February 17, 2021 Tallassee Tribune

ECLECTIC, B6

LOCAL, PAGE A6

SPORTS, PAGE B1

REELTOWN SEASON ENDS WITH FORFEIT BLACK History MONTH

Town set to host community yard sale

Trade Days may return to downtown Tallassee INSIDE:

LOCAL FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS, PAGE A2

The Tallassee Tribune Dedicated to the Growth and Prosperity of the Greater Tallassee area

Tallassee, AL 36078

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February 17, 2021

TallasseeTribune.com

VOL. 123, NO.7

Auburn accounting professor offers tax tips

STAFF REPORT TPI Staff

Auburn University Professor Kimberly Key provides information on tax preparation, tax laws and the effect of COVID-19 stimulus checks. She

serves as the PWC Professor of Accounting in Auburn University’s Harbert College of Business. The IRS began accepting tax filings on Feb. 12.

Question: How might tax preparation be different this year? Should we expect

Arrest made in fatal shooting of 4-year-old Tuskegee boy

an influx of people using online services rather than the traditional brick-and-mortar methods?

Answer: Professional tax preparation businesses have had plenty of time to plan and prepare for a filing season in

a COVID environment. Most preparers are ready to do their work and serve their clients in a variety of ways: in person with masks, drop off at an office or virtually. Taxpayers can call an office or check online for details for specific preparers. Several

Auburn University accounting students do volunteer tax preparation with SaveFirst, an Alabama organization dedicated to providing free tax preparation to lower-income residents. Their See TAXES • Page A3

REMEMBERING MACKENZIE

STAFF REPORT TPI Staff

The Tuskegee Police Department has made an arrest in reference to the Saturday shooting that killed a 4-yearold boy.

The shooting happened in the 500 Washington block of Pleasant Springs Drive at 5 p.m. Upon arrival officers located a single gunshot victim, 4-year-old Davion Tarver. Tarver was first taken to Baptist South in Montgomery and then to Children’s Hospital in Birmingham in critical condition. He passed away from his injuries shortly after 10:45 a.m. Monday.

On Sunday, Feb. 14, police arrested Joshua Washington, 18, of Tuskegee.

Washington is charged with murder and discharging a firearm into an occupied building/dwelling. He was placed into the Macon County Jail without incident.

Tuskegee Police Chief Loyd Jenkins III said he is thankful for the public’s help, as well as the assistance his department received from other agencies.

“First, I want to ask that you keep See MURDER • Page A6

File / The Tribune

Jordan Simmons and Trisha Hackney are the newest house-mothers for Tallassee’s House of Love and Mercy. Pictured from left are Nina Gauntt, Simmons, Hackney, and Bishop Adolphus Gauntt.

Vigil honors teen killed in wreck

T Carmen Rodgers / The Tribune

Top: First Baptist Church Youth Minister Brandon Fomby delivered a Message of Hope during the memorial service for Mackenzie Gunn on Sunday as community, classmates, family and friends honored her with a candlelight vigil.

he Tallassee High School campus was filled with classmates, friends, family, and supporting members of the community as the Class of 2021 held a memorial service for late class member, Makenzie Gunn, who was killed in an automobile wreck on Feb. 5. She was only See VIGIL • Page A3

House of Love and Mercy offers place for everyone

By CARMEN RODGERS Bureau Chief

God’s Congregational Holiness Church and the House of Love and Mercy have been serving the Tallassee community for decades.

The women’s shelter serves women during their darkest days and aims to help them regain their self-esteem and confidence

so that they can find their path to success in life, and the church is a safe harbor for everyone. The shelter would not exist without the church.

GCHC Pastor Adolphus Gauntt opened the doors to the women’s shelter 20 years ago and in that time, it has served countless women; however, the HOLM would not exist today without the

support of an entire community.

“All of the churches in Tallassee support the House of Love and Mercy,” Gauntt said.

“We are very grateful for the support we receive.”

It may not seem it today, but GCHC started from humble beginnings. Gauntt was born See HOLM • Page A3

Today’s

Weather

50 45 High

Low

CONTACT US 334-567-7811 Fax: 334-567-3284

THURS: HIGH 55 LOW 31

USPS 681-260

Page A2 • February 17, 2021

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Obituaries

Police Reports

Kathy Goodman Taylor

Louise Wall Butler Ennis

Kathy Goodman Taylor, a beloved wife, mother, sister, daughter, friend, and grandmother, was called home on February 11, 2021 at the age of 68. A celebration of her life will be held Monday February 15th, at First Baptist Church Tallassee at 12:00 in the afternoon. The family will receive friends from 10:30 a.m.

- noon. Kathy, known as “Mommaw” by the grandchildren she cherished most in the world, was born February 29, 1952.

She was married to her Carl Ezra, her great love of 49 years. Kathy never met a stranger, and will be remembered for her generous hugs and constant smile.

Kathy found joy in the simple things in life; loving her family, spending days on Lake Martin, and making others laugh with her QVC shopping indulgences.

Kathy was greeted in heaven by her beloved dog Max, who passed shortly before her. A graduate of Tallassee High School (Class of 1970) Kathy remained connected to her classmates throughout her life, attending monthly lunches with her lifelong friends. Upon completing high school, she became a dental hygienist and then moved on to become an instructional assistant at Tallassee Elementary.

She retired from Tallassee Elementary after 25 years. Kathy leaves behind her beloved husband Carl along with her children Tammy Knapp (Chris), Travis Taylor (Heather), her grandchildren Carly Williams (Preston), Trent Garnett (Janice Ward), Davis Knapp, Ashton Knapp, Kinsley Catrett (Michael), Seth Harvell, and Ben Riley Harvell, and brother Donald Goodman (Paula). Mommaw was able to hang on long enough to hear her granddaughter Carly share the news that her first great-grandbaby would be entering the world in August. She was overjoyed and went to meet the Lord knowing her great grandbaby would be a little boy.

She was also able to spend time with her foster great-grandchildren, the great joys of her life. She is preceded in death by parents, James and Mary Goodman, and in-laws Melvin and Hixie Taylor. She leaves behind a legacy of helping others, and inspiring those who love her to give when they can. Kathy was an enormous advocate for teaching and helping children, and her impact will be felt over multiple lifetimes. Her children, grandchildren, and now great-grandchildren are committed to carrying on her legacy of love, friendship, and devotion to those she loved. For those who wish to attend, we strongly urge that you please follow CDC guidelines by wearing your mask and practice social distancing.

Death is not extinguishing the light. It is putting out the lamp because dawn has come. –Tagore Online condolences are available @ www.jeffcoatfuneralhome.com.

Mrs. Louise Wall Butler Ennis, a resident of Tallassee, Alabama, passed away February 13, 2021, at the age of 97. A celebration of life service will be held Friday, February 19, 2021 at 11 a.m. graveside at Pleasant Grove Cemetery, Eclectic, Alabama, with Rev. Brandon Fomby officiating, Jeffcoat Funeral Home directing. She is survived by her children; Linda Reed, Peggy Taylor, Wayne Butler (Gayle), Mickey Butler, Sr. (Cheryl); grandchildren, John Thornton, Amy Dorminey, Paula Wilson Coker, Michael Wayne Taylor, Pam Taylor Breedlove, Deana Butler Gray, Doug Butler, Keith Butler, Kim McCullough, Mickey Butler, Jr., and many great grandchildren and great great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her husbands, Irvin M. Butler and Wiley L. Ennis and her parents, Charlie and Flossie Wall. Mrs. Ennis was the last living sibling of seven sisters and one brother.

Serving as active Pallbearers will be Michael Wayne Taylor, Doug Butler, Keith Butler, Josh Dorminey, Austin Dorminey, Wiatt Watson, Grayson Hammonds, Austin Gray, and Mark McGhee. Mrs. Ennis worked at the Mount Vernon Mills in Tallassee for 45 dedicated years. She is known by many for cooking the best biscuits and for her baking and canning skills.

She had a true love for all her grandchildren who will cherish her memories with great love.

Special recognition to fur-baby Maggie, who stayed by her side to the end. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in her memory to the John Martin Thornton Memorial Scholarship Fund through Central Alabama Community Foundation @ https://cacfinfo.org/scholarships/john-martin-thornton-memorial-scholarship/. For those who wish to attend, we strongly urge that you please follow CDC guidelines by wearing your mask and practicing social distancing.

Online condolences are available at: www.jeffcoatfuneralhome.com.

Jeffcoat Funeral Home Directing Tallassee, Alabama

The Tallassee Tribune

Jeffcoat Funeral Home Directing Tallassee, Alabama

Marjorie Lynn Hannahs (Lynn) Mrs. Marjorie Lynn Hannahs (Lynn) 66, of Eclectic, Alabama and Ft Walton Bch, Florida gained her heavenly wings on Sunday, February 7th, 2021.

Lynn was preceded in death by her parents Eugene Lavon Ashley and Mary Elizabeth Ashley; stepson Robert Wells. She is survived by her husband, Raymond Hannahs, daughter Sherry Kones of Eclectic, Alabama, stepson Shawn Tharp of Tallassee, Alabama, one brother Randall Ashley of Gardendale, Alabama, one sister Denise Buckner (David) of Tallassee, Alabama, two granddaughters Kirsten and Kylie, step granddaughter Leanne and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Lynn had a kind spirit and a loving heart of servitude. She always reached out to those in need to let them know she was there, She was the neighborhood mother and grandmother to all of her daughter and granddaughter’s friends and the wife a man could only hope for. This day she sees the glorious face of Jesus.Today she no longer suffers. In her bible she had this verse written on a card. 1 Peter 5:10 And the God of all Grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.

A celebration of life will be held at 11:00am, Saturday, February 20th, 2021 at BEBC in Kent Alabama

Jean M. Boulware Mrs. Jean M. Boulware, a resident of Clanton, Alabama, passed away Tuesday, February 9, 2021, at the age of 80. Graveside services will be held Thursday, February 11, 2021, at 1:00 p.m. from Rose Hill Cemetery with Erron Price and Randall Mims officiating, Jeffcoat Funeral Home directing. Mrs. Boulware is survived by her husband, Tom Boulware; son, Kelvin Boulware (Kim); daughters, Gina Willis (Ken) and Ellen Daughtry (Vernon); five grandchildren, Laura Varden (Aaron), Heather Shropshire (Blake), Luke Willis (Hailey), Russell Boulware, Perry Boulware; three great grandchildren, Ryley Willis, Abram Willis and Camille Willis. For those who wish to attend, we strongly urge that you please follow CDC guidelines by wearing your mask and practice social distancing.

Online condolences are available at: www.jeffcoatfuneralhome.com.

Jeffcoat Funeral Home Directing Tallassee, Alabama

Feb. 8

TPD worked school crossing on AL Hwy 229.

TPD worked school crossing on Friendship Road.

Officers with TPD assisted with a medical call on Pinehurst Street.

Officers with TPD assisted another agency on Rifle Range Road.

A report was made for forgery on Indian Trail.

Officers with TPD served a subpoena on Jordan Avenue.

Officers with TPD served three subpoenas on 3rd Avenue.

