1929 – june 4, 2024

Reba Jo Mays Clark, age 94, passed peacefully away on Tuesday, June 4, 2024. Reba was born on August 25, 1929, in Marion County, Alabama. She was preceded in death by her parents John Morgan Mays and Edna Chastain Mays; her husband of forty-seven years, James Richard Clark; her daughter Caron Jan Clark; and brother James Chastain Mays.

Not only was Reba close to her children but she always said her grandchildren and her brother were like her own. She is survived by her son R. Stan Clark; daughter Debra Clark Gulledge; grandsons R. Craig Rosetta and Joe Keith Rosetta (Stephanie), great-grandchildren (Devon Hawthorne and Joseph Rosetta); sister-in-law Virginia Murphee Mays; several nieces and nephews; special cousin Shirley Chastain; and special friend Janice C. Wells.

Reba began her career as an educator at age seventeen. She received a Bachelors, Masters, and Education Specialist Degree from the University of Alabama, remaining in the profession for the next sixty-three years until eventually retiring from Samford University at age eighty-one. She served as a teacher, counselor, and administrator at all levels from kindergarten through graduate school. She was a teacher in Bibb County, Marion County, and Birmingham City Schools. She served as a counselor for ten years at Banks High School in Birmingham City Schools.

Reba was an active member of the team that developed the Vestavia Hills School System, remaining there for twenty-one years. She served as both Director of Guidance and Director of Curriculum and Instruction. She guided the faculty and staff in following the school system’s philosophy — to make school a place where people want to be and want to learn. She was noted for her extensive research of any idea that seemed appropriate to present to the staff. Under her direction, and with what she always said was an exceptional team of counselors, teachers, and administrators, the American School Counseling Association (in a competitive program) selected the Vestavia Hills Guidance Program as an exemplary Model for other schools in the United States.

After retiring from Vestavia Hills, she went to Samford University where she coordinated and taught in the Counseling Foundations Program in what was then the Adult Degree Division. The students at Samford twice selected Reba as the recipient of the Faculty Scholar Award.

Reba’s legacy in education was her belief that educators could make a difference in the lives of students, and she worked to make that happen.

Reba Clark was a long-time member of the Church of Christ. She was a member of the small group that started the Hoover Church of Christ in 1963. Most recently she was a member of the Moody Church of Christ.

In honor of her wishes, there will be no memorial or funeral service. However, the family will be hosting a gathering for her friends and family on Sunday, June 23rd from 2:00PM to 4:00PM at the Trussville Civic Center (5381 Trussville Clay Road, Trussville, AL 35173).

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to her great-grandchildren’s school counseling program. Make checks payable to Cahaba Elementary School (301 Parkway Drive, Trussville, AL 35173), indicating the donation is on Reba’s behalf for the counseling program.

Cheryl Everett

november 10, 1947 — may 31, 2024

Funeral Services for Mrs. Cheryl Everett, age 76 of Pell City, were held on Friday, June 7, 2024 at 2:00 P.M. at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home with Bro. Leroy Glenn officiating. Burial was held at Sunrise Memorial Gardens.

Mrs. Everett passed away on Friday, May 31, 2024 at her home. A lifelong resident of Alabama, she graduated from Hewitt-Trussville High school in 1966. Mrs. Everett attended Jefferson State Community College and Wallace State Community College where she obtained her Associate’s in Nursing and worked as a Registered Nurse for many years. Going to church and having a relationship with the Lord meant a lot to her, and making sure her family did too. She was a member of Eden Westside Church in Pell City for many years. Mrs. Everett was a natural born caregiver, nurturer, mother and “gran” to all. She would spend her time knitting, cross stitching, tending to her plants and volunteering with kids with disabilities at her church. Mrs. Everett enjoyed going to the beach, her “happy place”, playing softball and ballet in her younger years. She was also an Auburn fan and loved animals, especially Elizabeth and her parrot, Tiko.

AskEddie

What Items of Remembrance Can I Share After a Loss?

During a wake or other commemorative service, guests are often presented with items of remembrance to honor the deceased.

Books of Remembrance can be set in a common area for guests to sign in and write messages, memories, or poems to commemorate the deceased.

