Tallassee Tribune Aug. 16 2023

Tallassee couple arrested for leaving baby at Walmart

By WILLIAM MARLOW Multimedia Reporter

Questions still surround the incident that occurred at Alexander City’s Walmart on Wednesday.

A couple has been arrested this week after leaving their baby at Walmart. According to Alexander City Police Department captain Durell

Alford, husband and wife Larry Epstein, 33, and Ashley Epstein, 32, both of Tallassee, were arrested Tuesday after an infant was found alone in a shopping cart at Walmart.

Both are charged with endangering the welfare of a child

CLIFF WILLIAMS | THE TRIBUNE

Reeltown students served teachers at the 14th Annual Teachers Appreciation Luncheon on Saturday.

following the incident. Because the investigation is still ongoing, law enforcement did not say whether the incident was intentional or the motive behind it if not. However, ACPD Sgt. Drew Machen, who is the lead investigator on the case, said the cou-

ple were the parents of the infant. Alford said both were transported into Tallapoosa County Jail as of Thursday and were awaiting court. Machen said the two will be eligible for bond but was uncertain of their bond statuses as of Friday.

ACPD patrol officers initially

14 YEARS AND COUNTING

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

M ore than 14 years ago

Dottie Carnes had an idea — to help teachers with supplies. Saturday teachers gathered for the 14th annual Beulah Baptist Church teacher appreciation luncheon. All say it started with Dottie Carnes.

By ABIGAIL MURPHY Multimedia Reporter

Decorating sugar cookies is one way to spend a Saturday afternoon.

Owner of Riverview Harvest and Sweets Patti Washer is hosting

“This is not done by me,” Carnes said. “This is done by so many hands. I might do the running but that is it.”

The humble Carnes gives others the credit but it was her vision years ago.

“I started it as a ministry through my church — Beulah Baptist Church 14 years See LUNCHEON, Page B2

a sugar cookie decorating class from 1 to 3 p.m. on Aug. 31 at the Tallassee Public Library. The class will include all the supplies needed with four sugar cookies and royal icing. During the class, Washer will explain step-by-step how to dec-

orate each cookie as well as have a Q&A at the end. Plus, attendees will take home a cookie recipe so they can make more in the future. Washer has been baking nearly all her life and started her business Dual

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

Students are graduating from Tallassee High School and in some cases they are almost college sophomores.

Tallassee students are taking to dual enrollment more and more as staff expand the options. It allows students to earn credits from the same class towards high school graduation while at the same taking the class for college credit. Tallassee started the program eight years ago initially through Trenholm State Community College in Montgomery.

“We had some participation; our numbers were in the 20s,” Tallassee City Schools dual enrollment coordinator Keith McNaughton said. “We worked with them for about three years or so.”

Tallassee graduate Wilfred Holt worked at Trenholm and, according to McNaughton, helped develop the partnership.

When Holt retired about three years ago, McNaughton and other administra-

tors wanted to grow the dual enrollment program at Tallassee. Southern Union Community College joined Tallassee High School in offering college courses to high school students.

“We started offering both academic and technical classes,” McNaughton said. “The academic classes just took off. Kids realized the opportunity that was available to them.”

Tallassee students involved in dual enrollment doubled.

“We jumped again when Dr. [Brock] Nolin came on board as superintendent,” McNaughton said. “He and the board of education realized the opportunity to invest in our kids.”

The system is now sponsoring one class per year at a cost of $498.

“Last year they established a local Tallassee City Schools dual enrollment scholarship for any student that will take the class,” McNaughton said. “Some students are even applying for scholarships from the school to help

Obituaries

WILLIAM M. “BILLY” THOMPSON

Mr. William M. “Billy” Thompson, a resident of Tallassee, Alabama, passed away Wednesday, August 9, 2023, at the age of 90. He was born April 12, 1933 in Tallapoosa County, Alabama.

Mr. Thompson is survived by his daughter, Beverly Scroggins (Harry); grandchildren, Shawn Cox, Ryan Bubba Carlisle (Jackie), Shane Scroggins (Candace), Brandi McGinn (Mike) and Andy Scroggins (Claire); great grand-

Police Reports

TALLASSEE POLICE DEPARTMENT

AUG. 14

• Assistance was given to a citizen on Eighth Street.

• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Notasulga Road.

• An intoxicated person was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

AUG. 13

• Suspicious activity was reported on Highway 229.

• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Powers Avenue Extension.

• Unauthorized use of a vehicle was reported on Pemberton Road.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Gilmer Avenue.

• Trespassing was reported on Jordan Avenue.

• Assistance was given during a medical call on Grimes Street.

• A domestic dispute was reported on West Gantts Mill Road.

• Harassment was reported on Blossom Circle.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Highway 229.

• Burglary was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• A domestic dispute was reported on West Gantts Mill Road.

• Harassment was reported on Barnett Boulevard.

• Assistance was given during a medical call on Fourth Street.

• A disorderly subject was reported on Fourth Street.

• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

AUG. 12

• A civil disturbance was reported on Quail Crossing.

• An intoxicated person was reported on Third Avenue.

• A civil disturbance was reported on Log Circle.

• Debris was reported in the roadway on Central Boulevard.

• Menacing was reported on Macedonia Road.

• Trespassing was reported on Macedonia Road.

children, Cheyenne Dicks (Jacob), Dustin Cox (Shelby), Sydney Carlisle, Brittan McGinn, Cassidy Carlisle, Michael McGinn, Elsie Scroggins, Lou Scroggins and Sarah Blaine McGinn and greatgreat-grandchild, Stetson Dicks. He is preceded in death by his wife of seventy years, Sarah Anne Thompson; his parents, L. M. Thompson and Eunice Booth and his grandson, Blaine Carlisle. He was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather – a true family

Street.

• A domestic dispute was reported on Riverside Avenue.

• An animal complaint was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• A Black male was arrested on Washington Street.

• Debris was reported in the roadway on Riverside Avenue.

AUG. 11

• A juvenile complaint was reported on Central Boulevard.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Gilmer Avenue.

• An animal complaint was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• A Black male was arrested on Freeman Avenue.

• A welfare check was conducted on Gilmer Avenue.

• Trespassing was reported on Hillcrest Avenue.

• A white male was arrested on Freeman Avenue.

• A white female was arrested on Freeman Avenue.

• Assistance was given to a citizen on Barnett Boulevard.

• Assistance was given to a citizen on Dixie Circle.

• A motor vehicle accident with no injuries was reported on Friendship Road.

• Animal control was requested on Gilmer Avenue.

AUG. 10

• A juvenile complaint was reported on Dorman Avenue.

• Assistance was given to another agency on Frog Hollow Drive.

• A welfare check was conducted on Preer Street.

• A fight in progress was reported on Gen. Chappy James Street.

• Animal control was requested on Macedonia Road.

• Animal control was requested on Ashurst Avenue.

• Animal control was requested on Sims Avenue.

• A motor vehicle accident with no injuries was reported on Cherry Street.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Friendship Road.

man and a sincere southern gentleman. The family will receive friends Sunday, August 13, 2023 from 1:00PM until service time at 2:00PM at Jeffcoat Funeral Home Chapel. Online condolences are available at: www.jeffcoatfuneralhome. com.

Jeffcoat Funeral Home Directing Tallassee, Alabama

requested on Sims Avenue.

• A noise complaint was reported on East Patton Street.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Gilmer Avenue. AUG. 9

• Harassing communications was reported on Hillcrest Street.

• Harassing communications was reported on Gladys Street.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Gilmer Avenue

• A welfare check was conducted on Macedonia Road.

• Burglary was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• Animal control was requested on Sims Avenue.

• A welfare check was conducted on East Patton Street.

• A motor vehicle accident with no injuries was reported on Friendship Road.

• Animal control was requested on Jordan Avenue.

• Theft was reported on Dixie Circle.

• A welfare check was conducted on John Street.

• Harassment was reported on Notasulga Road.

• Assistance was given to a citizen on Gilmer Avenue.

• Animal control was requested on Sims Avenue.

• Assault was reported on Ricky Lane.

• Animal control was requested on South Dubois Street.

• A white male was arrested on Oak Heights Road. AUG. 8

• A prowler was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Gilmer Avenue.

• An abandoned vehicle was reported on Central Boulevard.

• Criminal mischief was reported on Hillcrest Street.

• A motor vehicle accident was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• Assistance was given to a citizen on Riverside Avenue.

• Violation of a protection order was reported on James Street.

given to a motorist on Friendship Road.

• A burglary was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Highway 14. AUG. 7

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Gilmer Avenue.

• Animal control was requested on Gilmer Avenue.

• Animal control was requested on John Street.

• A white male was arrested on Barnett Boulevard.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Gilmer Avenue.

• A suspicious person was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• A suspicious person was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• A motor vehicle accident was reported on East Roosevelt Drive.

• Animal control was requested on Barnett Boulevard.

• A welfare check was conducted on Cricket Ridge.

• A Black male was arrested on Barnett Boulevard.

