Tallassee Tribune Aug. 2 2023

Inmates, officer charged with murder in prison

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

An Alabama Department of Corrections officer and two inmates have been charged in the murder of a state prisoner.

Rubyn James Murray was an inmate at the Elmore Correctional Facility who died Wednesday following an incident at the state prison, according to the Alabama Department of Corrections. On Thursday, ADOC Correctional Sgt. Demarcus Sanders and inmates Fredrick Gooden and Stefranio Hampton were charged with murder related to Murray’s death.

“Murray was involved in an incident outside his dorm with correctional officers resulting in a physical altercation with one of the officers,” ADOC said in a statement. “Both the officer and Murray sustained minor injuries.”

Murray was placed in a holding cell near the rear of the facility and was to be transferred to the Staton Health Care Unit, which is at a nearby facility, for treatment. But before the transfer could happen, two other inmates gained access to Murray’s temporary cell.

MADDY STRONG

By ABIGAIL MURPHY Multimedia Reporter

O

n July 15, 2022, Kayla Veal found out her daughter has a brain tumor.

“I cried so hard my dad couldn’t hear me on the phone,” she said. “I tried to calm myself down and process it. I’m still processing to this day. She has cancer.”

Kayla’s daughter, Madison, is the middle child with two sisters. Madison was born with three holes in her heart with two of the holes closed. Due to her heart, she sees a cardiologist every two years.

Madison also has epilepsy and developmental delay with

“In violation of ADOC policy, two other inmates gained access to the holding area,” ADOC said. “Murray was found unresponsive and was transported to SHCU and then to an area hospital for emergency treatment. Medical staff was unable to

autistic behavior. Despite her pre-existing health problems, Madison continues to fight through brain cancer.

“She knows no strangers,” Kayla said, describing Madison’s personality. “She waves at everybody, talks to everybody and just says ‘Hi.’” Madison turned 9 last

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

Traffic is a little slower on Gilmer Avenue in Tallassee after a summer of traffic detail. For more than two months patrol vehicles with the Tallassee Police Department have

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

A contract with a retail recruitment consultant was extended for one year by the Tallassee City Council

Tuesday night. Tallassee has paid Recruitment Strategies $30,000 per year for the last four years for efforts to bring new

See COUNCIL, Page A6

Teachers impressed with new school

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

The finishing touches are going in at Tallassee High School before the new building welcomes students next week.

Teachers have spent the last few days making the bare walls of new classrooms come to life. Caleb Stewart last walked the halls of Tallassee High School in the old building as a student. He returns to a new school building, this time as a first-year teacher. He likes the

SUBMITTED | THE TRIBUNE

Madison Veal was diagnosed with a rare brain tumor called Embryonal Tumor CNS Neuroblastoma in July 2022.

Obituaries

TERESA “DENISE” NEWMAN

Mrs. Teresa “Denise” Newman, a resident of Tallassee, Alabama, passed away Monday, July 24, 2023, at the age of 53. She was born March 9, 1970, in Tallassee, Alabama, to William Thomas and Teresa Diane Sanders Scott.

Mrs. Newman is survived by her husband of 22 years, Johnny Newman; daughters, Harley Blair Newman and Callie Elise Newman; step-children, Christa

BARBARA L. BLACK

Barbara L. Black, 66, of Tallassee, passed away peacefully on Friday, July 21, 2023. She was born January 5, 1957. Barbara dedicated 35 years to Auburn University where she worked in Communication and Marketing. Visitation will begin at 11 am, Thursday, July 27, 2023 at Linville Memorial Funeral Home with graveside

Police Reports

TALLASSEE POLICE DEPARTMENT

JULY 31

• Trespassing was reported on Second Street.

JULY 30

• A welfare check was conducted on Gilmer Avenue.

• A motor vehicle accident with no injuries was reported on West Gantts Mill Road.

• A disorderly person was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• A tree on a powerline was reported on Herren Street.

• A powerline down was reported on Indian Trail.

• A suspicious person was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• Assistance was given during a medical call on Central Boulevard.

• A suspicious person was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• A prowler was reported on Second Street.

JULY 29

• A welfare check was conducted on Gilmer Avenue.

• Gunfire was reported on Sims Avenue.

• Harassment was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• Harassing communications was reported on Hillcrest Street.

• Reckless driving was reported on Notasulga Road.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Noble Road.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on North Ann Avenue.

• Assistance was given during a medical call on Redden Avenue.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Macedonia Road.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Highway 229.

• A domestic dispute was reported on South Tallassee Drive.

• Assistance was given to another agency on Highway 229.

• A private property accident was reported on Adams Street.

• A domestic dispute was reported on West Main Street.

• An animal complaint was reported on Sims Avenue.

• Assistance was

Lynn Gidous, Johnny Newman II, Dustin Wayne Newman and James Coty Newman; mother, Teresa Smith and step-father, Jimmy Koutney; brothers, Leon Scott (Kim) and Jamie Koutney (Shannon); sister, Penni Scott (Robin); 13 grandchildren and 1 great grandson; several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and her special dog, Lola. She is preceded in death by her father, William T. “Tom” Scott. Denise enjoyed reading from her tablet and taking care of “her babies.”

service to follow at 12 pm at Carrville Cemetery and Pastor Billy Reinhardt officiating. She is preceded in death by her parents, Lloyd and Myra Law and brother, Harold Johnson. She is survived by her loving husband of 37 years, Terry Black; stepmother, Myra Law; children, Stacey Black and Valerie Black; sister, Jan Duff; brother, Les Johnson;

given to a motorist on West James Street.

• A tree was reported in the roadway on Benson Avenue.

• A prowler was reported on Evergreen Street.

• An animal complaint was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• A prowler was reported on Evergreen Street.

JULY 28

• An arrest was made during a traffic stop on Caldwell Street.

• A suspicious person was reported on East Patton Street.

• Gunfire was reported on Gen. Chappy James Street.

• An animal complaint was reported on Dixie Circle.

• Theft was reported on Barnett Boulevard.

• Assistance was given to a citizen on Barnett Boulevard.

• Animal control was requested on Noble Road.

• Animal control was requested on Barnett Boulevard.

• Theft was reported on Herd Street.

• Harassment was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• A domestic dispute was reported on Recreation Center Road.

• A white female was arrested during a suspicious person call on Gilmer Avenue.

• Animal control was requested on Gilmer Avenue.

JULY 27

• A fight was reported on Hickory Street.

• A noise complaint was reported on Third Avenue.

• A Black female was arrested on Barnett Boulevard.

• A verbal altercation was reported on Lower Tuskegee Road.

• An arrest was made during a traffic stop on Gilmer Avenue.

• A welfare check was conducted on Macedonia Road.

• Theft was reported on Ransom Drive.

• A white male was arrested on Central Boulevard.

• Assistance was given during a medical call on Freeman Avenue.

• A domestic dispute was reported on Third Avenue.

• A Black male and white female

The family will receive friends Friday, July 28, 2023, from 1:00PM until service time at 2:00PM at Jeffcoat Funeral Home Chapel. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Learning Tree, 101 South Dubois Street, Tallassee, Alabama 36078.

grandchildren, Alexandria Kennedy, Cheyenne Smith and Carlena and Kierslyn Arms; many nieces and nephews and we can’t forget Carmen, her best friend. Online condolences may be posted at www.linvillememorial.com.

