Tallassee Tribune Dec. 27 2023

Driving safety program in the works for county schools

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

Elmore County Public Schools are trying to stop another tragedy in the wake of the deaths of two Elmore County students in December.

Twice in less than a month superintendent

Richard Dennis’ phone has rang delivering the

news of a death of students in crashes where law enforcement said seatbelts were not worn. Each time schools gave students access to help and facilities as they mourned the deaths.

But Dennis wants to do more.

“Those are tragic situations,” Dennis said.

“We have had some law

enforcement reach out to us to potentially do assemblies at the schools to emphasize the safety that is necessary.”

With many students who drive and given the nature of the county, Dennis said it’s easy for speeds to creep up on rural roads.

“We got to realize and reinforce proper driving

habits,” Dennis said. “We have to emphasize wearing seat belts.”

Not all students in the system take driver’s education classes. Dennis said between law enforcement, school resource officers and school staff materials and assemblies at

BRINGING MUSIC TO LIFE

Children experience music, theater at

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

Children looking to get away from parents Christmas shopping had the perfect opportunity with A Broadway Holiday theater and music camp. Veterans of children’s camp at the Wetumpka Depot returned for the short holiday respite to create a short Christmas program. Michaela Bird and Brooke Carrico have been around the stage for years. Bird is the daughter of Tallassee High School choral director Michael Bird. She is also the theater director at Sylacauga High School. Carrico has been on the stage at the Depot since the age of 6 and is currently majoring in marketing and music business at Nashville’s Belmont University.

“We started working together last summer with the summer Broadway camp,” Bird said. “We did two of those.”

The pair saw interests

CLIFF WILLIAMS | THE TRIBUNE

Michaela Bird, left, leads a singing lesson at the Wetumpka Depot. Bird and Brooke Carrico have combined to create summer and winter performing arts classes for area youth.

Two additional circuit judges coming to Elmore County

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

With growth comes pain. As the population of Elmore County has grown, so has the number of cases in court.

Presiding 19th Circuit Court Judge Bill Lewis is from Elmore County. Adding two judges will speed up the judicial system especially for divorce and child custody issues. The new judges are the result

of studies, legislation and a public referendum. The first study was in 2016.

“It came out and said we needed six circuit judges as opposed to the three we have,” Lewis said.

“With all the movement in central Alabama into Elmore and Autauga, our judges were handling more cases per judge than any other judges in the state.”

The 19th circuit currently has three circuit court

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

In addition to other measures, Elmore County Schools will focus on attendance to improve its state report card.

Overall the Elmore County Schools received an 85, a B, but superintendent Richard Dennis said administrators had already begun working on issues noted in the recent grades. Those include attendance. He said being present at

school is a lot like going to the movies.

“The longer you are out of the theater and not watching, you are missing what is going on,” Dennis said. “You can’t consistently do that and have success. You have some students that are really intelligent and compensate. The average child will suffer. The more they are out, the more they will suffer academically.” County schools pleased with report card, but room for improvement

Police Reports

TALLASSEE POLICE DEPARTMENT

DEC. 23

• Suspicious activity was reported on Friendship Road.

• Suspicious activity was reported on Joy Street.

DEC. 22

• An intoxicated driver was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

Street.

DEC. 20

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Gilmer Avenue.

• A suicidal subject was reported on Hillcrest Street.

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

• Criminal mischief was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• A domestic dispute was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• A private property accident was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• Suspicious subjects were reported on Noble Road.

DEC. 18

• A white female was arrested during a traffic stop on Gilmer Avenue.

nue.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Highway 229.

• Criminal mischief was reported on Third Avenue.

• Suspicious subjects were reported on Noble Road.

• Assistance was given to another agency on Lower Tuskegee Road.

• A domestic dispute was reported on Lower Tuskegee Road.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Highway 229.

• Harassment was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Wall Street.

DEC. 21

• Reckless driving was reported on Central Boulevard.

• Debris was reported in the roadway on Gilmer Avenue.

• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Dogwood Street.

• Suspicious activity was reported on Joy

• Criminal mischief was reported on East Patton Street.

• Theft was reported on Oak Heights Road.

• Criminal mischief was reported on East Patton Street.

• A Black male was arrested on Barnett Boulevard.

• A domestic dispute was reported on Mott Lane.

DEC. 19

• A white male was arrested on U.S. Highway 231.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Clover Street.

• Theft was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• Assistance was given to a citizen on Barnett Boulevard.

• Trespassing was reported on South Ann Avenue.

• Assistance was given to a citizen on Barnett Boulevard.

• Assistance was given to a citizen on Hillcrest Street.

• A fight was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• A white female was arrested on Industrial Park Drive.

• A domestic dispute was reported on Benson Avenue.

• Animal control was requested on Langley Street.

• Assistance was given to a citizen on Third Ave-

WETUMPKA POLICE DEPARTMENT

DEC. 18

• Criminal mischief was reported on Otter Track Road.

DEC. 16

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

• Harassment was reported on Huntress Street.

DEC. 15

Obstructing government operations and resisting arrest was reported on U.S. Highway 231. DEC. 14

• Forgery and theft was reported on Captain Crommelin Road.

Humane Society of Elmore County News Donations keep the shelter going

By REA CORD HSEC Executive Director

We hope everyone has been able to enjoy time with family and friends and want to thank everyone who brought us donations of food and treats for our pets. We also received blankets, towels and bedding to keep everyone cozy, supplies for our shelter, financial donations to help us keep our doors open, and even goodies for the staff to enjoy. We had many wonderful adoptions and hope each pet has wiggled their way into their new parent’s hearts forever and ever!

fication on its collar just in case.

We want to remind everyone to keep your pets indoors next Sunday/New Year’s Eve as many pets left outside will run away and get lost from their fear of fireworks noises and flashes. And please make sure your pet has its identi -

Pet of the Week - Savannah

If your pet does get lost make sure you call the Humane Society of Elmore County at 334-5673377 (leave message if after hours), email us the info and picture to hselco@bellsouth.net, or post to your local area Lost & Found page on Facebook.

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

Savannah is an oh-so-sweet, 1 ½ year old female yellow lab who weighs about 50 pounds. She was surrendered to us for “eating chickens.” Savannah is very sweet, loves attention and good with other dogs. We think she will be OK with cats. She gets quite excited to meet them at first but then settles down.

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 334-567-3377 and the website is www.elmorehumane. org.

SAFETY

Continued from A1

all high schools will be organized over the second semester of the

JUDGES

Continued from A1

school year. He said the details of the programs are still evolving but they would center around common driving safety issues.

Dennis is a graduate

up,” Lewis said.

judges, Lewis from Elmore County, Judge Joy Booth in Autauga County and Judge Amanda Baxley in Chilton County. There is a requirement that a judge come from each county in the circuit.

“We are the only circuit in the state like that,” Lewis said. “It is to protect the smaller counties to make sure Elmore County doesn’t have a [lock] on all the judgeships. I do just as much in the other two counties and they mean just as much to me.”

The judges handle everything in all three counties. The circuit judges have original jurisdiction in most everything and appellate jurisdiction from the district courts.

Lewis said trial terms with juries are set by state statue for civil and criminal.