• An animal complaint was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• The roadway was reported blocked on Carr Circle.

• Theft was reported on Riverside Avenue.

• A Black male was arrested on Barnett Boulevard.

WETUMPKA POLICE DEPARTMENT

AUG. 5

• Criminal mischief was reported on U.S. Highway 231.

• Theft was reported on Micanopy Street. AUG. 4

• Identity theft was reported on Ross Road.

• Domestic violence was reported on East Micanopy Street. AUG. 1

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

JULY 30

• Harassment was reported on Osceola Street.

JULY 27

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

JULY 26

• Assistance was given during a medical call on Worthington Circle.

• Theft by deception was reported on Herbert

responded to the incident Tuesday, after which the infant was transported to Russell Medical for a welfare check. According to the police department, the infant was then transported to another medical facility for care.

“The arrests have been made on the (investigation), and the case is closed,” he said.

• Animal control was requested on Gilmer Avenue.

• Animal control was requested on Gilmer Avenue.

• Animal control was

• Animal control was requested on South Dubois Street.

• A suspicious person was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• Assistance was

last year. She said a cookie decorating class like this is how she first got started.

“I wanted to branch out and help other people learn,” Washer said.

“It’s a fun activity for a couple hours. I thought it would be fun to share that with other people.”

One day, Washer stopped by to see if the library would let her host the class there, especially since the building has a big room with tables near the kid’s section. Luckily, the library agreed and since ot isn’t

• Harassment was reported on Margate Loop.

JULY 17

• Domestic violence was reported on U.S. Highway 231.

charging her for the space, she can keep the registration cost lower.

Washer said generally for classes like this she sees them go for $60, but her class is only $35. She hopes by keeping the price lower, more people will be able to come and enjoy.

“I hope they enjoy making cookies and possibly start doing it themselves,” Washer said. “I also want to get my name out there and hopefully teach more classes.”

The cookie class is available for ages 10 and up. Registration and payment are due by Aug. 24. People can sign up by calling 334-414-8421 or emailing Pteel3054@gmail.com.

Humane Society of Elmore County News

Bark in the Park is coming soon

By REA CORD HSEC Executive Director

We’re only a month away from our 17th Annual Bark in the Park at Fort Toulouse from noon to 4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 17 — rain date is the following week.

We have adjusted to an earlier start time this year and will wrap up earlier so for our longtime attendees, don’t forget this change. We look forward to a huge crowd of both humans and dogs enjoying the afternoon at Fort Toulouse and there will be plenty of vendors, activities, microchip clinic, refreshments, demonstrations, Patriotic 2023 Bark in the Park T-Shirt (still $15) and a day of fun at the park.

There will be plenty to do and see at Bark in the Park — vendors, food, demonstrations, microchip clinic, nlessing of the pets, a pet parade, Bark in the Park T-shirts and a great selection of pet and other great silent auction items.

We will have numerous vendors with pet products, groups and information, crafts,

sweets, local businesses and more.

Vendors will be set up under the trees and around the pavilion area and plenty of time for more vendors to join us. Bark in the Park is a great place for folks to be able to learn about your business, product or service. We welcome local businesses, clubs, civic groups, etc. Our vendor fee is only $40 and you must bring your own tables/ pop-up/chairs. There is no electricity available so if you must bring a generator please let us know for site planning. You can do our vendor application/payment online. If you prefer us to email you the letter and forms in PDFs for printing, email us at hselco@bellsouth.net, or message us on our shelter Facebook page.

Our Blessing of the Pets will be followed by our always popular Parade of Pets. After all, who doesn’t like showing off their beloved pet? During the pet parade secret judges will be scouting out dogs for fun prizes — biggest, smallest, best costume and more.

There will be a vari -

e ty of silent auction items (pet and otherwise) in the pavilion so something for everyone. All auction items must be paid for and picked up at the end of the auction. If a person is the highest bidder but is not present when the auction ends, we will move to the next highest bidder present. We will be able to take payment via cash, check, credit or debit.

Microchips can be critical to reuniting lost pets and to help keep more pets safe, bring your dog to Fort Toulouse where it can be chipped.

From 1 to 3 p.m. and for only $25, which includes the registration, you can get your pet microchipped thanks to the Tuskegee College of Veterinary Medicine.

Make sure to stop near the pavilion at Fort Toulouse to purchase your 2023 Bark in the Park T-shirt for $15. We are most appreciative of the sponsors for our T-shirt and we love this year’s ameri-pets patriotic theme. We always have some delectable baked goodies as well and

Sabrina is a 2-year old female brown & white tabby. She is declawed on her front paws, so she can be indoor only. She is great with children but a tad persnickety with everyone else. Sabrina likes to rule her domain so she’d be best in a home with no or just one or two other pets. She is a very laid-back lady and will nibble on your fingers. The Humane Society

of Elmore County’s adoption fees are $100 for dogs and $50 for cats under 1 year old. Cats over 1 can be adopted by approved adopters for a fee of their choosing. This adoption fee covers the mandatory spay or neuter, basic immunizations, deworming, microchip, heartworm check for dogs, rabies vaccination if old enough and a free health exam with your participating

veterinarian. If you are interested in meeting 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 334567-3377 and the website is www.elmorehumane.org.

who doesn’t like homemade sweets. Admission to Bark in the Park is $5/person for those 13 and older. All dogs coming to Bark in the Park

must be good in public, meaning good around children, adults and other dogs in a very busy situation, and they must have a current rabies tag/proof of

rabies vaccination to come to the park.

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

Pet of the Week - Sabrina

Tallassee Talks

The Band one of the greatest of all time

GObituaries: 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.

reil Marcus of Rolling Stone magazine, writing in 1975, described The Band as “committed to the very idea of America: complicated, dangerous, and alive. Their music gave us a sure sense that the country was richer than we had guessed.”

That statement is absolutely true. The Band had a mythology from the beginning. Nobody really knew the members’ identities at first. They had spent years as road warriors The Hawks, backing rock and roll wild man Ronnie Hawkins as he blasted across North America in a pre-Beatles 1960s. Plucked from obscurity, they emerged as the backup band when Bob Dylan decided to go electric in 1965, surviving a tour on which their lives (and livelihoods) were threatened.

It seemed, though, The Band could do it all. They were comfortable being a tight rock and roll band, even a bar band. But they could also dig deeper than the basics to become more thoughtful, more experimental.

Robbie Robertson, the primary songwriter and lead guitarist for The Band, spent the past few decades as the keeper of the legacy of the group. While it was most definitely not “his” band — there were five guys who made it happen — Robertson’s style as a player and substance as a songwriter cemented the ensemble’s reputation as roots music pioneers.

When Robertson passed away last week, I revisited The Band’s recorded output and various documentary films about them. They were perhaps the greatest lineup of musicians ever assembled. Each member of the group played multiple instruments, wrote songs, and had an encyclopedic knowledge of

music history and theory. And they could rock.

Quite a feat for four Canadians and a guy from Arkansas.

Richard Manuel (vocals, keyboards, drums, a multitude of other instruments); Garth Hudson (keyboards and every woodwind or brass instrument known to man); Robbie Robertson (guitar, vocals); Rick Danko (vocals, bass, and anything else with a string on it); and Levon Helm (drums, vocals, and also any type of stringed instrument) were either so anonymous — or so good — only one name suited them: The Band.

The recording of their first two albums at a rented house called Big Pink in Woodstock, New York during 1968 and 1969 seemed to be everything a musician could ever hope for: deep collaboration, fine musicianship, a shared sensibility of what needed to be said and done with the songs and arrangements. They also had a sympathetic producer in John Simon who helped to arrange the songs, engineering the recordings as if they came from an unearthed 19th century hymnal.

Had they never recorded nor performed again after those first two records — loaded with classics such as “The Weight,” “Tears of Rage,” “Rag Mama Rag,” “King Harvest Has Surely Come,” “Up on Cripple Creek,” “I Shall Be Released,” “This Wheel’s On Fire,” “Unfaithful Servant” and others — their reputation would have been

cemented as purveyors of roots music, or the Americana genre, before it existed.

Robertson had such a way with a story. It was like these guys were living in some other time and sending messages through history. A great example is the protagonist of “The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down”: Virgil Caine, suffering the indignities of the last days of the Civil War, tries to make sense of all that’s happening in the verses:

“Virgil Kane is the name and I served on the Danville train

‘Till Stoneman’s cavalry came and tore up the tracks again

In the winter of ‘65 we were hungry, just barely alive By May the 10th, Richmond had fell, it’s a time I remember oh so well

Back with my wife in Tennessee when one day she called to me

“Virgil, quick, come see, there goes Robert E. Lee!”

Now, I don’t mind chopping wood, and I don’t care if the money’s no good You take what you need and you leave the rest but they should never have taken the very best

Like my father before me, I will work the land

And like my brother above me who took a Rebel stand

He was just 18, proud and brave, but a Yankee laid him in his grave I swear by the mud below my feet you can’t raise a Caine back up when he’s in defeat.