Memorial cards have a meaningful photo and words printed on them, and are typically laminated. They are often included in thank-you notes.

Prayer cards, or holy cards, have devotional pictures and a prayer printed on the back. Giving them to guests is a common practice and part of the culture of Roman Catholicism.

Personal tokens can also be considered, like giveaways or little knick-knacks. These may reference a hobby or skill that your loved one expressed great interest in.

Please scan the QR code to read the full article.

She is survived by her husband of 31 years, James Everett, her daughters, Kelly Walker (Bobby), Kahlan Walker (Stanley) and Aubree Hughes, her stepchildren, April Duncan, Melissa Evans and Cobey Everett, her grandchildren, Christopher Hughes, Jeremy Hughes, Louie Faulkner, Elizabeth Golden, Roni Morgan and Holly Walker, her great-grandchildren, William Keenum, Dayten Townsend, Bailen Hughes, Colt Faulkner, Presley Faulkner, Amity Grace, Abigail Martin, Blake Jordan and James Jordan.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Louie F. and Elizabeth Barnes, and her son, Ronald Walker. Pallbearers will be Jeremy Hughes, Louie Faulkner, Logan Morgan, Cobey Everett, Roni Morgan, John Peoples and Dayten Townsend.

Visitation was held on Friday, June 7, 2024 from 1:00 P.M. until service time at 2:00 P.M. at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home.

Jerry Towry

december 5, 1939 — june 3, 2024

Jerry D. Towry, a beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away on June 3, 2024, at his home in Springville, Alabama, at the age of 84. He was born on December 5, 1939, in Birmingham, Alabama, to Clarence and Mildred (Smith) Towry.

Jerry dedicated all

Visitation will be Monday, June 10th from 1:00-2:00 at the Church of the Holy Cross Episcopal, Trussville with funeral following.

Joshua Lewis Stegall

december 28, 1982 — june 9, 2024

Graveside services will be Wednesday, June 12, 2024, at 12:00 PM, at Jefferson Memorial Gardens for Joshua Lewis Stegall, age 41, of Odenville, who passed away Sunday, June 9, 2024. Rev. Buddy Champion will officiate. Arrangements under the direction of Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home and Gardens.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home Tuesday, June 11, 2024, from 5:00 until 7:00 PM.

Josh was an Assistant Sales Manager at Valmont Industries, with over 15 years of service. He enjoyed attending and participating in various car shows, especially those that would benefit a charitable cause. He was known by all for his giving heart.

Vacations to the beach were an enjoyable getaway for Josh and his family, he cherished the time to relax but he especially loved the fresh seafood. Josh will be missed by all that had the privilege to know him.

Survivors include his wife, Tara Hill Stegall; his parents, James and Tina Stegall; nephew, Landon Stegall; and his fur babies, Havi and Susie. He is preceded in death by his brother, Jason D. Stegall; and his grandparents.

Pallbearers will be Adam Anderson, Jeremy Davis, Aaron Austin, Tommy Brown, Jonathan Walter, Jeremy Rochester, and David Taylor.

Eddie Seal, General Manager

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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.

Trussville Public Library

● Summertime Stories

- Thursday, June 13 at 9:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.

- Join Ms. Alicia for a summer-themed storytime in the library auditorium with stories, songs, bubble time, and lots of fun!

● Yarn Manglers - Thursday, June 13 at 2 p.m.Knitters and crocheters, join us for fellowship and creativity!

● Teen-Snakes - Thursday, June 13 at 2 p.m.Teens join us to learn all about snakes!

● Library 101 - Thursday, June 13 at 6 p.m. - Learn the basics of what TPL has to offer and how you can access it.

● Urban Turtle Project with Dr. Andy Coleman - Saturday, June 15 at 10 a.m.

- Meet Alabama native turtles.

● Teen String Art - Monday, June 17 at 4 p.m. - Create a string art masterpiece.

● Yarn Manglers - Monday, June 17 at 6 p.m. - Knitters and crocheters, join us for fellowship and creativity!

● Adult String Art - Monday, June 17 at 6 p.m.Adult string art class.

