Tallassee Tribune Nov. 1 2023

Emergency declared over exposed gas and water lines

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

City of Tallassee public

works director James Gardner is seeking help to remedy a problem of exposed pipes along Friendship Road just south of Five Points. Gardner said the issue came to light after a new slope mower was used along ditches between Highway 14 and Tal -

lassee Elementary School. In the process Gardner and city employees discovered a problem with gas and water lines.

“It is exposed on both sides of the road,” Gardner said. “It is going to have to have some pretty significant work done to get both sides straightened back out and hopefully not continue to wash away. We have a pretty good bit of gas line exposed now; it needs to be covered as quickly as possible.”

The lines were installed in the right of way along Friendship road and in the water runoff area that quickly moves to the bottom of the hill.

“It feeds [Tallassee Elementary] School and it feeds the hospital,” Gardner said. “Both have dirt that has washed away.”

GLASS EARNS DISTRICT-WIDE PRINCIPAL HONOR

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

Being head of the class is not unusual for Tallassee High School principal Drew Glass. Just two years ago he was selected as the state

assistant principal of the year by the Alabama Association of Secondary School Principals while at Wetumpka High School. Now he is AASSP District 4 principal of the year. “It is a big honor,” Glass said. “You are nominated

by your district peers.” District 4 encompasses county and city schools in Elmore, Lee, Russell, Tallapoosa, Macon and Bullock counties. Glass said the nomination at the

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

By LIZI ARBOGAST GWIN Managing Editor

Tallassee

THE

Police Reports

TALLASSEE POLICE DEPARTMENT

OCT. 30

• A noise complaint was reported on Gilmer Avenue. OCT. 29

conducted on Alber Drive.

• A welfare check was conducted on Gilmer Avenue.

conducted on Gilmer Avenue.

• A welfare check was conducted on Gilmer Avenue

• Assistance was given to a citizen on Barnett Boulevard.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Gilmer Avenue.

• An animal complaint was reported on Barnett Boulevard.

• Harassment was reported on Katie Lane.

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

• A juvenile complaint was reported on Laurel Street.

• Burglary and theft was reported on Hicks Store Road.

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

• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• A welfare check was conducted on Alber Drive. OCT. 28

• Disorderly conduct was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• A motor vehicle accident with injuries was reported on Lower Tuskegee Road.

• Assistance was given during a medical call on Hillcrest Street. Assistance was given to the fire department on Gilmer Avenue.

• A domestic dispute was reported on HIllcrest Street.

• A Black male was arrested during a traffic stop on Gilmer Avenue.

• Loitering was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• A welfare check was

• A welfare check was conducted on Joy Street.

• A verbal altercation was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• A juvenile complaint was reported on Lower Tuskegee Road.

• Unauthorized use of a vehicle was reported on Hillcrest Street.

• Harassment was reported on Barnett Boulevard.

• A white female was arrested on Barnett Boulevard.

• A private property motor vehicle accident was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• A motor vehicle accident with no injuries was reported on Notasulga Road. OCT. 27

• A welfare check was conducted on Gilmer Avenue.

• A juvenile complaint was reported on First Avenue.

• A fight in progress was reported on Hickory Street.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Barnett Boulevard.

• A private property motor vehicle accident was reported on Jordan Avenue.

• Animal control was requested on Highway 229.

• Suspicious activity was reported on Gravel Pit Drive.

• A domestic incident was reported on John Street.

• Suspicious activity was reported on Gravel Pit Drive.

• Assistance was given during a medical call on North Wesson Street. OCT. 26

• A welfare check was

• A juvenile complaint was reported on McNeal Road.

• A private property motor vehicle accident was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• Assistance was given to a citizen on Barnett Boulevard.

• Theft was reported on Freeman Avenue.

• Harassment was reported on Lily Avenue.

• Criminal mischief was reported on Gilmer Avenue. OCT. 25

• Assistance was given to a citizen on Barnett Boulevard.

• An animal bite was reported on Burt Mill Road.

• Suspicious activity was reported on Rickey Lane.

• A fight was reported on South Tallassee Drive.

• Assistance was given during a medical call on Friendship Road.

• A motor vehicle accident with injuries was reported on Central Boulevard.

• Assistance was given to a citizen on Fourth Street.

• A prowler was reported on Hickory Street.

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

• Criminal mischief was reported on Notasulga Road.

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

• Assistance was given to another agency on Notasulga Road.

• A suspicious person was reported on Dixie Circle.

New signs and hours coming for unlit

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

The new park in Jordanville is close to completion and signage will soon be ordered.

The opportunity gave the Tallassee City Council to look at hours for all its non-lighted parks.

Some councilors suggested the idea of sunrise to 8 p.m. But councilmember Bill Hall said there is still an issue.

“Certain times of year 8 p.m. is two hours after dark,” Hall said. “For safety reasons I think we would be better with until dark.”

Tallassee police chief Todd Buce suggested making the hours simple.

“You don’t have the proper lighting in the parks,” Buce told the council. “Keep it simple like sunrise to sunset.”

All councilmembers like Buce’s idea and quickly adopted it at last week’s meeting. Mayor Sarah Hill said the order for the signs would be placed soon.

The council voted to accept a U.S. Department of Homeland Security grant to pay for a turnout gear dryer for the Tallassee Fire Department.

Getting the nerves out

“The city will pay up front but the cost of the turnout gear dryer will be reimbursed 100%,” Hill said.

The council also approved CDG to be the engineering firm for the $9.7 million PHMSA grant project to replace cast iron gas lines in the Elmore County portion of Tallassee.

“They helped us secure this grant,” Hill said. “They were also the only firm to submit a bid on this grant project.”

Some of the vehicles the council surplused and sold at auction in late summer went unpaid. The city ran another auction for the remaining vehicles and approved their sale.

The F600 dump truck sold for $770, 1999 Chevy Silverado 1500 for $200, 2003 Chevy Impala for $100 and the 2003 Dodge Durango for $400.

Councilor Jeremy Taunton said the efforts of the Tallassee Police Department in slowing traffic in town.

“I have seen a lot of traffic stops on Gilmer Avenue,” Taunton said.

“There are not as many citations. I’m appreciative and other businesses along there are appreciative. It slows traffic to allow people to get in and out.”

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

• Harassment was reported on Barnett Boulevard.

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

• Trespassing was reported on Notasulga Road.

• Theft by deception was reported on Camelia Drive.

• A white male was arrested following a motor vehicle accident on Mooney Hollow Road.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Notasulga Road.

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

• Livestock was reported in the roadway on Weldon Road.

• An animal complaint was reported on Langley Street.

• An animal complaint was reported on Jordan Avenue.

• Assistance was given to a citizen on Poplar Street.

• Debris was reported in the roadway on Highway 229.

WETUMPKA POLICE

DEPARTMENT

OCT. 25

• Assistance was given to a citizen on Lee Street. OCT. 24

• Theft was reported on South Main Street.

OCT. 20

• Harassment was reported on West Coosa Street.

• Theft was reported on Fort Toulouse Road.

• Theft was reported on Fort Toulouse Road.

• Domestic violence was reported on Chapel Lakes Lane.

Tallassee Parks

City officials are working on demolishing houses through an ADECA grant program. It had stalled some but work has continued. Councilor Damien Carr asked for the status of the project as he was having problems in his ward.

“I’m having issues with abandoned houses and people hanging out there selling drugs and gambling,”Carr said. “They are there every day.”

Carr said the police department has aided in keeping the trespassers away but there is still an issue.

Hill said the grant list will be at the next council meeting.

IN OTHER ACTION THE TALLASSEE CITY COUNCIL:

• Approved minutes of the Oct. 10 meeting.

• Canceled meetings for Nov. 28 and Dec. 26.

• Approved transfer of retail beer and a tobacco license or HRV1 LLC.

