Tallassee Tribune Oct. 25 2023

More SWAT officers in Tallassee thanks to grant

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

Almost every Tallassee Police Department officer one may encounter is now SWAT certified.

The department received a $150,000 grant in February for SWAT training and equipment from the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs. It provided for 16 of 22 certified officers’ SWAT training. This adds

to the three others already trained. Now, every officer patrolling the streets of Tallassee is certified after completing training earlier this month. Also, two of the department’s three school resource officers are SWAT certified.

“I wanted to do that on the off chance of an active shooter situation,” Tallassee police chief Todd Buce said. “We are not hung up with a response. These people have the training. They ride around with

equipment they need.”

The vests the officers now wear are equipped with rifle-rated plates and appropriate covers.

“We don’t have to get undressed from our normal duty uniform to respond to something that is much bigger,” Buce said.

Just last month, patrol officers responded to a murder in east Tallassee. Allegedly, an AR-15 was used. Buce said the officers who responded initially were all SWAT

certified.

“If the shooter had stayed, (and) the officers had to engage an armed suspect, they are trained to do so at a higher level,” Buce said. “They have their gear with them ready.”

Buce said five of his officers have now also received entry training.

“We did that the week before,” Buce said. “All five of them are now explosive breachers. They can get through commercial doors,

barricaded doors and more using explosives.”

Buce said the training and equipment means if something were to happen within the Tallassee jurisdiction, the department won’t have to wait on other departments to help them. It also means the department can respond on the spot before things have a chance to escalate.

Man remains jailed on forged instrument charges, illegal urine

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

An August traffic stop on Rifle Range Road has opened up several issues for Tyler Jackson, 39, of Prattville.

a stop sign in August.

The law enforcement officer said he smelled marijuana as he approached the vehicle.

LIVING FOR THE DAY

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

Melody Jackson is living in the moment.

In August, Jackson, who is just 16 and a sophomore at Reeltown High School, was dealt a blow with a terminal cancer diagnosis. She was told she had only a few months to live. If she is lucky, she will complete a dream of continuing school.

But Reeltown’s homecoming game Friday night was a bit of relief from the reality of adrenocortical carcinoma. Jackson and her

mother Voni were on the sidelines of the pre-game homecoming ceremonies

— they thought to have a better view. Melody took a seat and soon every Reeltown High School Rebel Pride band member, every Reeltown football player and even Luverne volunteer coach and pastor Chris Hale presented her with a pink rose — Melody’s favorite.

“You got this,” Hale told Melody from his knee. “I’m a cancer survivor myself.” Moments later Melody was named honorary homecoming queen. But 2022 Reeltown Homecoming

queen Layton Lynn honored her by giving Melody her crown from last year.

“I don’t know what inspired me,” Lynn said after crowning Melody and senior Grayci Hadden. “She is a queen in my eyes. I just thought she deserved it more than me.”

Melody’s mother Voni said the Reeltown community has supported the family in the months since the cancer was found.

“It is overwhelming,” Voni said. “The Reeltown community is just so

See QUEEN, Page A2

An Elmore County deputy sheriff testified in a preliminary hearing before Elmore County District Court Judge Glen Googans Tuesday and said he saw Jackson take an unusual amount of time at

“He was pouring sweat,” investigator J.T. Evans said. “His jugular

See JAILED, Page A6

By MELODY RATHEL Staff Writer

Tallapoosa Publishers was recognized on a national scale this week as managing editor Lizi Arbogast Gwin

accepted second place in the Carmage Walls Commentary Prize, which is open to editorial writers all over the country. Gwin’s second-place Gwin places second in national writing contest

CLIFF WILLIAMS | THE TRIBUNE

Reeltown High School sophomore Melody Jackson, second from left, accepts roses from the football team before the homecoming game as her mother Voni looks on. Melody has terminal cancer and was named honorary homecoming queen.

AUDRA SPEARS | THE TRIBUNE

Tallapoosa Publishers managing editor Lizi Arbogast Gwin, right, placed second in the under 35,000 circulation bracket for column writing in the Carmage Walls Commentary Prize. She is presented the award by TPI general manager Tippy Hunter.

JACKSON

BILLY J. LINDSEY

MSG (RET) JOHN L. WILSON

Mr. Billy J. Lindsey, a resident of Tallassee, Alabama, passed away Tuesday, October 17, 2023, at the age of 89. He was born in Tallassee, Alabama, January 5, 1934 to William Jack and Mamie Lindsey.

Mr. Lindsey is survived by sons, Wade Lindsey (Janice) and Steve Lindsey (Donna); sister, Barbara Bryant; grandchildren, Paul M. Lindsey and Shana McGee (Brent); great grandchildren, Holton M. Lindsey, Haidyn T. Lindsey, Patrick W. McGee, Maddox A. McGee; several nieces and nephews and his beloved pets, Ivy and Saban.

He is preceded in death by his wife of 54 years, Elizabeth Ann Lindsey; parents, Jack and Mamie Lindsey; sisters, Peggy Mann, Betty Whitman and Carolyn Goodson.

Mr. Billy was a Deacon at Riverside Heights Baptist Church for many years and he retired from Mt. Vernon Mills, Tallassee, Alabama. He was an avid amateur radio enthusiast and a master wood worker. He loved his family and his church family.

MSG (Ret) John L. Wilson, a resident of East Tallassee, Alabama, passed away Tuesday, October 17, 2023, at the age of 87. He was born February 28, 1936, at Walnut Hill, Alabama.

tist Church for many years and loved God, Family and Country.

MSG (Ret) Wilson served his country honorably for more than 40 years in the AL Army National Guard. He served for many years in the famed 31st Infantry (Dixie) Division, 200th Inf. Regiment, Co K, the 31st Admin Company, and 158th Maintenance Company, retiring in grade Master Sergeant E-8.

Mr. Wilson was a graduate of Dadeville High School ’53 and Auburn University’58. He began his career with Tallassee City Schools as an Industrial Arts Shop teacher, worked at Neptune Meter Co. as a Mfg. Engineer, and at Elmore County Technical Center as a Machine Tool Technology instructor. After his retirement, he enjoyed remodeling old Ford cars and engines.

The family will receive friends Friday, October 20, 2023 from 1:30PM until service time at 2:30PM at Jeffcoat Funeral Home. Mr. Randy Knowles will be officiating and burial will follow at Elam Baptist Cemetery, Tallassee, Alabama, with Military Honors and Jeffcoat Funeral Home directing.

The family will receive friends Friday, October 20, 2023, from 10:00AM until service time at 11:00AM at Riverside Heights Baptist Church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Society of Elmore County, 255 Central Plank Road, Wetumpka, Alabama 36092 or Riverside Heights Baptist Church, 495 Little Road, Tallassee, Alabama 36078.

Police Reports

TALLASSEE POLICE DEPARTMENT

OCT. 22

• A domestic incident was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

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

• A juvenile complaint was reported on Godwin Road.

• A fight was reported on Poplar Street.

• A fight was reported on First Avenue.

• Assistance was given to a citizen on Rickey Lane.

• Debris was reported in the roadway on the Fitzpatrick Bridge.

• A noise complaint was reported on Third Street.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Lower Tuskegee Road.

• A domestic dispute was reported on Sims Avenue.

• A child custody dispute was reported on Riverside Avenue.

• Fraud was reported on Hillcrest Street.

• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• Animal control was requested on South Wesson Street.

• Theft was reported on Cotton Ridge Road.

• A domestic dispute was reported on Rickey Lane.

• A motor vehicle accident with injuries was reported on Wall Street.

• Assistance was given to a citizen on Courtland Drive.

• Assistance was given to a citizen on Hickory Street.

• Assistance was given to a citizen on Third Avenue.

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

• Criminal mischief was reported on Poplar Street.

