Centreville PD searching for pervert

COMMUNITY ALERT

"Be on the lookout for a tall, slim white male driving white car with damage to front bumper"

The Centreville Police Department are currently looking for a man who exposed himself to 2 young girls and an adult female.  The suspect is described as a tall and slim caucasian.  He reportedly drives a white car with damage to the front bumper.
On Friday, August 24 three reports came in which suggested the suspect exposed himself to female victims.  The first reported incident occurred around noon in Moundville.  The victim in the first reported incident was a school age girl.  The second incident occurred on Splawn Drive in Centreville.  In that incident the victim got off of the school bus and was walking home when the suspect drove beside her and motioned for her to look inside.  The victim suggests the driver was naked.
The suspect then moved on to Montevallo Rd. where he exposed himself in a driveway to a 30-something year old woman "of short and petite stature," according to police.  Authorities believe that the suspect may have believe the woman to be a school child as well due to her size.
Centreville PD has placed a "BOLO" across the state with emphasis to counties adjacent to Bibb and Hale.  This law enforcement acronym means "be on the lookout" and is an all points bulletin expressing to authorities any details of the alleged suspect.
Centreville Police Chief Mike Nichols stated that his department is working closely with Moundville Police and other law enforcement to run the suspect down.  He is encouraging anyone with any other information to contact Centreville Police Department at (205) 926-5052.

BMC Mammogram

New Mammogram Technology at Bibb Medical Center

Women who undergo routine mammograms at Bibb Medical Center now have the latest diagnostic technology available to them, digital mammography.   By offering women the latest technology in mammography, the facility hopes to increase the number of area women who follow recommendations for regular screening  Digital Mammography is different from conventional mammography in how the image is acquired and viewed.  Bibb Medical Center acquired this new diagnostic equipment in February of this year and received their accreditation in June of 2012.    Early detection of breast cancer with screening mammography means that treatment can be started earlier in the course of the disease, possibly before it has spread.   Results from randomized clinical trials and other studies show that screening mammography can help reduce the number of deaths from breast cancer among women ages 40 to 74.   The National Cancer Institute recommends that women age 40 or older should have screening mammograms every 1 to 2 years.  It is the hope of Bibb Medical Center that our community will take advantage of these services and in so doing we can reduce the number of cancer diagnosis that to often affect our community. 

A Snail returns from death

Oh Oblong Snail, where hast thou been?

By Daniel L. Bamberg

Daniel@Centrevillepress.com

In 2000 the Oblong Rock Snail was declared extinct.  Typical to a snail, it took its time to argue the point.  The snail has been alive and well and thriving between Bibb and Shelby Counties.

Nathan Weland, a University of Alabama graduate student recently discovered the species following an investigation, which began with a kayak trip.

“To be able to find a species that was thought to be extinct is always encouraging, especially considering biodiversity and conservation stories are not typically positive these days,” said Weland. 

His discovery has created a buzz in conservationist and scientific communities.  The story was recently featured in PLOS ONE, a notable scientific journal. 

The snails were last collected more than three-quarters of a century ago.  With so much pollution from coal mining and steel manufacturing along the Cahaba, once the snails became scarcer, the thought was they had vanished completely.

Whelan had a hunch and convinced friends to take a kayak trip down the Cahaba River seeking out an area where the species had been most prevalent.  According to Whelan they found the snail quickly into the trip.  Upon collecting what they believed was the Oblong Rock Snail they had to match the critter with a specimen captured in 1881, which was stored at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History.  Of all things, the snail was match of dental records, sort of.  The snail’s teeth, called radulas are specific to the species and are used to scrape algae off of river rock for food.  The teeth were a match.

Whelen does not know for sure how many of the Rock Snails are around, but suggested that there is an abundance of them in the location of the Cahaba, which falls between Bibb and Shelby counties.  This is a smaller but centralized area from which the species once thrived along a 50 plus mile stretch between Helena and Centreville. 

The species was once, and is now again unique to the Cahaba River basin.  The Cahaba River is one of the most biologically diverse aquatic areas in the United States according to the Nature Conservancy.  With 121 different species of fish, 38 species of mussels, and 32 species of snails, and the wondrously rare Cahaba Lilly to boot, scientists and conservationists alike study the river regularly.  12 of these species are listed as either threatened or endangered.

The Bibb / Shelby County area of the river is one of the most untouched areas, and held in high regard among those with a professional appreciation for such biodiversity.

Whelen believes that the Clean Water Act has helped steer the species back.  Though the news has created some excitement, the species is still endangered.  This is why there are efforts to study how the snail reproduces in hopes of getting the species off the endangered list.  

(Photo) The once declared extinct Oblong Rock Snail is back from the dead.  Discovered by University of Alabama graduate student, Nathan Weland, the snail has been thriving in a colony located around the Bibb and Shelby County line along the Cahaba River.

Airport Authority Questioned

Airport Authority accosted by business owner in meeting

By Daniel L. Bamberg

Daniel@Centrevillepress.com

Local business owner Pam Freeman appeared before the Bibb County Airport Authority to address concerns regarding some recent activity. 