• Hill informed the council the senior center director position was open. She hoped to have it filled in the first part of November.

The next meeting of the Tallassee City Council is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. Nov. 14.

Humane Society of Elmore County News

Help senior pets and owners this month

By REA CORD HSEC Executive Director

November is Adopt a Senior Pet Month

and we see more and more older pets whose owners are no longer able to care for them.

Many dogs and cats live well into their late teens so adopting a 5-, 8- or 10-year-old pet still means many, many years together.

Of course, what would be best in our shelter world is all pets stay with their families and never need our help in finding them new homes. That said, we ask everyone to keep a

check on others around you — those that may be elderly without family support, those less fortunate, those facing challenging times.

We should all look out for one another as much as possible but also ask you keep an eye out for the pets in those same homes.

Not only do us humans live longer, but our pets do as well. Just like us, our pets live longer as a result of better diets, exercise and medical care by their veterinarian.

But longer lives also lead to both people and pets with increased care requirements whether

Pet of the Week - Clementine

that be modified diets, more trips to the vet for recurrent issues or just more attention paid to the changes happening with an aging pet. Increasingly we see senior pets coming to us, and upon arrival they are in a very apparent state of neglect.

We see horribly overgrown (and ingrown) nails, coats with missing hair from parasites or neglected medical issues, teeth severely in need of dental care and often extractions, ears that are infected and painful and more.

Many times, these pets have had elderly

owners who have their own issues, such as reduced vision or limited means and ability to get around, and owners are simply not realizing the issues their beloved pet is also having. They may not be able to trim their dog’s nails and, if they cannot drive, cannot get their pet to a vet or groomer.

These owners may not comprehend their pet is simply not eating as well as it used to because its teeth are painful. If a pet owner is also dealing with human dementia or Alzheimer’s, he or she may forget to feed their pet or also not realize

Clementine is a Treeing Walker Coonhound who came to us as a stray and was never reclaimed. She is about 5 years old and weighs 55 pounds. She is incredibly sweet and loving; she craves attention. She would just love a couch to call her own but perhaps not in an apartment or quiet neighborhood as she does like to sing the song of her people. She is great with other dogs.

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 par-

ticipating veterinarian. If you are interested in meeting Cola or any of the pets at HSEC, the first step is to fill out an adoption application online. Once approved, you will be contacted by someone from the humane society. HSEC is located at 255 Central Plank Road in Wetumpka. The phone number is 334-567-3377 and the website is www.elmorehumane. org.

Fall Back starts this weekend with colder weather this week

The clock will soon turn back one hour as colder weather rolls in.

At 2 a.m. Sunday, Daylight Saving Time ends with Fall Back. The Federal Emergency Management Agency recommends taking this time to do some disaster preparation. The first is checking on and changing the batteries for carbon monoxide and smoke detectors. Most detectors have an instruction manual for how to properly test individual detectors.

their pet has been missing for longer than a few hours while it is locked outside (or has escaped).

So we bring this up to ask family, friends and neighbors please also keep an eye out for the pets of those who may no longer be seeing the reality of their pet’s needs and health.

They may need help with a ride to a vet or even need the help of a mobile vet to come to their house — or they simply may need the help of checking to make sure they have dog/cat food and the pet is being fed regularly. Helping a pet suf -

fering from fleas is also helping the owner who may be being bitten by fleas in the house as well.

We are asking for everyone to look out for each other and try to also look out for each other’s pets when there is a need for a bit more oversight. If you love animals this is not only helping the animal but helping their human as well, and we can all use a lot more of helping each other these days.

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

kit with items such as jumper cables, flashlights, First Aid kit, non-perishable food, water, tool kit, radio, cat litter for tire traction, ice scraper, warm clothes, blankets and a spare cell phone charger.

Lake Martin’s Best Source for News and Information.

FEMA recommends also using this time to ensure people are weather prepared, especially with their housing. According to the National Weather Service, people can prepare their homes for the winter by inspecting the chimney, insulating the attic, cleaning out the gutters, caulking and weather strip doors and windows and insulating exposed pipes. This week the temperatures also dropped with a freeze watch in Coosa, Elmore and Tallapoosa counties through Wednesday morning. The last recommendation FEMA has for Fall Back is to update your emergency kit and family emergency plan. For an extreme cold, NWS does have a guide for making a winter car survival

Tallassee Talks

The two-party system has got to go

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or more than 200 years, the United States has operated under basically a two-party political system. The parties have changed and even flip-flopped over the years, but the basic premise of one side versus the other has always remained.

I attended the Tallapoosa County Republican Party annual dinner last night, and guest speaker Steve Flowers, who is considered the leading political columnist in Alabama, discussed this two-party system a bit. He said only eight states really matter in the presidential election because so many states are so entrenched in their single party.

Flowers made the perfectly accurate point that if Mickey Mouse ran for president as a Republican, he’d take Alabama.

And that’s through no fault of Alabamians either. Flowers also said if Donald Duck was running as a Democrat, he’d take California. This is just the way our system works.

But it’s a very flawed system.

For one, the fact that we, as a country with a population of more than 330,000 people, have two men to choose from for the most important job in, arguably, the world is a travesty. It’s seeming more and more likely Joe Biden and Donald Trump will once again be the presidential nominees for the Democratic and Republican parties, respectively. And what’s really sad is — if there was anyone else to legitimately consider, the likelihood one of those two wins is extraordinarily low.

LIZI GWIN Managing Editor

Unfortunately those, the U.S. and our citizens are so entrenched in the two-party system that it’s even less likely a third-party, or independent, candidate would ever even come close to winning, even if he or she has the background, capabilities and the best views.

The most an independent candidate can do now is take votes away from the Democratic or GOP nominee, which, yes, affects the outcome of an election but not to the extent of having someone other than Biden or Trump in office.

Alabama is a red state, through and through. There’s no point arguing that. However, in Alabama, we are one of just 19 states that do not have voters declare a party. It is your right as an Alabamian to vote in either the Republican or the Democratic primary, just not both in the same year. As an Alabamian, you can vote in the Democratic primary then ultimately switch to the Republican candidate in the general election, or vice versa. You can vote in the Republican primary one presidential year, and the Democratic primary the next.

You have the power to get outside of the two-party system even if just for a moment, if you choose.

The flaws of the two-party system are only exacerbated by the

electoral college, which is an antiquated idea. The electoral college is what actually elects the president each year, and the winner needs 270 electoral college votes to win. Forty eight states and Washington D.C. award all of their electoral college votes to the same candidate, who wins the popular vote. A candidate can therefore win a lot of smaller states by smaller margins to secure the electoral college vote without actually winning the popular vote.

Five presidents have been elected without winning the popular vote; those include John Quincy Adams and Rutherford B. Hayes, which were ultimately decided by Congress due to different laws in the 1800s. The others were Benjamin Harrison (1888), George Bush (2000) and Donald Trump (2016). It happened three times in all of our election history for more than 200 years then twice in the last two decades; there’s clearly an issue that needs addressing. It’s time for a major change in our political system overall. The idea of the two parties is becoming more and more about you versus me than actually accomplishing things for the greater good of the country, which is really what our government is supposed to be doing. The longer there’s that idea of “good guy vs. bad guy,” the worse the divide becomes.

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

ow that we have reached the end of another football season, it’s time for the Most Interesting Story of the Year.

Every week, I get to travel as a chaperone with the Pride of Tallassee band. Other than riding Bus 2 and taking attendance, my job is to go to the press box at halftime and announce the songs the band will be playing in the show and key personnel for the band such as officers and leaders.

I get to be in the press box for the end of the second quarter of the football game. I am standing right behind the coaching staff, the clock operators, the radio broadcasters and the man with the microphone — the play-by-play announcer.

Each stadium is different. Some places have nice press boxes with friendly folks and free food and drink, even for visitors. Others have a hostile vibe and the people there act like they’d rather not have anyone from the other team using their stuff.