OCT. 21

Mr. Wilson is survived by his 3 children, daughters, Lynne Wilson Rogers and Laura Wilson; son, Glen Wilson (Victoria); granddaughters, Kelly Rogers Giddens (Chris), Katelynne Rogers Dean (Blake) and Hannah Wilson; grandson, Davis Wilson and great granddaughter, Millie Dean.

Mr. Wilson is preceded in death by his beloved wife of 32 years, Marie Davis Wilson (1989); parents, Lewis Wilson and Kate Cosby Wilson and one sister, Betty Jean Jackson.

Mr. Wilson was an active member of East Tallassee Bap-

• Assistance was given to a citizen on Ashurst Avenue.

• Assistance was given to a citizen on Ashurst Avenue.

• Criminal mischief and theft was reported on Capstone Lane.

• Trespassing was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• A hit and run accident was reported on Central Boulevard.

• A motor vehicle accident was reported on Friendship Road.

• A motor vehicle accident was reported on Ralph Bunche Street.

• Assistance was given during a medical call on Freeman Avenue.

OCT. 20

• Assistance was given during a medical call on Ashurst Avenue.

• Theft was reported on Capstone Lane.

• A domestic dispute was reported on South Tallassee Drive.

• Theft was reported on Fourth Street.

• Assistance was given during a medical call on Ashurst Avenue.

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

• Assistance was given to a citizen on Notasulga Road.

• Animal control was requested on Paxton Drive.

OCT. 19

• Gunshots were reported on First Avenue.

• Harassment was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• A noise complaint was reported on Pinehurst Street.

• A fight in progress was reported on Softball Way.

• Animal control was requested on Whatley Drive.

• Animal control was requested on John Street.

• A fight in progress was reported on First Avenue.

• Animal control was requested on Redden Avenue.

• Forgery was reported on Twin Creeks Drive.

• Animal control was requested on Paxton Drive.

• Animal control was requested on Herd Street.

• A Black male was arrested on Barnett Boulevard.

Need morning OCT. 18

• Harassment was reported on Sims Avenue.

• Reckless driving was reported on South Tallassee Drive.

• A civil disturbance was reported on Hickory Street.

• A domestic dispute was reported on Highway 229.

Memorials may be made to East Tallassee Baptist Church, Debt Retirement Fund, 314 Central Blvd., Tallassee, Alabama, 36078 or your favorite charity.

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

• A white male was arrested on Highway 229.

• Suspicious activity was reported on Little John Drive.

• A civil disturbance was reported on Friendship road.

• Gunfire was reported on North Ashurst Boulevard.

• Assistance was given to a citizen on East Patton Street.

• Theft of services was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• A civil dispute was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• Animal control was requested on West Butler Street.

• Harassment was reported on Ralph Bunche Street.

• Loitering was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• A noise complaint was reported on Recreation Center Road.

• Animal control was requested on North McKenzie Street.

• A motor vehicle accident was reported on Gilmer Avenue. OCT. 17

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Highway 229.

• Trespassing was reported on Second Avenue.

• Provided assistance to the Tallassee Fire Department on Gilmer Avenue.

• Theft was reported on Little Road.

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

• A child custody dispute was reported on South Tallassee Drive.

• A welfare check was conducted on Kent Road.

• A juvenile complaint was reported on North Johnson Street.

• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Hickory Street.

• Debris was reported in the roadway on Weldon Drive.

• Animal control was requested on Ashurst Avenue.

• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Taylor Road.

• Animal control was requested on Central Boulevard.

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

• Suspicious activity was reported on Hickory Street.

WETUMPKA POLICE DEPARTMENT

OCT. 17

• Theft was reported on Ft. Toulouse Road.

OCT. 13

• Identity theft was reported on Margate Loop.

• Identity theft was reported on St. Thomas Avenue.

• Burglary and assault was reported on South Pine Street.

OCT. 12

• Theft was reported on Ft. Toulouse Road.

• Unauthorized use of a vehicle was reported on Elmwood Court.

• A noise complaint was reported on James Street.

• Disorderly conduct was reported on Indian Trail.

Continued from A1

• Animal control was requested on Freeman Avenue.

• Theft was reported on North Johnson Street.

wonderful. I knew about the flowers tonight. We thought we were just going to watch from the sideline. I didn’t know about the honorary queen thing. It means a lot to her. It was a big surprise.”

Melody’s journey started in July where she was being treated for a couple minor issues. She was in band camp later in the month with the rest of the Marching Rebel Pride.

“I took her to the urgent care,” Voni said. “She was given some antibiotics. She wasn’t getting any better on antibiotics. On a Sunday

• A domestic dispute was reported on Second Avenue.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Macedonia Road.

[July 30] I took her to urgent care in Wetumpka.” Melody’s oxygen levels were low and a chest X-ray was done.

“They found spots that we later found out to be tumors,” Voni said. Imaging later showed a large tumor on Melody’s adrenal gland. Mother and daughter were then loaded in an ambulance and taken to Children’s Hospital for more imaging and tests.

“They found a large tumor on her adrenal gland about the size of a basketball,” Voni said. “It has gone to her lungs. They also found a handful of tumors on her brain and vaginal wall. It had metastasized.” The adrenocortical carcinoma

OCT. 11

• Theft was reported on Ft. Toulouse Road.

diagnosis came a few days later. Doctors said Melody only had a few months left. But Melody decided not to go down without a fight. She made the decision to start chemotherapy to try and slow cancer down — possibly giving her more than the few months doctors said initially.

“She’s a fighter,” her mother said. Now she’s pray for a miracle to accomplish another milestone.

“I want to be a veterinarian,” Melody said. A gofundme has been set up to help the family with expenses while taking care of Melody; those interested can donate at www.gofundme.com/f/cancer-fund-for-melody-jackson.

QUEEN

Humane Society of Elmore County News

Some tips for safe pet trick-or-treating

By REA CORD HSEC Executive Director

Today is the last day to purchase your tickets at the shelter office for Food for Funds

Shrimp Boil by the Wharf

Casual Seafood Wetumpka.

For $30, your ticket will get you a Red Bag Shrimp Boil (shrimp, corn, potatoes & sausage - will feed 1-2 people), you can pick up from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday at the Wharf Wetumpka location.

Our shelter will receive a portion of the ticket sales and we think this is just a scrumptious idea all the way around.

Because Halloween parties may fire up this coming weekend, we want to remind folks of some dangers where our

pets are concerned. Chocolate and the artificial sweetener

Xylitol, found in many candies, can be toxic to pets – not to mention the danger from swallowed candy wrappers and lollipop sticks.

Please keep all candies safely out of reach of your pets and don’t leave pets unattended with a big bowl of candy at the front door. Make sure your children are aware their Halloween candy should not be shared with pets. Perhaps make a special pet candy bowl with small doggy or kitty treats your children can safely share with them so they have their own treats.

Glow sticks and rings help our children be more visible but best kept out of reach of

pets as the contents are very bitter and could cause distress to your pet if chewed.

Wild and fun costumes are part of the holiday, but our pets may not feel the same way and could become scared of, or even protective, so best to keep your pets safely apart from humans in odd and scary costumes.

Keeping them separate from party antics will also help protect them from being fed inappropriate food, treats and candy by kind, but uninformed party guests.

Some pets are fine wearing a costume while others find it quite stressful. If you do dress up your pet, make sure the costume doesn’t constrict its movement, hearing or

Waylon is a 5-year old Husky/ Corgi mix who weighs about 45 pounds. He is too cute with his husky head and short stubby legs. Waylon is good with other dogs but brought to us for having a high prey drive where other types of animals are concerned – cats and livestock, for instance. For another dog let’s stick with dogs his size and larger to be safe. He is a happy fella, very strong and fast. He loves people! 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

breathing. Never leave a pet wearing a costume unattended and also check to make sure there are no dangling pieces your pet could get caught in or chew on.

