Trussville OKs land rezoning for possible commercial development
Transcription
Trussville OKs land rezoning for possible commercial development
JefCoEd Spring football names interim previews for Clay, superintendent, page 5 Pinson, page 17 www.trussvilletribune.com The Trussville Tribune Your news source for Trussville, Clay and Pinson May 14 - 20, 2014 50¢ Trussville OKs land rezoning for possible commercial development on U.S. 11 by Gary Lloyd Editor The Trussville City Council on Tuesday voted to rezone a portion of land on U.S. Highway 11 for future commercial development. The area of 1941 Gadsden Highway through 2101 Gadsden Highway, roughly 27 acres, was rezoned to commercial after about an hourlong public hearing. The action just approves the zoning of the land, not of the commercial development itself. The Trussville Planning and Zoning Board had recommended the zoning to the city council. Blackwater Resources has an option on the stretch of U.S. Highway 11 starting at Gloria’s Hair Salon and up to and including the boarded-up house across from the Tutwiler Farm subdivision entrance. Trussville City Clerk Lynn Porter said in January that the company had about 70 percent of the space spoken for with no duplication of retailers already in Trussville. Blackwater Resources has not disclosed who the retailers are. The shopping center space could cover more than 290,000 square feet, generate $45 million in sales and create 550 jobs, according to the company. The potential shopping center would have three access points. A new traffic light would likely be constructed at the Calumet Downs entrance. Many Calumet Downs residents voiced their opposition to the possible shopping center. Most cited traffic congestion and diminishing property values as reasons not to have a development across from their subdivision. “I feel like we’re paving Trussville from one end to the other,” a Dew Gardens resident said. Habitat Home Builders Blitz in Clay: ‘We prayed for a day like this’ by Gary Lloyd Editor Marilyn Phillips was too excited last Wednesday night, too eager for the next day, that she accidentally painted part of a wall inside her new home with primer instead of paint. But that’s OK, because she was taking pride in her home, wanting it complete for herself and daughter Amari. Last Thursday, Phillips’ home, along with the homes of 12 other families, was dedicated in Clay’s Winchester Hills subdivision, part of the ninth annual Greater Birmingham Habitat for Humanity Home Builders Blitz. Hundreds, maybe thousands, of volunteers helped in the weeklong building project. Twelve building companies participated. “I had such a great time at last year’s Blitz that I volunteered to serve as this year’s event chair,” said Kyle Murphy from Murphy Home Builders. “The photo by Ron Burkett Tyechia Owens receives the keys to her new home in Clay last week. Councilman Anthony Montalto said traffic will continue to increase in Trussville. “People want to come to Trussville,” he said. “If they live here, they want to shop here.” One Trussville resident said crime will increase with another shopping censee REZONING page 2 Matt Pitt speaks for first time since release: ‘One of the greatest experiences of my life’ by Gary Lloyd Editor photo by Ron Burkett Tamika Pope, with her family around her, shows off her home’s keys to a crowd at last Thursday’s dedication in Clay. Home Builders Blitz is a great way for builders to get involved with Habitat and help families who would not be able to purchase a home through conventional means achieve their dreams.” Families at last Thursday’s dedication ceremony wore lime green T-shirts with “I’m a Proud Homeowner” stitched across the front in blue. “We prayed for a day like this,” said Tara Sweeney, who will live in one of the new homes with sons JaCarrius, Jayden, T’yon and Alonzo. “We’re just so happy for this opportunity.” Builders presented families with large picture frames including photos from the week, Bibles and keys to their new homes. “Without Habitat, this wouldn’t be possible,” said new homeowner Carla Smith, who will live with her son Justin. Brittany Dixon, with daughters Alana and Londyn beside her, said the week was a “very pleasurable experience” and that she was “in love with my home.” “Owning a home will give my family stability; I will have the space to play with and teach my children new things,” Dixon said. “It is such a blessing to be a part of this program and to know that very soon my daughters will have a place to call our home. God has photo courtesy of The Basement The Basement founder and youth evangelist Matt Pitt The first thing Matt Pitt wanted to do when he was released from Shelby County Jail last month was go back in. The Basement founder and youth evangelist, who served eight months for a probation revocation on an impersonating a police officer charge, wanted everyone to come inside, to see see PITT page 6 see HABITAT page 4 Zoning for Kellogg’s warehouse could be discussed again in Pinson by Gary Lloyd Editor The Pinson City Council meets Thursday, May 15 at 6:30 p.m. at Pinson City Hall, and a rezoning issue may be discussed again. The city council last month voted to reconsider a previous action, one in which the rezoning of land at 7068 Highway 75 for a Kellogg’s warehouse was denied. For the rezoning to pass, four positive votes were needed. Dawn Tanner, Robbie Roberts and Joy McCain voted for the rezoning. Mayor Hoyt Sanders and John Churchwell voted against it. Joe Cochran was not present for the vote. To be approved, the vote needed to be 2/3. “A motion to reconsider can be made by a member voting in the majority from the previous action,” Sanders said. “The matter was then tabled till the next meeting to confirm any legal steps to reconsider a zoning case.” Sanders said last month he didn’t believe there had been a motion to reconsid- Inside The Tribune: News – pages 2 - 8 Lifestyle – pages 9 - 12 Calendar – page 13 Opinion – page 14 Sports – pages 