Tallassee Tribune Feb. 7 2024

New rec center among projects in planning stages

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

Lodging taxes from across Elmore County could bring about $10 million in projects to Tallassee.

Millbrook is getting 17 Springs thanks in part to investment from city and Elmore County funds. The majority of lodging tax is collected in western Elmore County along the Interstate 65 corridor. But some of that funding is coming east to fund quality of life projects in Tallassee.

Surveys for quality of life projects have provided information for city and county leaders to help bring new facilities for recreation and education.

“Nothing has been finalized yet,” Tallassee Mayor Sarah Hill said. “We are putting together a whole recreation plan for about 20 to 30 years.”

The plan will have multiple phases. The first part includes a new artificial turf field for J.E. “Hot” O’Brien Stadium and new recreation

Wetumpka man pleads guilty to killing black bear

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

A man who was arrested in September for shooting a black bear had his day in court.

Michael Cole Watkins, 33, of Wetumpka pleaded guilty to two of three charges against him stemming from the incident.

According to court records, Watkins entered guilty pleas to hunting a black bear and hunting after dark before Elmore County District Court Judge Glenn Goggans. The charge of hunting during a closed season was dismissed.

Goggans suspended a six-month jail sentence for 24 months of probation and a $4,000 fine. Watkins also loses his hunting and fishing privileges for three years.

Law enforcement officers with the Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources were agreeable to the

plea deal, according to court documents.

ADCNR conservation

education coordinator

Marriane Gauldin said in September she believes the bear shot in the Wallsboro community is the same bear videoed and posted to social media the day before.

“It was killed very close to where the video was taken,” Gauldin said.

She said it was a male bear and at least 3 years old. Gauldin said black bears are considered a game animal in the State of Alabama, but that doesn’t mean they can be hunted.

“Due to low population there is no open season on black bears,” she said.

According to Gauldin, there has never been a reported incident of an aggressive bear initiating contact with a human in the state.

Harming or killing a black bear is a Class A misdemeanor in the State of Alabama and carries a punishment of up to one year in jail if convicted.

“Due to low population there is no open season on black bears”

center. A new rec center will likely be located on the site of the current city shop, where the city owns 17 acres. It would include walking trails potentially down to the lakefront where the city already has a boardwalk. Possible amenities in a new community/recreation center could include multiple basketball courts, pickleball courts, meeting rooms and workout areas. Hill said the plan is to use the

JACKSON, REELTOWN COMMUNITY RALLY FOR ONE ANOTHER

By LIZI ARBOGAST GWIN Mangaing Editor

Melody Jackson has touched all of us in one way or another.

As we grapple with the death of Melody, who took her last breath Monday night, it’s hard to fully quantify what she meant to Reeltown and the surrounding community.

One of her final wishes was a selfless one as she donated her Make-A-Wish Foundation money to the Reeltown band. Jackson was diagnosed with terminal cancer in August 2023. In January, she donated $30,000 through the Make-A-Wish Foundation to Reeltown High School’s marching band for them to receive new uniforms.

Before being diagnosed with adrenocortical carcinoma, Jackson was in the band and played the alto saxophone. She knew new band uniforms were something the band needed.

Her aunt Jennifer Spain said Jackson is a naturally giving person and through it all has been thinking of See RALLY, Page A6

ABIGAIL MURPHY TPI

Reeltown High School student Melody Jackson died Monday, Feb. 5 after a battle with terminal cancer.

Vehicle Title Problem? We have a Solution! Unclaimed/Abandoned Vehicles, Mobile Homes & Surety Bonds JSE:Alabama's Vehicle Title Recovery Service ! We can help with most Titled Vehicles in Alabama, including Cars, Trucks, Motorcycles, RV’s & Trailers. Stop in, by phone or online! Free Phone Consultation Call 1-205-267-5735 www.J SEAL .com

Obituaries

JIMMY RAY HART

Jimmy Ray Hart, 72, of Kent, Alabama, passed away peacefully in his home Tuesday, January 30, 2024. He was born June 30, 1951 in Tallapoosa County to Ralph Douglas Hart and Mary Alice Hart. He had many accomplishments in his life that he was proud of, including Hart’s Mobile Homes and Hart’s General Store. The things he was most proud of was his family and his barn. He is preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Mary Hart. He is survived by his adoring wife, Judy Hart; his sisters, Dolores Rogers and Becky Carlisle (Cordell); brothers, Bob Hart and Ray Hart (Joe); his children, George Hart (Jeanna), Jason Hart (Wanda), Dina Hollingsworth and Kristi Bush (Jamie). He was loved by many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Rob and Jessica Penn (Kylee, Kason, Jayce, Boston), Scott and Ashley Bridgman (Kaydin, Isabelle, Granger, Layla), Crystal and Darryl Saucier (Carson), Morgan and Galen McIlwain (Ellie), Stephanie Thornton (Trever), Alex and Shelby Stanley (Liam, Gray), Cody and Brianna Hollingsworth (Lucas), Jordan and Isaiah Glidewell (Westin), Ed and Charmain Hart (Ryder), Douglas Hart (Ruby), Mallorie and Makalie Hart, Emma Bridgman, Baleigh Hart, Trace Bush, Sarah and Samuel Chambliss, Hannah and Lee Hussey; brothers-in-law,

Police Reports

TALLASSEE POLICE DEPARTMENT

FEB. 4

• A disorderly subject was reported on West James Street.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Burt Mill Road.

• A motor vehicle accident was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• A welfare check was conducted during a harassment call on Third Avenue.

• A domestic dispute was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

FEB. 3

• A child custody dispute was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Central Boulevard.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Gilmer Avenue.

• Reckless driving was reported on Herren Street.

• Theft was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• A welfare check was conducted on Third Avenue.

• An abandoned vehicle was reported on Highway 229. FEB. 2 A noise complaint was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• Suspicious activity was reported on Fourth Street.

• A domestic incident was reported on Friendship Road.

• A domestic incident was reported on Third Avenue.

• Gunfire was reported on Central Boulevard.

• An animal complaint was reported on Burt Mill Road.

• A person with a gun was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• A motor vehicle accident with no injuries was reported on Jordan Avenue.

• A motor vehicle

accident with no injuries was reported on Barnett Boulevard.

• A welfare check was conducted on Third Avenue.

• Menacing was reported on Barnett Boulevard.

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

• Drug activity was reported on Fourth Street.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Birch Street.

• A white male was arrested on Freeman Avenue.

• A welfare check was conducted on North Ann Avenue.

• A welfare check was conducted on Freeman Avenue.

• Suspicious activity was reported on Dorman Avenue. FEB. 1

• Unauthorized use of a vehicle was reported on South Tallassee Drive.

• A welfare check was conducted on Sunwood Court.

• Reckless driving was reported on Jordan Avenue.

• A welfare check was conducted on Kent Road.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Barnett Boulevard.

• A Black female was arrested on Freeman Avenue.

• A Black male was arrested on Barnett Boulevard.

• A motor vehicle accident with injuries was reported on Notasulga Road. JAN. 31

• Suspicious activity was reported on Eubanks Street.

• Fraudulent use of a credit card was reported on Easy Acres.

• Assistance was given to the Tallassee Fire Department on Central Boulevard.

• An animal complaint was reported on Morning Circle.

Craig Stewart and Lisa Hilyer and William and Lacey (Pierson, Evilia); numerous nieces and nephews and a lifetime of friends. A memorial service will be held at Bethlehem East Baptist Church, 7561 Upper River Rd, Tallassee, AL) on Saturday, February 3, 2024. Rev. John Sparks will be officiating. The family will receive guests starting at 10:30 am with service to follow at 11:00 am. Expressions of sympathy may be memorial contributions to Hospice of Montgomery. Online condolences may be posted at www.linvillememorial.com.

Linville Memorial Funeral Home and Crematory Eclectic, Alabama

• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Grant Street.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Gilmer Avenue.

• Assistance was given to a citizen on Freeman Avenue.

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

• A disorderly person was reported on Highway 229.

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

• A motor vehicle accident with no injuries was reported on North Ann Avenue. JAN. 30

• Menacing was reported on Washington Street.

• A domestic dispute was reported on Hillcrest Street.

• A juvenile complaint was reported on Laurel Street.

• A welfare check was conducted on Gilmer Avenue.

• Theft was reported on Delta Road.

• Fraudulent use of a credit card was reported on Varner Road.

• Forgery was reported on Burt Mill Road.

• An animal complaint was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• A motor vehicle accident was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• Criminal mischief was reported on Fourth Street.

• Animal control was requested on Gilmer Avenue.

• Animal control was requested on First Avenue.

• A domestic dispute was reported on Quail Drive.

• A suspicious person was reported on Friendship Road.

• A motor vehicle accident with entrapment was reported on East Patton Street.

• A white male was arrested during a domestic dispute call on South Ann Avenue.

JAN. 29

• Suspicious activity was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• A domestic dispute was reported on South Ann Avenue.

• A white male was arrested during a traffic stop on Central Boulevard.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Upper River Road.

• A welfare check was conducted on Powers Avenue.

• A Black male was arrested on Central Boulevard.

• A domestic complaint was reported on South Ann Avenue.

• Assistance was given to a citizen on Fourth Street.

• Harassment was reported on South Ann Avenue.

• A welfare check was conducted on Gilmer Avenue.

• Harassment was reported on South Ann Avenue.

• A welfare check was conducted on Evergreen Street.

• Theft by deception was reported on Hillcrest Street.

• Trespassing was reported on South Ann Avenue.

• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Little Road.

• Assistance was given to a citizen on Notasulga Road.

• Harassment was reported on Barnett Boulevard.

• An animal complaint was reported on West Patton Street.

• Burglary was reported on Friendship Road.

WETUMPKA POLICE DEPARTMENT JAN. 29

• Fraudulent use of a credit card was reported on U.S. Highway 231. JAN. 26

• Theft was reported on U.S. Highway 231. JAN. 25

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

2 prisoners convicted in Elmore County denied parole

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

A convicted rapist and a convicted murderer were denied parole last week.

Howard Brown, 69, and John Lamar Johnson, 81, had hearings with the Alabama Bureau of Pardons and Parole Jan. 25. According to court records, Brown pleaded guilty in Elmore County to first-degree rape and second-degree rape in 1993. He was sentenced to 35 years in prison.

At Brown’s parole hearing, a

friend of the victim, a victim advocate group and the Alabama Attorney General’s Office spoke against his release. Brown also had a 1974 rape conviction out of Perry County. He was sentenced to 25 years in prison and was released after 10 years. Brown is currently housed at Staton Correctional Facility. Johnson was convicted of a Hous-

ton County murder in 1974 and sentenced to life in prison. While at Holman Prison in Atmore, he was charged and found guilty of escape. In 1992 he pleaded guilty to escape charges from Draper Correctional Facility and was sentenced to life in prison again. Johnson is currently imprisoned at Easterling Correctional Center. He is eligible for another parole hearing in 2029.

BROWN

JOHNSON

Humane

Society of Elmore County News

The shelter is a community effort

By REA CORD HSEC Executive Director

One misconception we hear too often is we are a part of Elmore County government which we are not. The Humane Society of Elmore County is a private, non-profit organization. We do have contracts with various cities and the county to do the housing and stray hold portion of animal control under the Code of Alabama, so, while private, we do perform a pseudo governmental role. In the long ago past, we may have been what people call a “pound” but we have moved far beyond that in our role as a vital asset to Elmore County animals and citizens.

Operating a modern animal shelter means incurring all the expenses of any private business. We have to pay for

our staff (running a shelter requires paid staffing 365 days/year); utilities (electricity, water, gas, phone, internet, garbage); insurances (vehicle, property, workman’s comp, liability, etc); animal vaccines, spay/ neuter surgeries, Veterinary costs for injured & sick animals; microchips and medications; repairs/ improvements; vehicle operation and upkeep; cleaning & general supplies, pet food (by the way, we are in great need of dog food right now), and so much more. The difference between us and a for-profit business is adoption fees of the animals we are working to find homes for (our product per se), do not even come close to covering the cost of running a shelter. So, as a non-profit, we take tax-deductible donations of money and goods

from the public to help us in our mission to save as many lives as possible. We are incredibly grateful to our donors, supporters and adopters who help ensure we can continue our work to help the almost 4000 animals that came to us last year.