And if your pet seems distressed then please don’t force your pet to stay in a costume. Please also keep your pets in another room or part of the house if you are opening your door for trick-or-treaters. It would be easy for a pet to escape and we certainly don’t want a pet to be freaked out by scores of children in all manner of costumes resulting in either a lost pet or, worse, a bite. And make sure pets and candlelit Halloween decorations are not left alone to help prevent them being knocked

choosing. This adoption fee covers the mandatory spay or neuter, basic immunizations, deworming, microchip, heartworm check for dogs, rabies vaccination if old enough and a free health exam with your participating veterinarian. If you are interested in meeting Cola or any of the pets at HSEC, the first step is to fill out an adoption application online. Once approved, you will be contacted by someone from the humane society. HSEC is located at 255 Central Plank Road in Wetumpka. The phone number is 334-567-3377 and the website is www.elmorehumane.org.

Trade Day returns to Tallassee

over and an accidental fire.

And just to be safe, make sure your pet is properly identified (microchip, collar and ID tag) in case it does escape through an open door while

you’re distracted with trick-ortreaters.

Happy Halloween fun!

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

CLIFF WILLIAMS | THE TRIBUNE

The Tallassee Chamber of Commerce has held Trade Day in the past and with work downtown, the fall festival moved to city hall without the name. But the name Trade Day returned Saturday, and hopes are the event returns next year to its home in downtown Tallassee after streetscape work is complete. This year, dozens of vendors with food, crafts and fun for children of all ages gathered once again for the crowds. There was even a Moon Pie eating contest and a pumpkin decorating contest.

Commission passes Operation Green Light honoring veterans

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

The historic Elmore County Courthouse doesn’t have any green landscape lighting, but that doesn’t stop the Elmore County Commission from recognizing veterans in the area.

The Elmore County Commission has traditionally adopted a resolution recognizing Operation Green Light and veterans in Elmore County. It did so at Monday’s meeting.

“We still have yet to get a green light around the building but we are working on it,” Elmore County chief operations officer Richie Beyer said.”Individuals in the community are also encouraged to have a green light outside their home to recognize the service and sacrifice of our veterans.” Operation Greenlight is the resulting project between the National Association of Counties (NACo) and the National Association of County Veterans Service Officers (NACVSO) to invite the nation’s 3,069 counties and parishes to show support for veterans by

lighting public buildings green from Nov. 6-12.

Commission chairman Bart Mercer said the project aims to show the value veterans can add to all communities but also the struggles of veterans as they return home.

“It tries to highlight the transition period that veterans have from military service back to civilian life and the great things they bring to the workplace,” Mercer said.

The commission authorized land swap deeds for 17 Springs between the City of Millbrook, the Elmore County Commission and the Greater Montgomery YMCA. It is part of a memorandum of understanding between the entities. Beyer said the fields were essentially built on YMCA property and the commercial district is on city and county property. This action cleans up the documents and makes platting of the commercial district possible.

The commission approved the financing of five dump trucks through CB&S Bank. It was one of two banks to submit proposals to the commission.

Beyer made the recom-

mendation so the trucks’ cost would not affect the county’s cash flow as much.

In other action the Elmore County Commission:

• Approved minutes of the Oct. 10 meeting.

• Approved a memorandum of warrants totaling $3,037,138.68 for the time period of Sept. 29 to Oct. 13.

• Approved a 011 Lounge Retail Liquor Class II Package alcohol license for Lions Pride Wine and Spirit on Weoka Road after no public comment.

• Approved the vacation of a portion of Maverick Circle to adjoining landowners after no public comment.

• Approved the renewal of a governmental affairs consulting service contract for 2024 with Crosby Drinkard Group LLC.

• Authorized the commission chairman to execute a lease agreement for a public safety communications tower.

• Awarded the Region 4 Debris Monitoring Services contract to Tetra Tech Inc. through the Alabama County Commission Association’s bid program.

• Updated the Elmore County Flood Damage Prevention ordinance to comply with the National Insurance Plan.

• Authorized a three-year agreement with CIMS for GPS units for the county’s equipment.

• Approved the fiscal year 2024 ARP road projects.

The next meeting of the Elmore County Commission is scheduled for 5 p.m. Monday, Nov. 13.

Pet of the Week - Waylon

Tallassee Talks

Trick or Treat

Halloween is known as an evil day of ghosts, goblins, and serial killers. But, from this pagan festival came a holy day – and its story is among one of the most interesting developments in history.

The term Halloween is a contraction of the words that spelled out “All Hallows Eve,” the night before All Hallows Day (or All Saints Day in modern vernacular).

In the year 835, Pope Gregory III moved the Catholic Church’s holy days of All Saints Day to Nov. 1 and All Souls Day to Nov. 2, respectively.

“Hallow” is not a word to fear, incidentally: as defined by Merriam-Webster, it means “to make holy or set apart for holy use”. This explains its use in the Lord’s Prayer: “hallowed be Thy name”.

Europeans have traditionally believed that

Weddings,

Announcements:

family events or milestones are 35 cents per word and $25 for a photo and must be emailed to us at announcements@thewetumpkaherald.com. Include name and telephone number. The text for the announcement must be in the body of the email (not as an attachment) and photographs must be sent as a .jpeg attached to the email. Announcements will appear within 10 days in The Herald or The Tribune.

this is a special time of the year when spirits can make contact with the physical world, and when magic is at its most powerful. The darkness that seems to envelop the universe on this scary evening, especially in horror movies, certainly has a legend unlike any other holy day on the calendar.

The Celtic people of England, Ireland and Scotland celebrated Samhain at this time of year. Samhain was a harvest festival in which the ancient pagans set bonfires to burn the bones of their slaughtered livestock and any damaged crops. As immigrants moved to the United States in the 1800s, they

brought these traditions with them.

During Samhain, the pagans ritually wore costumes and masks to keep evil spirits away. When the Romans took over Celtic territory, they incorporated the festival Feralia, symbolized by Pomona, the goddess of fruit. The bobbing-for-apples tradition began here, and to these people the word Halloween literally meant “to eat kids”.

Dennison Manufacturing Company (now Avery Dennison) was a major manufacturer of Halloween cards and supplies in the early decades of the twentieth century. They even distributed a Halloween merchandise catalog! (Interestingly, Dennison was located in Framingham, Massachusetts from 1897 until recently, when Avery Dennison closed operations there.)

The post-World War

II era saw the rise in popularity of Halloween trick-or-treating as the quintessential autumn event. Particularly during the 1950s, Halloween costumes and the sale of Halloween candy became profitable enterprises for American companies.

Jack-o’-lanterns, scarecrows, pumpkins, witches, spiders, mummies, vampires, tombstones,and other characters of fall have been a part of the All Hallows tradition through the centuries.

Dressing up in costume isn’t only for children, however. Among adults, the most popular costumes continue to be witch, pirate, vampire, cat and clown, along with pop culture icons of the day.

The jack-o’-lantern is traced back to Stingy Jack, a greedy, gambling, hard drinking old Irish farmer who tricked the devil into climbing a tree, and trapped Ol’ Scratch by carving a Cross into the tree trunk. In revenge,

Clean Up Alabama is not protecting children, it’s hurting them

We fear things we don’t understand. We shackle the things that are uncontrollable.

Maybe this is why human sexuality is feared and monitored — and continues to be. I can’t speak to the history of sexuality since its conception, but I can speak to the history of sexuality in America.

The one thing that I am sick and tired of seeing is the demonization and continued oppression of LGBTQ+ identities, which is exactly what will continue if Clean Up Alabama gets its way.

Alabama public libraries are being met with increasing pressure to take away certain books from the children and youth sections and Clean Up Alabama is one of the main organizations driving that pressure.

The main pieces of literature Clean Up Alabama would like to see out of the children’s section are books related to sexuality and gender ideologies because advocates believe they are inappropriate (and sometimes referred to as pornographic.)