Officers with TPD served a subpoena on N Ann Avenue.

Negative contact was made following an attempt to serve a subpoena on S Tallassee Drive.

Negative contact was made following an attempt to serve a subpoena on Wall Street.

A report for harassment was made on Grimes Street.

A report was made following a walk-in on Barnett Boulevard.

Two arrests were made for disorderly conduct on Gilmer Avenue.

A DUI arrest was made following a traffic stop on traffic stop on S Ann Avenue.

Police made negative contact following a report of panhandling on Gilmer Avenue.

TPD advised following a walk-in on Barnett Boulevard.

Officers with TPD assisted with a medical call on N Ann Avenue.

Advice was given for a report of a suspicious person on Notasulga Road.

A report was made for the unauthorized use of vehicle on 1st Avenue.

TPD worked school crossing on Friendship Road.

TPD worked school crossing on AL Hwy 229.

A verbal warning was given following a traffic stop on Friendship Road.

A verbal warning was given following a traffic stop on AL Hwy 229.

A verbal warning was

given following a traffic stop on Log Circle.

A verbal warning was given following a traffic stop on Barnett Boulevard.

A verbal warning was given following a traffic stop on Jordan Avenue.

A supplemental report was made on a follow up on Macedonia Road.

Officers with TPD advised following an animal complaint on Riverside Avenue.

A report for harassment was made on Gilmer Avenue.

A report for harassment was made on Gilmer Avenue.

Advice was given for a report of panhandling on Gilmer Avenue.

Advice was given for a report of panhandling on Gilmer Avenue.

TPD gave extra residential patrol on Jordan Avenue.

TPD gave extra residential patrol on Notasulga Road.

A citation was issued following a traffic stop on Hillcrest Street.

TPD gave extra residential patrol on Redden Avenue.

A warrant arrest was made on Gilmer Avenue.

TPD gave extra residential patrol on Bent Oak Lane.

Feb. 9

TPD gave extra residential patrol on Rickey Lane.

TPD gave extra residential patrol on E Patton Street.

TPD gave extra residential patrol on Poplar Street.

A residence was secured following a report for suspicious activity on Patterson Street.

TPD gave extra business patrol on Notasulga Road.

Negative contact was made for a welfare check on Washington Street.

Negative contact was made following a report of a domestic incident on Riley Road.

Officers with TPD assisted a motorist on Jordan Avenue.

The Tallassee Tribune

Vigil 18-years-old.

The Sunday evening memorial service was held on the front lawn of Tallassee High School.

THS Student Body President, Emma Kate Holley opened the memorial service with a welcome speech. The welcome speech was followed by a moving rendition of “Hallelujah” performed by Leslie Swicord and Jerry Cunningham.

AnnaMarie Gregory led a prayer, followed by a message of hope from First Baptist Church Youth Minister,

Taxes filing season will be virtual only.

Question: Are there any changes to the tax code this year compared to last year? Should individuals expect any COVID-related income tax breaks?

Answer: 2020 tax rules are nearly identical to 2019, but a temporary change for 2020 and 2021 affects individuals with a spirit of helping others. Cash donations to qualifying charitable organizations are deductible even if the taxpayer/donor takes the standard deduction instead of itemizing deductions. The maximum 2020 deduction is $300. For 2021 donations, unmarried taxpayers can deduct up to $300 and married filing joint taxpayers can deduct up to $600. The IRS estimates that 87% of taxpayers take the standard deduction, so this tax rule potentially affects many people.

Question: Will COVID-19 stimulus funds be taxed?

Answer: The short answer is no.

These funds are technically federal tax credits, and there is no mechanism to somehow turn around and make the funds taxable.

The state level is a little more interesting, with the short answer also no. Alabama is one of only a few states that allows a deduction for a taxpayer’s federal tax liability.

Logically, a taxpayer whose federal tax liability is lower than it would have been because of a federal tax credit should have a lower corresponding state tax deduction. However, it is nearly impossible to get people to understand that logic. Therefore, the governor passed an executive order to ensure that the stimulus funds will not affect the state tax deduction. In early February, legislators introduced a bill to ensure that the order stands.

Question: With many people working out of their homes now due to COVID, can they use this situation to their tax

www.TallasseeTribune.com

continued from Page A1

February 17, 2021 • Page A3

HOLM

continued from Page A1

Brandon Fomby.

Swicord also sang, along with Cory Eckstein, “Dancing in the Sky”.

Following Gunn’s untimely passing, THS Class of 2021 started a campaign to raise funds for Mothers Against Drunk Driving, MADD, and so far, they have raised $640 for the cause.

To close out the evening memorial, Faith Adams initiated the Lighting of Remembrance, and that was followed with a candlelight delivery of the Tallassee High School Alma Mater.

continued from Page A1 advantage and write off home-related expenses, such as power and water or expenses like a desk and new computer equipment?

Answer: No for employees. These expenses were potentially deductible in the past but starting in 2018 that rule was eliminated. However, self-employed taxpayers continue to be able to deduct expenses for a qualifying home office.

If a self-employed individual’s homebased work environment changed during 2020, it would be worth investigating the rules.

Question: Should people expect a refund to be less or more than in the past?

Answer: It depends. If a taxpayer’s situation is mostly the same for 2020 as it was for 2019, then a refund should be about the same. Any significant life events like marriage or the birth of a child or a change in income or expenses, such as a mortgage on a new home, can change a taxpayer’s taxable income and refund (or amount due to the IRS and state). Some individuals who did not receive any stimulus payments may find that they have lower taxable income in 2020 compared to 2019. In that case, they may be pleasantly surprised to benefit from the stimulus when filing their 2020 tax returns.

Question: With a new administration in Washington, should we expect a different tax code either this year or in the future, and if so, what could we expect?

Answer: We will have to wait and see. President Biden campaigned on a platform of raising taxes. Congress is obviously an important part of any tax law changes, so there will be a political process to navigate to make any changes. COVID-related issues will likely dominate the next few months, so it is hard to predict when taxes might come on the radar in Washington, D.C.

File / The Tribune

GCHC First Lady Nina Gauntt with Tasha Jeffcoat who was saved by the HOLM in 2002

in Tallassee and has lived here all of his life. He first started ministering in a local neighborhood, going door-to-door with his message.

“I was over a local ministry in Wall Street,” Gauntt said. “We went into the houses. It was me and about six others.”

Gauntt continued to serve residents in the Wall Street community for over a year.

All the while, maintaining focus on his goal of opening a local church that would serve people of all races.

“We did that for about a year,” he explained. “We were saving our money.

Once we had money saved, we opened in Jordanville and we have been an interracial church since then.”

The HOLM would not exist today, had it not been for GCHC. The two go hand-inhand.

“One of the greatest things that came from the church was the House of Love and Mercy,” Gauntt said.

It was during a mission trip to South America where Gauntt realized the need for a local women’s shelter.

“The women down there, they cannot afford to care for their children so they have to go to the orphanage. We were supporting that orphanage and it was named The House of Love and Mercy. So, we came back to Tallassee and opened the shelter and called it by that same name,” Gauntt said.

Like the GCHC, HOLM’s doors were, and still are, open to all people regardless of their background.

“Our first clients were a Hispanic and a Caucasian girl, and 20 years later we are still going,” Gauntt said. “We get girls from all over the place, Minnesota, Florida, Texas, Louisiana, Georgia, girls from all of the surrounding states have come to the

house right here in Tallassee.”

The HOLM and GCHC offer a warm safe environment that allows people to become relaxed and comfortable enough to feel right at home.

“We are family-oriented and we all bond like family and color doesn’t matter because we are all so close,” Gauntt said.

“Everyone calls me Pastor. The older women in the church are like mothers, and with that, we have been able to maintain that family dynamic, and we are able to build off that.”

During the time HOLM has been in operation, Gauntt has seen countless women come into the shelter, and over the years he remains in contact with many of them.

“In June it will be 21 years,” Gauntt said. “A lot of the girls are doing well, very successful.”

That success is a two-way street. While it is rewarding for the women who complete the program and go on to do great things, seeing that success is also rewarding to Gauntt and everyone who helps support the local shelter.

Tallassee’s Tasha Jeffcoat is just one of HOLM’s success stories. Jeffcoat entered the facility on Nov. 10, 2002.

“Not long after I entered the House of Love Mercy, I knew that was where I was supposed to go,” Jeffcoat said. “I knew I was safe there. It was also a place of rest. Rest from the world that I had totally screwed up living in. It was a spiritual place of refuge.”

According to Jeffcoat, it was that safe harbor that gave her the motivation and insight to seek the best path life had to offer.

“Being there allowed me to put my focus on allowing God to save and change my life,” she said.

HOLM allowed Jeffcoat to let go of her addiction and she found her salvation there also.

“The Lord saved me while I was in the House of Love and Mercy,” she said. “I received salvation and He also delivered me from my addiction to alcohol while I was living there and I have not drunk a drop since. It’s been 18 years this past.”

Jeffcoat said she is fully aware that had she not found HOLM when she did things would be much different and she would not be the person she is today.

“The House of Love and Mercy saved my life,” she said. “That’s what it did for me, it completely saved my life.”

GCHC and HOLM have both come along way, and according to Gauntt, there are no plans to stop serving the community anytime soon. In fact, he believes the church and shelter can make an even bigger impact in the future.

“I think with more resources, we can reach out to more people,” he said.

Let the sunshine in.

Open the blinds or shades and let the sunshine in to naturally heat your home.

For more ways to stay energy efficient when at home, visit alabamapower.com/tips.

APC-EEF 02/2021

Tallassee

Page A4 • February 17, 2021

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Our Mission

Dear reader, you broadened my perspective

The Tribune strives to report the news honestly, fairly and with integrity, to take a leadership role and act as a positive influence in our community, to promote business, to provide for the welfare of our employees, to strive for excellence in everything we do and above all, to treat others as we would want to be treated ourselves.

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L

ast week I went out on a limb and I shared my personal opinion about the much-debated potential minimum wage increase. I knew when I wrote the column that there would be some disagreement, and I do not like controversy. At all. Period. I like peace so much more. So, when I received a text message asking if I had read the response email regarding that column, my heart sank.

The last thing I want to do is to debate. Or argue.

You see, the older I get, the more I am aware of my finite amount of energy, and I choose carefully what battles are worth my energy and which are worthy

CARMEN RODGERS Bureau Chief of none.

I read the email and the sender had some really, really, good points. He brought up issues that could be associated with a minimum wage increase that I had not even thought of. Like people who are on a set-income. An increase in minimum wage could mean that corners will have to be cut somewhere. That was a very good point. There were several

The Tallassee Tribune

very good points in the response letter.

While we may not see eye-toeye on the subject, the response letter was very respectful and that is what I appreciate.

A good debate can be, well, good. This response letter gave me hope. Not everyone will fly off the handle if they read something that does not fit their narrative.

So, all I really want to say in this column is, “thank you.”

Thank you for reading, thank you for responding, and thank you for helping me broaden my own perspective.

It is OK to have a difference in opinion.

