SPORTS, PAGE B1 ECLECTIC, PAGE B6
Tallasse opens region play against Munford
Eclectic edges HBS on volleyball court
Details emerge on football game threat
By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
OFFICER TO BE HONORED FOR LIFESAVING
EFFORTS IN SHOOTING
By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
Police officers never know what they will encounter when dispatched to a call. Sometimes it’s a calm encounter with a motorist needing help with a flat tire. Other times the call can be about gunfire. It was such a call that led to the Tallassee Police Department to seek recognition for Cpl. Braxton Bryant following a call about gunfire from a vehicle into
another vehicle on Aug. 3.
The vehicles were traveling towards Interstate 85 on Highway 229 South. There was one victim who sustained gunshots.
“Once officer Bryant got there, he was able to determine that she had arterial bleeding coming from her arm,” Tallassee police Lt. Matt Manning said. “He immediately put a tourniquet on her arm, which stopped the bleeding.”
Once the Tallassee Fire Department and medics
arrived on the scene Bryant continued to assist with the victim’s other gunshot injuries.
Bryant’s action proved valuable in saving the victim’s life. First responders initially planned to fly the victim from the scene to a trauma center but incoming storms prevented the flight. Instead the victim was transported by ambulance to a Montgomery area hospital.
“If Cpl. Bryant hadn’t
See SHOOTING, Page A6
SUBMITTED TPI These two vehicles are believed to be involved in a Aug. 3 shooting on Highway 229 South in Tallassee. The vicitim survived thanks to efforts of the Tallassee Police Department.
Tallassee resident arrested in Montgomery County child sex sting operation
By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
Ryan Rhodes, 26, of Tallassee is no longer an Alabama Law Enforcement Agency Trooper. He resigned after being arrested for electronic solicitation of a child, traveling to meet a child for an unlawful sex act and resisting arrest.
According to an ALEA release Rhodes resigned
his position following his early Friday morning arrest in Montgomery. But Rhodes wasn’t the only Elmore County resident apprehended in a sting operation. Law enforcement
Attendance critical for Tallassee City Schools
By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
Area students are settling into a routine after returning to school nearly a month ago. Just because everyone is in a routine is no reason to slack.
The next month is critical to all schools as the Alabama State Department of Education calculates the average daily membership. It is important because it directly affects state funding for teachers.
The state looks at 20 school days between Labor Day and the middle of October. Simply put each student gets 1/20 for every day they attend school. If the student attends every day of the county, they get 20/20.
“If we gain 20 students, it means we pick up state funding for a teaching unit,” Tallassee City Schools superintendent Dr. Brock Nolin said. “If we lose 20 we lose funding for a unit. Then we have to make a decision to lose the unit or locally fund it.” Currently the system has about 95 state-funded teachers and 14 locally funded. Most of the locally funded units are at Tallassee High School allowing for extra arts and languages and some extra career tech options.
90 70
THURS: HIGH 82 LOW 69
Police Reports
TALLASSEE POLICE DEPARTMENT
SEPT. 1
• Assistance was given to a citizen on Kent Road.
• Assistance was given during a medical call on Riverside Avenue.
• Theft was reported on Gilmer Avenue.
• Debris was reported in the roadway on Gilmer Avenue.
• A white male was arrested during a domestic dispute call on Pinehurst Street.
• Burglary was reported on Rickey Lane.
• A motor vehicle accident with no injuries was reported on Kent Road.
• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Hicks Store Road.
• A welfare check was conducted on Washington Street.
• A motor vehicle accident with injuries was reported on Friendship Road.
AUG. 31
• A domestic incident was reported on Charles CC Blalock Street.
• A suspicious person was reported on Joy Street.
• A noise complaint was reported on Evergreen Street.
• A juvenile complaint was reported on Ashurst Avenue.
• A welfare check was conducted on South Wesson Street.
• Assistance was given to a citizen on Gilmer Avenue.
• An abandoned vehicle was reported on Hicks Store Road.
• A juvenile complaint was reported on Ashurst Avenue.
• Theft was reported on Rickey Lane.
• A welfare check was conducted on Camelia Drive.
• Assistance was given to a citizen on Camelia Drive and on Softball Way.
• A white male was arrested on U.S. Highway
231.
• Debris was reported in the roadway on Outer Drive.
• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Hicks Store Road.
• Assistance was given to a motorist on Gilmer Avenue. AUG. 30
• Assistance was given to a motorist on Gilmer Avenue and on Barnett Boulevard.
• Suspicious activity was reported on Outer Drive.
• An animal complaint was reported on Ashurst Avenue and on Clay Street.
• Assistance was given to a citizen on Poplar Street.
• Animal control was requested on Sylvan Lane.
• A noise complaint was reported on Hickory Street. AUG. 29
• A suspicious person was reported on Gilmer Avenue.
• Breaking and entering a vehicle was reported on Jordan Avenue.
• Suspicious activity was reported on Friendship Road.
• A private property motor vehicle accident was reported on Barnett Boulevard.
• A welfare check was conducted on Noble Road.
• Theft was reported on South Tallassee Drive.
• Animal control was requested on Sylvan Lane.
• Harassment was reported on Macedonia Road.
• Trespassing was reported on Third Avenue. AUG. 28
• A juvenile complaint was reported on Hickory Street.
• Assistance was given to another agency on Gilmer Avenue.
• Theft was reported on Benson Avenue.
• Disorderly conduct was reported on Wallace Drive.
• A welfare check was
conducted on Delta Road and Redden Avenue.
• A motor vehicle accident with no injuries was reported on Highway 229.
• Animal control was requested on Sylvan Lane.
• Assistance was given during a medical call on Cliff Street.
• Assistance was given to a motorist on South Dubois Street.
• A white female was arrested on Gilmer Avenue.
• Animal control was requested on Sylvan Lane.
• Assistance was given to the Tallassee Fire Department on Ralph Bunche Street.
• Criminal mischief was reported on Gilmer Avenue.
• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Wallace Drive.
• A welfare check was conducted on James Street. AUG. 27
• An animal complaint was reported on Third Avenue.
• Assistance was given to a citizen on Third Avenue.
• A motor vehicle accident with no injuries was reported on HIcks Store Road.
• Assistance was given to a citizen on Hillcrest Street.
• Suspicious activity was reported on Ice Plant Road.
• Assistance was given during a medical call on Lower Tuskegee Road.
• A domestic dispute was reported on Noble Road.
• Harassment was reported on West Butler Street.
• Debris was reported in the roadway on Gilmer Avenue.
• Harassment and fraudulent use of a credit card was reported on Gilmer Avenue.
• Assistance was given to a citizen on Barnett Boulevard.
• Animal complaint was
requested on Southern Pine Street.
• An animal complaint was reported on Sylvan Lane.
• Mail tampering was reported on South Wesson Street.
• Animal control was requested on Ashurst Avenue and Third Avenue.
• Assistance was given to a citizen on Greenwood Road.
• Debris was reported in the roadway on Gilmer Avenue.
• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Gilmer Avenue. AUG. 26
• Assistance was given to a motorist on Oak Heights Road.
• An abandoned vehicle was reported on Central Boulevard.
• An animal bite was reported on Paxton Drive.
• A welfare check was conducted on South Wesson Street.
• A domestic incident was reported on Main Street.
• A welfare check was conducted on Notasulga Road.
• An animal bite was reported on Lower Tuskegee Road.
• Assistance was given to a motorist on Gilmer Avenue.
• Harassing communications was reported on Greenwood Road.
• Assistance was given to a citizen on Barnett Boulevard.
• Theft was reported on Gilmer Avenue.
• Assistance was given to the Tallassee Fire Department with a ground cover fire on Indian Trail.
• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Weldon Road.
• A private property accident was reported on Gilmer Avenue.
• Criminal mischief was reported on South Tallassee Drive.
Our View Opinion
Safety always takes precedence
Friday night brought a new perspective to students, fans and residents attending the Elmore County versus Tallassee high school football game.
After a string of weather events, many attendees were not surprised when they heard over the loudspeaker they needed to leave the stadium immediately and go home. Other schools were experiencing lighting delays, and the weather pattern over the previous days would be a reasonable concern to continue with regularly scheduled sporting events. However, this was not the case.
All occupants of the Burt-Haynie Field were urged to immediately evacuate the premises, with players taking shelter in the locker room, and guests swiftly exiting the stadium. The announcers had been made aware of a possible shooting threat.
Despite the excitement Friday night football brings for people all over the state of Alabama, sacrifices sometimes have to be made to ensure the safety of citizens. While many were eager to see how the game would conclude, Elmore County High School administration worked closely with local officials and law enforcement to immediately postpone the game, sending everyone home.
It was rumored a student made a social media post regarding a threat to shoot up the game. Whether the threat was real or not, school leadership and local law enforcement made the quick decision to postpone the game entirely, ensuring the safety of the guests, players and fans.
In events such as Friday night’s game, it’s important to put safety at the forefront no matter how much fun is happening, or how well a team is playing. Any event can be made up, but a life cannot be brought back if taken away. Winning a game is not worth the possibility of losing lives.
Obituaries:
the email. Announcements will appear within 10 days in The Tribune, The Herald or The Observer.
“Just another manic Monday.”
The Bangles certainly did say it best.
However, it’s a manic Monday; a frantic Friday; a thrilling Thursday Every day of the week we seem to get hit with one thing or the next. If it’s not a car wreck, it’s a shooting or gun threat. And if not that, it’s a microburst.