Linville Memorial Funeral Home and Crematory Eclectic, Alabama

was arrested during a traffic stop on Oak Heights Road.

• A burglary was reported on First Avenue.

JULY 26

• Animal control was requested on Gilmer Avenue.

• An arrest was made during a traffic stop on Gilmer Avenue.

• Menacing was reported on Gen. Chappy James Street.

• Animal control was requested on Freeman Avenue.

• Harassment was reported on Barnett Boulevard.

• Assistance was given to another agency on Freeman Avenue.

• A suicidal subject was reported on Freeman Avenue.

• A welfare check was conducted on Hillcrest Street.

• A suicidal subject was reported on Freeman Avenue.

• Animal control was requested on Noble Road.

• A Black male was arrested on Highway 231.

• A white female was arrested on Powers Avenue.

• Theft was reported on Riverside Avenue.

• Animal control was requested on Gilmer Avenue.

• Assistance was given to medics on Friendship Road.

JULY 25

• Assistance was given to medics on Freeman Avenue.

• Animal control was requested on Notasulga Road.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Jordan Avenue.

• A noise complaint was reported on Third Avenue.

• Assistance was given to medics on Mott Lane.

• A juvenile complaint was reported on Rickey Lane.

• An animal complaint was reported on Sims Avenue.

• An animal bite was reported on Dorman Avenue.

• A welfare check was conducted on East Roosevelt Street.

• A private property accident was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• A civil disturbance was reported on Dorman Avenue.

• A motor vehicle accident with no injuries was reported on

Gilmer Avenue.

• A civil disturbance was reported on Dorman Avenue.

• Criminal mischief was reported on Whatley Drive.

• Livestock was reported in the roadway on Macedonia Road.

• An animal complaint was reported on Central Boulevard.

• Theft was reported on Thelma Drive.

• Trespassing was reported on Thelma Drive.

JULY 24

• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• Assistance was given to a citizen on Alber Drive

• Animal control was requested on Central Boulevard.

• Assistance was given to medics on Freeman Avenue.

• Animal control was requested on Noble Road.

• A suicidal subject was reported on Freeman Avenue.

• Theft was reported on Highway 229.

• A hit and run accident was reported on Kent Road.

• Theft was reported on McNeal Street.

• Burglary was reported on Freeman Avenue.

• Harassment was reported on Barnett Boulevard.

• Child abuse was reported on McNeal Street.

• Harassment was reported on Apple Avenue.

• Animal control was requested on Gilmer Avenue.

• Animal control was requested on Main Street.

• Disorderly conduct was reported on Barnett Boulevard.

WETUMPKA POLICE DEPARTMENT

JULY 25

• Reckless endangerment and criminal mischief was reported on Wilson Street.

JULY 24

• Theft was reported on Cedar Court.

JULY 23

• Theft was reported on U.S. Highway 231.

JULY 21

• Unlawful breaking and entering a vehicle and theft was reported in Autumnwood Village.

JULY 13

• Officer involved shooting was reported on Coosa River Parkway.

Safety a priority ahead of school start

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

Yellow buses and children will soon be active around Tallassee schools.

The Tallassee Police Department wants to remind all drivers how to keep everyone safe — most importantly the students. Tallassee police Lt. Brian Clayton oversees all school resource officers at the three schools in addition to being one himself. He is also responsible for the crossing guards at each school.

Clayton said the most important thing is safety around the crosswalks just outside the schools with reduced speed limits as students arrive and leave.

“All of our school zones are the same — 25 mph,” Clayton said. “We have to have everyone going by that. At the Elementary School on Friendship

Road, we don’t have kids crossing but will have a crossing guard out there.”

Clayton said the need for a lower speed limit during arrival and departure is much needed. He said at Tallassee Elementary School there were two traffic accidents due to speeding.

“The crossing guard tries to slow or stop someone and they slam on brakes because they are speeding and the next car hits them because they are speeding,” Clayton said.

“Speed causes a safety issue and concern for the crossing guards as well as the parents dropping off the kids.”

Clayton said crossing guards are also at Southside Middle School on Highway 229 and at Tallassee High School on Barnett Boulevard.

“We have kids crossing the road there,”

Clayton said. “The crossing guards are trying to also get buses in and out too.”

In the past there has been a traffic issue at Five Points as traffic backs up in the school zone and past the police department on Barnett Boulevard.

“Some try to cut through the gas station there to avoid the traffic light,” Clayton said. “There are people there pumping gas. Cars are flying through the parking lot as kids are walking. It is a violation, using private property to avoid a traffic signal, you can be cited for that.”

He said he understands how parents and other drivers can get frustrated trying to get to work.

“Everyone needs to be mindful and take a little more time,” Clayton said. “All of this is to keep everyone, especially students,

Draco is a little over 1 year old. He is about 45 pounds and his owner couldn’t care for him so he came to the shelter. Draco is a complete sweetheart and is awesome with both male and female dogs and smaller dogs. He might be a bit too exuberant for cats.

He loves children. Draco really is striking to look at and is just a wonderful dog indeed!

The Humane Soci-

ety 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 Cola 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.

safe during busy times of the day.”

Clayton said the new high school with its new parking lot in the back will help with some of the issues on Barnett Boulevard.

“It will eliminate almost all the bus traffic on Barnett,” Clayton said. “It will be a big help for traffic especially in the mornings. But there will still be kids walk -

ing across Barnett. We need for all drivers to be mindful of children walking especially as they approach the schools. We don’t want anything unfortunate to happen.”

Pet of the Week - Draco

Obituaries: 35 cents per word with a $25 charge for picture per paper (Herald, Observer, Tribune). Obituaries are only accepted via the funeral home in charge of arrangements. We do not accept obituaries from individuals.

Weddings, Engagements, Anniversaries, or Birth

Announcements: These significant family events or milestones are 35 cents per word and $25 for a photo and must be emailed to us at announcements@thewetumpkaherald.com. Include name and telephone number. The text for the announcement must be in the body of the email (not as an attachment) and photographs must be sent as a .jpeg attached to the email. Announcements will appear within 10 days in The Herald or The Tribune.

Tallassee Talks

Stop breeding your dogs

Over the last few weeks, I have seen far too many Facebook posts about people in Tallapoosa County breeding their dogs.

What’s most worrisome about this is many of these posts are followed up by a post about a stray or abandoned dog. Many times it’s a photo of a dog that is skin and bones or covered in mange. Our local animal shelters have also gotten pretty creative about how they are “advertising” their dogs for adoption, pulling at people’s emotions and heartstrings.

Animal shelters in Lake Martin, Elmore County and even Montgomery, Auburn-Opelika and Birmingham are full to the brim – and over capacity in most cases. People who are doing things even more on a volunteer-basis with rescues out of their homes or run by one person – they are just out there trying to do the best they can.

It’s scary the amount of shelters that are overrun by stray and abandoned dogs, yet we still have people out here buying and selling bred dogs at a steep cost. Who does that benefit?

I know certain dogs are bred for certain purposes – such as hunting, shepherding or even law enforcement – however a dog like a goldendoodle, which seem to be overly popular in this area, or a

Yorkipoo are nothing more than designer dogs.