Newsroom Carmen Rodgers Bureau Chief, 334-283-6568 carmen.rodgers@tallasseetribune.com Darius Goodman Sports Editor, 334-350-3922 darius.goodman@alexcityoutlook.com Advertising Sales Andy Carr Marketing Consultant, 334-350-3921 andy.carr@tallasseetribune.com

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Letter to the Editor

Raising the minimum wage causes unintended consequences Dear Editor, I read your recent article on the $15 an hour wage debate with great interest. It is a highly debated conversation in the political arena that is gaining traction and continues to be at the forefront of social, political, economic and business discussions. After many years in business, I have witnessed first-hand the cause and effect of mandated wage requirements at the state and federal level. One political side talks about helping everyone make a living wage while the other talks about crippling corporate profits, eliminating jobs through automation, and soaring inflation. Both sides have well intended attributes. After several years of overseeing operations for a 1.6 billion dollar company with a 400 million dollar labor force of 40,000 employees, and now being a small business owner, I believe that I have a unique perspective on the subject and would like to share my view through the eyes of personal experience. I am confident that all of us will survive the outcome, but we should be careful what we wish for. The degree in which minimum wage requirements go up, will produce a greater impact, good or bad, depending on your view, position, and or personal stage in life.

Rather than approach this through the lens of politics, these are in my opinion, the “real world” facts.

Who it Helps:

• The Employee – Increased wages is a good thing. Short term, it creates more disposable income for the workforce, and it feels good. Not all employers are created equal. Some need to pay more because margins and success warrants it, and employees deserve it.

• Government – It immediately creates more tax revenue at the local, state, and federal level and it will continue to do so in the long term.

Someone has to pay for all this stimulus money.

• Politicians – Who are you going to vote for? Likely the person who mandates your pay increase.

Who it Hurts:

• The Consumer – As wages go up, prices must quickly follow in order for businesses to maintain a profit margin that allows for income, taxes, and debt service. The labor to grow and harvest commodities, the trucking cost to ship it, hands to package it, prepare it and serve it, and facility costs in which to house products and serve people will all go up. The McDonald’s combo that was $6 will eventually cost $10 or more.

• The Part Time/High School Employee – A starting wage was never intended to be a living wage.

The idea is to provide an opportunity for work life experience that prepares the individual for greater responsibility and greater rewards in the future.

Businesses will be less apt to hire inexperienced and part time employees if they are forced to pay equal to full time experienced workers. If the wage increase is enacted, there needs to be a different starting wage for inexperienced and part time workers.

• The Employee – currently making $15 an hour. This is the person who will suffer the most. At a $15 mandated wage or close to it, there will be significant inflation. Due to the significant minimum wage impact, businesses will find it extremely difficult to increase wages for their top performers. The result will be such that everyone makes $15 an hour which in turn unjustly penalizes your best employee.

• Retired or Fixed Income – The people who are no longer in the workforce creating income are at the mercy of inflation eating away at their retirement nest egg. They no longer participate in the wage increases available to those actively working.

Money invested is paying little to no interest and most are dependent on social security and cost of living

adjustments by the government. If the cost of living goes up 20% due to inflation, their $100,000 saved for retirement over a lifetime will only be worth $80,000.

We live in a capitalistic society, the best one in the world, I might add.

Supply and demand dictates prices and subsequently wages go up based on supply and demand. When wages dictate prices, we have a reversal of the economic process creating a distorted value of goods and services.

Simply put, if a combo at McDonald’s cost you $10 starting tomorrow, you probably would not pay it, yet this is exactly what $15 an hour will do… create a false demand for goods and services. Most companies strive to produce a 10% to 15% profit, while others such as Starbuck’s pay a $15 wage and produce a 20% profit.

People line up for a $6 cup of coffee and can’t wait to get it. Unlike small businesses, they also possess the buying power to tremendously reduce their commodity cost. If we fully go to $15 an hour, some businesses will thrive, some will struggle, and some will fail. The one thing you can count on is that prices will go up in order for businesses to survive. The consumer will foot the bill in the end.

I close with this thought. I started flipping burgers at age 16 for $2.05 an hour. It wasn’t a living wage. It was an opportunity. An opportunity to learn, to grow, and to create disposable income while I figured out what I wanted to be when I grew up.

It just so happened that I enjoyed it and thrived in an environment where doing your very best meant something and serving well had its rewards. Jim Rohn, a well-known speaker and entrepreneur said it best… “If you want to make more money, add more value to your organization”. This is how we get ahead in life, not by mandates.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Noah

Talks The Tallassee Tribune

STEVE FLOWERS Columnist

Alabama will miss Richard Shelby

I

n only 21 short months, at the close of 2022, Alabama will lose the greatest senator in our state’s history. Those of us who are political historians will acknowledge Richard Shelby as Alabama’s most pronounced political emissary in Washington.

In my 2015 book, Six Decades of Alabama Political History, I have a chapter titled “Alabama’s Three Greatest Senators,” which features Lister Hill, John Sparkman, and Richard Shelby. Lister Hill and John Sparkman were icons but, if I were writing that chapter today, Richard Shelby would be alone as the premier “Giant of Alabama.”

Hill served in the Senate for 30 years and Sparkman for 32 years. Shelby eclipsed Sparkman’s record two years ago and at the end of his term will set the bar at 36 years. It should also be noted that Senators Shelby, Hill and Sparkman served nearly a decade or more in the U.S. House of Representatives. Senator Shelby is now in his 43rd year in Washington.

Seniority is king and paramount in assessing power under the Capitol dome. However, what you do with that seniority is what makes one great.

The average voter and citizen of our beloved state does not comprehend the magnitude of the federal largesse that Richard Shelby has brought home to the Heart of Dixie. His strength, power and resolve has resulted in countless improvements to every corner of our state. It would take volumes and annals to chronicle the federal dollars that Shelby has funneled to Alabama throughout his career.

Beginning with the coastal area of Mobile and the Docks, to the Wiregrass and Fort Rucker, to Montgomery’s Maxwell and Gunter; to UAB in Birmingham, and finally Shelby’s impact on the growth and prosperity of the Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, are incomprehensible. Folks, when you combine all of the aforementioned economic engines, we are not talking about a couple million extra federal dollars but more like hundreds of millions of federal dollars.

Shelby has been the savior of these centers of economic growth and employment in our state.

The two most important, UAB and Redstone Arsenal, owe their growth and prosperity to Shelby’s ability to bring home the bacon.

He has had the most profound impact over the last few years as Chairman of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee. He very adroitly kept in conjunction the Chairmanship of the Subcommittee on Defense Appropriations. If you do not think defense dollars are important to Alabamians, simply ask the folks in the Wiregrass and Montgomery’s River Region what Ft. Rucker and Maxwell/Gunter mean to them. Also, Huntsville would be a sleepy little cotton town if it were not for the Redstone Arsenal.

While Shelby was not in the U.S. Senate when these facilities were placed in Alabama, you can bet your bottom dollar that they have flourished, prospered, and more than likely survived because of Richard Shelby.

Senator Shelby and I have been friends for over 35 years. I was a part of his inaugural 1986 triumphant election to the Senate. To know him personally is to see a man that you instantly recognize as a once-in-a-lifetime giant. He is extremely witty and personable with a keen lawyer’s mind that analyzes your words as soon as they come out of your mouth. Indeed, he was a brilliant and very successful lawyer before entering Congress. If he had not gone into politics, he could have become a billionaire as a Wall Street Lawyer.

As Shelby eloquently said in his retirement statement, there is a time for every season. He will be 87 in May of this year and 88 at the end of this term. He deserves some private years. He enjoys time with his wife and best friend of over 60 years, Annette. He will enjoy being at home in his beloved Tuscaloosa and hunting occasionally with his buddies, Joe Perkins and Judge Coogler.

Maybe he will have time to reminisce with some of us who like to share old Alabama political stories.

In closing, there will be plenty of time to observe the fray that will be developing to follow the legend of Richard Shelby, but no one will ever fill his shoes. As I traversed the state doing television interviews the day of Shelby’s announcement, I became melancholy and almost tearful for Alabama’s sake.

While driving between Montgomery and Birmingham, I had a lengthy telephone conversation with the lady who has been Shelby’s real Chief of Staff, confidant, and gatekeeper his entire career in Congress. She very aptly told me to tell the people of Alabama that whoever follows Shelby, even if brilliant, will be 20 years in waiting and learning before they will be able to wield any power. She is correct. Seniority is king in Washington.

See you next week.

Steve Flowers is Alabama’s leading political columnist. His weekly column appears in over 60 Alabama newspapers. He served 16 years in the state legislature. Steve may be reached at www. steveflowers.us.

www.TallasseeTribune.com

February 17, 2021 • Page A5

Understanding Lent, Easter and the Jewish Passover

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arlier this week, we celebrated Mardi Gras, better known as Fat Tuesday – the beginning of the season of Lent.

In 40 days, we’ll celebrate Easter the Resurrection of Jesus Christ, which changed everything, including the calendar.

Even in cultures around the world that either don’t know about Christianity or choose another religion, their calendar is still moving in the time of anno domini – in the Year of Our Lord. That is an amazing fact, that the birth of Jesus is memorialized to this day by our very calendar. People who do not even know Him are still counting their days with a Gregorian calendar dedicated to Him. Easter marks the end of Lent, the 40 days of fasting and abstinence that began with Mardi Gras (Fat Tuesday) and Ash Wednesday. Easter is a moveable feast, meaning it is not fixed in relation to the regular calendar. It always occurs during the spring, in March or April.

Easter is linked to the Jewish Passover by much of its symbolism, as well as by its position in the calendar. Passover and Easter are interchangeable terms in many European languages, so the similarities are even greater for the early Christians who translated the Bible.

Secular customs, such as the Easter Bunny and Easter egg hunts, have become part of the holiday’s modern celebrations and are often observed by Christians and non-Christians alike.

MICHAEL BIRD Columnist The New Testament teaches that the resurrection of Jesus, which Easter celebrates, is a foundation of the Christian faith. The resurrection established Jesus as the true Son of God. Easter is strongly connected to the Passover and Exodus from Egypt that is outlined in great detail in the Old Testament.

In the New Testament, however, Jesus gave the Passover meal a new meaning. He says to his disciples, “do this in remembrance of me,” as he prepared himself and his disciples for his death in the upper room during the Last Supper. He took the bread and the chalice of wine and said that it represented His body and blood.

Jesus, as the Passover lamb, was crucified at roughly the same time as the Passover lambs were being slain in the temple. To this day, on Good Friday at 3:00 p.m. is traditionally the time observed.

Every Friday during Lent, many Christians observe the Stations of the Cross. The Stations of the Cross are fourteen points on the Via Dolorosa in Jerusalem, from the Lions’ Gate to the Church of the Holy Sepulcher. This is one of the most powerful Lenten

traditions, even more so than fasting and abstinence.

Speaking of fasting and abstaining, it is also a longstanding tradition to fast (eat one meal a day or none at all) and abstain from meat on Fridays of Lent. This has led to many restaurants having fish and seafood specials on Friday nights.

Why is Easter on a moveable date?