● Read and Draw Storytime with Author and Illustrator Ashley BeloteTuesday, June 18 at 10:30 a.m. and 12 p.m. - Meet children’s author/illustrator Ashley Belote as she reads her book “Listen Up, Louella”. She will share about how a book is created, and then teach us how to draw a character from the story.

● Jackie Robinson and the Story of Major League Baseball’s IntegrationTuesday June 18 at 6:30 p.m. - As Birmingham welcomes MLB’s Field of Dreams game and as the country celebrates Juneteenth, Mark Everett Kelly examines the relationship between race and America’s pastime.

● STEAM Around the World - Wednesday, June 19 at 4 p.m. - Travel at your own pace during this dropin event! Make crafts and participate in activities as you travel around the world with a special passport.

Pinson Public Library

● An Afternoon at Downton Abbey - Thursday, June 13 at 4 p.m. - Let’s go back in history via the film, Downton Abbey: A New Era. Enjoy tea, scones, & Downton-related activities.

● Storytime for Growin’ Beans with Ms. Allison: Future - Friday, June 14 at 10 a.m. - Our theme is the Future. We’ll read books & do an activity. Each child will get a craft & snack to take home as well. Storytime is designed for pre-K children, but all ages are welcome.

● Let’s Jam! - Friday, June 14 at 4 p.m. - Are you in-

terested in music? Come jam at the library! Mr. Keith will jam with his guitar & be available for questions or inspiration!

● City Fest 2024 - Friday, June 15 at 5 p.m. - Celebrate the 20th Anniversary of Pinson becoming a city! Enjoy food trucks & birthday cake. There will also be family-friendly activities. Fireworks extravaganza will begin at 9 PM from behind the Rock School Complex/Pinson Public Library.

● Chair Yoga - Monday, June 17 at 10 a.m. - Discover the benefits of yoga from the comfort of your chair! Join us for a gentle form of yoga that is tailored for individuals of all levels and abilities.

● Journey Through the Arctic - Monday, June 17 at 5 p.m. - Journey Through the Arctic with us! Enjoy arctic-themed crafts, play snow with Foam Zone Parties, cool treats, & more fun for all ages.

● Take-Home Tuesdays: Egg Carton PenguinsTuesday, June 18 - Drop by the library beginning Tuesday, June 18 at 9 a.m. to pick up an all-ages kit with a craft & fun surprise! This week’s theme is the arctic!

● Tech Tuesdays - Tuesday, June 18 at 10 a.m.Need help with your tablet, smartphone, or computer? Mr. Keith is here to help! Drop in for helpful tech tips & tricks, Please bring your device with you.

● Early Readers’ Book Club with Ms. Riana: Sheep Dog & Sheep SheepTuesday, June 18 at 4 p.m. - This book club is geared towards K-2 students. At the meeting, each child will get a copy of the same book & will read along as Ms. Riana reads the whole or part of the story aloud. Then the group will discuss, answer reading comprehension questions, & the kids will have a chance to read aloud.

Hewitt hires new Girls Soccer coach and Track &

Hewitt-Trussville announced the hiring of Sean Gibson and Jimmy Johnson. The pair have decades of coaching experience and 13 state championships between them.

Gibson, a six-time state championship coach, will serve as a HTHS teacher and Varsity Head Girls Soccer coach.

Coach Gibson has been a teacher and soccer coach at Northridge High School since 2020. He led the Girls Soccer team and Boys Soccer team while at Northridge. Both varsity squads qualified for the playoffs each year. The Girls' team played for the state championship in 2022 and advanced to the Final Four in 2021. The Boys' team advanced to the Final Four in 2024.

From 1996-2019, Coach Gibson was a teacher and coach at The Altamont School. He led the Girls' team to state championships in 2004, 2006, and 2007. He led the Boys' team to state championships in 2003, 2009, and 2012. The Boys were the State Runner-Up in 2002, 2016, and 2019. Gibson also organized a Soccer trip to England and Scotland where the team attended professional matches and trained at professional clubs.

Gibson has served as a coach with the Homewood Soccer Club since 2015. He

was a coach with the Mountain Brook Soccer Club/Birmingham United Soccer Association from 2004-2015.