I’ve also just seen a lot of posts about breeding purebred boxers, labs and others that seem like nothing more than a way to make money. The aim always seems to be selling the puppies quickly and moving on to the next litter. These dogs are equivalent to a bag of money. It may not be so bad if it weren’t for the fact Alabama is in a crisis of stray dogs. Shelters are getting fuller and fuller by the day, and the only option is to euthanize. There’s nowhere else for them to go.

little loving. There are plenty of people who have dogs that are kept outside and so long as they are taken care of, that is no problem. Taking on a dog doesn’t mean your entire life has to change.

bucks for a purebred dog, I would hope you’re taking them into an environment where they are a bit spoiled. That’s not always the case though. Just imagine with that kind of money what you could do for a few stray dogs who really need it.

breeding for even a few months, it might seriously help with the stray dog problem. Far too many of those litters are ending up on the streets. The breeders can’t find enough buyers for their pups, so what do they do? Dump them. worse and worse in the tri-county area.

hen first daughter Michaela graduated, she went to California. Miriam’s senior trip was to Ireland. Abbey spent several months in Texas.

So one can imagine our surprise when Danielle asked for her graduation travel plan: a trip to Iowa.

Iowa?

All I could imagine was fields of corn.

But what we didn’t know was in the summer of 2022, Danielle met a fella. They bonded at a church camp in Indiana at St. Meinrad, started a prayer group that met on a conference call every night (I wondered why she was always up so late) and made plans to get together again.

Now, being a guy, I know most teenage boys aren’t known for being extremely thoughtful, careful, loyal or faithful. Some are but mostly their minds are on a million other things.

This boy was different. He stayed in touch with our daughter for the entire year, praying together every night and studying the Bible with each other on FaceTime.

So when Dani said she wanted to go to Iowa — and we finally learned about this guy — well,

It’s important to note I do spoil my dogs. They are the kind of dogs that get a piece of every meal (and I wonder why they are so chunky) and sleep on the bed while I have one leg hanging off. But I understand my dogs are treated like princesses and a prince.

Dogs don’t need that, though. A stray dog wants nothing more than food, clean water, a comfortable place to lay down and maybe a

purebred dogs, the breeding would likely be lower as well. So anyone who has a purebred dog on their mind, I encourage you to at least stop by your local shelter and check out those who are begging for homes. You might find one you like just as much – or maybe more, and for a lot cheaper too.

we turned it into the Great Midwestern 10-Day Tour of 2023. We began in north Alabama then crossed the state of Tennessee from east to west. Our first stop was in Paducah, Kentucky, which is where we usually stop on band and choir trips so I was more familiar with what was there. We visited St. Francis de Sales Cathedral and happened upon a morning prayer group that gave us a tour of the building.

After Paducah, we went over to Illinois and stopped at Metropolis — home of Superman. There is a giant Superman statue in the middle of town and a really cool museum if you’re a fan of truth, justice and the American way.

From Metropolis, we worked our way up to Springfield, the state capital of Illinois, and visited the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. We spent a good amount of time at Lincoln’s tomb and followed the self-guided tour inside the museum there.

Lizi Arbogast Gwin is the man aging editor of Tallapoosa Pub lishers Inc.

After Springfield, it was off to Peoria. All I could think of was Groucho Marx’s question, “Will it play in Peoria?”

It is the quintessential midwestern town in so many ways. It looked like the newest structure was built in 1890. In fact, we stayed at the Mark Twain Hotel, which was built around that time and was the most old-school place I’ve stayed in a long while. It even had a full library in the downstairs area.

Abbey and Danielle have some friends in Peoria (they have blogged together and written fan fiction or something; I am not sure how they knew each other, but we met them there). We all went to the Peoria Riverfront Museum, which had everything from moon rocks to human hearts displayed. I was fascinated by the early music playback equipment like the Victrola that had a Styx record on it.

There was a nice surprise to the Peoria visit: we went to the Cathedral of St. Mary, which is the home of the tomb of Archbishop Fulton Sheen. Now, these days, people may not know who he was, but from the 1940s through the 1960s, he

MICHAEL BIRD Columnist

was the most famous Catholic in America. He had a TV show called “Life is Worth Living,” and millions of people would write to him or visit him.

One of our locals, Mrs. Mildred Weedon Blount, paid him a visit — and he converted her. She came back home and told her husband, Mr. Roberts Blount, about it and he, too, became Catholic. Sheen promised if they donated a piece of property to build

a Catholic parish in Tallassee, he would be here to preach at the first Mass. And on that day in 1954, television and radio networks were here to cover the opening of St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church on Gilmer Avenue because Archbishop Sheen kept his word!

After visiting this beautiful church — actually, it was beyond beautiful but I don’t have a greater word to use — we went to a Sheen-related museum beside the church, operated by a group of nuns. When I relayed the Tallassee story,

they asked me to write it down because they thought it was so cool. From Peoria, it was on to Iowa City, where the boy (space) friend resides. Iowa City is home to the University of Iowa and the legendary Kinnick Stadium. We spent the next six days and five nights there before working our way down the state of Missouri.

We’ll pick up the rest of the Iowa story next week — and it won’t be as “corny” as you might think!

Michael Bird is a music teacher for Tallassee City Schools.

new environment.

“It’s the nicest building I have ever been in, school wise,” Stewart said. “I think students will be excited about it and eager to learn. We will all take pride in this and enjoy it.”

Coach John Mask is a seasoned American government teacher at Tallassee. He also coaches wrestling and swimming. Mask’s old room was on the second floor of the timber structure of the old high school. Mask might be a veteran but he likes his new environment in the rookie school.

“It’s amazing,” Mask said. “I have had a brief walkthrough — it’s great. It’s nice and neat.”

Over the years Mask has collected a few items to supplement his teaching. Monday, he and his family were trying to figure out the best way to utilize his older materials in his brand new classroom on the first floor.

“I have plenty of things,” Mask said.

“I’m trying to make it look like a classroom. I want it to look good.”

Mask saw familiar things such as his screen for presenting lessons. There were new desks but one piece of technology amazed him — the light switch.

“I’m used to the old one that flips up and down,” Mask said. The new school’s classrooms are equipped with light switches that detect motion.

“When no one is in here, the lights will turn off,” Tallassee City Schools superintendent Dr. Brock Nolin said. The “switches” will save the school money over time through energy savings.

Tallassee media specialist Hollis Bosch is proud of the space the library has. It is shaped a little differently but she believes it will serve students well, with its chairs and conference room to work on projects.

Monday, Bosch was unboxing books. It is something she did before when she worked at Montgomery Public Schools. Bosch brought her experience to this move. She carefully loaded boxes and labeled them in such a way the unboxing goes smoothly.

“This was much easier,” Bosch said. “We

are going into a larger space.”

Erica Pettah is a new Spanish teacher at Tallassee who taught at Montgomery Public Schools last year.

“My old building I’m coming from was built in 1929,” Pettah said Monday, her first day on campus at Tallassee. “This is like heaven.”

Stewart will teach math and will help coach middle school football and junior varsity baseball — two sports he played as a Tiger just a few years ago. He is happy to be adding to the tradition at Tallassee and hopes to share his care of Tallassee with students.

“It’s an honor to come back,” Stewart said. “I’m glad to get the call to come here. I’m glad to be home and think good things will happen for everyone with the new school.”

Mask is hopeful the new school will bring new opportunities for students and the community.

“I think when the kids and community get to see it, they will love it,” Mask said. “I think it will help attract people to come here. We are tickled at what all might happen.”

