By
A
TRAFFIC STOP LEADS TO DRUG SEIZURE
By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
said. Blek is commonly brought
sniff around vehicles. Officers located two
Just the day before, Thornton, 60, of Tallassee is alleged to have kidnapped his wife from their Freeman Avenue home in east Tallassee.
Governor announces EDA funding Tallassee and others
More than $7.2 million in new Growing Alabama funding was given to four economic development organizations across the state, including almost $800,000 for Tallassee to accelerate the development of industrial and agricultural center sites. These funds are designed to boost site readiness, a critical factor in attracting new industries and supporting business expansions in Alabama. The communities
packages of methamphetamine weighing about two kilograms. Luis Uribe-Cruz, 26, of Hobbs, New Mexico, and Bernardino Cuicahua, 38, were taken into custody and charged with drug trafficking. They were transported to the Elmore County Jail where they are being held without bond. They are also
being held for Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
“We are grateful for and appreciate all the support we get from citizens,” Buce said. “We will continue to dedicate time, manpower and resources to making sure Tallassee is safer for everyone.”
EVENTFUL HOMECOMING FOR THS SENIOR CLASS PRESIDENT
By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
Almost everyone at Tallassee High School knows Amari Parker.
part. It wasn’t just the senior class or the high school.”
See GOVERNOR, Page A5 See AES, Page A5
He is the senior class president, a drum major with the Pride of Tallassee Marching Band and community leader. He was also named homecoming king Friday.
Parker joined his friends of the Class of 2025 on Thursday night for the annual candlelight ceremony and bonfire. Soon after, the Class of 2005 and underclassmen joined the seniors as they rolled King Street, the Tallassee Police Department and parts of downtown in a show of camaraderie. Then Parker led efforts to clean up the remaining toilet paper Sunday afternoon.
“It’s really fun to be able to do these things and being able to help the community,” Parker said Sunday afternoon. “I saw people of all ages taking
The Thursday night events brought hundreds of people together. Toddlers and retirees alike made memories thanks to a few hundred rolls of toilet paper after a bonfire.
Officers of the Tallassee Police Department were on hand to make sure students didn’t get too carried away. The school resource officers even got rolled then started to help clean up the toilet paper.
Sunday, Parker was joined by other classmates and members of the community, many of whom took part in the Thursday night events.
“I think it’s a good tradition that we do every year,” Parker said. “I think that everyone is like waiting for homecoming every year, just for everyone to come back and get together to
roll King Street and the downtown area. It’s very fun and family oriented. It’s everybody getting together and having fun.” Parker believes the events show how special the homecoming events at Tallassee High School are.
“I think it shows a connection between younger people and older people,” Parker said. “It connects all
SUBMITTED TPI Tallassee Police Department K9 Blek poses with two kilograms of methamphetamines he helped find during a recent traffic stop
PHOTO BY CLIFF WILLIAMS | TPI
Tallassee High School senior Amari Parker was named homecoming king at the Friday pep rally.
By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
WILLIAMS TPI
CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
Obituaries
OBED CORNELIUS MANNING
Mr. Obed Cornelius Manning, Sr. a resident of Kent, Alabama, passed away Tuesday, October 22, 2024, at the age of 88. He was born in Tallapoosa County, Alabama, August 31, 1936, to John David and Mary Linnes Nelson Manning.
Mr. Manning is survived by his sons, Neal Manning and Ben Manning (Jennifer); daughter, Maria Oakley; brother, James Manning (Jan); grandchildren, Morgan Johnson (Kyle), Brittany Hayko, Wayne
Myhill (Marley), Ahna Manning (Matt), Benjamin Manning (Erin), Dalaney Myhill and Chris Trout and five great grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his wife of 51 years, Martha Mann Manning; parents, J.D. and Mary Manning; sister, Mary Ruth Hall; brothers, Gerald Manning, Joel Manning and Alfred Manning.
Mr. Manning retired from the Montgomery Fire Department after twenty years of service. He was known for his ability to restore pia-
nos and organs. Obed was a member of Providence Primitive Baptist Church for many years.
The family will receive friends Saturday, October 26, 2024, from 10:00AM until service time at 11:00AM at Jeffcoat Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Providence Primitive Baptist Church Cemetery. Online condolences are available at www.jeffcoatfuneralhome.com.
Jeffcoat Funeral Home Directing Tallassee, Alabama
Search warrants lead to drug arrests
By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
Two separate search warrants led to the arrest of two Tallassee residents — one in Elmore County and the other in Tallapoosa County.
After an investigation, the Tallassee Police Department was joined by the Elmore County Sheriff’s Office and the DEA to search homes
Police Reports
TALLASSEE POLICE DEPARTMENT
OCT. 27
on South McKenzie and Wall streets with warrants.
“Officers located multiple firearms and large
• Reckless driving was reported on Riverknoll Road and Washington Street.
• An assault was reported on South Tallassee Drive.
• A welfare check was conducted on Floyd Lane.
OCT. 26
• Assistance was given to another agency on Highway 229.
• A Hispanic male was arrested on U.S. Highway 231.
• Menacing was reported on Jordan Avenue.
• A welfare check was conducted on Kent Road and Upper River Road.
• Theft was reported on Upper River Road.
• A welfare check was conducted on Gilmer Avenue and Dolan Road.
• Assistance was given to a motorist on Gilmer Avenue, Notasulga Road and Riverhills Court.
• Livestock was reported in the roadway on Little Road.
• A Black male was arrested on U.S. Highway 231.
• A domestic dispute was reported on Gilmer Avenue.
OCT. 25
• Assistance was given to another agency on Shady Lane.
• Debris was reported in the roadway on Main Street.
• Criminal mischief was reported on Gilmer Avenue.
• A Black male was arrested on Jordan Avenue.
• Animal control was requested on Gilmer Avenue.
• Assistance was given to a motorist on Gilmer Avenue.
• Harassment was reported on West Patton Street.
• A stolen vehicle was reported
in Tallassee.
quantities of marijuana and crack,” Tallassee police chief Todd Buce said. “Some of it was ready for sale.”
At the South McKenzie Street location, Antoine Morris, 39, of Tallassee, was taken into custody and charged with possession of an altered firearm, unlawful possession of a controlled substance and first-degree possession of marijuana. At the Wall Street location, RaJahn Denmark, 31, was taken into custody and charged with drug trafficking. He was taken to the Tallapoosa County Jail and has a $75,000 bond available to him.
• Assistance was given to a motorist on Friendship Road.
OCT. 24
• A juvenile complaint was reported on Whatley Drive.
• Reckless driving was reported on Camellia Drive.
• Debris was reported in the roadway on West Butler Street.
• A civil disturbance was reported on West James Street.
• A noise complaint was reported on Charles CC Blalock Street.
• A noise complaint was reported on Elm Street.
• Assistance was given to a motorist on Oak Heights Road.
• A domestic incident was reported on Paxton Drive.
OCT. 23
• A juvenile complaint was reported on Barnett Boulevard.
• A noise complaint was reported on Ashurst Avenue.
• A juvenile complaint was reported on Barnett Boulevard.
• Theft was reported on Little Road.
• An animal complaint was reported on Gilmer Avenue.
• Assistance was given to a motorist on Camellia Drive.
• A motor vehicle accident with no injuries was reported on Gilmer Avenue. OCT. 22
• Suspicious activity was reported on Whatley Drive.