But we don’t just sit back and hope our donors will cover all of our needs as our board and volunteers work diligently to raise funds via fund-raising activities and events. Our Tail’s End Thrift Store is our single largest fund-raising activity and we are immensely grateful for the Volunteers who give of their time and effort to make it such a success. All the proceeds (less utilities, supplies and repairs) come to our shelter to fund our current and future activities. With everything inside the big store, the special

Zeus is a 2-year old male Husky who weighs about 70 pounds. He was surrendered to us for being an escape artist and chasing livestock. He is a striking boy with one blue and one gold eye. He loves to go for rides, is good with children and dogs but not cats, chickens or livestock. Huskies can definitely be escape artists but we can say he has shown no inclination to escape our kennels here in the shelter, but we don’t have livestock

around to entice him, so perhaps being a city dog would be best for Zeus.

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

a free health exam with your participating veterinarian.

If you are interested in meeting Cola or any of the pets at HSEC, the first step is to fill out an adoption application online. Once approved, you will be contacted by someone from the humane society. HSEC is located at 255 Central Plank Road in Wetumpka. The phone number is 334567-3377 and the website is www.elmorehumane. org.

DHR notes importance of emergency foster parents

By ABIGAIL MURPHY Multimedia Reporter

Opening one’s heart and home can be overwhelming to many, but emergency foster parents do it at the drop of a hat.

When a child is in immediate danger of harm within their home, an emergency foster parent will take the child in with limited information until a more permanent home is found.

“The main misconception is that emergency foster parents do not have to meet the same standards or complete the same training as other foster parents, which is not true,” said Amanda Mancuso, Alabama Department of Human Resources director of children and family services. “All of our foster homes must meet the requirements and be approved, no matter how long a child will be placed in the home.”

All foster parents must complete the Trauma Informed Partnering for Safety and Permanence training. Everyone in

holiday building with holiday items year-round and the outside ‘dig-in’ area, our thrift store is one busy place. Besides volunteering during the Thrift Store’s normal hours of operation, which are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, there are opportunities, on other days with sorting, pricing and placing items to keep the store current. Please just stop by to check it out and talk to the folks about volunteering. While you are there, please also thank our Volunteers for their endless hard work operating our thrift store. Keeping our shelter going is a community effort and we just want to thank everyone who supports us by donating

both money, pet food and supplies, donating and shopping at our thrift store, adopting our pets, volunteering, sharing our story and being

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

FREE NEWS

Why isn’t the news free?

A journalist’s job is extensive. In order to be paid, it is important that the community supports newspapers by purchasing a subscription. Their mission is to make the community a better place through unbiased, accurate reporting. A subscription costs far less than not knowing.

the family over 19 who lives in the home must also have a criminal background check.

Meanwhile, everyone older than 14 is required to complete a Child Abuse and Neglect clearance. A social worker also must perform home visits to ensure that the home meets the safety standards as well as get to know the foster family.

“Children need a safe place to go when they have been subjected to abuse and, or neglect,” Mancuso said. “When that happens in the middle of the night or weekends, it is in their best interest to have emergency foster parents who are willing to take children with little to no notice and with little or no background information.”

From there, the Department of Human Resources works through the foster care system to find a more permanent place. The emergency foster parents can also keep the child for a longer timeframe to decide if that is a good fit for both of them.

EDUCATE. SUBSCRIBE. BE A READER.

Community Jfosyita(

805 Friendship Road - Tallassee, AL 36078 (334)-283-6541

Gastroenterology

334-283-8662

Thomas Bianchi, MD Mon - Thu 8:00am - 4:00pm Pediatrics 334-283-3111

Adrienne Bolan Goggans, CPNP Mon -Thu 8:00am -4:30pm Fri 8:00am - Noon Podiatry 334-283-3897

Chanda Houts, DPM Mon - Thu 8:00am - 4:30pm Fri 8:00am - Noon General Surgery 334-283-3896

Michael Courtney, MD Mon -Thu 8:00am -5:00pm Fri 8:00am -Noon

Community Medical Arts (Newborn -Adult) 334-283-3111

Van Millin, MD - Family Medicine

Adrienne Bolan Goggans, CPNP

DeRay Williams, CRNP Mon -Thu 8:00am -4:30pm; Fri 8:00am- Noon

Tallassee Family Care (Ages 18 -Adult) 334-283-3477

John Porter, MD - Internal Medicine

Zane Kelly, CRNP Mon & Tue 8:00am -7:00pm Wed & Thu 8:00am -6:00pm; Closed on Friday �-Tallassee Internal Medicine Ages 18 -Adult)

-334-283-3844

Temull, MD - Internal Medicine

8:00am -4:30pm; Fri 8:00am -11:30am

Surgical Center (Ages 12 -Adult)

Candace Mangum, CRNP

Pet of the Week - Zeus

Our View Opinion

People should have school choice

FEngage with Black History Month

The banjo is a staple of Appalachian music. And many have forgotten its U.S. origins began with the enslaved African Americans on plantations who were make-shifting this instrument out of gourds.

The instrument was a call back to West African heritage. Now when people think of the banjo, they think of the more Eurocentric drum body and tuning peg head.

The banjo is just one instrument, musical style and piece of art that over time its roots in African culture has been forgotten by the mainstream. Which is why it is so important the theme for this year’s Black History Month is African Americans and the Arts. There is so much rich history of African American art. Some people have never heard of, others have been co-opted by non-Black artists and a few are well known but not always appreciated to the fullest extent.

And this is time to not only look back on Black history as a whole but also to look to Black artists and the current history makers. Art is more than music and instruments, it’s literature, film, painting, theater, design, food, folklore, fashion.

For this Black History Month, we at The Outlook encourage all people to find a Black creator within their realm of interest and study their work.

If you love reading, maybe it’s time to pick up a Toni Morrison book. If you love theater, see a production of Langston Hughes and Zora Neale Hurston’s Mule Bones. If you love fashion, study the designs of Jay Jaxon or Tracy Reese.

But most importantly don’t let this stop in February — continue to support Black creators, both in the past and present. Let us not have some of the greatest works of art and artists be swept under the rug as for centuries.

We’d like to share your thoughts and opinions with the community for free. You may submit one letter to the editor per month (300 words or less) and/or a guest column (500 words or less). Include name, address and phone number. We reserve the right to refuse any submissions. Mail: Your View, The Tallassee Tribune 211 Barnett Blvd., Tallassee, AL 36078 Email: editorelmore@thewetumpkaherald.com

Obituaries: 25 cents per word with a $15 charge for picture per paper (Herald, Observer, Tribune). Obituaries are only accepted via the funeral home in charge of arrangements. We do not accept obituaries from individuals.

Weddings, Engagements, Anniversaries, or Birth

Announcements: These significant family events or milestones are 25 cents per word and $15 for a photo and must be emailed to us at announcements@thewetumpkaherald.com. Include name and telephone number. The text for the announcement must be in the body of the email (not as an attachment) and photographs must be sent as a .jpeg attached to the email. Announcements will appear within 10 days in The Tribune, The Herald or The Observer. Follow.

We

or 40 years, I worked in education as a teacher, coach, and mentor. I have watched the school choice movement grow and change many students’ lives. Over the past few weeks, I am proud to have been able to recognize National School Choice Week on the Senate floor, host a roundtable discussion with parents from across the country, and visit a magnet school in Huntsville. When I first started in education 40 years ago, there was no opportunity for school choice. Homeschooling was very rare, but our government schools were in better shape back then. Today, there are about three million kids being homeschooled across our country. Homeschooling is the fastest-growing form of education in America. It’s growing because parents recognize that our schools are failing our kids. I’ve watched our education systems decline with my own eyes. I’ve visited schools, parents, and principals in 49 states and the American Samoa. It’s time for lawmakers across this country to recognize that our schools are failing. Education is the main reason that I ran for the United States Senate. Education isn’t just a local problem – it is a national problem. It’s undeniable that our

TOMMY TUBERVILLE Senator

K -12 education system is in a crisis – because of job protections and teachers’ unions. We spend more money on education in the United States of America than any other country. But we’re not in first place. We’re not even close, and that’s a shame. We pay over $16,000 per student in this country in our public and government schools. The average among developed countries is $12,000. We’re spending over 30 percent more money, but we’re not getting 30 percent better test scores, we’re getting a lot less. We are 34th in the world in math. If you can’t do math, you can’t survive in today’s world of technology. We have to improve our math education if we want to compete in a modern high-tech economy.

So, what is school choice?

School choice just means funding the student instead of the school building. Right now, we spend all of our money on school buildings, teachers, and administrations – not on the actual students. Our education system does not

exist for the sake of teachers, principals, administrators, or even coaches. It’s not about our teachers’ unions; it’s about equipping the next generation of Americans. It’s about giving them the opportunity for a better and brighter future.

Competition makes everyone better. Whether it’s in football, business or just life. Competition makes us all better. Kids deserve the best teachers. If we create more school choice in this country, perhaps some schools would focus more on teaching kids to read and write instead of on indoctrinating them. At the end of the day, the key to unlocking the American dream is education. If you can’t read and write in our country, you can’t make it. You’re going to end up living off the government. And that’s not what this country is about. Our future is built on our kids. If we don’t educate our kids, we won’t have much of a future. I know we’ve got a lot of problems going on in our world today and a lot of division in our country. But, if we unleash the potential of our young people, there is nothing that we cannot achieve.

Tommy Tuberville is a United States Senator representing Alabama.

Kick off Fat Tuesday in style

Tuesday night, please come enjoy some delicious pancakes and sausage at St. Vincent de Paul Church, located at 620 Gilmer Ave. It’s an annual tradition to serve pancakes and sausage on Mardi Gras. We’ll be open from 5 to 7 p.m. that evening.

You can drop by and pick up as many plates as you want. All that we ask is that you make a donation to the Knights of Columbus, which is a Christian charitable society. Easter is the most important holiday on the Christian calendar. It coincides with Passover, and occurs each year on the first Sunday following the first Full Moon after the vernal equinox. Therefore, Easter could happen on any given Sunday between March 22 and April 25 depending on the year.

The 40 days prior to Easter are called Lent. The 40 days represent the time in Jesus Christ’s life spent in the wilderness before he began his public ministry, where he was tempted by the Devil. Forty days is significant in other ways, such as the 40 days and 40 nights of rain and flooding, for example.

Lent is a time for self-denial and sacrifice, prayer and penitence, and reflection. It begins with Ash Wednesday. But that

MICHAEL BIRD Columnist

day before Ash Wednesday gets the most notice: Fat Tuesday. Unfortunately, the world never seems to take note of the religious significance of this particular day.

Fat Tuesday is the English translation of the French “Mardi Gras”. The largest celebrations in the world can be seen in Rio de Janiero (“Carnivale”) and, closer to home, along the Gulf Coast in places like Mobile and New Orleans. Mobile is the home to the first Mardi Gras celebration in our country, having commenced there in 1702.

On Fat Tuesday, there were celebrations all over the world to mark the end of Ordinary Time for now, saying farewell to old ways with overindulgence in food and drink. Cleaning out the pantry and cabinet, finishing off all the sugary, bad-for-you food (and, for many, the remainder of their liquor) is the goal of Mardi Gras. The Knights of Columbus, of which I am a member, even hosts an annual

pancake supper that night. There are thousands of parades from one Krewe or another. Three years ago, a 330-foot float, the largest ever, appeared in New Orleans. Even towns with no connection to the original Mardi Gras – such as Wetumpka and Millbrook –have started staging parades and events in January and February. Schools in the Mobile area let out for an entire week in celebration of Mardi Gras.

When people mention Fat Tuesday, it sounds like a holiday soaked in grease. However, perhaps we should choose to think of it as a chance for a fresh start, for those New Year’s Resolutions to get a second chance. During this 40-day period, consider some days of fast and abstinence as part of a self-denial plan. It has worked for many Christians for a couple thousand years. It’s a crazy world, and occasionally we need to slow down and think about making it better, one person at a time, with a little self-sacrifice and soul searching.

Don’t forget to join us Tuesday for pancakes and sausage. Laissez le bon temps rouler!

Michael Bird is a music teacher with Tallassee City Schools.

Legislative session starts this week

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

There are a lot of things the Alabama legislature could decide in this year’s session. Some of the most important topics up for discussion include election security, school choice and gambling, said Rep. Troy Stubbs. Locally two bills will be considered that’ll affect just Elmore County, both involving compensation. One is for the Elmore County Board of Equalization and the other is for the elected offices of sheriff, probate judge and revenue commissioner. While the county

commission sets the salary calendar for many positions, it does not for elected officials. Instead, that must go through the legislature.

The commission can not change compensation for elected officials. It takes a local bill passed by the state legislature to change the pay.

“The commission is trying to make sure they are fairly compensated compared to neighboring counties,” said Stubbs, who represents Elmore County and was a former commissioner.

The other local bill, if approved by the legislature, would require the

Board of Equalization to follow state guidelines. Ultimately, it would mean an increase in a pay rate that is currently fixed at half of the state recommended rate.