What even is a microburst?
We seem to have experienced it all over the course of the last few weeks, and it doesn’t get any easier writing about all this tragedy. Sometimes — many times — I struggle to find the right words in this space.
I want to write about Heather Tucker, who welcomed me with open arms into her hotel room after her home was destroyed in the microburst storm in Alexander City last week. I also want to write about the fear that coursed through me when there was a gun threat at one of our high school football games on Friday night. As an editor, you never want to get a message from one of your reporters that he’s huddled in a locker room waiting for instructions. My heart dropped in that moment.
I want to say the right words to warm the hearts of Reed
How much more can we take?
LIZI GWIN Managing Editor
Smith’s family, a 10-year-old Horseshoe Bend student who tragically died just a week and a half ago.
I want to know what to say about the shooting that occurred on J Street in Alexander City on Monday night.
All of this happened in our tri-county coverage area in the last 10 days, and it’s hard to grapple with. It’s hard to understand why all this is happening and what can be done to change the course of action.
they can get.
their place; I’m not advocat ing for or against gun control. That’s not what this is about. kindness and doing the right thing.
take?
However, what I do want to urge our readers is to be kind.
More than ever, people are resorting to gun violence to solve their problems, and it’s a scary situation. Innocent people doing their grocery shopping at the Piggly Wiggly in Alex City were met with police vehicles and sirens after the shooting Monday. Innocent people were shuffled out of a high school football game — a game that won’t get made up and a game that’ll be lost for those kids who deserve all the field time
As a tri-county community, we are struggling to keep our heads above water with these disasters striking everywhere. At Tallapoosa Publishers Inc., we view it as one community and we hope more people will start to do the same. our community come together after tragedy strikes. The way people have outpoured their love and support for Hayes Hunter, a Horseshoe Bend stu dent who was recently diag nosed with leukemia, has been nothing short of amazing. kind spirit even in the good times. tragedy to show the world how strong we can be togeth er.
Lizi Arbogast Gwin is the managing editor of Tallapoosa Publishers Inc. She can be reached at 434-962-9420 or via email at lizi.gwin@alexc ityoutlook.com.
The Summer of Streaming, Part 1
There was a lot to watch on television this summer, from the Summer Olympics in Paris to the ever-evolving Presidential election drama ranging from a poor debate to an assassination attempt and two energetic party conventions. More on those cultural signposts later. For this Labor Day week, which signifies the end of summer and beginning of fall, I wanted to highlight a few of the better programs currently found on streaming services, with some recommendations about each.
JIM HENSON: IDEA MAN (DISNEY+)
This Ron Howard-directed documentary takes a look at puppeteer Jim Henson’s life, from the early years of his career to the creation of “Sesame Street” and “The Muppet Show” and beyond. There is also a focus on the creative and romantic partnership with his wife Jane Henson, as well as illuminating interviews with frequent collaborators such as Frank Oz. It was very interesting to see the large segment dedicated to the founding of Children’s Television Workshop with “Sesame Street” as its flagship production. Jim Henson was a once-in-a-generation kind
of talent, and this warm documentary is well worth your time.
STEVE! A DOCUMENTARY IN TWO PIECES (APPLETV+)
Documentarian Morgan Neville, who gave us the Mister Rogers film “Won’t You Be My Neighbor?”, helmed this brilliant two-part documentary on the legendary comedian, musician, author, and actor Steve Martin. There is no easy categorization for Steve-O. He began his career writing for “The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour” and playing banjo at Knott’s Berry Farm before launching a stand-up comedy career that blended old-fashioned humor with ridiculous and surreal ways of making people laugh. Steve Martin originally wanted to be a magician – and he still is! Martin reveals to the filmmaker that he obsesses over the empty seats in an audience, working hard to get their attention with memorable bits such as the arrow-through-
the-head, air quotes, and the exclamation ‘excuuuusse me’. Very little emotion is shown, save for one touching moment when Steve pulls the hardbound script for “Planes, Trains, and Automobiles” off the shelf and tearfully recalls his co-star John Candy. Martin’s friends and collaborators are interviewed, but the delightful segments featuring the jokey back-and-forth between Steve and his comedy partner (and co-star on “Only Murders in the Building”) Martin Short are really fun, as well as concert performances with his bluegrass band. Steve-O is a true icon, deserving of this well-done documentary film.
WYATT EARP AND THE COWBOY WAR (NETFLIX) This six-part series, narrated to perfection by actor Ed Harris, is a dramatic recreation of the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral and its aftermath. You may have thought you’d seen and heard this story enough – it’s been told in hundreds of films, books, and TV shows over the years. This series puts you right in the middle of the bloody action in Tombstone, Arizona, circa 1881. Earp brothers Wyatt, Virgil, and Morgan, along with Wyatt’s best
See SUMMER, Page A5
MICHAEL BIRD Columnist
First mainstream book store opens in Tallassee
By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
There is no reason to leave Tallassee to look for books to purchase. Tallassee now has The Book Nook.
The South Ann Avenue bookstore officially opened Saturday and has been a success so far.
“I think a lot of people underestimate the number of people who are bookers like we are,” Book Nook owner Samantha Segrest said. “We had 20 people in line an hour before we opened. It was crazy. We were at capacity all day long.”
Segrest comes from a large family of readers.
“We go on vacation and we all sit around and read books,” Segrest said.
A few months ago a conversation with her 86-year-old grandmother, who is a lifetime Tallassee resident, led to creating a homey book store at home.
“She said she can’t go to a bookstore,” Segrest said. “She can’t drive outside of Tallassee. There is a whole generation of people who don’t leave Tallassee. There is nowhere besides the coffee shop to sit and read.”
The Book Nook solved several issues. It provided a place to purchase books appropriate for children through adults of almost every genre from mysteries, romance, westerns, to cookbooks and a religious section.
“You name it we likely have the category,” Segrest said. “We are just on a smaller scale than the chains.”
Humane Society of Elmore County News
HSEC gears up for Bark in the Park
By REA CORD HSEC Executive Director
Sunday, Sept. 15
starting at noon will be our 18th Annual Bark in the Park at Fort Toulouse in Wetumpka.
Let’s all have some fun with our dogs by bringing your dog out to Fort Toulouse to enjoy a nice afternoon in the park.
Of course you are not required to bring a dog –just come out for a great afternoon in the park.
There will be plenty to do and see at Bark in the Park – vendors, food, demonstrations, Microchip Clinic, Blessing of the Pets, Pet Parade, Pet & Owner Contests, Paw Painting, Bark in the Park T-Shirts, some great raffle baskets, Pet Photo Booth and more!
We have numerous vendors set up under
the trees and around the Pavilion area and plenty of time for more Vendors to join us – check our Vendor App here: https:// www.elmorehumane.org/ bark-in-the-park-2024vendor-application.html or email us at the Shelter at hselco@bellsouth.net. Crepe Magic and Venice Gelato are onboard to tempt your taste buds and the Buffalo Rock Pepsi Trailer will be stocked with a variety of sodas and water for sale. And homemade baked goodies are not to be missed!
Our Blessing of the Pets will happen approximately 2-2:15 pm followed by our always popular Parade of Pets as who doesn’t like showing off their beloved pet! The Pet Contests will be for Biggest, Smallest, Best Costume, Owner/
Pet look-alike, Best Handmade/Original Costume & Judge’s Choice. Winners will get a Gift Certificate for purchases at For Healthy Pets in downtown Wetumpka! Changing it up this year we will have some super cool Gift Baskets to raffle – Coffee Basket, Wine Basket, Dog Basket and Cat Basket! Microchips can be critical to reuniting lost pets and to help keep more pets safe, bring your dog to Fort Toulouse where it can be chipped. From 1 to 3 p.m. and for only $25, which includes the registration, you can get your pet microchipped thanks to the Tuskegee College of Veterinary Medicine. Make sure to purchase your 2024 Bark in the Park T-Shirt for $15. We are most appreciative
of the Sponsors for our T-Shirt and we KNOW that Pets Make Life Better so why going with bright and cheery Lime Green this year Admission to Bark in the Park is $5/person 13 years old and older (having cash at the gate will help immensely please). ALL dogs coming to Bark in the Park must be good in public, meaning good around children, adults and other dogs in a very busy situation, AND they must have a current rabies tag/proof of rabies vaccination to come to the Park. Just in case our rain date is Sunday, 22 September still at Ft. Toulouse.
Rea Cord is the executive director of the Humane Society of Elmore County.
“It’s about the area’s only serial killer that we know about,” Segrest said. “Retired Judge Dale Segrest was the judge in the case. He is still a Macon County resident.”
The book has been so popular The Book Nook reordered three times in four days.
“Everytime we get them in they are gone,” Segrest said. “We are working on the book club meeting in September to discuss it because so many people are reading it.”
The book club is something Segrest wants The Book Nook to continue giving locals a place to openly talk about books. She also wants to bring a reading hour where patrons can come in similar to a book club, but sit and read in silence.
“We keep hearing people want to support an independent book store over the chains,” Segrest said. “We are trying to bring good priced items here beyond books as well.”
Segrest said Tallassee had a Christian bookstore in the 1990s but in all her research she has yet to find where a mainstream bookstore has opened. Her research also shows the benefits of a community that reads.
“When you have a community engaged in reading and bookstores you have a situation where people are open and well rounded,” Segrest said. “It comes out good for everyone. It provides a sense of community.”
The Book Nook also features local authors and local subject matters such as Linda Lou Long’s The Tuskegee Strangler.