Years ago, we were the visiting team at a school in west Alabama. Memorably, the concession stand served only mustard greens, pickled pigs feet, hot wings and jalapeno peppers — and nothing else. The

smoke billowing out of the concession stand made the entire stadium take on the look and smell of a soul food restaurant in action.

Once inside the press box, the announcer seemed friendly enough. I noticed there was a barrel-shaped cooler behind the chairs. I opened it, thinking maybe I could plunder a bottle of water.

The cooler was filled with icecold cans of Old English 800 and Colt 45 malt liquor, and every time the mic was switched off, they had a radio playing loud hip-hop with so much bass coming out of the speakers, the stadium seemed like it was rattling. Until this year, I didn’t have a story nearly as interesting as that one. But what I’ve encountered the past couple of years while we’ve had a particular high school on our schedule has been pretty memorable, too. Their visitor’s side last year

had to be the worst we’ve seen in many years. The men’s restroom, for example, had a feed trough as a urinal, with a hole cut out of it at one end and a hose pipe running constantly to keep everything flowing; the water ran through the hole and washed whatever was in the urinal to the user’s feet below. But what made it so bad was there were no lights in the bathroom, so there was a brick propping the door open so some of the stadium light would illuminate the room just enough to barely see.

While that may sound rough, there is a funny side to the story from this year, when they visited us.

At halftime, I was making small talk with their announcer about their band, and he started telling me about their previous director leaving, and how the new one had come in and was the most organized, disciplined person they could’ve gotten.

“She came from the University of Alabama,” he said. “She was trained by Coach (Nick) Saban.”

“Trained by Coach Saban?” I asked, incredulously. I mean, did Nick Saban all of a sudden take on

MICHAEL BIRD Columnist

Is Harper Hill Cemetery haunted?

STAFF REPORT

TPI Staff

In honor of Halloween, the Tallapoosa Publishers Inc. staff went on a mission to find some of the most haunted spots in the tri-county area. Harper Hill Cemetery on Prospect Road

WEDNESDAY, NOV. 1

GOLF TOURNAMENT: The Wetumpka Area Chamber of Commerce will host its annual Great Balls of Fire Golf Tournament. It will begin at 9:30 a.m. at Robert Trent Jones at Capitol Hill in Prattville. The cost is $600 per team. For more information, visit the chamber website.

THURSDAY, NOV. 9 - SATURDAY, NOV. 11

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

SATURDAY, NOV. 25

5K AND FUN RUN: Redland Middle School will be hosting its second annual Eagle Run starting at 8 a.m. November 25. There will be a 5K and a one-mile fun run. Registration is now available through the Redland PTO.

SATURDAY, FEB. 10, 2024

MARDI GRAS FESTIVAL: Wetumpka’s 11th annual Mardi

in Tallapoosa County was deemed one of those spots, and staff members Lizi Arbogast Gwin, Henry Zimmer, Abigail Murphy and Sam Himes went to investigate. According to local legend, the pastor of Harper Hill Church murdered his

Gras Festival and Parade presented by The Order of Cimarron is scheduled for Feb. 10, 2024. Vendors open at 9 a.m. with the parade beginning at 1 p.m. This is a rain or shine event. Visit www. wetumpkamardigras.com for more information.

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

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

ECLECTIC TOWN COUNCIL

MEETINGS: Eclectic Town Council meetings are held on the third Monday of each month at Town Hall. Council meetings begin at 7 p.m. with work sessions taking place prior to the meeting at 6 p.m. Meetings are held in the Dr. M. L. Fielder Municipal Building, 145

family and killed himself on the property. Rumors have bee n heard about people hearing the pastor’s voice or screams in the night. Harper Hill Cemetery was established in 1812, and it is located in Union. According to the Tallapoosa GIS, it is owned by Harper Hill

Church & Cemetery, but the church is no longer there. There are just a handful of graves in the cemetery and several of the concrete and granite stones are broken into pieces. Many of the names listed on the graves are Harper, but there are others as well. There are

Walker at 334-541-2025

Main Street.

NAACP MEETINGS: The Elmore County Branch No. 5026 of the NAACP meets at 6:30 p.m. every third Tuesday (executive committee) and every fourth Tuesday (full membership) at the Martin Luther King Center at 200 North Lancaster St. in Wetumpka.

OPEN MIC: The Equality Performing Arts Center hosts an open mic jam session from 7 to 9 p.m. every second Friday of the month at 560 Highway 9 in Equality. There is no charge but donations are welcome as they keep the center running. Bring a snack or finger food to share during the intermission.

RED HILL COMMUNITY CLUB

MEETINGS: Red Hill Community Club Meetings are held every second Monday of the month. Join the Red Hill Historical Preservation Association in the auditorium of the Old Red Hill School, located off state Route 229 at 6:30 p.m. to discuss upcoming events.

MOUNT HEBRON CHURCH

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

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

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

CELEBRATE RECOVERY

SANTUCK: Celebrate Recovery meets each Thursday at 6:15 p.m. at Santuck Baptist Church at 7250 Central Plank Rd. This is a Christcentered, 12-step program for anyone struggling with hurts, habits, and hangups. Call 334-567-2364 for more information or contact jyates@santuckbaptist.org.

GAMBLERS ANONYMOUS: Gamblers Anonymous meets Saturdays at 6 p.m. at Cedarwood

death dates ranging from the early 1900s to early 2000s.

The TPI staff is not trained in ghost hunting whatsoever, so anything found during the making of our mockumentary was simply coincidence. Check out the full video online now.

Community Church at 10286 U.S. Highway 231 in Wallsboro/ Wetumpka. Call 334-567-0476 for more information. AA MEETING: Alcoholics Anonymous meetings are held Mondays at 7 p.m. located at 105 Tuskeena St. in Wetumpka.

RED HILL SCHOOL: The Red Hill School on Highway 229 in the Red Hill Community in Tallassee is open Fridays from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. for local live music performances. No admission is charged but donations are welcomed to maintain the building and pay for refreshments.

MASTER GARDENER

HELPLINE: If you have gardening questions you can call the Master Gardener Helpline at 1-877-2524769. The helpline starts March 1 and ends in August.

CHILDREN’S HARBOR: Children’s Harbor Treasures and Thrift Store Located on state route 63 just south of Lake Martin Amphitheater, the Children’s Harbor Thrift Store is open Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. proceeds are used to help fund the activities at the Lake Martin campus of children’s harbor and the Family Center at Children’s Hospital. Call 334-857-2008 for more information.

being a halftime announcer — a Bird’s eye view each week as young people make music for football fans. Michael Bird is a music teacher with Tallassee City Schools.

SABAN

SAM HIMES THE HERALD

ABOVE: Local legend says the pastor of Harper Hill Church went mad and killed his family and himself. People in the area have said the cemetery is haunted with the victims. RIGHT: Harper Hill Cemetery is said to be haunted and is located on Prospect Road in Tallapoosa County.

Elmore County Community Calendar

the word yes out fast enough.

The Guest House, which sits adjacent to the Trail of Tears, was built in 1941.

“There is in fact, on the back side of the property, an Indian burial ground,” Tarpley said. “Weird things happen at this property regardless. So when we had the opportunity to use this space to create a haunted house for the community, we jumped at the chance. It’s a different fundraiser, and it’s something the

players can enjoy more than selling Coca Colas or wrapping paper.”

The Guest House is owned by Corrie Sid, who also owns and manages Grove Station in Tallassee. Tarpley said Sid has always been a big supporter of the Tiger soccer teams, but instead of just making a donation, she wanted to do something a little different.

“She approached me this year and said, ‘I can write you a check, or I have this other idea,’” Tarpley said. “She and I sat down for about an hour and the Graveyard Creek Lodge and Trail of Tears was born. We are

so appreciative to her for all of her support and letting us use her 25 acres and house.”