Stubbs believes the increase will mean more people with more knowledge of property and its value will be interested in serving on the Board of Equalization.

Stubbs is entering his second year serving in the legislature. Before Tuesday’s State of the State address by Gov. Kay Ivey, he said one of the biggest issues likely to be tackled in Montgomery this year is school choice.

It will likely include an education savings account where state tax funds allocated to a student will follow the student’s education setting.

“The details of who is eligible, what schools students could transfer to, homeschool opportunities, all of those are the moving parts in it,” Stubbs said.

Stubbs anticipated Ivey to reveal details about the school choice plan in the State of the State address. But just because she said it doesn’t mean that’s what the law will be.

“It will give us an opportunity to consider what she views as an

CommunityCalendar

THURSDAY, FEB. 8

opportunity to improve education across the state,” Stubbs said. “How it is going to specifically look as far as who is eligible, what ages, all of those things, that is what we will likely be discussing in the coming weeks.”

Gambling and lottery will likely be considered by the legislature this session.

“In general it will be a heavily discussed topic,” Stubbs said. “Early in the session there will be a bill filed which, I anticipate, will be a comprehensive gaming bill that will likely include various forms of gambling, lottery and other things.”

The legislature will also revisit ballot harvesting and election security. It will look at who is involved in the process of absentee voting.

“I think it will get to a vote this year,” Stubbs said. “It puts restrictions on who can get the ballot for you, who can fill the ballot out, who can turn the ballot in for you.” Stubbs said much of what happens in the session will depend on the agenda presented by the governor Tuesday night.

“We can then get to work,” Stubbs said. “We can have discussions and make decisions on what needs to be done.”

php?ticketing=wdp

THURSDAY, MARCH 7

GALENTINE’S EVENT: Sistrunk will be hosting a Galentine’s event from 5 to 7 p.m. Feb. 8 with items available from Sistrunk, All Things Desired, Handmade by Leigh Anne, Plunder, Posh, Lissa Ledbetter, Council Rock Creations, Chloebug Creations and more. Grove Station will be open for dinner. There will be treats for guests to enjoy.

ACRYLIC PAINTING: Shirley Esco is teaching an introductory course in acrylic painting from 10 a.m. to noon Feb. 8 at The Art Mill in Millbrook. All skill levels are welcomed and supplies are provided. The cost is $45. To register email danae.morgan@cityofmillbrook-al.gov.

SATURDAY, FEB. 10

SATURDAY, FEB. 17

LIVING HISTORY SATURDAY:

Ft. Toulouse-Ft. Jackson is hosting demonstrations of how people lived in the area as settlers began to arrive on Saturday, Feb. 17.

WOMEN’S WORKSHOP:

Coosa Jiu Jitsu & Wellness will be hosting an Intentionally Forward Women’s Workshop from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Feb. 17 in Wetumpka. The cost is $95 before Feb. 2 and $145 after. Workshop highlights include self defense; cultivating a healthy self-relationship; guided self-reflection activities; and a floral design workshop. To purchase tickets, visit www.stackedintent.com.

DADDY-DAUGHTER DANCE:

COFFEE & CONNECTIONS: The Wetumpka Chamber of Commerce will host its Rise & Shine Coffee & Connections event at Homesouth Roofing. It will be held from 7:30 to 9 a.m. March 7 and is an opportunity for local professionals and community leaders to connect. Coffee will be provided.

SATURDAY, MARCH 16

LIVING HISTORY SATURDAY: Ft. Toulouse-Ft. Jackson is hosting demonstrations of how people lived in the area as settlers began to arrive on Saturday, March 16.

ANNUAL CHAMBER

MARDI GRAS: The Order of Cimarron will be hosting its annual Mardi Gras parade and festival in downtown Wetumpka from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Feb. 10. Tons of vendors will be featured at Gold Star Park. The parade begins at 1 p.m.

FAMILY HISTORY WORKSHOP: The Elmore County Museum will host its third annual workshop featuring historian Dr. Marty Olliff, professional genealogists Susan Martin and Kristian Cow Cleaver and researcher Sheralyn Belyeu. Presentations include genetic genealogy; Tallassee Doughboys; beginning genealogy; and Findagrave vs. Billiongraves. There will be door prizes between each presentation. The cost is $5 per person and registration can be found online.

THURSDAY, FEB. 15

ACRYLIC PAINTING: Shirley Esco is teaching an introductory course in acrylic painting from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Feb. 15 at The Art Mill in Millbrook. All skill levels are welcomed and supplies are provided. The cost is $45. To register email danae.morgan@cityofmillbrook-al.gov.

THURSDAY, FEB. 15 - MARCH 2

SPAMALOT: The Wetumpka Depot Players are performing Monty Python’s Spamalot at 7 p.m. Feb. 15, 16, 17, 22, 23, 24, 29, March 1 and 2. There is a matinee performance at 2 p.m. Feb. 25. The comedy is based on the 1975 film and adapted for the stage. Tickets can be purchased at https://app.arts-people.com/index.

The annual Friendship Fire Department Daddy-Daughter Dance is 6 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 17. Food will be served. Tickets are $35 per couple and $5 for each additional daughter. They can be purchased at http://bit.ly/3SxQ4zl.

THURSDAY, FEB. 22

CRATER LECTURE: The Wetumpka Impact Crater Commission is hosting geologist Dr. David King Jr. at 6:30 p.m. Feb. 22 at the Wetumpka Civic Center. Dr. King will speak about the history of the marine crater in Wetumpka and what Wetumpka was like 85 million years ago.

FEB. 23 - 24

CRATER TOUR: The Wetumpka Impact Crater Commission is holding its annual crater tours Friday, Feb. 23 and 24. On Friday tours are at 11:30 a.m. and 1:15 p.m. On Saturday tours are at 9 a.m., 10:45 a.m. and 12:55 p.m. The tour takes guests to vantage points to view what has been called the best preserved marine impact crater in the world. It costs $25 for adults and $15 for students. Reservations are required by calling 334-567-4637.

THURSDAY, FEB. 29

LOW-COUNTRY BOIL: The Elmore County Pregnancy Center and First Choice are hosting a low country boil benefit at 6 p.m. Feb. 29 at The Eclectic Warehouse in Eclectic. It is a free event but attendees need to register at https://bit.ly/47URxEn.

MEETING: The Wetumpka Area Chamber of Commerce is hosting the 2024 Annual Meeting, ‘The Night A Star Fell,’ from 6 to 10 p.m.

FRIDAY, MARCH 22

BINGO: Paintball 111 in Wetumpka will host a Ladies Only Bingo Night from 6 to 9 p.m. March 22. Tickets are $20 and each bingo card is $1. Doors open at 6 p.m. and bingo begins at 7. Wine is complimentary for women ages 21 and older.

THURSDAY, APRIL 11

MIXER & SILENT AUCTION: Paintball 111 in Wetumpka will be hosting a small business mixer and silent auction from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. April 11. The proceeds will benefit a charitable organization, and the night is an opportunity to network and unlock potential for business growth. Tickets are $10 per person plus one silent auction item per business. Tickets are for adults only and reserved for small businesses in the area.

THURSDAY, APRIL 18

COFFEE & CONNECTIONS: The Wetumpka Chamber of Commerce will host its Rise & Shine Coffee & Connections event at ASE Credit Union. It will be held from 7:30 to 9 a.m. April 18 and is an opportunity for local professionals and community leaders to connect. Coffee will be provided.

SATURDAY, APRIL 20

WAR ENCAMPMENT: Ft. Toulouse-Ft. Jackson is holding its annual French and Indian War Encampment with demonstrations Saturday, April 20.

STEWART HOPES TO BRING STABILITY TO CHIEF JUSTICE ROLE

By LIZI ARBOGAST GWIN Managing Editor

It’s not every day a small town in Central Alabama gets a visit from someone running for Chief Justice of Alabama’s Supreme Court.

But Judge Sarah Stewart made a campaign stop in Alexander City on Wednesday, giving an exclusive sit-down interview with Tallapoosa Publishers Inc.

Stewart is currently an associate justice on the Supreme Court. A longtime resident of Mobile, Stewart has worked her way up the court system in Alabama and is now ready for the top job.

“We have 2,100 employees and a $300 million budget,” Stewart explained. “We have courthouses or offices in every county, and a lot of counties have more than one. So it’s almost like the CEO of a major corporation, and you need to walk into that with some understanding of how the system works.”

That’s exactly what Stewart believes she brings to the table.

She graduated with a bachelor’s and master’s degree from the University of Arkansas before attending law school at Vanderbilt. She then practiced law for about 14 years before becoming a circuit court judge in

Mobile, where she stayed for 13 years.

She never even expected to be on the Supreme Court.

“At the time, the Alabama Supreme Court didn’t have any trial judges on the court,” Stewart said. “A group of people came to me and said they would really like to have a trial judge, and I said, ‘Well, I’ll find you one.’”

For her own part, Stewart was raising a family and happy “in her own world,” she said.

But she couldn’t find a good candidate, so she decided to take a shot herself. The risk was low as it was a “free run,” meaning she didn’t have to give up her current seat to run for the associate justice position.

“We had a run off, and I still remember when we won, I’m sitting in my living room because I

didn’t have a watch party or anything,” Stewart said.

She said when her opponent, a good friend, called to concede, she was still shocked.

“I hadn’t even thought about how this is really going to impact us or we’re going to arrange this,” Stewart recalled.

However, it was the perfect time. One of her kids was about to graduate from high school and the other was in college, and it was finally time for her to focus on herself.

Currently, Chief Justice Tom Parker is in the position and will be the first since 2001 to finish out a full term. In Alabama, you cannot run for reelection for the Supreme Court if you are more than 70. With Stewart being younger in her career, she believes she can really bring some stability to the

job.

“We’ve averaged a new chief justice every 2 ½ years, so when you do that, you get that kind of churn in leadership,” Stewart said. “You don’t really have any long-term strategic planning, and it’s really hard to keep up with the salaries, the evolution of technology, all of those things. We have a real need in the court system.

“Chief Justice Parker has worked really hard to stabilize a lot of that but there’s obviously still lots of work left to be done.”

After meeting with Tallapoosa Publishers Inc., Stewart toured Tallapoosa County with Probate Judge Tal East. They had a meeting with officials at Judge Terry Mitchell’s home then toured the Alexander City municipal complex with Mayor Woody Baird.

Commission recognizes Blue Gray Tennis at 17 Springs

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

For decades the Blue Gray Tennis Classic has attracted the top collegiate teams across the country for an early season tournament in Montgomery.

For the first time portions of the tournament are coming to Elmore County and the new tennis complex at 17 Springs.

“It is one of the first large events in the facility,” Elmore County chief operations officer Richie Beyer told the commission Monday. “It’s a great exposure for Elmore County.”

Beyer said the portion of the tournament normally held at the

Continued from A1

current recreation center during construction of a new one. But first the city has to find a location to build a new shop and wait to finalize funding and plans.

“We are waiting for the landscape architect hired by the county to provide a series of drawings to aid in getting input,” Hill said.

According to Hill, the city isn’t sure of an investment beyond mak-

Continued from A1

others.

O’Connor Tennis Center near Cramton Bowl is coming to 17 Springs. It is about half the tournament according to Beyer.

The commission passed a resolution at its Monday meeting recognizing the accomplishments of the tennis classic over the years and to welcome organizers to Elmore County.

The commission also heard from Lee County EMA director Rita Smith who recognized the efforts from the Elmore County EMA to support gameday at Auburn University.

IN OTHER ACTION THE ELMORE COUNTY COMMISSION:

• Approved the minutes of

ing property available in the quality of life projects.

“We are still looking at how that would work with the amount the county has kind of promised,” Hill said. “I feel like they will put about $10 million out there for both the city and the schools.”

More quality of life of projects are in the works. Among those include a possible splash pad in a later phase.

“It is all still in the planning stages,” Hill said. “It is hard to put a

“That’s who she is,” Spain said. “She’s that way with everything. Through her illness, it’s always been, ‘How does her mom feel? How does this person feel?’ She’s just sweet.” Spain added her bandmates have also done a lot for her through her illness and Jackson wanted a way to give back.

That’s just who Jackson was,

the Jan. 22 meeting.

• Approved a memorandum of warrants for the period of Jan. 13-26 in the amount of $2,867,329.03.

• Approved a resolution supporting Amendment 1 to the Alabama Constitution.

• Awarded a bid to Robinson Recycling for disposal of scrap signs and scrap sign posts.

• Was reminded the Elmore County Administrative Complex will be closed Feb. 19 in observance of President’s Day. The next meeting of the Elmore County Commission is scheduled for 5 p.m. Monday, Feb. 26

time frame on any of it.”