15 - 17 8 63150 00000 5 non-intrusive as possible and as far away on the property from housing as possible. The city has already designated the area as a site for future highway commercial businesses, according to the master plan. According to current zoning rules these businesses could include bus stations, funeral homes, printing A+Tire & Erik Carmack, Owner business builder ad (Feb, March, April 2013) Auto Repair 1043 Gadsden Highway 24 HR Plumbing and HVAC Service ■ Heating ■ Cooling ■ Plumbing We’d like to have a special of “mention this ad and ■ Electrical we will waive your truck charge for a savings of up to $25.00. No Overtime ■ General Construction We’d like to incorporate all of our trades somehow. These include Heating, Cooling, Plumbing, Electrical, and General Construction. Our website is www.trin.com. er on a zoning case since Pinson has been doing zoning, which has been for three years. “All others have been re-classification based on annexation,” Sanders said. The owner of the property, Jason Stidham, wants to open the warehouse, and he has said the warehouse would be quiet, hidden from view by trees, as Rate 205-229-2090 We carry fresh flowers, blooming and green plants,fruit and snack (205)833.1771 Engine Diagnostics Truck Accessories Oil Changes Alignments AC Service Brakes Tires and publishing businesses, automotive repair, a gym, or an automotive or recreational vehicle dealership, in addition to more commercial endeavors. Mention Contact Gary this Lloyd at ad and news@trussvilletribune. com and follow him on receive Twitter @GaryALloyd. We offe $40 off and Pa With hu a set in stock, Located on Camp Coleman Roa of any (NEXT TO PUMP-IT-UP) Tires! 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The Thanks Badge II honors a previous Thanks Badge I recipient who has continued to provide exemplary service in a leadership role, resulting in a measurable impact that benefits the total council of entire Girl Scouts movement. Page, of Birmingham, received the 30 Years of Service pin. by Gary Lloyd Editor A pair of Trussville women won Volunteer of Excellence awards at the Girl Scouts of North-Central Alabama annual meeting earlier this week. Allison Rudick and Annette Wickert, both of Trussville, were recognized as volunteers who have contributed outstanding service while partnering directly with girls to teach leadership or who have supported the delivery of the council’s mission to girl and adult members. Sherry Holloway of Mount Olive and Catherine Fowler of Mountain Brook also won the award. Frances Faulks, Jeanette Humes and Peggie Myles of Birmingham received the Juliette’s Pearls award, which recognizes an outstanding volunteer who has served Girl Scouts for 10 or more years and has had a significant impact on GSNCA. Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Alabama received the Juliette Low Community Partnership Award. Sophie Martin accepted the award on its behalf. This award recognizes a corporation, civic organization or spiritual community that has collaborated with the council to advance the council’s mission and goals and resulted in positive community awareness of the Girl Scouts movement. Maria Burke of Vestavia Hills, Judy Cullinan of Mountain Brook, Dee Walker and Joyce Christian of Birmingham received the Appreciation pin, which recognizes outstanding service that goes beyond the expectations for the recipient’s position. Rachel Estes of Homewood and Beverly Alldredge of Birmingham received the Honor Pin. This award recognizes an individual’s exemplary service in support of delivery of ter. Another said Trussville doesn’t need any more big box retailers. According to Blackwater Resources’ website, the company has managed and leased properties at the Vestavia City Center, Patton Creek in Hoover, the River Trace Shopping Center in Gadsden, the Northside Mall in Dothan and the Market Shoppes in Decatur. by Gary Lloyd from The Women’s Fund of Greater Birmingham built the home for Keyona Samuels and her family, on Vernon Street. More than 13,000 volunteers were expected to partner with 300 Habitat for Humanity affiliates across the country to help build affordable housing in their local communities last week. Now in its seventh year, National Women Build Week challenges women to devote at least one day to the effort to eliminate poverty housing. REZONING continued from page 1 the Girl Scout Leadership Experience, which has had measurable impact on two or more geographic areas of service, allowing the council to surpass its missiondelivery goals. Service Units 54, Mountain Brook, and 56, Shades Mountain, received the Girl Scouts of the USA President’s Award. Accepting the awards on behalf of volunteers of each unit were Cullinan, service unit man- ager for Mountain Brook, and Joan Page, service unit manager for Shades Mountain. The President’s Award recognizes the efforts of Contact Gary Lloyd at news@trussvilletribune. com and follow him on Twitter @GaryALloyd. Contact Gary Lloyd at news@trussvilletribune. com and follow him on Twitter @GaryALloyd. Home built in Chalkville area part of National Women Build Week Editor A home was built in the Chalkville area Friday as part of National Women Build Week. The Greater Birmingham Habitat for Humanity and Lowe’s teamed up for the build. Ten volunteers Contact Gary Lloyd at news@trussvilletribune. com and follow him on Twitter @GaryALloyd. 