• Statement of quorum

• Audit, officer and management reports

• Certification of Trustee Election

• Unfinished business

• New business

• Adjournment

SCHOOL Continued from A1

CLIFF WILLIAMS THE TRIBUNE

New Tallassee High School math teacher and Tiger alum Caleb Stewart readies his first ever classroom Monday. Stewart will also help coach middle school football and junior varsity baseball.

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COUNCIL Continued from A1

retailers and restaurants to the city. Mayor Sarah Hill said the company has been successful.

“They have brought Taco Bell, Papa Johns and there is a very concerted effort on something now,” Hill said.

Councilmember Bill Godwin said although the company has helped bring businesses to Tallassee, it is still difficult to know if the contract should be renewed for a year.

“You can’t have a crystal ball to know what you get or lose without a contract,” Godwin said. “We have to be competitive and we don’t have the time or expertise to do this for us.”

Godwin is hopeful current city projects to beautify downtown will be a positive for growth and give Retail Strategies another selling point for recruitment.

“Once we get the downtown fixed, it is an incentive for people to come,” Godwin said.

“Whether they locate downtown or elsewhere in Tallassee, I don’t want us to get the reputation that we don’t want people

SPEEDERS Continued from A1

been pulling over speeders.

“It was a big push for us,” police chief Todd Buce said. “A bunch of citizens and business owners on Gilmer were complaining nobody can get in and out onto Gilmer especially during peak times of mornings, afternoons or around lunch.”

The stretch of Gilmer Avenue and its four lanes of traffic have many entrances to businesses and houses from Five Points to Burt Mill Road. Buce said the department had responded to several accidents in the last year where speed was a contributing cause, and speed was also a contributing factor in fatal accidents the department has responded to across the city.

Speed limits are set by the Alabama Department of Transportation. The city can request changes but the decision to move the speed limit

MURDER

Continued from A1

to come.”

At the council meeting, members heard project updates from CDG engineer Jeff Harrison. CDG is helping the city with its sewage lagoon, gas projects and downtown streetscape to name a few. He said the sewer lagoon has gotten the most attention because of issues with the Alabama Department of Environmental Management.

“They are making good headway on the project,” Harrison told the council. “They are still getting a lot of the materials for the project delivered. The disinfection building is one of the big issues that the city has had in past consent orders with ADEM, that building has been placed and will be online shortly.”

Harrison said the project is expected to be completed by April 2024.

The downtown streetscape will stretch into next year as well. Harrison said utility and storm drain work is almost complete and sidewalk construction has begun. Sidewalk work on Sistrunk Avenue was underway then will move to James Street, South Ann Ave -

up or down rests with ALDOT.

Buce said he didn’t realize how much speeding was an issue until the department coordinated an orchestrated effort to slow traffic. First Buce and Lt. Jon Rawls surveyed traffic to help determine the true need for patrol. They radared traffic at three different times of the day in an area that is 35 mph in each direction.

“The first day we did it early in the morning,” Buce said. “We didn’t think we would get a whole bunch. It wasn’t like that at all. I think in the first 15 to 20 minutes we only clocked two or three that were actually using the speed limit. Everyone else was at least 5 mph above it. It was very enlightening.”

In total, they clocked more than 200 vehicles traveling 10 mph or more over the limit. Buce ordered his officers to start pulling over speeders.

“We were having 20 or so warnings during a shift on traffic stops and the next day it

Medical staff was unable to resuscitate inmate Murray and he was pronounced deceased.”

Murray was serving a 20-year prison sentence for first-degree robbery following a conviction in Montgomery County.

The ADOC Law Enforcement Services Division is currently investigating the incident with help from the FBI Mobile Field Office and the Elmore County District Attorney’s Office.

Court records state Sanders facilitated Gooden’s and Hamp -

nue and finally Barnett Boulevard.

Harrison said information about grant funding for the city’s water filter treatment plant should be known soon. Regardless of the funding, the city needs to work on the piping gallery’s fittings and bolts, according to Harrison. He also said the Little Road water line project was complete.

The council approved a conditional zoning for a home daycare on Orchard Drive. The measure was approved by Tallassee’s planning commission after issues of how to get parents to and from the property.

IN OTHER ACTION THE TALLASSEE CITY COUNCIL ALSO:

• Approved minutes of the July 11 meeting.

• Approved setting a public hearing for updating all building codes from 2006 versions to 2018 for the Aug. 22 meeting of the council. The next meeting of the Tallassee City Council is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 8.

Councilmember Terrell Brown was absent from the meeting.

would still be Talladega,” Buce said. “They just kept running up and down the road.”

Buce then pulled his officers’ discretion on traffic citations of 50 mph or more on Gilmer Avenue — still 15 mph above the posted limit. He started getting calls about being cited at 47 mph. Buce said it was still speeding. He said he personally pulled over one of the fastest on the stretch as he was passed at Taco Bell by a vehicle traveling 78 mph. He gave chase and it was nearly three quarters of a mile later before the vehicle stopped.

“She was late for school and wanted to get there,” Buce said.

In the last two weeks Buce said one of his officers clocked a vehicle going 147 mph in a 55 zone on Highway 229.

“We didn’t catch him,” Buce said. For two months of the speeding detail it hasn’t been uncommon for more than a dozen traffic citations to be written on Gilmer Avenue on any given day. One might

ton’s access to Murray.

“[Sanders] escorted two inmate co-defendants, Frederick Gooden and Stefranio Hampton, to the back gate of the facility and unlocked the cell,” the court record states.

“[Sanders] allowed the two co-defendants into the cell and the co-defendants attacked and beat the victim.”

The documents state Murray was beaten with fists and feet. They also state Sanders confessed to investigators his role in the incident.

ADOC said Murray’s cause of death is pending an autopsy and complete investigation. Sanders resigned from his

think more tickets means more funding for the police department. But Buce said the extra effort actually costs the department money. He said the state and courts collect the majority of the fine and costs assessed in a speeding ticket.

“If we have to go to court over it because we normally end up having to pay overtime somewhere,” Buce said. “Plus we lose time and money with the extra patrols to keep the speeders in check.”

Buce said traffic is starting to slow on Gilmer Avenue.

“I have had so many business owners and citizens come up to me and say, ‘I appreciate what you and your guys are doing; I feel safe trying to get out into traffic now,’” he said.

But even with the slowing traffic, Buce’s officers will remain vigilant.

“It is not a popular thing to do to enforce traffic laws,” Buce said. “It is the only way to make a concerted change.”

position with ADOC and is being held in the Elmore County Jail with no bond available to him as of Friday afternoon.

“Further charges and personnel actions are pending,” ADOC said.

Gooden, 60, is currently serving a 30-year sentence for a second-degree theft of property conviction in Jefferson County. According to court records Gooden has arrest records and convictions going back decades. Hampton, 35, is currently serving a life sentence for a first-degree robbery conviction in Montgomery County. They are both being held by ADOC.

The

Someone once told me to stay young at heart, you must keep moving and secondly you have to behave as a child.

Between four days of elementary school camp, three weeks of arts camps, one week of Vacation Bible School, and a four-day weekend of church camp, I have been moving and enjoying every moment with every child.

Part of the camps included teaching reading, drama, reactions, emotions and more. We used the book “Scribble Stones” by Diane Alber. The book is about a large pile of stones being picked, one at a time, and being used for a purpose.