Quality of life projects are also in the works in Eclectic and Holtville.

If plans come together, installing an artificial playing surface at the O’Brien Stadium could start after this football season.

“It’s a multi-part plan,” Tallassee City Schools superintendent Dr. Brock Nolin said. “It would start with an artificial playing surface for the stadium for football and soccer.”

A possible track is being considered at Tal-

and the Reeltown community gave her the same love. Just Sunday, people gathered in Tallassee to play bingo in Melody’s honor. Now, all we have left is the memories.

My fondest memory with Melody was at the Reeltown state championship game. You know they are so strict there about who can be on the field and who can’t, but Melody was the ultimate exception to every rule. During halftime, she got a chance to get on the field. She seemed especially tired that day, but her

lassee Elementary School where the city schools have some property.

Both Hill and Nolin are appreciative of the help from Elmore County on projects to impact all of Tallassee. Hill said the city’s limited funding is tied up in infrastructure projects and keeping the city functioning. Nolin said the expense of an artificial playing surface at the stadium is a pipedream without help.

“We are so appreciative of what Elmore County is trying to do for us,” Nolin said.

smile was contagious. It always was. Melody will be remembered in so many ways. She’ll be remembered for her giving spirit; she’ll be remembered for her fight. She’ll be remembered for her generous donation and her inspiration for Reeltown and beyond. But to me, she’ll always be remembered for that smile.

Lizi Arbogast is the managing editor of Tallapoosa Publishers Inc. Abigail Murphy contributed to this report.

SUBMITTED | TPI

Associate Justice Sarah Stewart, second from left, poses with Probate Judge Tal East, county commissioner John McKelvey and judge Terry Mitchell.

Being present

Greetings from the corner of Bridge and Bridge! I pray everyone reading this week’s column is well and that the new year is off to a good start. With all the sickness running around, simply being well is quite an accomplishment these days!

Sometime in the mid-1970s, Woody Allen was quoted as saying “80% of life is showing up.” Over the years, Allen and others have corrected the original quote, claiming that Allen said, “80% of success is showing up.” In either case, the quote from the famed playwright and filmmaker has withstood the test of time.

Whenever I am reminded of the expression, my mind goes to thoughts about being pres-

ent. Much of my formal training for ministry, especially in regards to chaplaincy, related to being present. When ministering to others in any capacity, presence is the first order of business.

While this may seem like an obvious statement, there is good reason for it to be named and claimed. It is a reminder that ministry, in any form, is about relationship, first and foremost. Ministry is not

something one person “does” to another person. Ministry is all about relationship.

Ministry of presence is further understood in one of the axioms of education. That axiom holds that “A student does not care what a teacher knows until they know that a teacher cares.” Having a spouse who has committed the bulk of her adult life to the vocation of public education drives that point home for me.

In my own life, I prefer to blend the two together. God created human beings in interdependence. Simply put, human beings have in inherent need to be together with others. That divine element means more than simple physical proximity.

Tallassee Churches

People in any given community find their way to the church for a variety of reasons. Some are members who come in exercise of belonging to a church family. Some are from other places who seek a familiar denominational environment. Some are members of the community who feel called, for one reason or another, to come when needing help. Others are complete strangers God directs to the church. In any case, the desire is a shared one. People desire the presence of God. The church –every church - is supposed to be that place. If the church - any church - has a business mindset, this reality results in a prioritization of presence. Members receive first priority. Members of the same denomination come in a close second. Residents of the church’s community come next, and whatever is left over is for the strangers among us. While this might make sense as a business

model, it is in no way the business of the church.

On the contrary, the churchany church – is supposed to be a place where children of God go to experience the presence of God. This applies to every church and to every child of God. God is ever present, and every church shares the purpose of being that presence. Gospel truth calls all who claim covenant relationship with God, in whatever fashion that is, to the same thing. That shared witness is to follow the example of Jesus Christ. Jesus was present with every single person God placed in his path. We are called to do the same, as individuals and as the church. Jews, Gentiles, Catholics, Protestants, Mormons, Muslims, Buddhists, Atheists, Agnostics and all others share the call to be present in the lives of others.

Surrounding Area Churches

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

REV. JONATHAN YARBORO Columnist

Dalton MiDDleton SportS eDitor dalton.middleton@thewetumpkaherald.com

Reeltown finishes runner-up in state track meet

By HENRY ZIMMER Sports Reporter

The Reeltown Rebels brought home another trophy on Saturday. Adding to the school's state runner-up finish in football, the Reeltown indoor track team finished second at the indoor track state finals for 1A-3A.

Unsurprisingly, senior Arthur Woods took home gold in the 60-meter hurdles to lead the team. Senior JJ Kendrick finished second in the event.

The boys relay team also earned a second-place finish, while junior Tae Martin placed second and Woods placed fourth in the 60-meter dash.

Tallassee wrestling prepares for super sectionals

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

The duals season is over, and now it’s every wrestler for himself.

The AHSAA Super Sectionals wrestling tournament will be held this weekend at the Garrett Coliseum in Montgomery.

Classes 1A-4A, 6A and 7A will begin their 32-man brackets on Friday while Class 5A, which includes Tallassee, Elmore County and Holtville, begin on Saturday.

Tallassee is looking to make a big splash in the

tournament. The Tigers finished runner-up in the event last season and now the Tigers just wrapped up a 37-1 overall record in duals with their only loss coming to Scottsboro in the state championship.

“We just want to stay healthy now,” Tigers coach John Mask said.

“We have a great team and the guys have worked hard. They’re ready so now the main focus is getting there healthy. Once we get there, I’m going to be excited to watch them

See TRACK, Page B2

Reeltown falls in area tournament

By HENRY ZIMMER Sports Reporter

Reeltown could not escape the opening round of the Class 2A, Area 6 tournament. It allowed Lannett to claw back and ultimately fell 59-56. The loss means the end of the season.

Reeltown had handled

Lanett for much of the game, knocking down shots and driving hard against Lanett’s defense. At half, Reeltown looked to be in control, with 10 points in the first half from Dee Brown and nine from Body Smith. After the break,

“I am just super proud of these guys that were able to first of all qualify and then do what they were able to do,” coach Jarrod Wooten said. “For us to be able to finish second in the state… We might have even left some points on the table.”

TALLASSEE STUNS BEAUREGARD WITH FURIOUS COMEBACK

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

When Tallassee needed a shot, senior Roderius Glover stepped up and delivered in the biggest moments of the game.

Glover knocked down four 3-pointers and scored 15 points as the Tigers stunned Beauregard, 49-42, in the first round of the AHSAA Class 5A, Area 7 tournament Monday night. The Tigers (13-12) trailed by as much as 11 points in the fourth quarter but stormed back to keep their season alive.

The Tigers now advance to Wednesday’s area tournament championship at Valley. Regardless of the outcome, the Tigers have clinched a berth in the 5A sub regionals.

“We’ve been to a lot of sub regional games in my seven years here,” Tigers coach Keiven Mixson said. “That was our goal this year and we’ve accomplished that one. Now we have two games left and a chance to make a regional.”

Tallassee’s offense was sputtering for much of the first half, but the Tigers kept it tied early. Beauregard, however, took a 16-10 lead and was looking to pull away when Glover knocked down back-to-back 3s on consecutive possessions to tie the game.

That was the last field goal for Tallassee for more than eight minutes of game time and the Tigers saw their tie game fall to a 39-28 deficit at the beginning of the fourth quarter.

Tallassee had only eight field goals entering the fourth quarter, but Glover connected on a big 3-pointer to try and get the Tigers a little energy. His shot cut the

lead to 38-31 then the Tigers got the game to within three points with baskets from JD McKenzie, Jamarrion McCoy and Jaiden Gordon.

With Tallassee losing, 41-38, with four minutes left, Glover made the biggest shot of the night. He caught a pass in the corner and put up a 3-pointer while being fouled. His shot went straight through the net to tie the game, and his and-1 free throw gave Tallassee its first lead since the first quarter.

“At the beginning of the year, we said that Roderius could knock down some shots for us,” Mixson said.

“If someone can really step out there and shoot it, it would help us out and he’s been that guy for us the last few weeks. He kept us in the game in the first half.”

Following Glover’s free throw, it was all Tallassee.

The guard duo of Gordon and McCoy were intercepting passes left and right and

Beauregard was fouling in frustration. After a few Hornets fouled out and Tallassee knocked down its shots from the charity stripe, the Tigers walked away with the win.

The fourth quarter was a night and day difference from the first three. Tallassee’s press defense gave up some easy layups throughout the game, but that ended as soon as Grover’s shot went in. The Tigers allowed only five points in the fourth, three of which came from free throws.

“We give the crowd a lot of credit here,” Mixson said.

“They gave us a massive home court advantage and our energy was a lot better in the second half. I just think we hit a couple of shots and the crowd got into the game and the energy shifted. We started flying around and we have good guards who are quick as lightning and create turnovers.”

Tallassee's Land Bell is currently 51-0 during his junior season.

The Tigers' top wrestler is the defending 5A champion in the 132-pound class.

HENRY ZIMMER | TPI

TOP: Tallassee's Rush Wright (20) goes for a layup against Beauregard in the AHSAA Class 5A, Area 7 tournament.

ABOVE: Tallassee's Antonio Hooks shoots a 3-pointer for the Tigers.

See TRACK, Page B2

See FALLS, Page B2

HENRY ZIMMER TPI

Reeltown's Brody Smith goes up for a hard layup against Lanett's Nakia Bynum Jr.

wrestle and compete.

I’ve been around a long time and you never want to see an injury during the week of sectionals.”

Three of Tallassee’s wrestlers will be defending their sectional titles come Saturday. Senior Christian McCary (44-2) and juniors Mason Nelson (44-5) and Land Bell (51-0) all won their respective weight classes last season, and all three look to do the same this season.

Entering the week, Nelson is the No. 1-ranked wrestler in 106, while Bell is No. 1 in 144 and McCary is No. 2 in 165, behind only a wrestler in the North.

“A lot of our guys have continued to grow,” Mask said.

“They’ve got a good mindset. They’ve got a lot of dreams and goals in front of them, both individually and as a team. The first step to that is sectionals and they know that.”

There will be a big target painted on the backs of a lot of Tallassee wrestlers. Tallassee has dominated the majority of the season, and that has shown in the coaches rankings.

Alongside Bell and Nelson ranked No. 1 is Ramon Lozada in the 120 pound class. Lozada is undefeated at 37-0. He’s had plenty of success in sectionals himself and was a state qualifier last season for Wetumpka.

Overall, Tallassee has five other wrestlers ranked in the top six of its respective classes, and all are going for gold. The sectionals are all individual wrestling, so teams aren’t just playing for points in a duals match.

Everybody is going for the win.

That can cause wrestlers to try crazy moves to get a win if they find themselves down, and that could be the case when it comes to wrestling against Tallassee’s talented squad.

But Mask has his team prepared, and he’s already told them countless times that basic wrestling is what will win matches for the Tigers.

“You don’t need anything extravagant,” Mask said. “You don’t need to try to do anything different. You just need to be yourself and go out and wrestle like you have your whole life. Be confident and be aggressive and the basics win. The simplest moves win championships.”

TRACK Continued from B1

Saturday’s performance was yet another swansong for Reeltown’s incredible senior class.

While Woods and Kendrick earned top placements, senior Sandrea Coleman earned fifth overall in the shot put.

Due to roster limitations in the indoor season, senior Jaedon Brooks couldn’t compete with the team but will be yet another key senior piece for the outdoor season.

Wooten’s group of seniors are the heart and soul of Reeltown’s track team, and just set the bar incredibly high for the outdoor year.

“This is huge,” Wooten said. “Arthur, JJ Kendrick, Sandrea

Tallassee girls end season in area tournament

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

Much like it has throughout the season, Tallassee’s youth and inexperience caught up to the Tigers on Saturday afternoon. The Tallassee girls basketball team saw its season come to an end in the first round of the AHSAA Class 5A, Area 7 tournament with a road trip to Beauregard.

Beauregard beat Tallassee, 38-34, in overtime. The Tigers (16-12) went winless (0-5) against area opponents with four of the five losses coming by five points or less and two of the losses coming in overtime.

For first year coach Alfonzo Johnson, it was another game of his young team not being able to finish.

“We gave a great effort and we fixed a lot of the problems we have been having, but we just didn’t finish at the end,” Johnson said.

“We had a two-point lead with 20 seconds left and we got a bad foul that didn’t go our way. You’ll get that from

a young team filled with freshmen. When it got to overtime, we just didn’t hit our shots and missed our free throws.”