137 North Chalkville Road, Trussville 205-655-0313 WE BUY GOLD! WE BUY YOUR OLD BROKEN OR UNWANTED GOLD, STERLING SILVER, COINS, CHAINS, JEWELRY, AND DIAMONDS (ANY SIZE) ALABAMA WHOLESALE DIAMONDS www.AlabamaWeBuyGold.com 1820 Tin Valley Circle at Hwy 11 TRUSSVILLE (205) 661-1667 (ACROSS FROM THE PANTS STORE) Tuesday-Friday 10am-5:30pm • Saturday 10:00am - 4:00pm HIGHEST PRICES PAID FOR GOLD • STERLING SILVER PLATINUM • COINS • DIAMONDS • JEWELRY • WATCHES alwholAD140218.indd 1 2/18/14 4:11 PM May 14 - 20, 2014 | Rotary hears from international speaker by Gary Lloyd Editor E! The Trussville Rotary Daybreak Club hosted internationally known Dr. Ashok Kapadia at its weekly breakfast on May 7. Kapadia has served in various capacities within the Rotary Club, including president of the Rotary Club of Bharuch in 19911992. His club was formed in 1944, and he was the first district governor from his club. Among his club’s projects are a drinking water project, assistance during an earthquake, and a dolls museum that included dolls from 91 countries. His club has 100 members. He said there are 124,000 Rotarians in India as of April. Kapadia comes to the United States every few years. photo by Diane Poole Rotary Club President Alan Taylor, left, with Ashok Kapadia that new n on 12th ose! son. ary! JeffCo GOP straw poll results revealed by Gary Lloyd Editor Results from Saturday’s Jefferson County Republican Straw Poll fundraiser at the Gardendale Civic Center have been revealed. In the governor straw poll, Gov. Robert Bentley won. Kay Ivey was revealed as the straw poll winner in the lieutenant governor category. Paul DeMarco won the straw poll for Alabama’s Sixth Congressional District. In the House of Representatives District 44 straw poll, John Amari, of Trussville, was named the winner. Fellow Trussville residents Joe Freeman and Danny Garrett are running for the seat, which covers Trussville, Clay and Pinson. Brett King was revealed as the straw poll winner for State Senate District 17. Other candidates are Trussville’s Shay Shelnutt, Pinson’s Joe Cochran, Jim Murphree, Gayle Gear, Adam Ritch and Jim Roberts. Other straw poll winners included Adam Thompson (auditor), Jeremy Oden (Public Service Commis- Tues-Fri 11am-6pm Sat 10am-5pm Closed Sun & Mon Tutus-Tights Leotards-Jazz Shoes Tutus-Tights Leotards-Jazz Shoes Tap & Ballet Shoes Clogging Shoes with Buck Taps Philip Anthony 107 N Chalkville Rd Trussville AL 35173 Master colorist / stylist Trussville Construction & Roofing Decks Windows Roofing As a local contractor with 30 years of www.PeeWeesPawn. Remodeling experience, we’re here to help with all Painting com of your home projects and additions. 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Wilson, MD Pediatrics (205)681.8002 Tamara Mason, MD Ann-Katrin Wilson, MD Page 4 May 14 - 20, 2014 | The Trussville Tribune High Fly’s new Trussville location Trussville Dunkin’ Donuts Craigslist ‘hacked,’ ‘awesome,’ owner says ad goes up asking for by Erik Harris For The Tribune High Fly, a mainstream competitive cheerleading and dance organization, has a new 28,000-square-foot Trussville location, on Valley Road, that opened earlier this year. The original High Fly was on Camp Coleman Road, established about 11 years ago. Owner Shane Sharpe said the company has grown significantly. “This location has been awesome, the parents can make a really quick move over to any of the stores to go shopping or grab a bite to eat while they drop their kid off,” Sharpe said. “The other location wasn’t very convenient.” photo by Scott Buttram A scene from High Fly in Trussville High Fly teaches gymnastics-based skills, essential tools for cheerleaders. The business has groomed more than 90 college athletes over the past few years, Sharpe said. “We have a high number of kids that HABITAT continued from page 1 come through and get a college scholarship,” Sharpe said. “We’re really proud of that.” Getting athletes to the next level will continue to be a priority for High Fly, as it welcomes a new chapter of business this week. An additional building for baseball and softball sessions will enter its preparation phase this week. Both facilities will soon share the same lot, one behind the other. The baseball and softball complex will offer 10 batting cages and a full infield for practice use. “It (creates) a complete sports training facility, not just a cheerleading training facility,” Sharpe said. “That’s our goal; we want to be a complete sports training facility.” Also earlier this year, Trussville’s Ta Tumble U merged with ACE Cheer Company to form ACE of Trussville, located on Camp Coleman Road. photo by Ron Burkett Greater Birmingham Habitat for Humanity President and CEO Charles Moore speaks to the crowd as the families moving into new homes look on. ‘white’ employees by Gary Lloyd Editor A Trussville Dunkin’ Donuts job listing posted on the Birmingham Craigslist website asking for “young personable white people who can listen” is the result of a hack, according to the company. The ad was posted last Sunday with the headline “Cooks, cashiers and time to make the donuts (Trussville).” The ad in part states, “No more cry babies or welfare chasers!!!” and asks to not waste time “with non experienced people from center point. If your from center point apply at that location please.” “We are aware of the Craigslist ad in question, and upon following up with our local franchisee learned that truly answered my prayers and I am indeed thankful.” Moneyette Armstrong said her new home in Clay, where she’ll live with daughters Trinity and Zion, is “truly a blessing.” Tamika Pope, along with daughters Cortney, Camilah and Caliya, and granddaughter Jhonna, said she was happy to see the day finally come. “I couldn’t wait for my day to come and it’s here, and I’m so happy,” Pope said. Tiffany Sweeney said their Craigslist account had been hacked,” Dunkin’ Donuts said in a statement. “The ad in question was not posted by our franchisee. Dunkin’ Donuts and our franchisee contacted Craigslist to have the ad removed.” The ad appears to have been removed late last Wednesday afternoon. Dunkin’ Brands Group Public Relations Manager Justin Drake said he believes the ad was not posted by a current employee. “While we are currently working with our franchisee to investigate who may have been responsible for the post, our franchisee has no reason to believe it is a current employee,” Drake said. Contact Gary Lloyd at news@ trussvilletribune.com and follow him on Twitter @GaryALloyd. last Thursday’s dedication was “very emotional.” She said