“You can still do motion hearings all the time,” Lewis said.

Out of the 2016 study came legislation. It would allow judgeships in Jefferson County to be moved as judges retired. The first went to Madison County. But it wasn’t fast enough to help the situation in Elmore, Lee and Baldwin counties.

“Our local delegation stepped

SCHOOLS

Continued from A1

The overall 85 is better than the state average 83. The system is also slightly better on chronic absenteeism with a 17.66 compared to a 17.90. Chronic absenteeism is defined as when a student misses 18 or more days of school.

Dennis said administrators have started conversations with local juvenile officers on how to get students to school.

“The bigger group impacted by this are the elementary and middle school students,” Dennis said. “It is not the kids’ fault they can’t get to school. We got to improve it. We have got to figure it out.” Some schools in the system scored well in chronic absenteeism — Redland Elementary School received a 12.43 and Redland Middle School received an 8.98. Dennis said administrators watched Redland Middle School closely as some of those students shifted from Wetumpka when its construction was completed.

of Holtville. He understands the roads in the county and the independence that comes with teenagers driving.

“Reflecting on my own youth, we have

The new legislation allows for two new judges to be elected at large — meaning they are not required to reside in a certain county in the district.

The first new judge will be on the ballot in 2024 to take office in 2025. The second judge on the ballot in 2026 to take office in 2027.

The new legislation states the first new judge to be elected will handle domestic relations cases to aid in speeding up issues related to divorce and child custody. Lewis said if a parent asked for a final hearing it would take a year or more before it could be heard given his current docket.

“The domestic stuff is constant and important,” Lewis said. “The domestic caseload has become very high. Domestic cases are extremely difficult. All parties are extremely stressed. The quicker they can be resolved, the better it is for those families especially when kids are involved.”

Campaigns for the new judgeship are currently underway. Dee Dee Calhoon, Nicole Clark and Jacquelyn Tomlinson have qualified to be on the ballot in the Republican primary. There is no Democratic opposition.

The 2027 judge will be more for

“Wetumpka Middle School dropped some but they had a big group of students who transitioned to Redland Middle School too,” Dennis said. “You have to look at the underlying dynamic.”

Overall Redland Middle received a 90, an A, and Wetumpka Middle School a 76 — a C.

Dennis said small ups and downs across years are common with Elmore County schools. There is normally not a trend up or down.

“If you have a strong class come through it may edge up a little bit,” Dennis said. “The next class could drop down a little.”

Dennis is not settling, especially with the new literacy program passed by legislators means some third graders may not pass to fourth grade.

“We will be reviewing our curriculum,” Dennis said. “The big challenge is we took on a new textbook and curriculum in the elementary school. It has been a big challenge as the teachers adjust to the rigor coming with the testing.”

Two other schools in the district received

Continued from A1

in another camp and decided they could pull together a short production. It includes five songs, one poem and five dances. There is also a quick performance of ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas.

“We have 21 hours over three days to pull it all together,” Bird said. “They have three days to learn the music, learn the dances and learn the show.”

Carrico is a Wetumpka native and has been helping the Depot with children’s music programs over the years.

Bird calls herself ancient at 26 years old. She appreciates the differences in the younger children compared to the older ones in her high school theater program.

“It is always nice to shift working with ages 14-18 to 7 to 14,” Bird said. “It presents different challenges. It

some that feel somewhat invincible,” Dennis said. “It is heartbreaking when you think about what these parents are faced with right now with the loss of a child.”

family court. It will help alleviate issues in the juvenile system.

In both cases the judges will be able to specialize more in those areas.

“They will know the precedents and issues to be able to make quicker rulings,” Lewis said. “So when you file for divorce, you don’t have to wait two years to get finality.”

Adding judges means a need for space. Currently Elmore County is the larges courthouse in the circuit with four courtrooms. In 2027 seven judges would be operating in Elmore County but not all would need large courtrooms.

The Elmore County Jail is also full.

For future growth the Elmore County Commission has already purchased 11 acres adjacent to the Elmore County Judicial Complex and jail. No decision has been made on how what to do with the property yet.

“At least we have the land to grow,” Lewis said.

Lewis believes the studies show growth for Elmore County, not only in population but in the need for access to courts.

“I foresee with the shift and growth, our circuit being as big or bigger than Montgomery in the next 20 years.” Lewis said.

Cs — Millbrook Middle School and the Edge Virtual Academy.

“Millbrook is our second largest school,” Dennis said. “We will look at what we can do to help students through curriculum and with test taking skills.”

Dennis said Edge is really a K-12 school and the 74 is misleading.

“That is not bad for a virtual school,” Dennis said. “It is one of the highest scoring virtual schools in the state.”

When compared to local schools Dennis was pleased again with Elmore County’s results.

“We were at or above all of our neighboring school systems,” Dennis said.

Autauga and Tallapoosa counties both received a B — 83 and Tallassee City Schools C — 78.

OVERALL SCORES BY SCHOOL Airport Road Intermediate School B — 88

Coosada Elementary School B — 86

Eclectic Elementary School B — 85

Eclectic Middle School C — 75 Edge Virtual Academy C — 74

is different in how to approach them.”

Friday morning the young instructors were working with the campers on “We wish you a Merry Little Christmas. Currico was playing the piano. Bird was directing. To help the campers, the music was stopped at a point where it was to slow down.

“This should make it easier,” Bird told the campers. “Also remember not to drop the have. Let’s make it clean.” Bird said the show should be fun.

“They have been bouncing all around,” she said. “We will get all put together for a fun little performance that everyone can enjoy.”

Elmore County High School B — 86

Holtville Elementary School A — 90

Holtville High School B — 87

Holtville Middle School B — 86

Millbrook Middle School C — 79

Redland Elementary School A — 92

Redland Middle School A — 90

Stanhope Elmore High School B — 83

Wetumpka Elementary School B — 81

Wetumpka Middle School C — 76

Wetumpka High School B — 86

MUSIC

CLIFF WILLIAMS THE TRIBUNE

ABOVE: Michaela Bird gives directions to children on singing ‘Have Yourself a Merry Christmas’ Friday morning. Bird and Brooke Carrico are hosting a three day camp at the Wetumpka Depot with a production Saturday evening.

BELOW: Brooke Carrico plays the piano at The Wetumpka Depot as youth rehearse Have Yourself a Merry Christmas. The children are working on several songs to present Saturday evening.

Tallassee Talks

It starts with one day a time

Walking into that first Alcoholics Anonymous meeting, I thought my heart was going to burst out of my chest it was beating so hard.

Fresh off some of the worst few days of my life and without having a clue what I was going to do next, I went to an AA meeting in hopes of finding some clarity. I knew I had to make a change but I didn’t yet know what that change was.

Even when I left my first AA meeting, I still didn’t know what I was doing but I knew I felt I needed to come back. I dove head first into the Big Book and read the stories and thought, “That’s me. That’s what my life is, and there’s only worse down the road.”

When I decided to officially accept my silver chip, saying I wanted to be part of the program, I was willing to accept I had a problem and I couldn’t overcome it without help. I was so afraid of the magnitude of what I was doing. I don’t like to fail, and the idea of never drinking again — that was too much to bear.