Freeman raised questions about a recent bid item. Tim Dehart came to open bid meeting representing Boneyard Acquisitions.  The local female owned company drastically under bid its two competitors and was the only to stay under the maximum budget.  Authority Chairman, Walt Williams made a motion to accept Boneyard’s bid.  There was no second and the vote died.  Dehart withdrew his bid.  

The bid has yet to be awarded to anyone.

Mrs. Freeman stated that she believed the Airport denied the bid to Boneyard for one of two potential reasons.  In her statements she suggested that the Authority may have denied a second due to the fact that Boneyard is a female owned business.  The company is owned and operated by Tanette Aeyers.  The other possibility given by Freeman is that the Authority failed to second the bid because Tim Dehart is a convicted felon, and the man who made national headlines after being caught living in Bibb County for nearly 5 years under the false name of Chris Sullivan, in an attempt to flee from legal consequences he had accumulated in Arkansas.  Dehart returned to the Bibb County community recently.

“He has served his time and it is time to forgive and move on,” said Freeman.  “He can vote and own a gun just like everyone of us.  Either way the Authority seems to be offering discrimination to bidders.”

Mr. Williams and the rest of the Authority deny that there is any discrimination.

Mrs. Freeman then stated that John Herron was never an official member based upon the group’s by laws.  She quoted the by laws.  The Authority then publicly acknowledged that based on their by-laws Herron was not an official member.  Despite this claim Herron continued to vote and speak freely throughout the meeting.  At the end of the meeting the Authority attempted to vote him in officially.  Freeman pointed out that in order to vote Herron in, four members had to be present, and excluding Herron only 3 were in attendance.  Herron was not “officially” voted in?  His status is uncertain.

Cam Ward speaks to ABA

Senator Ward addresses Alabama Bar Association

Alabama State Senator Cam Ward spoke to The Alabama Bar Association’s Annual Meeting in Destin on Monday, July 23.  The Senator updated them on the progress and changes of The Alabama Law Institute during his first year as President. He and the Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman previously spoke to the Uniform Law Conference in Nashville and The Alabama Association for Justice annual meeting regarding the issues facing Alabama’s legal system.

“It is an honor to serve as president of The Alabama Law Institute,” Ward said. “Former Alabama Supreme Court Justice and United States Senator Howell Heflin was the first president, and I only hope I can live up to such a task. I believe we have made some steps to putting ALI on track to continue its mission into the 21^st Century.”

Ward continued, “there is a lot of good work being done in our courts, but we face one of the greatest threats to our state Judiciary in a generation. The shortfall in the State General Fund Budget threatens to cripple the court system in this state. A further reduction in funding will deny many people in this state their constitutional right to justice as well as adequate due process of law. As attorneys we have a moral obligation to fight for adequate access to justice.”

Ward also highlighted several changes in the operation of ALI, including a presence in the Alabama Statehouse, which will better allow the Institute to provide legal analysis and counsel to state lawmakers. It will also save the state thousands of dollars a year. They maintain a presence at The University of Alabama, where a more than 40-year partnership has helped accomplish its core purpose of systematic code revision.

The Bar Association was also told of several bills passed during the 2012 Regular Session of the Alabama Legislature which were pushed by ALI, including bills detailing the application of foreign laws, conforming to national IRS standards, and the merger of corporations. All of these laws make Alabama law clearer, and more uniform with national standards, lessening the legal burden on businesses, and helping to get Alabamians back to work.

“We worked hard to make sure the institute sponsored smart and honest laws that streamlined The Alabama Code,” Ward said. “One of my goals as president is providing Alabama’s citizens with the best legal protections we can, while lessening the burden on business – allowing our citizens to get back to work.”

The Alabama Law Institute has also instituted a legal intern program, providing committees with legal analysts from The University of Alabama Law School, Cumberland Law School at Samford University and Jones Law School at Faulkner University, giving senior level law students needed experience while keeping the Legislature from having to hire yet more employees.

ALI staff is also working revisions to the Alabama Probate Judges’ Handbook and the Alabama County Commissioners’ Handbook, and conducting education seminars for officials and lawyers throughout the state to ensure the legislation passed this session is implemented effectively and efficiently.

“I’m so proud of our staff, and what we have been able to do to modernize the Alabama Law Institute’s purpose, and I look forward to continuing my role as a leader on legal issues for our state,” Ward said.

The Alabama Law Institute was created in 1967 and began operations in 1969, with a state purpose to clarify and simplify the laws of Alabama, to revise laws that are out-of-date and to fill in gaps in the law where there exists legal confusion. The membership of the Alabama Law Institute is limited to a maximum of 150 members of the Alabama State Bar Association who are elected for fixed terms, the judges of the Alabama Supreme Court, courts of appeals, and circuit courts, federal judges domiciled in Alabama, full-time law faculty members of Cumberland Law School and the University of Alabama School of Law, all members of the Institute Council and all lawyer members of the Legislature, who are licensed to practice in Alabama. The governing body of the Institute is the Institute Council composed of six practicing attorneys from each congressional district as well as representatives from the appellate courts, Attorney General's office, Alabama State Bar Association, law schools, Legislature, and the Governor's office.

Road Closing

Lightsey Road closed temporarily

The Talladega National Forest, Oakmulgee Ranger District, have temporarily closed Forest Service Road 412 (Lightsey Road) to complete a culvert replacement.

