Oct 15, 2016 Wetumpka Herald by Tallapoosa Publishers

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SATURDAY-SUNDAY • OCTOBER 15-16, 2016

THEWETUMPKAHERALD.COM

VOL. 11, NO. 39

Holtville fight ends with stabbing

By COREY ARWOOD Staff Writer

Elmore County Sheriff’s officials said a stabbing occurred at a Holtville High School football game after a “verbal altercation” turned “physical” between two 17-year-olds, one who was transported to an area hospital for two stab wounds. Michael Lasiter, a former Holtville High School student and

ex-Bulldogs wrestler was arrested and charged as an adult in the stabbing, Sheriff Bill Franklin said. Prosecutors with the local District Attorney’s Office said Lasiter had been released from Elmore County Jail after his bond was posted Friday. Franklin said Lasiter is a Wetumpka resident but had no information on why he was no longer a HHS student. “I spoke with him briefly this

morning it is my understanding that they were having an argument over something that has taken place, that they have been arguing over several weeks. It is not about a girl, it is just about rumors…” said Franklin on Friday. The incident occurred after the game, he said, near the school’s new gym, outside of the stadium. There were two wounds sustained by the unnamed victim Franklin said.

One, he said, was deep enough, “that you could probably place your thumb in,” near the victim’s kidney area. The other was described as superficial. Lasiter was charged with second-degree assault with sentences varying from one to 10 years, Franklin said. Franklin said it was a matter of See STABBING • Page 7

Millbrook councilman honored

Voters to have Election Day options

By WILLIAM CARROLL Managing Editor

Retiring Millbrook City Councilman Fred Watts received a bevy of honors during a retirement party held in his honor Thursday afternoon at the Millbrook Civic Center. Watts is retiring from the council after serving for 16 years. Among the honors Watts was recognized with included a proclamation by the Alabama Senate recognizing him for his years of service. Senator Clyde Chambliss read and presented the proclamation to Watts during the party. See HONORS • Page 3

By WILLIAM CARROLL Managing Editor

Corey Arwood / The Herald

Rep. Paul Beckman, Circuit Judge John Bush, Rep. Mike Holmes and Sen. Clyde Chambliss at the end of Bush’s retirement ceremony as a near 30-year Elmore County judge.

JUDGE BUSH RETIRES County judge retires after 3 decades By COREY ARWOOD Staff Writer

William Carroll / The Herald

Millbrook Mayor Al Kelley (left) holds up a sign that will adorn the new Freddy J. Watts Conference Room at Millbrook City Hall. Watts (right) was given several awards by state and local leaders for his service to the city of Millbrook Thursday afternoon.

Today’s

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A ceremony was held for an Elmore County judge nearing retirement from nearly 30 years on the bench and a who’s who of county judicial officials, state legislators, law enforcement and attorneys showed up to see off the outgoing judge. The standing-room-only event was rightfully held in Courtroom 1 of the Elmore County Judicial Complex. There was an entirely different atmosphere in the courtroom compared to the business of hearings and sentencings conducted only hours earlier. But it was business that Circuit Judge

John Bush performed for about 29 years and 11 months in the county. It started with an emotional introduction from his judicial assistant, Rhonda Kracke, who turned over the microphone to Judge John Bush’s pastor at Wetumpka First United Methodist Church, Brennan Peacock. Circuit Judge Sibley Reynolds presided over the ceremony, and often offered glimpses into the humorous accounts of the early days shared between the Elmore County judges. The District Attorney of the 19th Judicial Circuit, Randall Houston, spoke See JUDGE • Page 2

Local veterans share their stories of wars By WILLIAM CARROLL Managing Editor

The second installment of a monthly gathering of veterans at a local museum delved deeper into the “realities of war” versus the fantasies of young recruits and the psychological toll war takes on soldiers today compared with accounts from WWI. The tone at the Dialogues on the Experience of War meeting at the Elmore County Museum in October was different from its first month’s gathering in September. A bigger crowd had gathered to talk about their takeaways from a book of Corey Arwood / The Herald accounts from WWI. At the second meeting of the Dialogues on the Experience of War program A majority of them were veterans a number of veterans gathered to discuss their personal accounts of experifrom various military branches, and at ences with war compared with those of accounts from a short story anthology greatly varying ages. of WWI stories. In the photo, Edward Stevens, 96, displays a German Luger See VETERANS • Page 2 pistol he brought home after his time in Europe during WWII.

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Election Day is fast approaching and the Elmore County Probate Office, which handles elections in the county, is offering information and tips for voters seeking to understand the choices before them. Elmore County Probate Judge John Enslen said that there was some misinformation regarding voting that was circulating around the county that he felt needed to be cleared up, specifically regarding party ticket voters. Elmore County Elections Officer Vicki Stewart said that if voters select a straight party ticket they will still be able to select specific candidates for select races. “All ballots are coded to the races in their corresponding district,” Stewart said. “If a voter marks a straight ticket, any individual races marked will get counted as well.” Stewart explained that if a voter marks a straight party ticket for Republican or Democrat candidates the voter can go back and select individual candidates who See VOTE• Page 2

Commission hears ideas for Thames Building By WILLIAM CARROLL Managing Editor

Officials from the city of Wetumpka were on hand at Tuesday’s Elmore County Commission meeting to present their proposal to acquire the Thames building downtown, but the commission took no action on the proposal. Several months ago, the Adullam House had originally made a pitch to the commission to take over responsibility for the structure. At the earlier meeting, the Adullam House, See THAMES • Page 3

Page 2 • OCTOBER 15-16, 2016

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

ELMORE COUNTY WEEKEND

Veterans One had served in WWII, at least two others in Vietnam, while two men had served in the first Gulf War. They spanned decades of warfare and each brought with them their own accounts of their time in conflict, or in service. Even some non-military, but interested, individuals had joined to listen to the veterans and weigh in on the month’s reading. A retired Air Force veteran and author of multiple military history books, James Lawrence, led the group just as he did at the first meeting. There is one more scheduled meeting on WWI, and in November the group will meet once again at the Elmore County Museum. At the next meeting however, they will move away from their discussion of WWI literature and will discuss their new monthly assignment of watching a silent movie from 1925, “The Big Parade.” After that they have planned to move on to the Vietnam era. The group covered a wide array of subjects Tuesday. WWII veteran Edward Stevens shared from his own experiences which included joining for largely the same reasons as a Vietnam veteran, Jerry Duncan; an income and education.

continued from page 1

Corey Arwood / The Herald

At the second meeting of the Dialogues on the Experience of War program a number of veterans gathered to discuss their personal accounts of experiences with war compared with those of accounts from a short story anthology of WWI stories.

Both were responding to the account of the book’s protagonist and said they encountered similar instances of rapid deployment to war zones, both in Europe and Southeast Asia, after enlisting just on the outset of both wars. The topic shifted then from the fantasies of new recruits to the realities they found when they arrived at their new posts in foreign lands. As they shifted from

story to story in the anthology of short stories … so did their topic of discussion. And when they arrived at a story about a French soldier who had attempted suicide their talk shifted to what has been referenced as an epidemic of suicide, the widespread psychological impacts of post-traumatic stress disorder, PTSD, among those in the military. A lead organizer of the event, Chief Warrant

Officer 4 Gardner Perdue, said he worked directly with soldiers in a suicide prevention capacity. Lawrence quoted a statistic that said 22 veterans a day commit suicide. The group considered the various themes of each story within the anthology at Lawrence’s urging, and even delved into the cultural differences among those whose lands were occupied in war-time.

A veteran of the recent conflicts in the ongoing “Global War on Terrorism” in the Middle East spoke about the nature of Islam in Iraq versus what he compared it to in Kosovo, another location of his deployment, he said. He described it as “much more aggressive” from his observations on his time in Iraq. At the meeting’s end, the WWII veteran talked about

Judge

continued from page 1

next and recounted his first time encountering Bush in a courtroom as a young attorney. The Acting Chief Justice of the Alabama Supreme Court, Lyn Stuart, who recently took over after Roy Moore left office, spoke next. “I think it can truly be said that John Bush as a circuit judge has done more good and has exerted more influence than many, many, many of the people not only in this circuit but in the state,” said Stuart. She talked about her time as a circuit court judge and her first experience with Bush in his capacity as a judge. She presented a retirement citation from the Unified Judicial System, and read from the certificate of appreciation from the Alabama Court System. Shortly after, Reps. Paul Beckman and Mike Holmes along with Sen. Clyde Chambliss stood before the crowd to present Bush state commendations. “I’ve also known Judge Bush for a long time as well. My path first crossed his in the early 90’s and over the years there’s been several times where people come to me that have issues and trouble and I ask them who’s the judge, and they say Bush, and I think

Vote may not correspond with the party selection. Stewart said that the machines are coded to accept individual selections, which effectively override the straight ticket selection with respect to that race. Stewart said the machines used by the county, DS200 from Election Systems and Software read all ballots and ensure accuracy in the process. “Once you insert the ballot the machine will tell you whether there are issues with the ballot, it will tell you if you under or over voted and ask if you want to submit your ballot,” Stewart said. She said that if a voter did under vote they could complete their ballot and resubmit it via the machine. If a voter over votes (votes more than once in a particular race) they could receive another ballot to correct their over vote. She noted that the machines are coded not to accept over votes and therefore an over vote would effectively be no vote in that given race. Stewart said on Election Day voters should go to the precincts where they are registered. If voters are not sure where that is they can go to alabamavotes.gov to obtain more information. “It (the website) is a great source for any questions voters may have,” she said. Stewart said voters will

his experiences in Europe in the 1940’s. He had brought what he said was memorabilia from his time at war on the continent, and some items he had collected from that time, among which was a German Luger pistol and a camera he said he used at the time. The next meeting is scheduled for Nov. 15 at 6:30 p.m. at the Elmore County Museum.

