Tallassee Tribune Sept. 27 2023

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

ler County,

Tuskegee man arrested for Tallassee shooting

surrendered Friday after his identity was revealed earlier in the day by law enforcement. No bond has been set for

Tallassee police Lt. Jon Rawls said. “ He was transported to the Tallapoosa County Jail.”

Central Alabama Crimestoppers said in a release Smith was possibly armed with an AR-15 style firearm, which investigators say was used in Wednesday’s shooting. Wednesday’s shooting occurred

PATTERSON CABIN

READYING FOR

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

OPENING AND

Bond denied for 6th shooting suspect

More details emerge in Aniah’s Law hearing

By LIZI ARBOGAST GWIN Managing Editor

All six suspects connected to the Dadeville

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

Obituaries

ROBERT LARKIN “BOB” FOMBY

Robert Larkin “Bob” Fomby, 95, of Tallassee, Alabama, passed away peacefully at his home on the morning of Wednesday, September 13, 2023. He was born January 29, 1928. He was a U. S. Air Force veteran of WWII.

Bob is preceded in death by his wife, Gloria McLain Fomby; sisters, Gwendolyn Weldon, Jeanette Dupriest, Hilda Grant and Anita Wilbanks and brother, Wilba Fomby.

Police Reports

TALLASSEE POLICE DEPARTMENT

SEPT. 24

• A stolen vehicle was reported on Notasulga Highway.

• Domestic violence was reported on Hillcrest Street.

• Identity theft was reported on North Dubois Street.

• A motor vehicle accident was reported on Freeman Avenue.

• A child custody dispute was reported on James Street.

• A domestic dispute was reported on Third Avenue.

• Harassment was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• Debris was reported in the roadway on Gilmer Avenue.

• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• Theft was reported on Magnolia Street.

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

• A domestic dispute was reported on North Johnson Street.

• Theft was reported on South Tallassee Drive.

SEPT. 23

• Suspicious activity was reported on Oak Heights Road.

He is survived by his daughter, Melanie Barry; sons, Robert Fomby, daughter in law Kathleen Dailey, and Jay Fomby (Sue); six grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren.

In his younger days, he enjoyed raising cattle, college football and always a cocktail or two with friends around 5 o’clock.

There will be a memorial service on Sunday, September 24, 2023 at 2 pm at Bethlehem East Baptist Church with Bro. John

was reported on Second Avenue.

SEPT. 22

• A domestic incident was reported on Hillcrest Street..

• Gun fire was reported on South Tallassee Drive.

• A juvenile runaway was reported on Notasulga Road.

• A domestic incident was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• Suspicious activity was reported on Redden Avenue.

• Criminal mischief was reported on Thompson Avenue.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Gilmer Avenue.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Ingram Street.

• Trespassing was reported on Eubanks Street.

• A welfare check was conducted on Greenwood Road.

• Animal control was requested on Hudson Place.

• Trespassing was reported on Magnolia Street.

• Trespassing was reported on Friendship Road.

• Assistance was given to another agency on Hillcrest Street.

Sparks officiating. Expressions of sympathy may be contributions in his memory to VFW Post 4572, 100 Otter Track Rd, Wetumpka, AL 36092 . Online condolences may be posted at www.linvillememorial. com. To order memorial trees in memory of Robert Larkin “Bob” Fomby, please visit our tree store.

Linville Memorial Funeral Home and Crematory, Eclectic, Alabama

• A suspicious person was reported on South Dubios Street.

• A domestic dispute was reported on Lower Tuskegee Road.

• Animal control was requested on Central Boulevard.

• Motor vehicle accident with no injuries was reported on Barnett Boulevard.

• Animal control was requested on Freeman Avenue.

• Animal control was requested on Central Boulevard

• Animal control was requested on Central Boulevard.

• Theft was reported on Seventh Street.

• Animal control was requested on Central Boulevard.

• Animal control was requested on Riverside Avenue.

• Animal control was requested on Central Boulevard.

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

• A welfare check was conducted on Thelma Drive.

SEPT. 20

• A welfare check was conducted on Jefferson Street.

• A juvenile complaint was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• Theft was reported on Hillcrest Street.

• A motor vehicle accident was reported on Rifle Range Road.

• Theft was reported on Notasulga Road.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Notasulga Road.

• Elder abuse was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Barnett Boulevard.

• A suspicious subject was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• An abandoned vehicle was reported on Highway 229.

• A white female was arrested during a suspicious activity call on Indian Trail.

• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• An arrest was made on Walnut Street.

• A civil disturbance

• Theft of services was reported on Thelma Drive.

• Animal control was requested on Gilmer Avenue.

• A juvenile complaint was reported on Macedonia Road.

• Animal control was requested on Hudson Place.

SEPT. 21

• A juvenile complaint was reported on Rickey Lane.