A section of FSR 412 will be closed from Vick Hunter Camp to the intersection of Roy Martin Road.  The road was closed on Monday, August 13, 2012 and could remain closed for up to two weeks, depending on how quickly the work progresses. 

Visitors planning to use Vick Shooting Range can access the range using Lightsey Road from U.S. Highway 82.  The Oakmulgee District stated they appreciate the community’s patience as they improve the roads.  To check the status of the road closure, visit www.fs.usda.gov/alabama  and click “Know Before You Go” link on the right side of the page or call the Talladega National Forest, Oakmulgee District Office (205) 926-9765 ext. 202.

Woodstock Robbery

Late night Woodstock robbery caught on surveillance, suspect turns himself in

By Daniel L. Bamberg

Daniel@Centrevillepress.com

According to Woodstock Police Chief Len Price an Exxon station just off Highway 1-59 in Woodstock may not have been 19-year-old Devon Minter’s first choice of location to commit a recent armed robbery.  On the evening of Monday, July 30, just before entering the store he would eventually rob, the suspect stopped at a nearby Citgo but left after a man outside of the store explained that it was closed. At approximately 10:30 p.m. the suspect reportedly entered the Exxon station, asked for two cigars, and then pressed a gun against the clerk’s head and demanded money from the register. 

In a bold move the clerk attempted to take the gun from the suspect.  The clerk’s efforts failed to stop the crime.  The suspect snatched away and fled to the door but returned immediately thereafter still pointing the gun.  At this point the clerk backed away as the suspect took an undisclosed amount of money from the register.  The suspect then fled the scene. 

“I think he just scoped the area in search of open stores with few late night customers,” said Chief Price.  “He went to the other store and then found the Exxon.  I think he was just looking for any place to rob,”

The entire incident was caught on video surveillance and was display on local news stations in the media coverage area.  The unmasked suspect could be clearly seen and was likely what led to his own efforts to turn himself in an hour after prime time news broadcasting. 

Minter’s mother drove him to a Tuscaloosa County Sheriff’s substation where he was taken into and charged with 1^st degree robbery and 3^rd degree theft of property.  He is currently being held at Tuscaloosa County Jail on $10,500 bond. 

While many regard the clerk’s reactions as heroic and gutsy, Chief Price explains that fighting back is a very dangerous way to react during a robbery. 

Price thanked Tuscaloosa County deputies and his own officers for their efforts.

The photo is alleged to be that of the man caught on video surveillance committing armed robbery at an Exxon gas station in Woodstock.  After the full video of the incident made local news stations, the suspect turned himself in. 

39 acres donated to Centreville for Park

 Mayor Bamberg announces unofficial land grant for city park

 

By Daniel L. Bamberg

Daniel@Centrevillepress.com

An agreement has been reached between a private landowner and Centreville officials regarding 39 acres of property.  The land is located just off of the intersection of Hwy. 82 and 219.

Centreville natives Patricia Wheeler Smitherman and the late Alec Wheeler provided the land grant.  Alec Weaver died in the autumn of 2010 and his portion of the property is part of his estate.  The estate was opened in April and though Patricia has signed a letter of intent, the property won’t be officially granted until October.

The large area of land is located just north of Rocko Funeral Home off of 219 and adjoins the back end of Green Tree Estates.  Another portion of the land faces highway 82.

City officials announced the owner of the property granted the land to the City for the purpose of building a public park.  The city plans on initially using the property to construct a five-field baseball complex for the youth.  Once constructed the baseball complex will be leased to a non-profit organization, Cahaba Sports in order to operate in accordance with Dixie Youth. 

The city also suggested that future plans beyond the complex would be to include shaded natural walking trails and a playground, and pavilions.  Once these plans are implemented the idea is that the park would be open and operated year round. The city wants the park’s future access to enter off of 219.

You may remember just before the passing of local businessman Cecil Crews, Centreville officials agreed to lease Cahaba River Historic Park.  In the fall of 2010 the benefactors of Crews’ estate couldn’t reach and agreement with the city regarding future operations of the park.  Therefore the lease was not renewed.  Thus, Centreville was rendered a city without a park.

City Attorney Mike Hobson is working with the current landowners to finalize the transaction.  He is also working with Cahaba Sports to finalize the agreement for operating the baseball complex.

“This is an exciting moment,” said Centreville Mayor Tom Bamberg.  “When we lost the Cahaba River Park last year it was a pretty big blow for us (Centreville).  We had a lot of plans for the park, but things don’t always go the way we want them to.  The Lord has his own way of working things out, and this may be his way of answering one of our prayers.”

Alec Wheeler and Patty Wheeler Smitherman were raised in Centreville and graduated from Bibb County High School.  Their mother worked for many years as a teacher in the Bibb County School system.  Locals knew the land donated as the “Stewart Place.”

Photo: The blue lines mark the borders of a 39-acre property that has been donated to the City of Centreville for a new park.  The donors are the late Stewart Alexander Wheeler and Patricia Wheeler Smitherman.  The land has been offered for the City of Centreville to build a city park.  Centreville has future plans for a baseball complex, shaded nature trails, playgrounds, and pavilions.  City Attorney Mike Hobson is currently working to finalize the transaction, which will not be released until October.