• Debris was reported in the roadway on Notasulga Road
• Fraud was reported on Barnett Boulevard.
• Harassment was reported on Muskogee Trail.
• Assistance was given during a medical call on Barnett Boulevard.
• Assistance was given to a motorist on Notasulga Road.
• A Black male was arrested on Wall Street.
• A Black male was arrested on
Buce said multi-agency task force operations will continue in Tallassee to target known criminal elements.
South McKenzie Street.
• Suspicious activity was reported on Dorman Avenue. OCT. 21
• Assistance was given to a citizen on Truman Street.
• A juvenile complaint was reported on Gilmer Avenue.
• A noise complaint was reported on Riverside Avenue.
• Suspicious activity was reported on Ice Plant Road.
• A noise complaint was reported on Camellia Drive and Elm Street.
• A welfare check was conducted on Caldwell Street.
• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Little John Drive.
• Theft was reported on Jordan Avenue and Main Street.
• A private property accident was reported on Jordan Avenue.
• A motor vehicle accident with injuries was reported on Lily Avenue.
• Debris was reported in the roadway on Gilmer Avenue.
• Identity theft was reported on North Johnson Street.
• Littering was reported on Mooney Hollow Court.
• Assistance was given to a citizen on West Patton Street.
• Assistance was given to a motorist on Gilmer Avenue.
• A juvenile complaint was reported on Central Boulevard.
• Gunfire was reported on South Wesson Street.
OCT. 20
• Gunfire was reported on East Patton Street.
• Criminal mischief was reported on South Tallassee Drive.
• A noise complaint was reported on East Patton Drive.
• A child custody dispute was reported on Greenwood Road.
• Assistance was given to a motorist on Gilmer Avenue.
DENMARK MORRIS
Humane Society of Elmore County News
Halloween safety for pets
By REA CORD HSEC Executive Director
This is Halloween week which means lots of fun for us humans but with quite a few risks to our pets. Candy, scary costumes, glowing items, parties, screaming children & adults are all things that our pets may not understand and that can lead to trouble.
When it comes to candy please be aware that chocolate and the artificial sweetener Xylitol, found in many candies, can be toxic to pets not to mention the danger from swallowed candy wrappers & lollipop sticks! Please keep all candies safely out of reach of your pets and don’t leave pets unattended with a big bowl of candy at the front door. Make sure your children are aware that their Halloween Candy should NOT be shared with pets. Perhaps make a special pet bowl with small doggy or kitty treats that your children can safely share with them as they have their own treats.
Glow sticks and rings help our children be more visible but best kept out of reach of pets as the contents are very bitter and could cause distress to your pet if chewed. Wild and fun costumes are part of the holiday, but our pets may not feel the same way and could become scared of even protective so best to keep your pets safely apart from humans in odd and scary costumes. Keeping them separate from
party antics will also help protect them from being fed inappropriate food, treats and candy by kind, but uninformed party guests.
Some pets are fine wearing a costume while others find it quite stressful. If you do dress up your pet, make sure the costume doesn’t constrict its movement, hearing or breathing. Never leave a pet wearing a costume unattended and also check to make sure there are no dangling pieces that your pet could get caught in or chew on. And if your pet seems distressed then please don’t force your pet to stay in a costume.
Please also keep your pets in another room or part of the house if you are opening your door for trick-or-treaters! It would be easy for a pet to escape and we certainly don’t want a pet to be freaked out by scores of children in all manner of costumes resulting in either a lost pet or, worse, a bite. And make sure pets and ‘candle lit’ Halloween decorations are not left alone to help prevent them being knocked over and an accidental fire!
And just to be safe, make sure your pet is properly identified (microchip, collar and ID tag) in case it does escape through an open door while you’re distracted with trick-or-treaters.
Happy Halloween!
Rea Cord is the executive director of the Humane Society of Elmore County.
Pet of the Week - Jimbo
Jimbo is a 1-year-old male Pit Bull Terrier mix who weighs only about 40 pounds. He came in to us as a stray along with a puppy and a small adult dog and none were ever reclaimed. Jimbo is happy, playful and he’s just a very sweet boy who loves attention. Let’s find Jimbo a family he can call his own for the rest of his life.
The Humane Society of El-
Local student begins journey to become medical professional
By ABIGAIL MURPHY Multimedia Reporter
Healthcare needs are high in Alabama and one student wants to be a part of the solution.
Reeltown senior Megan Giles is already following her passion, and this summer she was selected to be part of the University of Alabama’s Rural Health Scholars Program.
This five-week program takes place on UA’s campus with opportunities to take classes, tour medical facilities and learn about the healthcare needs in the state.
Through the program, Giles took courses on chemistry and creative writing as well as toured facilities and universities, explored graduate programs and made connections with those in the medical industry.
“I got to meet so many great people and it really helped me decide, ‘Yes this is what I want to do; this is where I belong,’”
Giles said.
Giles applied for the program because she wanted to be exposed to different aspects of the medical field and see if it’s something she wants to pursue. It
also helped her narrow down what specialties she’s interested in.
Giles said she went from probably 12 possible career paths down to two.
Giles hopes to go into gynecology or primary care. She said gynecology is what she loves, but she knows there’s a strong need for more primary care physicians in the state.
Giles said there’s such a range of medical needs from more urban areas like Birmingham’s UAB to the more rural parts of Alabama, where there may be a sole hospital serving three counties.
“Even though the cities themselves may not be considered rural,” Giles said, “the healthcare that’s provided to them is considered rural because maybe they don’t have as much access to affordable healthcare or maybe they only have one or two physicians in their county.”
Giles said she highly recommends applying for the program if someone has any interest in the medical field. The connections you make are amazing, Giles said, and she is still in contact with some of her counselors
more 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 Jimbo 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 334567-3377 and the website is www.elmorehumane.org.
from the program.
Plus, the scholars program is just the beginning. Participants will have access to summer classes through UA regardless of their university to aid them in their degree process.
Giles said she is very thankful to RHS counselor Allison Rodgers, who introduced her to the program. The application process involves ACT scores,
high school transcripts, leadership positions and information on if you are a HOSA member.
As Giles finishes up her senior year, she is busy as the marching band captain. She is also in the concert band, is an active Beta Club member, is planning to continue with FCCLA, is active in her church and was in Junior Leadership Lake Martin.
Help these shelter pets find their furever homes.
ABIGAIL MURPHY TPI
Reeltown High School principal Audrey Stockdale, left, presents a certificate to Reeltown student Megan Giles at the recent board meeting.
Halloween is the best holiday, it’s deeper than you think
Iknow, but what about Christmas? Christmas is good too. It is the birth of our Savior — clearly if we were tier-ranking the importance of holidays that would be at the top alongside Easter.
But speaking to the secular celebration of Halloween and Christmas, Halloween is the best holiday and there’s more to it than what meets the eye, if you are willing to take it there.
Growing up, Halloween was a time to spend with my mom. (Don’t worry she’s still alive, that’s not where this is going). We would get the fake cobwebs and stretch them over the bushes and doorway. We would bring down the tombstones, raven statues and pumpkin figurines from the attic.
There were costumes, passing out candy and my school would have a big Halloween Carnival every year. While I did spend a lot of time with my friends too during Halloween, my mom was the one who made Halloween feel just as magical as Christmas. I miss home the most during October and I think that’s part of the reason. While I get to spend Christmas with my mom, I really miss getting to spend Halloween with her too.