Tallassee may have missed the postseason by an overtime loss, but that doesn’t diminish the steps Johnson’s team took this season.

The Tigers feature only one senior while two freshmen, an eighth grader and a sophomore all start and play significant minutes.

Most of the same girls started a year ago, and that team won only four games. Johnson’s squad has won four times as many as that squad, and was 20 seconds away from clinching a playoff berth.

“I think we’re getting really better,” Johnson said.

“We’re young and a lot of the growing pains that you have as a ninth grader like situational basketball, we’ve gotten better at it. We’re

mentally stronger and more athletic. A lot of our girls went from middle school or rec league basketball straight to varsity. I think we’re getting used to the sport and the future is bright.”

One of the bright spots in the final stretch of games for Tallassee has been junior Sha’Niya Gray. Gray was not one of the team's top scoring options early in the year but has slowly seen her role increase with the team.

In the last two weeks, that has especially been the case.

In two non-area games against Ellwood Christian and Barbour County in late January, she scored 23 points and 15 points to be the team’s top scorer.

In Saturday’s loss, she scored a team-high 15 points.

“She’s just really stepped up for us,” Johnson said.

“When I took over the team, I was told she was a good shooter. But the biggest thing about her is that she shows up. She cares about the game and she gave us everything she had. That shows in the way she plays.”

Elmore County boys ranked in preseason poll

STAFF REPORT

TPI STAFF

The Elmore County boys soccer team is receiving high praise entering the 2024 season.

Coming off their first Final Four appearance in school history, the Panthers were ranked No. 10 in Class 5A in the AHSAA coaches’ preseason poll. They were 8-8-1 last year and reached the semifinals and won a playoff game for the first time. They also won the area championship for the first time since 2017.

Last year’s squad was very senior heavy, with All-County players such as Logan Pack, Landon Harrelson and others, but there are returners all over the field for the Panthers.

Up front is sophomore Tate McNeely who scored 14 goals and tallied nine assists last year, while other players such as Colten Lowe and Zane Davis also return.

The season began Thursday, but the Panthers don’t begin play for almost two weeks. Elmore County kicks off the season Monday, Feb. 19 with a home game against rival Holtville.

ALLS

Continued from B!

Reeltown continued to keep its foot on the pedal until about midway through the third quarter. Lanett got hot, and Reeltown could not stop the Panthers from connecting on the outside.

Late in the fourth, Finn Henderson had to hit a three to get Reeltown back in the game, before Blake Smith hit an acrobatic layup to tie the game at 56 apiece.

With about 14 seconds to play, Lanett got set up on offense and drilled a 3-pointer. Having only about seven seconds to work with, Reeltown couldn’t get its final shot to go, and the season was suddenly over.

“They had a kid get hot and we were

Coleman, they are three main ones. We try to build around them. Jaedon Brooks is another one. That is another senior that has been with me from the beginning. We are going to continue to build around them for the outdoor season.” Kendrick competed in the most events in the group, also finishing 15th in the 400 and sixth in the triple jump. Wooten has seen tremendous growth in his senior star, who just recently picked up a track offer from Eastern University.

“I am really proud of JJ,” Wooten said. “He has really worked hard these last two years on his technique and it is really paying off.”

The byproduct of having tremendous upper class athletes is that younger athletes want to

struggling to get out on him,” Rebel coach Jonathan Gardner said. “We were struggling to get out on him. He hit some big shots.”

The player in question was guard Eddie Mitchell, who hit the dagger triple to end Reeltown’s season. Even still, the fact that the Rebels put themselves in a position to be the area’s No. 2 seed is a testament to the program.

Reeltown had to start its season extremely late due to a long playoff run in football. By season's end, the team finished 8-5.

“I couldn’t have done this without my assistant coaches,” Gardner said. “They helped me out so much. They gave me two sets of extra eyes. They came up with game plans every night. I couldn’t have done it without them.”

Reeltown will lose three seniors from this year’s team in Blake Smith, Jake

replicate them. Wooten already has almost 50 athletes signed up for the outdoor track season, well above the 30 or so on the indoor team.

“A lot of those kids are young and seeing what is going on and seeing this success,” Wooten said. “They are seeing a place where they can go out and find a spot that gives them an opportunity to be successful.”

Most of the indoor team’s roster was tenth grade to middle school. The indoor season for those athletes was used mainly as a tune-up for outdoor competition. Still, the senior group showed the young runners the ropes when they could, and hopefully have inspired some winning come springtime.

“Those older guys are helping out by showing all of them

Hornsby and Zach Riley.

Hornsby finished with a single 3-point make while Smith’s only make was the game-tying layup.

Smith was playing in his first game back from shoulder surgery, playing in his first game in a shoulder compression sleeve and was even a bit late to the game due to being medically cleared just a few hours prior to tip.

“He got cleared and that was so big for him,” Gardner said.

Reeltown will return much of its core in guys like Brown, Tae Martin and Jamarkius Smith. Next season, Gardner and his team are going to be out for vengeance.

“We gave it a fight, that's all I can ask,” Gardner said. “Reeltown basketball, we are coming.”

the ropes,” Wooten said. “It is really paying off for us.”

Reeltown needs the added bodies if it is to try and win a blue map instead of a red one.

State champion Cold Springs won the championship Saturday and won both indoor and outdoor titles last year. Cold Springs simply has more athletes than Reeltown, and competes in events like pole vault, which the Rebels don’t.

With the added kids for spring, Reeltown now has a serious chance to try and take the state title from the Eagles. The Rebels don’t need everyone to win, but rather just more cumulative points.

When Wooten took over the track and field program, he admitted he never saw the meteoric rise coming. After Saturday’s success, and the influx of new track talent, it is hard not to look forward and be excited where his program is headed.

“Obviously I am pleased with how we are progressing, but it is a little bit surprising that things are growing as fast as they are,” Wooten said. “All of them have a chance to have a really big outdoor season.”

“They know it is a tall task,” Wooten said. “We will see Cold Springs again. We know they will score points where we can’t. So we have to find ways in other events to make up those points and be able to ultimately try and pass them. Right now, that is what we are preaching. We need a volume of people and need to chip away at those schools that have more athletes than us.”

Tallassee's Shaniya Gray led the Tigers with 15 points against Beauregard.

FILE | TPI

Elmore County’s Tate McNeely dribbles over a defender last season. McNeely and the Panthers enter the 2024 season as the No. 10-ranked preseason team in Class 5A.

Elmore County girls down Holtville in area tourney

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

Emily Mason could be held scoreless for only so long.

Holtville had a game plan to not let the Elmore County sharpshooter beat the Bulldogs, and that game plan was partially working for a half. Mason was held scoreless, but the Panthers still led by 10 points at the break. That lead was cut to eight to begin the second half, but then Mason hit her first shot.

Then she hit another. By then, the lead was too much to overcome.

Elmore County beat Holtville, 53-36, in the first round of the AHSAA Class 5A, Area 6 tournament. The Panthers now advance to face Marbury for the area championship Wednesday, while Holtville was eliminated with the loss.

“We talked at halftime about the fact that we’ve come out sluggish in the third quarter a lot lately,” Elmore County coach Kyle Caldwell said. “We really wanted to win the third quarter and we made some

big shots tonight. Emily had a really explosive third quarter and that extended the lead for us.”

With Mason held scoreless in the second half, two of the team’s younger starters stepped up instead. Freshman Lalah Culpepper scored 10 of her team-high 16 points in the second quarter while sophomore Cherish Foye added five, then scored eight more in the second half.

Senior guard Kyasia Brown, the team’s second leading scorer, had nine points before she fouled out early in the third quarter.

But with Mason pushing the lead out to 19 points, the Panthers were just fine with Brown resting the remainder of the game.

“Our players saw the confidence that Emily brought to the floor and really stepped up their games as well,” Caldwell said. “I’m really proud of them. Lalah and Cherish both bring us a lot of athleticism and relentless effort and they’ve been big for us.”

For Elmore County, the Panthers are now back in the

postseason after being eliminated in this exact game by Holtville a year ago.

Caldwell knew just how important it was to get this team back to the playoffs in his first season, so that’s what his team has worked on. After starting 0-3 in area play, that dream looked tough to accomplish. But then Elmore County beat Holtville

in the last matchup, 32-22. That helped spark some confidence in the team and that turned into the 17-point win Monday night. Now the Panthers turn their sights to Marbury in the area championship at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday. Marbury has handled Elmore County by 25 and 24 points the last two times the teams met. Regardless of how Wednesday’s game goes, the Panthers have already secured a sub regionals berth.

“They didn’t make it last year but we were a playoff team the two years prior,” Caldwell said. “So we’re getting back there and the girls are really starting to believe they can get back there. It’s big for the program.”

Wetumpka’s Holley scores twice in season opener

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

Hockey Hall of Famer

Wayne Gretzky was once quoted saying “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.”

For Wetumpka senior Austin Holley, it can be revised to say “You make 100% of the shots you do take.” Holley, who starts at forward for the Indians soccer team, led Wetumpka to a 2-1 win over Opelika in the season opener Thursday.

In the win, Holley took two shots and connected both of them to the back of the net. He knocked in a header early in the second half to put the Indians up, 1-0, then followed that up with a short goal just five minutes later.

For his efficiency in shooting the ball, Holley has been named the Elmore County Player of the Week.

“Obviously scoring two

goals in the first game is fantastic,” Indians coach Stephen Horn. “He took two shots and scored both times. So we need him to take more shots going forward. Even if they don’t go in, we don’t care. When he shoots and touches the ball, good things happen.”

The game was deadlocked at 0-0 at halftime when the senior duo of Holley and Brody Worrell took over. Not even four minutes

into the second half, Holley was wide open in front of the goal when Worrell, playing midfield, shot a pass that Holley was able to hit with his head for an untouched goal.

Five minutes later, the duo struck again. This goal was not through the air, however, as Worrell was able to get a through pass to Holley past Opelika’s defense. Close to the goal, his second shot found the back of the net just as easily

4 Holtville at Childersburg, 5:30 p.m.

Friday, Feb. 9 High School Basketball

4 AISA State Championship at Multiplex at Cramton Bowl

4 (G) Edgewood/Southern winner vs. Chambers/Sparta winner, 1 p.m.

4 (B) Edgewood/Hooper winner vs. Abbeville/Patrician winner, 3 p.m.

High School Soccer

4 Tallassee, Wetumpka at Capital of Dreams Tournament, TBD

4 (G) Stanhope Elmore at Captial of Dreams Tournament, TBD

4 (B) Stanhope Elmore at Lakeshore Shootout, TBD

High School Wrestling

(G) Stanhope Elmore at Smiths Station, 7 p.m.

4 (G) Wetumpka at Brewbaker Tech, 5 p.m.

4 Wetumpka, Stanhope Elmore, Elmore County,Tallassee, Holtville at

AHSAA South Super Section Tournament at Garrett Coliseum, 10 a.m.

as the first and Wetumpka led, 2-0.

“Those guys are inseparable,” Horn said. “They’re always together and they’ve played together for five years. They’re a perfect duo. Brody controls the midfield and Austin is the guy who finishes. It's a great combination.”

Holley will likely continue to be the recipient of most of Worrell’s passes this season. Holley was an All-County player a year ago after scoring 21 goals, second best on the team.

But now that Angel Martinez, the team’s leading scorer from a year ago, is going to miss the entire season due to injury, the Indians are relying on Holley to net as many goals as he can.

He’s already proven that he can, and he’s gotten better at scoring each season.

During his sophomore season, Holley scored only eight goals in 22 games, good for a goal basically once every three games.

Last year, he averaged 1.1 goals per game while also adding nine assists.

Now just one game into his senior year, Holley is averaging two goals per game.

“Austin always finds himself in the right position,” Horn said. “A lot of

Saturday, Feb. 10

High School Soccer

4 Tallassee, Wetumpka at Capital of Dreams Tournament, TBD

4 (G) Stanhope Elmore at Captial of Dreams Tournament, TBD

4 (B) Stanhope Elmore at Lakeshore Shootout, TBD

High School Wrestling

4 Wetumpka, Stanhope Elmore, Elmore County,Tallassee, Holtville at AHSAA South Super Section Tournament at Garrett Coliseum, 9:30 a.m.

Monday, Feb. 12

High School Soccer

4 (B) Wetumpka at Tuscaloosa Academy, 7 p.m. Tallassee at Valley, 4:30 p.m.

Tuesday, Feb. 13

High School Soccer

4 Hewitt Trussville at Stanhope Elmore, 5:30 p.m.

4 Holtville at Booker T. Washington, 5:30 p.m.

DALTON MIDDLETON | TPI

Elmore County’s Emily Mason (23) scored nine points in the second half to push the Panthers past Holtville and into the area tournament championship.