An official list for the Alabama Public Library Service to follow regarding inappropriate books has not been decided on as of yet since this controversy first arose. How-

ever, Clean Up Alabama does have a sample of books they believe should be banned. More than half of the books listed have queer identities from gay romance novels to a trans memoir. To say there’s not an agenda to target the LGBTQ+ community would be naive at best. While there is straight sexual content cited on the list, it’s a stark contrast from how queer literature is treated. For instance, “I Am A Rainbow” is a picture book with no nudity and no sexual activity. It is solely on the list because it has a LGBTQ+ character. Denying kids free access to books won’t stop kids from having LGBTQ+ identities, but they will have the privilege of bearing the weight of daily discrimination and systemic oppression even more.

The ongoing stigma around LGBTQ+ identities isn’t about protecting children, but about

power and for heterosexual norms to remain within that place of power.

And if children are the future, they better know their place, right? They better know to marry someone of the opposite sex and not change their assigned gender — stay in line.

LGBTQ+ identities are not new. We have court records from the 1620s in Virginia of an individual named T. Hall who was gender nonconforming and intersex. So, this current crusade against LGBTQ+ identities isn’t going to make the queer community go away. It will just cause more unnecessary harm to queer children, especially trans youth who are already facing many battles to receive gender affirming care. From this year’s reports alone, the The Trevor Project found 41% of LGBTQ+ youth have considered attempting suicide. And this isn’t because being gay is wrong. It’s because our society continues to stigmatize and demonize LGBTQ+ identities and as such roughly 1 in 3 LGBTQ+ individuals attribute their poor mental health to the prevalence of antiLGBTQ+ policies and legislation.

ABIGAIL MURPHY Multimedia Reporter

MICHAEL BIRD Columnist

REBELS RALLY

ABIGAIL MURPHY THE TRIBUNE

The Reeltown Rebels had a lot to celebrate for this year’s homecoming. The school started with a bonfire Thursday night and then kicked off Friday with a pep rally. At 1 p.m. it was time for the homecoming parade. The parade had the RHS marching band, the homecoming court, the new Rebel Walls built by the ninth through 12th graders, the football team, cheerleaders and alumni classes. This year’s homecoming honored the classes of 1984, 1994, 2004 and 2014. After the parade, there was an alumni band practice, alumni tea and kickoff for the game was 7 p.m. The Rebels won against Luverne 4013. During the pregame festivities, Grayci Hadden was announced as the 2023 Homecoming Queen for Reeltown High School. RHS homecoming was on Oct. 20.

RHS celebrates homecoming week

TREAT

Continued from A4

the devil placed a curse on Jack which dooms him to forever wander the earth at night. (More realistically, a jack-ofthe-lantern was an Irish name for a carved turnip or pumpkin with a candle inside, placed on doorsteps and in window sills to light the night.)

Today, Halloween ranks only behind Christmas as the second most popular holiday for decorating in the United States. It also ranks high for profitability along with Valentine’s Day, Easter and Christmas.

The next time you’re watching Michael Myers from Halloween, Leatherface from Texas Chainsaw Massacre or Jason from Friday the 13th, consider that once upon a time, Halloween was a day to remember the faithful departed while celebrating hunters and gatherers. We will probably never view Halloween in such a way again; but as we do, let us recall how it all began. Trick or treat!

Michael Bird is a music teacher for Tallassee City Schools.

HURTING

Continued from A4

LGBTQ+ youth are already at high risk of homelessness, assault and other hate crimes. So why not add denying access to free books that create a sense of community and belonging?

Protect the children, they say. But it seems LGBTQ+ children aren’t considered children at all.

Abigail Murphy is the Dadeville beat writer for Tallapoosa Publishers Inc.

Armory rededicated in Tallassee

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

The Alabama National Guard Armory in Tallassee was mostly closed for renovations. But now soldiers are roaming the facility after major upgrades and renovations.

Brig. Gen. Michael Evans spent seven of his 37 years assigned to the armory in Tallassee and sees the improvements to the building originally constructed in 1979.

“The aesthetic improvements are great,” Evans said. “I see some technology capabilities now that we didn’t have before. Technology is a big piece of what we do today.”

Evans said the improvements in the armory are needed to help soldiers in the Alabama National Guard combat enemies at home and abroad.

“The threat and challenge from the enemy doesn’t stop,” Evans said.

The Alabama National Guard Armory was once located next to J. E. “Hot” O’Brien Stadium. Evans joked about the need for a football stadium expansion as the reason for the move. But instead the move

showed the guard’s commitment to Tallassee.

“We kind of got landlocked and needed more space for our mission, for training — that is what helped us move out here,” Evans said. “In 1979 this area was probably considered the boondocks. There was no Walmart next door and we didn’t really need technology.”

Evans said the renovations, including a sloped roof and changes inside, reflect the mission of the guard still being relevant. He

Wetumpka’s

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

said the soldiers in the Alabama National Guard and the armory in Tallassee can be called up to serve abroad, which they have done. They can also be called into domestic service, which Gov. Kay Ivey did recently by deploying guardsmen to support border operations in Texas.

Evans said Tallasse has been committed to the guard.

“Everybody knows resources are scarce,” Evans said. “Over the years, Tallassee and the surrounding communities have been very supportive.”

Tallassee has supplied soldiers. Even at Saturday’s rededication, Evans swore in the newest recruits from Elmore County. Evans said all of it wouldn’t be possible with funding.

“We spent a lot of money here,” Evans said. “The intent is to have units here, guardsmen here. It is good for the community and for the Guard.”

Despite several reassignments, Alabama National Guard LTC Edwardo Christ said Tallassee has remained a constant in his career. He and his family moved to Tallassee in 2008. He has since been assigned to units in Ft. Deposit, Montgomery, Eufaula, Auburn University ROTC and most recently Fort McClellan.

“I stayed in Tallassee,” Christ said. “There are no plans to move anytime soon.”

Christ’s daughter graduated from Tallassee High School. His home is just blocks away.

Tallassee Mayor Sarah Hill said the Alabama National Guard will always have a home in Tallassee.

“They are protectors of our homes,” she said. “The National Guard continues to be our heroes.”

Grumpy Dog expands to Tallassee

Let’s get Grumpy. Wil Lanum has made that phrase almost famous in Wetumpka. Now, Tallassee will have its chance to see how much it likes Grumpy Dog. Lanum did his research before landing in Tallassee for his second location. “I put out on Facebook asking where people would like to see us — Prattville, Tallassee, Montgomery,” Lanum said. “Everybody had an opinion.”

The Grumpy Dog himself decided to settle the argument over the second location.

“I started driving around at places to rent or buy to establish another location,” Lanum said. “Tallassee had a great location and the people are awesome.”

Lanum picked the property behind the old Alabama Power building across Gilmer Avenue from J.E. “Hot” O’Brien Stadium. He said it is a little bit different from the location in downtown Wetumpka. There is no dine in option but the new location has 24 parking spots. But it is not

stopping Lanum.

“It will be great for us because the majority of people get us to go,” Lanum said. “More than 60% get theirs to go [in Wetumpka].” Lanum said he hopes customers use the parking spots like a drive-in after getting their food.

Everything else about the Tallassee location will be similar to Wetumpka, with some additions.

“We are going to have the same menu, but we will have salads and wraps on the menu every day instead of running them as a special,” Lanum said. “We will have a drink menu. We have a slushy machine so we will have a specialty drink menu.”

A grand opening is planned for Nov. 11 but Lanum hopes to have a soft opening prior to get new employees used to Grumpy Dog and its menu.

“We are interviewing for positions currently,” Lanum said.

Lanum said he believes the location will be successful based on his interactions with Tallassee residents while prepping the new location.

“Everyone has been super nice and super supportive,” he said. “They see my Grumpy Dog t-shirt and ask when we are going to open. Lots of people have come in [the Wetumpka] asking when we are going to open over there. Everyone is excited about it. People are the biggest reason I picked Tallassee.”

CLIFF WILLIAMS THE TRIBUNE

The second location of Grumpy Dog in Elmore County is on Gilmer Avenue near J.E.‘Hot’ O’Brien Stadium. The grand opening is scheduled for Nov. 11.