SUMMER
Continued from A4
friend Doc Holliday, confront Ike Clanton and his vicious Cowboy gang over and over in various settings. There’s more to tell about the story and the dramatization here, which is done in a very contemporary style, but you need to watch this series for yourself. If you love the stories of the Wild West, you do not want to miss this six-part program about one of the greatest legends of them all, Wyatt Earp.
BRATS (HULU)
It may be because I came of age during that era, but it seems the coming-of-age films created in the 1980s evoke
Pet of the Week — Sadie Mae
Sadie Mae is a 19-month-old female possible German Shepherd/Belgian Malinois mix who weighs about 65 pounds. She is good with dogs, cats and children but came to us for getting into trouble being destructive at home. Given her breed mix, she very likely needs a job and/or a lot of exercise of her body and her brain. Sadie Mae is smart with lots of energy so that can be a lot to handle if you are not up to the task. Another dog to romp with might be good for when her owner is busy at work and the like. The Humane Society of Elmore County’s adoption fees are $100 for dogs and $50 for cats under 1 year old. Cats over 1 can be adopted by approved adopters for a fee of their choosing. This adoption fee covers the mandatory spay or neuter, basic immunizations, deworming, microchip, heartworm check for dogs, rabies vaccination if old enough and a free health exam with your participating veterinarian. If you are interested in meeting Sadie Mae or any of the pets at HSEC, the first step is to fill out an adoption application online. Once approved, you will be contacted by someone from the humane society. HSEC is located at 255 Central Plank Road in Wetumpka. The phone number is 334-567-3377 and the website is www.elmorehumane.org.
TPI’s Rodgers awarded Rotary Paul Harris award
By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
Note:
Editor’s
The Tallassee Rotary Club recently recognized Clay Hornsby, Jeff Mask, Carmen Rodgers and Logan Steers as Paul Harris Award winners. They are most often given to a member of the club who has served as president or gone above and beyond in supporting the club. A story will be published about each award winner
When Carmen Rodgers joined the Tallassee Rotary Club in 2016 she told herself she was going to be active. She soon set off to volunteering in various club events. Those efforts paid off as she was given the Paul Harris Fellowship award by the club recently. Rodgers is appreciative of the recognition but wants the spotlight to be on the
nostalgia even for people who weren’t even there. The actors who became branded as the Brat Pack after starring in movies such as “The Breakfast Club,” “St. Elmo’s Fire,” “Sixteen Candles,” and “Pretty in Pink” have had varying degrees of success in the 40 years since, and this documentary serves as part anthropological exposition and part group therapy session. Actor Andrew McCarthy directed and produced this documentary, and he catches up with fellow Brat Pack members Emilio Estevez, Demi Moore, Ally Sheedy, Rob Lowe, and others as he attempts to put a period on the end of the sentence about the Brats, now in their late 50s or early 60s. It is interesting to hear the views
causes of Rotary
“It means a lot,” Rodgers said. “For instance the fundraiser that we had this past summer, it raised enough money that we can fund our scholarship this year. It helps a deserving senior who needs that money to attend college. That means more to me than anything, just knowing that I was able to help.”
The Paul Harris Award was created in memory of the Rotary International founder Paul Harris. The organization formed in
of the actors in pretty unvarnished terms: Estevez resents ever being labeled and thrown in with the group, while Lowe looks upon the period fondly and is proud to have been a part of it. Brat Pack members Judd Nelson (who appears offscreen from an ‘undisclosed location’) and Molly Ringwald do not participate, and their opinions are missed.
BEWITCHED 60TH ANNIVERSARY
TV SPECIAL (YOUTUBE TV)
My new boss at Faulkner told me this was on, and my devices must have been listening because when I came home it was in my queue to watch. “Bewitched” had the tremendous good fortune to have the best writers (Danny Arnold, later of “Barney Mill-
Chicago in 1905. Rodgers said its mission is not only to connect with members but to serve the public.
“We help people who are in need, women, children,” Rodgers said. “Our greatest effort is we have almost eradicated polio.” Current Tallassee Rotary Club president Stephanie Weldon said the Paul Harris award often goes to the president of the club. She has now served as president three different times and been given the award in
er”) and producers (William Asher, who was married to the leading lady). The series began 60 years ago this fall on ABC and ran for eight successful seasons. Elizabeth Montgomery starred as Samantha Stephens, who tried to keep secret the fact that she was a witch. Dick York (and, for the last couple of years, Dick Sargent) starred as her exasperated husband Darrin. Sam’s mother, Endora, was played by radio and film veteran Agnes Moorehead. Other cast members included Alice Ghostley as Esmeralda; Marion Lorne as Aunt Clara; Paul Lynde as Uncle Arthur; Bernard Fox as Dr. Bombay; David White as Larry Tate; and other assorted players
the past. “It often goes to the president because of the extra efforts they put it in,” Weldon said. “So it’s not just for the role in the club but for the community service and volunteering as well.”
Weldon said Rodgers is a past president of the club and has helped tremendously with fundraising especially related to scholarships.
Rodgers is a Tallassee native and one of the last babies born at Community Hospital. She spent part of her childhood in Montgomery “As soon as I was old enough to know better I moved back,” Rodgers said. She was humble in talking about the award. Instead Rodgers encouraged everyone to help in the community “I just want to help my community,” Rodgers said. “I want to see everyone thrive.”
who came and went. The documentary focuses primarily on the stories from behind the scenes, using interviews with the players who made the show to demonstrate just how great of a team they had. No one had anything bad to say, except there was one portion of the documentary that detailed how Agnes Moorhead voiced her displeasure at the Darrin switch during the sixth season and never got along with replacement Darrin Dick Sargent. So the bad blood between Darrin and Endora was real! Next week, we continue with The Summer of Streaming Part II. Michael Bird is a music teacher at Faulkner University
The Book Nook on South Ann Avenue in downtown Tallassee has opened. It is the first main stream book store in town and offers a variety of books and a book club.
SUBMITTED | TPI
Carmen Rodgers, left, and Logan Steers pose with Tallassee Rotary Club president Stephanie Weldon after they were presented with Paul Harris awards at a recent Rotary meeting.
Continued from A1
officials held a press conference Monday explaining the operation where Rhodes and 10 other men were arrested in an east Montgomery hotel Thursday and Friday during an undercover law enforcement sting.
“This was all done through decoy work,” Montgomery County Sheriff Office assistant chief deputy Wesley Richardson. “There were no actual victims.”
Richardson said Rhodes and the other men encountered law enforcement online, in chat rooms and social media posing as children.
“They agreed to engage in unlawful sex acts with individuals they believed to be minors,” Richardson said. “These suspects then traveled to carry out these unlawful acts.”
Montgomery County Sheriff Derrick Cunningham called the arrests alarming, especially coming eight months after a similar operation in the county net 15 arrests.
“We are talking about human trafficking, sex trafficking and things in our county,” Cunningham said.
Cunningham said the suspects are not all from Montgomery. Four were from outside Montgomery. Two reside in Elmore County, one in Lee County and one from New York.
“We are talking about the people who want to come here and prey on our young people,” Cunningham said.
Dai Xing Chen, 45, of New Albany, New York; Subin Choi, 34, of Auburn; James Clifford Grier, 44, of Montgomery; Michael Lynn Hester, 54, of Montgomery; James LeGregory McGhee, 47, of Montgomery; William Robert Ogburn Jr., 44, of Montgomery; Justin Gregory Tomberlin, 36, of Deatsville; Joseph Carroll Vasseur III, 38, of Opelousas, Louisiana; Owen Delma Walker Jr., 57, of Montgomery and and Qu’Darrius D’arcy Ja’Quan White, 24, of Montgomery were arrested with Rhodes. Tomberlin was charged with attempted human trafficking, electronic solicitation of a child and traveling to meet a child for an unlawful sexual act.
Montgomery County District Attorney Daryl Bailey said all had a $500,000 bond. Rhodes posted bail and has been released from the Montgomery County Jail.
ATTENDANCE
Continued from A1
“We get full ADM for that child when that happens,” Nolin said.
Small motors certification arrives at Tallassee High
By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
Property owners get frustrated from time to time as lawn mowers need repair Most often it is related to the small motor that drives the blades of the push mower and also the wheels on larger zero turn mowers.
Tallassee High School students are learning how to repair small motors thanks to a donation from Briggs and Stratton and agribusiness teacher Dr. Daniel Free looking out for his students. Soon the students will be certified by Briggs and Stratton. Free traveled to Kentucky this summer to train with Briggs and Stratton to teach the students. The company had already donated motors to Free’s program. Some are 15 years old but brand new and never been cranked.
“The basic idea is they're disassembling these to turn around and reassemble them,” Free said.
The students replace gaskets and fuel lines along the way all while paying attention to specs provided by Briggs and Stratton.
“(Briggs and Stratton) have what's called the power portal,” Free said. “The students have access to every Briggs and Stratton motor that is
made or has been made. They now have access to all the parts, manuals, torque specs, everything.”
Having access to all the information a small motor technician has is needed as the students work to complete the strident technician certification.
“When they are done, the motors have to run,” Free said. “It’s part of their grade.”
When the students are finished with small 7-horsepower motors, they will then move to the V-Twin motors used on the zero-turn lawn mowers.
“It’s the same thing again,” Free said. “They will break them all the way back down, reassemble, and then they got to crank.”
Senior Braxton McLain grew up around small motors. Two summers ago he pur-
chased two small engines.