• Gunfire was reported on South Tallassee Drive.

• A suspicious person was reported on Central Boulevard.

• A juvenile complaint was reported on Rickey Lane.

• An assault was reported on Wall Street.

• Harassing communications was reported on Third Avenue.

• A reckless driver was reported on Highway 229.

• Assistance was given to another agency on Riverside Avenue.

• A domestic complaint was reported on North Ann Avenue.

• Theft was reported on Freeman Avenue.

• A welfare check was conducted on Riverside Avenue.

• Breaking and entering a vehicle was reported on Barnett Boulevard.

• Animal control was requested on Adams Street.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on South Central Boulevard.

• An animal complaint was reported on Central Boulevard.

• Theft was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

Suzie is a beautiful chocolate lab who is about 7 years old. She just craves attention, adores people and is beyond sweet and loving. Sadly, Suzie was heartworm positive but she has completed her treatment so is now ready to find her forever family. Yes, Suzie is a bit older but once you meet her, you will understand why we went to that extra effort as she is an absolutely lovely lady with many, many years of love to give. She is fantastic with children, dogs and cats.

• A fight in progress was reported on First Street.

SEPT. 19

• Harassment was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• Theft was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• Animal control was requested on Riverside Avenue.

• Animal control was requested on Cliff Street.

• A suicidal subject was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• Theft was reported on Lower Tuskegee Road.

• Assistance was given to a citizen on Grimes Street.

• A welfare check was conducted on King Street.

• Animal control was requested on Riverside Avenue.

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

• Animal control was requested on Riverside Avenue.

• Animal control was requested on Central Boulevard.

• Suspicious activity was reported on Freeman Avenue.

• A white male was arrested during a traffic stop on Sixth Street.

SEPT.18

• A white female was arrested during a traffic stop on Lower Tuskegee Road.

• A suspicious person was reported on Central Boulevard.

• Assistance was given during a medical call on Hillcrest Street.

• An abandoned vehicle was reported on Lower Tuskegee Road.

• Assistance was given to another agency on Macedonia Road.

WETUMPKA POLICE DEPARTMENT

SEPT. 17

• Animal control was reported on Riverside Avenue.

• Theft was reported on U.S. Highway 231. SEPT. 11

• Theft and criminal trespass was reported on U.S. Highway 231.

The Humane Society of Elmore County’s adoption fees are $100 for dogs and $50 for cats under 1 year old. Cats over 1 can be adopted by approved adopters for a fee of their choosing. This adoption fee covers the mandatory spay or neuter, basic immunizations, deworming, microchip, heartworm check for dogs, rabies vaccination if old enough and a free health exam with your participating veterinarian. If you are interested in meeting Cola or any of the pets at HSEC, the first step is to fill out an adoption application online. Once approved, you will be contacted by someone from the humane society. HSEC is located at 255 Central Plank Road in Wetumpka. The phone number is 334-5673377 and the website is www. elmorehumane.org.

Pet of the Week - Suzie

Commission honors county fire firefighters

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

It was a small token of appreciation. A simple vote by the five member Elmore County Commission honored firefighters serving in Elmore County. The commission approved a Firefighter Appreciation Proclamation at its Monday meeting. Commissioner Mack Daugherty recalled the formation of the Kowaliga Fire Department using old equipment and tarp instead of a fire house. He said things have come a long way since, and now the county depends on fire departments and the fire-

fighters. “We could not thank you enough,” Daugherty said at the meeting. “I don’t see how this county could operate without fire departments.”

Commission Henry Hines said he has seen what firefighters can do. He recalled the response during two January tornados in northern Elmore County. Hines said without the volunteers who responded to those incidents and many more, there might not have been as quick a recovery. In other action the Elmore County Commission:

• Approved minutes of the Sept. 11 meeting.

• Approved the memorandum of warrants for Sept. 2 - 15 in the amount of $2,415,557.67.

• Set a public hearing for comments on the possible vacation of a portion of Maverick Circle for 5 p.m. Oct. 23.

• Appointed Cory Puckett and Oreste M. Johnson to the E-911 board.

• Appointed John Strickland, Harris Garner, Rhett Smith and Art Faulkner to the Elmore County Industrial Development Authority Board.

• Appointed Maria “Kathlenn” Calhoun, Jan Wood and Christopher B. Colley to the Elmore County DHR Board.

Donations are critical to shelter’s success

By REA CORD HSEC Executive Director

Huge shout, high fives and lots of thanks to the ladies and supporters of the Montgomery Roller Derby for taking our shelter under their skates and raising $1,000 to help our shelter. The club also gathered a wonderful load of supplies, and all of that will be put to quick use considering the high intake of animals we have experienced lately. We are certainly lucky to have such wonderful support and hope everyone helps us thank them in a huge way. Coming up fast from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 7 is our first-ever Paddles for Paws Pickleball Tournament.