‘You’re in trouble,’” said Chambliss, drawing laughter from the rows. Chambliss said Bush was stern but fair, and then went on to present resolutions from the State Senate and House of Representatives for outstanding professional achievement, ethics and integrity among other qualities. It said Bush had been a presiding judge in over 30,000 cases. Bush then took the podium and gave an often emotional speech recapping his near three decades in office, and his desires for the future. “Back when I first started was back in the day where the tradition in this state was that you started the opening session of court with prayer. You know we didn’t think anything about how special that was and now I realize how special that ability was,” said

Bush. “To get up here acknowledge our Lord and our God and ask for his wisdom, strength and guidance as we started this term of court.” It was a theme Bush focused on heavily throughout his time speaking. He said he heavily relied on his wife and family, and then said the circuit’s judicial system, from law enforcement to judges, were in and of themselves a kind of family. “I look forward to spending more time with Carol, spending more time with our children, and spending more time with our grandchildren,” said Bush in his closing statements. “Sometimes it’s hard to say that you really enjoy what is (a) very difficult and taxing job, but in a lot of ways I guess I have enjoyed it. It’s been a good ride…”

continued from page 1

need to bring picture identification that the poll workers will use to verify the voter’s information and ensure they receive the appropriate ballot. Stewart said that sample ballots are available at the probate office at the Elmore County Courthouse at 100 E. Commerce Street and at the Elmore County Judicial Complex located at 8935 US Highway 231.

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ELMORE COUNTY WEEKEND

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

McLeod sentenced to 20 years in prison By COREY ARWOOD Staff Writer

The mother in the infamous Winston’s Law child abuse case received the full sentence from an Elmore County district judge who had strong words for the sobbing defendant that maintained the abuse came from the boyfriend. “I’m not just this monster that people have portrayed me to be. I was not aware of all the abuse that was going on,” said Hallee McLeod, 29, of Wetumpka. The case is widely known and the physical details of the alleged abuse suffered by the then 4-year-old son of McLeod and Joey Crampton have circulated across the nation in the McLoed high profile case. At her sentencing, District Judge Ben Fuller showed pictures of the physical injuries “Winston” was said to have suffered. The images were gruesome, and Fuller held them to a choking tear-filled McLeod immediately after her impassioned plea for a reduction in her sentence. “You are evil,” said Fuller. “You are a evil creature that would allow this to happen to a 4-year-old child.” McLeod’s mother, Dot Faust, was at her side at the judge’s bench. The child’s father, Joey Crampton, stood at a distance behind McLeod and Faust to their left. “Your honor I did not do that,” McLeod said referring to the pictures of what was referenced as the badly bruised and swollen groin area of her son. She attested that the abuse came from her then-boyfriend Scott Hicks, of Wetumpka. As of September, Hicks remained in a Bay County, Florida, jail. Bay County Sheriff’s deputies initially apprehended both Hicks and McLeod in Panama City, but McLeod was extradited back to Elmore County. McLeod said she was unaware of the extent of the abuse her son allegedly suffered from Hicks. “I only want the best for Winston,” McLeod would say, shaking between sobs. Her words to Fuller before his judgment seemed to show she knew what was coming. She said she could not change the past, “But I can make the future a lot better,” said McLeod. Throughout her pleas she said that she had accepted her punishment, and occasionally asked for reductions to her 20-year sentence. Fuller seemed little swayed by this. “It is difficult just for me to maintain a judicial decorum about this,” Fuller said, who was visibly angry. “…It rings very hollow to me madame,” he said. McLeod continued her attempts to persuade Fuller. She said everything in her life at that time had revolved around her boyfriend. Reports of potential drug addiction and domestic abuse have circulated regarding McLeod’s time with Hicks. Her pleas to Fuller imploded however when she said that a lengthy sentence would punish others too, referring, it seemed to her family and her mother, Faust who serves as a registrar with Elmore County. “(The) law doesn’t allow me to impose a life sentence, it allows me to impose a 20-year sentence and that is what I’m going to do,” said Fuller. Fuller then talked directly to Faust, “I am sincerely sorry,” he said as Faust shook. However, under “Winston’s Law,” championed by District Attorney Randall Houston, Crampton and state legislators has expanded that sentencing from 10 to 99 years, for aggravated child abuse charges. Crampton has faced notoriety of his own with recent charges of third-degree domestic violence after reportedly choking his wife and throwing their infant son.

OCTOBER 15-16, 2016 • Page 3

Thames

continued from page 1

represented by Angie Spackman, suggested their willingness to take over the building on a long-term lease and put some $150,000 into the renovation of the former Elmore County Board of Education offices. According to county officials, the building has significant electrical and asbestos issues that will need to be addressed. The city’s proposal was presented by Wetumpka Planning and Program Director David Robison, who was speaking on behalf, not only of the city, but also of the Wetumpka Downtown Redevelopment Authority and Main Street Wetumpka. According to Robison, the city wants to acquire the Thames building to further its goal of revitalizing downtown. During his presentation, Robison referenced the city’s downtown vision statement and noted that the city’s vision is closer than ever to being realized due to a number of factors including the recent $850,000 sewer, water and storm sewer infrastructure project completed in 2015, and the upcoming $1.2 million streetscape project. Robison said that the city is committed to implementing market based solutions for downtown Wetumpka and cited information relating to the recent renaissance in downtown areas throughout the Gulf Coast region. He said that the city seeks to acquired the building as the first asset of the recently established Downtown Redevelopment Authority. He said the building would allow the DRA to be self sustaining in that the RDA could collect rents off of the property. Robison said it was important to convert currently unused commercial

space downtown to create a critical mass of opportunities to help grow downtown. Robison said that the city’s concept for the use of the building would be a mixed use building with commercial uses on the ground floor and either residential or office space on the upper floor. In exchange, the city wants to trade the county the parking lot on Hill Street owned by the city for the Thames building. Commissioner Trey Taylor at one point asked Robison for a valuation comparison on the two properties, which Robison said he would have to look into. During the earlier meeting where the Adullam House presented its proposal, county officials told the group that the county could not transfer the Thames property under the terms of the deed that originally gave the property to the county. Officials also stated that the deed also limited the types of uses the building would allow. According to Robison, Wetumpka attorney Regina Edwards has researched the issue and believes the county can transfer the property to the city and that the building could be used for commercial purposes so long as the proceeds were used for the Tulane Legacy. Commission Chairman David Bowen noted that there is already a lot of vacant space in downtown already and wanted to know how the city’s proposal would affect other downtown businesses. Robison said that the DRA was not interested in making a profit and that the funds it collects as a landlord would be funneled to other projects within the city.

Commissioner Joe Faulk asked Robison whether the city council had approved the project, Robison noted that Wetumpka Mayor Jerry Willis and councilmen Steve Gantt, Greg Jones and Kevin Robbins were supportive of the project, but he could not confirm that the council has approved the project (there has been no formal vote to approve the bid by the city council). Bowen suggested that the city and Adullam House sit down and attempt to reach a joint proposal. He noted that both parties had submitted interesting proposals, but that he would like them to try to work out a joint proposal if possible before he would be willing to act. No decision was made on either of the proposals for the property. In other matters before the commission: • The commission approved appointing Steve R. Forehand to the Ridge Improvement District Board and Larry Brown, Steve Dennis and Art Faulkner to the E911 Board. Forehand’s appointment passed unanimously, Brown, Dennis and Faulkner’s appointment passed by a 3-2 margin with Bowen and Commissioner Stephanie Daniels Smoke voting against. Smoke wanted to vote on the three suggested candidates individually as opposed to a group appointment. • The commission approved polling site contracts for existing polling sites at Titus Community Center, New Hope Baptist Church and Victory Baptist School. • The commission approved the fiscal year 2017 Humane Society of Elmore County Contract.

Honors

continued from page 1

Darlene Dunlap was on hand from the Millbrook Fire Department to thank Watts for his efforts on behalf of the department and to give him a plaque in honor of his service. The last presenter during the event was Millbrook Mayor Al Kelley who got emotional during his portion of the ceremony. “I am going to miss a great friend,” Kelley said noting that he would also miss Watts’ propensity for sending early morning emails about a variety of city-related questions. “The city

council will be indebted to you for what you have done.” Afterwards Kelley read a proclamation by the city naming the city council work session room after Watts. Upon receiving the honor, Watts thanked city employees for their support and understanding. Watts noted that when he first came on as a city councilman the city was still borrowing money to pay insurance and buy police cars. “You are the reason we are able to be where we are as a city,” Watts said

to city employees present during the event. “I have had 16 enjoyable years here.” Kelley said that the naming honor actually came from an incident several years ago where the mayor and Watts were returning from a function and joked about naming rooms and buildings after themselves. Kelley said during that discussion it was joked that a room in city hall would be named after Watts. “All these years later I didn’t forget about you,” Kelley said to Watts.

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Steve Baker, Publisher William Carroll, Managing Editor Opinions expressed in guest columns and letters to the editor do not necessarily reflect the viewpoint of the management of The Wetumpka Herald

Page 4 • OCTOBER 15-16, 2016

OPINION

“Our liberty cannot be guarded but by the freedom of the press, nor that be limited without danger of losing it.” --Thomas Jefferson

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

ELMORE COUNTY WEEKEND

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

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s most of you are already aware, in less that two weeks the Wetumpka Area Chamber of Commerce will kick off its inaugural Haunted History tour. The tour has been the process is the result of several months of work, including the use of a local paranormal group to investigate over a dozen buildings in downtown Wetumpka. When I first heard of this idea several months ago I thought it was a great concept. Regardless of whether you believe in paranormal activities or not, the concept sought to meld Halloween time activities with the history of Wetumpka and has done a phenomenal job accomplishing that feat. My initial thought was that the Chamber could potentially get around 100 or so people to participate in the tours and perhaps enhance interest in the project for next year. So far, well over 400 people have signed up for the event. This is a phenomenal number of participants, especially in the first year of the tour. So many have signed up that the tours are effectively

WILLIAM CARROLL Managing Editor

bursting at the seams. That means that several hundred people will be spending over three hours walking around downtown Wetumpka and learning about the city’s history. While the tour is in some respects a “ghost” tour, it is more of a history tour. The haunted aspect acts to add a sense of intrigue to the whole enterprise. During this time, many downtown businesses will be open and tour participants will get an opportunity to interact with downtown structures in a way few ever have. There has been a lot of talk about downtown revitalization. Projects like the Haunted History tour are integral to that concept. In order for a downtown to be revitalized you must give citizens a reason to come downtown. Sure shops and dining help to attract people, but

planned events have always been the true recruiter of citizens to any particular area. This event in particular entices citizens to actually look behind the façades of buildings and learn the inherent history and secrets these structures hold, thereby giving them a greater appreciation of the structures themselves. In order to make the downtown plan work we need to continue to do what the Chamber did with the Haunted History project, namely take what Wetumpka already has and enhance it. We don’t need to recreate downtown into something it is not or try to copy some other city’s success. We simply need to take the tools we already have and develop and enhance those, while retaining the charm and character of the area. If we do that we will be successful just like the upcoming tour. William Carroll is the managing editor of the Tallapoosa Publishers newspapers in Elmore County.