Lake River & Classi eds

AlaScans

p Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today. 20% off Entire Purchase. Plus 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-833-683-2005

Prepare for power outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 7-Year warranty with qualifying purchase* Call 1-877-323-5516 today to schedule a free quote. power move.

Safe Step. North America's #1 Walk-In Tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-theline installation and service. Now featuring our FREE shower package and $1600 Off for a limited time! Call today! Financing available. Call Safe Step 1-844-871-6175

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

Replace your roof with the best looking and longest lasting material - steel from Erie Metal Roofs! Three styles and multiple colors available. Guaranteed to last a lifetime! Limited Time Offer - up to 50% off installation + Additional 10% off install (for military, health workers & 1st responders.) Call Erie Metal Roofs: 1-833-955-3163

AUTOMOTIVE SUPPORT THE BLIND!

Donate a car to the American Council of the Blind. FAST FREE PICKUP. 24-hour response. Running or not. maximum tax deduction and no emission test required! Call 24/7: 844-601-1342.

Public Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE INVITATION TO BID

The Town of Eclectic will be accepting sealed bids for the removal, refurbishing and construction of sidewalks in various locations in town. Sealed bids must be received by the Town of Eclectic, 145 Main Street, Eclectic, AL 36024 until 2:00 pm central time, Thursday, March 21, 2024. No bids will be received after the time set forth herein. All proposals will be publicly opened and read aloud the day of the deadline, in the Municipal Court room. The project consists of the furnishing, all labor, tools, materials, equipment and removal of the old sidewalks as necessary. Individual sidewalks replaced or repaired must be matched to the existing size and dimensions. Following is a listing of the approximate locations to be repaired or replaced. A mandatory site visit with the mayor is required to bid the project.

Public Notices

py sealed proposal. Performance and statutory labor and material payment bonds will be required at the signing of the Contract. All bidders bidding in amounts exceeding that established by the State Licensing Board for General Contractors must be licensed under the provisions of Title 34, Chapter 8, Code of evidence of license before bidding or bid will not be received or considered by the Architect. All bidders shall show such evidence by clearly displaying their current license number on the outside of the sealed envelope in which the proposal is delivered. PDFs of the project can be reviewed by going to the McKee website @ www.mckeeassoc. com and selecting “Project Bid List”. Also, if you are not receiving NOTIFICATIONS from us, please

Notices

Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & Military Discounts available. Call: 833-449-1307.

BECOME A PUBLISHED AUTHOR! We edit, print and distribute your work internationally. We do the work… You reap the Rewards! Call for a FREE Author’s Submission Kit: 888-283-4780

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

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

YOU MAY QUALIFY for are between 52-63 years old and under a doctor’s care for a health condition that prevents you from working for a year or more. Call now! 1-877-771-6882

EDUCATION

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

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

ATTENTION: VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS! A cheaper alternative to high drugstore prices! 50 Pill Special - $99 + FREE Shipping! 100% guaranteed. CALL NOW: 866-505-0828. FOR SALE DirecTV Satellite TV Service Starting at $59.99/month! Free Installation! 160+ channels available. Call Now to Get the Most Sports & Entertainment on TV! 844-594-7108

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

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

INSURANCE from $29 month Free 2-minute Quote! We Compare all Insurance providers offers for you! Lowest Rates! Call Now 866-450-0943 VEHICLE TITLE Problems? We have a solution! Call Jason Steward Enterprises, We’re Alabama’s #1 Vehicle Title Problem Experts! Free telephone consultation. North AL 1-256-850-0527, Central AL 1-205-267-5735, South AL 1-251-342-8538.

Public Notices

Public Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE

C&M is having an auction

Feb.15,2024 @ 104 Caldwell St. Tallassee Al. 36078 for a 2009 dark blue Chevrolet Malibu Vin# 1G1ZH57B49F226159

Tallassee Tribune: Jan. 31 and Feb. 7, 2024 AV/09 CHEVROLET

PUBLIC NOTICE

C&M is having an auction Feb.28,2024@ 104 Caldwell St. Tallassee Al. 36078 for a 2010 White Chrysler Town & Country Vin# 2A4RR4DE8AR214388

Tallassee Tribune: Jan. 31 and Feb. 7, 2024 AV/10 CHRYSLER

PUBLIC NOTICE

In cooperation with the City of Tallassee, Alabama the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), has prepared a Tier 2 Environmental Assessment (EA), as required by the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, for the proposed replacement of a total of 17.7 miles of cast iron mains and all bare steel service lines that were installed in the 1940s and 1950s. PHMSA published a Tier 1 Nationwide EA for the Natural Gas Distribution Infrastructure Safety and Modernization Grant Program (NGDISM) on November 9, 2022. The stated purpose of NGDISM is for municipality or community owned utilities to repair, rehabilitate, or replace its natural gas distribution pipeline system or portions thereof or to acquire equipment to (1) reduce incidents and fatalities and (2) avoid economic losses by providing grant opportunities to municipality or community owned utilities. The Tier 1 EA is available at https://www. phmsa.dot.gov/sites/phmsa. dot.gov/files/2023-07/Tier1-PHMSA-2022-0123-0001. pdf. The Tier 2 EA is available for review and comment on the web at https://www. phmsa.dot.gov/about-phmsa/ working-phmsa/grants/ pipeline/tier-2-site-specificenvironmental-documents and a copy is available at City Hall in Tallassee. Please submit all comments to: PHMSABILGrantNEPAComments@dot.gov and reference NGDISM-FY22EA-2023-17 in your response. Pursuant to the National Historic Preservation Act, PHMSA hasing which is available for review in the Tier 2 EA. Comments on the Tier 2 EA are due by March 8, 2024.

Tallassee Tribune: Feb. 7, 2024 NOTICE

right to waive any informality or to reject any or all bids. The Town reserves the right to select the lowest legal Bid deemed in the best interest of the Town. A responsive bid shall be evidenced by: (1) a proposal form not evidencing any apparent unbalanced pricing for performance of the items of work; (2) a proposal without excisions,tions made by the Bidder; (3) Each bidder must provide a current Contractors License with appropriate specialties from the State of Alabama; (4) Be able to provide a Performance Bond in an amount equal to 100% of the contract price, guaranteeing faithful performance of the contract and payment of all persons supplying labor and/or materials for the construction of the project. All bidders must have a current Contractors License from the State of Alabama. Each bidder shall be responsible for knowledge of and compliance with the Alabama Public Works bid law, Alabama Code Section 391-1, et seq. Bids will be received from experienced contractors who have successfully completed projects of similar scope. Each bid must be submitted in a sealed envelope bearing on the outside the name of the bidder, his address, the name of the project for which the bid is submitted, and the bidder’s Alabama Contractor’s License Number. If forwarded by mail, the sealed envelope containing the bid must be enclosed in another envelope addressedtaining bids must be addressed as follows, and delivered to Ms. Shannon Duck, Town Clerk, Town of Eclectic, 145 Main Street, Eclectic, Alabama 36024 and marked “Bid For 2024 Sidewalk Improvements or Repairs”. No bidder may withdraw his bid within 30 days after the actual date of the opening thereof.

Tallassee Tribune: Feb. 7 and 14, 2024 BIDS

PUBLIC NOTICE

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS BAND ROOM RENOVATIONS TO TALLASSEE HIGH SCHOOL FOR TALLASSEE CITY SCHOOLS

TALLASSEE, ALABAMA

MCKEE PROJECT NO. 22.221

Sealed proposals for this project shall be received by Dr. Brock Nolin at Tallassee City Board of Education, 308 King Street, Tallassee, AL 36078; Phone: 334283-6864, until 2:00 P.M. Central Time, Thursday, February 8, 2024, then opened and read aloud. This project shall be bid excluding taxes. Bids must be submitted on proposal forms furnished by the Architect or copies thereof. No bid may be withdrawn after scheduled closing for receipt of bids for a period of ninety (90) days. The Owner reserves the right to reject any or all proposals and to waive technical errors if, in the Owners judgment, the best interests of the Owner will thereby be promoted. payable to Tallassee City Schools in an amount not less amount of the bid, but in no event more than $10,000.00 must accompany each bidder’s

ECHS’ MASON WINS COUNTY REPUBLICAN

SCHOLARSHIP

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

It didn’t take long for Elmore County High School senior Emily Mason to decide what to write about for her essay for a local scholarship.

Being a female athlete and having the opportunity to express her opinion, Mason chose to write against allowing transgender athletes competing in female only sports.

“As a female athlete it really clicked that I needed to say something about it,” Mason said. “It was interesting for me to research.”

Mason’s essay helped her win the Elmore County Republican Party Scholarship, which was announced at a dinner Thursday.

Mason is a basketball and track athlete. She found it unfair former University of Pennsylvania swimmer Lia Thomas who transitioned to a woman through hormone therapy was allowed to compete as a woman a year later in the NCAA Women’s Swimming Championship in 2022.

“[Thomas] had an unfair advantage,” Mason said.

University of Kentucky swimmer Riley Gaines was eventually awarded a medal by the NCAA for efforts in the championship. She lost a spot on the initial awards stand because the NCAA allowed Thomas to compete as a woman.

Mason’s essay is part of what made her application stand above second-place

winner Lucas Luster of ECHS and third-place winner Rhett Pinkston of Wetumpka.

“It is our biggest and most important event,” Elmore County Republican Party chair Judge Bill Lewis said.

“We are pouring back into the kids in our county.”

Lewis said the dinner and scholarship were set up because of a big discrepancy in what kids know and what they should know. He remembered as a child asking his five brothers and sisters what the Fourth of July was about.

“None of them could tell me what the purpose of the Fourth of July was,” Lewis said.

He thought he and his siblings were just dumb kids.

“Come to find out a lot of kids can not identify what the holidays mean; they can’t identify our elected officials; they can’t identify our president or vice president,” Lewis said. “We have an obligation as a community to make sure our kids are learning about the government that is here to protect them.”

The Elmore County Republican Party scholarship is organized a little differently than most according to scholarship committee chair Karen Stewart.

“You don’t just fill out paperwork and send it in then the one with the highest GPA or ACT often wins,” Stewart said. “We require them to write an essay. The topic of the essay is pick one political event from 2023 that you liked or disliked, what would

you change about it and why.”

Mason said the Elmore County Republican Party Scholarship was different from other scholarships she has applied for.

“The essay let me put more of my opinion into it,” Mason said. “A lot of essays for scholarships you just write about yourself. This one let me write about somebody else. It was fun to do the research on it and also still have an opinion on it.” Applicants are also interviewed by the scholarship committee.

Mason plans to go to Auburn University Montgomery and major in biology. She wants to work in forensic sciences.

Alabama District 6 Congressman Gary Palmer spoke at the dinner. He gave an update on issues in Washington D.C. but also addressed the students..

Palmer said he was in 11th grade when WWII veteran and science teacher David Thomas spoke to him.

“‘Gary, you should go to college,’” Palmer said the teacher told him. “Nobody had ever said that to me

before. It made all the difference in the world.”

Palmer said students in Elmore County have similar role models in Lewis and others at the dinner.

“There is a lot of wisdom here,” Palmer said. The congressman suggested reading history and biographies to the students and those at the dinner.

“Smart people learn from their mistakes,” Palmer said. “Brilliant people learn from other people’s mistakes. Learn how people overcame adversity and disappointment.”

Elmore County’s Bennett signs with Faulkner fishing

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

Matthew Bennett is ready to fish around the country.

Bennett, an Elmore County senior, signed his National Letter of Intent to fish at the college level with Faulkner University. Bennett has enjoyed fishing all of his life, but really got into the sport competitively when he was around 14 when Elmore County started a program.

Four years later, and he’s ready to show what he can do at the college level.

“It really means a lot to me to sign and go fishing at the college level,” Bennett said. “I haven’t been doing it that long, but I’m really glad to get the opportunity to fish against guys at the college level.”

Bennett began talking to Faulkner fishing coach John Pollard probably six or seven months ago, and the two hit it off.

After some interest, Bennett and his family were offered an official visit and were given an offer at the end of the tour.

“Really the main thing

we look for in these guys and girls that we recruit, obviously their fishing ability and the success they’ve had on the water, but also academics and Matthew really excelled at academics,” Pollard said.

Bennett is part of a massive signing class for the Faulkner team that includes fishermen from Wetumpka, Horseshoe Bend, Tallassee, Benjamin Russell and Holtville among others.

So Bennett will have the pleasure of knowing, or at least knowing of, most of the other freshmen that he will be joining the team with. That played a role in his signing, but so did the short distance to home.