And Halloween is deeper than most people give it credit for. I’m Catholic and the two times (during the liturgical year) that it feels like a time of reflection are the days from Halloween to All Souls Day and the other is Advent. It probably should be Lent too, but I don’t know; the vibes are different. I like to use that period of Halloween-All Souls
See HOLIDAY, Page A5
This isn’t going to be your typical run-of-the-mill voting column. By now, everyone knows how important it is to vote. Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 5, and voting registration is already past. It’s time to do our civic duty and get out to the polls.
This column isn’t going to be about who you should vote for either.
Again, I figure at this point, everyone has made up their minds one way or the other and a few words won’t sway someone in a different direction. Instead, this column is going to be simply about this: Don’t vote independent this year in the presidential election. This year is too important to waste your vote, and unfortu -
LIZI GWIN Managing Editor
the email. Announcements will appear within 10 days in The Tribune, The Herald or The Observer.
This is the most important column you will ever read about the most important election in the history of the world.
OK, maybe that’s a little much. But do you ever feel like the radio, the television, or the YouTube is shouting at you? Even the most innocent social media user cannot escape the constant attack of our polarized, politicized culture.
“Beware of a wolf in sheep’s clothing,” the posts say Depending on whose social media pages you’re scrolling, you may see Donald Trump or Kamala Harris with pictures that may or may not be real –some are doctored, cropped, edited, or even made with A.I. You will also, depending on whose social media pages you’re scrolling through, read or hear snippets or quotes that have been manipulated to mean one thing or another. There are thousands of memes going around, from Donald Trump repairing the ice cream machine at McDonalds to Kamala Harris with glowing red eyes and a pair of horns sprouting from her head. They are about as real as this column being written by ChatGPT.
I suppose it’s been going on since the beginning of time. And by that, I mean the devil shows up and says what you want to hear rather than the truth.
Next week, we will finally reach the end of what has definitely been the most interesting political era in our lifetime. Donald Trump, the thrice-married casino owner and reality television host who became President, blasted through what remained of the old Republican party and made it his own over the past year, becoming ever stronger despite assassination attempts and nearly every personal and political trial. And by trial, I mean that literally! It seems like he is always in court for one reason or another. We live in an area that is unabashedly Trump country. I never saw it coming. We are a state that refuses to legalize gambling and frowns upon people using profanity, yet the casino-owning Trump cusses like a sailor at his rallies and still manages to make money off Holy Bibles that he autographs as if he wrote them. As a Christian, I am shocked
nately, that’s what voting independent is doing.
I’ve made the mistake before. I voted independent in the 2016 election back when I was living in Pennsylvania, and I’ll never do it again.
I’m not necessarily saying one vote — my vote — would’ve made the difference, but if no one voted independent, it certainly would have.
It’s an unfortunate system we live under. The fact that only two candidates are up for arguably the most important
job in the world is a little bit ridiculous, but the fact remains: Donald Trump or Kamala Har ris will be the next president of the United States. No matter how many people think they can change the system, it’s not going to happen — at least not this year.
Instead of voting independent and thinking you got something over on someone by not voting for Trump or Harris, do your part and vote intelligently. ing as much information as possible — and from reliable sources — before you make an informed vote for either Trump or Harris.
that people like Franklin Graham will purchase infomercial time on TV to make excuses for this behavior. As someone at church once said to me, “I ain’t votin’ for my Sunday School teacher, I’m votin’ for the man who will make things right.”
We are also witnessing the end of an era in American politics. Joe Biden has been on the scene in Washington for over 50 years. He was an old school Democrat of the union laborer-school teacher variety. His Presidency was sort of a reset back to the center for Democrats, who had leaned so far to the left in the postObama period. Biden probably would have been fine had he taken the Presidency immediately following President Barack Obama, but he sat it out because the party decided it was Hillary Clinton’s turn. And so, when President Biden took office, Americans had a chance to witness his frailties on the job while his handlers worked the media and spun tales of his behind-the-scenes vigor. No matter how much good Biden had done in his long career, it all came crashing down with a debate performance that was one of the worst in recent memory. In the end, former Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi was the one who approached Biden and talked him into retiring for the betterment of the Party.
Which brings us to Kamala Harris, a historic candidate who found herself elevated to this position with only a few months to go before Election Day. Nobody could have prepared for the job so quickly, but Harris has done an amazing job and made a great VP pick in former schoolteacher and governor Tim Walz. Walz projects an Everyman quality that has been missing in our politics for some time. Harris also reached out to disaffected Republicans and actually has them out stumping and campaigning for, and with, her: nearly all of President Trump’s cabinet from his first time around, as well as members of the Cheney and Bush political dynasties have been on the road with Harris this fall. She also has the full backing of the still-powerful Clintons and Obamas. All that being said, my personal favorite event in all of this was the vice-presi -
dential debate between J.D. Vance and Tim Walz. These gentlemen behaved respectfully, even on points in which they disagreed – and often found themselves actually agreeing on certain subjects. It was everything a presidential debate should have been, instead of insults (Trump) and side eye (Harris). Pope Francis was approached by a reporter from CBS News recently and asked about his opinion on the 2024 Presidential race in the United States. He replied, “In political morality, it is generally said that not voting is ugly, it’s not good. One must vote. And one must choose the lesser evil. Which is the lesser evil? That lady or that gentleman? Both are against life: the one that throws out migrants and the one that kills children.”
On the issues of abortion and immigration, many in our Judeo-Christian culture see the poor treatment of the least among us as evil. Harris supports funding and legalization for abortion. But we cannot say that Harris, herself, is evil. We are challenged to know where Trump stands on this or anything, because he changes from day to day and we have no idea what he does or doesn’t stand for except his own right to do what he wants, even overthrow the government when he doesn’t win. And yet, it wouldn’t be fair to say Trump is evil. He has just used these particular issues to his political advantage.
We know who holds tomorrow. Everything will unfold as God wants it to. If you believe that as I do, then you will not allow the worries of the pot-stirrers online and on television to make your decision for you, or tell you that you are or are not a Christian if you vote a certain way This is your choice, and only yours. At the end of the day, people have fought, marched, and died for your right to vote. Please don’t sit this one out. Read about the party platforms and turn down the noise of the talking heads on YouTube and the cable news channels. Most of all, please do your duty on Tuesday and cast your vote.
Michael Bird works in the
at
ABIGAIL MURPHY Multimedia Reporter
managing editor for Tallapoosa Publishers Inc.
TALLASSEE HAS SPIRIT, YES THEY
Photos by CLIFF WILLIAMS / TPI
GENERATIONS CELEBRATE HOMECOMING IN TALLASSEE
All ages from the 5 year old to the retiree were involved in everything Tallassee High School homecoming last week. From rolling King Street and the Tallassee Police Department, to the homecoming pep rally, multiple generations came together to celebrate their connections through Tallassee High School. The Class of 2005 celebrated its 20th year reunion. As usual the returning class challenged the soon-to-be THS graduates to a little competition in the pep rally but all came together during the night for a candlelight ceremony, bonfire and rolling of King Street. fire
Embracing the other side of Pentecost
reetings from the corner of Bridge and Bridge! It is a lovely fall morning as I write this week’s column. Summer heat hasn’t gone away yet, but cooler mornings have returned.