Gibson played for The University of the South from 1985-1989. He was named All-CAC three times and still holds the record for career goals (70) and most goals in a season (20). He later played professionally for the Birmingham Grasshoppers in the USISL Premier Division and the Alabama Saints in the USISL Amateur Division.

Coach Gibson stated, "I am delighted to have the opportunity to lead the Girls soccer program at Hewitt-Trussville. Competing against some of the best girls' teams in the state is a challenge I will relish and I look forward to helping the girls achieve success in elevating the program to the same elite level as the Huskies' other athletic teams."

HTHS Principal Aaron King stated, "Coach Gibson has a proven track record of success and we are excited to have him leading our Girls Soccer program. We compete in a challenging area and we knew we had to find the very best to lead our girls. With Coach Gibson's experience, his love of the sport, and his dedication to his student athletes, we feel we have a recipe for success."

Trussville City Schools

Athletics Director Lance

Walker said, "We are excited to welcome Coach Gibson and his family to Trussville. Coach Gibson is an experienced and respected Soccer coach that has experienced championship-level success during his career. I am impressed by his plan to make Hewitt-Trussville Soccer an elite program in our state. We are looking forward to supporting him and our players as they prepare for the 2025 season."

Johnson will serve as a HTHS teacher and Varsity Head Track & Field coach.

Coach Johnson has been the Track & Field coach at Opelika High School since 2011. He led the Bulldogs to state titles in Outdoor Track

& Field in 2015, 2016, 2017, and 2021. He also won state titles in Indoor Track & Field in 2016, 2017, and 2021.

More than 55 of his former student-athletes signed college scholarships. Coach Johnson has been named the NFHS Regional Coach of the Year four times. Coach Johnson has also served as an assistant Football coach at Opelika since 2011. He completed the Pittsburgh Steelers internship program and the Las Vegas Raiders internship program.

Coach Johnson said, “My family and I are thrilled to join the Hewitt-Trussville Track & Field team. We’re incredibly excited about this opportunity and can’t

wait to be part of such a dedicated and passionate program, led by a team that truly embodies a commitment to excellence. Your Triple-A values here at Hewitt-Trussville resonate deeply with me. I am especially excited to share my experience and enthusiasm with the talented athletes and staff. I want to extend an appreciative thank you to the Superintendent, Dr. Martin, HT Principal, Mr. King, and the HT Athletic Director, Mr. Walker, for this opportunity. I can’t wait to get started and to be part of the Hewitt-Trussville family! Go Huskies!”

HTHS Principal added,

“It is a real honor to have

Coach Johnson take the lead of the Husky Track & Field team. His proven record of excellence in the sport will serve him well. We are excited to welcome Coach Johnson and his family to the Trussville community!” Trussville City Schools

Athletics Director Lance Walker said, “We are excited to welcome Coach Johnson to Trussville. Our Track & Field program has a rich history of excellence. Coach Johnson is among the most respected coaches in our state. He has coached championship teams and has been recognized on the national level for his coaching and leadership. We look forward to supporting Coach Johnson and our Track & Field athletes as they continue the championship tradition of HT Track & Field.” Johnson graduated from Jacksonville State University. He was a member of the Gamecock football team and started at linebacker. He later added a Master’s degree from Alabama A&M and earned his Instructional Leadership certificate from Jacksonville State. There will be a meet and greet with Coach Gibson on Tuesday June 4 at 6pm in the HTHS Lecture Hall. There will be a meet and greet with Coach Johnson on Monday June 17 from 4pm-6pm at Hewitt-Trussville Stadium.

New Hewitt-Trussville Track & Field Coach Jimmy Johnson and his family.

Photo by: HTHS Athletics

Stallions’ Conference Championship win gives team shot at three-peat

By John Goolsby Prep Sports Editor

BIRMINGHAM, Al.

– Birmingham came from behind to defeat the Michigan Panthers, 31-18, in the USFL Conference Championship Game. With the victory, the Stallions (10-1) will play for the franchise’s third spring football championship next Saturday.

The Stallions’ second consecutive victory over the Panthers, and the third of the year, earned the team a trip to the first-ever United Football League Championship.

The Panthers (7-4) drew first blood with a 35-yard touchdown on the opening drive from Danny Etling to Siaosi Mariner.

two possessions. Michigan had a 12-0 lead with 46 seconds left in the first quarter.