“I put them on a mini bike and made it go 70 mph,” McLain said.
He stepped away from the motors for a little but has quickly re-familiarize himself with small motors under Free.
“I do want to get certified on small motors, and then I'm also becoming an electrician,” McLain said.
If McLain wants, the certification can be used to get a job locally at Tallassee Power Equipment. It also gives students an edge at getting a job at Briggs and Stratton’s Auburn manufacturing plant, according to Free.
Working on a small motor is similar to the engines in cars for senior Nic Chandler who works at Parker Tire.
“The biggest difference is the size and the number of parts involved,” Chandler
said.
The small motors certification is only the beginning of the certifications offered in Free’s agribusiness program.
“There are eight different ways I can certify a kid,” Free said. “Then once they leave my room, they can get a job somewhere.”
Certifications include forestry, specialty crops, beef quality assurance, home builders, Ducks Unlimited (wildlife conservation), NCCER with construction and Briggs and Stratton.
Free is finishing up his training to be able to offer a horticulture certification to his landscaping students after the new year.
Free said he willingly takes on the training to offer certifications to help students have a better future. He also gives thanks to administrators such as superintendent Dr. Brock Nolin, principal Drew Glass, Keith Mcnaughton and others.
“Many schools do not have the support for an ag program the way I do,” Free said. “I am able to offer the opportunities for my students because my superiors want the kids to be as prepared for the next level and life as they possibly can be. I’m all in for my kids and my program because the door was opened for me to go all out by my administration.”
Tallassee mayor responds to football game threat
TPI STAFF Staff Report
Tallassee Mayor Sarah Hill was appreciative of how authorities responded to the threat at the Tallassee-Elmore County football game Friday night.
“I want to thank our (Tallassee
City Schools) administration, Tallassee Police Department, Elmore County Schools administration, Eclectic Police and Elmore County Sheriff's Office for their swift actions (Friday) evening,” Hill said in a statement. “I echo (Tallassee superintendent) Dr. (Brock) Nolin's statements that one bad actor can ruin
to an extra teaching unit.
one of our long-cherished traditions of Friday night football games. I hope there is quick resolution on the bad actors.” Hill said she hopes no one has to experience anything like this again.
“I hope all of our children are able to heal from this unfortunate event and may God Bless us all,” Hill said.
DETAILS
Continued from A1 ARRESTED
Elmore County Schools superintendent Richard Dennis said he
“We might have discussions about what to do if we need to cut or fund locally,” Nolin said.
Special education students are funded by the state at a slightly higher rate. Nolin said the difference doesn’t add up
For Tallassee City Schools 20 students means the system receives state funding for one teacher unit. The ADM is tied to funding for the 2025-26 school year. The nearly yearlong delay allows the system to plan how to cover losses in teacher units if attendance is down.
was at the game early on but left before the threat to attend another ballgame.
“In a situation like that, I trust in the administrators to make the appropriate decisions,”
The ADM count doesn’t allow for special or catastrophic events. Nolin recalled a year when a threat was made to the schools.
“The next day we had about 40% absent,” Nolin said. “It meant about $35,000 in funding.”
Nolin said enrollment as of Aug. 21 for Tallassee City Schools was 1,434. A year ago
Dennis said.
The game was paused in the third quarter with the score tied 14-14. The teams went to the locker rooms and fans asked to evacuate the stadium. The game will not be
resumed.
it was 1,443 for a difference of nine students.
“I expect it to be about even by the time everyone gets done moving around,” Nolin said. “Usually the first month of school we have people come in and some transfer in and out.”
About 15 years ago Tallassee City Schools had about 2,100 students and lost between 25 and 30 students per year. Nolin is happy with this year’s estimated attendance thus far, especially following staff ’s efforts to increase it for the state report card last school year.
“We did it for safety precautions,” Head said. “We didn’t know who was involved. We didn’t know if other people might be there (and involved).”
Head said he didn’t know if the individuals involved in the reported threat were juveniles or adults.
Tallassee police chief Todd Buce said his officers escorted one person from the stadium unrelated to the threat.
Tallassee City Schools superintendent Dr. Brock Nolin said it was his understanding that the intent was to bring the teams back out to complete the game after the stands were clear.
“But that decision
“I met with the principals the other day about not letting off the gas pedal,” Nolin said. “We cut our attendance issues in half last year. If we can replicate that and do a little better then we will be in good shape.”
was scrapped by the officials and the game was canceled,” Nolin said. “Those decisions are up to the host school. Unfortunately one bad actor on social media can ruin most anything with a foolish post.”
Tallassee coach Lawrence O’Neal took to social media Saturday morning. He said he was mad, disgusted and disappointed.
“My kids practice hard all week for an opportunity to go out and play a game that they love, to compete in front of their friends and family, to enjoy the contest between rivals, all to have the actions of a few rob them of that opportunity,” O’Neal wrote in the post.
“To see the disappoint-
SHOOTING
Continued from A1
used a tourniquet, the victim would have likely bled to death,” chief Todd Buce said. “At first she was in very critical condition.” Manning said the victim has since been released from the hospital.
The use of a tourniquet to stop bleeding is part of the training for Tallassee police officers. “We call it tactical medicine,” Manning said. “He’s had several training classes related to first aid.”
Buce and Manning said Bryant will be recognized
ment and pain in their eyes is very heartbreaking. I say this Tigers, keep your heads up.”
O’Neal went to thank authorities and law enforcement for a quick response to the situation making sure everyone was safe.
Nolin said the incident would be discussed with administrators this week to determine what if any changes surrounding procedures and security at future Tallassee City Schools events is warrant. Dennis said he too would speak with administrators about possible changes.
“Don’t be surprised if we have to start using hand wands or something like that in the future,” Dennis said.
at a future Tallassee City Council meeting. Currently the Tallassee Police Department has not made an arrest in the case. Law enforcement is still investigating it and seeking help from the public. Manning said detectives have located video footage of two black vehicles near the victim’s vehicle moments before the shooting.
“One appears to be a sedan, and one appears to be an SUV,” Manning said. “We can see them leave the frame of the video and then hear multiple gunshots.” Central Alabama CrimeStoppers is offering a possible cash reward for information in the case.
CLIFF WILLIAMS TPI
Tallassee High School agribusiness teacher Dr. Daniel Free, center, helps Braxton McLain, left, with a carburetor issue on a small motor as Tien Vuons assembles his motor.
God provides all needs
Iwas recently reminded of two friends who were on vacation. While riding down the highway they chatted about their budgets.
One friend looked at the other and said, “I always think your resources are like the oil and flour the widow used to make that cake she gave Elijah when she and her son were about to starve.” The story of Elijah can be a comfort and encouragement to us. Being a strong person of God does not mean that we will never feel discouraged, but rather, it means looking to God
when we face adversity. The other friend said, “you’re always giving to somebody, but still you always seem to have enough.” “I know,” she agreed. “I’m not rich, but I’m never in want either. Things always seem to work out.” With God, there is always enough to give to others. Little is much when God is in it. One day, He will say, “if you’ve been faithful, welcome home, my child, well done.” But, like the widow, what if you are found alone? Depressed? Empty? Abandoned?
Helpless? Hopeless? Hunger? Thirsty? Ignored? In physical or spiritual poverty? Do you find yourself knowing of God but not knowing God?
All Elijah wanted was a small cake to eat but the poor widow did not have enough oil or flour to feed her own family, much less Elijah.
Elijah’s words from the Lord said, “do not fear; go and do as you have said, but make a small cake from it first, and bring it to me; and afterward make some for yourself your son”.
For this is what the Lord, the
Tallassee Churches
God of Israel says: “There will always be flour and olive oil left in your containers until the time when the Lord sends rain and the crops grow again.”
Just as the Lord promised, there was enough flour and olive oil left in the containers.
The friends’ conversation quickly turned to the Israelites wandering in the desert for forty years. In all that time, their clothes and their sandals did not wear out. God wanted them to see that their God was willing and able to meet even their most basic needs.
JACKIE WILBOURN Columnist
I do know the God of the desert is just as able to give “shoe and sandal insurance” today as He was then.
“Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap,” says NIV Luke 6:38.
Jackie Wilbourn is a member of Bethel Baptist Church and a chaplain with Alabama Disaster Relief Team.
Surrounding Area Churches
Dalton MiDDleton SportS eDitor dalton.middleton@thewetumpkaherald.com
Elmore County sees success with tough schedule
By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor
Elmore County’s volleyball team has been through the wringer so far this season. The Panthers wrapped up a successful weekend at the MAC Attack tournament held at Montgomery Academy on Saturday. Despite going only 1-2 in the event,
ECHS coach Kim Moncrief likes what she has seen from her team early in the season.
“They have responded so well,” Moncrief said. “They have had play dates with high level classifications, tournaments with higher level and private schools who have a high number of club ball players.”
Elmore County was put into the private school pool
at the MAC Attack. The Panthers started the day against Glenwood, which recently moved to the AHSAA after being a force in AISA for many years.
Elmore County lost the match, then faced the defending Class 5A champions in Montgomery Academy which only lost one
REGION PLAY BEGINS FOR COUNTY TEAMS
By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor
TALLASSEE (0-1) AT MUNFORD (1-0) THE PLAYERS
Tallassee: QB Trent Morris has scored four touchdowns this season, three passing and one rushing. … WR Jordan King has caught all three of Morris’ touchdown passes. … RB Tiny Green took over running back duties last week.