One week from today, our nation will be at the beginning of a new chapter. November 5, 2024 has been rightfully identified as a monumental day in the history of our nation. Election day always bear witness to the differences of opinion amongst our citizenry, but this one feels different. November 6, 2024 will be the day we as a nation begin to live into the choices we made at the ballot box.
The second chapter of Acts of the Apostles features a biblical story most people
are somewhat familiar with.
Following the crucifixion, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, people gathered to worship and witness to the good news Jesus proclaimed. They gathered on Pentecost, the last day of the Feast of Weeks, to celebrate the end of the grain harvest.
The Holy Spirit descended upon all present. Tongues of fire inhabited every mouth. People spoke words they did not understand, and everyone heard the word of God in their native language. God spoke the same exact word to everyone present, regardless of any difference amongst them.
I don’t know about you, but at this point I have no earthly idea what the final outcome of the election will be. It might
be a close call or it might not. One thing is for certain. At least half of the voting population will not be happy with the results.
We have all heard this year’s presidential election described as a choice between the lesser of two evils. One of the things we as a nation can mostly agree on is that neither major party candidate represents anything close to a best person for the job. Are we actually in the position of doomed in either direction?
If we are relying on the person elected to right the wrongs of our nation, then yes, we are certainly doomed. If, on the other hand, we are we the people kind of people, we are not doomed. We can have hope for the future because the future
Tallassee Churches
depends on communal involvement and coming together for the greater good.
We know how to do that, by the way. There have been countless instances in recent years of the greatly diverse population of these United States coming together for a common purpose. Those instances simply do not draw the same ratings as the incidents of division, hatred, and violence, but I digress.
I have a proposition for ensuring that November 5, 2024 does not emerge as some new day of infamy. We as a nation to do not need to reduced to ashes in order to rise like a phoenix. We need to flip the script on Pentecost. What if the people of God living in our portion of the
REV. JONATHAN YARBORO Columnist
earthly kingdom spoke the exact same word to God? I propose that every registered voter find a quiet place to pray after casting their respective ballot. I suggest praying the words Jesus taught. This is not a Christian prayer, since it was drafted and presented by a practicing Jew. It is the prayer the one God sent into the world to be a human example for all instructed all to pray. How would God answer a communal outpouring of the same words? Let’s find out together.
Rev. Jonathan Yarboro is the Pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Wetumpka.
Austin Ellliot sports Editor austin.elliott@tallasseetribune.com
Reeltown’s Martin named to the 66th AHSAA North-South roster
By SAMUEL HIGGS Sports Reporter
The AHSAA announced the roster for the 66th annual North-South All-Star Football game last week with Reeltown’s Tae Martin being named as one of the receivers for the South squad.
The North Alabama commit has been a threat for Reeltown ever since he touched the field
as a sophomore at the safety position. Since then, Martin has blossomed into one of the best players in all of Alabama 2A football.
This year, Martin has continued to be one of the top defenders on the team accumulating 63 total tackles, two tackles for a loss and five interceptions. However, he is now getting recognized for his ability on the offensive side of the ball.
In 2024, Martin leads the team in receiving yards with 28 catches for 763 yards and 14 receiving touchdowns. He also added an additional 296 rushing yards and six touchdowns. Showcasing why he earned his selection to the All-Star team. Martin will be paired up alongside Opelika’s Jamari Miller, Montgomery Academy’s
HOLTVILLE, TALLASSEE
FACE OFF TO CLOSE OUT THE REGULAR SEASON
By SAMUEL HIGGS Sports Reporter
The final week of the regular season of the Alabama high school football season is upon us. Holtville and Tallassee both have punched their ticket to the postseason in two different ways. Tallassee goes into Friday as the Class 4A Region 3 champions for the first time since 2014, while Holtville secured the No. 4 seed with a win over Marbury.
Although the teams are in two different situations, Tallassee head coach Lawrence “L.A.” O’Neal knows Holtville’s 4-5 record does not indicate how strong of a team it is.
“We just have to really focus on us and get better as a team and not take Holtville’s team for granted,” O’Neal said. “Not look at the record and take them for granted, because they got a really good ball club despite what the record says.”
The offense charge for the Bulldogs is led by the two-headed backfield of Hunter Chavis and Daishaun Zeigler. The dynamic duo each provides two different skill sets to the field, Chavis is the more physical back and is best when he is in short-yardage situations while Zeigler has the athleticism to take any carry he has to the house.
“We were kind of expect-
ing that two-headed monster that they got in Chavis and Zeigler,” O’Neal said. “But both of them run the ball tough, so we are just looking to get a lot of hats around the ball and really, really gang tackle, because it’s hard to take those guys down one-on-one.”
However, Tallassee’s defense has been stout for the majority of the season. Through eight games the defense averages just a little over 18 points per game.
Holtville’s defense is another unit that has shown flashes through the entirety of the season due to the play of defensive ends Anthony Chunn and
Playoff Analysis
Who’s in and Who’s out
By SAMUEL HIGGS Sports Reporter
WETUMPKA:
Wetumpka punched its ticket to the playoffs last week with a win over Stanhope Elmore, which puts the team as the No. 3 seed behind Russell County and Pike Road. They have been able to string together five straight wins, after falling to both region foes in back-to-back weeks. Currently, the matchup for the Indians looks to be a road game at McAdory, a team that sits at 6-2 on the year and No. 2 in the 6A Region 4 bracket. Wetumpka still has one final challenge to end the season against non-region opponent Demopolis, but a win on Friday would extend the win streak to six straight and carry momentum into the playoffs.
Tallassee flag football gear up for the playoffs
By SAMUEL HIGGS Sports Reporter
In Tallassee’s first-ever flag football season, the girls have made their way to the top heading into the playoffs as the No. 1 seed, dominating everyone they’ve faced along the way.
The Tigers cemented their region title with a win over Booker T. Washington just a few weeks ago but further set themselves apart with a resounding 59-0 win over Loachapoka. The offense finally was able to get over the hump offensively.
“All year long, we’ve come out and we’ve had to punt the first couple of drives,” coach Pat Love said. “It’s just taken us a little bit to get going, but against Loachapoka we came out and we hit the first three passes in a row, we went right down the field, we started out hot. That was the first game that we have started out hot, and we started out a little bit better against Booker T. Washington the game before that. But it’s really good because getting into the tail end of our season, getting into the playoffs right here, we need to be clicking on all cylinders.”
The Tallassee defense also stepped up against Loachapoka, not only holding the opposition
to no points but also came away with two interceptions returned for a touchdown.
“They were in the right zone,” Love said.
“We played zone a lot and against Loachapoke and they stayed in the right zone. We didn’t burn any coverages, it was good to see him play that sharp.”
Similar to the boy football team, the girls also finished with the top seeding in their region heading into the playoffs next week.
The last regular season game on the schedule is against Marbury, but Tallassee is riding high not just into the last game but into the playoffs.
“Our girls work very hard, we’ve got better each game,” Love said.
“We’ve got a pretty good passing game, we’ve got a pretty good running game, and we played really good defense. Like I said, we’re gonna continue to get better. We’re working to get better, we’re gonna play some tough games in the playoffs. But, I mean, I think we got a chance to be there at the end.”
The season is coming to a close, but Tallassee will continue to improve and ride the hot hand on the offensive side of the ball while still playing their stout defense to make a deep playoff run.