Centreville Press Vault: BCJHS retires Trent Morton's number

As originally printed in the Centreville Press October 24, 2007

Bibb County Junior High retires athletic number of Trent Morton in ceremony

By Mike Oakley

Trent Morton was a vibrant 12-year-old, about to enter into his teen years when a tragic accident on April 1, 2007, took his life.

He was more active than most kids, probably due to the influence of his father Terry, a junior high coach, and older brother Taylor, who was active in just about every sport available and was a source of pride for mom Tammy, and little brother T.J.

Trent was active in baseball, football and basketball and loved them all equally. He was enamored with LSU football and loved to tease his friends when LSU became a football powerhouse and started beating their favorite college teams. In fact, one of his favorite memories was going to the 2006 LSU vs. Alabama game in Baton Rouge, LA., with his father.

That tragic weekend also saw the opening day of Dixie Youth Little League. Trent was in his last year and quickly established himself as one of the premier players in the league. He won the first game he pitched and, in two games, went 5-for-5, batting .1000. He was definitely coming into his own.

In athletics, he chose the number 45 because Michael Jordan had once worn it and Trent dearly loved his Air Jordan basketball shoes, almost as much as he loved spending time with his life long friend Kendal Hubbard.

Trent’s death created a huge loss in the community. His principal at the time, Duane McGee said,” What struck me was how many of the kids were affected by his passing. Trent played on just about all the youth sports teams and made so many friends through sports, but even the kids who weren’t into sports thought of themselves as his friend. That is a high compliment among kids that age.”

Friend Kyle Johnston said, “I loved his attitude. He was always talking about sports and always smiling and cracking jokes.” Brooks Horsley said, “I loved his sense of humor. He was always supporting people and was always a good sport.” Patrick Kirby said, “He definitely had a Christian sportsmanship attitude. Even when a ref would make a call against our team, Trent would smile and say something funny.” Brady Ingram said, “Trent was always smiling, no matter what.” Knavish Huckleberry said, “He was always wanting to play sports or play video games and loved to eat cheese.” Jalen Goree said, “Trent was always there when you needed someone. He loved LSU and loved laughing and playing jokes.”

His big brother Taylor said, “Trent was an awesome brother. He had started working out with me and was really becoming an athlete. We had small arguments like brothers do, but we really got along. I think about him every day.” Former Little League coach Tony Kyzer said, “Trent was a great kid, about to be a great athlete, and a source of inspiration. He was a coach’s dream and I am a better person for having coached him. He taught me way more than I taught him.” Former teacher Linda Moore, who is also the mother of Trent’s good friend, Justin, said, “Trent was never anything but himself. Justin seriously though of Trent as his little brother. Justin was teaching him some basketball skills. They were always playing jokes on each other and had funny nicknames for each other.”

During a recent football pep rally current Principal Ernie Cutts surprised everyone by taking center stage and making an announcement concerning Trent Morton. “I have had so many youngsters come to me asking me to do something to commemorate Trent’s memory that we decided to officially retire the number 45 from Bibb County Junior High Football, Basketball and Baseball. Judging from the comments I have received over the past months and the actions of Trent, there is no one who could take his place.” Coach Charles Stacy had the Junior High Football team come up to the podium as he read the Proclamation:

Whereas, the provisions of Bibb County Junior High’s promotion and retention would have been in order for promotion to the 8^th grade for the late Trent McDaniel Morton.

Whereas, the late Trent McDaniel Morton was active in all extracurricular activities to include: Football, Basketball and Baseball. The said individual also held high Academic Standings. He was a member of the National Junior Honor Society.

Therefore, we, the faculty, staff, and student body of Bibb County Junior High School take proud honor in recognizing such a wonderful student. Today, on October 12, 2007, we will retire the forever remembered jersey number of Trent McDaniel Morton, #45.

The Proclamation was signed and dated by Principal Ernie J. Cutts and Assistant Principal Alan G. Ray.

Trent’s father, Terry composed a statement from the family regarding the honor bestowed upon Trent: “It was a great honor by the Junior High faculty and student body to pay respects to our middle son, Trent, in retiring his jersey number. There has been a tremendous outpouring of care and support from the community following Trent’s passing. We could never repay thanks for all who have been at our family’s side during this loss and sadness in our lives. We truly believe God has a plan for our lives even though we do not always understand His ways. We are just taking Him by faith day by day. In helping us with our healing process we truly believe it has also been a healing process for Trent’s classmates at school. If Trent could tell you now, from Heaven, he would tell you how much he loves you and will always welcome us home one day to our eternal and permanent home in Heaven. May number 45 always live within out hearts.” 

Photo: Terry Morton proudly holds up the retired jersey of his son Trent Morton.  Trent was killed in Spring of 2007 in a four wheeler accident.  

Recall a story that hasn't been featured on Bibblogger?  Want to read it again, share it with your friends and family from across the state, country, and world?  Email your request to Daniel@Centrevillepress.com.  Bibblogger does not share obituaries, legals, or advertisements only news stories, features, and opinion columns.  

This week's Centreville Press...IS ON FIRE!