“I wanted to get away from the house for college, but I thought about it and if I really need something, I want to be able to come back and not have to drive eight or nine hours just to get home and see my family,” Bennett said. “So that played a pretty big factor.”

The Elmore County fishing team recently wrapped up a success-

ful fall season where the Panthers fished on many of the surrounding lakes. In the Three-River Throwdown, Bennett was able to fish on Lake Jordan, Lake Martin and Lay Lake.

He loves fishing on

the lakes he knows, but he is certainly excited about getting to the college level and fishing across not only the Southeast but the entire country.

Faulkner’s fishing team recently wrapped

up a trip in south Florida, and the Eagles were also recently in Georgia and the Carolinas.

“They pretty much go all over the country and fish in their tournaments,” Bennett said. “Fishing around here is

great because it’s home and you know the lakes, but going out to new lakes will be a great experience. You get to see all these different lakes and catch some different fish. It’s a nice change of scenery.”

Elmore County’s Matthew Bennett, right, is pictured with Faulkner fishing coach John Pollard. Bennett signed

National Letter of Intent to fish with Faulkner University.

CLIFF WILLIAMS TPI

TOP: Elmore County Republican Party chair Bill Lewis, left, poses with Elmore County High School senior Emily Mason, Congressman Gary Palmer and Karen Stewart. Mason was announced as the winner of the Elmore County Republican Party Scholarship at a dinner Thursday. ABOVE: Elmore County Commission chair Bart Mercer, left, shakes hands with Congressman Gary Palmer at the Elmore County Republican Party Annual Scholarship Dinner.

GWIN Managing Editor

IArts & Entertainment

n case you didn’t know, I’m a huge Gilm ore Girls fan. Such a big fan in fact, I have a quote from the show tattooed on my arm. I’ve always wanted to live in Stars Hollow, a fictional town in Connecticut where the show is set, with all its festivals and characters.

Little did I know when I moved to Central Alabama, I was moving to my own little Stars Hollow.

At Tallapoosa Publishers Inc., we cover a three-county region in Tallapoosa, Coosa and Elmore counties and there are little Stars Hol lows sprinkled throughout. Right now, we’re in midst of the Valentine’s Day season and our towns have shown up and showed out, especially for Galentine’s. I got a chance to attend the Galentine’s celebration at Clarabelle Co. in Holtville, and it was so cute. What a fun way to celebrate a lesser known holiday. I was so impressed with the mobile bouquet bar and the balloon archway. Plus, the candle I bought is making my office so peaceful.

In Alexander City, the perfect Valentine’s Date is planned right in the heart of downtown. Scent Wizards and Lake Martin Brewing are teaming up to create a date where couples can create their own wax melt then head over for a romantic three-course dinner.

The Lake Martin Area Dadeville Chamber of Commerce has also changed its November Denim and Diamonds fundraiser to a Valentine Charity Ball, which will take place Saturday. Skip the lines and enjoy a Valentine’s Day date

YEAR-ROUND JOB

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

It’s a year-round job to make for a great Mardi Gras.

The Order of Cimarron will celebrate with a festival and parade in Wetumpka Saturday. But members won’t rest long before looking to next year’s festivities, according to Order of Cimarron Vice President and Parade Chair Craig Bell.

“We will start planning a month from now,” Bell said. “We will have a talk about what went well, what we want to do again, what we need to do differently.”

If these beads could talk

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

Take notice when Marilyn Win-

born has her African Killer Beads booth set up.

The beads are precious and never a killer, but they always have a story.

Winborn has a collection of glass beads she has collected over the years, most with a lineage to Africa.

“When I was in college, the African students, you would see them

In the meantime, dates for the annual ball must be scheduled to reserve a spot at the Wetumpka Civic Center. The real work begins in May at an all-member meeting. New members of the group are nominated and voted on.

“We talk about big plans and changes for next year,” Bell said. “From there on we are rolling.”

In October, the Order of Cimarron selects a queen who is responsible for deciding on a theme for the ball. The theme

is typically decided a week after the queen is selected.

“The ladies have multiple meetings, getting together in the evenings to build decorations,” Bell said. “They put a ton of work into it.”

The new queen makes sure the ball has the proper refreshments and the set up is the way she wants it. Once a theme is decided, the queen and the rest of the planning committee must decide on a band.

“It is a big undertaking,” Bell said. “There is no way just the queen can do it; it is her ideas that are put into place by a group of 10 to 12 members.”

The Order of Cimarron has about 60 members. Bell said the group is great for creating friendships beyond the ball and parade.

“I’m not from Wetumpka,” Bell said. “Being a member of this, I’ve probably met half the town. My kids hate when we go anywhere because I’ll meet someone I know. It’s opened my world to a whole group of friends I didn’t grow up with.”

The Order of Cimarron started a few years after the Krewe of Toulouse stopped hosting a yearly Mardi Gras Ball. A few

members wanted to still celebrate, so they started the Order of Cimarron. They created a parade and worked with the City of Wetumpka to be able to close the streets and use Gold Star Park for a festival and vendors.

“We couldn’t do it without the city,” Bell said. Bell has been in charge of the Order of Cimarron parade for a few years, so he is still helping this year even though he will not be able to attend. Bell is handing over the parade to Christi Thornton and Bethany Hogan who have been there every step of the way.

This year’s festival begins at 9 a.m. in Gold Star Park. It will have about 100 vendors.

The parade starts at 1 p.m. and will start at the Farmer’s Market, cross the Bibb Graves Bridge and come through downtown Wetumpka.

“We normally have 50 to 60 entrants, but one entrant could be 20 Corvettes or 40 Jeeps like we had last year,” Bell said. “Last year there were an estimated 20,000 here for it. That is pretty amazing for a town of 7,200. We hope there are more this year.”

Elmore County artist uses decades old glass beads in jewelry

with these beads on,” Winborn said. “They would sell them. They were inexpensive. That is how they ate.”

At the time most of what Winborn saw was glass beads traded to the ancestors of the students she was buying them. Some of the beads are not native to Africa; Europeans would bring the glass beads to trade for spices, silver and gold. Tribal leaders would end up with the best ones. Others would end up being currency.

Winborn has a treasured collec-

tion of strands of beads, some from the Dead Seas, Russian Blues and more. Others are mixed.

“You can tell how old they are by the knicks and dents and chips and wear in them,” Winborn said.

Winborn has found beads in travels around the world. She has them from Africa, Egypt, Amsterdam, Paris, the Caribbean and Brazil. In some cases Winborn hangs onto the strands, but in other cases she

See BEADS, Page C4

Marnie

By MELODY RATHEL Multimedia Writer

dance lessons.

Marnie Mattei, a multi-award winning country dance instructor, led lessons alongside Rick Moore. The two started off the night with lessons in line dancing and ended with the Texas Two-Step.

For the line dancing portion of the night, participants learned a basic line dancing routine to the song “Heads Carolina, Tails California,” by Jo Dee Messina.

No partner was necessary for this portion of the night. During the Texas Two-Step portion of the night, participants grabbed a partner while Mattei and Moore explained the first part of the dance.

In order to master the Texas Two-Step, participants must first master walking in conjunction with their partner to the beat of the music. After Mattei and Moore demonstrated the walk, participants began practicing the walk with their partners.

Once participants became familiar with this part, Mattei and Moore felt ready to teach them how to properly turn their partner. Mattei and Moore showed participants how to correctly place their hands on their partner’s to create a flow between both participants.

Once participants got into the swing of things, they practiced to slow music, advancing to faster-paced songs.

Guests enjoyed watching dance lessons while enjoying their in-house brewed Winter Blonde craft beer.

Lake Martin Brewing Company holds dance lessons on the first Saturday of every month at a cost of $10 per person.

Every Thursday, Lake Martin Brewing Company hosts a casino night. Guests can play blackjack, roulette or craps, and all proceeds benefit Mainstreet Alexander City.

For Valentine’s Day, Lake Martin Brewing Company is teaming up with Scent Wizards for what they’re calling the perfectly crafted date night. On Feb. 10 or 14, couples can have a hassle-free date night experience for one price.

For $110 per couple, the night will begin at Scent Wizards where couples can create a custom wax melt, and take home a warmer at no extra charge. Then couples can make their way to Lake Martin Brewing Company where they can choose from a selection of appetizers, get a pizza of their choice and receive a special beer flight with a chocolate pairing.

The package includes three drinks per person, and it includes in-house brews, beer bottles or wine. Reservations are required by Feb. 6.

With Super Bowl LVIII coming up, both all fans have the opportunity to enjoy unlimited food and beverages during the game. For $55 per person, guests have access to unlimited pizza, beer cheese nachos and pretzel bites and unlimited Lake Martin Brewing Company draft beer, bottled beer or wine. The package also includes one prepaid Super Bowl square.

The event will begin at 5 p.m. on Sunday Feb. 11, and unlimited drinks and food begins at kickoff.

Martini on the mind

By HENRY ZIMMER Sports Editor, Tallapoosa County

No matter the flavor of drink, the 1909 Bar has you covered. Atop the Coosa Cleaver, looking out on the downtown cityscape of Wetumpka, drink lovers can find all sorts of handcrafted cocktails to enjoy.

The strawberry lemonade martini was recommended by bartender Phoenix and it did not disappoint. Garnished with a fresh strawberry

1220 Café

A burger for sausage lovers

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor, Elmore County

If you’re ever in the mood for some Conecuh sausage, I have found the perfect burger for you. I checked out 1220 Café for the first time this week, and I couldn’t help but get a burger named after the restaurant. I chose the 1220 Burger, which is an 8-ounce patty served with Conecuh sausage, bacon, a fried egg, cheddar cheese and sriracha sauce all on a brioche bun.

The burger costs a pretty penny at $16.29, but you get enough bang for your buck. The burger came with a knife in the middle and could easily be split into two meals. It also

came with your choice of one side, in which case I chose seasoned fries.

The Conecuh sausage was the star of the show, and that’s for good reason. It was delicious, and there was at least one piece of sausage in every bite. All in all, there were roughly 10-12 pieces of sausage just on my burger alone. For my trip, I was given a burger with no bacon. I ordered bacon, but it was not on the burger when I ate it. Thankfully, there was enough sausage to make up for the error.

You also get to order your egg however you’d like it cooked, and I ordered mine over easy. I like to have my yolk runny, but it did not come that way. It was more over

slice and a cut of lemon, the strawberry lemonade martini brought me back to the warm summer months.

Made with Deep Eddy’s vodka, the cocktail was equal parts savory as it was sweet. The vodka was not overpowered by the mix nor was the mix too strong for the alcohol. There are also numerous flavor combinations for those who don’t choose to go the strawberry route.

As with any lemonade flavored drink, there is plenty of sugar

that does linger on the palate. But on a chilly afternoon, taking a sip from your flavorful cocktail makes all the cold melt away. Your martini can be paired with another drink along the menu, or a delicious dish of mahi mahi, a flatbread or brisket mac and cheese. Do not be afraid of the cocktail’s bright pink hue as flavor knows no gender. A solid drink goes down all the same, and this drink went down just fine.

medium, but that was fine.

With how much sriracha sauce was on my burger, I think the runny yolk would have made the burger a little too wet. So the egg cooked wrong was likely a positive in this situation. The cheese was melted to perfection on top of the burger, and the sriracha sauce made for a perfect balance to the sausage and burger.

My side of fries were great as well, cooked exactly how I liked with just the right amount of crunch. I didn’t get any “bottom of the bag” fries, as I like to call them. All of my fries were perfectly sized.

By ABIGAIL MURPHY Multimedia Reporter

Each spring, Zazu’s Verandah brings live music to the Dadeville Square with pop up music events throughout the rest of the year.

Last month, Zazu’s Verandah hosted Two Crows for Comfort. The two are from Manitoba, Canada, and they travel in their 18-foot camper with their dog Elliot to play music around North America. Two Crows for Comfort brought a folk inspired sound to Dadeville and recently released a new album this year called Next To Me, Vol. 1.

Soon Zazu’s will have more artists coming in for the fifth season of Music in the Air on the Dadeville Square. This music series originally started in 2020 as a way for people to enjoy live music while socially distanced during the pandemic.

Zazu’s didn’t expect the music series to go beyond that first year but come 2021 the community and musicians were asking for more. Over the years and with the help of the Lake Martin Songwriters Festival each July, during which Zazu’s Verandah is a host venue, more and more regional artists are recognizing Lake Martin as a place to perform.

Zazu’s Music on the Square is held on Thursday nights and the venue has seen weekend visitors coming on Thursdays rather than Fridays so they can stop by for the music.