Reeltown’s
Tae Martin (12) was named to the 66th annual North-South team.
Tallassee’s Kam Tate (8) and the team are ready for the playoffs.
Tallassee’s Jordan King (4) will one of the weapon on offense against Holtville.
Tallassee
Walker the standard for Wetumpka defense
By SAMUEL HIGGS
Sports Reporter
Wetumpka’s defense has been stout the entire 2024 season, and one of the reasons why it has been so dominant is because of linebacker Kelby Walker, the Elmore County Player of the Week.
The Indian defense faced the tough task of stopping the Mustangs’ prolific rushing attack last Friday night. Although without Class 6A leading rusher Arthur McQueen, Walker and the other Indian defenders held an offense that averaged nearly 350 rushing yards per game to just 159.
However, Wetumpka coach Bear Woods said Walker’s 14 total tackles, four tackles for a loss and two sack performance was actually one of his weakest performances all season.
“This is probably, from a grading standpoint, not to the level that he has played every week, and he’d be the first one to tell you that,” Woods said. “But with that, it shows you the level of impact that he has each and every game. He’s a ferocious tackler, ferocious competitor, relentless effort to the football and when you work hard, like he works for the last three years, watching him work here every offseason, and the intensity of which he works and conditions, you see results you have this season.”
Walker’s impact on the game is not limited to the defensive side of the ball, either. He is also a
monster on special teams and is often thrown in on offense for special packages as a lead blocker.
“What makes a kid special is what they do on special teams,” Woods said. “He also plays on offense for us. Some of our touchdowns these last couple games, is in a package that he’s involved in blocking. So he affects all three phases of football. He has blocked three kicks this year. In two years, he’s blocked 10 kicks. That’s unbelievable. I don’t know of anybody who’s done that. He’s in all three phases of our game plan. If there was a fourth phase of football, he’d be in that one too.”
This season for Walker has been record-breaking.
Although there is still one game left for Wetumpka, he has broken the single-season tackle record. In nine games, Walker has accumulated 143 total tackles, 28 for a loss and 10 sacks.
“He’s the standard,”
Woods said. “If everyone looks around we got a couple guys in that group who are all at that standard, but if we had to send one guy out to represent the team, win or lose, I think it would be almost unanimous. Our defensive end, Ethan Bailey, actually has broken the sack record this season. It’d be between those two guys.
But Kelby is the guy. I mean, he is leading. He is the tip of the spear of our football team.”
Wetumpka faces off against Demopolis in the final game of the season, Walker will look to lead
Wetumpka’s Kelby Walker finished with 14 tackles and two sacks against Stanhope last Friday.
the defense to another impressive showing while also furthering an already impressive season to new heights.
“It doesn’t matter, it’s whoever, whenever, anytime, anywhere, and we’re going to show up to play our standard of
SPORTS CALENDAR
football,” Woods said.
“Kelby would be the first one to tell you that he’s ready for this week. We ain’t worried about any-
thing after this Friday. We are living right now to prepare for Demopolis, which is a fantastic team.”
PLAYER OF THE WEEK
Final week of season is here
By SAMUEL HIGGS Sports Reporter
WETUMPKA (6-3)
VS. DEMOPOLIS (7-2)
THE PLAYERS
WETUMPKA: DL Ethan Bailey leads the team in sacks with 17 on the year. … WR Martez Wright has 30 catches for 579 receiving yards and 8 TDs. … RB Jimmy King has 148 carries for 1,153 rushing yards and 6 TDs.
FOUR DOWNS
Last week, Wetumpka beat Stanhope Elmore, 27-13; Demopolis beat Northside, 41-20.
Wetumpka’s defense allows 14.6 points per game.
Demopolis averages 32.4 points per game on offense. The all-time series is tied at 2-2 between Wetumpka and Demopolis.
NEXT UP: Wetumpka at McAdory; Demopolis hosts UMS-Wright.
ELMORE COUNTY (6-2)
VS. CHILTON COUNTY (2-7)
THE PLAYERS
ELMORE COUNTY: RB Eli Thames has 88 carries for 480 rushing yards and 4 TDs. … QB Gage Davis has completed 53 of 82 pass attempts for 519 passing yards throwing 4 TDs and 1 INT. … LB Jackson Mann leads the team in total tackles with 54 on the season.
FOUR DOWNS
Last week, Elmore County beat Sylacuaga, 37-7; Chilton
TALLASSEE
Continued from B1
County lost to Spain Park, 37-6. Elmore County’s defense allows 15.6 points per game. Chilton County’s defense allows 34.4 points per game. Chilton County leads in alltime matchups against Elmore County, 2-1. NEXT UP: Elmore County at Charles Henderson.
STANHOPE ELMORE (4-5)
VS. CALERA (3-6) THE PLAYERS
RB Arthur McQueen has 204 carries for 1,791 rushing yards and 21 TDs. … RB Demarrian Barnes has 99 carries for 680 yards and 3 TDs. … Kamran Anderson leads the team with 14 sacks on the year.
CALERA: QB Antorious Johnson has completed 172 of 289 pass attempts for 2,554 pass attempts throwing 16 TDs and 10 INTs. … WR KD Young has 38 catches for 500 yards and 2 TDs. … RB Demetrius Davis has 85 carries for 476 rushing yards and 8 TDs.
FOUR DOWNS
Last week, Stanhope lost to Wetumpka; 27-13; Calera lost to Helena, 49-21. Stanhope averages 344.7 rushing yards per game. Calera’s defense allows 38.5 points per game on defense. Stanhope leads in all-time matchups against Calera, 3-1.
EDGEWOOD ACADEMY (3-5)
VS. FORT DALE ACADEMY (7-2)
THE PLAYERS
EDGEWOOD: Last week, QB Brock Whitt passed for
Arkevious Turner, who have separated themselves as standouts. The season that those two have had coming off the edge stressed the importance of the offensive line’s play, according to O’Neal.
MARTIN
Continued from B1
DJ Vinson and Baldwin County’s Tiaquentin
Mims as the South’s other receivers. Oxford’s Sam Adams will serve as the head coach while McAdory’s Aryvia Holmes will serve as the offensive coordinator and wide receivers coach.
This is the second consecutive year Reeltown has sent a player to the North-South game, last year Arthur Woods was named a defensive back for the South squad last year while coach Matt Johnson served as one of the coaches for the squad. The 66th annual North-South game will be played at Hancock Whitney Stadium in Mobile on Dec. 13.
HONORS
Continued from A5
“We really got to lean on the offensive line, because that defensive front is real stout,” O’Neal said. “If we can block those guys and get to the second and third level, then we’re having a really good night.”
PLAYOFF
Continued from B1
167 yards and 4 TDs. … WR Grayson Jones has four catches for 136 yards and 2 TD passes. … Cooper Freeman recorded 11 total tackles against Abbeville.
FOUR DOWNS
Last week, Edgewood beat Abbeville, 33-14; Fort Dale beat Wilcox Academy.
Edgewood’s defense averages 28.6 points allowed per game.
Fort Dale is on a threegame win streak. Edgewood leads in all-time matchups against Fort Dale,
Although the Tigers have not only revived their team with O’Neal reigning in his first season by taking a struggling team to the playoffs. They understand there is still one game left and their preparation cannot lapse before the end of the season.