The date for Easter is determined on a lunisolar calendar similar to the Hebrew calendar. The First Council of Nicaea — the same Council that wrote the Creed (“we believe in One God …”) — established the date of Easter as the first Sunday after the full moon (the Paschal Full Moon) following the northern hemisphere’s vernal equinox, way back in the year 325.

The equinox occurs on March 21, therefore Easter always falls on a Sunday between March 22 and April 25. There are 35 potential Easter dates!

It last fell on March 22 in 1818, and will not do so again until 2285. It fell on March 23 in 2008, but will not do so again until 2160. Easter last fell on the latest possible date, April 25, in 1943 and will next fall on that date in 2038. However, it fell on April 24, just one day before this latest possible date, in 2011. The most common date is April 19. This year, we’ll celebrate Easter on April 4, 2021.

Michael Bird is a choral director for Tallassee City Schools and cohosts “The Saturday Morning Show with Michael Bird and Scott Adcock” on WACQ-AM 580 and FM 98.5.

Feeding students in a pandemic Dear Younger Self,

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ou won’t remember much of what you have learned in college, but that’s ok. You’ll have all the information you need at your fingertips either by way of books or from a new invention called the Internet. What you will remember will be the experiences you gain throughout your career.

There will be natural disasters, staffing issues, equipment failures … the run of the mill issues you might expect. But just as you are preparing to retire, there will be a global pandemic. The challenges will be immense. It’s important to remember to surround yourself with a competent cadre of professionals who share your commitment to feeding children. And… yes, it will take a village. Call upon the experiences you have gained and the relationships you have made through previous crises and carry on.

The coronavirus detected in the year 2019 will cause schools to close suddenly. You will be tempted to see this as bonus vacation time, but it will be anything but. You will have to pivot quickly in order to continue feeding students. A cascade of questions follows shortly thereafter.

How will you feed the children with no staff? What’s the best way to get meals to students? Meal delivery?

LORIA HUNTER

Guest Columnist

Curbside pick- up? You will find it necessary to do both. Don’t despair. That cadre of professionals I mentioned earlier will show up to help. They will appear as contract employees and local school board staff who feel deeply about meeting the needs of the community amid a national health emergency.

Your next challenge will be sourcing foods and supplies. Because of the pandemic, supply chain disruptions will impact all sectors of the economy, not just school foodservice. Many of the items you will need to facilitate efficient meal service will be hard to come by.

These challenges will not be unique to your district. Schools across the country will be vying for the same items. Demand will be great, supply will be short, and prices will go up.

School will start in the fall per usual, but with many changes. In order to limit the spread of the disease, parents will have the option of keeping their children home for virtual learning. Others will opt for the hybrid model alternating

between face to face and virtual learning. You will offer hot meals for in school dining, shelf-stable meals for students to take home for virtual days, and curbside meal pick up for households that decided to school virtually. Although these options will become necessary to stem the tide of declining participation, it will be taxing on both you and your staff.

The disease will spread quickly in the school community. You will be called to fill in for staff who contract the virus and consequently will get a master class in the day-today operation of a school kitchen.

Moreover, you will learn first-hand the physical toll the job imposes on the body.

As the pandemic drags on, you will face many difficult days. Your resolve will be tested. During those times, I strongly encourage that you visit a school. You will likely see many examples of your younger self on the other side of the serving line.

It will remind you of the important service being rendered and give you just enough incentive to carry on.

You’ve got this, Your Future Self, Mrs. Loria Hunter Loria Hunter is the child nutrition program director at Tallassee City Schools.

Page A6 • February 17, 2021

www.TallasseeTribune.com

The Tallassee Tribune

CommunityCalendar

Submit calendar items: Participate in your Tribune by calling 334-567-3284, faxing them to 334-567-3284, sending your event to carmen.rodgers@tallasseetribune.com or logging on to

http://www.thewetumpkaherald.com/.

Feb. 18

Tallassee Rotary Club will meet at the 1220 Cafe at noon.

Feb. 23

Tallassee city council work session inside the chambers at city hall beginning at 5 p.m.

Tallassee city council regular meeting inside the chamber at city hall beginning at 6 p.m.

Feb. 24

Tallassee Chamber of Commerce will hold a silent auction via Facebook.

Feb. 25

Silent auction in-per-

son bids accepted at the Tallassee Chamber of Commerce office.

Feb. 25

Tallassee Chamber Banquet will be held via Facebook Live starting at 7 p.m.

March 7

Blakely’s Handprint Pottery Party hosted

by Custom Creations by Lora and Blakely Taylor.

March 13

Downtown Sidewalk Sale on S. Ann Avenue from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m. contact the Tallassee Chamber of Commerce at 334-283-

5151 for vendor information.

March 18

Tallassee High School Hall of Pride inductions at 10 a.m. in the school’s auditorium.

March 18-20

Southern Girls Outlet will be at the SLE Rodeo beginning Thursday, March 18, at 7 p.m.

March 10-21

The SLE Rodeo will open on March at the Garrett Coliseum with the 6th Annual SLE High School & Collegiate Livestock Judging Contest.

Submitted / The Tribune

Gov. Kay Ivey signs bills into law protecting businesses from frivolous COVID-19 lawsuits, protecting stimulus money from taxation and economic development.

Ivey signs 3 priority bills into law STAFF REPORT TPI Staff

Gov. Kay Ivey on Friday, Feb. 12, signed House Bill 170, sponsored by Rep. Danny Garrett (R – HD 44); House Bill 192 by Rep. Bill Poole (R – HD 63); and Senate Bill 30 by Sen. Arthur Orr (R – SD 3) into law.

During the governor’s state of the state address, she laid out these pieces of legislation as priority bills, and she assured the Legislature and the people of Alabama that when they reached her desk, she would sign them without hesitation.

“While the impact of COVID-19 has been felt across the country and around the world, we remain committed to helping Alabamians and Alabama businesses get back on their feet and our state moving forward. These three bills, without question, were necessary to address up front, and I am proud of the Alabama Legislature for taking care of the people’s business, despite the obvious challenges of this legislative session. Thanks to their work, the people of Alabama who received any type of CARES Act dollars will not pay one penny in state income taxes on that relief.

Additionally, we are ensuring that our state will continue to grow our diverse

economy, and we are protecting our existing businesses from any frivolous lawsuits due to COVID-19. Again, I commend the Alabama Legislature and am thrilled to officially sign these three bills into law,” Ivey said in a statement on Friday, Feb. 15.

HB 170 concerns income tax, exclusion for federal tax credits, advance refunds, qualified disaster relief payments, subsidies, grants, student loans, or loan forgiveness from federal CARES Act and subsequent federal COVID relief legislation, exemption from income and financial institution excise tax for amounts from the Coronavirus Relief Fund, to decouple from 26 U.S.C, 951A and 118 (b)(2), to change business interest expense limitation, and to allow Electing PassThrough Entity to be taxed at entity level, Sec. 40-27-1 amended.

HB 192 calls for economic development, job credit and investment credit for approved projects sunset date extended, incentives for attraction of new and expanding business including rural areas, incentives for high-tech companies Growing Alabama Act, income tax, tax credits for use of state’s port facilities.

Finally, SB 30 Protects certain entities from claims relating to contraction of or exposure to COVID-19.

File / The Tribune

The last time Tallassee saw a Trade Day was Oct. 2017. Now, the Tallassee Chamber of Commerce hopes to bring the once-popular event back to the downtown area.

Trade Day could return to downtown Tallassee

By CARMEN RODGERS Bureau Chief

Trade Day was an annual event that took place on King Street near Tallassee High School for decades; however, the event was canceled in 2018.

The Tallassee Chamber of Commerce hopes to bring the once-popular event back to the area in the future.

Trade Day ran for 29 years before being canceled. It was canceled because its schedule conflicted with many other events in the area, such as college football and youth sports.

It has been four years since Trade Day was last held, but the Director of

the Tallassee Chamber of Commerce, Jerry Cunningham, says the event could soon return, only in a different area of downtown Tallassee.

“Trade Day is coming back but we are waiting until we are in the final process of the TAP grant for downtown,” Cunningham said.

Mayor Johnny Hammock is hopeful that work on the TAP grant will begin this year.

“When we get to that point, Trade Day will be much bigger and it will be held in downtown,” Cunningham said.

While Trade Day celebrated its 29th anniversary in 2018, the event actually goes back

much farther, to the 1960s.

“It was brought back in the 80s,” Cunningham said.

“It was a very big event. It just needs a new direction.”

While still in the planning stage, Chamber members are looking at various options that would promote and maintain interest in Trade Day. “Do we do it every year or every other year,” Cunningham asked. “We are just trying to find a way to keep the momentum going.”

Past Trade Days have showcased local dance studios, food vendors, specialty items, handmade products, and more.

According to Cunningham, the event simply needs to be revamped.

“Based on my experience and based on information, I think it just needs some new direction, new energy,” he said.

Submitted / The Tribune

THS prepares for competitions

Members of the THS choral program are preparing for upcoming competitions. The State Choral Performance Assessment, or SCPA, is virtual this year. Show Choir competitions will be held on Saturdays in April in Auburn, Oak Mountain, and Enterprise.

Murder the (victim’s) family in your prayers,” Jenkins said in a statement. “I am glad to see citizens taking a stance and passing information on to law enforcement. It shows everyone, that the citizens are not going to let these violent criminals get away with these crimes. I want to thank all the Tuskegee police officers and detectives that worked rigorously to locate everyone involved in this tragic incident, but our job is not done yet. We are going to continue to locate all the violent offenders involved and bring them to justice. I also want to thank Sheriff Brunson and the Macon County Sheriff Office for assisting us in the

continued from Page A1 apprehension of Joshua Washington, and also being there through this investigation.

Again, these senseless acts of violence will not be tolerated in this city or county. Law enforcement in this county is always ready, willing, and able to bring those criminals to justice when they cross that line.”

This is still an ongoing investigation, and police ask anyone with information about this incident to contact the Tuskegee Police Department, Investigation Division at 334727-0200. You can also contact the Central Alabama Crime Stoppers at 334-215-STOP. All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

The Tallassee Tribune

www.TallasseeTribune.com

February 17, 2021 • Page A7

Americans care more about saving gas money since pandemic onset STAFF REPORT TPI Staff

Americans have always cared about gas prices given the nature of its volatility; it suddenly goes up, it suddenly goes down, all without an obvious explanation.

GasBuddy recently released its annual Pump Habits Study that found that nearly a third of Americans care more now about saving money on gas than before the start of the pandemic.

“The more unpredictable life is, the more people think about gas prices,” said Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy. “Nobody can disagree that the past 10 months has been as unpredictable as it could get.”

Despite the major disruptions to traffic, commutes, and household incomes that have occurred over the past year (all declining), GasBuddy’s 2021 Pump Habits survey found that many of the same money-wasting

behaviors when it comes to buying gas are still prevalent, leading consumers to overpay by as much as $300 per year.