But Alcoholic Anonymous,

LIZI GWIN Managing Editor

luckily, taught me I didn’t have to worry about that; at least not right away. All I had to do was take things one day at a time. Somehow, someway, by the Grace of God, I stand here with five years of sobriety under my belt. I promise y’all when I crossed that parking lot at Red Ridge United Methodist Church in Dadeville that first time, I never thought I’d be here today.

Especially given this year, with the death of my brother-in-law Dylan Gentry along with the countless heartbreaking stories we have covered at Tallapoosa Publishers in 2023, I questioned many times if four years would be my last chip. I don’t always know how it happens, but I thank God every day I have made it another sunrise without a drink.

Even now, with five years of

sobriety, I’ve learned the importance of taking things slowly and not allowing things to get too big. If I hadn’t learned the lessons AA taught me, I am not sure I’d have been able to deal with Dylan’s death. It’s all about taking things one day at a time. Sometimes all I can do is get out of bed, and sometimes that’s just good enough.

As we head into the new year and a new set of resolutions are pondering in our minds, I urge you to try the unthinkable. Don’t worry about if you’ll make it to the end of the year; don’t worry about if you’ll even make it to February.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned this year, it’s that next year isn’t guaranteed. Between the deaths of the Dadeville shooting victims and the countless others we have lost this year, we know there’s no time like the present. Now is the year to achieve that goal you’ve been wanting for so long, and today is the day to take the first step.

Lizi Arbogast Gwin is the managing editor at Tallapoosa Publishers Inc.

The Twelve Days of Christmas

The 12 days of Christmas begin Dec. 25 and end on the Epiphany on Jan., so we’re smack-dab in the middle of the “real” Christmas season (even though the rest of the world thinks it starts in October and ends before Santa Claus can even warm up the sleigh).

Before it’s all over with, I submit my own personal must-watch, must-listen list for the Christmas season. Some of these are easy to find; others seem to be fading away.

12. “Holiday Inn” and/or “White Christmas” — These movies both star Bing Crosby and feature the best-selling record of all time; their plots are similar. One features Fred Astaire and the other Danny Kaye. But if you can find these entertaining films, watch them; they don’t make ’em like this anymore.

Darlene Love to perform on his show every year. Love belts out this Phil Spector “wall of sound” tune with such fiery intensity, especially the last line, it’s hard not to believe she really wants her baby to come home!

7. Gary Owens’ Preparation H commercial — This famous outtake by one of the greatest voices of all time is the first recording I reach for each year. Owens is reading a spot about the wonderful season of Christmas but gets to the sponsor’s tag line about hemorrhoid relief and laughs so hard, he loses control.

see what Bedford Falls would have been like had George never lived. Who isn’t moved by Harry’s toast at the end of the film? “To my big brother George, the richest man in town!”

3. “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” — The crude side of Christmas gets its due with Chevy Chase’s hapless Clark Griswold on his eternal search for the perfect family Christmas, complete with crazy relatives, spiked eggnog, a subscription to the jelly of the month club, faulty power strips, raw sewage and a burning Christmas tree.

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.

11. “Home Alone” — One of the most successful movies of the 1990s, the hilarious original (and its totally preposterous but equally funny sequel) is sure to tickle anyone’s funny bone. While Macaulay Culkin was a great child actor, the “wet bandits,” Joe Pesci and Daniel Stern, carry the whole show.

10. “I’ll Be Home For Christmas” — Maybe it’s Bing Crosby’s delivery, or maybe it’s the subject matter of a soldier off at war during the holidays, but something about this song always gets to me.

9. Christmas episode of “The Brady Bunch” — Carol Brady is set to sing Christmas Eve at church but is attacked by laryngitis for days. Miraculously, her voice returns just in time to sing praises. Similarly, the 1988 TV-movie “A Very Brady Christmas” found Mike Brady pinned inside a collapsed building on Christmas; the Brady brood prays him to safety.

8. “Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)” — Dave Letterman helped popularize this classic by inviting

6. “Ave Maria” — There are two versions: the Bach-Gounod and the Schubert. The Bach-Gounod version, as performed by classical violinist Isaac Stern with the Columbia Symphony Orchestra (whoever they were), is my favorite.

5. Paul Harvey’s “The Man and the Birds” — This one has faded from memory, but masterful storyteller Paul Harvey wrings meaning from every word in his annual retelling of this modern parable, in which the main character doesn’t believe in Christmas until he tries to shepherd a lost flock of birds into his warm lighted barn on Christmas Eve.

4. “It’s A Wonderful Life” — The older I get, the more I am affected by the look on Jimmy Stewart’s face when his uncle loses $8,000 and he is forced to sell his soul to mean old Mr. Potter; he attacks his loving wife and family then heads to the bridge to commit suicide. Angel-second-class Clarence happens to be there to save George Bailey from himself and lets him

2. “A Christmas Carol” — The story is always good. But having seen the Alastair Sim, Patrick Stewart and Muppets versions, in my humble opinion, the handsdown best Ebenezer Scrooge has to be George C. Scott in the 1984 TV-movie. He epitomizes meanness; yet, when he begs the spirit to give him another chance, his display of true humanity is unforgettable.

1. “A Charlie Brown Christmas” — We can’t make it through the season without the classics “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” and “Frosty the Snowman,” among many others. But if I had to choose just one animated special to keep forever, it would be this one: Vince Guaraldi’s jazzy score sets the tone for this downbeat favorite, in which perennial loser Charlie Brown searches for the true meaning of Christmas. His friends have their own materialistic ideas, but best buddy Linus captures it all with his dramatic recitation of the birth of Jesus story from Luke’s gospel.

As we conclude the Christmas season this week, let’s remember Tiny Tim’s words: “God bless us, every one.”

Michael Bird is a music teacher for Tallassee City Schools.

Officers are no different than you or me

It’s been a tough year in Eclectic. Eclectic Police Chief Robert Head has been there for a lot of it. The response to accidents and deaths involving local children. There was the unexpected death of Eclectic police Cpl. Desmond Bailey. Tears were shed over the losses by Head and his officers. But Thursday, tears of joy rained as Santa-Laws came to town. I got to witness as the police department delivered joy through “gift warrants.” It was a mad rush at the Eclectic

Police Department. The elves were rushing around to make sure they had toys to match up with the list of “suspects.” I was with Head as the police sleighs rolled out all decked out in lights and sirens. The police chief was all grins. For once the large

response of lights and sirens was positive. There was no accident, no fire, no death and no one to comfort. But the stories of the past were there.

Head cried a little at a stop.He recalled the horrible crimes that surrounded a child’s past. But this time, Head was there for something good. He delivered a bicycle and held back tears in front of the child. “That smile was all worth it,” Head said.

OFFICERS, Page

MICHAEL BIRD Columnist

CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

G

reetings from the corner of Bridge and Bridge! I do hope everyone reading this column is awash in the glow of Advent. The coming light of Christ is almost upon us. Remember that God kept the promise of prophecy.