CLIFF WILLIAMS | THE TRIBUNE

New recruits assigned to the Alabama National Guard Armory in Tallassee prepare to be sworn in as part of rededication ceremonies of the facility on Saturday.

award was in the column writing for a circulation of under 35,000, despite TPI’s subscription base across all four papers being right around 2,000. Gwin would not have received the recognition if it weren’t for the consistent encouragement from Tallapoosa Publishers general manager Tippy Hunter.

“I entered this contest at the urging of Tippy,” Gwin said. “At first, I didn’t think much of it because the circulation bracket we would fall into was under 35,000. Even though I was hesitant, Tippy encouraged me to do it just to see what might come of it.”

Each year, America’s Newspapers presents the Carmage Walls Commentary Prize in honor of the founder of Southern Newspapers. Categories include editorial and column writing.

Hunter learned about this contest through an email from America’s Newspapers. She had been

receiving the emails for several years but after the events of this year, it really stood out to her. “As soon as I started seeing them, I began sending them to her,” Hunter said. “I figured the least she could do was at least enter the contest.”

When Gwin made the decision to enter this contest, she gathered three of her most thought-provoking and powerful pieces and submitted them to be reviewed. Her column “Suicide can’t be taboo; we have to talk through this together” exhibits Gwin’s vulnerability with readers as she shares her experience with suicidal ideation to highlight the importance of talking about suicide.

Another one of her submissions titled “The shoes and the night I will never forget” provides a detailed account of the Dadeville mass shooting through the eyes of a local journalist and community member. In her third column, “Sometimes losses rearrange the world,” Gwin lovingly honors her late brother-in-law Dylan Gentry while

reflecting on grief and its ability to change one’s perception of their reality.

“I chose to enter these specific stories because I felt like they were well-written, and they were the most important to me,” Gwin said. “I’ve worked really hard at my column writing over the past few years, so it really means a lot to be recognized for something I’ve taken so seriously.”

Gwin believes these stories were important to share because of their pertinence to recent events in her personal life as well as their importance to the community.

“These stories were very relevant to events that were happening within the community; in a matter of weeks, we had about five suicides in our tri-county area,” Gwin said. “The Dadeville shooting was such an important part of my life and my career, and raising awareness about suicide is something that has always been important to me.”

In a time where this community was facing a large amount

of loss, Gwin reflects on the consequences of loss in her column “Sometimes losses rearrange the world.” Throughout the grief she has experienced in her own life, she figured she knew exactly how to handle it. After witnessing the effects of the mass shooting in Dadeville and losing her little brother-in-law, she realized that grief is not something that can be “figured out.”

“My brother-in-law and Phil Dowdell, a victim of the Dadeville shooting, were very similar,” Gwin explained. “Both of them always had a smile on their face, were extremely skilled athletically and were just genuine, kind-hearted kids.”

Because these stories are so personal to Gwin, she felt honored to have received this award. She hopes that her vulnerability will make a difference in the lives of those who read her stories.

“This award means a lot because the columns I wrote were very personal. Sometimes when I write about topics like these, I feel like I overshare,” Gwin said.

“To learn that I’m not oversharing and that I could be making a difference for someone is very meaningful to me.”

The judges of the Carmage Walls Commentary Prize contest described Gwin’s work as having a “powerful punch” and “memorable.” The judges conveyed their appreciation for Gwin’s courage to share these deeply personal accounts with her local audience.

When Hunter learned Gwin placed second in the national contest, she was not surprised; Hunter was confident that Gwin’s talent would not go unnoticed.

“I was extremely thrilled that she won, but I was even more proud that she entered the contest,” Hunter said. “It can be very difficult to put yourself out there, but I’m proud that she entered some of her personal stories in hopes of helping others.”

According to Hunter, Tallapoosa Publishers Inc. is proud to have Gwin as its managing editor. Her purposeful writing does not go unnoticed throughout the community — and beyond.

veins were very distinct.

You could see his heartbeat through his clothing.”

During a search of Jackson’s vehicle, a bladder system for synthetic urine was found as well as checks from the same account but different names.

Jackson, who was representing himself, had previously filed motions to suppress much of the evidence as the charges before Goggans were 13 counts of possession of forged instruments found at Jackson’s residence.

Jackson also claimed the traffic stop wasn’t valid and evidence obtained couldn’t be used.

But in December 2022, Jackson pled guilty to pos-

GRANT

Continued from A1

session of a controlled substance and entered the community corrections program. Agreeing to the program is similar to probation allowing law enforcement to search a person, vehicle or resident as long as they are in the program. The synthetic urine could be used in an attempt to avert drug testing.

Goggans allowed the evidence and the hearing to continue. Images of 13 checks found at Jackson’s residence were produced to Goggans. The checks totaled $18,510. Five were made out to people. Five of the checks were made out to Jackson totaling $6,850.

Law enforcement said the checks had forged signatures and the account belonged to a family member’s business that closed four years earlier. The checks were also from different business names

Buce said he went through the SWAT training with four of his officers last week. It is something he has never done in his nearly three decades of law enforcement.

despite having the same account number.

The family member said the business had closed and there was no money in the account.

Goggans bound the case over to an Elmore County Grand Jury.

Jackson has a $5,000 bond available to him on the 13 counts of possession of forged instruments. But there his community corrections program is in the process of being revoked on the synthetic urine charge meaning he would be held until he completes his three year sentence.

Other cases in district court last week include:

• Tia Harris, 30, of Selma was stopped by a patrol officer with the Wetumpka Police Department on Sept. 6 after the driver of the car

Buce said the training was grueling — 66 hours over five days. “It kicked my tail,” Buce said. “It rained on us all of our range days. We stayed in the live fire house and static range doing drills, we are soaking wet out in the middle of the night, policing up brass we had fired in a class of 44.”

Harris was riding in failed to signal a turn. Officers noticed a cigarette pack with an obscured label that turned out to be marijuana. On the driver’s side of the car a bag containing methamphetamine was found. Harris was charged with possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute. She was in front of Googans last week for preliminary and bond hearings.

Goggans bound Harris’ case over to an Elmore County Grand Jury and left her bond at $46,000.

The driver of the car, Robert Ingram, 31, also of Selma posted a $46,000 bond two days after the pair’s arrest.

• William Boland, 37, of Elmore was arrested by the Millbrook Police Department on Sept. 7 and charged with sex abuse of a

Buce said the last day is the test running an actual mission. It’s pass or fail and no in between.

“If you fail as a team, then you get one shot to redo it. If any team member makes a safety violation, they get cut from the program,” Buce said. “We passed on the first try and were first up.”

child under 12. Bond was set at $100,000 at his arrest. He requested a preliminary hearing and a bond reduction hearing. Boland was in court with his attorney last week and withdrew both motions as his name was called.

As of Thursday afternoon Boland was still being held in the Elmore County Jail.

• A Georgia man was arrested Sept. 3 by the Wetumpka Police Department for using false identity to obstruct justice. Charles Hammond, 31, of Lithonia, Georgia waived his preliminary hearing to help get a bond reduction. He was stopped for improper lane usage on U.S. Highway 231. According to court documents, the officer smelled a strong odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle. The officer also

Buce said he doesn’t know of another department in the state with as high of a percentage of officers SWAT certified but believes it is a good idea. He also said the training will help with officer retention. But it’s not the only reason for the training. “It is good in many ways,”

noticed all eight occupants were acting nervous as if to hide something. It was determined Hammond was hiding from outstanding felony warrants in Georgia.

During the search of the vehicle, officers found 4.4 grams of marijuana, molly and a handgun. Hammond’s bond was originally set at $15,000 cash. Goggans reduced it to $7,500.

The molly was found on Vonn Russell, 32, of McDonough, Georgia and was charged with possession of a controlled substance. Russell has a $16,000 bond available to him. He has also filed a motion to plead guilty to information meaning he will soon be sentenced.