it was special seeing her kids, Nicholas and Nakia, run through the house for the first time. “They were everywhere,” she said. Others who received keys to their new homes last week were Shaunte Miller; Cathy Walker and daughters Calandra and Cassandra; Tyechia Owens and children Cameron, Courtlyn and Cydney; Ashley Robinson and daughter Mari; Jareace Boxley and daughter Jillian; and Oneasha Swanson and son Mentae. “Me and my son are very, very happy,” Swanson said. At the end of last Thursday’s ceremony, Clay Mayor Charles Webster presented certificates to each family. “We’re glad to have you in Clay,” Webster said. Contact Gary Lloyd at news@trussvilletribune. com and follow him on Twitter @GaryALloyd. Trussville library gets more than 22,000 April visits by Gary Lloyd Editor The Trussville Public Library registered 22,123 visits in April, Trussville City Council President Buddy Choat said at Tuesday’s Trussville City Council meeting. The library also gained 73 new members in April, he said. “The library is one of May 14 - 20, 2014 the biggest assets to our community,” Choat said. On Tuesday, June 10 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., 10 percent of sales at Bojangles on U.S. Highway 11 in Trussville will go toward the Trussville Public Library, Choat said. | Page 5 The Trussville Tribune JefCoEd names interim superintendent by Gary Lloyd Editor Contact Gary Lloyd at news@trussvilletribune. com and follow him on Twitter @GaryALloyd. The Jefferson County Board of Education on Friday named Bobby Neighbors, of Nixburg, its interim superintendent. Neighbors replaces Stephen Nowlin, who earlier this month was moved to a consulting job within the school system for the remainder of his contract. Neighbors was the Jefferson County School District superintendent from Chief Deputy Randy Christian said. Christian said the man got out and offered to help. After looking under the hood he told her that she needed oil and coolant, and offered to drive her to the store to get it. She believed him to be a Good Samaritan and got in the van, Christian said. He took her to three gas stations in Fairfield and then back to her car. Once they arrived back at her car the man slapped her, sexually assaulted her and took her money and cell phone, Christian said. He then left her on the side of the road. Another passing motorist stopped and called 911. Sheriff’s detectives began work on the case and sent the description of the vehicle and the suspect to law enforcement agencies across the Southeast. On April 30, detectives received information from Mississippi, Alabama and Georgia that provided valuable leads in the case and painted a picture of a three-state crime spree. The investigation revealed that a man matching the suspect’s 2000-2003. He was appointed when the school system was put in state intervention for financial challenges. “He calmed the waters and helped us through difficult challenges then, and he can do so again for us,” said board President Jennifer Parsons. Neighbors formerly was the former superintendent of Jasper City Schools. His son, Mark Neighbors, is the superintendent of Opelika City Schools. Neighbors’ first official day was Monday. He will serve as interim superintendent for the system’s 56 schools through June 30. His compensation can’t exceed $23,000 because he is in the retirement system for the Alabama Retirement System for Alabama schools. The board expects to have a permanent superintendent by July 1. photo courtesy of Jefferson County Schools Bobby Neighbors Contact Gary Lloyd at news@trussvilletribune. com and follow him on Twitter @GaryALloyd. Suspect in I-59 sexual assault captured, charged by Gary Lloyd Editor A suspect was arrested and charged last week in a sexual assault case that happened on Interstate 59 near mile marker 117 on April 23. A 34-year-old victim reported that her car had broken down, leaving her stranded. While she was waiting for help a passing motorist in a white van stopped. The male driver of the van was the only occupant, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office Introducing our new BB&T team. Here to help you achieve your goals. We’re proud to introduce the team at our new Trussville financial center. You’ll find them easy to talk to. Interested in knowing you personally. And ready to share financial knowledge that helps you move forward in a brighter direction. Stop by and see us, and start experiencing the BB&T difference today. BBT.com photo courtesy of Cobb County Jail Malachi Josephus Moody description had robbed a woman in Byram, Miss., on April 22 and then stole the white van from a church in Jackson, Miss. The suspect then drove through Alabama, where he is believed to have attacked the victim on Interstate 59. After that attack he continued to the metro Atlanta area where he robbed another victim and led Cobb County police on a pursuit before being captured. Jefferson County detectives obtained photographs of the suspect and identified him as the man responsible for the attack on a 34-year-old woman who was broken down along Interstate 59 near mile marker 117 on April 23. On May 1, sheriff’s detectives obtained arrest warrants for 21-year-old Malachi Josephus Moody of Jackson, Miss. He’s charged with first-degree rape and first-degree sodomy. He was being extradited to Alabama when released in Georgia. Contact Gary Lloyd at news@trussvilletribune. com and follow him on Twitter @GaryALloyd. Brian’s Trussville Branch 285 Calumet Parkway Trussville, AL 35173 (205) 661-8276 Open Monday – Thursday 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. and Friday 8:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Branch offers full service on Saturday from 9 a.m.