Paddles for Paws will take place at 17 Springs in Millbrook to benefit our

shelter. With over 60 players registered to play we are off to a fantastic start (sorry, registration is now closed). We are still soliciting for door prizes and definitely need volunteers to help us make sure we have a successful day. Volunteers will work various areas and not necessarily all day so feel free to let us know when you are able to help out. To find out more, just email hsecpaddlesforpaws@gmail.com.

We do find ourselves with some shelter needs due to a shortage of donations. We are critically short on canned cat food as our first priority, but we can also still need dry dog and puppy food. For special cleaning needs we could use an influx of ammonia and peroxide.

Of course bleach and

Fabuloso are also always used as is liquid dishwashing detergent because we wash every food and water bowl every day. We greatly appreciate the support we received from our community.

Donations can be dropped off at the shelter from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday or items ordered online can be shipped to the Humane Society of Elmore County at 255 Central Plank Road, Wetumpka, AL 36092. Thank you to everyone who helps us and all the animals in our care. You can always see our shelter needs on our website’s wish list.

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

Input sought through quality of life surveys

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

The Elmore County Economic Development Authority is helping determine what are the next quality of life projects ECEDA and the Elmore County Commission will take on.

Most recently, the partners worked with the Elmore County Board of Education, the City of Wetumpka and the City of Millbrook for renovations at Hohenburg Field and the creation of 17 Springs.

Attention is now turning to Eclectic, Holtville and Tallassee for the next phase of projects. County and city leaders are trying to determine what projects Elmore County residents have interest in.

“We value the opinions of our residents and recognize that each community has different needs and wants,” ECEDA executive director Lisa Van Wagner said. “This is an opportunity for them to be heard as we move forward in this very exciting time for Elmore

County. We thank everyone in advance for their participation.”

ECEDA has created online surveys for residents to complete elmoreeda.com/ survey.

“We will use survey results to partner with the Elmore County Commission, the Elmore County Board of Education, Tallassee City Schools, City of Tallassee and the Town of Eclectic to develop specific projects for each community,” Van Wagner said.

A large portion of the work is being funded through a levelized lodging tax. Most of the lodging tax is collected in Millbrook and along the Interstate 65 corridor in Elmore County. Those funds make projects across Elmore County possible.

The Elmore County Board of Education recently passed a capital projects plan including broad ideas of these projects.

“We expect in Eclectic and Holtville for county board of education property to be utilized in these

• Appointed David Sturdivant to the Ridge Improvement District Board.

• Set a public hearing for comments for 5 p.m.

projects,” Elmore County Schools superintendent Richard Dennis said.

The county board of education has similar partnerships with Hohenberg Field, 17 Springs and the Wetumpka Sports Complex.

The first round of meetings between city and county leaders has already occurred for the next phase of quality of life projects.

Nothing is final on what those projects might be.

“They could be walking trails, pavilions with bathrooms or playgrounds,” Elmore County commissioner Henry Hines said. “It could be a combination of them. In the future we hope we can get to other areas of the county with projects.”

The surveys can go a long way with helping guide what the projects will be.

“We really hope people will take advantage by giving their input,” Tallassee Mayor Sarah Hill said.

“Everyone has been asking for a way to have input.

This is a way for them to do that and it’s easy.”

Oct. 10 for a lounge retail liquor Class II package alcohol license for G Mart Liquor at 10786 Georgia Road Eclectic.

ments to the fiscal year 2023 budget.

The next meeting of the Elmore County Commission is scheduled for 5 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 10

• Approved amend-

The Montgomery Roller Derby donates a $1,000 check to the Humane Society

ty after a day of raising money.

Humane Society of Elmore County News

Tallassee Talks

Who needs Christmas — now is the most wonderful time of the year

It was brought to my attention recently that I write a lot of heavy columns. I do think it’s important for opinion pieces to be well-thought out and have a stance. However, I’ve been touching on some sad subjects lately, so I decided to change it up a bit this week.

I’m here to tell you this is the best time of the year, and my advice is to enjoy it to the fullest.

What’s so great about the fall, you ask?

Truly, I think there is something for everyone this time of year.

We are about to be inundated with fall festivals and harvest markets, Oktoberfests and trunk or treats. No matter how old or how young, you can find something you enjoy in the month of October.

I am a horror movie junkie. Two of my three favorite movies of all time are in the horror

LIZI GWIN Managing Editor

genre, and I’m already planning an out-of-state trip to a haunted house. I love the adrenaline rush of being scared, especially with the fun of knowing it’s not real. Dudes in chainsaws are not actually going to kill me in a haunted house, so that makes it not just OK but hilariously fun. Call me crazy. I do like real hauntings too and ghost stories. In fact, our staff is planning an overnight trip to Harper Hill Cemetery, which is known to be one of the most haunted places in Tallapoosa County. I like the idea you can connect with people from beyond. I don’t know if I always believe it, but

I certainly am interested in learning more.