Eighty-three percent of drivers admitted to purchasing gas, only to drive by a cheaper gas station moments later. Case in point: a recent tweet about not checking the gas price when filling up went viral, causing thousands of drivers to respond to the woman’s tweet with ways on how they’re saving every penny they can at the gas pump.

“Traffic is no longer an excuse when it comes to ‘having’ to fill up at the first station you see off the highway,” De Haan said.

“Shopping around for gas is one of the most valuable ways to save money. Gas prices commonly vary by over 10 cents but in larger cities can vary over $1 per gallon.”

Drivers can save $200 per year by checking gas prices in their area before their fill-ups.

Four out of five drivers have a station they regularly go to. While 58% of drivers say they go there regularly because they think it has the cheapest gas around, nearly 30% of them say that the reason they go to the same station is because it’s the closest one to their work or home, regardless of price.

“Going to a station because of location or convenience is a big money-waster, as drivers are missing out on the potential discounts from stations just around the corner,” said De Haan.

“Conversely, if you’re going to the closest gas station because you’re running out of gas, you’re missing out on those same savings. Our study found that more than a third of drivers have actually run out of gas.”

Another way to help bring down the price at the pump is to sign up for gas station loyalty programs. Forty-four percent of drivers do not belong to any gas station loyalty program, a similar

percentage compared to 2019 (43%) and 2018 (45%).

“There are many gas station and grocery store loyalty programs out there that give you rewards on every purchase to use at the gas pump,” said De Haan.

“If you frequent particular brands, signing up for one could save you nearly $50 a year. Many of these programs even stack with your payment method.”

How drivers pay for gas can largely affect how much they save. Credit cards continue to be the most popular payment method (46%) in line with previous years. Yet consumers continue to carry credit card debt especially given the current state of the economy In fact, recent studies have found that 55% of Americans do not regularly pay off their credit cards. Failure to make payments on a cashback credit card negates any savings they may have received due to the

interest accumulated with missed payments.

Using debit cards is the second most popular way to pay at the pump (24%), however they often get charged the credit price and have no cashback rewards associated with them. Six percent of respondents use cash at the pump.

“The price is only half the story, the way we pay is other,” said De Haan. “More and more companies are offering alternatives to a debit card that offer rewards like Pay with GasBuddy. It saw a 110% increase in usage from survey respondents from 2018 to 2021, even when gas prices were historically lower.”

Drivers can also save $50$100 per year on average by changing their payment method to a savings card option at the gas pump and making sure they pay off their credit cards in full every month.

Conservation Advisory Board to meet on March 6 STAFF REPORT TPI Staff

The Alabama Conservation Advisory Board (CAB) will hold its first scheduled meeting of 2021 on Saturday, March 6.

The meeting will take place at the RSA Activity Center, 201 Dexter Avenue, in Montgomery.

In accordance with Gov. Kay Ivey’s public health order to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, attendees are asked to wear a mask that covers nose and mouth and to please maintain 6 feet of distance between themselves and others not of their household at all times. Additionally, anyone experiencing fever or other symptoms of illness is asked not to attend.

Attendance at the meeting may be limited in accordance with venue capacity and social distancing guidelines.

Registration for those wishing to address the board will be from 8-8:30 a.m. The meeting will begin promptly at 9 a.m. Those planning to attend who have materials for board members’ review are asked to please send those electronically only, via scan or clear photo, to Betsy.

jones@dcnr.alabama.gov no later than noon on March 2.

The CAB assists in formulating policies for the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR), examines all rules and regulations, and makes recommendations for their change or amendment. This includes hunting seasons and bag limits.

The board is comprised of 10 members appointed by the Governor for alternating terms of six years. Joseph Dobbs, Jr., of Birmingham currently serves as chairman.

Additional CAB members include Greg Barksdale of Hanceville; Patrick Cagle of Montgomery; Grady Hartzog of Eufaula; Brock Jones of Boligee; Raymond Jones, Jr., of Huntsville; Jeff Martin of Pell City; Ben C. Stimpson, Jr., of Mobile; Gary Wolfe of Fairhope; and Tim Wood of Selma.

The three ex-officio CAB members are Gov. Kay Ivey, Agriculture Commissioner Rick Pate, and Alabama Cooperative Extension System Director Dr. Gary Lemme. ADCNR Commissioner Chris Blankenship serves as ex-officio secretary.

If Americans with Disabilities Act accommodations are needed, please

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We urge you to schedule your appointment today, 256-329-7826. Payment options will be available when scheduling. Please indicate Heart Month screening when you call.

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contact Betsy Jones at (334) 242-3486 or betsy.jones@dcnr.alabama.gov. Requests should be made as soon as possible, but at least five days prior to the scheduled meeting.

The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources

promotes wise stewardship, management and enjoyment of Alabama’s natural resources through four divisions: Marine Resources, State Lands, State Parks, and Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries. To learn more about ADCNR, visit www. outdooralabama.com.

Religion

Visit our sister websites: www.AlexCityOutlook.com www.TheWetumpkaHerald.com

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Casting our crowns at the feet of Jesus They cast their crowns before the throne. - Revelation 4:10

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o you play chess? I’m familiar with how the pieces move and I can play on a very elementary level. But I don’t know much at all about strategy, and I can’t think moves ahead like more experienced players are able to do. Most of us know enough about the game to realize what it means when, at the end, the player who will win on the next move announces “Checkmate.” The losing player recognizes the loss, and lays his king over on the board. Defeated, he bows in submission to the victorious opponent.

In John’s vision of the

throne in heaven recorded in Revelation 4, the living creatures before the throne of God fall down and worship, and cast their crowns before the only true king, the Lord God Almighty. No creature can stand in pride before his Creator. Even if we try to act as our own little sovereign, eventually every one must acknowledge that it’s “checkmate.” The fiercest enemy of Christ will acknowledge him as Lord at the judgment when Jesus comes again (Philippians 2:1011).

What does it mean for us as believers who already confess Jesus as Lord to “cast our crowns” before his throne?

I think it is recognizing that any honor we have received

MIKE MCELROY Columnist and any privilege we have enjoyed has been given to us by God’s grace. The fact that we exist to stand before him in heaven is all of grace.

All our achievements, all our spiritual progress and acts of righteousness come as a direct result of grace. We cast our crowns in deep reverence and humility, unwilling to claim any glory for what God has done.

Gratitude constrains us to lay our crowns of honor, position and achievement at the feet of the one who provided it all to us. This is nowhere more true than spiritual matters, where we who were dead in our trespasses and sins are now alive and redeemed by God’s grace. It is humbling to admit that we can do nothing

of any spiritual value apart from the Lord. The work we do, he works in us. When we work hard, it is the grace of God working in us. When hearts are changed and souls are saved through our efforts, God worked through us to accomplish what only God himself can do.

Have we really learned to cast our crowns at the Savior’s feet? Let’s check: Is there anything I “own” that I claim to have gotten on my own without his enabling, benevolent hand? Have I done any real lasting good, apart from doing his will? Do I still clamor for recognition or credit for what I have done in service to him? We know the “right” answers to these questions.

But in our conduct, words and speech, do we ever show that we are clinging to a crown instead of laying it before him?

The spiritually mature man or woman gives all glory to God. When a Christian boasts, he displays his immaturity and betrays that he has not

yet denied self. There is no question that we will all one day cast our crowns before the Lord on his throne. But when we as Christians speak and act with pride, we show that we’re not yet ready for that day to come. In heaven around the throne, no one will say, “Look what I did! See my mighty works!” Not one before him in glory will say, “I got here the old-fashioned way; I earned it!” We will all cast our crowns.

At the end of a chess match, the loser has no choice. He may be angry and defiant, even in forced surrender. But around the throne of God in heaven there will be no pouting in self-pity and no praising through clenched teeth. There will be only glorious praise and worship to the one we acknowledge as our true king.

May God show us his mercy and grant us grace to grow so that we may loosen our grip on any crowns we’re still clutching and joyfully cast them at his feet.

40 days of Lent: Between good and evil

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he three promises the serpent told Eve were lies.

(1) You won’t die.

Lie! There was no death before. It came as a result of the sin of our first parents.

(2) You will be like God. Lie! They were already like God. Perfect. Holy.

(3) Your eyes will be opened and you will know both good and evil.

Lie! So, what is wrong with it?

By that same time, so we would live in a world having good and bad things. Satan doesn’t say, “I want you to live in a bad, stinking, evil world,” because we would never choose that. He offers this: “live in a world with evil and good. Don’t choose only good, don’t choose only evil.”

Satan opened our eyes to evil.

God told Adam and Eve not to eat the forbidden fruit. But Eve listened to Satan, and began to

look on the fruit in a new way.

What was made by God as bad, she started to see as pleasing to her eyes, good for food.

Why do we choose evil?

It’s awful, harmful, terrible, and disgusting. But it appears to be something good. It tastes good, just like the forbidden fruit.

God opened our eyes on good.

He says not to look at evil. Don’t take the bait. Satan says to take it, take both good and evil.

None of us is totally evil or totally bad. Every one of us has a lot of good as well as a lot of evil within us. Satan wants us to have both, good and evil. When Jesus was spending 40 days in the desert, the devil offered Jesus all the power on earth, and that the kingdom of this world could all be his – if Jesus would only bow before him.

We can say how much good Jesus could do having everything

MATEUSZ RUDZIK

Columnist under His control. The world says that He missed a great opportunity to bring peace and justice to the world. Poor Jesus. The one bow didn’t mean a lot. One bow.

How often do we place Him into categories like this? I could do so much more good for others, but there’s this one small thing I want to do for myself. It’s no big deal! In the comparison of the good I can achieve . . . no, but that is a lie.

You will know good and evil.

This is a lie, and a challenge. It’s in our blood. We don’t want to lose anything from our lives.

The big question is: do I want

to acknowledge anything that is evil? Do I want to allow both good and evil to exist in my life?

Do I want to desire only good and holy things, people, deeds, and events? Or, do I want both?

There is no true happiness with both.

It comes from the serpent, the father of all lies. Our hearts are permanently restless until we rest in God. We will never find happiness, peace, joy, or fulfillment until we put everything on God and reject anything that is not from God. Here, life begins. Real living.

When you face up to the lies you’ve given into, and reject those behaviors or lifestyle choices, you aren’t losing anything. The serpent wants you to feel as if you lost the choice between good and evil. But by accepting God’s invitation to know only what is good, that is where our Christian

life starts.

It may begin with a decision in your head. And it may take months, years, or even decades for it to reach your heart. But this is the only way to go.

What do you want?

I pray for myself, and I pray for you, that God will help me to reject all evil in my life. Help me, Lord, to see where I am compromising my life with evil.

Father, give me strength, courage, and the desire to reject it always.

Cleanse my heart, mind, and soul O Lord. Amen.

Father Mateusz Rudzik is the pastor of St. Joseph’s in Tuskegee and St. Vincent’s in Tallassee.

He is an avid adventurer and outdoorsman, and loves to climb mountains and rocks; ride motorcycles and skateboards; and jump out of planes. For more information, visit www.stvincenttallassee.org.

Church Briefs Episcopal Church of the Epiphany

Please join us for Sunday services at 10:30 a.m. when the Rev. Lee Lowery will celebrate the Holy Eucharist at an outdoor service.