We often feel a particular stone has been

and our will has been taken away. We feel much like Stone: without any purpose. Oh, but don’t give in, we have a Friend who can either move or remove our stone; He alone can make us smile again. This Friend has been in the rock business for a very long time. Jesus supplied some little rocks, put them in the hands of a shepherd boy with a slingshot and caused a giant to fall. Because of Jesus, the mighty stones were brought down and the walls of Jericho fell. He rolled away the rock sealing up the tomb. He founded His church upon the Rock!

The last rock, named Stone, was very sad because he was the last one left in the pile and he just didn’t know how he could be used. He was placed on top of a stack of papers to hold them down — a dull paper weight. Some scribbles came by drawing on papers and the pile grew so tall Stone had to hold all the papers down. The Scribbles decorated Stone and he became a beautiful paperweight. All the pretty decorated

“scribble rocks” began traveling and appearing everywhere and became lovely paper weights. It was all because Stone, the last picked stone from the pile, had a “will and a way.”

We often feel a particular stone has been in our

Tallassee Churches

path for a long time and it seems our faith has been tested and our will has been taken away. We feel much like Stone: without any purpose.

Oh, but don’t give in, we have a Friend who can either move or remove our stone; He alone can make us smile again. This Friend has been in the rock business for a very long time. Jesus supplied some little rocks, put them in the hands of a shepherd boy with a slingshot and caused a giant to fall. Because of Jesus, the mighty stones were brought down and the walls of Jericho fell. He rolled

away the rock sealing up the tomb. He founded His church upon the Rock! Genesis 28:10-22 gives reference to a memorial stone placed by Jacob. It was a pillar at Bethel to commemorate a powerful vision of God that he experienced. Do you want to guess who placed that large pillar of stone at that particular place and particular time?

Scripture tells us Jesus Christ himself is the cornerstone (Ephesians 2:1922).

If you have a particular stone in your life, remember the words of Stone, it was all because of a paper weight with ”a will and a way.” Jesus is our way.

Jackie Wilbourn is a member of Bethel Baptist Church and a chaplain with Alabama Baptist Disaster Relief Team.

Dalton MiDDleton SportS eDitor dalton.middleton@thewetumpkaherald.com

www.TallasseeTribune.com

Sports

Tallassee football to focus on run game

By HENRY ZIMMER Sports Writer

Mike Battles brought the largest contingent of players to High School Media Days on Wednesday, and it was obvious why. Battles brought five athletes, four of whom play on the both offensive and defensive lines for the Tigers, meaning he not only had the most players but also some of the biggest.

Jatwon Griffin, Brodie Ellis, Braden Arnold, Ben Carwile and Joel Holcomb flanked their coach at the podium as Battles made clear these five seniors comprise what is going to be the team’s nucleus in 2023.

“These are our core,” Battles

said. “We have a really tight senior class. These are the guys we are going to rely on. This bunch comes out to work every day and they go out and practice even when we don’t have practice. They really enjoy playing the game of football.”

Bringing four lineman was a deliberate move by the coach as Battles said the line is what makes or breaks a team.

“I really think you need to start with the offensive line and build the rest of the team around them,” Battles said.

The philosophy of the Tallassee football team in 2023 will be the same as it is every year. Starting up front, Battles’ line is going to hopefully mash its way

SUBMITTED THE TRIBUNE

LD

Johnson, left, and Torran Smith. Bell has been hired as an assistant coach at Reeltown. He’s spent the last five years with Tallassee.

Bell leaves Tallassee for Reeltown

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

LD Bell is headed home.

After five years of coaching Tallassee, Bell has accepted a coaching job with Reeltown High School.

Bell has most recently served as the girls basketball coach for Tallassee, but he’s also helped coach football, baseball and basketball at all levels.

He’s given countless hours with the varsity, JV, middle schools and the youth sports.

As of right now, he is joining as an assistant football coach and said he will coach whatever sport he is needed, at whatever level.

“It was a really tough decision,” Bell said. “I’m going to really miss these kids over here in Tallassee and I’ll miss the admin and what they did for me. But this was a family decision. My wife is already teaching over there so we sat down and talked and made this decision together. I’m excited and looking forward to working with Reeltown.”

While his family played

the biggest role in the school change, his relationship with Reeltown football and baseball coach and athletic director Matt Johnson played quite the factor in his decision.

Bell and Johnson have been close for years, and Johnson said he’s been trying to get Bell to join his coaching staff ever since Bell began coaching at Tallassee.

While their families spend time together, Bell and Johnson have also collaborated in the community. Bell started a nonprofit organization called the Star Seeds in 2016, and Johnson has supported the organization since its inception.

“Matt is a good dude and not only from a coaching standpoint,” Bell said. “He has done so much for my family and the community and he’s just one of those guys that you look forward to working with.”

As much admiration as Bell has for Johnson, the feeling is certainly reciprocated. Johnson didn’t mince words when talking about how much he admired what Bell did for

See BELL, Page B3

through a defense, creating room for his signature run game.

“Our identity is that we are going to run the football,” Battles said. “When it comes down to it, if we can’t run the football, we are not going to be successful.”

As for who will be getting the ball from the center to the backs is still an open competition.

Juniors Bryson Rigsby and Mason Battles, Battles’ son, are currently competing for the starting role. Both have limited experience, but the coach did not seem worried about naming a starter any time soon.

“We have to break in two new quarterbacks,” Battles said. “Both of them are juniors and

See FOOTBALL, Page B3

EVERSON TRANSFERS TO ELMORE COUNTY FOR SENIOR

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

Elmore County’s already dangerous offense looks to be even more explosive this season.

Cade Everson, an All-County player who starred for Tallassee last season, has transferred to Elmore County for his final high school season. Everson plays a variety of roles on the offense, including receiver, running back and even some quarterback, and Panthers coach Kyle Caldwell

SEASON

is happy to have him this year.

“The kids have accepted him and he’s competing with our kids every day in the weight room and the practice field,” Caldwell said. “He’s making our guys better and our guys are making him better. It’s a great fit.” Everson was hard to keep out of the end zone last year at Tallassee.

As a receiver, he recorded 13 catches for 203 yards and three touchdowns, which accounted for nearly 33% of Tallassee’s passing yards and

DALTON MIDDLETON | THE TRIBUNE

half of the receiving touchdowns. He did most of his work out of the backfield as he rushed 55 times for 463 yards and five more touchdowns. He added a special teams touchdown on a kickoff return and even notched 20 tackles as he played sparingly on defense.

As he suits up for the Panthers, Caldwell expects him to play the same hybrid role for his team.

“He’ll play some receiver

See EVERSON, Page B3

Elmore County’s Everson will be used in a variety of roles this season including wide receiver and running back for the Panthers.

Bell, middle, is pictured with Matt

Reeltown Youth Sports Plex has finish in sight

By HENRY ZIMMER Sports Writer

Youth athletes in Reeltown may finally have a place to compete, a project over a dozen years in

the works. Three local Reeltown coaches and dads — Bryan Lynn, Trey Lewis and Jamie Kelley — got together around 12 years ago and decided the

youth in their community needed a place to play baseball.

For too long, Reeltown’s younger members had to find time to squeeze in practices and games at Reeltown High School’s fields — or travel to neighboring cities like Tallassee or Notasulga.

The trio tried to remedy this problem by acquiring about 20 acres of land down the street from the elementary and high schools with a vision for a centralized area for youth sports.

There, they would build the Reeltown Youth Sports Plex.