334-567-7811 • Fax 334-567-3284 email: news@thewetumpkaherald.com THE WETUMPKA HERALD (681-260) is published twice weekly on Wednesday and Saturday by Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc., 548 Cherokee Road, Alexander City, AL 35010. Periodical postage paid at Wetumpka, Alabama. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Wetumpka Herald, P.O. Box 99, Wetumpka, AL 360920099. ISSN # 1536-688X. We reserve the right to refuse to print any advertisement, news story, photograph or any other material submitted to us for any reason or no reason at all. •Obituaries - $.25 per word per paper. Additional $15 charge for a photo per paper. (Herald, Weekend, Observer, Tribune). •Weddings/Engagements - $.25 per word per paper. $15 charge for a 2-column photo. •Birth Announcements - $.25 per word per paper. $15 charge for a photo. SUBSCRIPTION RATES (includes Wednesday & Saturday) One Year in Elmore, Tallapoosa or Coosa County: $50 One Year Elsewhere: $75 The publisher reserves the right to change subscription rates during the term of subscription at any time. To subscribe or if you miss your paper, call 256-234-4281. © 2016 Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. All rights reserved and any reproduction of this issue is prohibited without the consent of the editor or publisher. ADMINISTRATION Steve Baker, publisher steve.baker@thewetumpkaherald.com William Carroll, managing editor william.carroll@thewetumpkaherald.com NEWS Corey Arwood, staff writer corey.arwood@thewetumpkaherald.com Carmen Rodgers, staff writer carmen.rodgers@thewetumpkaherald.com Cory Diaz, sports editor Cory.Diaz@TheWetumpkaHerald.com. . . . . . . . . Ext. 306 SALES Molly Brethauer, marketing consultant molly.brethaur@TheWetumpkaHerald.com. . . . . Ext. 305

“I

A trip through small town USA

’ve been to Birmingham, Atlanta, Savannah, all of the world,” a friend once proudly stated. Another guy said, “I liked LaFayette, but I had to get back to the city,” after moving back to Opelika. I always found these statements to be particularly funny, but it really comes down to perspective. If you happen to be from a very small town like LaFayette, then the Opelika-Auburn area is sort of a minimegalopolis, but compared to Birmingham, Atlanta or Savannah, it’s just small town USA, and there’s no place I’d rather be. Last week, I had several healthy doses of all the goodness that make small towns so remarkable. It started with back to back days in Heflin, Ala. My friend, Mayor Rudy Rooks, asked me to provide a leadership pep talk for the city’s department heads, in my own funny way, he added. As I walked up to the building, I was greeted by two gentlemen: Conrad and Goober. I’m not making this up. If Otis

JODY FULLER Guest Columnist

was the town drunk of Mayberry, then Goober is the town smoker of Heflin. There weren’t many in attendance. It is a small town after all. There were a few who attended both days, so for their benefit, I planned to change things up a little, while delivering the same overall message. I was so comfortable around these small town, salt of the earth type people, my type of people, that I just started talking and it wound up significantly different than day one. I think some of the leaders laughed louder and longer on day two, especially after making a reference to Goober. Rudy is a good man, and, like most small town mayors, wears many hats. My dad’s brother, Glenn, was once the mayor of New Site. At one time, he was the mayor, the school principal and the deer processor. If you are familiar with that area, then you know that the deer -hat may have been

his most important role. I kid, sort of. Mayors of small towns like Heflin and New Site serve their communities for all the right reasons. Over the weekend, I performed at Opelika High School reunions for the classes of 1956 and 1971, respectively. For my readers who are mathematically challenged, the class of ’56 was celebrating 60 years. The class was small and cohesive. You could tell they genuinely liked being around each other. After dinner, we moved into a smaller, quieter, more intimate room, and I did my thing, followed by a list of many reasons as to why “you might be from Opelika.” One of my favorites from the list is, “If you remember when the Golden Cherry Motel was not under new management.” The best part was when Wayne, the gentleman who arranged for me to speak, mentioned that his father and my friend, the late Harold Swindall, a WWII veteran, built the Golden Cherry. 1971 was a good year for several reasons: Walt Disney World opened, Auburn quarterback

Pat Sullivan won the Heisman Trophy and I, Jody Fuller, your humble columnist, was conceived. The icing on the cake was Opelika’s graduating class. Other than my friend who booked me for the event, I wasn’t sure who all would be there, but I knew it was going to be a special night when the first face I saw was that of my friend Dennis, who doubles as my pharmacist. I knew half the people there and knew most everyone else by the end of the evening. From the Dairy Barn’s fried chicken to Rita-Bob’s burgers to Mrs. Story’s foot-long chilidogs, faces lit up when I brought up all things Opelika, past and present. Every small town has these memories. We connected in ways that only folks in small town USA can appreciate, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. Jody Fuller is a comic, speaker, writer and soldier with three tours of duty in Iraq. He is also a lifetime stutterer. He can be reached at jody@ jodyfuller.com. For more information, please visit www.jodyfuller.com.

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ELMORE COUNTY WEEKEND

Stabbing

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

continued from page 1

“kids being kids,” but could have turned tragic. “The verbal argument turned into the physical altercation,” he said. “I don’t see the need for the knife, but I think he’s rapidly understanding the ramifications of having a knife and stabbing someone and him being 17.” Lasiter was said to have left the scene after the alleged fight, and Franklin said they found him at his mother’s house. The other student was treated by Haynes paramedics, he said, and taken to Baptist South Hospital in Montgomery. Of Lasiter’s apparently short stay in jail Franklin said about Lasiter, “I can tell you that he’s a typical 17-year-old in jail. He’s not giving us any problems I think he understands now the full magnitude and seriousness of what exactly is taking place. He’s being very cooperative.”

OCTOBER 15-16, 2016 • Page 7

County plans Veterans’ Day Tribute STAFF REPORT Elmore County Commissioners

Every Nov. 11t we celebrate Veterans Day to honor the military veterans of the United States of America and recognize their service to our country. The 8th Annual “Musical Tribute to Veterans” is hosted by Trinity Episcopal Church at 5375 US Highway 231 in Wetumpka. The event is free to the public and takes place on Friday, Nov. 11 at 6:30 p.m. The “Gallery of Honor” military exhibit will be open from 4 p.m. - 8 p.m.that day in Trinity Hall. Everyone is encouraged to provide copies of veteran’s service photos and memorabilia and may obtain an exhibit form at www.trinitywetumpka.com. This year’s tribute is dedicated to the memory of Captain Conrad Jackson

Ward who was born in Titus and was a dedicated member of Trinity Church. After graduation he served two years in the US Marine Corps followed by the US Marine Reserve for two additional years. Upon graduation from Alabama Polytechnic Institute (Auburn University), he joined the US Navy and was designated a naval aviator in 1955. He served in a number of positions during his career of over 35 years and logged more than 7,000 single pilot jet hours flying 30 different aircraft. Wetumpka’s Boy Scouts of America Troop 50 will post the colors and present a folded US flag to this year’s veteran honoree, Samuel Chester Bass. Mr. Bass served in the US Navy in the Pacific Theater during WWII. Mr. Bass served as Scoutmaster of Troop 50 from 1961 - 1972, and 14 scouts

earned their Eagle Scout during this period. Mr. Bass also served as a Wetumpka City Council member from 1970 - 1974. The evening’s entertainment will be provided by outstanding performers including the Madrigal Voices of Montgomery (directed by Gene Davis), local American Idol finalist Jess Meuse, organist Randy Foster of Montgomery, percussionist Robert Glasscock and flutist Justin Hardin of Tallassee, and the pianist trio of Charlotte Henderson, Barbara Davis and Ebba Dunn from Trinity Church. Should any veteran need transportation to the event, please call the Trinity Episcopal Church at (334) 567-7534. The Elmore County Commission salutes all our veterans and is grateful for your service to our country.

PAGE 8 • OCTOBER 15-16, 2016

EA JV volleyball repeats as state champions

SPORTS TheWetumpkaHerald.com

Visit our sister website: TallasseeTribune.com

ELMORE COUNTY WEEKEND

REGIONAL CHAMPS

By CORY DIAZ Sports Editor

Edgewood Academy junior varsity volleyball team repeated as Class A JV state champions, sweeping the state tournament Saturday at EA. The Wildcats beat Evangel Christian (25-4, 25-7), Autauga Academy (25-11, 25-6) and Marengo (25-17, 25-19) in the title match, all in straight sets, finished the year undefeated at 16-0 and winning all 32 sets during the season. Led by freshman middle Sydney Brown and freshman setter Madison White, Edgewood progressively got better as the state tournament went on, culminating with the ‘Cats pounding out 27 team kills against Marengo, who was 22-1 coming into the championship game. For the title match, Brown had 14 kills and White collected 27 assists. Eighth-graders Kelley Green and Haylee Brown added five and four kills, respectively. White garnered 55 assists and 11 serving aces for the tourney. Brown garnered a team-high 18 kills and Green finished with 10 kills.