Don't miss out on what will likely be the most talked about edition of the Centreville Press in a long time.  If you haven't already heard the buzz, this week's Centreville Press is on fire and loaded!


News Headlines
Albert Turner Jr. in Brent Municipal Court
Centreville Mayor Bamberg announces candidacy
Mike Weaver announces candidacy for Centreville mayor
Bobby Parks announces candidacy for West Blocton Mayor
3 Bibb Schools do not make AYP
Extinct Oblong Rock Snail discovered thriving in Bibb County
Bibb County Deputy crashes squad car into building
Airport Authority chastised by local business owner
BMC Announces New Mammogram 
The Centreville Press racks up awards at Annual Ceremony

The results of the Bibb's Best People's Choice Awards

OPINION
Bob Tribble outlines why he thinks Obama is responsible for high gas prices
Jim Oakley talks Olympics, Centreville Park, the weather, and snails
Matt Hartzell talks cudweed
Daniel Bamberg rips Perry County Commissioner 
Steve Austin talks Eggshells and Jesus
Tim Bonds talks good deeds, faith, and obedience

And much, much more!

Available Wednesday, August 15 at the Centreville Press Office and in the box wherever the Centreville Press is sold!  GET IT NOW BEFORE IT BURNS UP!

Under the Hat, faith and heroes

Batman, Superman and Faith

Much like the Beatles or Rolling Stones argument, the McDonal's or Burger King argument, and the Pepsi or Coca-Cola argument, comic book fans have an age old conversation piece that never dies.  In the D.C. Universe you can like Superman and Batman, but you gotta choose one to be the ultimate representative of the  American super hero.
There are many similarities between the two but the differences are the reason an argument stands.  Bruce Wayne (Batman) is motivated by the death of his parents.  Clark Kent (Kal-El / Superman)  is motivated by the death of his home planet.  Superman is powered by the earth's sun.  Batman is empowered by the cover of shadows.  They both believe in justice and neither believe in killing, but each handles these topics in their own way.  Superman won't kill simply because it is too easy for a man with near-Godlike powers to smite his enemies completely.  Batman won't kill because the very thing he is rebelling against as a hero is murder.
Superman motivates us, helps us contemplate betterment because he champions the good things about humanity.  Batman helps us contemplate how easily we can give into darkness because he mocks and chastises our darker halves.
Although Batman and Superman are both enjoyed by men and women of different cultures and religions including those who denounce culture and religion, they cannot be refused their right as fictional personifications of faith.  Batman and Superman have both been written and drawn by Atheists, Agnostics, Christians, those of the Jewish faith, and other faiths.  Yet no matter how these characters are taken and no matter who is taking them to wherever they go, neither character can escape their very profound commentary on spiritual humanity.
A perfect example of this is in how the D.C. Universe dealt with the end of both Batman and Superman.
There is no single comic book as important or well known, nor as massively printed as Superman #75, also known as "The Death of Superman."  D.C. sent a character, aptly named Doomsday to kill Superman and crush the will of Metropolis.  Not long after Bane broke Batman's back crippling the hope of Gotham City.  In those very different approaches to ridding the world of these characters (temporarily) the contrast of how these characters tackle faith is clearly revealed.
Why kill Superman and merely break Batman's back?  This in of itself is a precise metaphor.
Superman has been compared through the years as a Christ-like figure.  He is the last Son of Krypton who comes to earth to champion justice and to save its people all the while powered by yellow sun, which in natural terms provides our planet with life itself.  The sun is a beacon or light, as is Superman.  To kill a God is to bring a populace to its knees.  This is what happened when Superman died.  Many came to take his place, each individual was corrupt in his own way.  Possessing near God-like powers in the hands of humanity is corruptible.  Remember absolute power corrupts absolutely.  In Superman's absence the world sought a replacement.  This again, an example of how humanity handles faith.  In our darkest and most hopeless hours many of us turn to God.  On the other hand, so many will look for replacements if God's time isn't in sync with our watches.
Batman much like Superman is also a beacon of light.  Batman's light is however surrounded by and dwelling within the darkness.  In comparison to the Christian faith Batman is much like what only our minds can imagine was Christ's time in the abyss.  In this moment Christ is forsaken, and in death abandoned by his father.  This is the story of Bruce Wayne and comparisons of Gotham and Hell seem quite appropriate.
Batman's back was broken to break the will of the people.  This left someone to take his place, Batman wasn't so much martyred as his intention that anyone could carry the symbol for good, was fulfilled.  The people of Gotham were forced to rise above their weaknesses and stand for the good that Batman represented.
In turn Superman's death and Batman's handicap became motivators for people to live up to the good these heroes represented.
It isn't in all fiction that faith is represented whether accidentally or intentionally but when it occurs one is remiss to not notice.  D.C. author Geoff Johns, who is perhaps one of the most prolific comic writers of the modern age, was questioned about a few panels to tackle the faith of heroes in what I feel is one of his lesser works, "Infinite Crisis."  He suggested that not only was faith an important and essential tool to humanity's history and culture but that even heroes needed faith, because at times there was no other answer.
I won't take senseless time attempting to dissect Johns' comments.  What I will suggest is that if heroes can have faith, if something as secular as the comic book industry can acknowledge faith, what would we be without it?  If we can be inspired by fictional characters such as Superman and Batman, and if indeed their efforts reflect the better angels of our nature, shouldn't we all give faith in something above ourselves a chance?