“The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light.”(Isaiah 9:2a)

One of my favorite anthems / hymns is Jesus, the Light of the World. The chorus declares: We’ll walk in the light, beautiful light, come where the dew-drops of mercy shine bright. Shine all around us by day and by night, Jesus, the light of the world. We have a choral arrangement with a swing jazz feel to it that makes me smile every time we sing it! Each year during our Candlelight Christmas Eve Ser-

REV. JONATHAN YARBORO Columnist

vice of Lessons and Carols, I have the privilege of reading the opening verses of the Gospel of John. The word of God became flesh and dwells among us. When we follow that reading with the lighting of each attendee’s candle, we easily visualize the spreading of the light of Christ.

Before writing this week’s column, I wrote a daily devotion based on the most familiar words from the Gospel of John, John 3:16. The Gospel reading for the day was John 3: 16 – 21. I observed that the very

familiar words of 3:16 are followed by words that empower the message loved by so many. God so loved the word that God provides opportunity for salvation for all.

The reading explains the purpose for the incarnation. The word of God became flesh so that all might have eternal life. Jesus Christ, God’s ultimate and final example for how to live in covenant relationship with God, came to redeem the world; not condemn it. God’s intentions could not be clearer.

The reading also explains humankind’s response to the word of God in the flesh. Children of God sometimes refuse the light of God. We often prefer to remain lost in darkness. When Jesus was put on trial, a non-believing

Tallassee Churches

judge found him innocent. The Roman Empire did not sentence Jesus to death. The supposed people of God did.

Before anyone begins to think the ol’ preacher man is getting crass and cynical because of Christmas stress, think again. What I am asking all of us to do is to be honest about the ways of God and the ways of humankind. Anyone claiming to follow Jesus Christ and / or spread gospel good news needs to keep a few things straight.

The light of God has already been given to the whole of the earthly kingdom. No one, regardless of any human label, characteristic, or circumstance, has been or ever will be cut off from the light of redemption by God. The light is freely given and available to all,

all the time.

Similarly, although God separated light from darkness at the time of creation, God did not assign evil to the dark. Satan recognized the lure of darkness and chose it as the preferred medium for temptation. God in Jesus Christ makes it possible for any child of God to whistle in the dark, so to speak.

Finally, as Christmas approaches, accept the gift of divine truth. God gives light. God does not plunge people into darkness. The devil cannot make us do anything we don’t agree to. Walk in the light, the beautiful light of God! It is always shining. Why not shine with it?

Rev. Jonathan Yarboro is the Pastor of First Presbyterian Church, Wetumpka

Dalton MiDDleton SportS eDitor dalton.middleton@thewetumpkaherald.com

2023 All-Elmore County Football Team

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

As the 2023 football season came to a close, there were many highlights ranging from stunning comeback wins to game-winning Hail Mary’s all across the county. While four of the six county teams reached the playoffs this year, there was also plenty of individual success from the county’s best players.

The 2023 All-Elmore County Football Team is highlighted by Offensive Player of the Year Nate

Rogers, Defensive Player of the Year

Donnie Arnold and Two-Way Player of the Year Gabe LeMaster.

The Elmore County Coach of the Year is Jason Franklin for leading Holtville to a 7-4 record and a home playoff game in his final season.

Here is your full All-Elmore County Football Team.

FIRST TEAM

QB: NATE ROGERS, WETUMPKA

Rogers has been stellar in his three seasons starting quarterback for Wetumpka. While leading the Indi-

ans to their third-consecutive playoff appearance with him at the helm, he passed for 1,343 yards and 8 touchdowns while rushing for 1,630 yards and an impressive 21 touchdowns.

QB: KEILAND BAKER, HOLTVILLE

After an All-State campaign from a season ago, all eyes were on Baker heading into his junior season. He did anything but disappoint as he completed 114 of 201 passes for a county-high 1,708 passing yards and

See ALL-ELMORE, Page A9

Joseph Hooks was one of the team’s top linebackers and running backs this season. He capped off an impressive career in 2023.

2023 ELMORE COUNTY OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

It didn’t matter how a defense lined up against Wetumpka quarterback Nate Rogers. A defense could stack nine defenders in the box. It could run its fastest and best defender as a quarterback spy. It could drop three defenders as spies.

No matter what opposing teams did, Rogers ran the ball. Then he ran the ball some more. Then he ran it even more.

The third-year starting quarterback ran circles around defenses this season as he rushed for a county-high 1,630 yards and an impressive 21 touchdowns. He rushed for over 100 yards in 9 out of the 11 games he played in, and he helped lead Wetumpka to the Class 6A playoffs for the third-straight season. To contribute to his run game, he also passed for 1,343 yards and 8 touchdowns. Rogers is the 2023 Elmore County Offensive Player of the Year.

“You can stack as many guys as you want into the box and Nate is still a nightmare for opposing teams,” head coach Bear Woods said.

“Everyone is aware of how special of a talent he is. In the next 20 years, I might not coach a guy as dynamic as Nate Rogers again. It was a pleasure to be able to coach him because he’s everything a head coach could want from a player.” Rogers has always been able to run the football with success. A year ago, Rogers rushed for nearly 1,200 yards and 13 touchdowns.

His sophomore season, he battled injuries but showed what he could do by rushing for over 100 yards in the first half of a playoff game.

What Rogers really wanted to improve on was his passing.

Entering his second season in offensive coordinator Jonathan Chandler’s offense, the two worked together heavily in the offseason.

They worked on Rogers’ mechanics, but more importantly they worked on understanding the complicated posi-

tion that is quarterback which helped Rogers understand the offense.

In turn, Rogers was given the freedom to run the offense and grow in the offense, and he maximized his opportunities to score by doing so.

“I put in so much hard work in the offseason to improve each and every year,” Rogers said. “I think my passing improved the most. I made a lot of throws this season that I could have never made the last few years. And that opened things up for me. Once teams found out I could throw the ball well, they had

to take guys out of the box. When they did that, it was a touchdown for me all day.” Rogers’ passing abilities were showcased in spurts throughout games, but his most complete game came in what was probably the biggest game of his career.

Wetumpka hosted rival Stanhope Elmore early in October, and Rogers was undefeated against Stanhope as a starter. He was 2-0, winning both games during his sophomore and junior seasons.

More importantly, the winner of this matchup has gone to the playoffs each

Elmore County Defensive Player of the Year

By DALTON MIDDLETON

Editor

season while the loser has been sitting at home come November. With the season on the line, Rogers had the best passing game of his career. Rogers completed 14-of19 passes for 305 yards and three touchdowns. It was his only 300-yard passing game in his career, and only his second game with three passing touchdowns. He rushed the ball a season-low 11 times, but he recorded 135 rushing yards and two more touchdowns.

OFFENSIVE, Page A8

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

Tallassee’s

FILE | THE TRIBUNE

Wetumpka’s Nate Rogers rushed for a county-high 1,630 yards and 21 touchdowns. He had 100-plus rushing yards in all but two games this season.

FILE THE TRIBUNE

Stanhope Elmore defensive end Donnie Arnold finished his senior season with a county-high 16.5 sacks. He added 31 quarterback pressures and 60 tackles.

FILE THE TRIBUNE

Edgewood Academy’s Gabe LeMaster recorded seven interceptions on defense while also scoring seven touchdowns playing receiver and

of the game. He studies the game of football, and he studies film as much as he can.