Test drives to raise funds for WHS football, cheerleading By CORY DIAZ Sports Editor

Test driving Ford vehicles can accelerate raising money for the Wetumpka High School football team and cheerleading squad next Saturday. From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Oct. 15, a fleet of Ford cars and trucks will be on hand in the WHS parking lot, as each test drive will generate a $20 donation from Ford to support the athletic teams through Ford’s Drive 4 Ur School program. After the initial drive, if someone test drives a new 2017 Ford Escape, the motor company will give an additional $10. Wetumpka Quarterback Club president Scott Angus said the club’s goal for the event is to get 300 people to test drive vehicles, bringing potential fundraising to $8,000 that will be equally split between the football and cheerleading teams. “Jay Collier and Collier Ford have been huge supporters of the programs and really fought hard to get Ford to allow us to have this event,” Angus said.

Cory Diaz / The Herald

Edgewood Academy senior middle hitter Kevi Hansen (35) spikes the ball against North River Christian Academy Thursday during the semifinals of the Class A Region 1 tournament at EA.

‘Cats clamp down on Cornerstone, claim volleyball regional title By CORY DIAZ Sports Editor

Edgewood Academy hasn’t lost since the first week of September. The regional tournament wasn’t going to be any different, and no one knocked the Wildcats off their perch as they streaked through the tourney to claim the AISA Class A, Region 1 title, downing reigning state champions Cornerstone Christian, 3-0, in the final at home. Edgewood beat both Restoration and North River Christian in straight sets. “We really do seem to be hitting our stride,” first-year EA volleyball coach Sellers Dubberley said. “We’re playing as well as I can expect to play, and I expect a lot out of them, and hitting on all cylinders. Hopefully the girls can keep it up for one more week.” Dubberley credits his team’s current run to a 10-day break in their

schedule the week after their last loss. The ‘Cats went back and refocused on the little details during the layover, a move that’s paid dividends. “We looked at ourselves and what we needed to work on. Coming out of that break, I feel like we’ve been in our sweet spot,” the coach said. “A lot of it was attention to detail. I am a very detail-oriented coach. I think the first month of the season, they were more interested in the flash of what we could do. I simplified the offense and we rededicated ourselves to being a more detail-oriented, hustling team. Our practices got more physical, and I think that toughness and attention to detail has carried us past a lot of talented teams.” Winning 15 straight matches, including the three games during the regional tourney, the difference has been in the details for No. 4 Edgewood. Senior middle hitter Kevi Hansen

led her team that had four players with double-digit kills with 15 and earned the regional tournament MVP. She added eight aces and five blocks. Sophomore Avery Roberts totaled 14 kills, while seniors Kaylee Glenn and Morgan Brown had 12 and 10 kills, respectively. Senior setter Anna Barnes recorded 48 assists and 20 aces. Despite the 15-match win streak, the second longest in the AISA, Dubberley said he’s not ready to say EA is the team to beat. “I’d be highly surprised if teams are looking forward to playing us at this point. But I’m not ready to say that we’re favored to win,” he said. “In a single elimination tournament, it’s anybody’s to win, and we have to make sure we play our best possible volleyball.” Edgewood hosts Patrician Academy at 1 p.m. Monday in the first round of the Class A state tournament.

Montgomery lands college football kickoff game in ‘17 By CORY DIAZ Sports Editor

The newly announced Montgomery Kickoff Classic – set for Week 0 on Saturday, Aug. 26 – will help open the college football season from the historic Cramton Bowl in Montgomery. The game, to air on ESPN, will feature two of the current top-ranked FCS teams in the nation, pitting Jacksonville State University and the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. “We are pleased to be part of

college football’s opening weekend from the Cramton Bowl in Montgomery, Ala., with these two outstanding FCS programs,” said Pete Derzis, senior vice president, ESPN Events. “The greater Montgomery community has been very supportive of the Raycom Media Camellia Bowl since its inception in 2014, so to usher in the 2017 college football season and spotlight this community with their first-class facilities and staffing, is a logical choice.” City of Montgomery Mayor Todd Strange said, “The Montgomery

Kickoff Classic complements the flood of sporting events, festivals and conventions that now call Montgomery home and have helped our hotel occupancy rate soar to the highest level in the state. This signature event will make the Montgomery brand even more synonymous with sports tourism in the Southeast, and we are grateful to ESPN, the Central Alabama Sports Commission and the Chamber for bringing this first ever experience kicking-off the college football season to our city, further propelling the Capital of Dreams to

the forefront of the sports world.” Montgomery County Commission Chairman Elton N. Dean, Sr., said, “The Commission is thrilled about the opportunity to once again work with ESPN, the City of Montgomery and the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce to spotlight Montgomery County, Alabama, as a sports-loving, supportive community. The matchup between Jacksonville State and the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga will be an exciting way to kick off the 2017 college football season.”

FRIDAY NIGHT SCOREBOARD WITH GAME COVERAGE INSIDE

OCTOBER 15-16, 2016

Opelika 38 .........................Wetumpka 37 Elmore County 49 .................Holtville 21 Tallassee 26.............................. Leeds 13 Dothan 34 ..................... Stanhope Elmore 23

2016 SPORTS EXTRA

Tuscaloosa Acad. 43 .............Edgewood 0 Helena 35 ................ Benjamin Russell 24 Handley 50 ..........................Dadeville 13 Horseshoe Bend 7 ..............Fayetteville 0

Reeltown 40 .......................... Vincent 15 Montgomery Acad. 39 ...Central-Coosa 22

SPORTS EXTRA October 15-16, 2016

High school football from The Alexander City Outlook, The Wetumpka Herald & The Tallassee Tribune

Wetumpka junior defensive end Rico Bozeman (8) sacks Opelika quarterback John David Worth (16) during Friday’s region contest.

ALABAMA’S BIGGEST WEEKLY HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL EDITION

2016 SPORTS EXTRA

OCTOBER 15-16, 2016

Opelika 38, Wetumpka 37

Cory Diaz/ The Wetumpka Herald

Wetumpka sophomore quarterback Jadarious Martin (18) looks to throw downfield against Opelika during Friday’s Class 6A, Region 3 clash at Hohenberg Field.

Late penalty dooms Tribe v. No. 4 Opelika By Cory Diaz The Wetumpka Herald

How fickle special teams can be. Wetumpka returned two kickoffs back for scores, but a converted extra point provided Opelika with just enough cushion to slip by the Indians, 38-37, for the Class 6A, Region 3 championship clinching win Friday at Hohenberg Field. Running backs Kavosiey Smoke and DeAndre Williams both tallied 80-yard return touchdowns for No. 10 Wetumpka (7-2, 3-2) during the marquee top-10 matchup, but a missed PAT from senior Tyler Loza after Williams’ romp gave WHS a 37-31 advantage with 6:19 left in the game. After a big play from Jordan Heard, senior running back Weldrin Ford scored his third rushing touchdown from 6 yards with 4:57 to go to tie the game, and a made PAT from senior Austin Blackmon put No. 4 Opelika (8-1, 5-0) ahead, 38-37. “They have big playmakers and

they made some plays,” Dawgs head football coach Brian Blackmon said. “Then we settled in a little bit, kicking game hurt us some, but at the same time that’s what won the ballgame for us.” There was plenty of time left on the clock for Wetumpka, who had gained 305 yards on offense to that point. But on a fourth-and-inches play at the 48, the Indians were flagged for an illegal procedure on a shift that sunk the Tribe with 2:02 to go and no timeouts. “They really didn’t have an explanation,” Wetumpka head football coach Tim Perry said of the controversial penalty. “I asked were their hands down. We’ve been shifting for four years in that situation, and thing about it is they didn’t know. They couldn’t tell me that the linemen’s hands were down. I know their hands weren’t down. Three times a week, every week, we’ve been doing it. “I hate it. You don’t know what might’ve happened. I don’t know if we would’ve scored, but it would at

least have given us an opportunity.” Things got off to an ideal start for the Indians, notching touchdowns on its first two possessions. on the fifth play from scrimmage, sophomore quarterback Jadarious Martin broke free up the middle for a 52-yard score. Smoke capped a 10-play, 3:49 drive, plowing in from 2 yards, putting WHS up, 14-0, with 3:53 left in the opening period. Martin ended the night with 186 yards on 21 rushes and the score. Being down before this season, Blackmon said the Dawgs didn’t panic. “The more times you’re in those situations, the more you have to draw on. You’ve had past success and you bring those things back up and keep that confidence level that it takes to withstand that,” Blackmon said. “We made some big plays in the passing game with Jaleel Heard and Jordan Heard, both made really big plays for us. John David Worth did a tremendous job for us, but Weldrin Ford tonight was unbelievable for us.

I think in the first half, he had 123 yards on eight carries at halftime.” Opelika began it comeback, scoring 17 straight points in less than four minutes, before Smoke’s kickoff return for touchdown. Riding Ford, the Bulldogs grabbed the lead back at the 2:39 mark, after a 5-yard run from the tailback, at 24-21, where the score stood at halftime. Robert Laprade picked off a Worth pass on the second half’s first drive, and the Tribe cashed the turnover in, tying things up on a 37-yard Loza field goal. Williams put Wetumpka ahead, 31-24, on a 32-yard rushing score, with 7:09 left in the game, but the Dawgs answered in two plays with Jaleel Heard catching and sprinting 77 yards for the tying touchdown, at 31-31, 38 seconds later. “The thing I was so proud about was every time they made a play, we answered,” Perry said. “How many See PENALTY, Page 3

OCTOBER 15-16, 2016

2016 SPORTS EXTRA

Cory Diaz/ The Wetumpka Herald

Top left: Opelika senior running back Weldrin Ford (26) dives over the goalline for a touchdown against Wetumpka. Above: Indian head football coach Tim Perry celebrates a touchdown. Left: Junior running back Kavosiey Smoke (7) examines the field for a hole during Friday’s Region 3 battle.

Penalty teams return two kickoffs for touchdowns in a game? Our guys confidence never dropped. They know, they read about Opelika and their ranking. But they went out, played them toe-to-toe. “Don’t know if I’ve been prouder of another team. Definitely the underdog, and Opelika’s defense has been only averaging giving up 13 points a game. We were able to put 37 on them. We didn’t win the football game on the scoreboard, but our guys won it through playing with so much passion, heart and confidence in each other.” As the teams traded blows late in the game, Blackmon said he was proud to be a part of the top-10 battle. “I had a little anxiety, but for the most part I was having fun. It was two great cities, communities, that put their high school boys on the field and said, ‘y’all go at it,’” Blackmon said. “It was a back-andforth night. “We made one extra play prob-

continued from page 2

ably than they did, but at the end of the day, neither team deserved to lose that ballgame. They fought their tails off, coach Tim Perry and his staff ought to be commended, not only for way play game, but their character and class.”