Under the Hat is an opinion column exclusive to Bibblogger.  It is not to be regarded as a news report.  The opinions therein are the thoughts and opinions of its author Daniel L. Bamberg and do not necessarily reflect those of the Centreville Press or it's affiliates.  

The All-New, All-Slick, All-Color Sports Special

Pigskin Preview goes full color and slick

The Centreville Press will launch an all new-all slick-all color Football Preview supplement on August 29.
This edition will be a keep-sake collector's item which won't only cover the BCHS Choctaws and WBHS Tigers football teams in depth but will also focus on local footballers who have gone on to the next level of the sport.
Of course we will also be covering the bands, the cheerleaders, and the fans.  It will be an action packed issue promising something for everyone who dreams yearlong for opening kickoff.
We will also be covering the little ones and focusing on unique football stories for your hometown teams.  Also...a Bibb County citizen chosen NCAA top 25.  Don't miss this issue, and advertisers don't miss your opportunity to be a part of one of the most exciting editions we've printed in years.  This will something our readers can cherish and appreciate.
Better news, better sports, a better Centreville Press. 

For advertisement call

(205)-926-9769

This Week's Centreville Press

Who is reading your hometown newspaper?  Do you know the man in the photo to the right?

What to look for in this week's edition of the Centreville Press


Orientation schedules for all Bibb County Schools
City of Brent makes big announcement
Mayoral candidate Mike Weaver's paid letter advertisement
Woodstock Robber turns himself in 1 hour after news story airs
Commissioners appoint new Deputy Coroner
Firefighters get more funding
Per-ton dumping costs increase
Tragic accident in rural Perry claims local child
Sen. Ward addresses Alabama Bar Association
Sen. Ward talks energy jobs growth in Alabama

Opinions...
Bob Tribble calls for Chicken eatings
Jim Oakley talks grave of unknown, texting and driving, and Michael Jackson
Daniel Bamberg recalls a meeting with a nameless stranger

AND MUCH MORE!

Available at the Centreville Press office and wherever the paper is sold on Wednesday, August 8.

Will Z-Man become Vandy’s first H-Man?

By Daniel L. Bamberg

Daniel@Centrevillepress.com

While many suits and ties are running for truth compromised for lies, Bibb County native Zac Stacy will be running for Heisman.  Well, sort of.

Zac who never placates publicly about individual achievement has been mentioned in many Scouting magazines and websites as a Heisman trophy candidate.  Zac states he will be running for Vanderbilt football, but Vanderbilt University alumni and students are proudly boasting him as their first Heisman candidate since quarterback Jay Cutler.  If Zac were to win the award he would be the first in Vanderbilt University history.

Last year “Z-man” rushed for 1,193 yards and scored 14 touchdowns.  This season he is expected to eclipse these numbers and many feel he is destined to break some Vanderbilt records.

Though many are hoping for a Z-Man Heisman pose, it won’t be an easy climb.  Zac enters into the watch as many experts’ dark horse.  According to these experts Z-Man doesn’t only need to put up huge accumulative numbers but must make the most out of key games.  One example will be Vandy’s game against South Carolina, which will be a featured broadcast on ESPN’s flagship station.  It may be the only serious publicity the always-underdogged SEC team gets during the season, unless their season is above predetermined expectations. 

It could be a long shot, but Stacy wouldn’t be the first dark horse to win the coveted “best of the best” trophy.  Last season Robert Griffin III was awarded after having impressive games in the national spotlight including leading his team, the typical Big 12 underdog Baylor in victories over Oklahoma and Texas. Before that Cameron Newton led the off the radar Auburn Tigers to an undefeated season and their first ever undisputed national championship.

It is likely Bibb County football fans eyes will be heavily focused on Nashville, as will the Commodores faithful as the early push for Z-man to become H-man begins.

(Photo) Vanderbilt running back, Zac Stacy speaks at SEC “Media Days.” 

BOE, teaching changes

Board of Education makes teaching changes

By Daniel L. Bamberg

Daniel@Centrevillepress.com

During the meetings held by the Bibb County Board of Education in July several personnel changes were made.  There were new faces hired as well as returning faces made official.  The Board met on July 10 and July 24 and made the following decisions in the area of education:

Jay Alston was approved and employed as Bibb County High School’s Principal.  Jason Leach will be the Assistant Principal at Brent Elementary School.

Eric Stough has been employed as a Chemistry and General Science Teacher at Bibb County High School.  David Norwood will be the Special Education Teacher at BCHS.

Kellyn Hope Sanders has been approved to become a Teacher at Brent Elementary School.  Jenny Bright has been approved to become a one-year temporary teacher at Brent Elementary School. 

Jennifer Frederick has been approved to be a Pre K and Special Education Teacher at Woodstock Elementary.  Logan Greene has been b approved to become a History Teacher at West Blocton High School. 

Lisa Blake has been employed as an Alternative School Para Professional Aide.