Ralph J. Gleason, writing a review in Rolling Stone at the time of the song’s release, said: “Nothing I have read … has brought

This summer, President Joe Biden traveled across our great country touting the success of what he calls “Bidenomics.”

I’ve got news for the president. The American people aren’t buying what he’s selling. Two thirds of the American people disapprove of Biden on the economy and three out of four Americans say our country is on the wrong track.

Economists aren’t buying it either. Most economists think we’re going to have a recession within the next year; Fitch just downgraded the U.S. credit rating for the first time in history; and the U.S. deficit is the third highest ever. This ought to ring alarm bells for everybody who cares about this country.

I agree with the American people: Bidenomics has been a disaster for the people of this country.

When Biden took office, the economy was ready to take off. We were opening back up after the pandemic. The Congressional

Budget Office said the economy didn’t need any stimulus and that the economy would fully recover within just a few months.

Biden didn’t listen. He signed the biggest stimulus bill in history.

Biden spent $2 trillion we didn’t need. It wasn’t paid for — that $2 trillion went straight to the national debt, which is now at a recordhigh $32 trillion. Even the Democrats’ own experts warned them not to do this.

President Barack Obama’s economic advisor Jason Furman said, “I don’t know any economist who was advocating for a spending bill that size.” Former treasury secretary Larry Summers predicted it would cause inflation. He was quickly proved right.

A month after Democrats passed their spending bill, inflation started going up until it hit the highest level in 40 years. In total, prices are 14% higher than they were when Biden took office. That means we’ve all lost about one out of every six dollars in our wallets and our savings accounts since Biden took office. Gas prices are still up by more than a dollar a gallon. The price of diesel is raising costs for farmers across Alabama and America — and that’s driving up the cost of food.

Biden’s inflation has cost the average American family more than $8,000 since he took office. Americans’ credit card debt recently hit a record $1 trillion. More and more people are tapping into savings or borrowing money to stay afloat. This is inflation that could have been prevented but, unfortunately, because of Biden and congressional Democrats, it was purposely

MICHAEL BIRD Columnist

TOMMY TUBERVILLE Columnist

Council recognizes summer athletic champions

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

Three different athletic teams were celebrated by the Tallassee City Council at its Tuesday meeting.

The 10U USSSA Baseball team, the 8U USSSA Softball team and the Tiger Shark Swim Team were all called before the council. The 10U team won a state championship. The 8U team did as well. The swim team had more than 50 qualify for the district meet and 22 for the state meet.

Councilmembers noted the accomplishment was special because the team only swims two months of the year, while competing against teams who swim year around.

The council also reappointed municipal court judge Linda Benson.

Mayor Sarah Hill said city staff were working on the fiscal year 2024 budget and should present a draft of it to councilmembers before the next council meeting.

IN OTHER ACTION THE TALLASSEE CITY COUNCIL:

• Approved the minutes from the July 25 meeting.

• Introduced an ordinance to update building codes.

• Granted permission to apply for a no match grant to fund another K9 unit at the Tallassee Police Department.

The Tallassee City Council is scheduled to meet again at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 22.

TOP: Members of the Tallassee All American Youth 8U Softball team were recognized by the Tallassee City Council for their efforts over the summer.The team placed fourth in the World Series.

ABOVE: Members of the Tallassee USSSA 10U baseball team were recognized by the Tallassee City Council for their efforts over the summer.

BELOW: Members of the Tallassee Swim Shark team were recognized by the Tallassee City Council for their efforts over the summer. The team is only able to swim about two months a year but competes against teams who swim year around.

Continued from A1

with other classes.”

As to the local funding of college classes, McNaughton feels Tallassee is doing something unique.

“We are the only school that does anything like that,” McNaughton said. “It is local funding. We are investing right into our home town kids.”

Last school year 65 students took 179 college courses. This year 77 students of the approximately 500 students at Tallassee High School are on pace to complete more than 220 college classes. In most cases students never leave the high school campus. Teachers are either already there or adjunct teachers are brought in.

“Mrs. Gosch who used to teach at Southside Middle School,” McNaughton said. “She retired and taught at Alabama State.

We asked her to be an adjunct teacher to teach U.S. History 1 and 2 here. We started that last year.”

Currently dual enrollment classes offered on campus at Tallassee center around English and History. A junior can take English 101 the first

semester and get credit for 11th Grade English. The second semester, he or should could take English 102 and get credit for 12th Grade English. It works much the same way for history.

“We have two sessions per day,” McNaughton said. “We have about 44 students so we spilt it down the middle into two classes. On Monday and Wednesdays students will meet for an hour and half in the morning for the history classes. Tuesday and Thursdays is English day with the same rotation to keep the kids in the same time slot.”

Some students will take art appreciation or psychology online working with an instructor on the Southern Union campus.

McNaughton said the English, history combination in the junior year can bring even more options to students.

“It opens up their schedule for their senior year to grab other classes,” McNaughton said. “We have a couple students taking a science. They have to go to campus to take it.”

High school students who are taking an average of three college courses before they graduate are

getting ahead and more prepared for harder classes.

“The students who are grabbing these courses and getting 18 to 21 hours, when they get to the full campus, they are not taking 16 and 17 hours,” McNaughton said. “They are taking 12 and 13 hours. If they have a hard class like calculus or chemistry, they are able to focus better on those courses.”

One Tallassee student took five college courses last year. While it might

seem advantageous to take as many college classes as possible while in high school, McNaughton said students need to make sure it doesn’t lock them out of other opportunities once they get to college.

“We have to be careful they don’t exceed the hour requirement when they apply for scholarships,” McNaughton said.

“Now we are calling institutions’ admission offices to see how many hours they can max out at. It is

Make a splash

CLIFF WILLIAMS THE TRIBUNE

Central Alabama Community Foundation awards grants at The Kelly

TPI STAFF Staff Report

The Central Alabama Community Foundation (CACF) awarded $123,640.00 in grants to 18 River Region nonprofits that support education initiatives in Montgomery, Lowndes, Macon, Autauga and Elmore counties.

The Education Grants being awarded are part of the Family Wellness and Education Grant Cycle that CACF manages. Funds from these grants will go directly toward assisting many citizens.

Listed below are the nonprofit organizations

that received grants from CACF and its two affiliates, Autauga Area Community Foundation and Elmore County Community Foundation, at an Aug. 9 grant ceremony at The Kelly in Wetumpka.

• $5,200 to Boys & Girls Clubs of the River Region to purchase musical instruments and music lessons to expand the capacity of the Chisholm Club’s musical program that meets twice weekly with musical instructors.

• $15,000 to Common Ground Montgomery to support the costs of teachers serving 100 students in the MAP Youth Navigation Afterschool Program and Summer Enrichment Program administered by Mercy House at the Common Ground facility in the Washington Park community.

• $5,000 to Gateway Baptist Church to support the costs of the HOPES After School Tutoring Program that serves students and their families referred by Capitol Heights Middle School.

• $7,500 to Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama to provide membership fees for 200 girls in Lowndes and Macon counties and 100 girls in Montgomery County participating in school-based Girl Scouts leadership programming.

• $6,050 to Girls on the Run of the River Region to provide the direct costs of implementing two teams serving students at Montgomery County Title I schools with a program that includes a curriculum blending physical activity with life skill development and culminates in completing a celebratory 5K run at the end of both seasons.

• $5,690.00 to Hope House Montgomery to support the costs of educational and community-building activities serving the Highland Park community with a focus on Highland Avenue Elementary School students participating in the Afterschool Reading Tutoring Program, Summer Activity Days and Community T-shirt Design Contest.

• $15,000 to Hope Inspired Ministries (HIM) to support the costs of the career coach position serving HIM’s Lowndes County site through extensive case management, addressing students’ barriers to employment, and facilitating the Alabama Career Essentials certificate process

• $5,000 to The Ingram State Technical Foundation to provide 10 graduating students with tools and safety equipment needed to begin work following

their release from prison.

• $11,500 to MBA Community Ministries, Inc. to support the costs of the Second Chance Homeschool based in the Highland Gardens community and serving students of Mixtec descent who face language and other barriers in mainstream educational settings that lead to a high drop-out rate.

• $10,200.00 to That’s My Child to provide scholarships for 34 students to participate in the Teen to Work Program that includes a four-week curriculum teaching soft and hard skills needed to enter the workforce, a five-week training course at That’s My Dog Jr. restaurant and a final phase of connecting students to employers.

AUTAUGA AREA COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

• $2,500 to Alabama PALS to support the costs of implementing the Alabama Clean Campus Program in Autauga County schools.

• $2,500 to Alabama Wildlife Federation to provide for 156 students at Autauga County School to participate in a full-day field trip at the Alabama Nature Center.

• $2,500 to Autauga County Family Support Center to purchase 250 interactive training workbooks for Stewards of the Children, a child sexual abuse prevention training program that seeks to educate and engage a network of vigilant residents in the Autauga County community.