Charles Dozier claimed the marijuana and handgun.

Buce said. “It is better training for the officers here in Tallassee. It gives them a leg up. Secondly, they are better equipped to handle emergency situations because of the gear made available through the grant and extra training. Third thing is it is safer for everyone because the response is quicker.”

Adopt, don’t shop. Shelter Pets

RELIGION

We must keep walking with Jesus

e go through many phases in life from the helplessness of being a newborn babe, although love is abundant when a new life enters the world. We experience our school days of making new friends followed by the years of a happy-go-lucky teenager. Then it hits; “working nine to five and what a way to make a living.” Senior years creep upon us with many changes but our life does not end! We are in constant motion of transitions from the “cradle to the grave.”

JACKIE WILBOURN Columnist

Robert Lee Frost (1874 –1963) was an American poet. Mr. Frost was known for his frequent writings depicting rural life. He is the only poet to receive four Pulitzer Prizes for Poetry. One of his most famous poems, “Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening,” was read at President John Kennedy’s funeral. Many of Mr. Frost’s works employed the use of

symbolism and this particular writing contains special moments of remembrance.

Just as the poem reflects, “Stopping in the woods to enjoy the beauty of falling snow and as peaceful as he felt, he had to move along.” Life is much like that. We cannot stop and question, “What if?”

If a pool of water stands still for a lengthy period of time, it will become stagnant. Life moves along, no matter how nice it may seem at the moment. There are promises we must keep, obligations we must fulfill, people who need us and there are dreams that we have yet

Tallassee Churches

to dream. Scripture teaches that our walk with Jesus will present many hurdles that must be jumped, many potholes to go around, but we must continue to walk with Him by our side. Many people have lost their jobs, many have lost loved ones, many obstacles have jumped in front of our journey of life but we must accept that we must not “stop in the woods and enjoy peace” but continue to walk on down the road.

Like the man in the poem, “I have promises to keep which I cannot fulfill if I stare too long into the beautiful woods.” I want to be a

part of the future because I made promises I must keep.

Another famous writer, the Apostle Paul, wrote, “I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me Heavenward in Christ Jesus,” (Philippians 3:14).

Believe that your best miles are ahead of you, and I want to cover every one of them before I sit down. I don’t want to leave any mile un-run. “I have miles to go before I sleep.”

Jackie Wilbourn, member of Bethel Baptist Church, is a chaplain with Alabama Baptist Relief Team.

DALTON

MIDDLETON SPORTS EDITOR

dalton.middleton@thewetumpkaherald.com

Reeltown’s historic season comes to a close

By HENRY ZIMMER Sports Editor

The Reeltown Rebels have finished the first year under coach Tammy Merrett. Finishing the season 7-6, the team secured a winning record for the first time in ages, but bowed out to Lanett to finish third in the region, just barely missing qualification for regionals.

“We had our first winning season, that is so big to me,” coach Tammy Merrett said.

“I wanted to give them that positive winning attitude. I thanked our girls for working hard and improving every game.”

Reeltown drew the third seed in the 2A, Region 6 area tournament hosted by Horseshoe Bend. The Generals

defended their area title by defeating Lanett, but almost had to meet Reeltown.

Reeltown lost to Lanett in three sets, but gave the Panthers a fight to the bitter end, falling 25-22, 25-18, 25-12.

Early in the first set, Lanett pushed the score to a hefty 17-9 lead. It looked early like the Rebels were going to struggle mightily

against the immense size of Lanett’s front. But behind clutch serving from Taylor Mann, the Rebels got the game to 24-22. Falling by only three points in the opener, Reeltown was still alive.

In the second, things were close all the way. Reeltown stayed within two to three points of

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

Bear Woods and the Wetumpka football team are looking to rebound in a big way.

The Indians (4-4, 3-2) are coming off their bye week and are playing in what Woods said is his team’s most important game of the season.

Wetumpka’s last game before the bye was a blowout loss to Montgomery Carver, and now Wetumpka hits the road back to Montgomery one last time this year.

Wetumpka is facing Sidney Lanier (5-3, 3-2) on Thursday in the Cramton Bowl. With both teams having a 3-2 record in AHSAA Class 6A, Region 2, the winner of the matchup will be the No. 3 seed in the playoffs while the loser will be No. 4. Montgomery Carver and Pike Road have already secured home field advantage.

“It’s going to be about finishing what we started,” Woods said. “We’re still on the ascension of a program in terms of a mindset change. With Thursday night being our last region opponent, we want to finish and the way we’re going to do that is with a great attitude and relentless effort. Those are the staples we preach here and our kids have done a good job with that this year.”

In Wetumpka’s loss to Montgomery Carver two weeks ago, Woods was not happy with the mental mistakes his team made on the field, espe-

cially on the defensive side of the ball.

In that game, Wetumpka had multiple broken plays in the secondary and it resulted in a big night for the Carver passing attack.

That resulted in 277 passing yards and four touchdowns with no interceptions for the Wolverines, whose lead was too much for Wetumpka to try and overcome.

Since then, Wetumpka has had two weeks to learn from those mental mistakes and try to fix the issues before their last game to determine playoff seeding.

“We have taken ownership of those mistakes,” Woods said.

“Being a former player, I get it. But it’s hard to watch mental errors take place repeatedly in big time games like that. We had the bye week at a great time. We got some great reps and talked about situations and techniques. We stayed at work and are trusting the process. Those players on the back end are looking forward to removing that sour taste out of their mouth from that game and those mental errors.”

Much like in the Carver game, Wetumpka will have its hands full with some really talented skill players in a high-powered Lanier offense.

The Poets are averaging 30 points per game this season, but have actually scored 31 or more points in six of

ELMORE COUNTY’S EVERSON SHINES ON BOTH SIDES OF THE BALL

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

There was no keeping

Cade Everson out of the end zone last week.

Elmore County ended last week on the losing side of a Hail Mary pass in a 41-40 defeat to Valley, but that didn’t stop Everson from having a big night for the Panthers.

The senior wide receiver and running back was nearly unstoppable as Valley had no answer for him on the ground or through the air.

Everson recorded 175 total yards of offense and three touchdowns in the loss. He had 13 rushes for 87 yards and two touchdowns. He also had two catches for 88 yards and one touchdown. He scored the team’s second, third and last touchdown.

For his performance, Everson has been named this week’s Elmore County Player of the Week.

Everson scored a touchdown nearly once every five times he touched the ball.

Down 7-6 in the first quarter, Everson took the direct

snap from the 13-yard line and went nearly untouched into the end zone after finding a hole on the right side of the defense.

After Valley scored again, Everson made his mark through the air. He caught a screen pass behind the line of scrimmage, and with the help of a massive block on the outside by fellow receiver Jabari Murphy, he raced 75 yards up the left sideline untouched as he put Elmore County ahead.

See EVERSON, Page B2

Battle of the undefeated happens Friday

STAFF REPORT TPI Staff

HIGHLAND HOME (9-0, 6-0) AT REELTOWN (8-0, 6-0)

THE PLAYERS

Reeltown: RB Arthur Woods has 21 total touchdowns this season and is averaging 149.6 rushing yards per game. … DE Baylor Clayton has nine sacks this season. … QB Jake Hornsby has passed for

11 touchdowns.

FOUR DOWNS Reeltown is 9-1 alltime against Highland Home, winning last season 8-7.

Highland Home has scored the most points in the region (391) and allowed the fewest (52).

Reeltown has scored the second most points in the region (378) and allowed the second fewest (75).

Highland Home’s only loss last season was to Reeltown.

NEXT UP: Reeltown on bye, Highland Home on bye.

LEE-SCOTT ACADEMY (8-1) AT EDGEWOOD ACADEMY (4-5)

THE PLAYERS Edgewood Academy: QB Brock Whitt has scored 4 TDs in his last 4 games. … WR/

DB Gabe LeMaster intercepted two passes and had 89 rushing yards last week. … LB/ RB Parker Shaw was held out of the end zone last week, but still recorded 30 rushing yards and added 11 tackles.