TALLASSEE: Talk about a turnaround for the Tallassee football team. After finishing the 2023 season at 1-9, there was no place to go but up. After hiring Lawrence “L.A.” O’Neal, he quickly turned Tallassee into a winning football team and the record to 6-2. Tallassee sits comfortably as the No. 1 seed in the 4A Region 3 with a region record of 6-1, allowing the Tigers to host a playoff game for the first time since 2017. The team has been dominated on both sides of the ball all season en route to this playoff berth in O’Neal’s first year as head coach. The first-round matchup looks to be Mobile Christian, who sits at 3-6 on the year.
ELMORE COUNTY: Elmore County is another team that punched its ticket to the playoffs this year in a
County,” Stubbs said. “He was an expert in areas I was not, especially in law enforcement.”
Daugherty is retired law enforcement. He and Elmore County Sheriff Bill Franklin responded to numerous calls together especially near Lake Martin. Franklin is always looking for more employees, both deputies and reserve deputies. Franklin spoke at the meeting hoping to recruit the retiring commissioner to his staff. Franklin brought Daugherty a badge and Elmore County Sheriff’s Office apparel so Daugherty could start immediately if he wanted.
Daugherty didn’t give an answer, just grinned and said, “Thank you.”
Santuck Volunteer Fire Department
12-10.
TALLASSEE (6-2) VS. HOLTVILLE (4-5) THE PLAYERS:
TALLASSEE: WR Jordan King has been the leader in the passing attack for the Tigers. … QB Trent Morris is an athletic quarterback that can use his legs and his arm. … RB Tiny Green has been a dominant back for the Tigers all season.
HOLTVILLE: Last week, RB Daishaun Zeigler rushed for 104 yards and 2 TDs. … WR Elijah Handley acculated 80
“The kids are really confident in their preparation,” O’Neal said. “They understand that we get the results out when we put the work in. They showed up this morning in the weight room and really got after it. We’re looking to have a really good practice
win over Marbury, two weeks back. The team’s 4-2 Class 5A Region 4 record secured the No. 3 seed, with Clay Central and Beauregard ahead of them. The first-round matchup looks to be against Charles Henderson on the road, who sits at 6-3 on the year and secured the No. 2 seed with a win over Eufaula last week. Elmore County has accrued three straight region wins and has to face Chilton County this week to extend its win streak heading into the playoffs.
STANHOPE:
Stanhope’s best shot to remain in the playoffs came last week against Wetumpka, but after suffering a loss, the window closed. It was tough sledding for Stanhope, after losing players on both sides of the ball during a bulk of its region games and also being without star Arthur McQueen last week. Currently, the region record sits at 2-4 with Percy Julian taking the spot as the No. 4 seed in the region at 3-3.
chief Tommy Sanford asked Daugherty if he still had his turn out gear from his days on the fire truck. Sanford recalled serving with Daugherty on fire scenes when the soon-to-be retired commissioner volunteered with the fire department in Kowaliga.
Everyone who spoke said they became close friends of Daugherty and he never spoke ill of anyone, including political opponents. Commissioner-elect Brad Davis previously ran against Daugherty in 2020 and Franklin asked the retiring commissioner about the man at the time.
“(Davis) is a great guy, a family man,” Franklin recalled Daugherty saying before the last election.
Franklin said Daugherty never said anything bad about anyone.
Elmore County chief operations officer Richie Beyer said Daugherty has been a part of some Elmore County’s biggest decisions such as approv -
receiving yards and 1 TDs. … DL Arkevious Turner finished the game with 2 sacks.
FOUR DOWNS Last week, Tallassee beat Talladega, 48-7; Holtville beat Marbury, 28-0. Tallassee has won fivestraight games.
Holtville averages 17.8 points per game on offense. Tallassee leads in all-time matchups against Holtville, 31-4-1.
NEXT UP: Tallassee hosts Mobile Christian; Holtville at Montgomery Catholic.
this afternoon, and that’s one of the things we’re not overly confident, but we are really confident in the work that we put in. So it’s all about just the preparation that we put in. As long as we take our craft seriously, take our film study series, then we have a good shot at winning any ball game that we are in.”
Unfortunately for Stanhope, there is one last game against Calera which is a non-region game. Although it seems that the season is to end on Friday, there is still plenty of young talent littered through the roster that could turn things around next year.
HOLTVILLE: Holtville squeaked into the playoffs after a massive round win against Marbury last week. Currently, the team locked down the No. 4 seed in 5A Region 4, with Elmore County, Beauregard and Clay Central above them. Holtville’s first-round matchup pits it up against Montgomery Catholic, an undefeated squad that sits ranked as the No. 1 team in all of 5A football. Although the team faces a formidable foe in the first round this is the eighth consecutive season Hotlville has made the playoffs.
EDGEWOOD: The Edgewood football team was unable to reach the play-
ing 17 Springs, proposing sharing a portion of the internet sales tax with education, fighting for ARP funding for Eclectic and Tallassee for water and sewer projects and improving 240 miles of county roads.
“You always hear what he has done but not from him,” Faulkner said. Davis, of Tallassee, is taking Daugherty’s position on the commission and will be sworn in Nov. 13.
Also at Monday’s meeting, the commission approved two property transactions.
It voted to sell 0.27 acres adjacent to Ware Road to Herron Family Farms above market value. The property is near a current Elmore County voting house and aids the farm in accessing nearby property.
The commission purchased 6.37 acres from Daxw Properties adjacent to Minnie Knight Road for less than market value. The county currently
Even with the regular season coming to a close, Holtville and Tallassee are set to clash right before each team attempts to make a push once the playoffs arrive next week.
offs this year after going 0-4 in region play in 2024. The team struggled to get things done on both sides of the ball this year averaging only a little over 16 points per game on offense and allowing 26.8 points per game on defense. Edgewood has one final game to end the regular season on a high note against For Dale Academy which sits at 7-2 on the year.
REELTOWN:
Reeltown was crowned region champs for the third consecutive year after going perfect in region play. After dropping the first game of the season against T.R. Miller, Reeltown has won the past eight games by significant margins. The defense pitched four shutouts and the offense scored over 40 points in five of its games. Reeltown’s opponent has not been determined yet, but more than likely it will extend its season to another possible state championship berth as one of the best teams in all of Class 2A.
has an easement to use the property for debris from storms.
The commission voted to honor Operation Greenlight, highlighting veterans and their needs when they return home. The commission has approved the resolution in the past and hung banners marking the occasion. But the commission also said it wanted to install a large flag on the side of the Historic Elmore County Courthouse for the month of November.
IN OTHER ACTION THE ELMORE COUNTY COMMISSION:
• Approved minutes of the Oct. 15 meeting.
• Approved a memorandum of warrants totaling $3,487,156.81 for Oct. 5 to Oct. 18. The next meeting of the Elmore County Commission is scheduled for 10 a.m. Nov. 13.
Elmore County ends the regular season against Chilton County, before the playoffs next week.
Job Opportunities
Full-Time Grade I Outside Water Operator Wall Street Water Authority Requirements: •Current Alabama Grade I Operator Certificate.
•Extensive knowledge of Surface Water Distribution.
•Work weekends/nights and holidays, if necessary.
•Lifting/shoveling/climbing ladders required.
•Backhoe/mini-track operating experience.
•Pass drug test.
•Have valid driver’s license.