• $2,500 to Autauga-Prattville Public Library to purchase 45 Wonderbooks, print books created for library use and having an attached electronic audiobook that reads the book as the child

BAND Continued from A4

home the overwhelming human sense of history that this song does. It’s a remarkable song, the rhythmic structure, the voice of Levon and the bass line with the drum accents and then the heavy close harmony of Levon, Richard and Rick in the theme, make it seem impossible that this isn’t some traditional material handed down from father to son straight from that winter of 1865 to today.” I really could not say it any better. “The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down” is one of the greatest songs ever written. It’s not political; it’s human. Our main char-

turns the page.

• $2,500 to Girls on the Run Serving the River Region to support the costs of implementing one team serving students at an Autauga County Title I school.

• $2,500 to HEAL Alabama to support the costs of implementing HEAL Alabama, a nutrition and fitness program taught in elementary physical education classes, at Prattville Elementary School.

• $2,500 to Liberty Learning Foundation, Inc. to support the costs of providing the civic engagement curriculum, Hands on Liberty, and the Libby Liberty Celebration Event for nine Autauga County Schools classrooms.

• $2,500 to Montgomery Education Foundation to purchase equipment to support the expansion of Starbase 2.0, a 10-week afterschool program featuring STEM, robotics, engineering lessons and Maxwell Air Force Base mentoring, in middle schools of Autauga Public Schools.

ELMORE COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

• $2,500 to Alabama PALS to support the costs of implementing the Alabama Clean Campus Program in Elmore County Public Schools.

• $2,500 to Alabama Wildlife Federation to fund 156 sixth graders enrolled in Elmore County Public Schools attending the Elmore County Water Festival at the Alabama Nature Center.

• $2,500 to Girls on the Run Serving the River Region to support the costs of implementing one team serving students at an Elmore County Title I school .

• $2,500 to Liberty

acter is faced with one humiliation and loss after another, but we know he keeps going. The Band soldiered on, too, until a final concert performance captured for the 1978 film “The Last Waltz.” They were the main attraction, but spent most of the film backing their heroes and friends, beautifully. It’s a onestop resource for the cream-of-the-seventies crop: Van Morrison, Bob Dylan, Neil Young, Eric Clapton, Neil Diamond, Muddy Waters, Dr. John, Emmylou Harris, the Staple Singers and many more. The performances are simply electrifying, and the interplay — not to mention the admiration — between the musicians is just a joy to

Learning Foundation, Inc. to support the costs of providing the civic engagement curriculum, Hands on Liberty and the Libby Liberty Celebration Event for nine Elmore County Public Schools classrooms.

• $2,500 to Montgomery Education Foundation to purchase equipment to support the expansion of Starbase 2.0, a 10-week afterschool program featuring STEM, robotics, engineering lessons, and Maxwell Air Force Base mentoring, in middle schools of Elmore County Public Schools.

CACF TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE GRANTS

• $2,500.00 to Alabama Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy to support consultant costs for the development of a strategic plan.

• $2,500.00 to Alabama Wildlife Federation to purchase eight iPads for use by staff and students in collecting field data to share with scientists worldwide and to use as a teaching tool when weather requires indoor educational activities.

For over 35 years, the CACF has been a valued community partner and resource for nonprofits and students in the River Region and Wiregrass. Through the generous support of individual and corporate donors, the foundation provides over $5 million in grants and scholarships each year that meet diverse community needs, supporting programs and projects in education, human services, health, cultural arts and other civic concerns. It’s mission is to create a better quality of life for those who live and work in the River Region for many years to come.

witness. When Robertson died last week, that left instrumental wizard Garth Hudson as the only living member of The Band. All the members of The Band contributed to the glowing musicality evident on record and in performance. Though time marches on, the music this amazing ensemble produced together will live into perpetuity thanks to the lasting beauty of the words penned by Robbie Robertson.

Michael Bird is a music teacher for Tallassee City Schools and co-hosts “The Saturday Morning Show with Michael Bird and Scott Adcock” on WACQ-AM 580 & FM 98.5.

SUBMITTED | THE TRIBUNE

ABOVE: Amelia Fox, left, with Ingram State Technical College Foundation, was on hand to receive a grant from the Central Alabama Community Foundation. BELOW: The grants awarded benefit multiple organizations across the River Region.

Always keep your promises

y word is my bond” is used to indicate one will always do what one has promised to do. There is no one person who coined this particular phase, but Biblically, there are people who live by their “Yes” being yes and their “No” being no. (James 5:12) Their integrity means that you know them to live by truth.

Isaiah 55:11 also alludes to these words of promise by saying, “so stand on the Word He’s given –after all, His Word is His bond.” In Biblical days, oaths, promises, vows or bonds were taken more seriously than they are today.

Memories recall the words of both the Boy Scout and Girl Scout oaths, “On my honor, I

JACKIE WILBOURN Columnist

will do my best to do my duty to God and my country and to obey the Scout Law; to help other people at all times; to keep myself physically strong, mentally awake and morally straight.” These are words that were taken seriously but somewhere along life’s way, they have fallen by the wayside. God expects these three promises as well: duty to God and Country, duty to other people and duty to self!

“When a man makes a vow to the Lord … he must not break his

Did you ever make this promise? We all have bargained with God at one time or another in our Christian walk, made a promise we did not keep. Is sleeping late on Sunday one of those promises? Perhaps we make more excuses than breaking promises.

word but must do everything he said,” (Numbers 30:2, NIV).

Both as a teenager and as a youth leader, we heard emotional pleas at church camp and youth rallies for those present to become “life recruits.”

The directors always echoed the words, “Jesus gave His life for you,” “now commit your life to Him.” Many went forward, many stayed behind for various reasons including, not feeling a call or perhaps not having confidence in their own ability

Tallassee Churches

to keep such a promise. Some who went forward stayed faithful to their commitment and continue in Christian vocations today. Others are committed Christians, but they have secular jobs. Many of them struggle today with regrets — either having made this promise or they made a promise and did not keep it.

Did you ever make this promise? We all have bargained with God at one time or another in our Christian walk, made a promise we did not keep.

Is sleeping late on Sunday one of those promises? Perhaps we make more excuses than breaking promises.

A promise was made the day you accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and as your Savior. Paul warned Timothy about allowing young widows to make a vow of service they would not keep.

When God calls us into His ministry, He makes it so clear we have no doubt it is what He wants from us. Help us to honor the promises we make, especially our promises to follow Jesus. Let your actions and your words be your bond!

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

Dalton MiDDleton SportS eDitor dalton.middleton@thewetumpkaherald.com

Reeltown ranked third by AHSFHS

By HENRY ZIMMER Sports Writer

The preseason hype continues to build for Reeltown.

With just over a week away from kickoff between Reeltown and Tallassee, the Rebels were ranked as the third best team in 2A competition by the Alabama High School Football Historical Society.

The Rebels, coming off a 10-2 season and returning many of the players that

got them there, are ranked behind just Fyffe and B.B. Comer.

Comer was the team that put Reeltown out of the playoffs last season, losing to Fyffe in the championship game.

If Reeltown is to win a state title for the first time since 2009, they will have to get through a Fyffe Red Devils team that has won five of the last seven 2A titles and also a 3A title in 2020.

Reeltown will also have to get past Comer and star running back Kamore

Harris, who committed to Memphis over the summer.

Reeltown’s roster this season has nine seniors and 15 juniors, an uptick in both classes from the season prior.

Senior quarterback Jake Hornsby will lead the team on offense, along with calling the shots at linebacker. Arthur Woods, Xavier Thomas, Tyrese Fallin and Zach Riley are just some of the other returners for Reeltown’s squad.

History is on the side of Reeltown

TALLASSEE VOLLEYBALL TO GIVE MAXIMUM EFFORT

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

When the Tallassee volleyball team takes the court for the first time this season, one thing will be evident — there’s not much height on the court.

What will be on the court, however, is maximum effort and a lot of vocals for the Tigers. Tallassee coach Jill Manning will be sure of that.

“Effort is the key word that I use every single day of practice with my girls,” Manning said. “The ones that are going to play for me are the ones that I will see the most effort from and the ones who are showing me that they want to be out there on the court.”

Tallassee’s team has some big shoes to fill.

The Tigers graduated six players from last year’s squad, a few of which landed themselves on the All-Elmore County team as honorable mention picks.

Only one senior graces the roster this year, and that’s

newcomer Akeelah Hutchinson who has never played before. There’s not much experience on the team, but there are a few underclassmen who played club ball in the offseason such as Blaire Butler and a few others.

“Those girls who have played volleyball in the offseason are going to be really beneficial to our team,” Manning said. “I just have to get them experience on the court and get their confidence up.”

Butler is the most experienced player to take the court for Tallassee this year. She will be one of the team’s setters, joined by Lilly Haynes who also played last season.

Butler is the most vocal player and is the team’s coach on the court.

“She’s really helping me to back me up when I’m telling the girls to be more vocal,” Manning said. “She helps coach them on the court as well. I can’t be there in their ear every play, so she helps in that regard.”

Another one of the key players that will take the

FILE | THE TRIBUNE

court is Regan Easterwood, who is a multi-sport athlete. She is also one of the top softball players for Tallassee.