The Stallions moved the ball 55 yards to the Michigan 5-yard line on their next possession but had to settle for a Chris Blewitt 23-yard field goal.

The Panthers’ Jake Bates, an ALL-UFL selection, connected on his third field goal of the day to give Michigan a 15-3 lead with 7:15 remaining in the half. Unfortunately for the Stallions, the offense turned the ball over to the Panthers on their next possession. Michigan capitalized on the Birmingham mistake with Bates’ fourth field goal of the half.

The Stallions trailed 18-3 with 4:04 left in the second period.

weren’t done and looked to extend their lead. Michigan moved to the Stallions’ 33-yard line but saw a rare Bates miss on a 51-yard attempt.

The Stallions’ offense, with 1:56 on the clock, moved the ball to the Pan-

thers’ 25-yard line but could go no further.

Blewitt connected on a 43-yarder with 16 seconds left to cut the Birmingham deficit to 18-12. The third period was less than productive for both teams. Birmingham

and Michigan combined for only 77 yards, ran 25 plays, scored six points, threw four interceptions, punted three times, and fumbled twice.

The only points of the period came on a Daniel Isom 48-yard interception return for a touchdown. The pick-six tied the game at 18 with 2:50 remaining.

The Stallions opened the fourth quarter with the ball at their 37-yard line. Four plays later, Matt Corral, subbing for a benched Martinez, connected with Amari Rodgers for a seven-yard touchdown to give Birmingham a 24-18 lead.

Etling moved the Michigan offense to the Birmingham 26-yard line with 9:51 left in the game but couldn’t get the Panthers any closer. Armani Taylor-Prioleau blocked Bates’ 44-yard attempt.

The Corral-led offense put together a nine-play, 66-yard drive that took 5:39 off the clock. The drive was

capped off with a Corral to Ricky Person, Jr. touchdown with 4:12 remaining in the game. The one-point PAT was successful, and the Stallions led 31-18.

The Panthers, with one last opportunity to get back in the game, saw their hopes dashed when Etling threw an interception to Ike Brown, his second of the game. Birmingham ran 1:49 seconds off the clock but turned the ball over to the Panthers on downs with 13 seconds remaining in the game.

Dondrea Tillman sacked Etling to end the game.

The Stallions out-gained Michigan 365 to 253.

The Stallions offense rolled up 231 yards in the second half.

The Birmingham defense held the Michigan offense to 96 yards and had four takeaways in the second half.

While the Birmingham offense was looking to get on track, the Stallions’ defense held the Panthers to two field goals on their next

The Birmingham offense showed some signs of life on their next possession when ALL-UFL quarterback Adrian Martinez hit tight end Jordan Thomas for a 50-yard touchdown to cut the Panther lead to 18-9 with just under four minutes left in the first half.

The Stallions’ old rivals

Head coach Skip Holtz of the Birmingham Stallions holds the USFL Conference Champion Trophy after defeating the Michigan Panthers at Protective Stadium on June 08, 2024 in Birmingham, Alabama. (Photo by Matthew Stockman/UFL/Getty Images)

Adrian Martinez #9 of the Birmingham Stallions looks to pass against the Michigan Panthers during the second quarter of the USFL Conference Championship game at Protective Stadium on June 08, 2024 in Birmingham, Alabama. (Photo by Matthew Stockman/UFL/ Getty Images)

Stallions land five players on ALL-UFL Team ahead of Conference Championship Game

By John Goolsby Prep Sports Editor

The Birmingham Stallions placed five players on the inaugural ALL-UFL Team.

The Michigan Panthers led the league with seven selections. St. Louis, like Birmingham, had five players selected to the team.