But even if you don’t like horror and ghosts and haunted houses, October is so much more than that. It’s when the weather in Alabama is (usually) perfect — the crisp mornings and the nights you have to grab a hoodie to sit out on the porch. It’s got the perfect pumpkin spice smells and just the right homemade treats.

Even if you don’t like scary stuff, Halloween can still be made for you. Who doesn’t love carving a pumpkin?

Again, you can make it scary or silly, and it’s still a fun activity to do for people of all ages. Roasting up those pumpkin seeds is also such a quick, easy and delicious snack.

Kids just love to dress up for Halloween, and most of the time they aren’t depicting scary characters. They

may be astronauts or farmers, teachers or football players. They sometimes even get to be a Superhero for the day. Who wouldn’t love that?

And, I do have to say, for those parents who dress up their tiny children as Chucky or Edward Scissorhands, those are some of the best costumes in my horror-loving opinion. They don’t know any better — and will think it’s hilarious years later when they do understand.

Of course my headline is a bit misleading because I do love Christmas, but I stand by the fact this is the best time of the year. And hey, I didn’t even have to mention football. Enjoy the fall, y’all.

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

Obituaries:

(Herald, Observer, Tribune). Obituaries are only accepted via the funeral home in charge of arrangements. We do not accept obituaries from individuals.

Weddings, Engagements, Anniversaries, or Birth

Announcements: These significant family events or milestones are 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.

85th anniversary celebration a special one

There are occasions in life so beautiful there are no words to describe them.

Recently, Dr. Robby Glasscock had the idea to hold a special birthday party for the 85th anniversary of the Tallassee High School Band and invite alumni to come home and perform. This was bigger and better than he could have imagined.

Tallassee can boast it has the second-oldest continuously operating school band program in the River Region. Only Sidney Lanier High School has had a band longer than us.

Tallassee City Schools founding superintendent Dr. C.B. Smith was about as forward-thinking an educator as we could ever have gotten to start our system. In 1937, he departed Tallassee to become the president of Troy University, where he remained until 1961.

Before leaving Tallassee, he planted the seeds for our modern-day music program by hiring shop teacher William Armagast, who just so happened to have attended Troy and studied music there.

Mr. Armagast taught Ag and shop but became our school’s first band director.

On Sept. 14-15, current band director Glasscock welcomed back nearly 150 alumni to join the regular band, creating a field-covering 250-piece marching band that

played three classics of our repertoire: “The Horse,” “Eye of the Tiger,” and “THS Loyalty.” Glasscock was also recognized for serving 23 years with our program, now second only to Mr. Ed Watkins’ 38 years of service as band director. We also recognized our oldest graduates on the field: Pat Merrett from the class of 1961; Miss Vicki Baker from the class of 1964; and Don Bryant from the class of 1965 (and, like his brother before him, drum major). We had several drum majors return to conduct the band: Leslie Baggett Swicord, Heather Knox Burton, Marty Johnson, Brooke Timmerman Barron (now our assistant principal), Courtney Steele, Yancey McBride Taunton and Hanna Brantley Pate. We had students fly in from Nebraska (Blaire Casey Hemphill), drive here from North Carolina (Tawny Fitzhugh Craft), and come to us from all points in between. We had mothers and fathers marching, playing and twirling with their children and grandchildren on the field at J.E. “Hot” O’Brien Stadium. We had WSFA-TV 12 on site choosing us as Band of the Week,

and impressed their producers so much they didn’t just feature us on Friday Night Football Fever – they put the Tallassee story on their regular news broadcasts. The vibe in the stadium that n ight was electric. The alumni band members came back and were in full support of their Tigers.

Since I teach on the choral side, I get to see a lot of students who would never have darkened the doorstep of a bandroom. More than one of the football players expressed to me how much they appreciated and felt the support of the band and the alumni at the Tallassee vs. Beauregard game. Although we lost the game, the Beauregard band showed respect and class by sticking around for our post-game show, even sending its official photographer over to our side to take professional pictures of our students performing. The next morning, I opened up our new $21 million facility for tours for the alumni band members who wanted to see our new digs. When we walked into the new choir room, one of them said with tears in her eyes, “Finally – a place worthy of who we are.” May we always remember who we are. We are the Pride of Tallassee!

Michael Bird is a music teacher for Tallassee City Schools.

MICHAEL BIRD Columnist

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a sentence on the friend of Baby Bear, Locks escaped, followed by an Elmore County bailiff to the chants of “Guilty.”