The service will be live streamed on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ EpiphanyTallassee/ Please wear a mask and bring a chair. In case of inclement weather, check Facebook for updates.

Carrville Baptist Church

Carrville Baptist church would like to let everyone know of our new hours and we invite you to join us every Sunday Morning in worship and praise to Our Lord. Sunday School now starts at 9 a.m. and Morning Worship at 10 a.m. You can social distance and still serve the Lord, we do have mask and sanitizer available for all who need them.

Bethlehem East Baptist Church

Bethlehem East Baptist Church will have all Sunday school classes beginning at 9:45 a.m. Sunday morning followed by regular service

at 11 a.m. in the sanctuary. We will continue with Facebook Live Sunday School at 9:30 a.m. and Worship Service at 11 a.m. Our Wednesday night services will begin this week, Oct. 7th at 6:30 p.m. meeting in person in the fellowship hall. We will also continue Facebook Live at 6:30 p.m.

East Tallassee United Methodist Church

ETUMC is holding services on Sunday at 11 a.m. and at 5 p.m. The “River’s Edge Flea Market” is open every Saturday from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The flea market is sponsored by the East Tallassee UMC and is located at the side of the old East Tallassee Hospital, across from the library. We will offer various priced booths. To reserve a space call Joan Wood at 334-312-4913 or Melanie Baker at 334-415-8314. All proceeds raised by ETUMC will be used for church-sponsored programs.

First Presbyterian Church

The First Presbyterian Church of Tallassee welcomes everyone who is looking for a church family. We

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are a member of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church (EPC).

The vision of the EPC is to the glory of God, the EPC family aspires to embody and proclaim Jesus’ love as a global movement of congregations engaged together in God’s mission through transformation, multiplication, and effective biblical leadership.

The current sermon series continues discussing the twelve tribes of Israel. Thus far we have had sermons on the first four tribes. The blessings of Jacob are poured. All the sons of Jacob were given individual prophecy of what their offspring will deal with or have in the latter days.

Reuben was excellent, yet unstable and thus wouldn’t excel. Simeon and Levi were cruel brothers who would be divided and scattered in Israel. Judah was whom the brothers would praise and Judah’s hand will be in the neck of his enemies.

The scepter and lawgiver will not depart from Judah or go from between his feet. This is because through Judah the Lord Jesus Christ came; thus the scepter will not depart from Judah, neither will a lawgiver

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THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK: “One small crack doesn’t mean you are broken, it means you were put to the test and did not fall apart” Linda Poindexter.

Elam Baptist Church

In 2021 the pandemic continues as we continue to love and serve the Lord at Elam Baptist Church, 4686 Notasulga Road, Hwy 14, and Tallassee, AL 36078 334-2832800. The 10 a.m. Morning Worship Service continues each Sunday in the Sanctuary with Pastor Joseph Fain with special music. Social distancing and safety guidelines are observed. Face mask are available.

Join us. Attend expecting a blessing and you will receive. Live Streaming services on FB (Facebook) “Elam Baptist Church Media Ministry” are available with the Pastor as follows: Sunday Morning 10 a.m. weekly (Sanctuary or FB); Daily Devotion Monday thru Friday 9 a.m. daily; Wednesday Prayer and Bible Study 6:15 p.m. weekly; Story Time with

Phone

SUNDAYS East Sunday School.......................................9:15 Worship Service...................................10:25 Worship...................................5:00 Tallassee Evening Youth & Children’s Bible Study...........5:00 Baptist WEDNESDAYS Bible Study..............................................6:00 & Children’s Bible Study............6:00 Church Youth Children in Action.................................6:00

AM AM PM PM PM PM PM

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Submit your church news to: editor@tallasseetribune.com

The deadline is FRIDAY at noon

Mrs. Sherry each Thursday 2 p.m.

Children will enjoy this. Join us for all services in church and online as we continue to seek the Lord, reach the lost and minister to believers during these uncertain times. You are invited and welcome. Pray daily for blessings from above. God is love. “These three, Faith, Hope and Love remain but the greatest of these is LOVE.” 1 Corinthians 13:13

First United Methodist Church

Due to the high number of COVID cases in our community, FUMC Tallassee has suspended all in-person gatherings and events through the end of January. We invite you to join with us in worship online Sunday mornings at 10 a.m. via our website: fumctallassee.com. Visit our website for the latest information about our services and ministries, and to watch Pastor Clint’s Daily Devotionals at 8 am each weekday morning. You can check out and “Like” our Facebook page for current updates and information: facebook.com/fumctallassee.

Our church office remains open M-Th, 8 a.m. until 3 p.m. 334-2832195.

If you would like to be a sponsor of the Devotional Thoughts each week, please give us a call, 334-567-7811.

––––––

The Tallassee Tribune

Sports

Phone: 334-283-6568 Fax: 334-283-6569 www.TallasseeTribune.com

The www.TallasseeTribune.com February 17, 2021 • Page B1

Reeltown girls forced to forfeit sub-region game

By DARIUS GOODMAN Sports Editor

The Reeltown girls basketball team’s season has come to an early end after being forced to forfeit their sub-regional game against Montgomery Academy due to COVID-19.

The Rebels had already had a difficult season, missing a month due to quarantines already. Still, they managed to break into the 32-team subregional, but the new COVID19 tracing was the final nail in

Tribune

the coffin.

“Unfortunately, due to COVID tracing, we will not be able to compete tonight,” coach Will Solomon said via text.

“Montgomery Academy wins by forfeit and moves on to the next round. I am very proud of what our team accomplished this year and how well they progressed from game one.”

Reeltown made it to their third-straight area championship game last week as two-time defending area champions but Will Solomon coaches the Rebels during a game earlier this season. lost to Beulah.

File / The Tribune

Icy weather freezes playoff schedule STAFF REPORT TPI Staff

A weather surge slated to bring black ice and sleet as well as snow in some areas has forced many teams to postpone their sub-regional games. Girls games were slated to begin Monday evening but have been moved to Tuesday.

Wetumpka girls basketball, per the AHSAA bracket, is now slated to host Area 6 runner-up Helena Wednesday, Feb. 17 at 4:30 p.m. The boys game has also been affected as the date changes to Feb. 17 at 7:30 p.m.

Stanhope Elmore girls moved their game to Monday afternoon; the squad fell to Pelham 55-45.

Elmore County girls basketball team will be on the road against Central-Tuscaloosa on Feb. 17 at 6:30 p.m.

The Panthers’ boys basketball team is slated to play Feb. 18 at 6:30 p.m. against Sipsey Valley. The Tallassee Tigers basketball program will also play on a new date. Tallassee’s home game against Talladega will be on Feb. 17 at 6:30 p.m.

File photos / The Tribune

Area wrestlers, including eight from Tallassee and 13 from Wetumpka, will compete in the state championships in Huntsville Feb. 18-20. Inset: Seniors Mason Bell and Ethan Stevenson are among Tallassee’s representation.

Area wrestlers to compete in state championships

JOE ADGIE For Tallapoosa Publishers Inc.

A number of wrestlers from Elmore County schools will be traveling to Huntsville next weekend to compete in the 5A-6A state wrestling championships.

The championships will be held Feb. 18-20 at the Von Braun Center in Huntsville.

Due to changes necessitated by the COVID-19 pandemic, sectional tournaments have been cancelled across all classes, and a 32-man tournament has been set up using the TrackWrestling web site.

From Holtville High, three wrestlers have made it to the state tournament.

Garrison Beatty, at 106 pounds, went 16-13 on the year. Gage Russom, at 113 pounds, was 17-15, and Brady Goodwin, at 152 pounds, went 13-10.

Four students from Elmore County

are also in the state tournament. Ramon Lozada, at 106 pounds, went 18-1.

Stone Svencer, at 126 pounds, went 13-2. J.W. Clement, at 182 pounds, had a 9-5 record on the season, while Matt Brown, at 220 pounds, was undefeated at 18-0.

Eight wrestlers from Tallassee are

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going to the Huntsville tournament as well.

Rutland Phillips, at 106 pounds, had a 14-2 record on the year. Land Bell, at 120 pounds, went 13-1. John Burnham, at 138 pounds, went 6-1. Christian McCary, at 145 pounds, went 6-4. Jake Debardelaben, at 160 pounds, had a 11-2 record. Mason Bell, at 170 pounds, was undefeated at 6-0. Ethan Stevenson, at 182 pounds, had a 14-1 record, and Donald Ledbetter, at 195 pounds, had a 15-2 record.

A total of nine wrestlers from Stanhope Elmore, meanwhile, are expected to travel to Huntsville.

Jackson Wade, at 120 pounds, has a 17-11 record. Jared Daniel, at 126 pounds, is 17-9 on the year. Jeremy Lawrence, at 132 pounds, went 22-4 on the year. Ethan McCord, at 138 pounds, has a perfect record of 11 wins and zero See WRESTLE • Page B2

3 Rebels sign to continue academic, football careers

By DARIUS GOODMAN Sports Editor

Reeltown High added three more athletes on their list to continue their academic and athletic careers Friday afternoon.

LJ Hill and Tyvon Waver both signed to play at Birmingham Prep while Logan Lee chose to continue his playing career at Huntingdon College.

Hill played football and basketball and signed to continue playing football while Waver, who also plays football and basketball, signed to play football.

Lee is a multi-sport athlete and also signed to continue his football career.

“It’s a big deal for them it’s not so much about me,” Athletic Director and head football coach Matt Johnson said. “These young men have another opportunity to continue their career. We had a female athlete sign a scholarship in the first semester and we’re not done.

I feel like we’ll have one more athlete here in a couple of weeks that will have an opportunity to sign. To have multiple athletes sign and sign letter of intent to continue their career in athletes but also use that opportunity to get their education. Coming from a small school to have three or four athletes do that, it’s really special.”

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www.TallasseeTribune.com

The Tallassee Tribune

Wetumpka girls best Stanhope for area championship

By DARIUS GOODMAN Sports Editor

Jake Arthur / The Tribune

Wetumpka and Benjamin Russell didn’t disappoint Saturday after multiple exciting clashes this season. Even after four quarters, more time was needed for the Indians to finally claim the area title 72-68.

Wetumpka outlasts BRHS to claim area title

By DARIUS GOODMAN Sports Editor

The area championships usually equate to the best basketball seen all season. That much was true Saturday night in Wetumpka.

Raucous crowds, rattling stands, last second shots and an allout will to win unfolded before fans Saturday night. Even so, it was the Indians leaving with the 72-68 win over Benjamin Russell. But there was a lot that unfolded in the five quarters of play.

The game appeared to be over in the fourth quarter but the Wildcats were just able to put up a put back shot to continue the game for another four minutes. That came just off the misses from Quez Thompson at the stripe that left them in a desperate state. But that was just the ending.

The opening of the game found the Wildcats behind early and Wetumpka capitalized putting points on the board.

The first points of the

game found Wetumpka on the floor knocking down shots that the Wildcats couldn’t. It took a pair of free throw attempts to get the Wildcats on the board but it was LaBronski McKinney and Malcolm Simmons that started the game off offensively.