Resignations of Dr. Billy Williams as Science Teacher for BCHS and Bethany Elam as Woodstock Elementary teacher were also approved.

The Board also approved the hiring of 7 Grad Exam tutors/workers for the system and  2 substitute teachers for Brent Elementary.

BOE athletic changes

Board of Education makes athletic personnel changes

By Daniel L. Bamberg

Daniel@Centrevillepress.com

The Bibb County Board of Education recently made several personnel changes in the area of athletics during their regularly scheduled meetings of July 10 and July 24.

Bibb County High School’s new head football coach, Mike McCombs was officially announced at the July, 10 Board Meeting.  Bibb County High School will also be getting a new head varsity basketball coach following the resignation of Terry Morton from the position.  Two-time state championship winning basketball coach, Russ Wallace was approved and officially welcomed to lead the BCHS hoops team.  Wallace will also be the new BCHS Physical Education teacher as well as an Assistant Football Coach.

Former state championship winning BCHS basketball coach, Charles McCaleb will stay on as BCHS Athletic Director during the 2012 - 2013 high school athletics season.

Bibb County High School will also have a new face for the band.  Dwight Caddell was hired to officially become the new bandleader at BCHS.

Jan Lowery who is already the Head Softball Coach at BCHS has also been approved to be the Head Coach for the BCHS Girl’s Volleyball team. Jennifer Tate will be a volunteer Volleyball coach at BCHS.

Shelly Smitherman has been hired as Assistant Volleyball Coach and Assistant Girls Basketball Coach at West Blocton High School.  David Steele has been approved as the Head Softball Coach at WBHS.  Logan Greene will be the new Assistant Softball Coach at WBHS.

The Board also accepted the coach resignation of Eric Hiott as Assistant Softball Coach for WBHS.  

BCHS gets new b-ball coach

BCHS hires two-time state championship basketball coach

By Daniel L. Bamberg

Daniel@Centrevillepress.com

Bibb County High School has a new head basketball coach.  Two-time state championship winning coach (Pickens County High School), Russ Wallace will be suited up in purple in gold for the 2012-2013 season.

Wallace will also be the linebacker’s coach for the BCHS football team, coaching alongside new head football coach, Mike McCombs.  He is a graduate of Tuscaloosa County High School and played under their legendary coach Bobby Jones.

Wallace’s Pickens County teams were 292-90 in 14 seasons.  He left Pickens County for Buckhorn but decided to return to his West Alabama roots by taking the open BCHS job. 

“I feel like I’m back home, being just 30 miles from where I grew up,” said Wallace in an interview with another media source.  “The situation at Buckhorn didn’t fit me.  So when the opportunity to coach Bibb County came open, I jumped on it.”

Bibb County High School is a two-time state championship basketball program.  It’s first title came in 1970.  In 1989 current BCHS Athletic Director, Charles McCaleb led the Choctaws to their second title. 

Wallace has already coached a BCHS team at camp at the University of Alabama in July.  The team went 7-2 with a close loss to the camp’s championship team.  He stated that he wants to get the school back to winning championships and believes with the athletic ability and intensity of the kids, he can do just that.

(Pboto) Bibb County High School has landed a two-time state championship basketball coach (Pickens County) in Russ Wallace.  The coach who left Pickens County for a bigger opportunity at Buckhorn recently returned to his west Alabama roots to coach at BCHS.  Wallace grew up in Tuscaloosa County where he played against the BCHS 1989 state championship team against Charles McCaleb’s squad.  Now he will coach under McCaleb, the BCHS Athletic Director.

Under the Hat: Filleting a Chicken Movement

The Million Chicken Sandwich March

Over the past few days thousands of people gathered around the nearest Chik-Fil-A with money in hand to support a multi-million dollar franchise in the name of something.  Some did it in the name of freedom of speech.  Some did it in the name of Christianity.  Others did it to show their political stance regarding homosexual marriage.  On the other hand hundreds if not thousands are in the midst of a boycott of Chik-Fil-A.  The reason being the company’s president Dan Cathy doesn’t believe in homosexual marriage.

He expressed his opposition to the widely debated topic in an interview, answering a direct question.  The reaction of several celebrities including Roseanne Barr who hasn’t been a celebrity since H.W. Bush was in office, were not nice.

Many persons in the public eye who believe it is their responsibility to direct a populace, called for a boycott of the fast food franchise.  The result hasn’t been what many expected.  Instead of crippling sales, Chik-Fil-A is on its way to record numbers.  Is this a victory for freedom of speech?  Perhaps, the only problem seems to be that the most vocal folks supporting the franchise aren’t doing it for freedom of speech.  They are doing it as an act of pushing the anti-gay marriage statement and those who place their own feet in front of Christ’s yet call themselves Christians are stating their patronage at Chik-Fil-A was done in the name of Christ?