That, combined with being a good physical player, leads to endless success for LeMaster on the football field.

The senior receiver, running back, defensive back and kick returner wrapped up his Edgewood football career this fall. In the process, he established himself alongside a long list of great Wildcats. On defense, LeMaster recorded a county-best seven interceptions while tallying 72 tackles and three tackles for loss.

On offense, he had 32 catches for 449 yards and four touchdowns. In the backfield, he recorded 62 carries for 337 yards and three touchdowns. On special teams, he had 20 returns for 534 yards and one final touchdown.

For his ability to succeed in every face of the game, LeMaster is the 2023 Elmore County TwoWay Player of the Year for the second-straight season.

“During the season, Gabe game plans so well and watches so much film,” Michael said. “He prepares so well that he knows what a team is going to do before they do it. That allows him to put himself in a position to make a play whether on offense or on defense.”

During football season, film takes precedence over anything else.

LeMaster doesn’t know how much he watches on average, but he watches it nonstop. If he’s in class and he finished his work or isn’t doing much that day, he’s studying game film.

He watches film with the rest of the team each week, then he studies it for at least two hours a night when he gets home.

When he gets ready for bed and is just lounging around the house, he has game film up.

Even on Fridays before the game, he’s going through film trying to figure out every formation and determine what plays are being run and if there are any tells from any players he can pick up on.

“Film is the most important thing in football, at least on defense,” LeMaster said. “You can study each formation a team runs and see what plays they run or routes they run out of those formations. You can study these teams and build up your football IQ. When you do that, you can figure out what is going to happen most of the time.”

His game-planning has definitely helped himself, especially on the defensive side. He recorded six interceptions last season as a junior, then one-upped himself this year with seven interceptions.

He flies to the ball because he knows where the ball is going. When he figures out where it’s going, he lets his teammates know as quickly as he can and they all succeed.

His ability to seemingly cover the entire middle of the field also helps his team take more chances, and it raises the confidence level of any extra player who may blitz and leave a part of the field open.

“Our guys know that when Gabe is behind them, he can help if there is a mess up,” Michael said. “He allows us, especially defensively, to take chances. If we mess up and it’s a bad blitz, he can erase those mistakes with one play. With him patrolling the secondary, you always have a chance with the ball in the air. He’s going to find a way to get the ball and make a play.”

Any time LeMaster touches the ball, it’s possible six points will be added to Edgewood’s side of the scoreboard.

Despite the team playing multiple quarterbacks, he secured the most receiving touchdowns on the team. And with defenses focusing on the run game, he still pulled out a 5.4 average on carries. He was, in every sense of the word, efficient any time he touched the ball.

But with the way he thinks about the game and studies the game, he loves the defensive side of the ball. He enjoys finding the end zone and adding points for his team, but he likes out-smarting his opponents.

“I love the thinking game of defense and thinking about what other teams are going to do,” LeMaster said. “I want to figure out what they’re going to run. To me, it’s like a chess game. You’re trying to out-smart your opponent while also trying to out-physical them on every play.”

2023 Elmore County Coach of the Year

Holtville’s Franklin saves his best for last

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

Jason Franklin is going to remember his 2023 football season for a long time.

Franklin, after 16 years as a head coach and seven years at Holtville, made the decision to retire after the 2023 season.

His final season as the Bulldogs’ head coach was a memorable one.

After a 3-8 record a year ago, Holtville finished the 2023 season with a 7-4 record while playing for a region championship for the first time in nearly 40 years. The team finished runner-up and hosted only the third playoff game since 1993.

For his team’s success, Franklin is the 2023 Elmore County Football Coach of the Year.

“Knowing this would be the last season, it was bitter sweet to go out with the season we had,” Franklin said. “This group of guys we had gave us everything they had weekin and week-out and it made for a really enjoyable season.”

From the start of the offseason, Franklin knew his team had the chance to be good. Most teams coming off a 3-8 season can’t say that, but all the pieces were there for a successful year.

Holtville was returning an AllState quarterback in Keiland Baker who would no longer be splitting time at quarterback.

His favorite weapon, Erik Adkins, returned at receiver along with two more 6-foot-4 receivers. Nearly the entire offensive line returned from a year ago, and that’s just from the offense.

On defense, some key returners headlined the group such as defensive lineman Anthony Chunn or linebackers Luke Strength and Josh Jimenez.

Those weren’t the only players who returned with experience and it showed as his team took the field.

“The experience and maturity level of our guys was different this year,” Franklin said. “A lot of our

To sweeten the pot, he and the Indians won the game, 56-42, and Wetumpka made the playoffs while Stanhope did not for the third-straight season.

“That was probably my best game ever, both passing and running,” Rogers said. “I only had 135 rush-

guys were more mature and knew what was expected of them. They just went out and executed each week and had a process of getting ready. They knew what it would take to be successful. Along the way, we had some good things happen. Success comes with good fortune.”

While Franklin knew his team could be good, it became much clearer following the Bulldogs’ first game of the season.

Holtville hit the road to Birmingham to start the year and faced a much improved Fultondale team in its first game at its new stadium.

Holtville’s season looked to start disastrous as Fultondale took a 24-0 first half lead following two blocked punts, a kickoff return, a safety and a pick-six.

Despite the deficit, Holtville never gave up. Baker connected with Adkins to cut the lead to 24-7 just before the half then Holtville scored 21 straight points to stun Fultondale, 28-24.

“That first come from behind win showed a lot of character and poise about our bunch,” Franklin said. “When you have a group that does something like that, usually good things happen along the way. That was the turning point where I thought maybe this bunch had a little something different about them. You could never doubt this bunch.”

That mindset continued throughout the season.

Just a few weeks later, Holtville found itself down on the road again.

ing yards, but I barely ran. I feel like that game has a special place in my heart because not too many people believed I could throw the ball as well as I did that night and I proved a lot of people wrong. I really loved the way I played that night. I will probably remember that night for the rest of my life.”

With his high school career over, Rogers is

He did so while only playing half the season at defensive end before being moved to linebacker.

For his commanding presence haunting quarterbacks, Arnold is the 2023 Elmore County Defensive Player of the Year.

“Donnie has some of the best ‘get off’ that you’ll see at the high school level,” Stanhope coach Hunter Adams said. “He’s a strong guy who benches 360 pounds and runs a 4.6 in the 40-yard dash. His athletic intangibles allow him to be a physical mismatch against anyone he lines up with. If we didn’t move him to linebacker midway through the season, he probably would have had a 22 or 24 sack season.”

It’s hard to predict a season that successful, but it looked realistic for Arnold early on. Arnold started his season with a 3.5 sack game in a season-opening win over Shades Valley. Three games later, he was still averaging three sacks a game.

Unfortunately for Stanhope, the Mustangs were suffering injuries at a high rate. And while he and fellow defensive end Thomas Williams (12.5 sacks) were each getting into the backfield, he was needed to play a different role to

Playing West Blocton, Holtville gave up the lead in the final minute of the game but the team’s confidence never waivered.

Down 27-26, Holtville stunned West Blocton. Baker connected with Adkins for a 60-yard pass, then he found Elijah Headley for a 10-yard touchdown pass with 13 seconds left to give them the win.