Hosted by The Wetumpka Area Chamber of Commerce Central Alabama Paranormal Investigations $15 Walking Tour of Downtown Commercial buildings WEDNESDAY, OCT. 26TH - TOUR THURSDAY, OCT. 27TH - TOUR FRIDAY, OCT. 28th - TOUR SATURDAY, OCT. 29TH - TOUR EXTENDED TOURS AVAILABLE FOR $40 For more information contact us at www.wetumpkachamber.com **Tours not recommended for small children due to length of tour**

2016 SPORTS EXTRA

OCTOBER 15-16, 2016

Helena 35, BRHS 24

Benjamin Russell’s NeColby Maxwell has his face mask grabbed on a fourth quarter run. There was a flag on the play that appeared to be going against Maxwell as he used a stiff arm to the face of the Helena defender. But after officials huddled up and looking at this picture, the call went the Wildcats way. Kenneth Boone / The Outlook

Helena puts Benjamin Russell playoffs berth on hold By MITCH SNEED Editor

Clinching a playoff berth for the Benjamin Russell Wildcats will have to wait after Helena stunned the Wildcats Friday night at the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex. Helena came into the game 2-6 and 1-3 in Class 6A, Region 3 play, but you would have never known it. The Huskies took advantage of Benjamin Russell mistakes and rolled to a 35-24 win. The loss drops Benjamin Russell to 3-5 overall and 3-2 in region play with

a key matchup with Wetumpka next Friday night. It was a story that has become all too familiar for the Wildcats this season. They fell behind early, battled back, then a big third quarter by the Huskies sealed Benjamin Russell’s fate. Helena’s Devan Walker led all rushers with 25 carries for 152 yards and a touchdown against a Wildcats’ defense that was missing its leading tackler Benjamin Hendrix. The junior linebacker missed the game with a knee injury. NeColby Maxwell had 101 yards

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rushing and ran for two scores. He also caught a touchdown pass for the Wildcats. Quarterback Landon Cotney had a rough start, but threw for 181 yards and one touchdown, but most of those yards came after the Huskies had a big lead. The Huskies took advantage of mistakes for first-half points, as Benjamin Russell struggled to make plays on offense. Nash Adams got a hand on a Dylan Moncus punt and set the Huskies up at the Benjamin Russell 46-yard line. Helena quarterback Riley Davis was

locked in, hitting Dionte Tolbert for big chances of yardage. Davis hit Jake Busby for a 13-yard touchdown to cap the 46-yard drive, making it 7-0 with 6:37 still left in the first period. Davis finished the game going 12-18 passing for 188 yards and two scores. He also ran for two touchdowns. Late in the second quarter, another Wildcats’ miscue led to Helena points. A mishandled pitch from Cotney to Maxwell hit the ground and was recovered by Helena’s Christian Young at the Wildcats 5 yard line. Two plays later, Walker plunged See BRHS • Page 5

OCTOBER 15-16, 2016

2016 SPORTS EXTRA

BRHS

continued from page 4

Mitch Sneed / The Outlook

Benjamin Russell’s Timmy Lawson pickups yardage after taking a snap from the Wildcat formation Friday night against Helena. Above right, a majorette plays to the crowd during halftime. Below, Jacorie Gonzales (38) and Latravious Gray take down a Helena player.

in for a 2-yard touchdown for the Huskies, making it 14-0 with 2:31 left in the half. Helena went with an onside kick and Tyler Watts alertly scooped up the ball for Benjamin Russell and returned it to the Helena 31. Four plays later Maxwell scored from 1 yard ou-, a touchdown that was set up by a 17-yard pass from Cotney to Kobi Crabb. Helena wasn’t content to take a 7-point lead into the break. Getting the ball on its own 20 with 1:16 left, the Huskies went the distance in just four plays, with Davis calling his own number for a 1-yard score with 0:42 to play in the half. Down 21-7, Cotney completes four straight passes to set up a 38-yard Moncus field goal, making it 21-10 at the half. Helena put the game out of reach for the Wildcats in the third quarter, getting a 4-yard touchdown from Davis on the keeper off left

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tackle and then he hit Randall Tolbert on a bubble screen and he raced 51 yards for a touchdown to make it 35-10 with 5:11 still left in the third quarter. Tolbert finished the night with 10 catches for 128 yards. Maxwell added a 3-yard scoring run for the Wildcats on the second play of the fourth quarter and caught a 3-yard scoring pass from Cotney with 1:19 to play. The same two hooked up for the two-point conversion, making it 35-24. But that was as close at it would get. The Wildcats will have to bounce back quickly, as they badly need a win over the 7-2 Wetumpka Indians, who are also 3-2 in region play after a heart-breaking 38-37 loss to Opelika Friday night. Helena will travel to Chelsea next week for a must-win game if the Huskies hope to keep their playoff hopes alive.

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2016 SPORTS EXTRA

Reeltown 40, Vincent 14

Reeltown’s Liotez Lewis, right, gets some words of encouragement from Rebels’ Coach Matt Johnson just before the kickoff of Friday’s game with Vincent. Below, the Rebels captains from left, Horrance Smith, Cole Flurry, Randy Woodward, and Trakevon Hughley prepare to move to the center of the field for the coin flip Friday night. David Granger / The Outlook

Rebels put Vincent away early in victory at home By DAVID GRANGER Staff Writer

REELTOWN – Reeltown head football coach Matt Johnson said he wanted to see two things from his Rebels Friday night. He wanted to see them compete and he wanted to see them face adversity. He got the adversity early,

but it didn’t last long as the Rebels kept the Vincent Yellow Jackets out of the end zone after their clock-gobbling drive took up most of the first quarter, then subtly began to put away a 40-15 win over the visitors here at Nix-Webster-O’Neal Stadium. “I wanted to see a little adversity and see our guys compete and they did a good job,” said Johnson. “But we put it away

early on and got some guys some playing time that have been working their butts off on the scout team. That’s always good for the kids, too. “I was happy with the physicality and the effort tonight. We’ve got to play with 100 percent effort for four quarters in order for us to be successful and we stepped it up a little bit tonight, especially from last See REBELS • Page 16

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2016 SPORTS EXTRA

Tuscaloosa Acad. 43, Edgewood 0

TA shuts out Edgewood By KaRon Caddell For The Wetumpka Herald

It was quite a senior night to remember for Tuscaloosa Academy as the Knights cruised to 43-0 victory the Edgewood Wildcats on Friday night. The Knights decided to show their appreciation for their seniors early in the game. Senior wide receiver Matthew Reid caught a 14-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Alex Johnson. Senior running back Garrett Noland also added a 1-yard touchdown run. Both touchdown came in the first quarter. “Our seniors played great. Matt Reid made a ESPN grab in the end zone,” Tuscaloosa Academy coach Robert Johnson said. “Garrett Noland, our other senior, made some great runs for us and made some great plays at linebacker.” The Knights set the tone early on Jalelon Chambers’ 64-yard touchdown run and Deilo Richardson’s 39-yard touchdown run. By Halftime, the Knights had a 36-0

lead and did not let up in the second half. The Knights added a 64-yard touchdown run from running back Titus Gardner, who returned a punt for a 46-yard touchdown earlier in the game. They also decided to milk the clock by turning to their rushing attack led by running back Kevin McNeal. “It’s kind of is what is it with our situation now. We’ve kind of been through it every week this season. We got a lot of young kids trying to compete at a high level and they doing their best they can to get by, but we’ve persevered through it a lot” Wildcats coach Eric Folmar said. “As young as we are, we are really beat up on top of that. We are only dressing 19 kids right now, playing AAA ball, and 15 of them are junior-high school students. We don’t scoreboard watch. We just go out and do the best we can.” Tuscaloosa Academy (3-4) hosts Lee-Scott to close out the the season next Friday. The Wildcats (0-9) host Bessemer Academy. courtesy of the Tuscaloosa News

Above Right: Edgewood 8th grader Mitchell Boyd struggles for yards against Tuscaloosa Academy Friday night in Tuscaloosa. The Wildcats are 0-9 this season. Below: Yards were hard to come by all night for the Wildcats.

OCTOBER 15-16, 2016

2016 SPORTS EXTRA

Handley 50, Dadeville 13

Dadeville falls to Handley as Buchanan misses 2nd half

By CLIFF WILLIAMS Outlook Staff Writer

Dadeville’s playoff status is unknown with one game remaining in the season. With the Tigers’ 50-13 loss to Handley and Tallassee’s 26-13 victory over Leeds, Dadeville must win its game Thursday night at Childersburg and will still need help. “We put ourselves in a predicament men,” a disappointed Richard White told his team. “Now we have to hope Elmore County beats Tallassee or we are not in the playoffs. I told you that this ballgame was important. We will have to come back Monday and work.” Coming into the game, it looked like it was going to be a showdown between two athletes – Handley running back Spanky Watts and Dadeville’s Margarius “Scooter” Buchanan. As if the playoff status was bad enough, Tiger standout Buchanan did not play the second half due to an injury on a 35-yard reception late in the first half from Donquavious Tucker putting a damper on what could have been a highlight reel of two opposing athletes. White said Buchanan’s status for the road game in Childersburg is also unknown. “He has a pulled hamstring,” White said. “Hopefully we can get that thing worked out this week. We may have to hold him out of Thursday’s game. I don’t know yet. We will have to see how he progresses.” Up until then, Buchanan was

Cliff Williams / The Outlook

Dadeville’s Margarius Buchanan cuts back on the Handley defense in the first half. Buchanan sat out the second half with a pulled hamstring. Just in the first half, Buchanan had touchdown runs of 81 and 3 yards.

putting on a show. In likeness of his nickname Scooter, he rushed 11 times for 109 yards with two touchdown runs of 81 yards and 3 yards while passing the ball eight times with five completions and even had a pass reception of 35 yards. The Tiger star started to show the injury during his 81-yard run for a touchdown with just under six minutes left in the first half.