Apparently at some point over the past few weeks Jesus came to these people and commanded their hard earned dollars to be turned over to a company, which sells over priced bland chicken sandwiches.  A thin piece of lightly seasoned chicken on a cheap bun with three pickle slices for around four bucks seems a small price to pay for heavenly righteousness.  Many are citing the Chik-Fil-A doctrine of not being opened on Sundays to honor the Sabbath.  The last time I was at Chik-Fil-A was a Saturday, the Sabbath, and they were open.  I think it is a reflection of our lack of faith that we as Christians choose the most boring day of the week to lend to Christ while the most exciting day, the one with the highest amount of commerce is our fun day.  Don’t get me wrong I am not a Seven Day Adventist.  I do not believe we are going to hell for changing the day of rest or worship.  It is simply ironic that some people suggesting we should do all things in Christ are those who suggest this wouldn’t be in church during an Auburn or Alabama game if the church decided to worship on the Day of Mitzvah.  Yet they would go out of their way to eat a sandwich in the name of God, without God having a say so in it.  None of these folks feasting on chicken sandwiches are asking the question that so many wear like a badge, “What would Jesus do?” 

Now in truth I cannot say for sure what Jesus would do.  I just don’t believe in my heart, soul, or God given functioning brain that he would be standing in line at a fast food restaurant for a chicken sandwich.  Christ had several key opportunities to become a part of the political machine during His time on earth.  He never partook.

Christ was not and is not a politician.  Instead Christ explained that we should render under Caesar that which is Caesar’s.  Politics belong to the Caesars of the world.  There really isn’t much debating this among the faithful.  Yet constantly Christians try to insert Christ into political conversations. 

Is homosexuality a sin?  According to my Bible, which I believe in literally, it is a sin.  Is it a high sin?  So is coveting, and if you’ve been budgeting yourself around something you cannot afford that you want really bad, should you be boycotted?  According to my Bible, which I believe in literally the only high sin, is refusing Christ.  Yet the Bible does strictly warn us about taking the Lord’s name in vain. 

So many lose sight of what that actually means.  Dropping a curse word around the name of God (any name of our God) can be interpreted as taking His name in vain.  Those of Jewish and Messianic-Jewish faith won’t even write out the name “God” for fear that it would be taking his name in vain.  They write it, G-d. 

Yet more than anything in based upon my personal relationship with Christ and my personal study, taking the Lord’s name in vain seems to be more about doing something in His name which isn’t His.

I don’t believe Christ would tackle homosexual union with a million chicken sandwich march.  In the sixties Christ was made out to be a hippie (see Jesus Christ Superstar), but Christ wasn’t a hippie.  He was loving, liberal, and convicted, yes.  He was not a man of material possession but one of spiritual fulfillment.  Yet Christ didn’t protest.  His gatherings were never forced, they just seemed to happen, and this is true.  He was an enigmatic, charismatic, plainly spoken, and profound man, who was also the Son of God.  Christ made a movement, but not through force.  He didn’t pursue agendas, he pursued hearts.  He didn’t encourage wallowing in shame or basking in self-righteousness.  He pursued charity, good will, and his message of The Father came from how he lived. Christ expressed Truth openly and poetically.  He moved mountains of men, and men who were mountains.  He did these things by fulfilling the gospel and not an agenda.  He showed us how to live within the law without breaking it. 

You might ask, how does one live within the law and also break it?  “We have all fallen short of the Glory of God.” This is just as much a warning about self-righteousness as anything else.  We are not here as Christians to place eternal judgments on people for lifestyles even if said lifestyle seems to be in opposition to our faith.  We are here as Christians to serve God’s will and do so by submitting to Him, and never taking it upon ourselves to interject His intent into our own persuasions.  This is why the temple created 613 laws, because in fear of breaking 10 they created other laws, which if broken could lead to unintentional breaking of the ten.  This made living life in the spirit a religious practice of fear rather than a fulfilling spiritual practice of hope.  Christ didn’t come to destroy the law, but fulfill it and in doing so broke many of the laws the temple had established.  This is why he was hung on a tree. 

When you place His name on your own agenda and place His name into your own structure of what is worse than worse, you do something He has warned us strictly about.  Ask yourself which is worse to the strife of Christianity.  Is it worse upon the faith when a believer who is in the flesh, a sinner commits a sin through his human faults?  Don’t our misdeeds and ill actions lead us directly to Christ’s feet?  Isn’t this why we need him and isn’t that what his sacrifice was about?  Or is it worse when a believer who is a sinner in the flesh commits a sin in the name of Christ?  Doesn’t this create an illusion of who Christ is?  Doesn’t this create a barrier between the believer and the non-believer? 

So today as some of you continue your Chick-Fil-A stance in the name of Christ, ponder on the last time you passed an opportunity to help a man or woman in need.  How many times have you offered excuses on not to donate to a beggar because you believed he or she is scamming you?  How many times have you placed a necessary cause aside for your own agenda?  I’ve committed that one continuously.  Then ask yourself the real question.  Would Jesus have purchased a Chick-Fil-A sandwich on his free time today with his freed cash or would he have been in a soup kitchen, a bar, or at a nursing home uplifting the down trodden?  You see, if we took the anti Chick-Fil-A crowd and placed them on one side of a line and the stand with Chick-Fil-A crowd and placed them on the other side I am certain in my soul that Christ would be somewhere else entirely.  

Under the Hat is an opinion column exclusive to Bibblogger.  It is not to be regarded as a news report.  The opinions therein are the thoughts and opinions of its author Daniel L. Bamberg and do not necessarily reflect those of the Centreville Press or it's affiliates.