“We were never out of a game,” Franklin said. “The attitude was always positive and we always had trust in each other. That’s just part of what made this bunch so fun to coach this year. No matter who we played, we gave 100% effort.”

The fantastic season wrapped up what was already a great career for the head ball coach. Franklin has coached at and won at both Holtville and Horseshoe Bend during his tenures, and he has made the playoffs nine times in his 16 seasons. That includes each of the last six seasons at Holtville after taking over a program that won four total games in four seasons prior.

He helped turn both programs around, and to win seven games and host a playoff game during his final year was just the icing on the cake.

“Every coach wants to go out and put a good product on the field and enjoy every day,” Franklin said. “I really enjoyed it and I’ve loved my experience here. I’ve loved my time here. It’s been a blessing to me and my family. Knowing I had made my decision to retire, having a successful season and winning ball games made it a lot more enjoyable.”

going to have the chance to play at the next level.

Whether he will be a quarterback or not is yet to be determined, and if he plays football or basketball hasn’t been decided yet either. Rogers is also the reigning basketball player of the year in the county, and he’s off to a great start to his senior campaign on the hardwood. No matter what he

help the team. So he moved to linebacker. While he didn’t get as many pass rushing opportunities, he still changed the game. He took away passing lanes by playing in coverage and tracked down running backs out of the backfield with his speed.

“I like playing that hybrid role where I’m both on the line and a linebacker,” Arnold said. “They asked me to play that role when we were struggling, and I feel like it went pretty well overall. I grew up playing linebacker, but the defensive line has taught me more about the game. I think playing both is the perfect spot for me.”

Stanhope Elmore has a knack for having powerful defensive linemen. The Mustangs have sent multiple plates to the next level, and that starts from middle school up. The coaches take pride in identifying players at the middle school level that they feel will fill the defensive line, a position of need for the Mustangs. Oddly enough, Arnold wasn’t one of those players identified in middle school. Arnold wasn’t a defensive lineman until his junior season of high school. In his own words, he was a skinny kid. Up until his sophomore year, he

decides to do, Woods knows he will be successful.

“Nate is a Division I athlete at any position,” Woods said. “He can go in and play for a team right now, no matter what position he’s in. He has a very high ceiling at the next level. What you see from him is a guy who is a college football player right now playing at the high school level.”

weighed no heavier than around 170 pounds. He played in the secondary then as well, mostly as a strong safety. As his weight changed and he got stronger in the Mustangs’ strength program, he moved to linebacker.

But going into his junior year, Adams realized quickly he needed to be on the line.

“It really wasn’t until his junior season that we found out just how disruptive he could be with his hand in the dirt,” Adams said. “We put him in that position against the pass and he became a game changer for us. He just has a knack for finding the football.”

Despite having to be moved to linebacker, Arnold still turned in one of the most impressive seasons a defensive player has had at Stanhope Elmore.

He accomplished that by taking in all his knowledge, from the secondary to the trenches, and putting it together in one final campaign for the Mustangs.

“It was a pretty good year,” Arnold said. “Last year I had 12 sacks and I wanted to push myself to get more this year. I didn’t know I was going to accomplish this, but I just went out there and did it. It was hard, but I pushed myself to do it. I told myself I wanted to be the greatest.”

Holtville’s Jason Franklin led the Bulldogs to a 7-4 overall record and a home playoff game in his final season leading the team.

All-State team announced

STAFF REPORT

By TPI Staff

On Saturday, the Alabama Sports Writers Association announced the 2023 All-State team.

In the three county coverage area of Tallapoosa Publishers, nine players were selected. Reeltown led the way with five total players selected to the team.

Benjamin Russell had three players selected and Wetumpka had one.

The Rebels had three First-Team All-State selections as Arthur Woods, Bowman Brumbeloe and Tae Martin all made the team. Woods was selected as

a running back, Brumbeloe as an offensive lineman and Martin as an athlete.

Punter Demetrius Brown was selected to the Second-Team and two-way athlete Finn Henderson was an Honorable Mention offensive lineman.

For the Wildcats, four-star Auburn commit Malcolm Simmons was selected to the 6A First-Team as a receiver.

Quarterback Gabe Benton was selected to the Second-Team.

T.J. Wilson also made the Second-Team, earning his spot on the list as an athlete.

Clark Barker of

Wetumpka was the only player selected from Elmore County, making the list as an Honorable Mention offensive lineman. Both Barker and Simmons competed in the Mississippi-Alabama All-Star game. Woods represented the South team in this year’s North-South All-Star game.

Finalists for the back and lineman of the year awards are tentatively planned for release on Wednesday, Dec. 27. Winners, Super All-State and Mr. Football will be named Tuesday, Jan. 16 at a luncheon banquet in the Montgomery Renaissance.

Continued from A7

13 touchdowns. He added 345 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns.

RB: ARTHUR MCQUEEN, STANHOPE ELMORE

Stanhope Elmore’s star running back lit up the field every single Friday night as he rushed for over 100 yards in 9 of the 10 games he played in.

The junior back rushed for 1,420 yards and totaled 1,705 all purpose yards as he found the end zone 13 times this season.

RB: CJ WILKES, ELMORE COUNTY

Despite missing a few games due to injury and not playing at 100% all season, Wilkes once again showcased his skill running the ball. The senior rushed only 99 times but turned that into 677 yards and 9 touchdowns. He had to play some defense this year as well and recorded 39 tackles and 1 sack.

WR: JABARI MURPHY, ELMORE COUNTY

Jabari Murphy proved once again to be the best receiver in the county as he recorded 37 catches for 500 yards and 5 touchdowns. Having to play running back as well, he rushed for 363 yards and 5 more touchdowns. For his season, he was selected to play in the AHSAA North-South All-Star Football Classic.

WR: ERIK ADKINS, HOLTVILLE

Erik Adkins capped off an already impressive career with a stellar senior season. The speedy receiver recorded a county-high 41 catches for 586 yards and four touchdowns. He made his presence known rushing the ball too as he added two touchdowns on the ground.

ATH: CADE EVERSON, ELMORE COUNTY

Much like he was at Tallassee early in his career, Cade Everson proved to be a game changer in a Panthers’ uniform. The Elmore County senior played receiver, running back and quarterback and scored a team-high 21

touchdowns. He had 698 rushing, 437 receiving and 125 passing yards.

ATH: BROCK WHITT, EDGEWOOD ACADEMY Whitt, Edgewood’s sophomore do-it-all player who stands at 6-foot-4, played quarterback, tight end, receiver, defensive line and linebacker this year. He recorded 5 rushing touchdowns, 1 receiving touchdown and 2 passing touchdowns. On defense, he tallied 70 tackles, 12 tackles for loss, 2 sacks and 2 interceptions. He also blocked two field goals and one punt.

OL: CLARK BARKER, WETUMPKA

Playing at right guard for the Indians, Barker helped lead an impressive rushing attack from the Indians. Barker recorded a team-high 11 pancake blocks and was selected as one of the top offensive linemen in the state as he played in the AHSAA Alabama-Mississippi All-Star Football Classic.