Easterwood is one of the most experienced players but did not play last year. She decided to take a season off, but Manning didn’t want her to get too far away from the team so she asked Easterwood to serve as the team’s manager.

After a year of being manager, she’s back as the team’s middle hitter.

“She’s just a natural athlete and has really stepped up for us,” Manning said. “I’ve changed her position a few times, but right now she is a middle hitter. She’s not exactly the tallest, but her effort on the front row lets her stand out and that’s what we need on the front row.”

While height will not serve as one of the team’s strengths, Manning is confident in her team’s ability in other areas of the game.

One of which is serving, and multiple girls on the team

See EFFORT, Page B2

when it comes to winning.

Since 2010, Reeltown has amassed a 111-46 record, good for the second most wins and third best winning percentage in 2A.

In the last 25 seasons, the Rebels have gone 212-96, also good for the third best percentage in 2A.

The Rebels host Tallassee on Aug. 24 at 7 p.m. to open the year. Tallassee holds a 10-9 edge in the series, including winning the last two games.

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

Moms of the Elmore County football team got a taste of what their sons feel every Friday night. In a special “Mom’s practice” held by the Panthers on Sunday, moms of the football team learned the fundamentals of football before putting on shoulder pads and a helmet — with a few lessons there too.

Most importantly, though, the moms then put on pads and line up across the room from their sons. With their sons holding a blocking pad, the moms then sprinted across the room and tackled their sons into a pile of pads on the floor.

“I loved every second of this,” Felicia Brown said. “I would do this again and again and again. We need to do this every week. I learned a lot of stuff about football that I didn’t know. I love the sport and I learned a lot about it today.” Brown, who is the mother of senior offensive lineman Trevor Brown, had the full outfit on when she tackled her son. After putting on shoulder pads, she put on

a shirt over the pads that said “Senior Mom Class of 2024” on it. She had orange face paint that she spread under her eyes, and was the second mom to line up to tackle her son. She was ecstatic and had been looking forward to that moment for a while.

“All week,” Brown said. “All week, all week, all week — I’ve been excited for this practice.”

As nearly 30 moms took to the practice field and tackled their sons, one mom got her money’s worth.

Tracy Payton, mother of freshman running back Tyler Payton, actually tackled her son three times on Sunday night. Before she went up the first time, Tyler asked her to tackle him as hard as she could.

Unhappy with the first time he was tackled, he asked her to go again.

After the second, he waited until the end and wanted to be the last person tackled. When she took off running her final time, she delivered one of the biggest hits of the night.

“It was so great,” Payton said. “I had to learn

Blackwell hired to lead Elmore County softball

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

Tranum Blackwell is ready for dirt tan lines around her ankles.

After a seven-year hiatus from coaching, Blackwell has been hired to lead the Elmore County softball team. She replaces Mark Segrest, who left after four seasons leading the Panthers to three consecutive state tournament appearances.

Blackwell has coached different stints at St. James and LAMP in her coaching career but took a seven-year break before deciding she was ready to get back into the sport.

“It’s been a minute, but I’m more than excited,” Blackwell said. “Elmore County has a lot of talent, and I’m ready for that. But I just miss it. I love the sport and I love watching the sport. I actually enjoy coaching more than I ever did play-

Blackwell is taking over a program that has shown consistent success over the last half decade. Since 2020, Elmore County has been ranked in the Top 10 of the Class 5A polls and has reached the state tournament in each of the last three seasons. Moms

ing, so I just jumped at the chance to get back into it again.”

Tallassee volleyball coach Jill Manning speaks with her team during a match against Stanhope Elmore last year. Manning is excited about the effort her team is giving in the preseason.

Continued from B1

for the first time we went. It was like a trial run. The first time it was a trial, the second time I learned and the third time I blew him away. He just begged for it too.”

Elmore County coach Kyle Caldwell didn’t just let his players have the

fun. For the first time since his semi-pro football days after college, he was tackled by his wife as all the players and parents cheered for her to deliver a massive hit.

The players tried to dog-pile on Caldwell, but he was smart enough to sense it coming and was able to get out of the way before anyone landed on him.

The preseason Alabama Sports Writers Association high school football rankings with first-place votes, last year’s win-loss record and total poll points:

CLASS 7A

Team (first-place); 2022 W-L; Pts

1. Thompson (21); 11-3; 261

2. Auburn (1); 12-2; 178

3. Hoover; 11-2; 172

4. Central-Phenix City; 10-3; 170

5. Hewitt-Trussville; 8-4; 132

6. Vestavia Hills; 7-5; 92

7. Enterprise; 8-4; 88

8. Dothan; 8-4; 68

9. Mary Montgomery; 6-5; 43

10. Prattville; 6-4; 11

Others receiving votes: Foley (7-4) 8, Opelika (5-5) 7, Spain Park (3-7) 7, Julian (NA) 3, Oak Mountain (3-7) 3, Austin (7-4) 2, Florence (8-3) 2, James Clemens (4-6) 2, JAG (NA) 2, Sparkman (5-5) 2, Fairhope (8-3) 1. CLASS 6A

1. Saraland (21); 14-1; 261

2. Clay-Chalkville (1); 8-2; 175

3. Hartselle; 12-1; 154

4. Mountain Brook; 12-3; 153

5. Theodore; 13-1; 134

6. Hillcrest-Tuscaloosa; 11-1; 94

7. Parker; 7-5; 78

8. Muscle Shoals; 11-2; 61

9. Spanish Fort; 7-4; 32

10. Pelham; 6-6; 28

Others receiving votes: Homewood (10-3) 19, Gardendale (9-4) 13, Benjamin Russell (8-3) 10, Pike Road (7-5) 10, Gadsden City (7-5) 6, Hueytown (8-4) 6, Fort Payne (8-3) 5, Oxford (5-6) 5, CarverMontgomery (8-2) 4, Pinson Valley (6-4) 2, St. Paul's (7-6) 2, Helena (6-4) 1, McGillToolen (5-5) 1. CLASS 5A

1. Ramsay (18); 13-2; 237

2. Charles Henderson (2); 12-2; 198

3. UMS-Wright (1); 12-1; 165

4. Pleasant Grove (1); 11-2; 157 5. Faith-Mobile; 11-3; 120

6. Leeds; 11-1; 85

Continued from B1

This year, Elmore County finished No. 3 in the state after losing to eventual champion Brewbaker Tech in the state semifinals.

“The expectations are definitely there,” Blackwell said. “You just have to take it day-by-day. It’s going to be a change for some people and it will be an adjustment period. We’re going to have some upsand-downs, but we’re going to

BACKFIRED

Continued from A4 self-inflicted. Democrats just can’t keep their hands out of the cookie jar. Last summer, Biden and Democrats fired up the money printer to get ready for last fall’s election. They spent more than $400

As the tackling stole the show of the practice, it wasn’t just hitting and having fun. Caldwell sat all of the moms down in the Panthers’ locker room and taught the fundamentals of the game. Moms learned how long the field is, what jersey numbers each position is allowed to wear, what the jobs of specific positions are and more.

“We got a lot of really good feedback about moms being excited for this,” Caldwell said. “We wanted to teach them the rules and how equipment works and a big thing that a lot of moms didn’t understand was how heavy the equipment is. They all seemed to have a great time and I’m glad they were able to spend some family time together too.”

7. Moody; 10-2; 72 8. Beauregard; 10-2; 71 9. Gulf Shores; 11-2; 49 10. Demopolis; 10-2; 30

Others receiving votes: Central-Clay Co. (9-3) 27, Guntersville (9-3) 21, Scottsboro (7-5) 9, Arab (11-2) 8, Fairview (7-4) 2, Alexandria (5-5) 1, Selma (7-4) 1, Southside-Gadsden (5-6) 1.

CLASS 4A

1. Andalusia (19); 14-1; 254

2. Cherokee Co. (1); 12-3; 180 3. Catholic-Montgomery; 13-1; 169 4. Jackson (1); 8-3; 121 5. Oneonta; 11-2; 91

6. Jacksonville; 8-4; 87

7. Anniston; 11-1; 65

8. Westminster-Huntsville; 6-5; 64

9. Handley; 11-2; 57

10. T.R. Miller; 10-2; 36

Others receiving votes: Etowah (8-4) 31, Deshler (12-1) 29, Dora (8-4) 24, Randolph (10-3) 16, Montgomery Academy (1 first-place) (5-6) 13, West Morgan (10-2) 10, Priceville (11-1) 4, Northside (8-3) 2, American Christian (9-3) 1.

CLASS 3A 1. St. James (20); 13-2; 256 2. Piedmont (1); 12-3; 159 3. Gordo (1); 11-2; 153 4. Mars Hill Bible; 10-2; 142 5. Mobile Christian; 6-8; 113 6. Madison Academy; 9-3; 81

7. Houston Academy; 10-1; 77 8. Sylvania; 10-4; 73 9. Pike Co.; 8-4; 65 10. Hillcrest-Evergreen; 4-6; 42

Others receiving votes: Geraldine (9-4) 24, Excel (9-2) 18, Opp (8-3) 14, Trinity (9-3) 11, Straughn (7-4) 9, Thomasville (9-4) 7, Flomaton (3-7) 3, Southside-Selma (6-5) 2, W.S. Neal (7-5) 2, Westbrook Christian (5-5) 2, Alabama Christian (8-4) 1.