The jury was easily swayed by Mom E. Bear and Pop E. Bear but discounted the testimony of Locks’ friend Babe E. Bear. Little did the students know, the Bears and Locks were administrators from their school.

While the trial and escape were all fake, the lesson was all real. Lewis has been hosting Law Day at the Elmore County Judicial Complex since 2017.

“We started this when I first got on the bench,” Lewis said. “I figured this was a really good way to introduce kids to the court system.”

Lewis summoned the services of Wetumpka High School students to play the roles of defense attorney and prosecutor. Even Lewis’ sister and Elmore County Commissioner Desirae Lewis Jackson played a defense attorney for the mock trial.

“It helps us get involved with children at every level,” Lewis said.

“We have actors from Wetumpka High School. We have the administrators playing the role of the Bears and Gold E. Locks. When they pull off the hats, those kids realize it could be anyone in these shoes.”

The Bears each went to the stand to tell their story. They said Mom E. Bear’s porridge was too hot to eat that morning and went for a walk as it cooled. When they returned they found Babe

SUSPECT

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E. Bear’s porridge missing and beds slept in.

They saw Gold E. Locks run from the house.

Babe E. Bear took the stand after being called by Jackson. She admitted to visiting with Gold E. Locks the night before the alleged porridge theft.

“I knocked her window out with a ball,” Babe E. Bear said.

Babe went on to say she would share her porridge with Gold E. Locks as part of repayment.

Gold E. Locks took the stand in her own defense.

She said she went to the Bears’ home to get her

Sherman Peters III, 15, of Tuskegee, was denied bond Tuesday afternoon following an Aniah’s Law hearing.

Peters’ Aniah’s Law hearing was much later than the other five suspects, who were also denied bond, as Peters’ case was only recently transferred to adult court. He is charged with four counts of reckless murder, 24 counts of first-degree assault and one count of third-degree assault. All six suspects are charged with the same crimes, and the others — Willie George Brown Jr., 19, and Wilson LaMar Hill Jr., 20, both of Auburn, and Johnny Letron Brown, 20, Ty Reik McCullough, 17, and Travis McCullough, 16, all of Tuskegee — have been indicted by the grand jury on those charges.

Although bond was not granted, Peters’ attorney, Virgil Ford, did ask that Peters be allowed to continue his mental health treatment he was receiving prior to arrest. The decision, signed by District Judge William Wharton, granted this request.

“It is further ordered that the defendant be allowed to continue his mental health treatment while incarcerated and that the defendant’s counselor shall have reasonable access to the defendant to accomplish such treatment,” the order reads. “Counsel for the defendant shall assist in coordinating the mental health treatment for the defendant.”

Ford’s attorney also got the chance to cross-examine the state’s witness, Alabama Law Enforcement Agency case agent Jesse Thornton, who was the only person who testified at Monday’s hearing.

Fifth Judicial Circuit district attorney Mike Segrest also

SHOOTING

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incident,” Segrest wrote. “There is no immediate threat of danger to the community other than the

payment for the damage done to the home the night before.

The events played out in front of second grade students from Tallassee City Schools, Edgewood Academy and Elmore County Schools. Several times Friday a different school administrator or teacher became Gold E. Locks. Each time the students found them guilty.

Lewis said while the facts of the theft porridge case for the mock trial were trivial, the fun environment introduces the courtroom and its

entered into evidence the decisions denying bond in April to those suspects as well as the indictments from the grand jury, which were also signed by Whorton. He then confirmed in Thornton’s testimony that the circumstances of the case around Peters were the same as the other five defendants, who had already been denied bail.

Ford immediately addressed this point in his cross-examination, confirming if Thornton agreed the exact same.

“I don’t know that they were the exact same, but very similar I would say,” Thornton testified.

From there, Ford began to paint a clearer picture during his cross-examination of what may have occurred the night of April 15 in a shooting that left four dead and 32 injured.

Ford asked Thornton to describe how the shooting started.

“There were several individuals at the party who had guns,” Thornton testified. “There was an uneasiness about the party from people who were observing firearms.”

Thornton testified there was also an announcement made that anyone who had a firearm needed to leave the party. He also said a call was made to Corbin Holston, one of the deceased, who showed up at the party with a firearm. Ford asked Thornton to describe how Holston was dressed when he arrived.

“He had on dark clothing and a mask on,” Thornton said. “I can’t say if it was covering his face or not. It was pulled down at his neck when I arrived on scene.”

Thornton described it as a gaiter mask and said prior to COVID-19, having a mask on would likely create suspicion, but that’s not always the case now. He also testified at least one witness told him wearing these types of masks is a fad.

Ford went on to ask if Holston

random acts of violence that we are all subjected to daily.”

Segrest said he had asked for help from the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency and the State Bureau of Investigation.

proceedings to children who someday may find themselves there.