Mail Resumes/References: Wall Street Water Authority 5059 Notasulga Road Tallassee, AL 36078
Attention:Wanda Ingram, Office Manager 334-283-5002 -EOE-
independently and with a team. High school diploma required. Starting $14.00+, commensurate with experience, review for increase in 6 months. Email resume to fireguard.protect@gmail.com or call 334-541-3000 for an interview.
Construction Company at Lake Martin and surrounding area looking for skilled carpenters and construction equipment operators. Top pay based on experience. Serious inquiries only. office.ppbinc@yahoo.com
Cotton Lakes HOA Wetumpka, AL 334-478-4965 cottonlakeshoa@yahoo.com
Job Opportunities
Multiple Grounds Maintenance Workers needed for Rotolo Consultants, Inc.: Operate vehicles/powered equipment for landscaping/ Lawncare; Use hand tools; Prune/trim trees, shrubs, or hedges; Gather/remove litter; Rake/mulch/compost leaves; Follow landscape designs; Use garden tools. Haul/spread topsoil/pine straw; Create forms, mix/pour cement for garden borders, and bulkheads. Monitor/adjust water consumption using irrigation methods; Monitor/maintain seasonal irrigation systems; Install rock gardens, ponds, decks, drainage systems, irrigation systems, retaining walls, fences, planters, or playground equipment. 3 mos. exp req’d. Work in Alexander City, AL Contact at LJURADO@rotoloconsultants. com.
Pets & Livestock
Domestic Pets
FOR SALE: Toy/Teacup/Tiny-toy, Poodles, AKC Registered, pedigree furnished to new owners. 2 males, 3 females Available mid-October Call (334)750-3410
Business Opportunities
AlaScans
g 1-855-405-9791
FOR SALE
AFFORDABLE TV & INTERNET. If you are overpaying for your service, call now for a free quote and see how much you can save! 1-866-816-3535
DirecTV Satellite TV Service Starting at $59.99/month! Free Installation! 160+ channels available. Call Now to Get the Most Sports & Entertainment on TV! 844-594-7108
NEED NEW FLOORING?
Call today schedule a FREE in-home estimate on Carpeting & Flooring. Call Today! 1-877-568-2248
AlaScans
y For a limited time, waving ALL installation costs! (Additional and vary by dealer.) Offer ends 6/30/24. Call 1-877-205-0836
Replace your roof with the best looking and longest lasting material -steel from Erie Metal Roofs! Three styles and multiple colors available. Guaranteed to last a lifetime! Limited Time Offer -up to 50% off installation + Additional 10% off install (for military, health workers & 1st responders.) Call Erie Metal Roofs: 1-833-955-3163
Run your ad in $210 per week! Make one call to this newspaper (participating Ala-SCAN newspaper) or call how easy it is to advertise statewide!
BATH & SHOWER UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Affordable prices - No payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & Military Discounts available. Call: 1-855-405-8901
NEW AUTHORS WANTED! Our publishing staff will help you self-publish your own book. FREE author submission kit! Limited offer! Why wait? Call now: 1-877-567-9754
LONG DISTANCE MOVING: Call today for a FREE QUOTE from America's Most Trusted Interstate Movers. Let us take the stress out of moving! Speak to a Relocation Specialist, call 844-925-3534
WATER DAMAGE CLEANUP & RESTORATION: A small amount of water can lead to Our trusted professionals dry out the wet area and do repairs to protect your family and your home's value! If you have water in your home that needs to be dried, Call 24/7: 1-877-727-2344 Have zip code of service location ready when you call!
EDUCATION
UPDATE YOUR HOME with Beautiful New Blinds & Shades. FREE in-home estimates make it convenient to shop from home. Professional installation. Top quality - Made in the USA. Call for free consultation: 1-855-405-8839. Ask about our specials! Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today. 20% off Entire Purchase. Plus 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-833-683-2005
Prepare for power outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 7-Year warranty with qualifying purchase* Call 1-877-323-5516 today to schedule a free quote. power move.
Safe Step. North America’s #1 Walk-In Tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-theline installation and service. Now featuring our FREE shower package and $1600 Off for a limited time! Call today! Financing available. Call Safe Step 1-844-871-6175 Call LeafGuard and say goodbye to gutter cleaning for good. No cleaning. No leaking. No water damage. No more ladder accidents. Get LeafGuard today and be protected for life. FREE estimate. Financing available. 20% off total purchase (Restrictions may apply.) Call 1-844-679-2490
AUTOMOTIVE GOT AN UNWANTED CAR??? DONATE IT TO PATRIOTIC HEARTS. Fast free pick up. All 50 States. Patriotic Hearts’ programs help veterans business. Call 24/7: 1-855-405-8927
AUTO INSURANCE from $29 month Free 2-minute Quote! We Compare all Insurance providers offers for you! Lowest Rates! Call Now 866-450-0943
VEHICLE TITLE Problems? We have a solution! Call Jason Steward Enterprises, We’re Alabama’s #1 Vehicle Title Problem Experts! Free telephone consultation. North AL 1-256-850-0527, Central AL 1-205-267-5735, South AL 1-251-342-8538.
Raise your hand if you want your business to make LESS money next year.
We didn’t think you would. Do you need to successfully market on a tight budget? Tallapoosa and Elmore County Classifieds has customizable programs available to fit any budget.
DON’T WAIT! Call TODAY 256.277.4219
Public Notices
Do
ATTENTION ACTIVE Duty & Military Veterans! Begin a new career and earn your Degree at CTI! Online Computer & Medical training available for Veterans & Families! To learn more, call 866-475-1014 (M-F 8am-6pm ET).
HEALTH/BEAUTY
ATTENTION OXYGEN
THERAPY USERS! Discover Oxygen Therapy That Moves with You with Inogen Portable Oxygen Concentrators. FREE information kit. Call 1-855-405-8647
Attention: VIAGRA and CIALIS
USERS! A cheaper alternative to high drugstore prices! 50 Pill Special - Only $99! 100% guaranteed. CALL NOW:
DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 400 plus procedures. Real dental plan. Do not wait! Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details! 1-877-817-4697 www.dental50plus.com/ alabama #6258
Donate your car, truck, boat, RV and more to support our veterans! Schedule a FAST, FREE vehicle pickup and receive a top tax deduction! Call Veteran Car Donations at 1-877-724-3049 today!
Jacuzzi Bath Remodel can install a new, custom bath or shower in as little as one day.
Public Notices
PUBLIC NOTICE
The City of Tallassee Planning Commission will have a Public Hearing/Meeting on November 4, 2024 @ 6:00PM at City Hall. This Hearing is to change the Zoning @ 604 Elm Street from (HC) Highway Commercial to (GB) General Business. Tallassee Tribune: Oct. 30, 2024 HEARING 11.04.24
Holley set to retire from county school board
By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
The Elmore County Board of Education said goodbye to member Joey Holley, who is retiring at the end of this term
In a meeting set in his alma mater, Elmore County High School, the board thanked Holley for his 15 years of service. The remaining six members all spoke of the professionalism Holley brought to the board.
“The greatest thing that I've learned from him when it comes to the students is every student matters,” board chair David Jones said.
“It doesn't matter where you come from. It doesn't matter who you are. Every student matters. He stands in the gap for them.”
Holley is the only board member still serving who was on the board of education when Michael Morgan was elected. He said Holley served as a mentor.