Stallions selected:

• Adrian Martinez, Quarterback

Zack Johnson, Guard

• Jace Sternberger, Tight

went 9 of 11 for

End Carlos Davis, Devensive Line A.J. Thomas, Safety 2024 All-UFL Team

Offense Quarterback – Adrian Martinez, Birmingham Stallions Running Back – Jacob Saylors, St. Louis Battlehawks Wide Receiver – Hakeem Butler, St. Louis Battlehawks; Daewood Davis, Memphis Showboats; Mar-

make the most of his opportunity. “You know, it’s just all about knowing your role and doing the best with your ability,” Corral said.

cus Simms, Michigan Panthers Tight End – Jace Sternberger, Birmingham Stallions

Offensive Tackle – Jaryd Jones-Smith, St. Louis Battlehawks; Bobby Evans, Arlington Renegades

Offensive Guard – Zack Johnson, Birmingham Stallions; Kohl Levao, San Antonio Brahmas Center – Mike Panasiuk, St. Louis Battlehawks

Defense Defensive Line – Carlos

Head coach Skip Holtz had praise for both of his quarterbacks.

“Well, we wouldn’t be here without Adrian Martinez and what he has done this season,” said Holtz.

“I just felt like we needed a spark. We needed

Davis, Birmingham Stallions; Daniel Wise, Michigan Panthers Edge/Outside Linebacker – Chris Odom, Hous-

something to start it again.”

“You know, he threw an interception there early, but then after that, never blanked,” he said.

“When he got in, he made the most of it.”

Martinez was 10 of 19 for 164 yards with a touchdown and an interception before being relieved.

C.J. Marable led the Stallions with 77 rushing yards on eight carries.

Nine different Stallions had at least one reception. Marlon Williams and Deon Cain led the team with three receptions. Thomas led the team with 62 yards receiving.

Holt had high praise for his team. “Nobody flinched,” he said. “Nobody worried about losing. They just kept playing. Our defense kept us in it.”

“When our offense was struggling, the offense came back, put some points up,” he said.

“It was just a great team effort with a group of guys that believe in each other. They play together, and they play with just an unbelievable passion and resolve,” Holtz said. “And I’m really proud of them.”

“We have great players.

LEGAL NOTICE INVITATION FOR BIDS

ton Roughnecks; Breeland Speaks, Michigan Panthers Inside Linebacker – Tavante Beckett, San Antonio Brahmas; Willie Harvey, St. Louis Battlehawks Cornerback – Deandre Baker, D.C. Defenders; Nate Brooks, Michigan Panthers; Ajene Harris, Arlington Renegades Safety – Kai Nacua, Michigan Panthers; A.J. Thomas, Birmingham Stallions Special Teams Kicker – Jake Bates,

We have great fans,” he said.

“More importantly, these guys, they work hard. They believe in each other, and they won’t take no for an answer.”

“And I am just blessed and fortunate to have the opportunity to coach such a group of fantastic young men,” he said. The Stallions and Holtz, 31-4 over the last three years, have now won their respective division/ conference championship game for three straight seasons (USFL South Division Champions in 2022-23; USFL Conference Champions in 2024). They will make their third straight league championship game appearance, coming off back-to-back USFL Championships in 2022-23. Holtz and Birmingham are undefeated (5-0) in the postseason all-time. Birmingham scored 28 unanswered points over the final 30 minutes and 53 seconds of the game. The Stallions won their 10th game of the season, marking three straight seasons that they have reached double-digit victories.

The Stallions now hold a 7-1 record against the

Michigan Panthers Punter – Marquette King, Arlington Renegades

Long Snapper – Jordan Ober, Michigan Panthers

Return Specialist – Chris Rowland, D.C. Defenders

The Stallions take on the Panthers in the USFL Conference Championship Game at 2 p.m. CDT Saturday at Protective Stadium in Birmingham. ABC will televise the game. The winner advances to the UFL Championship Game in St. Louis.

Panthers. Michigan’s lone victory, 9-7, came in the first-ever game for the Stallions in 1983.

As a franchise, the Stallions hold a record of 69-24.

The Stallions take on the winner of tomorrow’s St. Louis vs San Antonio XFL Conference Championship Game next Sunday at 4 PM. The game will be televised on Fox.

Project Name: Contract to Supply – Approximately 168,000 lbs of USA Made Granular Activated Carbon (GAC) in Turnkey Carbon Exchange Bid Date and Time: June 27, 2024 at 10:00 A.M.