But it is never that simple.

For five or so years, the small team of men cleared the land of trees and moved countless piles of dirt on their own time.

Clint Lynn, the older brother of Bryan, said the group was basically forced to do the excavating themselves, as Reeltown lacked proper companies to assist them. Hiring outside companies obviously posed a financial burden, so the men stuck to it.

After those five years, the sons of the group grew old enough to play for middle school teams, thus earning clear and consistent playtime through school.

The team still worked on the fields, handing the deed over to Reeltown’s baseball league, but it became more of a passion project than something they needed a definite time to complete.

“They kept trying to make it happen, but after their boys moved to school ball, they just could not be as involved,” Clint said.

Shortly after the trio stopped working heavily on the fields, Bryan died from a heart attack. Nine months later, Kelley also died from a heart attack.

Within the span of less than a year, two of the three visionaries for youth sports in Reeltown had died. All the while, the project they had started still needed years of work.

REVIVING

THE SPORTS PLEX PROJECT

As a result, the empty field sat dormant. The lot was a sign of hope that one day the project could become complete, but it was also a constant reminder of all that still needed to be done.

Last year, after years of pestering for the project

to be jump started again, Clint saw the project get revived and he was asked to help form the board that now oversees the Sports Plex and its development.

“Our long-term goal is to have baseball and softball and to at least give the football players a place to practice,” Clint Lynn said.

Since the formation of the board, the Sports Plex is now on track to host its first games in the spring and has given new life to a long time dream.

The complex would have never been able to set a tentative completion date without the help of those around the community and neighboring cities.

In the last six or so weeks alone, local contractors have donated equipment and time to move dirt and spread topsoil. The topsoil planted for the fields was donated by the Reeltown Dollar General.

The City of Opelika recently announced upgrades to its youth facilities and was going to tear down and discard its old fencing for its fields. Instead, the city donated fences along with posts

and infield dirt to the complex.

“I am sure some of (the fencing) will have to be replaced, but still, we are hopeful to play now,” Lynn said.

The county also pitched in through the years, as work teams moved dirt on the property to keep busy during the winter. Much of what gets done on the Sports Plex property has to be donated because the board cannot receive grant funding.

Because Reeltown is not an incorporated city, the board can receive only a 50-50 matching grant. With finding large sums of money being a constant issue, taking on a 50-50 grant is out of the question.

“If all you have is a mayor and a post office, it is easier to get a grant because there is some kind of government over it,” Lynn said. “We just do not have those funds to match.”

Even without funding, the board worked to get things ready for spring.

Before the group ever got the fencing, they began with planting the fields. On July 2, the topsoil was planted on what is going to become Field 1.

“We are babying it, watering it as best we can and praying all goes well,” Lynn said.

The adjoining field, Field 2, is about 75% complete, according to Lynn. However, just having fields doesn’t even solve half the problems.

THE CHALLENGES THAT REMAIN

For the Sports Plex to be recognized as a proper sporting location, it needs proper facilities. Mainly, the land needs bathrooms.

“Our big ticket item right now is a septic tank and a bathroom,” Lynn said. “If we can get that, we can at least play softball during the day.”

The fields do not yet have light posts to host baseball or football, a project for way down the line according to Lynn. But since youth softball is

strictly played during the day, a bathroom facility will clear them to host morning and afternoon softball games.

“We just don’t have $100,000 for lights right now,” Lynn said.

Travel is obviously an issue for youth baseball players because of having to go to Notasulga to practice and play; Clint said it is a problem he thinks the players can stomach for now.

Notasulga has not had a running youth baseball league in about four years, so the youth from Reeltown have taken over the neighboring town’s facilities.

“Probably, in our first year, we will only play softball because they have nowhere else to play,” Lynn said. “The boys will be OK eventually. Right now, the focus is on the girls. Softball has really struggled the last few years, so we are pushing right now to save softball.”

Eventually, the football teams will be able to practice at the facility during the day, instead of having to practice on RHS’s baseball field.

“They need a place to practice,” Lynn said.

Admittedly, Lynn is not doing this only for himself. He coached youth baseball in Tallassee for 12 years. Getting the Sports Plex completed is something he wants to do for his brother.

Although his younger brother will never be able to see it, the elder Lynn hopes when the complex is complete, it can stand as a testament for three dreams that have come true.

“It takes time and lots of money, but myself and the board are doing all we can to see Bryan, Jamie and Trey’s dream come to pass,” he said. “My whole purpose is to do this to fulfill the dream.”

For donations, contributions or information on how to help the Sports Plex, contact the board’s treasurer, Jennifer Kelley at jenniferkelley0@ icloud.com.

A map shows the projected layout of the Reeltown Youth Sports Plex.

FOOTBALL

Continued from B1

both of them have played a lot of football but they have not been the starting quarterback. Luckily, they have embraced it. I feel comfortable with it.”

While the offense is laden with upper class talent, there is a position group that gives Battles some pause ahead of the season: the secondary.

Tallassee had to replace players such as Dontae Leonard, James Bender and Travarious Langford in the secondary, meaning multiple positions are now being filled by younger athletes.

“We are going to be young in the secondary, and that is a little scary,” Battles siad. “They are very talented but they are young. They are going to have to get some experience.”

The Tigers competed in a few 7-on-7s this summer, notably in the Battle for Elmore County at Wetumpka. Battles said he was thankful for every snap his team got at those tournaments, as it gave his young defensive backs some much-needed time to develop.

“(The 7-on-7s) helped us because it gave us work against some really good talent,” Battles said.

Regardless of age however, Battles said the group he coaches now is one of the most enjoyable he’s ever had.

His juniors last season are now the clear leaders of the team. Each player, both young and old, has made conscious efforts to make everyone around them better.

“It is a pleasure when you have a team of guys that really enjoy the game,” Battles said.

“These guys have done a really good job of being accountable and making each guy give great effort. I am very blessed that this group really enjoys the game. I enjoy going to practice with them.”

The reason Battles said his team is so mature

Continued from B1

is because of the way it handled its losing skid last year.

The Tigers lost four straight in the heart of their season, after starting the year 2-0.

Losing to Chilton County, 24-21, in overtime was the turning point for his team, Battles said. In the locker room after that game, Battles saw a swing in his team that the group has carried over into 2023.

“We went into that locker room and I told these guys that ‘We are better than what we are showing,’” Battles said. “I think right at that moment everything turned around. Then, we started playing the kind of football we should have been playing all along. That made all the difference in the world.”

Tallassee went on to win five straight, including one win in the playoffs.

After getting a taste of consistent winning and some playoff experience, the goal for the upcoming season is to repeat last year’s success — obviously, without losing.

“Everybody’s expectations are to get back to the playoffs,” Carwile said. “We don’t plan on having a losing streak like last year. We plan on being together the whole season. We can compete with any team on our schedule.”

Arnold said in all his time in purple and yellow, he has never been around a team as dedicated to winning as this one.

“This team is probably the hardest working team I have ever been on,” Arnold said. “That is going to take us a long way.”

Getting his first year as a full-time starter, the center Holcomb echoed the sentiment of his coach and teammates.

“I have progressed a lot this year and so have these guys,” Holcomb said. “We always preach that we need to get better and get better. That will help us give us that edge and get us over that hump. I don’t think any-

and some running back,” Caldwell said. “He could even play quarterback but we don’t know yet since we still have a quarterback battle going on. He’s so versatile and he’s really smart. He’ll do whatever it takes.”