Handley took advantage a Dadeville miscue, as the Tigers were backed up to the own 6-yardline and trying to rest Buchanan. A snap went over the head of Slade McCullars and Handley recovered the fumble for touchdown and following PAT, the score was 29-13. With only one timeout remaining, Dadeville attempted to go the length of the

field with one-minute left in the half. The Tigers came up short at the 3 yardline as the buzzer sounded for the half. The drive included a 35-yard pass by Donquavious Tucker to Buchanan. Buchanan was aided in the rushing category by Phillip Russell who rushed for 73 yards on 16 carries. Buchanan was replaced at quarterback by McCullars

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and Russell took a couple snaps in the Wildcat formation. Tucker completed the one pass to Buchanan and ran for 17 yards on four carries. McCullars was 5 of 13 for 36 yards and one interception that was returned by Handley’s Jared Sears for a touchdown. White was complementary of Handley’s Watts. “He is a good running back,” See Dadeville • Page 9

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2016 SPORTS EXTRA

Dadeville

continued from page 8

Cliff Williams / The Outlook

Dadeville’s Donquavious Tucker, above left, looks for a hole as he runs against Handley. Above right, Phillip Russell tries to break the tackle of Handley’s Cardarious Burton. While below, Russell tries to bring down Handley’s Malik Meadows.

White said. “We knew that coming in He has been good all season long. He was good last year. We just got it hand to us tonight is what happened.” Watts carried the ball 12 times for 133 yards with touchdown scampers of 25 and 5 yards. With the game in hand at 43-13, Watts, nor many other Handley starters saw action in the fourth quarter. Watts was aided by his quarterback Rhett Fetner who went 8 for 13 for 115 yards, two of those for touchdowns of 8 and 5 yards and one interception Thursday night the Tigers travel to Childersburg in a must win matchup.

White prepared his team for what lies ahead. “Hopefully we will have a little luck down in Eclectic next Friday night,” White told his team. “If not, Thursday will be the last game for us.” An emotional Buchanan did not want his teammates to leave the field with their heads down afterwards. “Hey look,” Buchanan told his comrades just before breaking it down. “No matter what the scoreboard reads a the end of the ballgame, we are still brothers. We bled. We sweat. We shed a tear and we are still a family. And no matter what happens next, I love y’all boys. I love y’all.”

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2016 SPORTS EXTRA

OCTOBER 15-16, 2016

Dothan 34, Stanhope Elmore 23

File photo/ The Wetumpka Herald

Senior running back Kareem Jackson has been a workhorse for the Mustangs this year. The Mustangs had a strong first half but could not hold off Dothan losing 34-23.

Dothan comeback knocks off Mustangs By Jeremy Wise For The Wetumpka Herald

Keven Jackson hovered over the huddled mass that was his Dothan football team and had nothing to say after his Tigers’ game with Stanhope Elmore Friday night. The scene contradicted the one that occurred just one half of football prior. After struggling offensively in the first half, the Tigers turned to Tyson Williams for three touchdowns – part of a 28-0 spurt that powered the Tigers to a 34-23 victory over the Mustangs. The victory keeps Dothan’s playoff hopes alive, and the Tigers (3-6 overall, 2-3 Class 6A, Region 2) can clinch next week with a win over winless rival Northview. As impressive as the Tigers’ second-half effort was offensively, it was that putrid in the first half. Dothan scored the first points of the game on a short drive following Kendarrius Martin’s 59-yard kickoff return, but the Tigers managed just 37 yards of total offense in the first two quarters. That led to some... encouragement from Jackson at halftime as his team trailed 17-6 at the break. “Me going off on them – I thought they quit on me,” the first-year head coach said. “I talked to them hard in

the locker room, got on their butt and challenged each and every guy.” The Tigers, especially the seniors who were watching their final chance at a playoff berth wane, responded well. The Mustangs (3-5, 2-3) upped their lead to 23-7 following an impressive nine-play, 55-yard drive that featured powerful running from quarterback Phillip Warlick III. He carried four times for 30 yards, including the finishing 10-yard touchdown plunge. The Tigers, though, responded with a powerful drive behind seniors Bubba McDaniel and Williams. McDaniel, the Tigers’ signal caller, rushed five times for 53 yards. His rushes opened room for a 6-yard touchdown run from Williams. Ahkim Walden’s extra point cut the Mustangs’ lead to 23-13 with 3:52 left in the third quarter. “I got on their butt,” Jackson said of challenging his leaders. “I told them guys, ‘You’re a senior. It may be your last (chance) to make it to the playoffs. If you lose this, you go home. You’ve just got Northview, and that’s it. Your high school career is over.’ They took my challenge.” Early in the fourth quarter, the Tigers’ special teams blocked a quick punt attempt from Stanhope – giving Dothan the ball at the 50.

McDaniel and Williams took advantage, connecting on a 25-yard strike to the 1 on a fourth-and-7 situation from the 26. One play later, Williams punched the ball past the goal line. Dothan trailed 23-20 with 7:46 left to play. “I just had to overcome adversity. At first, we were just frustrated because we couldn’t get our offense going,” Williams said. “We just had to have a little talk at halftime, come out and change the game.” With the pressure mounting, Stanhope committed a crucial error when Warlick fumbled as he tried to run out of bounds. The ball stayed in play, and Martin fell on it at the Mustangs’ 36. Dothan, seeing an opportunity to seize control, dialed up a bomb from McDaniel to Williams. The play worked for a 36-yard score, putting the Tigers up 27-23 with 6:47 left in the game. The play highlighted Williams’ brilliant second half, a period in which he tallied 94 of his 111 offensive yards (13 rushing, 98 receiving). “He’s our whole offense, and we got to get him more touches,” Jackson said. “You see what he (does) when he gets more touches: he keeps us in the game and we make big plays.” The Tigers made another key spe-

cial teams play on the Mustangs’ next drive. Facing a fourth-and 5 from their own 38, the Mustangs tried for a fake punt run from Quinaz Turner, but the Tigers stopped him for a 1-yard loss. Dothan converted the turnover on downs into points on Martin’s 18-yard touchdown run with 2:21 left. Both teams had misfires at times on offense. Stanhope tallied 284 yards to Dothan’s 223. Warlick completed 10-of-30 passing for 111 yards – 61 of those to Keldric Martin. Kareem Jackson powered the running attack with 139 yards on 27 carries and the Mustangs’ only offensive touchdown in the first half. K.J. Stokes returned an interception of a McDaniel pass 35 yards for Stanhope’s other first-half score. For Dothan, McDaniel completed nine of his 18 throws for 116 yards, a touchdown and two interceptions. He led the ground attack with 72 yards on 16 carries. After beginning the season 1-4, the Tigers can complete a season turnaround with a victory over Northview next week. Williams enjoys the thought. “It feels good,” he said. “We’re gonna take it one step at a time and get these Ws.”

OCTOBER 15-16, 2016

2016 SPORTS EXTRA

Horseshoe Bend 7, Fayetteville 0

Horseshoe Bend triumphs over Fayetteville By CATHY HIGGINS Sports Editor

Horseshoe Bend walked away with a 7-0 win over Fayetteville tonight in front of the home crowd at Generals Stadium. While the Generals’ finished the game with 284 yards with 28 carries, it was the dream team of Cade Worthy and Trace Meadows who worked together to make the lone score of the night. It was in the final seconds of the first quarter when Worthy passed the ball to Meadows, who made two men miss and then raced 49 yards for the touchdown with just 0:34 left in the quarter. Worthy followed that up with his own point after to bring the score to 7-0. There the score stood the remainder of the game, as if it was etched in stone. But that wasn’t for a lack of action on the field. There were several touchdowns from both teams. But they all got erased when flags were thrown. Fayetteville had a score taken off See Generals • Page 16

Horseshoe Bend’s Reuben Jackson (16) and Dakota Hill work to take down Fayetteville Cody Pate on the carry.

Kenneth Boone / The Outlook

OCTOBER 15-16, 2016

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Football Statewide scores AHSAA interclass

Aliceville 48, Greene County 12 Carroll 45, Escambia County 0 Davidson 50, Jackson 49 Enterprise 42, Demopolis 0 Southside-Selma 44, CentralHayneville 16 West Point 50, Good Hope 6

Auburn 38, Smiths Station 7 Bob Jones 51, Grissom 6 Central-Phenix City 59, LeeMontgomery 28 Gadsden City 62, Sparkman 27 Hewitt-Trussville 49, Huntsville 26 Hoover 38, Vestavia Hills 7 James Clemens 21, Buckhorn 14 Jeff Davis 41, Prattville 29 Mary G. Montgomery 28, Foley 14 McGill-Toolen 42, Baker 7 Mountain Brook 41, Oak Mountain 27 Murphy 24, Fairhope 22 Spain Park 35, Tuscaloosa County 0 Theodore 25, Alma Bryant 3 Thompson 13, Huffman 7 (OT)

Albertville 41, Fort Payne 14 Austin 24, Muscle Shoals 21 B.C. Rain 24, Baldwin County 21 Bessemer City 35, Paul Bryant 14 Chelsea 63, Chilton County 35 Cullman 56, Southside-Gadsden 35 Daphne 28, Blount 18 Decatur 41, Hartselle 30 Dothan 34, Stanhope Elmore 23 Florence 54, Columbia 20 Gardendale 34, Pinson Valley 31 Hazel Green 20, Athens 7 Helena 35, Benjamin Russell 24 Hillcrest-Tuscaloosa 61, Brookwood 14 Homewood 27, Shades Valley 21 LeFlore 30, Robertsdale 20 McAdory 38, Selma 14 Minor 54, Clay-Chalkville 28 Opelika 38, Wetumpka 37 Oxford 37, Pell City 3 Park Crossing 13, Sidney Lanier 10 Ramsay 48, John Carroll Catholic 14