Then the players went to work. Tarpley said it was the Tigers who were responsible for creating the story as well as designing and building their own scenes and costumes. There were scenes such as a butcher, a deranged doctor, a man in a bunny mask and more.

“They really spent a lot of time on this,” Tarpley said. “After you get through the house, then there’s about 35 kids hiding in the woods. There’s a lot going on down in those woods, and there

is some lighting down there. But there are a lot of surprises awaiting you in the woods.”

Tallassee’s haunted house was about two months in the making and the first of its kind in the city for more than two decades. Tarpley said the community reaction was fantastic, and he’s already thinking about ways to build onto it next year.

“I think the community has really embraced it,” he said. “We had a lot of parents and students from Wetumpka High School last night, and we’ve had some people from Elmore County High School in Eclectic. We have a few

in line right now that are wearing Holtville T-Shirts, so we’re excited to be able to provide this

EMERGENCY

Continued from A1

Along the east side of the road multiple locations of a water line up to 6 inches in diameter are exposed. On the west side of the road a long stretch of four inch gas main is exposed.

Garner asked for the emergency declaration as the remedy is beyond the abilities of what the city can do with its equipment and manpower.

“We just don’t have an excavator that can place dirt and compact it where it will stay,” Garner said. “We could cover it up but it would just wash out very quickly. We need to do it because the

service to the community. We just hope everybody is having fun and making some good memories.”

colder weather coming could freeze the water pipes and cause them to bust. We also need that gas line covered.”

City attorney John Smith said declaring an emergency is reserved for rare cases of an immediate need to start work immediately without the bidding process. The City of Tallassee has done it before.

“We did this at the filter plant when a system was failing,” Smith said. “There was a concern the city would lose its ability to supply water to its customers. I think this fits the same situation given the importance of those lines to the school and hospital.”

Garner said work should begin in the next couple days to fix the issue.

their businesses. Grove

Station owner Corrie Sid said the current step of paving James Street has left her business basically unreachable.

“People are not understanding how to maneuver

down there,” Sid said. “It is a high risk area right now. There are people doing eight-point turns to turn around on Sistrunk and go back the opposite way. That is what we are watching every day.”

Sid owns the business and building at the corner of Sistrunk and James. Currently if a car can get to her business it then has

to figure out how to leave.

It can go back the way it came or navigate the crusher run lane installed in the dug up James Street. With traffic backed up on Barnett Boulevard most days due to the painting of the Fitzpatrick Bridge, other issues have risen. If a car can get back to Barnett Boulevard, it is often stuck in gravel trying to wedge in traffic with no help.

“It makes sense to have some help flag and stop bridge traffic so people can come out to turn either direction,” Sid said.

Sid and other downtown business owners met with the Tallassee City Council in a work session to discuss their issues. Councilor Linda Mosher sat and listened mostly. She was taking in the information, as a business owner on South Ann Street too. Sid and others were seeking a meeting with contractors and engineers to see what could be done to give some relief.

“If a meeting is set up, I would like to come,” Mosher said. “I have talked to them but I don’t have answers. It hasn’t reached us on Ann Street like it has you all, but it will eventually.”

Sid’s concern is over how long the project to replace the sidewalks and streets is taking.

The ALDOT TAP project contract allows for 150 working days. Referred to as the streetscape project, it couldn’t start until the utility project was completed. The utility portion of the project started in summer of 2020 and was completed before the TAP project started.

Sid and other business owners sought relief from the council for how the projects have impacted their businesses and decimated revenue. Sid and others sought to have business licenses and fees reduced or eliminated during the time of the proj-

PRINCIPAL

Continued from A1

ect. The same relief was sought for city utilities.

Councilor Bill Godwin said the city just couldn’t give that kind of relief. He said they were hearing complaints about projects from beyond downtown.

“If we start that precedent it is opening Pandora’s box,” Godwin said. “It will be wide open. We are hearing from all sorts of businesses, mainly about the bridge — not the downtown project. The slowdown has affected people over in Tallapoosa County claiming they can’t get to Elmore County to do business and vice versa.”

Godwin said if the city did give the relief asked for, every business would seek something similar, which would create issues for the city’s already tight budget.

Sid told Godwin she’s currently going through a similar experience, except she operates her business on far less revenue and the loss in revenue is severely harmful.

Godwin said the nearly $3 million in work will have its greatest impact once done.

“It will pay off in the future,” Godwin said. “I know you got to survive, I’m not ignorant to that.”

Godwin said he fully expects property values to rise once everything is completed. But Sid said there might not be a downtown if city officials don’t step in. She said the city needs to do something about buildings on James Street that are close to falling in.

“You say you think our buildings will be worth more,” Sid said. “My fear is the precedent set with the hotel and condemnation of that building might need to be applied to other buildings down there.”

Sid said developers have told her the buildings need work now to prevent a situation similar to the

district level is great because of the select company it includes.

“It was me, Dr. Shannon Pignato at Auburn and Richy Brown Jr. at Beauregard who got nominated this year,” Glass said.

All of the principals from the

Hotel Talisi in the near future. Godwin said the city has tried to encourage and work with property owners downtown to allow others to take ownership and renovate buildings.

It is something the city has done in selling The Guest House to Sid at a discounted price. It is also how Restoration 49 got its start as well. But the city doesn’t own the buildings in question and doesn’t have ordinances in place to force much action.

“What else do we do for people that won’t budge won’t fix the buildings up,” Godwin said. “They haven’t for years. They won’t sell them where people can come to work on it. We are doing what we can do. If you can figure out how to get these slumlords to do something, let me know.”

Sid said she is concerned about other issues such as ADA compliance after the project is completed. The current plans have no diagonal parking on Sistrunk Street or James Street. The only available handicap parking is behind the buildings facing Sistrunk Street.

Sid said that is too far for handicap people to walk.

“My rear entrance is not ADA compliant,” Sid said. “My two front doors are.”

The project is paid for with funds from the ALDOT and the U.S. Department of Transportation. Godwin and Mayor Sarah Hill said the project plans were signed off by CDG, the city’s engineering contractor, and the two government agencies. Godwin said if there is an issue with the project not being built to the plans, it would be fixed at the contractor’s cost. Yet to be installed are railings on the sidewalks where necessary for ADA compliance.

The business owners sought support in ask-

district vote on principal of the year. Now Glass is in the process of seeing if he will be selected as principal of the year from AASSP’s nine districts across the state. “I’m in the process of filing out the application for the state,” Glass said. “On Nov. 7 at the fall conference they will name the top three of the nine.”

ing the Elmore County Commission for financial relief. Godwin said the city couldn’t give a blanket approval for it but would take a letter to the commission into consideration.

“To the mayor’s credit the Elmore County Commission has been helpful with projects,” Godwin said. “Anything you think we can do, let us know. If they come to offer something or ask something if it is within reason we are willing to work with them.”

There is currently almost no signage up around downtown except for blocking off James Street at its intersection with Ann Street. Sid said detour signs are needed — not only to direct traffic but also to say there are downtown businesses open.

All Things Desired Boutique is on Sistrunk Street with Grove Station. Side would ideally like the streets to be open for the upcoming Christmas parade, which is the biggest revenue day of the year for the boutique. Santa will also be at Grove Station after the parade.

“We need people to be able to park before and after the parade,” Sid said. “This was a big deal for us last year.” Lastly the business owners asked for when the project will be completed and traffic returns to the new normal. They said they aren’t getting answers from anyone. Until the project ends, they expect revenues to continue to dwindle.

“They will not give us an end date,” Sid said.

“We understand that is not a for sure. Things change, it rains. We know they don’t show the day after it rains. Getting some resemblance of ideas of when things are happening would be great.”

The process continues if Glass is selected as a finalist.