As excited as Caldwell is to see Everson on his roster, Everson is just as excited.

He believes the Panthers, who are coming off a 7-4 record and their first playoff trip in more than a decade, have the chance to make another run at it this year.

Elmore County returns nearly every offensive starter from a year ago, outside of All-County quarterback Payton Stephenson, and the defense returns plenty of star power as well such as linebacker Jackson Mann and defensive linemen Luke Reinert and Chris Holt.

Continued from B1

Tallassee’s community.

“It’s one of those things where I was seeing what LD was doing with the community and his involvement and passion with young people and it’s the exact same mission I was trying to accomplish at Reeltown,” Johnson said. “That’s who he is and who I am, and when he got into coaching at the school level, I’ve been after him about getting him to Reeltown.”

Bell has served in many roles since he started coaching five years ago. He got his start volunteering with the Tallassee JV boys basketball team. After a year, he was given the chance to be a volunteer with the middle school

ABOVE: Tallassee coach Mike Battles speaks at High School

Media Days ahead of his 12th season coaching the Tigers.Tallassee opens its season at Reeltown on Aug. 24.

BELOW: Senior Tallassee lineman Ja’Twon Griffin speaks at High School Media Days last Wednesday.

BOTTOM: Tallassee senior center Joel Holcomb speaks at High School Media Days last Wednesday.

body works as hard as we do.”

Tallassee will open its season with cross-town rival Reeltown for the fourth straight year. Battles admitted when the rivalry was renewed in 2020, he did not realize the true scope and massivity of the rivalry game.

Now, with the renewed series knotted at 2-2 and Tallassee on a two-game winning streak, Battles said the Reeltown game is his favorite game of the year.

“I did not realize that what I was stepping into was a small town Alabama against Auburn,”

“There are a lot of athletes over here who make a really good team when combined,” Everson said. “I like our quarterback situation and our coaching staff going into the year.”

In Elmore County’s first practice, Everson lined up at running back and outside receiver while Jabari Murphy, a three-star receiver with multiple SEC offers, was in the slot. Murphy had 55 catches for 793 yards and a county-high 10 touchdowns last year.

Everson will split time at running back with CJ Wilkes, who is the county’s leading rusher from a season ago. The dynamic back rushed 178 times for 1,303 yards and eight touchdowns, good for 7.3 yards per rush.

Everson believes Elmore County’s trio of skill players in addition to a veteran offensive line and role players could result in one of the best offenses in Class 5A this year.

football and baseball teams.

Soon after, he was given a job in the school system and has since coached at the varsity levels.

He will not be the head coach of any teams to start his coaching career at Reeltown but said he would be open to whatever Johnson needed him to do.

“The first thing Matt told me is that he wants me coaching sports, but he wants me doing what’s best for my family,” Bell said. “Right now, I’m going to be helping with football. I haven’t been harassing Matt on anything else and it’s all up to him and Reeltown. But I’m making myself available in any way I can. And that means I’m going to try and help with the community and youth football as well.”

As Bell gets started with the football team, he will help Reel -

Battles said. “I found that out the hard way. There is one date on my calendar where I can tell you how many days away it is. It is that one. I have been on the winning end and the losing end, and the losing end is not really fun.”

Tallassee has less than a month to figure out its quarterback position and get every last bit of experience in the secondary.

When Aug. 24 rolls around, it will be high time to hit an opponent that isn’t from Tallassee.

“It is about time to go play somebody else,” Battles said.

MIDDLETON

Cade Everson catches a pass in Elmore County’s first practice of fall camp. The senior All-County receiver is a transfer from Tallassee.

“I think we can be really dangerous,” Everson said. “I don’t think many people will be able to stop us if all three of us are firing on all cylinders at the same time.”

town prepare for its first game of the season, which is ironically against Tallassee on Aug. 24. Tallassee holds a 10-9 record over Reeltown in the all-time series, and the Tigers have won two straight. Last year’s game was a 37-13 Tallassee win and it was Reeltown’s only loss of the regular season.

“I’m ready for that game,” Bell said. “It’s a rivalry and it’s fun for the kids and the community. It’s just a game at the end of the day, but don’t get me wrong, it’s a game I want to win. I have every intention of now helping Reeltown be the best team they can be. But I know Tallassee is going to be a good team and is going to be prepared. I know all of those kids and love them and I wish them well.”

BELL

HENRY ZIMMER | THE TRIBUNE

DALTON

THE TRIBUNE

EVERSON

Tallassee youth team recognized by county commission

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

The Elmore County Commission honored a Tallassee 10U All-Star Baseball team at its Thursday meeting. The team was celebrated for winning the USSSA state championship and participating in the World Series.

The commission also approved the signing of documents to allow ALDOT to handle the construction of interaction improvements, lighting and installing a traffic signal on Highway 14 in Millbrook at the intersection of 17 Springs Boule-

vard. The work will allow easier entry into the 17 Springs complex, according to Elmore County engineer Luke McGinty. The complex consists of 12 tennis and 12 pickleball courts and four soccer fields already completed. Already under construction is a fieldhouse, stadium, track and six softball fields. Still under development is a commercial district.

IN OTHER ACTION THE ELMORE COUNTY COMMISSION:

• Approved minutes of the July 10 meeting.

Humane Society of Elmore County News

• Approved the memorandum of warrants totaling $3,524,766.19 for the period June 25 through July 15.

• Reminded of public hearings at 5 p.m. Aug. 14 for consideration of vacating portions of Neely Road and Lakeshore Court.

• Appointed Lucretia Cauthen to the Elmore County Board of Equalization.

• Renewed a contract with the Humane Society of Elmore County.

The next meeting of the Elmore County Commission is scheduled for 5 p.m. Monday, Aug. 14.

Vaccinations can save pets’ lives

By REA CORD HSEC Executive Director

August is National Immunization Awareness Month and just like with us, it is very important to keep your pets up to date on their vaccinations. The greatest form of protection against the many illnesses your pet can get is by vaccinating them. We strongly recommend taking your pet to your veterinarian annually and having all necessary vaccinations done based on their advice to keep them protected.

There are some vaccinations that are considered core Vaccinations and absolutely should be done to provide protection from life threatening diseases. The American Animal Hospital Association recommends the following as core vaccines for dogs: rabies, parvovirus, distemper, adenovirus and parainfluenza. For cats they recommend rabies, feline panleukopenia, feline calicivirus, feline herpesvirus-1 and feline leukemia.

Rabies vaccination of dogs, cats and ferrets is also a law in most states as rabies can also kill humans. People here in the USA feel safe from rabies because it is a requirement to vaccinate pets which has tremendously reduced the threat of rabies to humans. But rabies is here and is an endemic disease of many wildlife

species so we must stress how important it is for your pets to be kept current on their rabies vaccination. And no, you cannot go purchase or do rabies vaccination yourself.

By law, rabies vaccinations can be administered by only licensed veterinarians for very good reasons. These trained professionals will ensure the source of their vaccine is good; they will ensure the vaccine is stored properly and administered properly. That is why you get a certificate with a date, vaccine manufacturer, lot number and the veterinarian’s signature, and why many counties will offer rabies clinics once or twice a year so as to protect both animals and humans. Be grateful we have a way to protect our pets and humans from this very ugly disease.