Lee-Scott: QB Pelzer Reaves has completed 97-of-133 passes for 1,907 yards, 21 TDs, 5 INTs. … RB

FILE | THE TRIBUNE

Wetumpka’s Malik Owens catches a touchdown pass earlier this season. The Indians look to rebound and earn their fifth win of the year against Sidney Lanier on Thursday.

HENRY ZIMMER | THE TRIBUNE

Reeltown volleyball concluded its first season under coach Tammy Merrett, left, and finished with a winning record. For senior Sandrea Coleman, right, it was her best overall year of volleyball for the Rebels.

DALTON MIDDLETON | THE TRIBUNE

Elmore County’s Cade Everson runs past a Valley defender on Friday night. Everson had three touchdowns on offense and an interception on defense for the Panthers.

PICK’EMS

BATTLE

Continued from B1

Jonathan Meyers has rushed 89 times for 564 yards, 10 TDs. … WR Jake Whitt has 70 catches for 1,276 yards, 12 TDs.

FOUR DOWNS

Last week, Edgewood beat Lakeside, 7-6; Lee-Scott beat Fort Dale, 42-10.

Lee-Scott, the defending Class AAA champs, beat Edgewood 55-0 last season. Edgewood has won three-straight games and allowed only 14 points during that span.

Lee-Scott has not allowed over 12 points in a game since Sept. 15.

NEXT UP: Edgewood hosts Clarke Prep in the first round of playoffs; Lee-Scott has a bye.

PARK CROSSING (3-6, 0-5) AT STANHOPE ELMORE (2-6, 1-4)

THE PLAYERS

Stanhope Elmore: RB Arthur McQueen was held under 100 yards last week for the first time all season. … WR Jamari Coleman had 110 receiving yards and two TDs last week. … QB Jacob Bryant was 12-of-25 passing for 169 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT last week.

Park Crossing: QB Brayden Graham has completed 24-of-56 passes for 283 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT. … RB Solomon Beebe has rushed 78 times for 457 yards, 2 TDs. … DE Anicolas Hardy has recorded 35 tackles, 9.5 tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks.

FOUR DOWNS Last week, Stanhope lost to Pike Road, 52-14; Park Crossing lost to Russell County, 25-10. Both teams have already been eliminated from playoff contention. Park Crossing has scored over 14 points only one time this season.

Stanhope Elmore has lost five-straight games entering the week.

NEXT UP: Stanhope Elmore hosts Minor; Park Crossing’s season is over.

ELMORE COUNTY (6-2) AT HOLTVILLE (6-2)

THE PLAYERS

Elmore County: ATH Cade Everson has recorded 780 total yards of offense, 14 TDs this season. … QB Ryals McNeely has completed 48-of-88 passes for 701 yards, 8 TDs, 5 INTs. … RB CJ Wilkes has rushed 67 times for 454 yards, 7 TDs. Holtville: QB Keiland Baker has completed 82-of-148 passes for 1,189 yards, 10 TDs, 6 INTs; has scored 8 rushing TDs. … RB Hunter Chavis has rushed 102 times for 468 yards, 3 TDs. … WR Erik Adkins has 28 catches for 391 yards, 4 TDs.

FOUR DOWNS

Last week, Elmore County lost to Valley, 41-40; Holtville lost to Demopolis, 32-2.

Elmore County beat Holtville last season in a shootout, 63-48. Holtville already has three more wins than it did all of last season (3). Elmore County’s defense gave up 370 passing yards and 5 TDs last week.

NEXT UP: Elmore County hosts Jemison; Holtville at Tallassee.

HISTORIC

Continued from B1

Lanett until the Panthers mounted a late run, and Reeltown simply ran out of time in the set.

To start the third, Reeltown ran out of gas.

Down 13-3 early, the team finished the game strong, scoring nine late points but could not dig itself all the way out.

The way the tournament game played out was a microcosm of the season: either the Rebels got ahead early and closed the door, or fell behind and could not come back.

“We just have those games like we had (Wednesday),” Merrett said. “Our first set, we played fine. Our second and third set, they just didn’t have it. That happens.”

In the first year under coach Tammy Merrett, the Rebels are clearly on their way to building something special however.

The team only loses two seniors, granted two with a huge impact.

Sandrea Coleman and Leeandra Hooks will graduate, but the team will return the rest of its roster, plus earn some help from the junior varsity team that also finished with a winning record.

Volleyball has ignited at Reeltown under Merrett, and seemingly the coach

EVERSON

Continued from B1

is already anxious for the next season to start.

“I learned so much,” Merrett said. “They learned so much too. I think volleyball has taken over basketball as my favorite sport. I knew nothing about volleyball when I started. This was really huge.”

Later in the game, with Elmore County leading 34-28, Everson took another direct snap and hit pay dirt from nine yards out.

Everson served as the team’s wildcat quarterback for much of the night. The senior handed the ball off twice in the red zone, with running back CJ Wilkes scoring once and then Murphy finding the end zone once.

Regular quarterback Ryals

REBOUND

Continued from B1

their last seven games after being shut out in their opener. They average over 400 yards of offense per game.

Quarterback Jacques Thompson has passed for 1,354 yards and 13 touchdowns compared to only three intercep-

Moving forward, Reeltown is primed for success. Merrett has the program right where it needs to be. It is only a matter of time before winning seasons become the norm for those clad in blue and white.

McNealy scored the team’s other touchdown.

While Everson made his presence known on the offensive side of the ball, he also tried to keep his team in the game with a defensive showing as well.

“They know they can do it now,” Merrett said. “I think they all have that confidence going into next year. They see the positives. They don’t see that they are going to lose every game anymore. They see that they can beat anyone if they try.”

Elmore County’s secondary faced a tough test in Valley’s dynamic passing attack filled with height and skill players, but Everson was able to keep them honest by grabbing an interception in the second half. He nearly returned the interception for a touchdown, but was tackled around midfield. That turnover led to another score for the Panthers.

tions, and he’s added three more scores on the ground.

Running backs Trey Berry and Jimmy King are both averaging over 100 yards each on the ground, and there are plenty of talented players at receiver.

Jamarcus Howard leads the pack with 37 catches for 667 yards and 11 touchdowns, as

he is the main threat near the end zone. But Keondre Grant and Cordez Arrington each have over 20 catches on the season as well.

“Their skill players are tremendous,” Woods said. “They look like copy and paste from Carver. Their quarterback is arguably a top 2 quarterback in our region. When I look at

what they have offensively, they have a lot of guys they can spread the ball out to. They are that good.”

Sidney Lanier is also coming off a loss to Montgomery Carver. The Poets lost in their annual rivalry game, 39-21, last Friday night. Before that game, however, Lanier had won four straight games.

Local volleyball teams vying for state tournament

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

Three county volleyball teams begin postseason play today in Montgomery. Wetumpka, Stanhope Elmore and Elmore County will each play in their classification’s regional tournament today at the Cramton Bowl.

The Top 16 teams from the south in each class are meeting in a single-elimination tournament. Each team in the Herald and Tribune coverage area will begin on Wednesday, and must win two games if they are to advance to the state tournament next week in Birmingham. Here’s a look at each team’s path.

ELMORE COUNTY

Elmore County, which won the AHSAA Class 5A, Area 7 championship, will begin on the bottom of the bracket as a No. 1 seed.

The Panthers enter the postseason with a 26-7 overall record and will face Eufaula at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday in the first round.

Eufaula (18-9) has had a very successful season and finished area play as the No. 2 seed out of Area 5. The Tigers were runner-up to Beauregard and went 0-3 against them during the course of the season.

Elmore County and Eufaula did not play this year, but the Panthers did play Beauregard once. Elmore County won that matchup, 2-0. If the Panthers get past Eufaula, they’ll match up with the winner of Rehobeth (18-8) and Elberta (12-23).