-Noon (205)680-3961 Member FDIC. © 2014, Branch Banking and Trust Company. All rights reserved. (205)856-6232 www.brianstree.com Orthodontics East George Nelson DMD CHOICES INCLUDING Clear braces Lingual braces Sara Wolfe DDS,MSD Complimentary consultations Affordable payment options TMJ treatment Page 6 May 14 - 20, 2014 | The Trussville Tribune Alabama joins lawsuit against New York’s gun ban bear arms in the defense of themselves and their families,” Strange said. “I and other attorneys general believe these fundamental rights deserve the highest protection and that New York’s gun ban is unconstitutional under principles the Supreme Court has already established.” Alabama was the lead author of the bipartisan brief, joined by attorneys general representing Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, West Virginia and Wyoming. The brief explains that semiautomatic firearms are commonly owned by law-abiding citizens for lawful purposes. It urges the Second Circuit Court of Appeals to subject New York’s categorical ban of certain semiautomatic weapons to heightened scrutiny. The brief argues that, because New York failed to show that banning semiautomatic weapons would increase public safety or decrease gun violence, the ban is unconstitutional. what was happening in a place not accustomed to positivity. “It was so alive and revival was really happening that I wanted everybody in the lobby, if I could have had one dream at this moment, I would have had everybody to come see what God was doing in this block,” Pitt said. Pitt went into the jail to begin serving time last August. About two months in, he began a “prayer call” each night at 8:30 with one, maybe two inmates. Those couple became four. Four became eight. Eight turned into 12, then 12 became 32. Prayer calls were then held each morning, after lunch and at night. “It was so cool,” Pitt said. Pitt said he received many postcards and words of encouragement during his once-a-day, 15-minute phone calls. “I couldn’t thank people enough,” Pitt said. He said he knows there are also critics. He remembers the old saying, “Sticks and stones may break your bones, but words will never hurt you.” Then, he shakes his head. “That’s a lie,” he said. “Words hurt.” There were nights he cried in jail, he said. He felt misunderstood, and was upset that his family were having to go through the ordeal. That was the toughest part, he said. In jail, inmates are promised an orange outfit, three meals per day and a Bible. “The word of God became everything to me,” Pitt said. “I had to eat, sleep and breathe God’s word because inside there, you’re scared. You’re going through a lot of emotions.” Inmates heard bad news from family at home, from lawyers about their cases. One of Pitt’s cellmates was looking at a 20-year sentence and was never happy. Pitt said he found his place by praying for others, for those with addictions, for those who needed their marriages restored, for those who just needed to know God would forgive them. “That became my church, just being able to pray for people,” he said. “I felt so blessed to just be in there just doing time.” Some inmates were suicidal. Some inmates would use the phone to call people on the outside, but no one would answer. Pitt told inmates there was a family on the outside who would listen to them. His parents began fielding phone calls from inmates. Pitt called in to The Basement in Trussville. The prayer calls that were taking place got so big that they couldn’t be done in the lower part of a cell block in Shelby County Jail. One inmate asked if they could move it to “the upper room.” Pitt remembered that from Acts 1. “When he said that, I thought, ‘No way. This is it,’” he said. Inmates throughout the jail heard about it, he said. The room got crowded. Inmates listened from the stairwell. Pitt spoke from atop a toilet. “Everybody was trying to get in,” he said. It was the same room, Pitt said, where inmates would get into altercations before he was put in jail. Inmates asked each other if that was the same room, he said. “That was the biggest miracle inside jail,” Pitt said. Pitt said one inmate considered suicidal was brought to stay with him in his cell, despite there being empty cells. After spending some time with Pitt and at prayer calls, the inmate ended up preaching in one of the blocks. Fighting in the jail declined. Guards and inmates got along, smiled at each other, Pitt said. “You’re not used to seeing peace between the inmates and the guards, and there became a lot of it,” he said. Pitt spent time in multiple blocks, something he said he felt like God was doing so he could go through every room in the jail to identify with every kind of inmate. Pitt said he feels bettered by the expe- rience. “I believe that it will be one of the greatest experiences of my life,” he said. “God uses every kind of thing in my life. He uses trouble, He uses trials. Any time I’ve been knocked down, He uses the pit as my greatest story. He’s always used the craziness of my life to reach so many more people.” Pitt said being incarcerated has opened his eyes to who to speak to. He hasn’t put together the eightmonth experience on paper yet, likening it to a move he hasn’t yet been able to package. “Now that I’ve been where a lot of people in my generation are, I believe that this will be one of the greatest stories I could tell for the rest of my life,” Pitt said. While in Shelby County Jail, Pitt got an hour outside per day, just a “dog kettle” area where 60 or more inmates could look up and see the sky, feel the heat or cold. Every day, Pitt said, he wondered what it would be like in the grass, seeing trees. Now that he’s out, he sometimes steps outside, just to sit in the grass. “It gets no better than this,” he said. “Everything has changed. It’s just such a blessing to even be able to walk outside now.” He said he’ll look around and think, “I’m never leaving this place. I want to sit and look at this forever.” He said he notices things he didn’t before. He’s trying to see everything, every place, in Alabama. “Sometimes God will put you in the dark, in order for you to see the light,” Pitt said. “My passion is now at a level it’s never been. My commitment, my dedication to reaching lives, oh, it’s