OL: TRISTAN GULLEDGE, HOLTVILLE

After jumping onto radars everywhere this summer via camps, Gulledge turned in one of the most dominant senior campaigns of the entire state. The Holtville tackle graded out at a county-best 91% this year with 88 pancake blocks. He allowed only one sack all season.

OL: JONATHAN THAMES, ELMORE COUNTY

There weren’t many better offensive linemen than Jonathan Thames this year. The 6-foot6 senior helped lead Elmore County to backto-back playoff appearances while recording a team-high 43 pancake blocks. He graded out at 88% and gave up only one sack the entire season.

OL: MACIN JAMES, STANHOPE ELMORE James, only a sophomore, is the youngest offensive lineman to make this list. Helping the Mustangs rush for over 200 yards per game, he graded out at 84% playing both guard and center. He recorded 17

pancake blocks on the year and gave up no sacks.

OL: ZAYNE TALLEY, EDGEWOOD ACADEMY

Edgewood’s junior offensive tackle had a great year as he helped lead the Wildcats to the first round of the AISA Class AA playoffs. Talley graded out at 83% while also playing defensive line the entire year. On defense, he recorded 76 tackles with 17 tackles for loss and 2 sacks.

OL: BRADEN ARNOLD, TALLASSEE As Braden Arnold capped off an impressive career in the trenches with Tallassee, he proved once again to be one of the toughest offensive linemen in the area. Leading the Tigers to a strong rushing attack, Arnold was the team’s best offensive lineman this season.

DL: DONNIE ARNOLD, STANHOPE ELMORE Arnold led the county in sacks this year, and could’ve had even more had he not been moved to hybrid linebacker role midway through the season. Despite the move, Arnold recorded 16.5 sacks to go along with 60 tackles, 31 quarterback pressures and 16 tackles for loss.

DL: ETHAN BAILEY, WETUMPKA

Ethan Bailey was as dominant as they come for Wetumpka this year. The junior defensive end had nearly half of Wetumpka’s total sacks as he recorded 61 total tackles, 9 sacks, 13 tackles for loss and 11 quarterback pressures. He also forced 3 fumbles.

DL: BRANDON WHITE, ELMORE COUNTY Brandon White decided to play football for his senior season, and head coach Kyle Caldwell is very glad he did. The senior defensive end lived in opposing backfields as he recorded 57 tackles, 12 tackles for loss, 8 sacks and even intercepted 2 passes.

DL: ANTHONY CHUNN, HOLTVILLE

In only 10 games played, Anthony Chunn

made his presence known by consistently getting into opposing backfields. The junior defensive end recorded 58 total tackles, 18 tackles for loss and a team-leading 12 sacks.

DL: THOMAS WILLIAMS, STANHOPE ELMORE

Williams was part of the two-headed monster of Stanhope Elmore defensive ends this year. The senior tallied 57 total tackles to go with 12.5 sacks, 16 quarterback pressures, 18 tackles for loss, 1 forced fumble and 1 touchdown.

LB: CLEANGELO PEAKE, WETUMPKA

Peake, despite missing some time due to injury, turned in one of the most well-rounded seasons of any defensive player in the county. The junior finished the year with 55 tackles, 7 tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks, 2 interceptions and 1 forced fumble.

LB: LUKE STRENGTH, HOLTVILLE

If there was a tackle being made from Holtville’s defense, it was almost a guarantee that Luke Strength was at least part of it. The ball hawk flew around the field this year as he recorded 122 tackles, 8 tackles for loss, 2 sacks and 2 interceptions. He also blocked three punts and four PATs.

LB: PARKER SHAW, EDGEWOOD ACADEMY

While playing both sides of the ball at an elite level, Parker Shaw always found himself around the football. The senior linebacker recorded 121 total tackles, 83 of which were solo tackles, and he added 6 tackles for loss. On offense, he had a team-high 441 rushing yards with 3 touchdowns.

LB: JACKSON MANN, ELMORE COUNTY

Despite only being a junior, Mann has already established himself as one of the top players in the county and flies around to the football. That was no different this year as he recorded 60 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, 3 forced fumbles, 8 passes defended, 3 blocked punts and 1 blocked field goal.

LB: KAMRAN ANDERSON, STANHOPE ELMORE

KamRan Anderson found himself all over the field for the Mustangs as he played a hybrid role of linebacker and defensive line. While doing so, he ended the year with a team-high 71 tackles with 9 tackles for loss, 5.5 sacks and 8 quarterback pressures.

LB: JOSEPH HOOKS, TALLASSEE

For the second-straight season, Hooks was a bright spot on Tallassee’s defense. The senior linebacker made his presence known not only by being one of the team’s top tacklers but by also being one of the top running backs on the roster.

DB: GABE LEMASTER, EDGEWOOD ACADEMY

Much like he has in his entire career, LeMaster was a ballhawk in the secondary for his final season. The senior safety recorded a county-high 7 interceptions while tallying 72 total tackles and 3 tackles for loss. On offense, he had 786 total yards with 7 touchdowns, and he added a kickoff return for a touchdown.

DB: ORENTHAL MARTIN, STANHOPE ELMORE

Orenthal proved to be an elite defender both in the pass game and the run game. To finish off his high school football career, he recorded 58 total tackles (34 solo tackles), 6 tackles for loss, 8 passes defended and 1 interception. He also blocked a punt and scored a defensive touchdown.

DB: JAYDEN BENNETT, WETUMPKA

Playing a hybrid role as both a cornerback and safety, Bennett had a knack for disrupting passes this season. To go along with his 23 total tackles, Bennett had a team-high 7 pass breakups with 1 sack and 1 forced fumble.

DB: CEDRICK CROSKEY, HOLTVILLE Croskey made his presence known on all three facets of the game, but he was most effective intercepting passes in Holtville’s secondary. The junior cornerback

had a team-leading 3 interceptions and 3 forced fumbles to go with 53 total tackles.

K: COLBY BEYER, STANHOPE ELMORE

Beyer made the most of every opportunity he was given during a standout junior season. The star kicker made 36 of his 37 PATs while knocking down 4 of his 6 field goal attempts. He also served as the team’s punter and averaged 33.4 yards per punt.

P: ELIJAH HEADLEY, HOLTVILLE Elijah Headley consistently flipped the field to put Holtville’s defense in good positions. In 27 punt attempts, Headley averaged 35 yards per punt and pinned opposing offenses inside the 20-yard line 9 times. As a receiver, he had 18 catches for 279 yards and 5 touchdowns.

RETURNER: JAMARION THRASHER, WETUMPKA Jamarion Thrasher has been known as one of the speediest players in the county, and that showed this year in the return game. On 18 returns, he averaged 27.1 yards per return and scored 2 touchdowns. On offense, he had 637 total yards and 3 touchdowns.

HONORABLE MENTION EDGEWOOD ACADEMY: Jackson Hudson (OL), Cooper Freeman (LB), Will Reeves (OL/DL).

ELMORE COUNTY: Caleb Spivey (DE), Connor Pike (LB), Trevor Brown (OL), Ryals McNeely (QB), Luke Reinert (DL).

HOLTVILLE: Dok Barton (DL/OL), Hunter Chavis (RB), Carson Reese (OL), Josh Jimenez (LB/ RB), Clifford Edwards (OL).