Munford: RB Tank Edmonson rushed 26 times for 189 yards, 3 TDs. … QB BJ Anderson scored 1 rushing touchdown in the opening win.
FOUR DOWNS
Last week, Munford beat Lincoln, 30-3; Tallassee’s game with Elmore County was suspended in the third quarter due to a gun threat. Munford beat Tallassee, 19-6, the last time they met in 2017. Munford holds a 3-1 series lead.
Munford’s defense allowed just 31 rushing yards last week and had 8 tackles for a loss.
Tallassee’s only win over Munford came in 1995.
NEXT UP: Tallassee at BTW Tuskegee; Munford at Bullock County.
CARROLL-OZARK (0-2) AT ELMORE COUNTY (1-0) THE PLAYERS
Elmore County: RB Tyler Payton has 21 carries for 220 yards, 3 TDs; added 3 tackles on defense. … DL/QB Caleb Spivey has recorded 9 tackles, 6 tackles for a loss, 2 sacks; added 54 yards, 1 TD on offense. … DE Luke Reinert has recorded 7 tackles, 6 tackles for a loss, 0.5 sacks.
Carroll-Ozark: QB Holden Pawlik has completed 13 of 26 passes for 132 yards, 1 INT. … RB Jacarrie Hammock has rushed 20 times for 69 yards. … DE Desmond Parker has recorded 2 sacks.
FOUR DOWNS
Last week, Carroll-Ozark lost to Rehobeth, 33-8; Elmore County’s game with Tallassee was suspended in the third quarter due to a gun threat. Elmore County and Car-
roll-Ozark have never met in a game.
Carroll-Ozark is averaging 4 points per game on offense. Elmore County’s defense has allowed only two touchdowns in two games.
NEXT UP: Elmore County hosts Holtville; Carroll-Ozark at Charles Henderson.
SYLACAUGA (2-0) AT HOLTVILLE (0-2) THE PLAYERS
Sylacauga: QB CJ Franklin has completed 8 of 10 passes for 173 yards, 5 TDs. … RB Rance Machen has 9 carries for 53 yards. … WR Gabriel Harrell has 4 catches for 101 yards.
Holtville: QB Jacob Burgess has thrown 2 touchdown passes this season. WR Elijah Headley leads the team in receiving yards. … DE Anthony Chunn recorded 9 tackles, 1 fumble recovery last week.
FOUR DOWNS Last week, Holtville lost to Shelby County, 31-14; Sylacauga beat Montevallo, 15-7.
Gun threat was handled gracefully
As I was sitting at halftime in Eclectic on Friday night, I was scrolling through X looking for scores for all of the teams in Elmore County. I looked up Kamarri Darrington’s account – one of our freelancers – and saw that Edgewood Academy was in a power outage that lasted nearly 90 minutes. I thought to myself, “Thank God I’m not there tonight.”
Then as the third quarter started winding down, I watched Elmore County’s football team start sprinting to the locker room. My first thought
was that there must have been a lightning strike somewhere close and the game was about to go into a delay. I was wrong. The announcer quickly told everyone to evacuate the stadium and to go home immediately. I was standing on Tallassee’s sideline at the time taking photos, and the team was just as confused as me.
By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor
Wetumpka’s defense will face its biggest test this week.
After a disheartening one-point loss on the road at Chelsea last week, Wetumpka returns to the friendly confines of home and is set to host Russell County in the AHSAA Class 6A, Region 3 opener at the Wetumpka Sports Complex on Friday.
Wetumpka enters the region opener with a 1-1 record, having beaten Beauregard 19-14 and losing to Chelsea, 15-14.
Russell County is also 1-1 after beating Carroll-Ozark 32-0 and losing to Eufaula, 34-21.
“Losing last week by one point is a sick feeling, but the guys know all of our energy is going into Friday night,” Wetumpka coach Bear Woods said.
“This is region play. This is go-time.”
Wetumpka’s defense will certainly have its hands full. The Russell County offense is filled with experienced skill players who can score at any point of the game.
Junior quarterback Bryson Riggins, an All-Region selection from a year ago, returns and is slinging the ball around for the Warriors.
In two games this year, Riggins is 28-of-50 passing for 511 yards, four touchdowns and two interceptions. Riggins has a handful of superstars at receiver to throw the ball to, but none better than senior Denver Harper.
Harper has been mostly contained this season with only seven catches in two games, but every catch has been a big one. He has 189 receiving yards, good for 27 yards per catch, to go with one touchdown.
Jamari Burnett has six catches for 130 yards and
Elmore County’s Kayden Edwards (20) goes for a kill in the regional tournament last season. Edwards and the Panthers begin area play this week against Beauregard.
one touchdown to take some pressure off Harper.
One of last year’s top receivers, Devin Brown, has made the move to running back this season and is showcasing his versatility out of the backfield. Brown leads all skill players in touchdowns. He has 93 rushing yards and two touchdowns, and has added 82 receiving yards and one touchdown on seven catches.
“They have just as good of skill players as anybody in our region,” Woods said. “They have three guys who can score at any time. Bryson is a great quarterback and has an incredible arm. He’s a difference maker since he’s assumed the starting role. Devin Brown and Denver Harper, they have big play capabilities. Between those two guys, they’re as good as anybody we’ll face. They’re an offensive big play team.”
For Woods and his defense, it hasn’t mattered what team was on the other side of the field. The Indians have been more than stellar in 2024 so far.
Wetumpka’s defense is only allowing 13.5 points after two of the 29 points scored on them came from a safety. The Indians have allowed two touchdowns each to Chelsea and Beauregard, mostly on broken plays, while the group has been more than stellar.
In the opening win over Beauregard, Wetumpka allowed less than 200 yards and 58 rushing yards. The Indians had two sacks, multiple blocked kicks and scored a defensive touchdown on a strip sack.
In the loss to Chelsea, Wetumpka allowed only 60 rushing yards while intercepting three Chelsea passes, returning one for a
DALTON MIDDLETON | TPI
Wetumpka’s Logan Gaare (8) flexes after a defensive play against Beauregard. Through two games, Gaare and the Wetumpka defense are allowing just 13.5 points per game and have scored two defensive touchdowns.
DALTON MIDDLETON
Tallassee fans celebrate in the stands after the Tigers scored a touchdown in the second quarter of their matchup with Elmore County on Friday. The Tigers open region play this week on the road against Munford.
ELMORE, Page B2
BenRussellBenRussellBenRussellBenRussellBenRussellBenRussellBenRussellCalera CentralCoosa@ Winterboro CentralCoosaWinterboroCentralCoosaWinterboroCentralCoosaCentralCoosaCentralCoosaWinterboro
Dadeville@ Beulah DadevilleDadevilleDadevilleBeulahDadevilleDadevilleDadevilleDadeville Carroll-Ozark@ ElmoreCounty ElmoreCountyElmoreCountyElmoreCountyElmoreCountyElmoreCountyElmoreCountyElmoreCountyElmoreCounty Sylacauga@ Holtville HoltvilleHoltvilleHoltvilleHoltvilleHoltvilleHoltvilleSylacaugaSylacauga
Shelby County beat Holtville, 35-16, in 2021; the alltime series is tied 1-1. Sylacauga has already matched its win total (2) from the last two years combined.
Holtville’s offense is averaging just 12 points per game this season.
NEXT UP: Holtville at Elmore County; Sylcauga hosts Beauregard.
THREAT
Continued from B1
The Tigers were quickly told what was going on, however, and rushed to their locker room.
I jogged back across the football field to pick up my camera bag, and ran into ECHS coach Kyle Caldwell who told me to come into the locker room with Elmore County’s team. There, I sat with the Panthers — players, coaches, a few younger students and family members — as we tried to figure out exactly what was going on. Turns out it was a shooting threat.
I sat in the locker room with Elmore County for the next 45 minutes or so before
WETUMPKA
Continued from B1
touchdown. The Indians also set up a score with a special teams fumble recovery on the opening kickoff.
“The fact we were
Continued from B1
player from last year’s squad.
STANHOPE ELMORE (1-1) AT PERCY JULIAN (1-1) THE PLAYERS
Stanhope Elmore: RB Arthur McQueen has 45 carries for 416 yards, 4 TDs. … QB Zac Holcombe was 5 for 8 passing last week with his first career touchdown pass. … SS Joidaden Carter-Stone continued his turnover abilities with a forced fumble last week.
Percy Julian: QB Bryson McGrew has completed 12 of 32 passes for 202 yards, 2 TDs. … RB Antwan Barmes has 21 carries for 129 yards, 1 TD. … LB Keshun Marbury
the game was officially suspended and everyone started to leave. As I think back on the events that took place on Burt-Haynie Field on Friday, I couldn’t be happier with the way it was handled by both communities, schools and coaching staffs. As soon as officials heard that there was a threat, Elmore County principal Jason Eason was informed of the situation. They decided to instantly postpone the game and send everyone home, which was 100% the correct choice. No matter if there was a real threat or not, it’s not worth taking that risk and everyone knew that. There was no panic involved either. The PA got everyone out calmly and safely. It was run beautifully,
able to hold Chelsea to 60 yards rushing with the amount of time our defense was on the field, that was one of the best performances I’ve seen of any group at any level,” Woods said. “What you’re seeing with our defensive group is guys who have
To wrap up the weekend, Elmore County earned a win over Alabama Christian Academy, 2-1.
“Every year we come to compete, and we begin by putting ourselves in tough tournaments to learn how we can get better each year,” Moncrief said. “We are a small, rural school with a lot of heart. Our athletes play big. They play beyond, because they believe.
has recorded 13 tackles, 2 tackles for a loss.