CLASS 2A 1. Fyffe (22); 15-0; 264 2. B.B. Comer; 12-3; 173

go out and do the best we can.”

Elmore County lost a lot of talent from its third-place finish this season, including multiple multi-year starters. But despite that, there’s a lot returning in Eclectic.

Four true starters return in Morgan Spear, Ally Orr, Lalah Culpepper and Annabelle Orr.

Between the four, they had a combined 113 hits last season with 19 doubles and six home runs.

Culpepper also served as the team’s No. 2 pitcher this past season and had a 3.56 earned

billion on the Green New Deal and 87,000 new IRS agents to shake us down for every last penny. In total, Biden has authorized more than $4 trillion in new government spending, which is more money than we spent to win World War II. And he did this at a time when we didn’t need a dime of stimulus in our

ago,” Carnes said. “It has grown into this. It’s Dadeville and Reeltown teachers. There are a few from Tallassee because they are associated with my church.”

More than 100 teachers gathered in the lunchroom at Reeltown High School Saturday to receive blessings of school supplies and more.

“My goal is that every teacher in Tallapoosa County will have an opportunity to have this love and appreciation shown to them,” Carnes said. “My idea is to provide for the teachers things they would normally pay for out of their pocket. In addition we give away door prizes. This year $11,000 worth.”

This year she sent out wish lists months in advance to get an idea of what teachers wanted and needed.

3. Pisgah; 11-3; 166 4. Highland Home; 12-2; 157 5. Tuscaloosa Academy; 10-3; 110

6. Ariton; 10-2; 106

7. Reeltown; 10-2; 101

8. Vincent; 10-2; 58 9. Goshen; 6-4; 33 10. Aliceville; 11-2; 25

Others receiving votes: Collinsville (8-3) 21, G.W. Long (8-4) 18, Lanett (5-6) 15, Lexington (9-3) 4, Clarke Co. (7-6) 3. CLASS 1A

1. Leroy (14); 13-1; 233

2. Elba (4); 11-1; 175

3. Pickens Co. (1); 11-4; 167

4. Brantley (1); 10-3; 140

5. Meek (1); 11-1; 129

6. Sweet Water (1); 8-3; 95

7. Spring Garden; 10-2; 67

8. Lynn; 11-2; 66

9. Coosa Christian; 9-5; 63

10. Millry; 12-2; 56

Others receiving votes: Addison (9-3) 21, Maplesville (8-4) 11, Florala (7-4) 9, Georgiana (7-4) 7, Linden (9-2) 7, Valley Head (10-2) 3, Autaugaville (6-5) 2, Keith (5-6) 1, Loachapoka (9-2) 1, Southern Choctaw (3-7) 1. AISA

1. Glenwood (10); 8-4; 213

2. Patrician (10); 13-0; 209 3. Lee-Scott; 12-0; 171 4. Lowndes Academy (2); 11-2; 150

5. Chambers Academy; 8-4; 138

6. Clarke Prep; 9-4; 109

7. Jackson Academy; 12-1; 85

8. Autauga Academy; 3-7; 40

9. Southern Academy; 5-6; 28

10. Banks Academy; 6-5; 25

Others receiving votes: Crenshaw Christian (8-4) 21, Fort Dale Academy (4-6) 10, Lakeside (3-8) 7, Valiant Cross (4-7) 7, Wilcox Academy (4-7) 7, Bessemer Academy (2-8) 6, Sparta (0-10) 6, South Choctaw Academy (4-7) 5, Edgewood (6-6) 4, Macon-East (7-4) 4, Abbeville Christian (4-7) 3, Coosa Valley (2-8) 3, Snook (1-10) 2, Morgan Academy (7-5) 1.

run average in 31 appearances.

Joining them are other players who also found success not in a starting role last year such as Addy Peaden and Addison Hicks.

“I know they have a lot of young talent coming up,” Blackwell said. “They have some really good seniors who are returning this year and it’s really fun to know there’s already an excitement behind the program. There’s a lot of people already invested in the program. I can’t even put into words what it means to come

economy.

It’s no wonder we’ve had the highest inflation in 40 years. And it’s no wonder Biden is the least popular president since Jimmy Carter. Joe Biden has cost us a fortune in terms of higher prices. Working families are getting hit from all sides.

Last fall, a Gallup poll

“I get out and raise money for what it takes,” Carnes said. “If I can afford it, I get it.” Carnes attempts to limit teachers to five items on their wish list.

“I try to keep it between $200 to $300 per teacher,” Carnes said. “I raised over $40,000 for all three schools in Tallapoosa County this year. It takes a lot of money.”

Once donations start rolling in, Carnes starts making purchases. She will store mini-refrigerators, microwaves, standup desks, podiums, totes and more in her home until the luncheon. Tables for the luncheon are decorated by volunteer hosts. Reeltown students volunteer to escort the teachers to their tables and serve them meals. It is all watched over by Carnes who steps in to help serve. Carnes took to the podium to welcome the teachers and guests. A few are old friends.

into a program that already has so much energy.”

Because her son plays sports in the spring, Blackwell couldn’t watch many of the softball games this past season. But she knows the kids better than someone who would be hired outside the program.

As she’s been a teacher at the school, Blackwell has taught the majority of the team she is inheriting this season. So she enters the job already knowing the team’s personalities, but now she gets to learn how they act when they’re on

showed a record number of people have given up on the American Dream. According to the poll, a majority of Americans do not think their kids will have a better standard of living than they had when they were growing up. Young people are giving up on the dream of owning their own home as mortgage rates have

“Some of them have been here all 14 years,” Carnes said. “It is wonderful they have been serving our students that long.”

Dessert then came to the tables and Cornerstone Global Methodist Pastor Billy Coleman stepped up to inspire the teachers for the year.

“My favorite groups to talk to are a football team in a locker room, teachers are a close second,” Coleman told the crowd. “I just love teachers.”

Coleman said teachers are some of the most influential people in the world. He explained their students are always looking to them and share everything teachers say with their family.

He told them a story from his first church. Coleman was watching all the children of his small church on Mondays, effectively being a teacher.

“I would babysit those kids for two to three hours by myself,” Coleman said. “Easy to

Continued from B1

are working on really good jump serves. Outside of serving, her team will be good passers and she hopes passing can lead to confidence on the front row.

If she can combine the passing and confidence with the effort her team is going to give every game, Tallassee will find some success on the court.

“We’re going to have to be scrappy this year,” Manning said. “We’re short, and we’re kind of quiet but we’re working on becoming more vocal. I keep telling them I just need six girls who are going to be scrappy and go after the ball no matter what. I need effort and aggression.”

Tallassee opens its season on Thursday, August 24 with a tri-match with ACA and St. James at St. James.

The Tigers then jump almost immediately into area play when they travel to Elmore County on Thursday, Aug. 31 for a big-time matchup. Elmore County has won 13 consecutive area titles while Tallassee is hoping to make it to regional play in Montgomery this year.

the field.

“It’s a little bit of an advantage knowing them in the classroom, but what they act like in the classroom is not what they act like on the field,” Blackwell said. “It’s a totally different setting. But I’m just excited to get back out there and get the girls to love the sport. I’m excited to bring the program skill sets and characteristics that I learned on the field that I never learned anywhere else. I am going to teach them things that they can carry on through the rest of their lives.”

doubled since Biden took office.

Biden shouldn’t be bragging right now. Biden ought to be on an apology tour across this country for robbing hard-working Americans to fund woke policies. And, most importantly, he should be apologizing to the people who are giving up on the American Dream.

do it, right?” Coleman went on to explain the lesson went outside at the small country church as he didn’t have enough things to keep the young students’ attention. It was two weeks before Easter.

“About that time God stepped in and a little rabbit ran out from behind the country church eating grass,” Coleman said. “I said, ‘Boys and girls, do you realize what has happened? The Easter Bunny has come today.’”

Coleman used the guest as a way to get the children to be quiet. The bunny ate grass as the students watched.

“I had them eating out of my hand,” Coleman said. “Then a big dog stepped in and took the rabbit. Shook the Easter bunny and went off into the bushes. All of the kids simultaneously went Bahhhahhaa.”

The children reported the incident to their parents but Cole-

Two-thirds of the American people disapprove of the handling of Biden’s economy. I agree with the American people: Bidenomics has been a total disaster.

Tommy Tuberville is a Republican United States Senator representing the state of Alabama. His column appears monthly.

man further developed the lesson of the resurrection the next week — the week before Easter.

“The Easter Bunny came back to life,” he said. Coleman said the story is a great reminder for teachers and how important they are to every single student.