Alexandria 36, Guntersville 25 Arab 67, Douglas 6 B.T. Washington 44, Greenville 37 Beauregard 54, Cleburne County 14 Briarwood Christian 43, Shelby County 21 Brooks 63, St. John Paul II Catholic 13 Calera 42, Sumter Central 32 Central-Clay County 49, Sylacauga 34 Central-Tuscaloosa 24, Marbury 20 Charles Henderson 28, Rehobeth 0 Citronelle 50, Williamson 26 Corner 34, Springville 24 Etowah 56, Crossville 21 Eufaula 55, Headland 14 Faith Academy 37, Wilcox Central 12 Hayden 50, Fairview 40 Lawrence County 42, LeeHuntsville 20 Mae Jemison-Huntsville 54, Ardmore 28 Mortimer Jordan 34, Curry 6 Russellville 35, East Limestone 14 Scottsboro 56, Boaz 14 St. Clair County 39, Moody 35 Talladega 31, Valley 27

Vigor 38, St. Paul’s 35 Wenonah 33, Fairfield 7

Andalusia 35, W.S. Neal 8 Bibb County 19, West Blocton 0 Cherokee County 57, Ashville 22 Deshler 41, Danville 14 Fayette County 45, Winfield 44 Greensboro 30, Oak Grove 0 Hale County 52, Sipsey Valley 38 Haleyville 42, Dora 6 Handley 50, Dadeville 13 Hokes Bluff 35, Anniston 6 Jacksonville 60, White Plains 20 Madison Academy 49, North Jackson 7 Madison County 44, Sardis 18 Montgomery Catholic 46, Bullock County 28 Munford 45, Childersburg 12 Northside 49, Holt 8 Randolph 56, DAR 21 Saks 27, Oneonta 24 Satsuma 36, Monroe County 12 St. James 40, Dale County 7 Tallassee 26, Leeds 13 Thomasville 42, UMS-Wright 30 Trinity Presbyterian 20, Ashford 7 West Limestone 56, CentralFlorence 32 Wilson 48, Priceville 7

American Christian 42, Midfield 6 Clements 35, East Lawrence 20 Colbert County 49, Lexington 6 Daleville 48, Straughn 37 Flomaton 29, Excel 0 Geraldine 42, New Hope 28 Gordo 56, Montevallo 21 Hillcrest-Evergreen 48, Cottage Hill Christian 30 Lauderdale County 37, Colbert Heights 14 Locust Fork 49, Hanceville 35 Mobile Christian 36, Clarke County 21 Montgomery Academy 39, Central-Coosa 22 Oakman 54, Carbon Hill 16 Opp 55, Geneva 23 Piedmont 45, Ohatchee 35 Pike County 34, Beulah 7 Pisgah 20, North Sand Mountain 14 Prattville Christian 33, B.B. Comer 14 Randolph County 61, Weaver 41 Slocomb 34, Houston Academy 8 Susan Moore 35, Vinemont 21 Sylvania 20, Plainview 0 T.R. Miller 28, Bayside Academy 23 Walter Wellborn 35, Glencoe 28 West Morgan 22, Elkmont 15 Wicksburg 29, Providence Christian 14

Ariton 54, Abbeville 46 Billingsley 41, Thorsby 7 Cottonwood 34, Barbour County 20 Elba 50, Luverne 15 Falkville 47, Winston County 14 Fyffe 62, Section 0 G.W. Long 30, Samson 21 Gaston 53, Westbrook Christian 10 Hatton 26, Phil Campbell 20 Horseshoe Bend 7, Fayetteville 0 Ider 47, Asbury 27 Keith 34, R.C. Hatch 22 LaFayette 68, Ranburne 7 Lamar County 24, Sheffield 21 Lanett 56, Woodland 13 Leroy 38, Chickasaw 29

New Brockton 49, Goshen 27 Red Bay 30, Sulligent 29 Reeltown 40, Vincent 15 Sand Rock 34, Collinsville 0 Southern Choctaw 48, Choctaw County 15 Tanner 50, Cold Springs 21 Tarrant 21, Cleveland 20 Verbena 50, Francis Marion 15 Washington County 75, St. Luke’s 54 Zion Chapel 56, Calhoun 22

A.L. Johnson 50, McIntosh 6 Addison 37, R.A. Hubbard 20 Berry 32, Marion County 20 Brantley 57, Florala 0 Cedar Bluff 41, Jacksonville Christian 12 Coosa Christian 21, Gaylesville 18 Decatur Heritage 42, Sumiton Christian 20 Fruitdale 68, J.F. Shields 0 Georgiana 57, Pleasant Home 3 Hackleburg 34, Vina 12 Houston County 55, Kinston 14 Isabella 42, Notasulga 14 Linden 56, Marengo 22 Loachapoka 27, Highland Home 13 Lynn 33, Shoals Christian 26 Maplesville 55, Autaugaville 0 McKenzie 27, Red Level 12 Meek 62, Southeastern 45 Pickens County 50, Hubbertville 37 Ragland 55, Donoho 31 South Lamar 49, Brilliant 7 Spring Garden 45, Holy Spirit Catholic 0 Sweet Water 41, Millry 6 Talladega County Central 52, Appalachian 13 Wadley 34, Winterboro 0 Waterloo 29, Phillips 20 Woodville 20, Valley Head 8

AISA

Abbeville Christian 56, Crenshaw Christian 13 Autauga Academy 49, Clarke Prep 0 Bessemer Academy 42, Glenwood 18 Chambers Academy 50, Sparta Academy 6 Cornerstone Christian 22, MaconEast 19 Escambia Academy 39, Lighthouse Private Christian (Fla.) 0 Evangel Christian-Montgomery 48, Coosa Valley Academy 25 Jackson Academy 21, Pickens Academy 20 Lakeside School 70, Kingwood Christian 34 Lee-Scott Academy 62, Springwood 28 Lowndes Academy 15, South Montgomery County Academy 2 Marengo Academy 35, Evangel Christian-Alabaster 19 Monroe Academy 34, Fort Dale Academy 14 Northside Methodist 28, Morgan Academy 6 Patrician Academy 52, Sumter Academy 13 Pike Liberal Arts 45, Hooper Academy 0 South Choctaw Academy 33, Southern Academy 20 Tuscaloosa Academy 43, Edgewood Academy 0 Wilcox Academy 32, North River Christian 6

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OCTOBER 15-16, 2016

2016 SPORTS EXTRA

Tallassee 26, Leeds 13

File photo/ The Tallassee Tribune

Freshman Barry Purter has been a contributor this year for the Tigers in this action from last week. The Tigers took the fight to Leeds this week with a 26-13 victory moving into a third place tie in the region.

Tallassee dominates Leeds in the trenches By Tim Horton For The Tallassee Tribune

The Tallassee Tigers made the trip up to Leeds High School to play the back to back defending, 4A State Champions. Tallassee was not intimidated in the least. Tallassee had almost everyone back for this crucial game and during the first half, they played really physical team football. The “Big Boys” up front had made up their mind that they would outplay Leed’s big guys and they did. It began with the opening kickoff as Leeds mishandled it and Tallassee pounced on it at the Leeds 34 yard line. It would only take four plays before quarterback Casey Baynes pushed his way into the endzone

from 5 yards out. The PAT failed and Tallassee led 6-0. Leeds fought back as they drove 62 yards with their junior quarterback, Zack Roberts running in from the 1-yard line for the touchdown. The PAT sailed through for a 7-6 Leeds advantage. Tallassee would answer with an 87 yard drive. Casey Baynes would cover the final 30 yards after his offensive line blew open a huge hole for him. The scoring was done for the first half with Tallassee leading 12-7. Leeds showed the grit that has made them champions the last two years as they took their first possession in the third quarter and scored in three plays, the touchdown came

on a 46 yard pass from Roberts to wide-out Chandler Teems. It would be the last lead of the night for Leeds though at 13-12. Tallassee’s offensive line of Baker, Talley, Stewart, Pugh and Kidd began to own the larger defensive line from Leeds. Tallassee leaned on their running game and owned the clock all through the game but especially in the 2nd half. The Tigers had drives lasting 6 ½ minutes and 5 minutes in the second half plus three other shorter possessions. The Tigers would add an 11 yard misdirection rushing touchdown from Trent Cochran-Gill and a four yard rushing touchdown from Markevious Mathews. Tallassee would win 26-13 but there is so

much more to this story. The Tigers totally out-played Leeds holding them to 86 yards rushing and 226 yards total. Tallassee racked up 226 yards on the ground on 53 rushes. Markevious Mathews ran 19 times for 102 yards, Baynes ran 20 times for 71 yards while throwing eight times, completing seven for 85 yards. Tallassee pulled into a third place tie in the area with Leeds both holding a 6-3 overall record and both now being 4-2 in the area. Tallassee, by beating Leeds holds the tie breaker over them. Tallassee travels to Elmore County next week and can finish 2nd or 3rd in the area with a win. Leeds will visit Munford.

2016 SPORTS EXTRA

OCTOBER 15-16, 2016

Elmore County 49, Holtville 21

Cory Diaz/ The Wetumpka Herald

Elmore County senior defensive tackle Jakobi Bickley (55) pursues Holtville senior quarterback Zach Weldon (3) during Thursday night’s Class 4A, Region 3 rivalry game at Boykin Field.