on now. God used it to spark a fire in my heart to reach this generation. That’s what I’m going to do.” on June 3 ERNAT 205 661-3656 IO www.justsayosu.com O S U K John Amari is deeply rooted in our community beginning with his grandparents and the Huffman Curb Market and continuing to his family today. IN T L NA Vote Republican John amaRi Rd N Contact Gary Lloyd at news@trussvilletribune. com and follow him on Twitter @GaryALloyd. Y PITT continued from page 1 Contact Gary Lloyd at news@trussvilletribune. com and follow him on Twitter @GaryALloyd. AR AT E M Editor JAP A Alabama Attorney General Luther Strange last week filed an amicus brief, or friend of the court brief, that was joined by a bipartisan group of 21 attorneys general against a New York law banning certain kinds of semiautomatic firearms. The brief was filed in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit as a part of a lawsuit filed by organizations and individual gun-owners who challenged New York’s gun ban. “This brief is about protecting the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding citizens to by Gary Lloyd D O ACA D E John is a lifelong resident of Northeast Jefferson County and a Hewitt-Trussville H.S. graduate. John is active in the community. John is on the Sav-a-life Jr. Board, which is a faith based pro-life organization. John is a volunteer baseball coach. KARATE KID KAMP A great way to see if this art form is for your little Ninja. June 16- 20th 2014 Registration May 3rd through May 23rd 2014 Classes are Monday Through Friday 9am-12pm Each day includes physical conditioning and fun new learning experiences that are meant to prepare students for the challenges of life. Karate, self- defense, Sword and Staff will be taught all week. Ages 5 and up. The entire week for $125. John is an attorney in the general practice of law; helping families solve problems. John Amari: • Is strongly pro-life and will fight to protect the 2nd Amendment • Is for low taxes, fiscal responsibility and limiting the size of government • Will protect private property rights • Supports term limits Faith Household Cleaning Services James 2:20 Faith without works is dead. You leave the MESS, we’ll do the REST! We treat every home like it’s our own. John Amari is for: • More Leadership and less politics • More Freedoms and less regulation • More Family and less government F A I T H AMARI JOHN STATE HOUSE John and wife, Ambre, with their children, John Paul, Maya and Vinny. H o m e g row n • C o n s e rvat i v e • L e a d e r s H i p Paid for by Friends of John Amari • P.O. Box 633 • Trussville, AL 35173 stoves-refrigerators-walls baseboards-floors blinds-windows-garages Residential Homes Apartments New Construction Offices/Office Buildings No job is too big or too small. Call us today for a FREE estimate 205-422-5643 Latonya Smith, Owner BONDED ~ INSURED ~ STATE CERTIFIED May 14 - 20, 2014 | Page 7 The Trussville Tribune 1 area residence part of nationwide drug raid and residences were raided last week. He said 30 to 40 of the nearly 200 locations raided nationwide were in Alabama. Payne said the drugs come from China and law enforcement officials are targeting the importers, who are routinely convenience store owners. The drugs carry a large profit margin, Payne said. Payne said authorities believe this could be a matter of national security. “We don’t know for sure that these guys are funding terror, but the money’s going to the Middle East so that’s red flag No. 1,” Payne said. Designer synthetic drugs have caused significant organ damage and overdose deaths. Over the past five years, the DEA by Gary Lloyd Editor A national takedown on the synthetic designer drug market was carried out last Wednesday, and one location was in the area. A residence on Falling Creek Lane in Grayson Valley near Trussville was raided. Other areas raided in Jefferson County included Center Point, Birmingham and Mulga. The Drug Enforcement Administration, Customs and Border Protection, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations, FBI, IRS and other federal, state and local partners announced the culmination of Project Synergy Phase II, an ongoing effort targeting every level of the dangerous global synthetic designer drug market. Since January and leading up to early Wednesday morning, nationwide enforcement operations have taken place targeting these drug trafficking organizations that have operated in communities across the country. The second phase of the Project Synergy, which began in January, culminated last Wednesday morning in 29 states, involved more than 45 DEA offices serving nearly 200 search warrants. As of last week, more than 150 individuals had been arrested and has identified between 200 and 300 new designers drugs from eight different structural classes, the vast majority of which are manufactured in China. “Many who manufacture, distribute and sell these dangerous synthetic drugs found out first hand today that DEA will target, find and prosecute those who have committed these crimes,” said DEA Administrator Michele M. Leonhart. “The success of Project Synergy II could not have been possible without the assistance of our state, local and foreign law enforcement partners. We stand united in our commitment to aggressively pursue criminals who are all too willing to experiment on our children and young Some of the drugs from one of the busts last week and manufacturers, many of these investigations continued to uncover the massive flow of drug-related proceeds to countries in the Middle East, including Yemen, Jordan, Syria, Lebanon and others. Investigations also targeted trade implements such as organic leaves and packaging material used in preparation for drug re-sale and distribution. These facilitators are key players in the designer drug industry. DEA spokesman Rusty Payne said several stores Contact Gary Lloyd at news@trussvilletribune. com and follow him on Twitter @GaryALloyd. New location at Trinity-Montclair! photo