Those free throws were enough for the Wildcats to wake up while Wetumpka was powered mostly by Micheal Bass’ six points.

Fouls were the issue for both sides as each team posted seven on the board. Although it was a consistent issue for the Wildcats as their defense relied on heavy pressure while the Indians wanted to stymie any momentum as quickly as possible.

As the Wildcats kept drawing fouls from the Indians, the deficit shrunk and Corey Millner drew the 1-and-1 and cashed in to give Benjamin Russell the 9-8 lead into the second quarter.

Fouls on the Indians didn’t truly affect the program as it could have. Wetumpka sent the Wildcats to the

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line enough times but of the 10 shots at the stripe, Benjamin Russell managed to only score on two of them. The Indians managed to post 18 points in the second quarter with 10 of them off the hand of LaCorey Marshall. It was enough for the Indians to grab an 11-point lead but the Wildcats weren’t out of it either.

A highlight of the second quarter was Thompson draining a buzzer beating three from beyond half court but the Indians held a 26-21 lead.

Impressively enough, the Indians were playing through 13 team fouls in the first half.

Momentum carried over to the second half briefly as Benjamin Russell was able to give their fans something to cheer about. Qua Smith, Thompson and Ty Williams knocked down three-pointers to give Wetumpka a run for the lead but it didn’t come up as cleanly as the Wildcats would have wanted.

Wetumpka fended off the attack when Benjamin Russell tied the game at 30-30. When the Indians turned to a fullcourt press, the Wildcats struggled to limit the turnovers but the fourth quarter loomed.

A 43-37 score showed

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Wetumpka on thin ice but the Wildcats were just a tad out of position to make anything significant happen.

Even so, the Wildcats were 3-for-8 at the line during the final quarter of regulation, it was something that could have been the determining factor of the win Saturday but the program had to wait on Smith to cash in on a put backer after Thompson missed his free throws to tie the game up and send it into overtime.

Fouls reared their head in overtime. Wetumpka had a better position on the board and the Wildcats lost Millner early in the going. The difference came down to free throws with time slowly winding down despite exhibiting an ability to make the difference up.

Even a late threepointer to try and send them to the lead from Williams wasn’t fated to land.

Wetumpka saw the time expire and earn their title while the Wildcats took the runner-up placement.

Benjamin Russell will travel on Tuesday for the first round of the state tournament while the Indians will benefit from being at home.

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The Wetumpka Indians girls’ team has won the Area 5 6A championship for girls’ basketball, defeating the Stanhope Elmore Mustangs 49-40.

The Indians got off to a fast start in the championship game, taking a quick lead early on and never really looking back, although the Mustangs showed signs of life during the second quarter, taking control of the game during the latter half of the quarter.

However, Wetumpka turned it up a notch in the second half, and never looked back. The Indians were led in scoring by Cederia Dennis, who scored 16 points in the winning effort, and Morgan Causey, who scored 13.

Head coach Jermel Bell was very proud of his players for their performance on Friday night.

“Anytime you play your crosstown rival four times in one season, it’s a lot to ask from your players,” Bell said. “To do what we did tonight, couldn’t be any more proud of the girls and what they accomplished tonight.”

Bell said the team was missing a key player due to quarantine from a possible COVID exposure, and asked the team to step up in her absence.

“Cederia Dennis stepped up tonight,” Bell said. “I can’t be more proud of the girls than the performance they displayed tonight.”

Bell said he is confident in the Wetumpka team in its chances moving forward.

“What’s crazy about it, is we can go as far as we want to go,” Bell said. “I tell the girls all the time, basketball is one of those things where on any given night, any team can win. Especially now, with the COVID situation, you can have your best players now, and tomorrow, they’ll be gone. But with as much work as we’ve put in the last few seasons, there’s no limit to what we can reach this year.”

Kelvin Stokes, head coach of the Stanhope Elmore Mustangs, said his team didn’t get off to a good start, and may have panicked when Wetumpka got off to a fast start.

“We played hard. We came out focused, but at the same time, when they went up 6-0, it was only a two-possession game, but we panicked a little bit. We were in the wrong set at the beginning, so I called time-out. We got back focused, but offensively, it was panicking and score rather than run our set and get back into what we like because they had pressure on us high.”

The slow start prevented the Mustangs from getting into a rhythm in the game and from getting properly focused, Stokes said.

Stokes said the effort for the Mustangs was there, but the execution wasn’t, particularly in the offense.

“We’ve got to shake this off and keep moving.

We’re still in the tournament. We’ve got to keep going, and you never know.”

Stokes, like Bell, was optimistic about his team’s chances moving forward and felt if the team could perform, they could make a run.

“As far as our offense and defense will take us,” Stokes said of Stanhope Elmore’s chances.

“Everybody is going to be playing their hardest, so we’ve got to play a disciplined game, got to play smart, together, and if we do that, we’ll give ourselves a chance.”

Wrestle defeats. Jake Taunton, at 145 pounds, is 17-9.

Connor Russo, at 160 pounds, has 25 wins and one loss. Gabe Taunton, at 170 pounds, has a 23-4 record.

Trent Bradford, at 182 pounds, is 14-13. Caleb Foster, at 285 pounds, is 15-1.

Wetumpka, meanwhile, will be represented by 13 wrestlers in Huntsville.

Roman McWilliams, at 106 pounds, went 17-13 on the year.

Chad Strickland, at 113 pounds, went 24-6.

Noah Smith, at 120 pounds, has a 29-3 record. Jay Bowden,

continued from Page B1 at 126 pounds, has a 19-9 record. Mason Dickey, at 132 pounds, is 5-1. Kyler Adams, at 138 pounds, has a perfect record of 31 wins and zero defeats.

Xander McWilliams, at 145 pounds, has 14 wins and one loss.

Christian Preston, at 152 pounds, is 26-8.

Kaleb Robinson, at 160 pounds, is 14-17. Mason Blackwell, at 182 pounds, has 11 victories and no defeats. Devin Palmer, at 195 pounds, has 27 wins and four defeats. Abe Preston, at 220 pounds, is 25-2, and Nathan Waters, at 285 pounds, is 20-8.

The Tallassee Tribune

www.TallasseeTribune.com

February 17, 2021 • Page B3

Exploring Our Moon The Moon is a celestial body, or satellite, that orbits around planet Earth. It is a hardened, rocky surface that is characterized by a grayish-green landscape with many valleys and craters. For billions of years, while the Solar System was still young, the Moon was bombarded by meteors crashing into it, forming craters that are visible from Earth. Molten lava seeped up from beneath the surface forming dark areas called maria. They were named this because maria means “seas” in Latin. Ancient astronomers believed that they were bodies of water. While there are no large bodies of water on the Moon, NASA discovered in October 2020 that there is water present on the sunlit surface of the Moon. Even though it is not a lot of water (There is more water in the Saharan Desert.), the discovery will help scientists better understand the Moon. There is no weather on the Moon, and the gravity is one-sixth of that on Earth which means a person weighing 100 pounds on Earth would only weigh 16.5 pounds on the Moon. The Moon does not produce its own light. It reflects light from the Sun allowing us to see it from Earth. The time the Moon takes to turn on its axis and the time it takes to orbit the Earth is just over 27 days. This causes us to only see one side, the near side, of the Moon as it goes through its monthly phase. The part we cannot see is called the far-side. The average temperature for the far-side of the Moon facing the Sun is 225 degrees, while it is -243 degrees for the side experimenting night! The first men to walk on the Moon were Apollo 11 astronauts Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin on July 20, 1969. Since then, 10 other astronauts have visited the lunar surface. NASA is currently working on the Artemis Program which is scheduled to send people once again to the Moon in 2024. On this mission, the first woman will walk on the Moon.

Hidden Words: Artemis, Celestial, Craters, Crescent, Earth, Far Side, Full, Gravity, Maria, Meteor, Moon, Near Side, New, Orbit, Quarter, Satellite, SOFIA, Soil, Solar System, Stages

Moon Word Find

Tallassee Tribune Meet SOFIA Kidz Page

Find 10 Differences

The airplane above is named SOFIA which stands for Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy. Scientists aboard SOFIA were able to detect water on the Moon’s surface using infrared technology. SOFIA is maintaned by NASA and the German Space Program, DLR.

Color The Moon Landing

Color the Moon rover below. Then color what you think Earth and the stars would look like from the Moon’s surface.

NASA’s Artemis Project aims to put the first woman and next man on the Moon in 2024.

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PUZZLES & HOROSCOPE ARIES (March 21-April 19) Money can come from another source.

There is something unpredictable about old nancial patterns. Your values and priorities regarding nances are shifting. Learn by listening carefully to conversations.

Tonight: The keyword now is “effort.” You must keep trying. Rewards will manifest.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20) Today makes you the center of attention.

Others seek your counsel and guidance.

You’ll be very aware of companions’ limitations. Allow for the differences that generation and background make in their capabilities. Tonight: Faith is a factor in the quest for the best quality of life.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20) You’ll cherish your privacy today. Revel in solitude and begin a dream journal.

Answers brought by dreams and self-reection are preferable to the guidance offered by others. This brings a new sense of identity. Tonight: You are embarking on an odyssey of personal discovery.

CANCER (June 21-July 22) Today shows some intensifying of involvement with groups and organizations.

Ambitious people become worthwhile role models. Your social and romantic prospects will blossom. It’s a perfect time to purchase new nery or pursue creative work. Tonight: Release all you’ve outgrown.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) Making contacts with helpful and powerful individuals, displaying your talents and abilities, and striving to climb a bit higher on the ladder of success will absorb you.

Consider adding some feng shui cures to your workspace. Tonight: Take the night off.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) Today shows wider mental horizons developing. You grow bored with old concepts and long to learn something new. You develop deeper insight into your own nature. The pursuit of a new study is favored. Tonight: A new vision concerning the direction of your life.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) The veil to the other world grows thinner, and a meaningful message from a spirit guide is due. You’ll experience a sense of deeper peace. Dreams and fantasy abound. Seek a wholesome creative outlet and don’t jump to conclusions. Tonight: Keep stress under control.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) Cooperation is a must. Others will have plans and projects that involve you. A legal matter might need your attention. You can make a decision about a partnership. The prospect of a more settled and committed situation can have appeal. Tonight: Dinner with a loved one.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) Take time to understand precisely what is going on with your body. If appropriate, give a gentle alternative treatment enough time to work. You’re inclined to leap into aggressive procedures. This might not be wise at present. Tonight: You feel a wonderful healing inuence.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) Love and romance are highlighted favorably today. Attend social functions online and develop promising relationships by taking the initiative. Opportunities for love will abound. Get involved in sports and exercise functions. Tonight: Delightful invitations and at least one admirer.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) Living arrangements are about to improve.

Real estate transactions can be more protable than you think. For those with bittersweet memories of early home and family life, it’s time to process them for release. Tonight: A new sense of peace and acceptance develops.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20) Today brings a solution to transportation dilemmas. Select projects that can be completed sooner rather than later. A bond with a neighbor or sibling strengthens.