“Everything you do matters,” Coleman said. “Right or wrong, everything matters. Every single thing you do makes a difference in some else’s life.” Carnes is hopeful the teachers have appreciated her efforts over the years. It is evident in those who continue to return and love her. But now that she has grown the ministry and handed off Horseshoe Bend School to someone else, she is looking for the next generation to help again with her right alongside them.

“In the future I don’t know if I will be doing Dadeville but I will definitely be helping if they allow me,” she said.

DALTON MIDDLETON THE TRIBUNE

An Elmore County football player is tackled by his mom at the Panthers’ first Mom’s Practice on Sunday night.

LUNCHEON

Magic in Mobile

Alabama young farmers vie for top titles

By MAGGIE EDWARDS Special to The Tribune

Young farmers secured wins, prizes and experience advocating for agriculture during contests at the Alabama Farmers Federation Farm & Land Expo Aug. 12 in Mobile. Families from Limestone and Winston counties took home wins for Outstanding Young Farm Family (OYFF) and Excellence in Agriculture competition, respectively, while four Discussion Meet finalists were announced.

The contests are for 18- to 35-year-old members.

Brady and Anna Peek, of Limestone County, were named Alabama’s OYFF. The Peeks raise row crops in Limestone and Lauderdale counties and have one son, Ridge. Since beginning their farm in 2010, the Peeks have increased yields and efficiency; expanded to include custom farming and a trucking business; and diversified into raising flowers and sweet corn they sell to local customers. Brady is the State Soybean Committee chair and chaired the State Young Farmers

Committee in 2021.

As the OYFF winners, they receive more than $80,000 in prizes, including $40,000 toward a new Ford truck, compliments of Alfa Insurance; a John Deere 825i Gator sponsored by Alabama Farm Credit and Alabama Ag Credit; and a year’s lease on a John Deere tractor, thanks to John Deere, TriGreen and SunSouth.

First and second runners-up in the OYFF competition receive prize packages from new OYFF sponsors, Kubota and Corteva Agriscience.

Whit and Amanda Lovelady of Talladega County were named first runner-up. They receive use of a Kubota M series tractor, courtesy of Kubota. The Loveladys raise cattle and hay.

Mitchell and Rebecca Henry of Lawrence County were named second runner-up and will receive a prize package from Corteva Agriscience. The Henrys raise cattle and hay.

SUBMITTED | THE TRIBUNE Elmore County Young Farmer Daniel Free, right, competed in contests during the Alabama Farm & Land Expo Aug. 12 in Mobile. Free competed in the Young Farmers Discussion Meet. He was one of 22 contestants in the meet, which simulates a committee meeting where participants discuss solutions to agricultural issues. He is pictured with Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell.

First and second runners-up also receive $500 from perennial sponsors Alabama Ag Credit and Alabama Farm Credit.

OYFF interviews were held in March, resulting in the top finalists. Judges visited all three farms in July to select the champion. Families are judged on farm growth, community involvement and Federation and American Farm Bureau Federation leadership. OYFF competitors receive the majority of their income from production agriculture.

Commission passes new budget

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

A budget nearly twice those of recent years was approved by the Elmore County Commission for fiscal year 2024 at its meeting Monday.

The nearly $74 million budget is higher due to funds from the American Rescue Plan Act and economic development projects such as 17 Springs being expended.

“The budget is normally in the mid to upper $30 million range,” Elmore County Chief Operations Officer Richie Beyer said.

“This budget also includes new deputies for the sheriff’s department.”

The county will purchase 11 acres of property

just north of the Elmore County Judicial Complex. Beyer said the property had recently come up for sale and the county is currently landlocked at the complex not allowing for future growth.

Athletes from Wetumpka and Tallassee were recognized by the commission.

Wetumpka High School softball player Mya Holt was honored by the commission for being named the 2022-2023 Gatorade Alabama Softball Player of the Year and the ITG Next Alabama Female Athlete of the Year.

The Tallassee City School Anglers were recognized as 2023 State Champions and 2023 Smallmouth Division

Team of the Year by the Alabama Student Angler Bass Fishing Association.

The Wetumpka Baseball 14U All-Star team was recognized as the 2023 USSSA Silver Bracket World Series Champions.

The commission approved the vacation of portions of Neely Road and Lakeshore Court. A slight change to the Lakeshore Court vacation was made since the first advertisement. The property owner seeking the vacation will allow 75 feet of property to be used to construct a turn around.

The commission set a public hearing for 5 p.m. Sept. 11 for comments about vacating portions of Dismukes Road in Mill-

Elmore County Community Calendar

WEDNESDAY, AUG. 23

PEP RALLY: Reeltown will play host to a community pep rally Aug. 23, the night before the football season kicks off at home against Tallassee. The pep rally begins at 7 p.m. at Nix Webster O’Neal Stadium.

SATURDAY, AUG. 26

LIFE & FAITH DAY: Crossroads Church will host at Life & Faith Day from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Aug. 26 at 504 Autauga St. in Wetumpka. There will be live music as well as games and inflatables for the kids. The festivities will also include a free hotdog lunch, popcorn, popsicles and more as well as prizes of free groceries, gas and more. There is a giveaway every 10 minutes with the grand prize of having your electric bill paid.

THURSDAY, AUG. 31

WOMEN’S SUMMIT: The Wetumpka Area Chamber of Commerce will host GRIT, a women’s summit with a lineup of inspirational speakers from all over the country. Tickets are $100 for the six-hour summit, which includes coffee and networking, a women’s business expo, a gourmet lunch, a theater performance and a grand finale including amazing music. It will be hosted from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Aug. 31 at the Wetumpka Civic Center. Tickets are available on the chamber’s webpage.

SUNDAY, SEPT. 17

BARK IN THE PARK : The Humane Society of Elmore County will be hosting its 17th annual Bark in the Park from noon to 4 p.m. Sept. 17 at Fort Toulouse. Sept. 24 is a rain date. Featured will be vendors, activities, a microchip clinic, refreshments, demonstrations and more. Vendor spots are available.

SATURDAY, SEPT. 30

OKTOBERFEST:

Oktoberfest Wetumpka is hosted by the Oktoberfest Planning Committee in downtown starting at 10 a.m. Sept. 30. Featured will be a day of music, performances, vendors and food. For more information, email wetuoktoberfest@gmail. com.

SATURDAY, OCT. 7

PADDLES FOR PAWS: The Elmore County Humane Society will be hosting its first ever Paddles for Paws, a pickleball tournament at 17 Springs in Millbrook. The tournament will take place from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Oct. 7. There is a $35 registration fee, plus a $5 service fee, and that includes one event, a tournament T-shirt, snacks and drinks. The planned format is a round robin tournament.

SATURDAY, OCT. 14

COTTON FESTIVAL: The Town of Eclectic will host the 30th annual Alabama Cotton Festival from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 14. This is a family event held every year on the second Saturday in October featuring more than 250 vendors. Events and contests include the Dog Show, the Classic Car Show, the first annual cornhole tournament, the Alabama Wildlife Federation, the Bama Flying Dogs and so much more. For more information, contact 256794-0379 or 334-541-3581.

THURSDAY, OCT. 26

CANDY CRAWL: Main Street Wetumpka will host its Coosa Candy Crawl from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Oct. 26 in downtown Wetumpka. Dress in your favorite costume and trick-ortreat through local downtown

Convicted murderer recaptured in Montgomery

STAFF REPORT TPI Staff

The Alabama Department of Corrections (ADOC) issued a release stating escaped inmate Jordan Andrew Thomas was recaptured Monday. Thomas, 30, was reported escaped from Staton Correctional Facility in Elmore County on Aug. 7. He was serving a life sentence for murder out of Montgomery County. He was located in the 7200 block of Troy Highway in Montgomery and arrested at approximately 6 a.m. Monday after seven days on the run.

The ADOC Law Enforcement Services Division, U.S. Marshals Service Gulf Coast Regional Fugitive Task Force, Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office and the Montgomery Police Department investigated and worked to take Thomas into custody without incident. Thomas was charged with first-degree escape in Elmore County and taken to Kilby Correctional Facility for processing.

brook. Portions of the road are contained within the 17 Springs project and are not needed where it runs the commercial district.

IN OTHER ACTION THE ELMORE COUNTY COMMISSION:

• Approved minutes of the July 27 meeting.

• Approved warrants and purchase orders of $6,111,145,48.

• Set a public hearing for 5 p.m. Sept. 11 for

businesses and table sponsors. Table registration is coming soon and will cost $20 per business or organization.

THURSDAY, NOV. 9SATURDAY, NOV. 11

ARTS & CRAFTS SHOW: Home for the Holidays is an arts and crafts show with more than 30 local artisans, crafts and creators of all things homemade, handcrafted, homegrown and more. Admission is $5 for anyone over 12. Tickets are sold at the door and valid all three days of the show. For more information, call 334-224-9109.

SATURDAY, FEB. 10, 2024

MARDI GRAS FESTIVAL: Wetumpka’s 11th annual Mardi Gras Festival and Parade presented by The Order of Cimarron is scheduled for Feb. 10, 2024. Vendors open at 9 a.m. with the parade beginning at 1 p.m. This is a rain or shine event. Visit www.wetumpkamardigras.com for more information.