Sealed Bids will be received by Trussville Gas and Water located in Trussville, Alabama, until the local time set forth below, for furnishing all labor, equipment and doing the work of constructing, according to Plans, Speci cations and Contract Documents on le in the o ce of Trussville Gas and Water, the project hereinafter described. No bid will be received after the time set forth below; and the Bids will be publicly opened and read at Trussville Gas and Water Engineering Dept., 6620 Green Drive, Trussville, Alabama 35173. Interested contractors can obtain prequali cation applications from TG&W Engineering Department (“Engineering Department”), 6620 Green Drive, Trussville, Alabama 35173; Telephone: (205) 228-1091 and must submit the completed prequali cation application to the Engineering Department at the above address, no later than 10:00AM on June 27, 2024.

The Board desires to have a turnkey exchange of four (4) GAC lters. Each lter contains 1,392 ft of carbon for a total of 5.568 ft3 of carbon for all 4 lters. An optional price shall include truck haul o of removed spent carbon and disposed of on customers property and an optional price including leaving spent carbon in supersacks and left for drying and disposal by customer.

On Exhibit A. Contractor shall state its price for the turnkey carbon exchange of four GAC lters with each lter containing 1,392 ft3 of carbon for a total of 5,568 ft3 in all four lters. This price shall include freight with delivery and o oad once on site. Contractor shall also state its price in Bid Option A for removing all spent carbon from site and dispose of it in a land ll or other disposal facility. Contractor shall also state its price in Bid Option B for placing all spent carbon in supersacks and leave on customer's property. Once awarded bid, the bidder shall have until August 1, 2024 to complete the project.

Product shall be 100 % fresh virgin Granular Activated Carbon made in the United States of America. The coal for the corresponding GAC shall be mined in the United States of America. The GAC shall be capable of removing tastes, odors, and other organic contaminants from water. The successful bidder shall provide written documentation that the carbon being supplied is 100% virgin. with no reactivated carbon content whatsoever. The GAC must be a 100% reagglomerated bituminous coal-based product sized to granular form prior to thermal activation.

The Product furnished by Contractor shall meet the following other requirements:

Each Product and its components must be new and not refurbished.

The GAC shall comply with AWWA 8604. latest edition.

The GAC shall conform to the requirements of NSF/ANSI/CAN 61 Drinking Water System Components- Health E ects standard. Bidder shall indicate source of coal, carbon manufacturing location and a description of the reagglomeration/thermal process.

The preferred method for carbon installation of virgin GAC shall be hydraulic water induction.

The Owner shall be responsible for providing the water supply needed to complete the process. Depth of GAC in each lter bed is 48" thick.

Plans, Speci cations and Contract Documents for the project described above are open to public inspection at Trussville Gas and Water Engineering Dept., 6620 Green Drive, Trussville, Alabama 35173. Telephone: (205) 228-1129. Speci cations may also be viewed on the Trussville Gas and Water website, Trussville.com under the News tab.

Trussville Gas and Water reserves the right to reject any or all bids, to waive any informality in any bid, and to accept any bid considered advantageous to the Owner.

No bid may be withdrawn after the time for opening bids has passed. Trussville Gas and Water reserves the right to hold the bids for a period of Sixty (60) days after the date of receiving Bids.

If said bid equals $100,000.00 or more, a certi ed check or bid bond must accompany each bid in an amount of not less than ve percent (5%) of the total bid, but in no event more than $10,000.00. The payee of such check, or the obligee of such bond, shall be Trussville Gas and Water. Contractor agrees to comply with all speci cations, plans and contract documents as furnished by Trussville Gas and Water. Contractor must be licensed under the provisions of Title 34 Chapter 8, Code of Alabama, 1975. Prior to submitting a bid for this project, contractor must be prequali ed as a Gas and Water Line Utility Contractor for Trussville Gas and Water. Contractor prequali cation applications may be obtained at Trussville Gas and Water Engineering Dept., 6620 Green Drive, Trussville, Alabama 35173.

Carson Underwood and Easton Morris –Hewitt-Trussville Fishing Team.

Corral

120 yards with two touchdowns and one interception. Corral was happy to

Head coach Skip Holtz of the Birmingham Stallions holds the USFL Conference Champion Trophy after defeating the Michigan Panthers at Protective Stadium on June 08, 2024 in Birmingham, Alabama.

(Photo by Matthew Stockman/UFL/ Getty Images)