Your happy thoughts act as a magnet to draw support from others. Tonight: Answer emails and calls promptly

classifieds@alexcityoutlook.com public.notices@alexcityoutlook.com classifieds@thewetumpkaherald.com public.notices@thewetumpkaherald.com

The Eclectic Observer

The Tallassee Tribune

Employment

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NOW-HIRING!!!

The Wetumpka Herald

Job Opportunities

Job Opportunities

Bill Nichols State Veterans Home •RN/LPN Charge Nurse Full-Time Sign-On Bonus Available!!

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The Learning Tree, Inc. is Accepting Applications for 2nd, 3rd and Weekend shifts for Direct Care Applications can be picked up at: 101 S. Dubois Street Tallassee, AL 36078 Or contact Sarah Sessions (334)252-0025 Ext. 101 Email: sarah.sessions@ learning-tree.org

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Wetumpka Health & Rehab NOW HIRING FOR LPN $10K (evening) $7500 (day) SIGN ON BONUS •Full-Time %HQH¿WV •PTO &RPSHWLWLYH :DJHV 3OHDVH VXEPLW UHVXPH WR WDPP\ PFJHH#QKVPJW FRP (2( Wetumpka Health & Rehab NOW HIRING FOR CNA/NA $1,000 SIGN ON BONUS •Full-Time %HQH¿WV •PTO &RPSHWLWLYH :DJHV 3OHDVH VXEPLW UHVXPH WR WDPP\ PFJHH#QKVPJW FRP (2( Part Time Kennel Tech wanted for weekends, holidays, hours during the week, ability to care for animals including dogs and birds, lift 50 lbs.

Email contact info to JHQH#¿YHVWDUSUHVHUYH FRP We are an EOE. NOW HIRING Local, established Tree Company, looking for Experienced ClimbersPersonal gear/equipment a big plus. $W OHDVW <56 YHULÀDEOH H[S UHT

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The Tallassee Tribune

Job Opportunities

Lost & Found $200 REWARD - MISSING MALE HUSKY. WHITE & BROWN, BLUE EYES, 6 YRS OLD, 256-496-6507 JEB & LORI JENNINGS

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is hiring CDL-A Drivers in your area Great Pay! ([FHOOHQW %HQH¿WV Visit our website www.whiteoaktrans.com for more information EOE-M/F/D/V

On Site Boat Care

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Apply in person: 1996 Airport Blvd Alexander City

Transportation Boats & Watercraft

Southern Apparel Inc Now Hiring for Apparel Manufacturing Please send resumes to adurbin@southernapinc.com Call 334-567-5044

Auctions & Sales Garage Sales Moving/Estate Sale 17481 HWY 49 SOUTH Notasulga, next to the Elementary School, Feb. 19th & 20th Please call to come see New large green egg, generator, tools, furniture, misc., 334-401-1039

State Classified AlaScans AUCTIONS AUCTION LAND - Saturday, February 27, 11:00 a.m.- 195 acres to be offered in 7 parcels and as Entirety, 5 parcels sell "ABSOLUTE," Lamar County, Kennedy, Alabama. Call for more information: 205-822-4229.

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17’ CLASSIC ANTIQUE BOAT 1959 Thompson Sea Chaser 1992 Honda 4stroke 16 gal alum tank Seat cushions *RRG VKDSH IHZ ÀDZV Panama City FL $5400 850-276-6369

1999 Maxum 2100SR bowrider, 5.7 liter V-8, mercruiser, with top, cover and trailer.

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Collector Cars

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WANTED TO BUY FREON WANTED: We pay $$$ for cylinders and cans. R12 R500 R11 R113 R114.

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Notices

February 17, 2021 • Page B5

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Public Notices Public Notices PUBLIC NOTICE INVITATION FOR BID Sealed Bids for the construction of Project No. 323-E, Section 1: Natural Gas Facilities Replacement Crossing AL. S.R. 14 at AL. S.R. 49 Intersection, will be received by the City of Dadeville Gas Board, Owner, at the Dadeville Gas Department shop located at 826 E. Columbus Street, Dadeville, Alabama, until 2 P.M (local time) Thursday, February 25, 2021, at which time and place the bids will be publicly opened and read aloud.

The scope of work shall include the installation of the following approximate items of work and quantities of these items: SECTION 1: 4” Steel Pipe (Open Trench), 20 L.F.; 4” Steel Pipe by Horizontal Directional Drill (HDD), 314 L.F.; 4” Steel Hot-Tap Connection, 2 Each, 4” Steel Valves, 1 Each; Single H.P. Regulator Set, 1 Each; ½” PE Gas Service Line, 80 L.F.; Grout Fill of Existing 4” Steel Gas Line, 356 L.F. and other miscellaneous necessary items.

3ODQV DQG 6SHFL¿FDWLRQV PD\ be obtained in electronic form from Gas Meter Engineers, Inc., 689 Highway 36, Chelsea, AL 35043 (telephone 205-6786210).

The successful Bidder will be required to furnish a Performance Bond and a Labor Bond, each in the amount of 100 percent of the Contract. These bonds shall be executed by a licensed Surety Company in the state in which this work is being performed.

Each bid shall be accompanied by a Bid Bond executed by a Surety Company, licensed in the state the work is to be perIRUPHG LQ WKH DPRXQW RI ¿YH (5) percent of the total bid. A &HUWL¿HG &KHFN SD\DEOH WR WKH 2ZQHU LQ WKH DPRXQW RI ¿YH

Public Notices

Public Notices

percent of the total Bid is also acceptable.

The Owner reserves the right to reject any or all bids and to waive any or all informalities and technicalities therein. No Bidder will be allowed to withdraw his Bid, without Owner’s consent, for a period of sixty (60) days after the date of actual bid opening.

Each Bidder shall be a licensed Contractor in accordance with the regulations of the State of Alabama and must include the license number, expiration date DQG FODVVL¿FDWLRQ RQ WKH RXWVLGH of the sealed bid envelope.

y g g Erosion Control, LLC, Contractor, has completed the Contract for Re-bidding Site Improvements at Tallassee High School, 18-140A at Tallassee City School System 308 King St., Tallassee, AL 36078 for the State of Alabama and the City of Tallassee, Tallassee City School System, Owner(s), DQG KDYH PDGH UHTXHVW IRU ¿QDO settlement of said Contract. All persons having any claim for labor, materials, or otherwise in connection with this project should immediately notify McKee & Associates, 631 S. Hull St., Montgomery, AL 36804

For the Owner By: Don G. Cochran, Jr., Engineer

Evergreen Erosion Control, LLC 3100 Wyndham Industrial Dr. Opelika, AL 36804

Tallassee Tribune: Feb. 3, 10 and 17, 2021 BIDS

Tallassee Tribune: Jan. 27, Feb. 3, 10 and 17, 2021 COMPLETION

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF KENNETH E. PETERS, DECEASED CASE NO: 2021-022 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE STATE OF ALABAMA COUNTY OF ELMORE CASE NO: 2021-015 IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF BRENDA P. PRICE, DECEASED

Letters of Administration over the Estate of KENNETH E. PETERS, deceased, having been granted to MARY ELLEN PETERS on the 12 day of February, 2021 by John Thornton, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons and parties having claims against said estate are required, within the time allowed by law, to present the same to the Court or the same will be barred.

MARY ELLEN PETERS, ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF KENNETH E. PETERS, DECEASED Name and Address of Attorney for Administrator: MICHAEL S. HARPER ATTORNEY AT LAW 213 BARNETT BLVD P O BOX 780608 TALLASSEE, ALABAMA 36078 334-283-6855 Tallassee Tribune: Feb. 17, 24 and Mar. 3, 2021 EST/PETERS, K.

Letters Testamentary in the Estate of BRENDA P. PRICE, deceased, having been granted to JASON DEAN PRICE on the 27th day of January, 2021,

by John Thornton, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons and parties having claims against said estate are required, within the time allowed by law, to present the same to the Court or the same will be barred.

JASON DEAN PRICE, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF BRENDA P. PRICE, DECEASED Attorney or Record for such Personal Representative: LEE M. RUSSELL, JR., CAPELL & HOWARD, P.C., 150 SOUTH PERRY ST, MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA 36104, PO BOX 2069, MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA 36102, 334-241-8000 Tallassee Tribune: Feb. 3, 10 and 17, 2021 EST/PRICE, B. Put your ad here call 256.414.4250

PUBLIC NOTICE ADVERTISEMENT FOR COMPLETION LEGAL NOTICE In accordance with Chapter 1, Title 39, Code of Alabama, 1975, as amended, notice is hereby given that Evergreen

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Eclectic Observer The

WEDNESDAY • FEBRUARY 17, 2021

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

Vol. 31, No. 7

ECHS band members succeed at All-State

By BRIANA WILSON Wetumpka Bureau Chief

Multiple students in Elmore County High School’s Maroon Machine marching band received top honors during the Alabama Bandmasters Association’s All-State competition.

The All-State competition invites student musicians from throughout the state to compete to be a member of the All-State band. Students have to demonstrate how well they know a certain number of scales and their ability to sight-read sheets of music.

Auditions are typically done in-person, but this year due to COVID-19, students sent in audition videos, said Kristy Fletcher, a member of the ECHS band booster executive board.

“It’s a big honor for the students,” she said. “These students represent the best of the best for the state of Alabama. We’re just really proud of our group.”

There’s usually a concert featuring the All-State band, but this year’s concert is not guaranteed, according to the Alabama Bandmasters Association’s website.

“Our plan at this moment is to have the All-State event as a live event,” ABA president Terry Ownby states on the organization’s website.

“If this can’t happen, we will move it to a virtual platform for the students to have an All-State experience for 2021. The board is gathering information for both the in-person event and the virtual event and will make the determination about the event by March 1.”

The Elmore County Maroon Machine would like to congratulate the following students on their achievements at All-State this year: Blake Jones – All-State, White Band Alyssa Gill – All-District Darcie Dark – All-District, 1st alternate All-State Maggie Thames – All-State, Blue Band Geoffrey Dark – All-State, Red Band Dustin Powell – All-State, White Band Lauryn Tillis – All-District, 1st alternate All-State Logan Geer – All-State, White Band Emma Fletcher – All-District Jackson Youngblood – All-State (middle school) Chase Blackburn – All-District

Top: Multiple students in the ECHS Maroon Machine marching band were named to the All-State band.

File / The Observer

Town set to host community yard sale, vendor market

By BRIANA WILSON Wetumpka Bureau Chief

The town of Eclectic is gearing up to host its third

Community Yard Sale and Vendor Market.

Vendor applications are now being accepted for the event, which set for Saturday,

April 10, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Participants can rent a vendor booth in the parking lot next to Eclectic Town Hall or set up a yard sale at their

home. There’s a $10 vendor fee for a 10-by-12 space and an additional $5 if electricity is needed.

Those who plan to

participate from their home, call town events coordinator Carmen Winslett to notify her of the address so it can be added to a map that will

be provided to shoppers so everyone will know where to shop.

Winslett can be reached at (334)991-1070.