“You will then have to fill out another big application and submit to get state principal of the year,” Glass said.

Wetumpka High School principal Kyle Futral was named principal of the year for the state two years ago when he was principal at Holtville.

CLIFF WILLIAMS | THE TRIBUNE

A large yellow gas line was discovered in this ditch along Friendship Road was mowed with a slope mower. The line feeds Tallassee Elementary School and Community Hospital across the street.

LIZI ARBOGAST GWIN | THE TRIBUNE

Tallassee soccer players had to design their own scenes, including this one of a butcher’s room, for their Halloween haunted house.

For all the saints

reetings from the corner of Bridge and Bridge. It is a beautiful fall day as I write this week’s column. The weather will have taken a dramatic change towards wintry temperatures by the time this column is published. Gotta love central Alabama weather!

I have always loved Halloween. I have been dressing up and trick or treating from one side of the door or the other my entire life. Thanks to Trunk or Treat at church, I get to continue the tradition at work! One of my favorite parts of Halloween, however, happens the day after.

All Hallows Eve gives way to All Saints Day; the day when the saints of the church,

REV. JONATHAN YARBORO Columnist

known and unknown, are celebrated. The tradition of All Saints Day celebration goes back to the 4th century Christian church. It was celebrated by the western church every November as Christianity spread across the globe. I first became aware of the day and its meaning in childhood. The Presbyterian Church I grew up in had an All-Saints service every year on November 1st. My parents explained that this was the

time to recognize, remember, and honor the shoulders of those we stand on in the living of our faith.

The significance of All Saint Day for me is made most clear by the hymn For All the Saints. It was written by William Walsham How in 1864 and put to music by Ralph Vaughan Williams in 1906. It features a moving tempo and uplifting melody that grabbed my attention as a young child. The words began to deepen in my heart each year and have continued to do so.

For all the saints who from their labors rest, who thee by faith before the world confessed; thy name, O Jesus, be forever blest.

Tallassee Churches

Alleluia!

Thou wast their rock, their fortress and their might; thou, Lord their captain in the well-fought fight; thou, in the darkness drear, their one true light. Alleluia!

O blest communion. Fellowship divine! We feebly struggle; they in glory shine; yet all are one in thee for all are thine. Alleluia!

And when the strife is fierce, the warfare long, steals on the ear the distant triumph song. And hearts are brave again, and arms are strong. Alleluia!

From earth’s wide bounds, from ocean’s farthest coast, through gates of pearl streams in the countless host, singing to Father, Son and

Holy Ghost. Alleluia!

All Saints Day is a time to remember those whose life and witness encourages us to embrace the divine image present in all and to be our best selves. It is what allows us to trust in God and God’s hope for the whole of humanity – in this life as well as in the next. It is a time to celebrate those who have gone before us, not mourn their absence.

Reread the lyrics to this hymn. Whether you are reading them for the umpteenth time or for the first time, allow them to conjure up images of the saints in your life. Celebrate them this AllSaints Day. They deserve a day of remembrance since they are unselfishly with us the other 364 days of every year.

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

Dalton MiDDleton SportS eDitor dalton.middleton@thewetumpkaherald.com

www.TallasseeTribune.com

Sports

www.TallasseeTribune.com

Tallassee native named parks and recreation director

STAFF REPORT TPI

Staff

Tallassee proudly announces the appointment of Eric Phillips, a lifelong resident and dedicated community member, as the new director of Parks and Recreation. With an impressive background in sports leadership and a commitment to community well-being, Phillips brings a wealth of experience and passion to this vital role.

A 1988 Tallassee graduate, he has deep roots in the community, having raised two sons,

Russell and Rutland, who also graduated from Tallassee l in 2022 and 2023, respectively.

Russell is currently employed as a lineman in Billingsley, while Rutland is working for a local electrician and pursuing his education in electrician school.

in sales and management within various industrial supply companies. However, his dedication to community service and organized sports has always been a guiding force in his life.

He earned a degree in business administration from Troy University in 2002, marking the beginning of a successful career

Tallassee football tries to win season finale

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

HOLTVILLE (6-3) AT TALLASSEE (1-8)

THE PLAYERS Holtville: QB Keiland Baker has completed 93-of-171 passes for 1,267 yards, 11 TDs, 6 INTs; he has rushed for 283 yards, 8 TDs. … WR Erik Adkins has 32 receptions for 409 yards, 4 TDs. … DB Cedrick Croskey has recorded 42 tackles, 3 INTs.

Tallassee: RB Christian McCary rushed for two TDs against Sylacauga two weeks ago. … QB Trent Morris rushed and passed for one TD in his last game. … RB/ WR Jaiden McKenzie caught a TD pass last game.

FOUR DOWNS

Last week, Holtville lost to Elmore County, 28-21; Tallassee did not play.

Tallassee beat Holtville last season, 35-7.

Holtville has already won twice as many games this season as it did last year.

Tallassee holds a 31-3-1 overall record against Holtville alltime.

NEXT UP: Holtville hosts Headland in the first round of playoffs; Tallassee’s season is over.

JEMISON (1-8) AT ELMORE COUNTY (7-2)

THE PLAYERS

Elmore County: RB/ WR Cade Everson has rushed 81 times for 540 yards, 12 TDs; he has 18 receptions for 324 yards, 4 TDs. … WR Jabari Murphy has 29 receptions for 400 yards, 4 TDs; he has rushed for 5 TDs. … DE Brandon White has recorded 41 tackles, 12 tackles for loss, 6 sacks.

Jemison: QB Luke Gann has completed 89-of-155 passes for 759

Notably, Phillips served on the board of directors for Tallassee Dixie Youth Baseball for nine years, four of which were spent as commissioner, showcasing leadership and a deep commitment to the development of youth in sports. Additionally, he contributed his expertise to the Tallassee Athletic Club’s board of directors.

In his new role, the focus will be on enhancing the quality of life for Tallassee citizens. He envisions achieving this goal by providing a diverse array of recreational, social, and educational opportunities in a safe, clean, and welcoming environment.

An integral part of his approach will be collaboration with the long-serving Parks and Recreation staff.

Phillips values the dedication and experience of the existing team and looks forward to working together to elevate the

parks and recreational offerings in Tallassee.

“I am excited and honored to take on the role of Director of Parks and Recreation in Tallassee,” Phillips said. “My aim is to foster a sense of community through sports and recreational activities, ensuring that our citizens have access to enriching experiences that contribute to their overall well-being. I am eager to collaborate with the dedicated Parks and Recreation staff to build on the strong foundation they have established.”

BEAT THE CLOCK

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

The Tallassee boys basketball team lost a large group of seniors from last year’s team, but Tiger coach Keiven Mixson prepared for that loss.

Instead of starting all seniors last year, Mixson played some younger players to try and get them ready for the years to come. That turned into three underclassmen starting the majority of last season, and in turn resulted in Tallassee returning three starting players to this year’s squad.

When Tallassee takes the court for the first time Mon-

day, Nov. 13 at Marbury, junior Rowen Thornton, senior Jamarrion McCoy and eighth grader Jaiden Gordon will all be returning as starters.

“We tried to get as many kids experience as we could because we knew we would be in this situation,” Mixson said. “We do have some experience coming back and that’s really going to help. We’re not really big as we lost some size from last year, so we’re going to have to play up-tempo and run and press.”

Tallassee will have some height, as Thornton is 6-foot4 and Brodie Ellis is 6-3, but neither are true post players.

Most of Tallassee’s team

is filled with guards like McCoy, his brother Jakai McCoy and Gordon, all of whom are under 5-10.

So Mixson’s team is going to play fast. The Tigers are going to get up-and-down the court as fast as possible, and they’re going to press all the way down the court. He’s had to play this way in the past as well, and his team is built for that style of play.