courtesy of Rusty Payne federal, state and local law enforcement authorities had seized hundreds of thousands of individually packaged, ready-to-sell synthetic drugs as well as hundreds of kilograms of raw synthetic products to make thousands more. Additionally, more than $20 million in cash and assets were seized. These numbers are expected to grow as investigations continue. Charges of individuals were not released last week. In addition to targeting retailers, wholesalers, adults.” Alabama Gov. Robert Bentley in a news conference last week said 10 Alabama counties, including Jefferson, were involved in Project Synergy. “Alabamians should know that synthetic drugs are dangerous to their health, and as governor, I am going to do everything I can to rid Alabama of these drugs,” Bentley said. “I appreciate the partnership with our federal, state and local law enforcement officers to confiscate synthetic drugs in Alabama.” Birmingham Heart Clinic has opened its 5th location at 880 Montclair Road, Suite 270 in Birmingham. Cardiovascular Care Close to Home! To schedule an appointment call 205.856.2284. Celebrating 20 Years Trussville | Pell City | Oneonta | Birmingham www.birminghamheart.com Restaurant Local Bar & Grill 5880 Trussville Crossings Blvd - Trussville (205)655-6650 FRIDAY, SATURDAY & WEDNESDAY MONDAY & WED @7pm Miss Kelley’s School of Dance 31st Annual Recital SUNDAY, TUESDAY & THURSDAY 50% off FREE SOFT DRINK or TEA DINE IN ONLY - Not valid with other offers. DINE IN ONLY - Not valid with other offers. Buy one adult entree & get the second 1/2 off Expires 5-31-2014 with the purchase of a meat & 2 or a meat & 3 LUNCH ONLY - Expires 5-31-2014 Saturday May 31st Summer dance starts the week of July 8th Call 655-7776 to register Page 8 May 14 - 20, 2014 | The Trussville Tribune Clay moving toward new turf for Cougar Stadium by Lee Weyhrich Staff Writer The Clay City Council is moving forward with plans to upgrade the field at Clay-Chalkville High School’s Cougar Stadium. The city council last week voted to enter into a facilities use agreement with the Jefferson County Board of Education, in which the city would provide up to $265,000 -- roughly half the cost of new field turf -- in exchange for usage of all school sports facilities for the next 15 years. “We reached out to the Jefferson County Board (of Education), and they are very receptive to reaching some sort of intergovernmental agreement where the city of Clay Park and Rec would have the next first option behind the high school, middle school, elementary school and Jefferson County sports,” Clay- Chalkville head football coach Jerry Hood said. Just fixing the existing field would cost between $350,000 and $400,000, Hood said. For around $200,000 more an artificial turf can be installed with a 10-year warranty, and the capability to drain 14,000 gallons per minute with an included underground drainage system. This is the same type of field used by Jacksonville State University and Lincoln High School, and UAB will soon be installing two fields of this type, Hood said. The city would also save on various rental fees. Through the previous agreement, city officials could request the usage of school facilities, such as gyms and fields, a sometimes time-consuming task. The city was also responsible for paying rent for the use of those facilities. Councilman Kevin Small estimates that the city would save more than $150,000 in fees from basketball alone by entering into this agreement. This means that, for the city, a new field could pay for itself in less than two years. The city would still be responsible for the electricity used for events. If everything is approved, the school board will have a bid meeting May 20, with bids for work opening May 27, Hood said. The field could be completed by Aug. 11, or as early as 40 days after groundbreaking, if conditions allow. In other Clay news, the city allocated more than $52,000 to be divided equally among the three Clay-area schools from revenue acquired through the city’s additional sales tax. The city last year approved a two-cent sales tax increase. City Manager Ronnie Dixon said the funds may be used for any items of “direct student benefit.” Chamber names 2014- Trussville Chamber names 2015 ambassadors new board member by Gary Lloyd by Gary Lloyd Editor Editor The Trussville Area Chamber of Commerce last week announced its ambassadors for 2014-2015. Named ambassadors were Jason Sparks, Randy Jinks, Brooke Morris, Sherri Hood, Brigitte Johnson and Michael Lynam. These individuals assist the chamber in recruiting and retaining members, and coordinating events. The Trussville Area Chamber of Commerce announced this week that Michael Korpiel, president and chief operating officer of St. Vincent’s East Hospital, has been appointed to its board of directors. Korpiel fills the term vacated by the resignation of Patricia McKnight. Korpiel has served as president and COO of St. Vincent’s East since December 2013. He is administratively responsible for the 362-bed acute care hospital including the 90-bed psychiatric unit and 20-bed rehabilitation unit. Prior to his position at St. Vincent’s East, he was the COO at the University of Mississippi Hospital and Health System for three years, and from March 2005 through October 2010, he served as vice president of operations for Methodist Hospitals of Dallas. He authored “Issues Related to Clinical Pathways: Managed Care, Implementation, and Liability,” in the Journal of Burn photo by Diane Poole From left are Jason Sparks, Randy Jinks, Brooke Morris, Sherri Hood, Brigitte Johnson and Michael Lynam. Last chance at April car registration in JeffCo Friday by Gary Lloyd Editor The state of Alabama has extended the deadline for renewing April 2014 motor vehicle registrations in Jefferson County until Friday, May 16. Due to the extreme hardships placed on Alabama motor vehicle registrants who reside in locations affected by the severe weather that occurred beginning April 