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!