Panthers spoil rival Bulldogs’ Senior Night By Cory Diaz The Wetumpka Herald

Both defenses forced seven combined turnovers, but Elmore County’s offense moved the ball better through big plays and pulled away from county rival Holtville, 49-21, Thursday night at Boykin Field. The Panthers stubbed their toe with three touchdowns called back on penalties in the first and four turnovers but overcame the miscues. “It’s better to win than lose,” ECHS head football coach Norman Dean said after the game. “A tough week. Any time you take -- we had Fall Break, so you take a teenager out of his routine, it gets crazy. “We did have the mistakes, but I

guess we overcame the mistakes.” For the first time all season, the Bulldogs (0-8, 0-6) won the turnover battle, and in the first half, gave their offense starting field possession on ECHS’s side of the 50 three times, including their first two drives. But the Dawgs sputtered, going threeand-out and having two turnovers of their own, while not picking up a first down until the 5:15 second quarter mark on a run by sophomore quarterback Drew Nobles. “We’ve got to find something that we can do with our offensive personnel when we’re on the plus side of the field to generate points,” Holtville head football coach Hunter Adams said. “I wish I had an answer for that right now, we’ve tried everything logistically that makes sense to

us, but we’re going to keep trying. Find something that’s going to get these guys in the end zone more.” After trading fumbles, Elmore County got on the board first on a 65-yard touchdown strike from senior quarterback Will Venable to senior wide receiver Tyric Belyeu with 3:53 left in the first. The Panthers had back-to-back touchdowns called back to open its next drive and ended up having to punt, but the attempt was blocked by senior Hunter Bowdoin. Holtville took over at the ECHS 28, but three plays later, senior quarterback Zach Weldon threw an interception to Belyeu in the end zone. “We played really hard for three quarters. They fought, forced a lot of turnovers, flipped the field a lot,”

Adams said. “Hunter Bowdoin had two big transitional plays for us, he’s a great hustle player. Right or wrong, he’s always going wide open, and he made two big play for us. “Our big guys up front, Jacob Nowak had a big game, Cody Clements, Tyler Anderson and Nathan Smith, up front those guys had a really good game. We wore out and got thin on bodies.” Venable scored on a keeper from 2 yards to cap his team’s next drive, giving Elmore County a 14-0 halftime lead that Holtville’s Cody Gibson sealed with a :01 pick. Belyeu scored his second touchdown on a 31-yard pitch-and-catch from Venable with 2:40 remaining in the third period. See SPOIL, Page 9

OCTOBER 15-16, 2016

2016 SPORTS EXTRA

Cory Diaz/ The Wetumpka Herald

Above: Elmore County sophomore D.J. Patrick (4) stiff arms Holtville sophomore safety Tristan Watson. Top right: Bulldogs senior quarterback Zach Weldon (3) looks for running room around the edge. Right: Sophomore quarterback Drew Nobles (2) tries to break the tackle of a Panther. Below: ECHS senior quarterback Will Venable loads up to throw the ball downfield against the Dawgs Thursday night.

Spoil Nobles broke through for Holtville, scooting in from 6 yards out with one tick left in the third quarter. Bowdoin added a two-point conversion on a mishandled PAT snap, pulling with 21-8. Nobles added another touchdown in the fourth. Sophomore Donovan Jones scored on a 60-yard touchdown run and nearly notched the Panthers’ next one, but fumbled at the 2-yard line going in as offensive lineman Parker Watts in end zone.

continued from page 8

“Big plays. We got that many stacked in the box, you got to throw the ball. I thought Holtville did a good job of stopping our inside run, so we had to throw and get outside runs in,” Dean said. “It’s like anything, you stop one thing, you’re kind of vulnerable somewhere else.””” Bowdoin returned a fumble 20 yards for a touchdown and ECHS sophomore D.J. Patrick returned a pick 70 yards for a score in the fourth.

2016 SPORTS EXTRA

OCTOBER 15-16, 2016

Montgomery Academy 39, Coosa 22

Cougars fall to Montgomery Academy on the road By CATHY HIGGINS Sports Editor

Central Coosa fell to Montgomery Academy 39-22 in Friday’s region game on the road. It was a hard-fought contest with the Cougars leading the Eagles 22-17 at the half. But that was after Montgomery gave a sign of what was to come in the first play of the game. “They scored on the first play of the game,” Central Coosa head coach Barry Simmons said, adding that Montgomery Academy topped that off with the extra point. The Eagles followed it up with a field goal to take a 10-0 lead. But Cougars quarterback Raymond Graham answered

with his own touchdown in the first, narrowing the Eagles’ lead to 10-6 in the quarter. This would be the first of his three TD’s of the night to lead the Cougars in the game. In the second quarter the Eagles scored once more. But Central Coosa gathered steam with Graham scoring two more touchdowns. The first came in the middle of the quarter. The last was made with a 36-yard rushing score, followed by a 2-point conversion, shifting the lead to the Cougars at the half, 22-17. In the second half the Eagles went on the attack. The third quarter saw Montgomery Academy running back Keefe White score a 26-yard touchdown run and then another score to increase their lead to 32-22 by the end of the quarter. The final blow came in the last two minutes of the game

Rebels

continued from page 6

week. A lot of that has to do with the scoreboard and that’s unfortunate. In order to buy in to the process, you can’t look at what’s going on up there. You’ve got to play every single play.” Vincent took the opening kickoff and looked as if they might keep the ball all night. The Yellow Jackets marched from their own 37 to the Rebels 6 in 18 plays before turning the ball over on downs when Vincent quarterback Zackery Fincher’s pass fell incomplete. It was all Rebels for the rest of the first half. Reeltown took over at its own 6 and marched the length of the field on 11 plays behind the running of Trakevon Hughley and Cole Flurry and a key 18-yard pass from quarterback Jamon Matthews to Eric Shaw. Matthews snuck over from the 1-yard line for the touchdown with 9:28 left in the half and Trenton Thrash’s extra point gave the Rebels the 7-0 advantage. After Vincent missed a 37-yard field goal and Reeltown went three-and-out, the Rebels again forced the Yellow Jackets to turn the ball over on downs at the Reeltown 47 when Nelson Whaley and Liotez Lewis stopped Vincent’s Deandre Davis for a loss of two on fourth-and-2. Four plays later, cat-quick Makevon

Hughley went in from 11 yards out and, with Thrash’s kick, the Rebels’ lead was 14-0 with 2:12 left in half. Finally, Vincent would get on the board. On secondand-8 from the Vincent 47, Fincher hit Daniel Green on a 37-yard strike to the Reeltown 16. After that, it was all the Yellow Jackets’ Robert Albright Jr., who got eight yards, then five, then two before bowling over from the 1 with just under nine seconds left in the half. But Reeltown wasn’t through. Shaw scooped up Vincent’s ensuing kickoff at his own 18 and rambled 82 yards down the right sideline for the score as the clock expired on the half. Again, Thrash added the PAT to give the Rebels a 21-7 halftime lead. Reeltown took the second-half kick and drove 62 yards in six plays for yet another score, the big play being Flurry’s 22-yard ramble to the Vincent 16. After Trakevon Hughley added 12 more, Matthews added his second score of the night running around right end untouched for the score. Thrash’s PAT attempt was blocked and Reeltown led 27-7. Vincent took the ensuing kickoff and again began a methodical drive, running 11 plays and covering 57

Generals the board when Payton McKee rushed 34 yards for the score with 6:04 left in the first quarter, only to have a holding penalty on the Wolves nullify the TD. They tried again with 5:15 left but the score was denied with another holding penalty for Fayetteville. The referees didn’t play favorites, though. With 3:09 left in the first quarter, Generals running back Drew Hill made an amazing 70-yard rush for the touchdown. But it, too, got erased with a Generals’ penalty for — you guessed it — holding. That seemed to be the theme of the night. Play, flag, play, flag. In fact, there were a total of 14 penalties issued Friday — nine for Fayetteville and eight for Horseshoe Bend. Most of them were for holding. Despite the spate of flag flinging and the sole score, there was no shortage of spectacular plays. Like in the first quar-

when the Eagles made one more score for a final score of 39-22. The loss drops the Cougers to 4-4 in the season and 2-3 in the region. Meanwhile Montgomery Academy jumps to 5-3 overall and 4-1 in the region, keeping their post-season playoffs alive. “We played with good effort,” Simmons said. “We wanted that win but we made some mistakes in the second half. “After a game is a 24-hour period,” the coach added. “If you win you celebrate for 24 hours and if you lose you mourn the loss for 24 hours. Then you move on to next week. And we’ve got a big one next week with (Southside) Selma.” Next week should be a little more festive as Central Coosa holds its homecoming game against Southside in Selma.

yards to the Reeltown 3 before Davis got caught in the backfield, lost the ball, and the Rebels’ Matthews scooped it up and added his third touchdown with a 92-yard return. A try for two failed and the Rebels led 33-7 at the end of three quarters. Each team would add a touchdown in the final period. Two plays after Reeltown’s Randy Woodyard recovered the Yellow Jackets’ Tae McGregor’s fumble at the Vincent 37, Rebel freshman Cameron Faison ran 42 yards around right end for the touchdown and, with Thrash’s kick, Reeltown’s lead reached 40-7. But two plays after the ensuing kick, McGregor, whose name wasn’t even on the Vincent roster, made up for the miscue, scoring on a second-down 75-yard scamper down the right sideline. Kaleb Wilson’s run for two closed out the night’s scoring. Reeltown improves to 4-4 on the season and 4-2 in region play. The Rebels travel to Fayetteville (3-5, 3-3 in the region and a 7-0 loser to Horseshoe Bend Friday night) for a key region contest next Friday. Vincent falls to 1-7 and 1-5 in the region and travels to Ranburne (1-7, 1-5 and a 68-7 loser to LaFayette Friday night) next week.

continued from page 11

ter when Fayetteville’s Bailey DeLoach evaded tackles in a 17-yard rush that came just short of a first down with 4:29 left in the quarter. He did so with dances and turns that made one wonder whether he was getting ready to audition for “So You Think You Can Dance?” In the third quarter, Meadows intercepted a 33-yard pass in the endzone that denied the Wolves the opportunity to tie the score. The most heart-pounding play came within the final minute of the game after the Wolves’ series of five plays had moved the ball to a mere yard from the endzone while going for a fourth down. With 1:01 left on the clock it was almost a sure thing that Fayetteville would score and possibly set the stage for overtime or even pull out a win.

But it didn’t happened. Both teams were focused on that ball and each other and the play stalled right there as a mass of bodies piled up just shy of the endzone. In true running gag fashion, a flag was thrown and a penalty to the Wolves prevented them from attempting the play again. When the dust settled, Horseshoe Bend emerged the victor. With that, the Generals have secured a spot in the post-season playoffs. The Generals move to a season record of 5-3 overall, 3-3 in the region and continue pursuing their Class 2A Region 5 postseason dreams next week by heading to Woodland to take on a team that has been Kenneth Boone / The Outlook winless all season. Braxton Walls goes up to make a big Meanwhile, Fayetteville falls to 3-6, 3-3 catch for the Generals in Friday’s 7-0 in the region. win over Fayetteville.