“He's dedicated and passionate about serving the students of Elmore County,” Morgan said. “He loves this community.”
Morgan said Holley has been to many things Eclectic over the years and served not only the students of his community but across Elmore County.
“I think the world of you and learned an awful lot from you,” Morgan said. “I think one of the things I'm most thankful for is the friendship I developed with you and that won't go anywhere.”
Boardmember Brian Ward got to know Holley when Ward was attending board meetings and lobbying for a middle school in the Redland community.
“Since I've been on the board, you've meant a lot to me,” Ward said.
“We've spent many evenings after conferences just sitting down and talking about personal things, struggles in life—
sometimes things not so important, but you were always there.”
Bill Meyers is the newest member of the Elmore County Board of Education. He hasn’t had long to get to know Holley but knew he had the right intentions.
“One of the first words I heard him say, he mentioned the
Season turnaround
Elmore County comes one game shy of state
By SAMUEL HIGGS Sports Reporter
Elmore County volleyball rode into its 16th consecutive AHSAA 5A Regional volleyball tournament appearance last week in Montgomery.
The Panthers knew what they were walking into Thursday. Despite walking into a loud environment that caused some teams to become overwhelmed, the same could not be said for the Panthers who know what it takes to be successful in regionals. However, there were still some nerves considering what was at stake.
“(The girls) still get nervous; I still get nervous; we all still get nervous,” ECHS coach Kim Moncrief said. “But it does help to come here and play; they've seen it before. The underclassmen of most, most of them, have come on this journey, and they see what it's like. They see the crowd. They know it's going to be loud. They know about the sport-court and the sport-court rules because that's a little bit different than playing in a wide-open gym.”
Elmore County kicked off the tournament against Citronelle in the first round of the tournament. Even though the team has been plagued with slow starts through the season, it did not seem that way in the first set where Elmore County dominated, 25-15.
However, Citronelle fought back in the second set ultimately taking the win, 26-24. Elmore County responded by dominating the next two sets, 25-13 and 25-17, punching its ticket to the second round of the tournament. The outside hitters of Allyson Orr, Isabella Fuller, Addison Hicks and Lalah Cullpepper provided the kick Elmore County needed to advance.
“It took us a few minutes to get warmed up,” Moncrief said. “We still
are going to need to play a little bit better in the next round to move on, but they did what they needed to do to get the job done. I think we'll come back in the second game a lot stronger.”
Elmore County was originally supposed to kick off the second round against Demopolis at 2:45 p.m., but due to the tournament being delayed the team did not take the court for warmups until 6 p.m.
The break between matches proved to be costly for the Panthers. Even though they kept it close in the first set, they ultimately fell, 25-23. The second proved to be much the same with the Tigers getting the upper hand at 25-15.
Despite surrendering two consecutive sets, Elmore County would not go down without a fight. The third set was a constant back and forth between, where the final score went into additional points with Demopolis capping it off with a 30-28 victory.
“Our girls have an incredible amount of fight and I knew they were going to play to the last point and they did,” Moncrief said. “I mean, for the third set to go to 30, I couldn't ask for more than that; they just battled hard.”
Even with the season ending the way it did, Elmore County is consistently one of the top teams in Class 5A. The team has won the area title for 15 straight seasons and made it to regionals 16 times in a row. While Elmore County does lose some valuable pieces in seniors Orr, Addilyn Tierce, Kennedy Robinson and Elizabeth Lyons, the rest of the team was full of juniors and sophomores who played a key role in the success this season.
The Panthers will spend the offseason refining their skills in pursuit to continue their streak of area titles and regional appearances.
church,” Meyers said. “That went a long way with me. We have some tough decisions to make and those kind of things, and we know where all the discernment comes from.”
Sitting in the old Elmore County High School auditorium, Holley gave a few remarks, thanking those who
spoke so highly of him just moments before. He thanked his mentors and those who served on the board with him.
“I appreciate the school here,” Holley said. “It has educated three generations of my family. It's been really good. It's been good for us.”
Holley and his wife
Tracy have seen a lot of changes over the years, including additions to the schools in Eclectic and plans for a new high school added to the capital plan.
“We have a lot of good things here and across the county,” Holley said. “But the biggest shining star is our students.”
Dog, puppies rescued from downtown Eclectic
By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
One dog many have seen in downtown Eclectic has been rescued — along with six 2-week old puppies. Lake Martin Animal Rescue owner Jennie Zinn has had her eye on the dog for a while. It’s now a rescue she and her 11-year-old daughter will remember for a lifetime.
Zinn had spotted the dog with an intact male about two months ago. She was able to catch him and get the now-neutered male adopted. Next was the shy female. It’s an animal Zinn has seen for more than three years roaming all of Eclectic, staying most recently around the pecan grove and sheds near downtown.
“We couldn’t catch her,” Zinn said. “We thought she was likely pregnant. On Friday before the cotton fest she was spotted. Then Sunday after she was spotted again.”
This time the female dog was lighter. Zinn spent about two weeks using a trap with food like a kennel nearby. She wasn’t ready to trap the mother dog just yet because the puppies were located in a tight crawl space Zinn couldn’t get to.
“They were too far back in the shed and it was too narrow,” Zinn said. “It was going to take somebody really small to go under there.”
Zinn’s daughter Abigail volunteered to go in the tight space to get the puppies after the mother was captured.
“It was quite the ordeal,” Zinn said. “It was kind of scary because she was under this old building, but I was very proud of her because she was overcoming some fears of spiders and possible snakes and all that stuff.”
Zinn said Town of Eclectic employees took
notice of the operation and helped out. They were also joined by Paige Kyser Morrow. Abigail crawled in as far as she could go.
“There was like a little assembly line,” Zinn said.
“Abigail was handing under the crack, one puppy at a time. Then Paige would take the puppy from her, and then pass it to one of the guys who had the crate and would put each puppy in the crate. It kept going from there until all of them were out.”
Zinn said ideally the mother and puppies will be placed together with the currently two week old puppies until they get older.
“Our goal to start with is to find a rescue or foster that is experienced with dealing with Mama and puppies,” Zinn said. “That would be our first goal. ”
Zinn said the mother needs a good bit of social-
ization since it has been on its own for years.
“We want her to be in a nice foster home, somewhere where they can spend time with her,” Zinn said.
The next option is to separate mother and puppies but that is the last resort.
After the mother is finished nursing, Zinn said she would be spayed to prevent future litters.
It’s part of the mission of the Lake Martin Animal Rescue. Zinn is also always fundraising to care for neglected animals in Coosa, Elmore and Tallapoosa counties.
“Right now we are planning our biggest fundraiser in February,” Zinn said. “It will be a formal called Furball at the Mitchell House in Dadeville.” The event includes live music from Blackberry Breeze and live and silent auctions.
SAMUEL HIGGS | TPI
Elmore County’s Addisyn Stephenson (12) spikes the ball against Demopolis.
SUBMITTED TPI
Jennie Zinn, front, poses with Paige Kyser Morrow, left, Zinn’s daughter Abigail and two employees from the Town of Eclectic. They rescued a dog and puppies from under a building near the pecan grove in downtown Eclectic.
CLIFF WILLIAMS | TPI
Elmore County Board of Education member Joey Holley unwraps an etched glass piece thanking him for 15 years of service to the students oof Elmore County.