FOUR DOWNS
Last week, Stanhope Elmore lost to Prattville, 34-13; Percy Julian lost to Carver, 44-12.
Stanhope Elmore beat Percy Julian, 47-14, the last time they met in 2011.
Stanhope Elmore leads the all-time series, 5-1.
Stanhope Elmore has won six-consecutive region openers. NEXT UP: Stanhope Elmore at Park Crossing; Percy Julian hosts Russell County.
all things considered. There were possible plans to finish the football game after everyone left with no fans in the stands, but it did not happen.
With the game no longer being a region game — Tallassee is in Class 4A and Elmore County in 5A — the game did not matter as far as playoff implications go. The coaches thought about rescheduling the game, but there are no open dates on the schedules that work with each other.
So the game was suspended and went down as a no contest.
Both coaches were saddened, and Tallassee coach Lawrence “L.A.” O’Neal posted on Facebook about it Saturday and thanked everyone involved for keeping the
been starting for three years and they’re being rewarded for growing as players and understanding the game.”
With Russell County having the skill players to score at any point, Wetumpka’s offense will have to step up and take control of the
And I’m proud to be a part of it.” The real season begins this week for Elmore County. The Panthers have won 14-consecutive area championships, and they will look to continue that streak on Thursday night at home.
Elmore County hosts Beauregard in a tough region opener Beauregard is coming off a 32-8 season last year. The two met once last year with Elmore County pulling out a 2-1 victory.
STANHOPE ELMORE CONTINUES HOT START The Mustangs from Mill -
RUSSELL COUNTY (1-1) AT WETUMPKA (1-1) THE PL AYERS
Wetumpka: QB Tyler Johnson has completed 28 of 54 passes for 340 yards, 1 TD, 2 INTs. … LB/S Kelby Walker has recorded 19 tackles, 5 tackles for a loss, 2 sacks. … DB Justin Godwin has recorded 12 tackles, 2 INTs.
Russell County: QB Bryson Riggins has completed 28 of 50 passes for 511 yards, 4 TDs, 2 INTs. … WR Denver Harper has 7 catches for 189 yards, 1 TD. … DE Kameron
kids safe. “You Right I’m mad, disgusted, & disappointed. My Kids practice hard all week for a opportunity to go out & play a game that they love, to compete in front of their friends & family, to enjoy the contest between rivals all to have the actions of a few rob them of that opportunity. To see the disappointed & pain in their eyes is very heartbreaking. I say this Tigers Keep your heads Up!!! Thank You for the swift response from Authorities & Big Thank You to Law Enforcement, The Administration Teams, Support Staff, Parents, & Fans for ensuring that All The Students, Band Members, Cheerleaders, Dance Teams, & Athletes were safe & secure,” O’Neal posted.
game. In last week’s game against Chelsea, the Indians had only 147 yards of offense. They rushed 25 times for 29 yards, good for 1.2 yards per carry.
Wetumpka’s offense recorded over 350 yards in the opener and was much more effective,
brook are off to a fantastic start to the 2024 season. Stanhope Elmore started its year with a sweep of Benjamin Russell and Elmore County which marked the first time coach Flavia Freeney has defeated Elmore County as a coach.
Stanhope followed that tri-match with its own home opener against Tallassee and Prattville, where it split 1-1. It swept Tallassee before being swept by its rivals across I-65.
In the latest matchup, Stanhope Elmore hit the road and took down Chilton County in
Reese has recorded 8 tackles, 6 tackles for a loss, 3 sacks.
FOUR DOWNS Last week, Wetumpka lost to Chelsea 15-14; Russell County lost to Eufaula, 34-21. Wetumpka beat Russell County, 52-36, last season. Wetumpka leads the all-time series between the two teams, 11-3.
Wetumpka’s defense has scored a touchdown in each of its first two games. NEXT UP: Wetumpka at Pike Road; Russell County at Percy Julian.
I saw another Facebook post over the weekend that really stuck out to me. Catherine Barker Davis posted that during the exit, her son went around and picked up items in the stands that were left during the hecticness. She received more than 30 comments — some thanking her son — about items they left and she was able to get them their items that were left in the stadium. It’s stuff like that kid’s actions that are what people should look upon in moments like this. There are people handling these events with grace, and that was certainly evident on Friday.
Dalton Middleton is the sports editor of Tallapoosa Publishers Inc.’s Elmore County newspapers.
but they still scored only two touchdowns.
In two games, Wetumpka’s offense has scored three touchdowns while the defense has scored two.
“We have to win first downs,” Woods said of his offense. “We have to win first downs so
a non-region matchup. Their most important game of the season comes Thursday as the Mustangs host rival Wetumpka in the region opener.
HOLTVILLE DROPS REGION OPENER
The Bulldogs, under new leadership with first-year coach Loryn Herring, opened region play last week with a home matchup against Marbury. Marbury walked away with a 3-0 win over Holtville in the opener, moving Holtville to 0-1 in region play. The Bulldogs look to get back on track this week with
we can open up our play calling abilities on second and medium or second and short. We really stayed behind the chains all night last Friday. Moving forward, we are looking at some things like how we teach the offense to the kids.”
a matchup with Billingsley on Thursday at home.
TALLASSEE STARTS 0-3
Tallassee’s volleyball team is not off to the start it wanted. The Tigers, which are seeing players play multiple sports with flag football also being played this fall, are off to an 0-3 start to the year. The Tigers opened the season with a tri-match at Stanhope Elmore, where they fell to both the host Mustangs and the visiting Prattville Lions. Following the opener, Tallassee hosted Beauregard last Thursday and was swept, 3-0.
ELMORE
PLAYER OF THE WEEK
Edgewood’s Whitt runs wild in opening win
By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor
Brock Whitt lived up to the preseason hype.
The Edgewood Academy football team opened the 2024 season a week later than most on Friday night, and the Wildcats walked away with a 27-14 win over rival Hooper
In the process, Whitt began his second season as the starting quarterback for the Wildcats.
Edgewood Academy has had high hopes for the second-year signal caller, and he answered the call on Friday night. Whitt, who is the biggest player on the team at 6-foot-3 and 230 pounds, carried the ball 19 times for a careerhigh 163 yards and one touchdown. His running ability then opened up the passing game where he was able to pass for 53 yards and another
touchdown.
For his performance, Whitt is the Elmore County Player of the Week.
“Our offensive line did a really good job,”
Edgewood coach Chad Michael said. “We set the tone early with them and when you have 230 pounds coming down hill with 210 pounds (Parker Shaw) leading the way, it’s hard to contain for an entire game.”
A lot of Whitt’s runs came on read plays.
The Hooper defense
was keying on Shaw early in the game, and would go after him on the handoff. Whitt would quickly take the ball back and take off down the field, resulting in first down after first
down.
As the night went on and the defense started keying on Whitt, Shaw started having success. Shaw finished with 12 carries for 80 yards and a touchdown.
“Brock had some big runs off that,” Michael said. “We’ve really worked on zone reads this summer. We are making sure we are making the right decision on our reads, and he did a
good job on that.” Whitt didn’t step back to throw often against Hooper, as it wasn’t needed. Following the 90-minute delay due to a power outage, Edgewood got back out in the second half and continued running the ball.
As they noticed Hooper getting more and more tired, the Wildcats continued running it. Hooper did, however, give Edgewood an opportunity for a long pass play.
“They went 1-on-1 coverage with Landon (Smith) on the outside and we ran a little out and up against them,” Michael said. “Brock threw a really good ball and Landon made a great play on it. We didn’t have to throw the ball much on Friday, but we will have to going forward. When we do have to throw the ball, I feel like we will be able to.”
Edgewood Academy quarterback Brock Whitt runs the football against Hooper Academy on Friday. Whitt
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Eclectic schools closed Tuesday due to water outage
By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
Elmore County Public Schools in Eclectic reopened last Wednesday morning after water was restored Tuesday afternoon. The school system scrambled buses and transportation Tuesday morning just after students arrived and found no water pressure at the Eclectic Child Development Program, Eclectic Ele-
mentary School, Eclectic Middle School and Elmore County High School.
Town of Eclectic Utilities worked Monday and Tuesday to restore water to the schools and other parts of town.
“Everything is looking good,”
Eclectic Mayor Gary Davenport said Tuesday afternoon. “The flow to the tanks from Tallassee was cut. The water tanks were not filling as fast as we were
using it.”
Davenport said a leak on the west side of town was discovered Monday and fixed by about midnight. Tuesday morning water pressure was so low at the schools, toilets did not function.
“I tried it (Tuesday moring),” superintendent Richard Dennis said. “They wouldn’t flush.”
Lack of water forced Elmore County Schools to send students home not long after they arrived
on campus. The water outage posed two problems.
“First, there are no bathrooms,” Dennis said. “Second, there is no water for the kitchens to prepare meals.”
With planning the schools can be without a kitchen. Food, most likely bagged lunches could be brought to the schools.
After school officials received word water had been restored, school maintenance personnel checked the bathroom functions at all school buildings.
“The toilets could be flushed,” Dennis said.
“I got notified at 7:30 and we couldn’t make a plan for food on that short of notice,” Dennis said. The Alabama Department of Public Health requires functioning bathrooms for schools to be occupied.