Zazu’s also started partnering with Me Mama’ Grub Hub food truck so people can enjoy food and drinks while listening.

forward to Thursday night,” co-owner Mitzy Hidding said in a previous TPI interview. “We wanted to bring something to Dadeville that people could look forward to.” As Zazu’s prepares for Music in the Air on the Dadeville Square, take a look at its Facebook page and website for updates on this year’s full schedule. Zazu’s brings Thursday night music to

as part of its free live music

“I think that the community really looks

HENRY ZIMMER | TPI

This martini is one of the signature drinks at 1909 Bar above Coosa Cleaver in downtown Wetumpka.

DALTON MIDDLETON TPI

The 1220 Burger is an 8 oz patty served with Conecuh sausage, bacon, a fried egg, cheddar cheese and siracha sauce on a brioche bun. It was served with a side of seasoned fries.

ABIGAIL MURPHY TPI

Despite the stormy weather, many gather inside Zazu's listening room for a Thursday evening of free live music on the square.

ABIGAIL MURPHY TPI

Two Crows for Comfort plays at Zazu's on Jan. 25

events.

DPAC welcomes in professionals, beginners alike

By ABIGAIL MURPHY Multimedia Reporter

The Dadeville Performing Arts Center is well-known for its kids’ arts classes, but the center also offers a space for adults to enjoy music and the arts as well.

The center currently has four groups for adults to engage in music. There is the Lake Martin Dulcimer Club, which meets at 1:30 p.m. Thursdays, Dadeville Community Chorus rehearses at 7 p.m. Tuesdays, the Handbell Ensemble is at 7 p.m. Mondays and the Advanced Handbell Ensemble is at 3:15 p.m. Thursdays.

These groups also do performances on a quarterly basis as a form of outreach to the community. The Dadeville Community Chorus is performing a Valentine’s Pops Concert at 7 p.m. Feb. 13 with love songs from the 1930s through the 80s.

For the spring term, DPAC is offering classes for adults and kids such as beginning Mountain Dulcimer classes at 4:30 p.m. Mondays and Exploring Music Together at 4:30 p.m. Tuesdays.

Founder Kim Walls said the center is an authentic learning experience for adults and a wonderful way to keep your brain sharp. Walls said the center is also always looking for adults to volunteer and teach arts classes for kids.

“We want to see all ages involved and all types of music,” she said. Joyce Gooden is one of the volunteers, a dulcimer club member and community chorus member. She used to be a dance teacher and she now instructs line dancing for some of the kids’ classes.

“Personally, it’s just a new life for me,” she said. “It’s doing something I have always loved and now I have opportunities to learn an instru-

ment, be in a community chorus with a beautiful four-part harmony and it’s just opened a whole new world for me.”

Not only does the center offer classes and musical groups but also hosts performances.

Michael Mason is performing a gentle guitar concert with songs such as Spanish Harlem, Killing Me Softly, Greenfields and Danny Boy.

This is part of the center’s lecture concert series and will be performed at 7 p.m. March 2. Walls said the center is always open for musicians in the area to perform a concert.

Along with these concerts, the center has also had musical artists The Bev as well as Tom’s Foolery Improv Troupe come in the past with return performances planned for later this year.

More information about DPAC can be found on its Facebook page and website.

SUBMITTED TPI

from Monty Python beginning Feb. 15. The comedy is back on the stage in Wetumpka after it was canceled in the summer of 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

‘It’s

back’

Depot Players to present Monty Python’s Spamalot

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

The Wetumpka Depot Players were all set for Spamalot in the summer of 2020.

They had done the homework, gotten the rights to put the show on a Wetumpka stage and had it scheduled.

However, the COVID19 pandemic led to a shutdown of all events, including Spamalot.

Three years later and rehearsals are almost finished as the first performance is Feb. 15.

“We are extremely happy to get back to Spamalot,” Wetumpka Depot Players artistic director Kristy Meanor said. “It was touring and playing on Broadway. We are so fortunate to have the rights again.”

Spamalot has been on Meanor’s mind for years to bring to Wetumpka.

“It is such a crowd pleaser. It is such a fun show,” Meanor said. “It was devastating when we lost it and had to wait.”

The show has drawn

the attention of local actors all wanting a spot in the production. Meanor said the pandemic was a blessing in disguise for Spamalot at the Wetumpka Depot.

“It is well worth it because the most amazing cast lined up for it,” Meanor said. “I had so many people audition for it I could have cast two or three different ways. We are so lucky to have the moon and the stars line up for this one.”

Meanor said audiences will love the comedy of Spamalot.

Spamalot is taken from the cult-favorite comedy film Monty Python and the Holy Grail. It is a parody of the King Arthur and Knights of the Round Table legend by Eric Idle and John Du Prez.

“Even if someone doesn’t like the Monty Python movies, everyone will still love it,” Meanor said. “It makes for a fun night at the Depot.”

Spamalot features the infamous Laker Girls, dancing divas, a killer

Chamber to hold Valentine’s Day Charity Ball

By MELODY RATHEL Multimedia Writer

The Lake Martin Dadeville Area Chamber of Commerce will hold its annual charity ball on Saturday Feb. 10. While the charity ball is normally held in November, the chamber is holding a Valentine’s Day Charity Ball because it wants to put emphasis on giving from the heart, said chamber event chairperson Sandra Carlisle.

The charity ball will be held at 5:30 p.m. at Copper’s Grill at Stillwaters.

The event will have a steak dinner provided by Scott Blake, and live entertainment from Mother Moonpie.

A silent auction will be held at the event. All of the proceeds from the charity ball will benefit Lake Martin Area United Way and the Lake

Martin Dadeville Area Chamber of Commerce.

“We do this to benefit our 28 agencies,” Carlisle said. “These are funds that we can use to meet the needs of our whole community.”

Those who participate in the silent auction have the opportunity to win multiple types of trips, a year-long membership to Stillwaters Golf Course, grills and several other donated items.

“We have three or four trips,” Carlisle said. “Some (trips) are to the mountains, and some are to the beach.”

Carlisle said they have been accepting various items to be given out during the auction, and they will be accepting more donations throughout the week.

Lifelong local creates art for community

By MELODY RATHEL Multimedia Writer

Charles Forbus has lived in Alexander City his entire life. When he was a child, he developed a talent and interest for art.

rabbit, catapulting cows and a legless knight. It has been honored with dozens of awards, including the Grammy for Best Original Cast Recording and three Tony Awards, including Best Musical.

The Depot Players cast in the production are Adrian Lee Bush as The Lady of the Lake, David Rowland as Patsy and Scott Page as King Arthur. Knights of the Round Table are Gage Leifried, Tim Griggs, Jay Russell and Seth Maggard who are accompanied by an ensemble of 15 singers, dancers and actors.

Spamalot is directed by Meanor. The creative team includes musical director Randy Foster, stage manager Hannah Meherg, choreographer Daniel Harms, set designer Charles Eddie Moncrief, lighting designer Thomas Rodman, music technician Jerry Parker and costume designer Suzanne Booth.

Spamalot will be on stage at The Depot for 10 shows beginning Feb. 15.

“When I was in second grade, I was told that I would grow up to be an artist,” Forbus said. “There’s not a time that I don’t remember being an artist.”

When he was in high school, he began painting custom artwork to sell to friends and family.

He has been able to create a successful career.

Forbus painted several of the murals throughout Alex City and Lake Martin.

One of his most recent Lake Martin projects was the mural at the Patriot Fueling Station on Highway 63. Forbus painted this mural with the help of his son. He also completed the artwork for the Lake Martin Mini Mall mural.

One of his most recognizable murals is the “Drink Chero-Cola” mural in an alley in downtown Alex City. He also completed the artwork located on the

MELODY RATHEL TPI

Alexander City native Charles Forbus has painted murals throughout downtown.

front of the Carlisle’s Soda Fountain building.

“Art has a unique ability to transcend language and connect people,” Forbus said.

“I am humbled to have played a small part in enhancing the visual landscape of Alex City.”

As an Alex City local himself, he is thankful that he’s had the opportunity to embellish his community.

“It brings me immense joy to create pieces that not only

capture the essence of our surroundings, but also resonate with people on a deep level,” Forbus said. “Knowing that my murals have the power to uplift, inspire and bring joy to those who pass is truly fulfilling.”

Forbus is not exclusive to painting, however.

He also specializes in custom oil, charcoal and pencil portraits of people and animals. He is also proficient in digital art for businesses, T-shirts, logos and more.

ABOVE: Dadeville Performing Arts Center has its doors open for the Open House event and puts on a dulcimer concert.

BELOW: Dadeville Community Chorus performs at the Pennington Park lighting ceremony. The chorus sang Christmas carols before the lights for Christmas in the Park turned on.

The Wetumpka Depot Players are presenting Spamalot

ENTERTAINING

THE CROWD

‘LIVE HAPPY’

Schuler brings happiness to her art

By LIZI ARBOGAST GWIN Managing Editor

Growing up in Hackneyville, Sydne Schuler always knew what she wanted to do.

“My entire childhood dream was being an artist and an art teacher,” Schuler said.

So now, she’s taking matters into her own hands.

Schuler has started a series of watercolor and acrylic workshops around Tallapoosa County. She’s hosted lessons at the Local at 41 Main and The Funky Goat and also has plans for workshops at Fermenter’s Market on the Green in Alexander City.

“The first hour, I teach you techniques and really go over the different styles of workshops and show you how to do each thing that’s going to be in your final piece of art,” Schuler said. “The second hour, we paint the whole piece at the end.”

The techniques taught are straight from Schuler’s mind, especially in her watercolor workshops as she taught herself. But her acrylics are a different story.

Back when Schuler was just 8 years old, she started art classes with Bonnie

Lucky. She fell in love with art and volunteered as well as did a three-year apprenticeship under Lucky.

“I got out of art for a little while, but I got back into it after I had my son,” Schuler said. “Now I’m rocking and rolling and ready to get out there.”

And get out there she has. Not only does Schuler have art in The Funky Goat and The Local, she also is getting some art in Carlisle’s in downtown Alex City. She also plans to start bi-weekly art classes for kids and adults.

Art is just a part of Schuler’s professional life either. It’s how she met her husband. Back when she was just 15, she met Tripp while taking a class and the two have been inseparable since. Their son Waylon is also a burgeoning artist.

“When I am painting, he is painting,” Schuler said with a grin.

That’s the face she usually wears when she’s creating art as she has one simple goal in mind. Her art’s tagline is Live Happy.

“I really just like (my art) to be fun and happy,” she said. “I have no other goal. I just want you to look at it and make you happy.”

breaks them apart to create jewelry. The beads end up as bracelets, earrings, necklaces and pendants.

Other times she finds individual beads. The Europeans brought the glass beads, but those of African lineage are made from lots of things such as amber, metal, bone and shells.

“I would buy two or three of something I thought was nice,” Winborn said. “I would keep some for me and make jewelry from

STARS

Continued from C1

with your loved one. Plus, steaks by Scott Blake — yep, you will catch me there. Even though we’re wrapped up in the Valentine season, we can’t forget how much Elmore County has made Mardi Gras really a thing in Central Alabama.

This past weekend was the Millbrook Mardi Gras celebration, complete with an all-youcan-eat breakfast, a festival and a parade. That was fol-

some.”

Some of the old strands Winborn will restring. Others go into the jewelry drawer.

Over the years she has sold her creations.

“I only do local shows,” Winborn said. “The furthest I went was maybe Birmingham. I had a 9 to 5 job. It is just a hobby. Now I also do the internet.”

Winborn can frequently be found around The Kelly. She offers classes on jewelry making most notably with beads. She has no plans to change.

“I try to keep it unusual,” Winborn said. “I only have the beads you can’t find anywhere else.”

lowed by Holtville’s first-ever Mardi Gras parade. Next up is in Wetumpka with the Order of the Cimmaron’s Mardi Gras festival. It takes the entire year to prepare, and it’s one you don’t want to miss. In one season of Stars Hollow, there’s a bit of a lull at the end of the summer. There’s no festivals or extravangas, so the town selectman comes up with an End-of-the-Summer bash.

“You finally found a way to fill September!” the main character says. Well, we’ve found a way to fill March as the little towns

in Central Alabama are ready to take full advantage of St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, plus with Easter falling early this year, egg hunts and paint parties to celebrate are coming soon. I always hear, “There’s nothing to do in this town,” but I challenge you to read these pages and we’ll change your mind.

Lizi Arbogast Gwin is the managing editor of Tallapoosa Publishers Inc. She can be reached via phone at 434962-9420 or via email at lizi. gwin@alexcityoutlook.com.

PHOTOS BY SAMANTHA HIMES | TPI

at Lake Martin Brewing during a recent Friday night event.

SUBMITTED TPI

Sydne Schuler’s tagline for her art is ‘Live Happy.’