WETUMPKA

The Indians claimed their area title with an impressive 3-0 sweep over Stanhope Elmore in the area championship last week. Now the Indians turn their sights to Murphy out of Mobile. The Panthers (7-10) enter as the No. 2 seed out of Area 1.

Wetumpka finished the regular season with a 15-8 record and winners of four-straight matches including the two wins in the area tournament. Wetumpka and Murphy will

begin play at 3:30 p.m., with the winner advancing to face the winner of Chilton County and McAdory at 6:30 p.m.

STANHOPE ELMORE

The Mustangs have the toughest draw of any of the three county teams, and that’s mostly due to being the No. 2 seed entering the tournament. Stanhope Elmore (15-10) will take on No. 1 seed and one of the Class 6A favorites to win the whole tournament, Saraland, at 2 p.m.

The winner of the matchup will advance to play the winner of Calera and Brookwood at 6:30 p.m. Saraland enters the tournament with one of the best records in all of AHSAA. The Spartans are 33-7 overall but actually enter on a slight cold streak. Saraland has lost four of its last eight matches after winning 26 of their first 28 games. On the other hand, Saraland has won three-straight games and has not given up a set in those three matches. The Spartans swept both Blount and Murphy, 3-0, in their area tournament.

Wednesday, Oct. 25

High School Volleyball

AHSAA Regional Volleyball Tournament (Cramton Bowl)

Class 5A

 Elmore County vs. Eufaula, 11:30 a.m.

 Winner of Elmore County/Eufaula vs. Winner of Rehobeth/Elberta, 5 p.m.

Class 5A

 Saraland vs. Stanhope Elmore, 2 p.m.

 Wetumpka vs. Murphy, 3:30 p.m.

 Winner of Stanhope Elmore/Saraland vs. Winner of Calera/Brookwood, 6:30 p.m.

 Winner of Wetumpka/Murphy vs. Winner of Chilton County/McAdory, 6:30 p.m.

Thursday, Oct. 26

High School Football

 Lee-Scott Academy at Edgewood Academy, 7 p.m.

 Wetumpka at Sidney Lanier (Cramton Bowl), 7 p.m.

Friday, Oct. 27

High school football

 Park Crossing at Stanhope Elmore, 7 p.m.

 Elmore County at Holtville, 7 p.m.

FILE THE TRIBUNE

Stanhope Elmore’s Zoie Holmes goes for a dig earlier this season. The Mustangs are slated to face Saraland in the first round of the AHSAA Class 6A regional tournament at the Cramton Bowl.

Lake River & Classi eds

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Public Notices

Public Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE

Public Notices

y wit: LOT 2, BLOCK E OF THE 3 OF INDIAN HILLS SUBDI-CORDED IN THE OFFICE OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA

Tacoma Dr Coosada AL 36020 Said property will be sold “AS -

TY. 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, covenants, and matters of record

Public Notices

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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, to-

ORDINANCE NUMBER: 2023 688

AN ORDINANCE ESTABLISHING RATES TO BE CHARGED CUSTOMERS OF THE TALLASSEE MUNICIPAL WATER/SEWER SYSTEM

BE IT ORDAINED by the Mayor and City Council of the City of Tallassee, Alabama as follows:

SECTION 1: Effective as of the December 2023 billing, the following water and sewer rates shall apply for purchase of water and sewer usage from the water system of the City of Tallassee, Alabama: Gallons Water Sewer

2,000 gallons minimum$16.00 minimum charge$30.00 minimum - residential customers $30 minimum - Dixie Circle customers

2,001 - 10,000 gallons$5.35 each 1,000 gallons$3.40/1,000 gallons 10,001 - 50,000 gallons$4.62 each 1,000 gallons$3.40/1,000 gallons

In excess of 50,000 gallons $4.05 each 1,000 gallons$3.40/1,000 gallons

Industrial Class $1.95 each 1,000 gallons + $40.00 minimum industrial customers

$100.00 monthly customer charge $4.40/1,000 gallons

Housing Authority $1.95 each 1,000 gallons

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SECTION 2: If any section, subsection, sentence, or provision of this Ordinance be declared invalid for any particular application or circumstance, it shall not affect the remainder of this Ordinance.

SECTION 4: This Ordinance shall become effective after passage and publication. Dated this 10 day of October, 2023. SARAH HILL, Mayor ATTEST:

UNSTOPPABLE

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

The Elmore County volleyball team continued its 14 year stretch of area dominance last Tuesday night.

Elmore County beat Tallassee, 3-0 (25-10, 25-11, 25-15) and Marbury, 3-0 (25-14, 25-19, 25-15) in back-to-back games to claim the AHSAA Class 5A, Area 7 championship in its home gym. It is the 14th consecutive area championship for the Panthers, who are now an impressive 26-7 on the season.

Elmore County is now the No. 1 seed out of Area 7 and will play the No. 2 seed out of Area 5 (Beauregard, Eufaula and Valley) Wednesday in the first round of the South Regional Tournament held at the Cramton Bowl in Montgomery.

“It’s incredible because these girls just keep carrying on our tradition,”

ECHS coach Kim Moncrief said. “I told the girls in the locker room that I’m very blessed because every year we seem to get girls who want to carry that tradition and continue to win. It’s them. They’re the hardest working girls I know. I’m just blessed that they work as hard as they do.”

Elmore County made quick work of Tallassee in the first round of the tournament before taking a small break while No. 2 seed Marbury faced No. 3 seed Holtville.

The two of them went back-and-forth for much of their three sets, but Marbury pulled out a 3-0 (2518, 25-18, 25-20) win over the Bulldogs from Slapout.

Following that match, the Panthers hit the court against Marbury in the championship and wasted no time setting the tone in

the match.

Marbury scored the first point off of an Elmore County error, but that was it for the Bulldogs. The Panthers raced ahead on a 12-2 run and led, 12-3, then 15-4 before Marbury was able to get any momentum back.

It was too late, however, as Elmore County cruised to its first set win, 25-14, and took a 1-0 lead in the championship match.

“All credit to Marbury,” Moncrief said. “They played well and came back in the second and third sets, but it’s good to set the tone and prove to the girls that we need to go ahead and finish the game under our own terms.”

The second set was closer, but Elmore County held a four- or five-point lead most of the match and never let Marbury get too close before stretching the lead back out. The Panthers took a 25-19 set win and a 2-0 lead, and played a back-and-forth affair for much of the third set.

In fact, Marbury actually led the third set at the midway point, 13-12, but Elmore County clicked back into business mode and “These girls are extremely athletic and some of the most athletic girls we have had,” Moncrief said. “Sometimes they have to slack off a little bit and regroup and catch their breath, but they’re always coming back and closing out our games. We’ve allowed teams to take a few points and come back. We’ve talked about how that’s not a good strategy going into playoffs, but our girls are fighters and they’re going to come back and do the things they’ve done all year to be successful.”

While Elmore County’s offense scattered kills all across the Marbury back line, it was Elmore Coun-

Elmore County wins 14th straight area title

ty’s defense that stood out against a talented group of outside hitters from Marbury.

The Bulldogs were knocking down kill after kill against Holtville in the first round, but those shots weren’t falling as the Panthers racked up saves all over the court.

“One of our focus points this year has been our defense and our blocking, and tonight that played into our game plan,” Moncrief said. “Our defense has worked extremely hard to get touches on swings and to play tips and coverage very well. I think that helped us knowing we had to defend a good outside hitter like Marbury has. We knew they would be pushed tonight and that fell into what we’ve worked on in practice.”

DALTON MIDDLETON | THE OBSERVER

ABOVE: Elmore County’s Morgan Spear (1) looks to block a shot against Marbury in the area championship on Tuesday. Spear and the Panthers won their 14th-straight area title.

BELOW: Elmore County’s Ally Orr (14) looks for a shot against Tallassee in the area tournament.