ONGOING

SUPPORT GROUP: The last Thursday of every month, Restoration 49 Coffee Shop plays host to a support group for parents who have lost a child. The meetings begin at 6 p.m. each month. For more information, please contact Heather Baker at hbakerjj@ aol.com.

PRESCHOOL STORYTIME:

After more than a year long hiatus, Preschool Storytime has resumed at the Wetumpka Public Library. The first story time was held on Friday, May 14, and will take place every Friday at the library at 10 a.m.

ECLECTIC TOWN

COUNCIL MEETINGS : Eclectic Town Council meetings are held on the third Monday of each month at Town Hall.

comments on a possible retail liquor alcohol license for Lil Fish Tail on Lightwood Road in Deatsville.

• Approved a 3-year service contract with Johnson Controls for HVAC system at the Public Works Building.

• Approved to level, resurface and traffic stripe portions of Dexter Road and Pierce Chapel Road from Grier Road to Highway 170.

• Approved to plane,

Council meetings begin at 7 p.m. with work sessions taking place prior to the meeting at 6 p.m. Meetings are held in the Dr. M. L. Fielder Municipal Building, 145 Main Street. NAACP MEETINGS: The Elmore County Branch No. 5026 of the NAACP meets at 6:30 p.m. every third Tuesday (executive committee) and every fourth Tuesday (full membership) at the Martin Luther King Center at 200 North Lancaster St. in Wetumpka.

OPEN MIC: The Equality Performing Arts Center hosts an open mic jam session from 7 to 9 p.m. every second Friday of the month at 560 Highway 9 in Equality. There is no charge but donations are welcome as they keep the center running. Bring a snack or finger food to share during the intermission. RED HILL COMMUNITY CLUB MEETINGS: Red Hill Community Club Meetings are held every second Monday of the month. Join the Red Hill Historical Preservation Association in the auditorium of the Old Red Hill School, located off state Route 229 at 6:30 p.m. to discuss upcoming events.

MOUNT HEBRON CHURCH OF CHRIST: Come join us at 4530 Mt. Hebron Road in Eclectic. Our Sunday school begins at 9 a.m. followed by worship service at 10:30. There is also a Wednesday night Bible study at 7 p.m. For more information call Pastor Edwin Walker at 334-541-2025

LUNCH AND LEARN: Lunch and learn Tuesdays with Kelly are scheduled at the Kelly Fitzpatrick Memorial Gallery at 124 Company Street in Wetumpka from noon to 1 p.m. on the third Tuesday of each month. For more information, visit www.thekelly.org.

level, resurface and stripe portions of Jackson Road, Old War Road and Peace Church Road from Rifle Range Road to Redland Road.

• Approved to level, resurface and stripe portions of Old Salem Road from Highway 170 to Chubbehatchee Creek.

The next meeting of the Elmore County Commission is scheduled for 5 p.m. Monday, Sept. 11.

CELEBRATE RECOVERY

GRACE POINT: Celebrate Recovery meets at Grace Point Community Church at 78223 Tallassee Highway in Wetumpka each Tuesday at 6:15 p.m. All are welcome to the meetings which provide a safe and loving environment for individuals seeking to conquer their hurts, habits and hangups. For more information, visit www.Gracepoint.info or contact Gwin Greathouse at gwingreathouse@gmail.com.

CELEBRATE RECOVERY SANTUCK : Celebrate Recovery meets each Thursday at 6:15 p.m. at Santuck Baptist Church at 7250 Central Plank Rd. This is a Christ-centered, 12-step program for anyone struggling with hurts, habits, and hangups. Call 334-5672364 for more information or contact jyates@santuckbaptist. org. GAMBLERS ANONYMOUS: Gamblers Anonymous meets Saturdays at 6 p.m. at Cedarwood Community Church at 10286 U.S. Highway 231 in Wallsboro/Wetumpka. Call 334567-0476 for more information. AA MEETING: Alcoholics Anonymous meetings are held Mondays at 7 p.m. located at 105 Tuskeena St. in Wetumpka. RED HILL SCHOOL: The Red Hill School on Highway 229 in the Red Hill Community in Tallassee is open Fridays from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. for local live music performances. No admission is charged but donations are welcomed to maintain the building and pay for refreshments.

MASTER GARDENER HELPLINE: If you have gardening questions you can call the Master Gardener Helpline at 1-877-252-4769. The helpline starts March 1 and ends in August.

THOMAS

CLIFF WILLIAMS THE TRIBUNE

The Tallassee City Schools fishing team was recognized by the Elmore County Commission for its efforts at the state championships.

State Classified

River

State Classified

AlaScans

SUBMITTED | THE OBSERVER

A man fell off a 20-foot ladder, according to law enforcement, and had to be Life Flighted to Baptist South on Thursday afternoon.

ONE INJURED IN RED HILL FALL

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

Aambulance transported one following a fall in the Red Hill community. Elmore County sheriff Bill Franklin said a Hispanic male was flown to Baptist South Thursday afternoon. “He fell off a 20-foot ladder,” Franklin said. Franklin said the call came in at 2:06 p.m. and the air ambulance left Refuge

THE ANTI-LITTER GUY

By LIZI ARBOGAST GWIN Managing Editor

If you were to ask someone what comes to mind when they think of John Thompson, it’s likely they would say he’s the anti-litter guy.

And it’s a title he wears proudly.

Thompson has dedicated the last 20 years or so to Lake Martin Resource Association and to keeping Lake Martin the treasured lake it has become. He was honored this weekend by the Alabama Wildlife Federation for his dedication to clean water by being named the 2023 AWF Governor’s Water Conservationist of the Year.

“I really think it’s a culmination of what we’ve done for the past 20 years,” Thompson said. “We’re really been bringing a whole new approach to basically getting the lake rid of trash and keeping it that way. At the same time, we’ve taken some environmental education to the young folks and basically accomplished removing over 160 tons of trash from the lake during that (20-year) timeframe.”

LMRA’s biggest effort of the year comes in the fall during Renew Our Rivers, when it teams up with Alabama Power for a two-day, lake-wide cleanup with volunteers from all different communities around the lake. That’s also one of the times LMRA does education with children.

Prior to Renew Our Rivers each year, children from local elementary schools are visited by

LMRA officials.

“We really show them what happens when trash gets thrown off the roadside,” Thompson said.

“We show them it washes down through the watershed and makes it down to the lake, which ultimately someone is swimming or playing in. We really take them through that exercise.”

Then the students partake in a T-shirt art contest. In the past, Thompson has asked them to create a picture of their favorite thing to do on the lake, cleaning up around the lake or similar concepts.

“That’s been a very effective way of getting them involved and we’ve had some great artwork,” Thompson said. “Those are third and fourth graders who have played a part in that.”

The winner of the contest each year has his or her art featured on that year’s Renew Our Rivers shirt.

Past T-shirts can be seen at the Alexander City

municipal complex where Thompson was the brains behind a Clean Community Partnership display. It shows a quilt of past winners, as well as other community partners and a digital photo gallery.

Thompson said without those partners, there would be no Renew Our Rivers. Much of the offloading of large debris is done at Wind Creek and Alabama Power donates the supplies. From there, LMRA created the Treasured Mile and Treasured Island programs, where individuals, organizations or businesses can adopt a roadside mile or a lake island and help keep it clean.

Thompson said he has been passionate about removing litter from the lake for years, and it’s based not on beauty, but on safety more than anything.

“We’ve removed almost 1,000 tires from the lake,” Thompson said. “Think about if the tire is laying in the water with the sunshine on it, back in

Church about 3 p.m. Franklin said he didn’t know how the gentleman fell or the extent of his injuries.

Thompson wins water conservationist award

the years early on, tires contained chemicals that can be a pollutant to the water. The glass and broken bottles — not only are they eye sores, but they are dangerous, too. Then there’s the environmental side of it and keeping the habitat for the fish and birds there.”

Despite beaded styro-

foam being banned on the lake more than two decades ago, Thompson said thousands of pounds have been removed since and it’s especially harmful to birds.

There are many reasons to keep Lake Martin clean, and Thompson seems to embody all of them. Having just suffered the

death of his wife, Sandra, of more than 50 years, Thompson said the honor came at the perfect time.

“It just lifted me right off the floor and gave me a whole new breath of life,” Thompson said. “It came at a time when I was going through those feelings of feeling sorry for myself and needing a boost, and I

FILE | THE TRIBUNE

LEFT: John Thompson poses with a past winner of the Renew Our Rivers T-shirt contest. Thompson said it’s important to teach young people about littering.

RIGHT: John Thompson, right, has been involved with Lake Martin Resource Association for years.

BOTTOM: John Thompson is no stranger to picking up litter and debris from Lake Martin. He is well known for it and was honored this weekend by being named the 2023 Governor’s Water Conservationist of the Year by the Alabama Wildlife Federation.