“That’s the way we’ve played in the past,” Mixson said. “Every year that I’ve been here, we’ve kind of transitioned to a quicker game. That’s what we’ll have to do this year as well. We will

Reeltown’s Smith commits to Huntingdon

By HENRY ZIMMER Sports Writer

Reeltown’s do-it-all

baseball player Blake Smith will be playing college baseball.

Smith announced earlier this month he was taking his talents to Huntingdon College in Montgomery.

“It’s always been a dream of mine to play

college baseball,” Smith said.

Smith played alongside Benjamin Russell’s Jaxon Hay in many summer ball scouting combines and tournaments. Much like Hay, Smith said the extra exposure outside of strictly school ball helped his college dream become a reality.

“I played summer ball and posted highlights

on social media which did help me get some messages and calls from college coaches,” Smith said. “I had a Zoom call with an out of state college that showed me the campus, which was neat, but ultimately a showcase at Huntington led to an official visit.” That official visit then later led to a commitment.

“I loved the atmosphere and facilities at Huntington,” Smith said. “I feel the coaches will push me as a player and to be a good all-around person which is important. Their baseball team seems to always be competitive, as well. I was also impressed with the way they interacted with

FILE | THE TRIBUNE

Tallassee running back Christian McCary (4) takes the handoff from Trent Morris (16).The Tigers are looking to finish their season with a win over Holtville.

FILE | THE TRIBUNE

Tallassee’s Rowen Thornton drives to the basket last season. Thornton is one of three returning starters for the Tigers.

FILE | THE TRIBUNE

Reeltown’s Blake Smith has committed to Huntingdon College to play college baseball.

PHILLIPS

Tallassee basketball ready to speed up games

Continued from B1

yards, 8 TDs, 8 INTs. …

RB Kintre Jackson has rushed 61 times for 223 yards, 3 TDs; he has 22 catches for 219 yards, 6 TDs. … DB Houston Harris has recorded 48 tackles, 1 INT.

FOUR DOWNS

Last week, Elmore County beat Holtville, 28-21; Jemison lost to Beauregard, 41-14. Elmore County beat Jemison last season, 60-12. With a win, Elmore County will reach eight wins in a season for the first time since 2008. Jemison has been outscored by 78 combined points in its last three games.

NEXT UP: Elmore County travels to Vigor in the first round of playoffs.

CENTRAL-CLAY COUNTY (9-0) AT WETUMPKA (5-4)

THE PLAYERS

Wetumpka: QB Nate Rogers has rushed for over 100 yards in every game this season; he scored one rushing and one passing TD last week. … WR/RB Jamarion Thrasher has scored a TD in four of his five games since returning from injury. … DB James Ball scored a defensive touchdown last week.

FOUR DOWNS

Last week, Wetumpka beat Sidney Lanier, 20-12; Central-Clay beat Russell County, 30-14. Central-Clay County beat Wetumpka last season, 35-30. Central-Clay coach Danny Horn won his 350th career game last week.

Central-Clay is 2-0 against 6A teams this year, winning a combined 60-27.

NEXT UP: Wetumpka travels to Helena in the first round of playoffs.

MINOR (3-6) AT STANHOPE ELMORE (3-6)

THE PLAYERS

Stanhope Elmore: QB Jacob Bryant threw two TDs last week against Park Crossing. … RB Arthur McQueen has rushed for over 100 yards in all seven games this year; he had three TDs last week. … WR Jamari Coleman added another TD to his season total as he leads the team in yards.

Minor: QB Sherman Williams has completed 37-of-68 passes for 596 yards, 3 TDs, 1 INT. … RB Paul Allen has rushed 61 times for 314 yards, 1 TD. … WR Tylan Amerson has 22 receptions for 432 yards, 4 TDs.

FOUR DOWNS

Last week, Stanhope Elmore beat Park Crossing, 52-14; Minor beat Woodlawn, 28-0. Stanhope Elmore beat Minor last season, 21-7. Both teams missed the playoffs in their respective classifications. Stanhope Elmore’s 52 points last week was its season-high.

NEXT UP: Stanhope Elmore’s season is over.

Continued from B1 FINALE

players during the showcase.”

The showcase at Huntingdon was one of the major keys to securing Smith’s commitment to the Hawks. The coaches were especially hands on and liked Smith’s ability to play wherever needed.

“The coaches provided

Player of the Week

Elmore County’s Everson honored in back-to-back weeks

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

There’s just no keeping Elmore County senior Cade Everson out of the end zone.

For the second-straight week, the Panthers’ star receiver, running back and quarterback seemed to do it all for Elmore County.

In a 28-21 rivalry win over Holtville, Everson raced past defenders along the edge for a touchdown, pummeled his way up the middle for another touchdown and even caught a fade route in the corner of the end zone for his third touchdown.

For his second-straight three-touchdown performance, Everson has been named the Elmore County Player of the Week for the second-straight week.

“He’s just so special,” head coach Kyle Caldwell said. “He’s a great kid. He just does everything the right way. I’m hoping someone can come in and steal one with him. Some college is gonna get a diamond in the rough with him.

He’s special.”

Everson kept Holtville’s defense on its toes, as he lined up at every skill position on Friday night.

At quarterback, he took a direct snap on the 1-yard line and scored the first touchdown of the night. Five minutes later, he lined up at

quarterback again and actually handed the ball off to CJ Wilkes, who scored a 4-yard touchdown.

With the game tied, 14-14, Everson went on to score both go-ahead touchdowns, including the game-winner, just before halftime.

Playing running back, Ryals McNeely handed him the ball and he raced 53 yards along the right side line untouched for a touchdown.

After McNeely helped drive the Panthers down the field again just before half, Everson caught a toe-tap fade route in the corner to give Elmore County its final lead, 28-21, with 25 seconds left.

That’s been the story of Everson’s season. He’s lined

up everywhere on the offense and he’s had success in every position.

On the season, he has mainly touched the ball as a runner. He has 80 carries for a team-high 540 yards and 12 touchdowns. He has the second most catches on the team with 18 for 324 yards and four more touchdowns.

He mostly runs the wildcat when at quarterback, but he’s completed his only two passes on the year for 60 yards and a touchdown.

He’s even helped out on the defensive side of the ball as a member of the secondary. He’s shown on that side of the ball the ability to naturally drift to the ball no matter what, as he’s one of six Pan-

thers who have intercepted a pass this season. Everson and company look to cap off a stellar regular season when the Panthers host Jemison this weekend. If Elmore County can win, it would reach eight wins for the first time in a season since 2008.

Continued from B1

have to create turnovers and play a fast game.” Gordon and the McCoy brothers will look to headline that fast style of play.

Gordon, who is ranked as a Top 5 player in the Class of 2028, made his presence known as a seventh grader last year. He was named to the All-County team after averaging 6 points and 6.3 assists per game. He will take on a larger scoring role, but a lot of the scoring will be left to Jamarrion.

Jamarrion averaged 9 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists last year as he also was named All-County. Thornton, who will play on the perimeter on offense while trying to crash the boards on defense, averaged 10 points and 6 rebounds a game last year.

“It’s huge having those guards coming back,” Mixson said. “If you don’t have expe-

rienced guards, you aren’t going to be able to get the ball up the court. Luckily, we have two guys who can do that for us. We’ll have some teams try to press us, but it’s going to be tough to do that to us because we’re trying to speed the game up. Our guards will be the strength of our team.”

Those five are the only returning players from last year’s varsity squad, while the rest of the roster will be filled out with younger players and newcomers.

The young team will be tested early and often this season. Tallassee has seen some changes to its schedule and faces a brutal test seemingly every week.

The Tigers will have to face region opponent Valley twice, which won the AHSAA Class 5A state championship last year after going undefeated at 34-0. The Tigers will also face Sidney Lanier twice, which went 17-10 and clinched a playoff berth over the likes of Stanhope Elmore and

good instruction and did a great job interacting with players,” Smith said. “As a player, they like that I’m a true utility player. I’ll have the opportunity to compete and show my talents at whatever position that helps the team which is exciting.” Last season with the Rebels, Smith earned his second-straight First Team All-Outlook nod.