Other vaccinations might be necessary based on where you live geographically if your pet is exposed to diseases based on activity or if your pet is going to be boarded in a commercial facility around many other pets.

In some parts of the United States, lyme disease is a greater threat than in other areas. Leptospirosis can be a bigger concern with hunting dogs or dogs that roam woods and around bodies of water, and most all boarding facilities require Bordatella vaccination for dogs. And as more scientific dis-

coveries are made, there will likely be more vaccines available to help protect our pets from existing or emerging diseases.

That’s why it is important for your vet to see your pet at least annually so they can apprise you of any new threats and potential protections.

Puppies and kittens generally get their first vaccinations at 8 weeks old but your veterinarian may alter this based on the history of the mother dog and her vaccination status. One set of puppy vaccinations is also not enough and your veterinarian will tell you when to bring them back for follow-up vaccinations.

It is vital puppies and kittens get all of the vaccinations according to your veterinarian to fully protect them. Once they complete all their vaccinations as puppies and kittens, they then may be able to go to vaccinations just once/year or perhaps even every three years based on many factors like known vaccination status, age, overall health, lifestyle, future plans, legal requirements, etc. Your veterinarian knows best so please follow their advice; your pets will live longer and healthier lives as a result.

Rea Cord is the executive director of the Humane Society of Elmore County.

Sewell fundraiser to feature Tim Tebow

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

The board of the Joe Sewell Memorial Award is hosting Tim Tebow for a fundraiser next week.

Tebow will speak at the Montgomery Performing Arts Centre to help the board raise funds in an effort to increase the annual scholarship awards. Tebow was a Heisman Trophy winner at the University of Florida and has gone on to create a large national nonprofit organization, the Tim Tebow Foundation. The foundation has helped create events for special needs individuals as well as traditional ministry work across the world.

Joe Sewell Memorial Award board chair Chas Worthy said the organization hopes everyone will support young people attending the event and purchase lower ticket prices through group rates.

“We really want youth groups, church groups, little league teams, middle school teams and high school teams to come,” Worthy said. “We want coaches to bring their teams.

I believe he has a great message to share with everyone.”

Currently, tickets are available through Ticketmaster or the MPAC box office for as low as $28. Groups of more than 10 can purchase tickets for $10 off by using the code TEAM10. Tebow will speak for an hour and participate in a question-and-answer session.

Worthy said the board wanted to bring Tebow in an effort to increase fundraising efforts across the region.

“Traditionally the funds for the scholarship have come from Elmore County families and businesses,” Worthy said. “With the increase in scholarships we are trying to get to, we are trying to create a more regional event.”

Worthy said getting Tebow to the event is great and the board wants to keep the level of guests in the future.

“We want Christian athletes in leadership roles who serve the community,” Worthy said. “We are very fortunate to start with a really good one.”

According to the Joe Sewell Memorial Award website, it is named

after one of Elmore County’s professional athletes who displayed leadership and Christian character both on the field and in his home community of Titus. Sewell still owns two of Major League Baseball’s records for the fewest strikeouts for a single season in both 1930 and 1932. He also holds the lifetime record of fewest strikeouts during his 14 year career. “While he excelled on the field, Sewell was known as a quiet man of character and conviction who gave back to his community as often as he could,” the website states.

Worthy said the purpose of the Joe Sewell Memorial Award is to recognize outstanding high school senior athletes who consistently represented the highest ideals of Christian leadership and emulate the character of Joe Sewell. Each participating high school nominates up to four senior students for this award. Currently, male and female overall award winners receive a $3,000 John Sewell Scholarship. One male and one female are also selected as category winners in four categories and each is awarded a $1,000 scholarship.

CLIFF WILLIAMS THE TRIBUNE

The Elmore County Commission recognized the Tallassee 10U USSSA All Star baseball team. The team won the state championship and participated in the World Series.

Cooling off hot readers

FIRST YEAR OF CANCER

month and finished her first year as a cancer patient. Kayla said Madison loves playing on her tablet, spending time with her sisters and her favorite food is peanut butter sandwiches.

The type of brain tumor Madison has is very rare. It’s called Embryonal Tumor CNS Neuroblastoma. With this tumor, the medical community doesn’t categorize it in stages or use the term in remission. Rather doctors say the tumor is stable and this past year Madison’s tumor has been stable.

CLIFF WILLIAMS THE TRIBUNE

More than 4,000 books were read by more than 80 children throughout the summer reading program at the Tallassee Community Library. What better way to celebrate than cooling off with water?

The Tallassee Fire Department came out to cool the children down last Wednesday as an end-of-summer celebration, complete with pizza. This summer, 12 children read 100 or more books according to Tallassee Community Library director Margaret Lumpkin. She even took part, holding the hands of less confident children as water fell from the sky.

In 2022, Kayla took Madison in for a standard neurologist appointment during which the doctor noticed droopiness on the right side of Madison’s face. An MRI found a mass. That same day, Kayla and Madison rushed to Children’s of Alabama in Birmingham, where it was confirmed Madison had a tumor.

Two days after school started that year, Madison went in for her first brain surgery. While they were sent home with antibiotics and an implanted port that was regularly attended to, Madison caught meningitis and E. coli. Kayla said infections are the big risk for Madison.

Since then, she has had two additional brain surgeries. Madison has been home for the last eight months and is going strong.

Kayla said the family is all excited this year because Madison will be going back to school.

Madison is entering the third grade and will be in a special needs class at Tallassee Elementary School. With her developmental delays, she doesn’t recognize colors or numbers, but she can count and can sing the ABCs. Kayla said right now Madison is learning how to write her name.

Going to school, Madison will have some restrictions. She can’t go out in the heat so she will be

staying inside during the summer weather. She also is in a wheelchair right now, and she is learning to walk again with ankle-foot orthoses.

Additionally, Madison wears a helmet when she is not at home. Due to an infection during one of the brain surgeries, the doctors took out a piece of bone from her skull and the helmet is used as a precaution.

MADDY STRONG

In addition to the surgeries, Madison also went through radiation and chemotherapy — finishing both in November 2022. Kayla said in the beginning they had a lot of doctors’ appointments.

At this point it comes in

waves and August will be a heavy month of appointments. Although Madison does have a routine MRI every three months to monitor the tumor and has regular trips to Children’s of Alabama.

Supporting Madison through her cancer journey, Kayla started making decals and T-shirts that say #maddystrong. Kayla said she wants people to hear Madison’s story and know the signs of brain cancer. If you notice drooping on one side of the face, she said don’t take it lightly.

“Talk to the doctor and really push for that MRI, with and without contrast, because it could be nothing, but it could be something serious and

in Madison’s case, it was something serious,” Kayla said.

So far, the decals and T-shirts have been purchased by family members, people in Tallassee and those in other parts of Alabama, Georgia and Texas. Kayla started a Facebook group called Dare To Dazzle By Kayla for those who wish to support and purchase Maddy Strong goods.

The decals are $5, and T-shirts are $10 to $12 with sizes small through 2XL.

In Kayla’s Facebook post introducing the decals, she said Madison is one of the strongest kids she knows and she’s “going to kick this cancer in the butt.”

STRONG

Lake River & Classi eds

ABIGAIL MURPHY | THE OBSERVER

The Lake Martin Songwriters Festival took place all over the lake this weekend, including at The Social in Eclectic. Emma Zinck was one of several musicians to take the stage during the concert Saturday.