“I can’t tell you how many times I have someone in my courtroom on a divorce case and they say that is the judge from Law Day,” Lewis said. “They start telling me all sorts of stuff that is important.”

The day is more than a mock trial. Lewis has made the day all encompassing for agencies involved in the courts in various ways. The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency Aviation Unit had one of its helicopters

had approached and touched Peters prior to the shooting, to which Thornton said some co-defendants had said that but “there was no video evidence of that.”

A total of seven guns were used at the crime scene, including a 9 mm found on Holston after his death. Ford asked if Holston shot first.

“There’s no way to determine who shot first,” Thornton testified. “But from witnesses and other statements, the first shots came from that back corner where the suspects were located.”

Ford also made it clear at this time, there is no evidence to suggest a bullet from the firearm Peters shot specifically killed anyone, which Thornton confirmed.

However, Thornton also said by Peters’ own admission, he had discharged his weapon five to 10 times. He said it is legal in some situations to return fire if someone shoots at you first, but this is not one of those situations.

“No one can come into a room full of people and just start shooting wildfire,” Thornton said. He testified a total of 91 shell casings were recovered at the scene.

During his closing arguments, Segrest explained that because of accomplice liability, it does not matter who specifically shot and killed whom.

“(Peters) admitted to being there and shooting,” Segrest said. “With accomplice liability, all six suspects can be found guilty for all the murders. The other five were held without bond, and the state is arguing that you hold Peters to the same standard.”

The case will now head to the grand jury, where Segrest will seek indictments on all 29 charges the others were indicted for. If found guilty, Peters could face a maximum punishment of four life sentences plus 481 years.

Law enforcement left the scene about 9 p.m. Wednesday.

Assisting the Tallassee Police Department was the Tallapoosa County Sheriff’s Department, the Eclectic Police Department, the Tuskegee Police

Department, the Macon County Sheriff’s Department, U.S. Marshals Task Force, Haynes Ambulance and Tallapoosa County coroner Mike Knox. Authorities have not released the name of the victim.

in the parking lot. The Elmore County Sheriff’s Office had its tactical and dive teams there. The Elmore County EMA, Wetumpka, Coosada, Redland fire departments, the Alabama Forestry Commission, Butterfly Bridge Children’s Advocacy Center and others greeted students in a non-threatening environment.

“We want to show them the agencies that are here for them,” Lewis said. “Oftentimes kids in the situations we see them in have adults telling them police and courts are bad. We want them to know we are here to protect them.”

CLIFF WILLIAMS THE TRIBUNE

Judge Bill Lewis swears in a witness during the trial of the century on Friday as part of Law Day in Elmore County.

Wetumpka man arrested for shooting black bear

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

Videos of a black bear in Wallsboro just north of Wetumpka have been making the rounds for several days. But now, the bear is dead and a Wetumpka man is in jail.

Michael Cole Watkins, 32, of Wetumpka was arrested by Elmore County sheriff deputies Thursday morning for shooting the bear after law enforcement secured the carcass of a black bear. Watkins was charged with hunting after dark and hunting during a closed season, according to Elmore County Jail records.

Matt Weather, the chief of enforcement with the Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, is hopeful this incident highlights the regulations that protect bears in Alabama.

“Hopefully this arrest will send a message and deter future wildlife reg-

ulation violations related to Alabama’s black bear population,” Weathers said in a statement. “If you see a black bear, just leave it alone. We want them in Alabama.”

ADCNR conservation education coordinator Marriane Gauldin said the bear was shot but could not say how many times until the carcass is further examined.

“This incident is still under investigation,” Gauldin said. “The type of firearm and how many shots, I can’t say.”

She believes the bear to be the same that was posted to social media pages including that of ADCNR.

“I posted a video of this bear on our Facebook page on Tuesday from the same area where it was killed,” Gauldin said. “It was killed very close

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to where the video was taken.”

She said it was a male bear and at least 3 years old.

“We are going to age it,” Gauldin said. “The Alabama Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries has possession of it. We will be able to obtain an age estimate by looking at the bear’s teeth.”

Gauldin said black bears are considered a game animal in the State of Alabama but that doesn’t mean they can be hunted.

“Due to low population there is no open season on black bears,” she said. Gauldin said black bears are basically harmless in Alabama.

“Alabama has had no reported incidents of an aggressive bear initiating contact with a human,” she said. “The thing to do

to produce educational programs and plays. Soon it will once again welcome guests thanks to the addition of bathrooms.

“We were handicapped for having public events because we didn’t have bathrooms,” Talisi Historical Preservation Society president Bob Taunton said. “The historical society spent $30,000 plus to put in the bathroom.”

To keep with the look a ADA compliant wooden structure was built but it was no easy task.

“It is a bigger job than you think because we put the utilities underground,” Taunton said. “We didn’t want wires going across the site. We ran water from the road to the back of the cabin to the bathroom. Then ran electricity beside it.”