Wetumpka last year. On the flip side of things, Tallassee will not play any teams from inside the county like it usually does.

“We are playing a few different teams that we

Smith hit .333 from the plate with seven RBIs, while playing practically every position on the field. On the mound is where he really shined, pitching the most innings on his team and finishing with a 3.02 ERA. His 36 strikeouts also led the squad.

During summer ball play, the senior said he fine tuned his abilities against top-tier

don’t normally play, so I really don’t know exactly what they all have coming back this year,” Mixson said. “Most of the teams we added have had some good teams the last few years.

talent from all around the country to help put him on Huntingdon’s radar.

“Playing well against elite talent helped my confidence,” Smith said. “No doubt this carried over to my workouts/ showcases which helped me land at Huntington.”

Ahead of his final year in blue and white, Smith wants to improve on his already stellar numbers.

We want to play some teams that are going to push us. It looks like a fun schedule. It’s going to be fun for us just in the sense that we aren’t playing the same teams we usually play.”

Adding a blue map to Reeltown’s trophy collection is certainly on Smith’s radar.

“I’d like to improve on my power numbers and RBIs, but the main goal is to advance in the playoffs to ultimately win a championship,” Smith said.

“Last year, we lost in the first round to the eventual state champion (Ariton) which has motivated us to work harder as a team this year.”

DALTON MIDDLETON THE TRIBUNE

Elmore County’s Cade Everson runs for a touchdown against Holtville. The senior scored three touchdowns in the rivalry game.

Game of the Week

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

The biggest game of the year is in front of Edgewood Academy.

The Wildcats, which finished the regular season with a 4-6 overall record, are hosting Clarke Prep School in the first round of the AISA Class AA playoffs.

Clarke Prep is the No. 3 seed out of Region 2 and enters the game with a 7-4 overall record. The Gators finished in the bottom half of the playoff qualifiers after losses to Patrician Academy and Banks Academy in region play.

“They’re very well coached offensively,” Edgewood coach Chad Michael said. “They do a lot of different things. They want to run the football. Their offensive line is big and physical, and they want to set the tone early by running the ball and pass the ball off that. They have a good running back who if you don’t tackle at the line of scrimmage, he can score in a hurry.”

Alex Hayes is the main running back carrying the ball for the Gators, and he can score from any level of the field. He has 2-yard touchdowns this year and as far as 80-yard touchdowns. The Gators will run the ball through him and then quarterback

Connor Bumpers will catch a defense sleeping with passes to Hayes, running back Trace Phillips or receiver Ashton

Williams.

Clarke Prep has scored nearly 400 points this season, good for just under 40 points per game.

The Gators’ offense will be tested, however, as Edgewood Academy’s defense has been nothing short of stellar the last month.

Outside of last week’s

matchup with AAA state champion Lee-Scott, Edgewood’s defense has been holding teams to seemingly nothing the last four games.

In wins over MaconEast, Hooper and Lakeside, Edgewood held its three opponents to a combined 14 points.

Last week, the Wildcats did give up 35 points

in a loss to Lee-Scott, but still forced three turnovers.

“We’re going to be very detailed on what we do on defense,” Michael said. “We’ll have to recognize formations quickly and we will have to match their physicality. That’s the main thing for us. We have to match them up front so we’re

able to get off blocks and make tackles before their guy gets going.”

As physical as Clarke Prep may be on offense, Edgewood will be just as physical. The Wildcats have not been as successful on offense this year, averaging only 12 points per game, but they have some players who are not afraid to take a hit.

Running back Parker Shaw is a big bruising running back who fights for every yard he gets, while Brock Whitt is at quarterback with his 6-foot-5, 230 pound frame. Whitt took over the quarterback spot at midseason, and immediately led Edgewood to a 3-1 record in the process.

“I think the change has really worked out well and Brock has done a good job,” Michael said. “It’s given us a vertical threat, and he’s 230 pounds. He’s a run threat as well and is hard to bring down. Both him and Parker being in the backfield gives us two bodies that are downhill guys. They’re not going to make you miss them. They’re trying to set the tone with their pads.”

Edgewood Academy’s Parker Shaw carries the ball against Lowndes Academy earlier this season.

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PUBLIC NOTICE MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE

Default having been made in the payment of the indebtedness secured by that certain mortgage executed by David Bishop to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Advance Mortgage and Investment Company, LLC, dated November 2, 2021 said mortgage recorded in the of Elmore County, Alabama, in mortgage was subsequently sold, assigned and transferred to Lakeview Loan Servicing, LLC. Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, the undersigned, Lakeview Loan Servicing, LLC, will sell at public outcry to the highest bidder for cash, in front of the main entrance of the Courthouse in Elmore County, Alabama on November 20, 2023, during the legal hours of sale, all of its right, title, and interest in and to the following describe real estate situated in Elmore County, Alabama, towit: LOT 2, BLOCK E OF THE 3 OF INDIAN HILLS SUBDI-CORDED IN THE OFFICE OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA

Tacoma Dr Coosada AL 36020

Public Notices

enants, and matters of record set out above. Said property will be sold subject to the right of redemption of all parties entitled thereto. The highest bidder must tender the total amount of at the time and place of sale. Alabama law gives some persons who have an interest in property the right to redeem the property under certain circumstances. help persons avoid or delay the

Public Notices

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Said property will be sold “ASTY. Said property is subject to but not limited to: any outstanding ad valorem taxes - including taxes which are a lien but not yet due and payable, federal tax liens any matters which might be disclosed by an accurate survey and inspection of the property, any assessments liens, encumbrances, zoning ordinances, restrictions, cov-

Students get a chance to see agriculture

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

Not many people know how to remove seeds from a cotton bowl or what soybeans and honey bees look like close up.

But some Elmore County fourth and fifth graders got a lesson in agriculture Friday thanks to the Elmore County Extension Service and it being Alabama Extension Week.

“We want to introduce kids to agriculture and the different aspects of it,” Elmore County Extension Coordinator Katrina Mitchell said. “When you think of agriculture, you think of the farmer out in the field, but agriculture is way more than that.”

Students visiting the barn were able to see fish and learn they can be farmed. They learned goats are a source of meat and milk. They got a chance to remove corn from a cob and learn it can then be turned into grits, corn chips and more. Students got a chance to see and pet alpacas while learning the different uses of the wool.

Weoka goat breeder Gina Lowry brought one of her lamancha dairy goats to the Farm Day program.

“Goats are just like cows,” Lowry said. “The lamancha is a dairy goat, but it can be used for meat.”

She said about 80% of the world depends on goats for milk and meat. Lowry only sells goat milk for pets but said it is good for human consumption.

“It is universal milk,” Lowry said. “Any species can drink it. Doctors will suggest it for those who are lactose intolerant.”

Lowry said the meat is great too.

“The meat is really lean and high in protein,” she said.

President of the Elmore County Cattleman’s Association Mark Matthews brought a display showing where the various cuts of beef come from on a cow.

“We want them to know where beef comes from,” Matthews said. “It doesn’t just come from the grocery store. A lot of children do not know where their food comes from, but they like hamburgers and steaks.”

Lowry said the Farm Day is a great educational tool. It helps the students realize food doesn’t just appear on the shelves of a grocery store, in the refrigerator or the restaurant.

“We are an agricultural county,” Lowry said. “Most of the kids nowadays, they have no idea where their food comes from. I’ve seen kids pick up the sawdust on the floor and were just amazed at it.”

Mitchell hopes to expand the Farm Day program next year.

“We wish we had the space and time to bring in all the students in fourth grade, maybe fifth,” Mitchell said. “Next year we are hoping to do a community event and turn into something along the lines of a 4 to 7 p.m. event. We can bring in more exhibitors and maybe have some scheduled programs.”