Elmore County volleyball edges HORSESHOE BEND
By SAMUEL HIGGS Sports Editor
After a back-and-forth affair, Elmore County’s volleyball team came away with a road win Thursday night. Elmore County beat Horseshoe Bend, 3-1 (24-26, 25-22, 26-24, 25-17). The Panthers lost the first set, but clawed their way back by winning the next three in a row.
The Panther s blocking scheme presented the Generals with challenges for most of the night. Whenever the General looked to extend their lead or to get themselves back in the running, the Panther’s middle defenders Kayden Edwards and Robbie Bolton would send it right back.
“We've changed our blocking scheme over the last two years,” Elmore County coach
Kim Moncrief said. “This is the second year we're running a new type of blocking scheme. We were struggling with that last week, with getting it down, and I feel like tonight helped a lot with them getting that particular scheme working. Our middles did outstanding.”
These matches between Horseshoe Bend and Elmore County have always been close. Last year when the two teams faced off, Elmore County won all three sets by a narrow margin of victory. This plays a part in why Elmore County added them to its schedule right before area play.
“Horseshoe Bend has a great program,” Moncrief said. “We love coming and playing them because of that, because they're so tight. It helps build our mental toughness, getting us ready for area play. We start
area play next week, and I like the fact that we got into some battles and they were tight. It helps our girls learn how to handle that mentally on the court.”
The General saw major contributions from their seniors Jacey Johnson, Greenleigh Key and Cara Johnson. Although the last three sets escaped them, head coach Hagan Whiteard saw a lot of promise from her girls even when they were faced with adversity.
“They're working harder, they're getting better at adjusting,” Whitard said. “They're doing a lot better in making those adjustments, and it's in those tight situations you can see them doing that. I'm very proud of them for that because they're already growing as a team just two games into this season.”
However, what Whiteard
wants to improve upon for the rest of the season is camaraderie in those tight situations like they faced Thursday
“We definitely need to work on that cohesiveness,” Whiteard said. “Working on building that together moving forward and continuing to be supportive of one another. We will continue to work on the little things for the big picture, but we're making progress.”
Although still early in the 2024 season, the experience of playing a close best-of-five set will help both teams going forward.
“This was our first three out of five that we've had this season,” Moncrief said. “So for sure, that experience of playing one, getting down a set, having a battle back, mentally and physically, making adjustments, that'll help us in area play.”
SAMUEL HIGGS | TPI
Two Elmore County volleyball players go up to block a spike from Horseshoe Bend.
‘Small town celebrity’
Wilson values time back home
By MELODY RATHEL Multimedia Reporter
No matter how far you go, you’ll always find your roots back home.
This remains true for country artist Chad Wilson. Wilson is an award winning singer, touring artist but ulti-
mately, an Alexander City native. In 2022, Wilson was named Male Country Vocalist of the year in the Josie Awards, a country music award highlighting independent artists. He’s been in the industry for over 30 years, and he’s seen how it’s
changed over the last three decades.
“Everything post-COVID, it’s a whole new world,” Wilson said. “Some of us pivoted, and I’ve put more effort into my songwriting, and that’s blessed me.”
See WILSON, Page E2
DINNER ON THE SQUARE SHOWCASES THE TASTES OF DADEVILLE
By ABIGAIL MURPHY Multimedia Reporter
The newest spot for foodies might just be the Dadeville Square. In observance of Alabama’s Restaurant Week, Lake Martin Dadeville Area Chamber and Lake Martin Tallapoosa County Tourism hosted Dinner on the Square the evening of Aug. 20. Spearheader Rhonda Gaskins said the desire was to bring a signature event to Dadeville showcasing the eats around the square. And
the community answered the call with 180 tickets being sold in just 11 days. The event included four courses with stops all around the square. The first stop was Zazu’s Verandah for attendees to check-in and have an evening drink. The second stop was outside The Funky Goat with Caesar and summer salads on the menu. The third stop was Camellia Cafe serving up shrimp and grits appetizers. Next, attendees headed over to Miller’s on Broadnax for a steak or chicken dinner.
Everyone then returned to Zazu’s for desserts by The Grand Bakery.
“The restaurants were super happy to participate,” Gaskins said. “We have been meeting now for four months. They have been really excited about this. Because our focus, with the chamber, is how do we get more eyes downtown? How do we get patrons to our members? With the revitalization that we have been doing downtown, it just made sense for our folks to be on the square for this event.”
ABIGAIL MURPHY | TPI
TOP: Miller’s on Broadnax was the fourth stop during the Dinner on the Square event for the main entree.
ABOVE: The final stop for the evening was a return to Zazu’s with The Grand Bakery serving desserts.
BELOW: The Funky Goat was the second stop during the Dinner on the Square event.
LEFT: Zazu’s Verandah was the attendees first stop for the Dinner on the Square for drinks.
By ADRIAN BUSH For TPI
By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
Two Alabama cities have a history with cot
ton that traces back more than a century. John Emerald, a locally made whiskey, is distilled and aged in some of Opelika’s old cotton warehouses. The distillery recently brought Alabama’s first legal whiskey since Prohibition to another cotton town — Wetumpka. Jimmy Sharp co-founded John Emerald in 2014 along with his father John. Sharp is also the head distiller and brought the company’s whiskeys, vodkas and liqueurs to the Coosa Clever for a tasting.
“If we can get in people’s mouths, they tend to like it,” Sharp said. “They get excited about it. It’s encouraging.”
Sharp is especially proud of the company’s namesake John Emerald, not just because it is named after his ancestors, but because it is a line that includes several whiskeys. They are a true Alabama product.
“Anything with animals on the John Emerald product label is an indication we make from ground to glass,” Sharp said. “Not only are we distilling it and aging it in house, we are getting
the ingredients from local farms.”
First to market is the company’s Single Malt Whiskey. It is created from 100% malted barley, as per the U.S. Whiskey industry standard. But unlike its Scottish counterpart, it has no peat; however, it does include a portion of barley smoked with peach and pecan wood.
“It’s not heavy on the smokey flavor,” Sharp said. “The peat brings a heavy smokiness to it.”
It’s the company’s most popular and has been awarded several international awards in the whiskey industry.
It is also catching on in private liquor stores especially in Tennessee, according to Sharp. Sharp is also proud of the company’s Purveyor’s Series, especially the Double Oak Bourbon. The series is made from distillate that Sharp and his father sourced and shipped to Opelika from out of state. It is then blended and aged in Opelika. It is popular with buyers.
According to Sharp, alcohol shipper Tipsy had a contest for its customers.
“Our bourbon won best value bourbon,” Sharp said. “The goal
MELODY RATHEL TPI Chad Wilson enjoys his a break from touring while performing at Lake Martin Brewhaus in his hometown.
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Lucky Flight brings the world to your glass
By ABIGAIL MURPHY Multimedia Reporter
Lucky Flight Bottle Shoppe hosts all kinds of events at its location down Highway 49.
This wine room offers live music, wine tastings, pop-up shops events and more. Owner Annie Lee said they started the wine tasting because a lot of times distributors want to showcase new products.
The wine tastings allow the distributors to exhibit the wines directly to customers. In return, Lucky Flight can see what wines customers are most interested in and stock some in the wine room.
The tastings are generally held on Thursdays from 4:30-6:30 p.m. and cost $5 to taste five to six wines. For those who find
a wine they especially enjoy that evening, Lucky Flight offers a discount for bottles purchased during the tasting.
“I want to do fun things like that,” Lee said. “Give you something to do and call your girlfriends, everybody can join you and come out for a night on the town.”
During the summer, Lucky Flight Bottle Shoppe hosted live music events on Friday nights generally from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Lee said the live music events started because her friend, Dean Sheffield, played opening weekend and Lucky Flight got such great feedback the live music continued. With the transition into winter, the wine room will have less regular live music events. However,
the off-season will bring more pop-up shop events. In the past, Lucky Flight had Auburn Oil Company Booksellers do a pop-up shop for a wine and book event.
Lee said she hopes to work with them in the future and do a pop-up shop with Kingfisher Leatherworks as well, which has all kinds of leather made bags. Another possible event in the future is a one-on-one wine class.
“I think in the fall, that’ll be our time with the locals, especially, to give you something to do indoors,” Lee said. “And try something new, which is our motto — that’s the point of the wine dispensers to try something different, get out of your comfort zone.”
the food vendor at the event and their famed BBQ and burgers are sure to satiate, satisfying any hunger or thirst you may have. Those craving sweet treats to cool down with can look forward to Sno Biz and gelato.
Guests are encouraged to relax and enjoy the music provided by some of the finest bluegrass bands in the area. Bands from various parts of Alabama will play on a rotation throughout the night. Blue Heart, Ancient Tones and Iron Horse Bluegrass will provide a variety of music at the event.
Fortunately for the audience, attendees will get multiple chances to hear the bands throughout the day, as they will be on a rotation.
Attendees can expect to see a wide range of goods from handmade jewelry and pottery to wreaths, bows, customized wooden plaques, and more. Snacks like roasted and boiled peanuts will be offered and, while many vendors will accept credit cards, some may only accept cash.
The festival is more than just a day of music, fun and great food. It is a vital fundraiser for the Titus Community Center, whose historic building is over 100 years old. It was once a schoolhouse, featuring three school rooms that covered nine grades of classes. Folks who need a break from the heat are encouraged to step into the newly restored Community Center building for some AC and indoor bathrooms. While there, walk through and see new tables and chairs, fresh paint and a refurbished wood floor. The center hosts such events as family reunions, baby showers, birthday parties and other events.