STANHOPE ELMORE: Jamari Coleman (WR), Dashaun Caffee (DB), Bunny Jackson (DL), Xavier Foxhall (OL).

TALLASSEE: Jaiden McKenzie (RB/WR), Trent Morris (QB), Alec Carswell (K), Christian McCary (RB/LB), Ja’Twon Griffin (OL).

WETUMPKA: Mike Dillard (RB/LB), Malik Owens (WR), Ethan Blake (DL), Davin Lee (DB), JD Denmark (DL), Patrick Barfoot (OL).

Reeltown running back Arthur Woods was one of five players from Reeltown selected to the 2023 All-State team.

SPORTS CALENDAR

Job Opportunities

Are you looking for employment at this time? Are you currently employed and wanting to make a career change?

We have job opportunities in both the Alexander City area and the Dadeville area. Let us get you started on If you are interested, please contact Alex City Branch at 256-329-3477 for

LLC—SYLACAUGA, AL 35150

Class A CDL Training Get your CDL in 3-4 Weeks Call or come by for more Information 256-245-0707 or 36525 US Highway 280 Sylacauga, AL 35150 Or on FB @ Level One ELDT Tree Service

BRIAN’S TREE SERVICE •TREES CUT FROM THE TOP DOWN! •SAFE TREE REMOVAL IN CONFINED AREAS! •STUMP GRINDING! •GENERAL LIABILITY •WORKERS COMP

WWW.BRIANSTREE.COM

AlaScans y when you call!

EDUCATION

ATTENTION ACTIVE Duty & Military Veterans! Begin a new career and earn your Degree at CTI! Online Computer & Medical training available for Veterans & Families! To learn more, call 866-475-1014 (M-F 8am-6pm ET).

HEALTH/BEAUTY

ATTENTION OXYGEN THERAPY USERS! Inogen One G4 is capable of full 24/7 oxygen delivery. Only 2.8 pounds. FREE information kit. Call 844-322-9935.

ATTENTION: VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS! A cheaper alternative to high drugstore prices! 50 Pill Special - $99 +FREE Shipping! 100% guaranteed. CALL NOW: 866-505-0828. FOR SALE

DirecTV Satellite TV Service Starting at $59.99/month! Free Installation! 160+ channels available. Call Now to Get the Most Sports & Entertainment on TV! 844-594-7108

NEED NEW Flooring? Call Empire Today to schedule a Free in-home estimate on Carpeting and Flooring. Call Today! 1-888-381-0916.

UPDATE YOUR HOME with Beautiful New Blinds & Shades. FREE in-home estimates make it convenient to shop from home. Professional installation. Top quality - Made in the USA. Call for free consultation: 844-809-9165. Ask about our specials!

AlaScans

can install a new, custom bath or shower in as little as one day. For a limited time, we're waiving all installation costs! to change and vary by dealer. Offer ends 12/31/23 Call 1-877-205-0836

Replace your roof with the best looking and

MOVING: Call today for a FREE QUOTE from America's Most Trusted Interstate Movers. Let us take the stress out of moving! Speak to a Relocation Specialist, call 844-925-3534

WATER DAMAGE CLEANUP & RESTORATION: A small amount of water can lead to in your home. Our trusted professionals do complete repairs to protect your family and your home's value! Call 24/7: 1-877-727-2344 Have zip code of service location ready

Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today. 20%

Public Notices

SJA, INC. DADEVILLE, AL ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR THE FOLLOWING POSITIONS: HR Manager [Full-Time, On-Site]

Req’d: Bach’s Deg. Pref: Major in HR Mgmt. or Business Admin.

Job Duties: Personnel Mgmt, Employee Compensation and Benefits Mgmt. and other HR Role and Responsibilities.

Manufacturing Supervisor [Full-Time, On-Site] Pref: Min. of 3 yrs previous supervisory exp. in the Automotive or Mfg. industry.

Manufacturing Team Leader [Full-Time, On-Site] Pref: Min. of 2 yrs previous supervisory exp. in the Automotive or Mfg. industry.

Mail Resume to 274 Thweatt Industrial Blvd, Dadeville, AL 36853 or email to sjahr@sejinamerica.com SJA, INC is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

SANTA-LAWS SERVES

‘GIFT WARRANTS’

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

All of Eclectic was a buzz Thursday with all the lights and sirens.

One might have thought the Eclectic Police Department was running to another emergency, but no. It was a case of Santa-Laws bringing cheer to the town with “gift warrants.”

the nice list.

with toys.

There has been unexpected deaths of children, an officer and teachers with cancer.

Head was happy to be a part of a little fun for children and adults.

“I came in from vacation for this,” Head said. “I wanted to see the smiles on the kids and my officers.”

EDP’s Zach Lyles took charge. Police and fire vehicles served as the sleigh and were stuffed

“We need this,” Eclectic police chief Robert Head said. “We have had a tough year or two around here.”

“We just wanted to bring a little Christmas cheer,” Lyles said. “We all could use some.”

Lyles donned a Santa then covered it with his bulletproof vest.

“I have to protect Santa from the bad guys,” Lyles said.

Santa-Laws even had a list. It started with a Facebook post seeking requests. Then the law enforcement elves narrowed it down to

Head and I shared personal stories. We are both similar in our own ways. Like journalists, law enforcement is stoic in the moment of response.

“We have to be,” Head said.

“If we don’t somebody gets hurt.”

I could relate. In reporting tough stories, my thoughts quickly go to how can I report this to get the news out but respectfully. At the final stop, a few modest homes were close together. In one was a family that helped Head as a young man. “I saw an old man and wanted to help,” Head said.

“We got a late start this year,” Lyles said. “We could only serve gift warrants to the most deserving.”

Head and Lyles plan to start a little earlier next year.

“We want to make it bigger,” Lyles said. “We already have some businesses say they want to help.”

The elves, also known as

Then it was a slow parade around town with lights a flashing and sirens a sounding. There were stops at homes where the department has responded to before. There were children they knew. They were all seen in a better light Thursday as Santa-Laws was bearing gifts.

“Those smiles make it all worth it,” Lyles said. “It just makes Christmas better.”

“I worked a day and thought, ‘How can this old man outwork me?’”

Head said the man just worked and lived to be more than 100 years old. Now the man’s family remains. It takes care of others just as their ancestors did.

“They turn away almost no one,” Head said. “If someone

needs a place to lay their head for the night, they will welcome you in. These are the kind of people we need more of. I’m very proud they helped my father and myself. I would not be here today without them.” I could tell from the stories Head shared with me he emulates this family himself. In that moment, I realized Head isn’t

just a cop. He and his other officers out there everyday are just like you and I. We have emotions and make mistakes. It is how we move on from them and learn that makes us all better.

Cliff Williams is the news editor of Tallapoosa Publishers’ Elmore County newspapers.

PHOTOS BY CLIFF WILLIAMS THE OBSERVER

was serving warrants last week ahead of Christmastime — warrants of gift-giving, that is. Eclectic Police Department officers Zach Lyles, dressed as Santa, and Zach Davidson took charge, serving gifts to all the nice kids of Eclectic.