ABOVE: The Alabama Forestry Commission displayed some of its equipment at the Elmore County Extension Service Farm Day.

RIGHT: Students from Holtville Elementary School took a look at soybeans, corn and other seeds at the Elmore County Extension Service Farm Day. The students were asked to distinguish between them.

BELOW: Students from Holtville Elementary School feel cotton after it was ginned at the Elmore County Extension Service Farm Day.The machine demonstrated how quickly seed and trash removal happened when aided with the gin.

Litter clean up success for all of Elmore County

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

Elmore County commissioner Henry Hines is the self-proclaimed king of litter cleanup.

Hines is always promoting cleanups and encouraging friendly competition to make the roadways of Elmore County clean. The annual Elmore County Fall Cleanup was no different. He even challenged his fellow commissioners to see who could recruit the most volunteers. Hines bowed down to a fellow commissioner giving up his title.

“I have been the king of it in the past,” Hines said. “I have to bow now to the new queen of the fall cleanup Ms. Lewis-Jackson. She has overtaken my crown.” Jackson quickly took the title.

“Thank you, commissioner Hines,” Jackson said. “Can my crown be pink and green please?”

Both Jackson and Hines said the friendly competition benefits all of Elmore County.

“I just want to thank all the groups that came out,”

LEFT:

for a photograph. The group took part in the annual Elmore County Fall Cleanup.

Jackson said. “The NAACP, they are always there. The Elmore County Civic Improvement League, the Wetumpka Theater Guild, those young kids care. They picked up more than 30 bags” Hines had groups out as well.

“We had a lot of teams and residents take part,” Hines said. “I want to thank them for helping out by going out and picking up trash.”

Hines said ALDOT picked up litter along state roadways in Elmore County too and county employees deserved a shoutout too. They ensured volunteers had bags, vests and pickers then picked up the bagged garbage after the weekend. Hines said he will work even harder for the spring cleanup to reclaim his crown.

“I will have to work

twice as hard for the spring cleanup because she worked really hard to get people to come out and help,” Hines said. “I want congratulate her and everyone who came out to help out.”

Jackson said she is ready for the challenge but what is more important is keeping the litter off the roadways of Elmore County.

“The win was for the entirety of Elmore County,” she said. “We had a lot of

groups and individuals take part in a win for Elmore County. Let the beautifying continue.”

Hines said simple things can help prevent littering to begin with.

“I want to remind all of us, it is something we can handle everyday by just putting a bag in our car or truck,” Hines said. “When we stop to get gas, just throw it away. Let's keep Elmore County beautiful.”

Volunteers pose with litter they picked up on Ferry Road as part of the Elmore County Fall Cleanup. RIGHT: Volunteers from Good Hope Baptist Church in Fleahop pose

CLIFF WILLIAMS THE TRIBUNE

JACK’S UNDER CONSTRUCTION IN ECLECTIC

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

Afavorite of Birmingham fast-food is coming to Eclectic.

Burgers, biscuits and more will be served when Jack’s opens early next year.

“It has taken about five years to get this done,” Eclectic Mayor Gary Davenport said. “There was a lot of work on this. They finalized last month and started construction.”

Davenport said construction is expected to be completed in about three months. But as quick as the construction process is expected to be, it has taken Eclectic officials a while to get all the T’s crossed and I’s dotted with state officials.

“The biggest thing was there was a lot of infrastructure that had to be handled,” Davenport said. “There are utilities across Highway 63. We are in the process of finishing that up now. We had the sewer, water and gas company involved.”

Alabama Power is also involved in moving some power lines. The biggest hurdle was getting the new restaurant access to Highway 63 at Central Road. City officials said conversations and design meetings for changes to the road have been ongoing for almost five years.

“The original discussions with ALDOT changed because of ALDOT’s structure,” Davenport said. “We had different feedback when things started to happen. That has gone through three complete cycles. We

are going back to what we originally proposed.”

Davenport said a right turning lane will be added to the shoulder of Highway 63 headed north into the site. A left turning lane will be added to the middle of the road headed south.

Davenport said no red light will be installed at this time, but there is hope one could be installed in coming years.

“The traffic count on Highway 63 is somewhere between 40 to 50% lower than what they normally have for a state highway redlight,” Davenport said. “We are probably looking three to four years out before the intersection will require a redlight.”

All of the work being done now is with the thought of a redlight to be installed at some point in the future.

“Everything will match up perfectly,” Davenport said. “That way when that time comes, we don’t have to do any changes in the street structure. We don’t want to have to tear the roads up again and it will take a while.”

Davenport’s eyes, along with others, are watching the skies now. All are in hopes for those burgers and biscuits to be coming sooner rather than later.

“We are hoping they will be able to open a little after the first of the year,” Davenport said. “With the current weather, they are ahead of schedule. Everything is looking good. They are getting ready to do the foundation work. They have got the drainage in. We are finishing up with the water and gas.”

Elmore County volleyball falls in Sweet 16

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

Elmore County’s stellar volleyball season came to an end on Wednesday afternoon.

Elmore County fell to Rehobeth, 3-1 (25-21, 25-23, 16-25, 25-19) in the second round of the AHSAA Class 5A Super Regionals Volleyball Tournament held at the Cramton Bowl in Montgomery. The Panthers, which ended the season with a 27-8 record, had beaten Eufaula in straight sets earlier in the day to advance to the Sweet 16 round. With the loss, they fell one game short of reaching the state tournament and Elite Eight.

“I think they played with a lot of heart,” Elmore County coach Kim Moncrief said.

“They’re the best girls around and I’m really proud of them. They had a great season and there’s nobody better. We just had some things not go our way and it hurt our momentum. They’re great girls and they’re going to do really good things in life.”

The Panthers looked like they were about to cruise into the Elite Eight, but they couldn’t hold onto momentum in either the first or the second set of the match.

In the first set, Elmore

County took an early 8-3 lead and they turned that into a 14-8 lead. After a call went Rehobeth’s way, Rehobeth then turned a 5-0 run into a one-point deficit and carried that momentum into the end. Their first lead came at 18-17, and then cruised to a 25-21 first set win. In the second set, Elmore County once again jumped out early, this time an even bigger lead. The Panthers led 13-4 midway through the set, but saw that lead slowly diminish. It shrank to 17-11, then 19-15, then Rehobeth tied the game 22-22. Elmore County then scored the next point to take a onepoint lead, but it wasn’t enough as Rehobeth scored the next three points to go up, 2-0, in the match.

“We had some controversial things go against us and I think that broke some of our momentum,” Moncrief said.

“It happened at all the wrong times and it hurt. When you’re playing the game, everything's happening so fast. When something doesn’t go your way, it sometimes snowballs into other things not going your way.”

Elmore County then bounced back in a big way with a dominant third set. From start to finish, the Pan-

County’s

thers led and did not give up their lead like they had the first two sets. They won the third set, 25-16, and extended the match.

Rehobeth then turned around and did the same thing, leading from start to

finish as it clinched its state tournament berth and ended Elmore County’s season one game away from its goal.

Regardless, it was a successful season for the Panthers in Eclectic. They won their 14th-consecutive area

championship after not dropping a single game to area opponents, then won its first round of the Super Regionals in dominant fashion. They ended the season with 27 wins, which is their most in recent history.

Elmore

Anabelle

CLIFF WILLIAMS THE OBSERVER

ABOVE: Jack’s is under construction on Highway 63 in Eclectic. The location is on the northern edge of town and efforts are being made to improve the intersection with Central Road.

BELOW: Eclectic Mayor Gary Davenport said road improvements for the Jack’s includes turning lanes but no red light at the intersection with Central Road. Davenport said a traffic done by ALDOT does not show enough traffic yet for the signal.