The festival was originally borne out of a need for funds, but it quickly grew into an annual celebration of bluegrass and community. This is evident in the festival’s enduring tradition, having only missed one year, due to COVID, since its inception.
T-shirts to commemorate the event will be sold, while they last — you can snag your own for $20. Please note that pets, alcohol, coolers and guns are not allowed at the event, ensuring a safe and family-friendly environment. We hope you can make it out for a relaxing, fun and memorable day at the 24th Annual Titus Bluegrass Festival on September 28.
By MELODY RATHEL Multimedia Reporter
Bourbon, at about $30 per bottle, was competing bottles of all prices.
when we did it was to be able to afford to get it to market. We wanted to make something that out-kicked its coverage on price point. We feel that we did that.”
The contest made no difference in price points and the Double Oak
WILSON Continued from E1
“They don’t distinguish between price points,” Sharp said.
The Double Oak has also won two gold medals in international whiskey competitions.
The company is growing. It has made approximately 30,000 bottles of whiskey, vodka and
Wilson has traveled all over the world and performed in front of household names of country music — he’s no stranger to the Grand Ole Opry stage in Nashville. Despite his experience under major stage lights, he finds there’s no audience like one full of familiar faces.
“I haven’t slept in my own bed but one night in the past three months.” Wilson said. “I
liqueurs at its Opelika facility. John Emerald is in the process of expanding into another Opelika cotton warehouse. It will give the distillery space to age more barrels distillate.
The company is also moving from 15 gallon American white oak barrels to 53 gallon barrels allowing more production. But it has been a
come here to be with my family. I come home to get grounded. I get to running fast, and I have to come home and see my family.”
In the last year, Wilson has spent a few months traveling throughout Brazil, doing shows in Dallas and visiting his two daughters in Louisville. Despite his love for performing, being home in Alex City reminds him where his roots really are.
“It’s amazing,” Wilson said of being home. “You lose a little bit of yourself when you’re
learning curve. John Emerald currently ages its whiskies at least two years in the small barrels and at least four years in the larger barrels. This time is shorter than whiskey made further north, but doesn’t mean the quality is any less.
“The small barrels speed up the process a lot because the surface area contact is greater,”
out there, just running so fast. For me, it’s good for my soul. It reminds me of who I am, what my goals are in life.”
Wilson is no stranger to the music industry. For as long as he can remember, his family has surrounded him with music in various ways.
“Most of my family sings,” he said. “They had a very successful quartet.”
When Wilson first got his start as a trailblazer in country music, he and his brother Kyle took the country music indus-
Sharp said. “The heat in Alabama is a much bigger factor than the size of the barrel. It makes the molecules move around more, things happen faster. The heat requires less time in the barrel.”
The company’s liqueurs and vodka’s also follow similar naming practices at the original line — named
try by storm. For years, the brothers toured together until the COVID-19 changed their dynamic.
“I have played with a band, maybe, twice since COVID,” Wilson said. “It was what we were known for.”
Now, he sometimes performs with long-time musical partners such as Jason Tapley. Tapley has worked alongside Wilson for many productions, including a remix of Wilson’s song, “A Little Love.” Tapley said he and Wilson
for ancestors. The vodka is named after Sharp’s grandmother. It’s a heritage that led Sharp to creating John Emerald. He discovered he is Scottish.
“You can’t learn about Scotland without learning about Scotch,” Sharp said. “I got into whiskies that way. It evolved into getting into bourbons.”
grew up visiting church after church following their family of musicians.
“That’s where we learned everything,” Tapley said. “We started all together, and we kind of went our own ways, but Chad always had a way of coming back and bringing us all together.”
Over the years, Wilson has shown his appreciation for his hometown by filming music videos in downtown Alex City and headlining major events in the city.
COTTON
SUBMITTED
RAVON ‘STEELY’ COMES TO DADEVILLE FOR MARGARITAVILLE TRIBUTE
By ABIGAIL MURPHY Multimedia Reporter
Martin’s at Lake Martin was filled with the sounds of Reggae music with Ravon “Steely” Rhoden taking the stage.
As a tribute to Jimmy Buffett, who died Sept. 1 last year, Martin’s invited Rhoden to play, blending Reggae-style with Buffett classics, as part of its Mar-
garitaville Festival on Aug.
30. Rhoden is originally from Montego Bay, Jamaica, and has been stateside for the past several years.
Although a singer, he plays mainly the steel drums and regular drums, but in the genre of Reggae. He got started in steel drums about 20 years ago after hearing a steel drum band play following the church service in his neigh-
borhood.
“For a couple hours, the whole neighborhood, you can hear them practicing all kinds of songs,” Rhoden said. “I can’t remember what pushed me to get over there that day particularly. I was just watching everything, and they got done, taking a break. And me and some other younger ones, I was about 11 or 12 years old, were peeking
around the drums and they had a blackboard with all the scales on it. We were just following the notes, and I realized I was really quick with it. (One of the musicians) heard us and he said, ‘hey man come back,’ so every Sunday since that point we practiced and that was my start in music.”
Music is also what brought Rhoden to America. Before he started living
here, he would travel on cruise ships and play his music. After about six years, he decided to set up home in Florida and travel by land to do performances. As a solo act Rhoden does vocals and steel drums, but he is also part of a band and is a songwriter as a Reggae artist.
“I have a few albums out there already,” he said.
“I’m working on a new one. The title of it is called ‘Awakening’ because it’s conscious music. (People) may listen to it and go, ‘oh he’s been through all of that, how did he get out?’ and then a line hits you so it’s kind of like an awakening.”
Individuals can find out more about Rhoden and his music on his website Ravonrhoden.com.
PHOTOS BY ABIGAIL MURPHY TPI Ravon ‘Steely’ Rhoden takes the stage for Margaritaville tribute at Martin’s at Lake Martin last weekend.
Little Rippy’s offers a panini for everyone
By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor, Elmore County
For this month’s food spotlight, I made a quick stop in Eclectic on my way to Elmore County and Tallassee’s football game on Friday night.
I was recommended a nice hangout joint by the name of Little Rippy’s, which mostly serves sandwiches and chicken salad and such.
I’m not the biggest chicken salad fan — especially with craisins, grapes, apples and tomatoes. So I stuck with what I knew I would like and ordered the ham, bacon and cheese panini. The cost for the sandwich was $9.75, and it came with a bag of chips. I grabbed some Harvest Cheddar SunChips. I also ordered a bottle of Root Beer separately.
For anyone looking for a quick bite to eat, this is the place for them. My panini was pressed to perfection and the bread was the winner. It was perfectly crunchy mixed with soft, and the bottom of
the panini was buttered so well that it stole the show from the panini-pressed top piece of bread. Inside the
being pressed, I assumed my
But
wasn’t, and
sandwich in little chunks with an odd texture.
It still tasted great and worked with the sandwich, but it did throw me off a little bit. The meat, however, was great. Nothing needs to be said about the ham, but I liked how much bacon was on the sandwich. There were four total pieces of bacon on it, and they were spread out to where you got a little bit of bacon in every bite. For just $10, it was well worth the trip and money. Sandwiches weren’t the only thing that they offered. Next to the counter was a full ice cream station with a handful of flavors — at least one kind that anyone would like. But in case someone didn’t like those flavors, there was a cooler of Frios popsicles next to it. I enjoyed my stop, and it wasn’t very heavy at all. That was especially nice, since I went on to spend the next few hours in the heat covering a football game.
Coosa River Craft House serves up great selection
By SAMUEL HIGGS
Sports Editor
To commemorate the best time of the year, I did what I know best and enjoyed the first week of the college football season with a beer in my hand. I traveled to Wetumpka and sat down at Coosa River Craft House to see what was on the menu.
I did my best to scan through the list of beers they had on tap, but I’m not a snob when it comes to the beer I drink, so I enlisted the help of the bartender to help me make a decision. I sampled four drinks before settling down on the Bankhead Mango Guava by the Black Warrior Brewing Company.
The bartender told me the craft house consistently cycles through different beers on tap. It is encouraging to know the
next time I visit there will be something new to taste rather than pick through the same menu.
Usually when I go the IPA route, I tend to lean in the sour or cider area because I’m not a fan of some of the weird aftertastes I get from IPAs. When sipping on the Bankhead Mango Guava it was the perfect beer for me — no aftertaste, very refreshing and overall very flavorful. There was a hint of the fruity flavors infused in the drink, but nothing overpowering to the point where it felt like I was drinking juice. Considering how many choices there were on tap there were other routes I could have taken, but I still enjoyed my drink.
Some of the drinks that caught my eye were the Kaleidoscope, the Bravazzi Sour
and the Hi-Wire Margarita Sour. So the next time I make the drive to Wetumpka those will be on the top of my list to try next.
The atmosphere at the Coosa River Craft House was extremely comforting, filled with TVs across the entire bar that had college football games happening across the country. There would be times when I’d turn my head in several directions to consume as much football as my heart desired.
After talking football with the patrons of the bar I closed my tab which came out to a little over $7. This was a place where I could easily see myself spending the entire day, especially when football is on. I had a great time there and definitely see myself coming back in the future to see what else they have in store, particularly for some live music.
sandwich was cheddar cheese with ham and
DALTON MIDDLETON TPI
September’s Food Spotlight features a ham, bacon and cheese panini from Little Rippy’s in Eclectic. Also included was a bag of Harvest Cheddar Sun Chips.
SAMUEL HIGGS TPI
The Bankhead Mango Guava from Coosa River Craft House in Wetumpka.