Members of the society were trying to keep the look of the modern update fitting with the nearly century old cabin. The paint color was selected to go with the cabin.

“I think they did a good job in selecting the color,” Taunton said.

A decision to construct bathrooms complete with a septic system and field lines made sense to the society.

“Anytime we wanted to have an event, the first thing we had to do was rent porta-potties,” Taunton said. “That was a little better than $2,000. We couldn’t do anything that would make $2,000.”

With the bathroom nearly complete, the historical society is planning a grand opening and ribbon cutting in November.

“Our plans are to make this available for public events,” Taunton said. “It will be available for family reunions. It will be a great wedding venue. It is a beautiful site for a music festival.”

The cabin was built by Archibald Patterson as he moved from North Carolina in about 1845. It would

if you see a bear is don’t act surprised. Bears can be seen anywhere in our state.”

Gauldin said this is the time of year bears will most likely be seen in Alabama.

“It is not uncommon to have bears seen in any Alabama county, especially male bears,” Gauldin said. “This male bear was doing exactly what we expect of male bears this time of year.”

It is likely the bear was looking for a new home and/or a mate.

If you are lucky enough to observe a black bear, WFF offers these suggestions for such an encounter:

• Do not be frightened

• Do not approach the animal

• Do not run from the bear; back away slowly

• Stand tall and upright and make loud noises

• Avoid direct eye contact with the bear

• Make sure the bear has an unobstructed direction to escape

• Never purposely feed a bear

“Remove any attractants,” Gauldin said.

“If you find a bear is visiting your feeders or trash, make sure to remove them for at least 10 days, until the bear moves on so it doesn’t become acclimated to receiving food from humans.”

Harming or killing a black bear is a Class A misdemeanor in the State of Alabama and carries a punishment of up to one year in jail if convicted. Watkins posted a $7,000 bond Thursday afternoon and was released from the Elmore County Jail

take him nearly a year to construct the home on 600 acres and his family moved in.

Taunton said the Talisi Historical Preservation Society acquired the cabin more than three decades ago as the Carrville Historical Society dissolved. It began the process of preserving the home.

“It went through a couple of remodels before we got it,” Taunton said. “At one point someone put siding on it. It looked like a wood framed house. It wasn’t until we got into remodeling it that we found it was a log cabin.”

The front porch was rebuilt in the process. A large log was found to make the wide-plank flooring now seen on the front porch.

“We did have some custom sawing,” Taunton said. “The original boards are in the dogtrot.

Somebody thought it would be a good idea to have cedar posts as columns.”

The chinking between the logs of the cabin was replaced about seven years ago. A split cedar rail fence was added to help keep vehicles and ATVs from getting too close to the

structure.

Earlier this year Gov. Kay Ivey signed documents adding the cabin to the Alabama Register of Landmarks and Heritage. Throughout the last three decades the cabin has held educational programs such as plays with the Friends of Tuckabatchee telling the story of Tecumseh coming to the area in 1813 in an attempt to get all of the Native American tribes together to fight Andrew Jackson. Soon after Jackson would march from Wetumpka to Horseshoe Bend.

The society constructed a mound behind the cabin to serve as a stage. The live oak just behind the mound served as the council tree.

It all remains today. Along with the front porch, the society is planning a storytelling festival for April.

“It is a joint venture with the Friends of Tuckabatchee,” Taunton said. “It will be a two to three day festival with local historians sharing stories of the area. We hope to have a student contest and invite well known storytellers too. It should be a big event.”

CABIN

CLIFF WILLIAMS | THE TRIBUNE

Talisi Historical Preservation Society added bathrooms to the Patterson Cabin property in East Tallassee. Over the years the historical society has preserved the cabin and hope the bathroom addition to the property will allow educational programs and more.

SUBMITTED THE TRIBUNE

A black bear moves across a field in Alabama. A bear like this was shot and killed in the Wallsboro community of Elmore County this week.

WATKINS

God’s plan all along

sists of photos with inspirational messages that correlate to the picture.

I was leaving a friend’s house one day and noticed some of the flowers on her deck were going to seed. The message God revealed to me in that visual was something that was personal to me during that particular time, so I took a few photos. When I got home, I realized the flower photos I’d taken were sort of pale and a bit blurry. My plans were to go back to my friend’s house the next day to try it again. While I was running errands the next day, it occurred to me I’d forgotten to go to her house, so I decided to make a right turn at the next

MELINDA BLAIR Columnist

street and drive through a road that would get me back to her driveway.

On the path through the neighborhood where I’d cut through, there was a stretch of townhouses with beautiful flowers, and all of a sudden, I saw the same type of flowers I’d previously made photos of. I pulled into the driveway and walked up to the door to ring the doorbell.