28, the deadline for April 2014 motor vehicle registrations in Jefferson County has been extended until May 16. The car tag renewal deadline in January was also extended by order of Alabama Department of Revenue Commissioner Julie Magee due to the winter storm. submitted photo Michael Korpiel Care and Rehabilitation in 1995. Korpiel earned a bachelor’s degree in health education from Slippery Rock University in Pennsylvania and also a master’s in health care administration from Texas Woman’s University in Dallas. Contact Gary Lloyd at [email protected] and follow him on Twitter @GaryALloyd. HERE’S HOW TO KEEP IN YOUR NEWS FEED… Honest, Reliable Plumbing and HVAC Services • 24-Hour HVAC & Plumbing Services Whether you are a triathlete, an avid player of tennis or golf, or simply want to be able to get around better in your home and community, mobility is often the deciding factor in your quality of life. Our goal is to help you have the optimum level of mobility for your body. • Unit Change-Outs ff your o % 0 1 rvice! • No Overtime Charges first se y! ll Toda a C • Authorized Heil Dealer • New Construction For Service: 183 Main Street, Suite D // Trussville, AL 35173 // 205.655.1009 3125 Independence Drive, Suite 300B // Birmingham, AL 35209 // 205.879.7501 (205) 229-2090 Fax: (205) 951-3450 Tr e a t i n g Pa t i e n t s i n a B e t t e r Wa y Elena M. Llivina, MD We specialize in skin cancer detection and treatment including: Biopsies, Full-Body Skin Exams, Mole Checks, Skin Cancer Surgery and Reconstruction. Seeing patients every Tuesday in the Pell City office or Monday, Wednesday and Thursday in the St. Vincent’s East office. Give us a call today to set up your appointment. St. Vincent’s St. Clair - Outpatient Clinic 7063 Veterans Pkwy Pell City, AL 35125 205-838-1811 St. Vincent’s East -Trussville Office 48 Medical Park Dr. East (Suite458) Birmingham, AL 35235 Lifestyle May 14 - 20, 2014 | Pinson library summer reading kickoff Saturday by Gary Lloyd Page 9 The Trussville Tribune Paine Primary Math Team meets weekly Editor The Pinson Public Library will hold its summer reading kickoff event Saturday, May 17 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event is to celebrate the beginning of the summer reading program, which is for adults, young adults and children. There will be ice cream and Pete the Cat at Saturday’s event. Pinson’s summer reading program is June 2 through July 19. There will be 60 different programs this year, and kids will learn about music, art, animals, science, the library and their community. For teens and adults the library will have book BINGO with prizes. Some of the teen programs include a dance workshop, file photo The Pinson Public Library zombie preparedness and craft programs. Events for adults include a program about Sloss Furnace, introduction to genealogy and a lip-sync battle. In the library’s first year of summer reading in 2012, 14 programs were offered for teens and children. Last year, 40 programs were of- fered for teens, children and adults. The Pinson Public Library is located on Main Street in Pinson. This year’s show, “Simply the Best,” will be a musical revue including some of the best songs from Rodgers and Hammerstein’s most famous musicals. All tickets are $10. For more information, contact the theater at 205655-3902 or visit www. actatheater.com. Contact Gary Lloyd at news@trussvilletribune. com and follow him on Twitter @GaryALloyd. ACTA Theater annual fundraiser this weekend by Gary Lloyd Editor ACTA Theater in Trussville will present its annual fundraiser May 1617 at 7 p.m. and May 18 at 2:30 p.m. submitted photo The Paine Primary School Math Team For The Tribune Paine Primary School’s Math Team consists of 11 first- and second-graders who meet weekly with Donna Brumlow, the math coach. The team works together as they solve word prob- lems, work with Jennifer Scott in her art room to create mathematical art designs, learn about famous mathematicians and their impact, or work with Charlene Hallman in her computer lab to learn how to write basic programs on the computer. Members of the team are Ren Peterson, Miller McLeod, Ava Nafziger, Tyler Land, Sara Marie Buttram, Savannah Day, Trace Barlock, Drennan Jones, John Conner Farris, Elly Morris and Katherine Andreae. Contact Gary Lloyd at news@trussvilletribune. com and follow him on Twitter @GaryALloyd. The Next Health Talk is Scheduled for May 22nd Tired of what you see when you look in the mirror? All that dieting hype? Imagine your life without belly fat! Dr. Gross and Dr. Gray will tell you about the latest scientific breakthroughs and methods that help you permanently and safely remove unwanted belly fat while quickly reclaiming your health, your youth, and your life! I know and i thought we were going to get pictures made before now, we should be able to get some pics made this weekend, we are going to a seminar in san antonio and they usually have a green screen to shoot pics for ads. Lets do the old picture of us, and mention our facebook page, and change our number to 205-8683741, and there is gonna be another ~Learn how Hormone Imbalances —man or health talk on the 22nd, woman— can distort your midsection into a large maybe say something belly and prevent weight loss even with dieting and exercise. about this being our ~Learn how Hormone Imbalances can affect your before pics, sleepcome cycles, see carbohydrate cravings, and fat burning. our after? ~Learn why “Counting Calories” doesn’t work for belly fat. ~Learn the Biggest Mistake that people make with Exercise that prevents weight loss. ~LEARN WHAT REALLY WORKS for permanent loss of belly fat and bulges. Safely. Healthfully! DeShan S. Gross, DC CHIROPRACTIC PHYSICIAN Jody S. Gray, DC, DAAPM CHIROPRACTIC PHYSICIAN Take a look at Dr. Gross and Dr. Gray’s ‘BEFORE’ picture. Be sure to attend the May 22nd HEALTH TALK so that you can see them ‘AFTER’ in person. Call to make your reservation!
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