The lady who lived there graciously granted permission for me to take photos and told me she recognized me because she knew my mama. At that moment, I recog -

Through the years, I’ve witnessed many times my plan B is actually God’s plan A. If I had carried out my plans that day, I’d have missed out on this beautiful blessing. My heart was soaring when I told her how God had arranged the entire event, because He loves her and our eyes filled with tears.

nized her and she invited me to come sit on her porch to visit for a while. A few minutes quickly turned into about 30, and of how thankful I was I’d forgotten to run by my friend’s house. Obviously, it was God’s plan that I stop at the lady’s home because she desperately needed company and someone to pour out her heavy heart upon.

Tallassee Churches

She was experiencing some very severe health problems and some painful family issues.

Through the years, I’ve witnessed many times my plan B is actually God’s plan A. If I had carried out my plans that day, I’d have missed out on this beautiful blessing. My heart was soaring when I told her how God had arranged the entire event,

because He loves her and our eyes filled with tears. I love watching God redirect my plans for His honor.

Psalm 37:23 Don’t you love watching how He orchestrates things in your own life? I certainly do!

Melinda Blair is a regular religion columnist for Tallapoosa Publishers Inc.

Dalton MiDDleton SportS eDitor dalton.middleton@thewetumpkaherald.com

Tallassee swim see success in season opener

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

The Tallassee swim team

splashed its way to a great start.

To open the 2023 season, Tallassee hit the road to Vestavia Hills and competed in the Vestavia/Hoover Sprint Splash. The Tigers were joined by 25 other teams from across the state.

Amongst a lot of competition, Tallassee proved to be one of the best to make the trip

as the women’s team finished in fifth place overall while the men’s team placed seventh. “I thought we did really well,” Tallassee coach John Mask said. “I was tickled. The kids swam really hard. We had a few kids out because they were at the Night of Bands, but overall I was really pleased with their effort. It was a long trip up there and back home, and we were happy with how they all swam.” In the individual races, it was

Elmore County looks to rebound for homecoming

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

Elmore County’s football team took a beating in its last game, and now the Panthers are looking to rebound in a big way.

Elmore County (3-1) is coming off a bye week following a 48-6 blowout loss to Central Clay County in region play. But now the Panthers are back at home for their annual homecoming game against St. Clair County (1-3), and they’re ready to prove that they aren’t the same team that lost by six touchdowns two weeks ago.

“When you lose like that, you just have to figure out what you need to work on as a team and approach it with a mindset of getting better each day,” Elmore County coach Kyle Caldwell said.

“I thought we had some really good practices this past week and we found that edge and got back to the basics. I feel like they’re prepared to go into this week with that same attitude. They have something to prove as a team.”

The bye week comes at a good time for the Panthers as they’ve been dealing with few injuries.

The biggest of the group is running back CJ Wilkes, who was hurt in the first half of the first game of the year. He returned in the loss to Central Clay, but was only around 85% according to Caldwell. In

that game, he rushed 14 times for 50 yards. He’s now back at full health, and a few lingering injuries on the offensive line have healed up.

Now the Panthers are feeling good heading into a four-week stretch that features this week’s non-region matchup for homecoming before playing three-consecutive region games against Tallassee, Beauregard and Valley.

The Panthers, now 1-1 in region play, need to win all three if they want to be hosting a playoff game in November.

“We are getting into the heavy region portion of our schedule,” Caldwell said. “We have three in a row so being able to have everyone back from injury is huge. We’re going to be back full speed before region play is important.”

Before region play picks back up, however, the Panthers have to take care of St. Clair County on Friday for homecoming.

St. Clair County enters the game with a 1-3 overall record and on a three-game losing streak.

The Fighting Saints have lost to Corner, Leeds and Southside Gadsden by a combined 124-20 in those games.

St. Clair County will throw some different formations at teams, as they run a 3-3-5 defense and use a lot of movement on the

none other than Macey Stewart who shined for the Tigers.

Stewart is a household name across the AHSAA swimming community as she has won seven state championships during her high school career.

With all eyes on her, she didn’t disappoint in the season opener as she won the gold in the 100-meter freestyle and silver in the 50-meter freestyle.

“She’s just phenomenal,”

SWIM, Page B3

FRESHMAN MORRIS TAKES OVER AS TALLASSEE QUARTERBACK

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

Tallassee’s offense has seen a major change at the helm.

After three weeks of little to no success, Tallassee head coach Mike Battles had a difficult choice in front of him. He could keep things going as they were, or he could give the young guy a chance.

He went with the latter, and his choice has certainly paid off.

Two weeks ago, Battles threw freshman quarterback

Trent Morris into the starting position. The young gunslinger has gone on to lead the Tigers to a 1-1 record and their first two leads of the entire season.

After leading Tallassee to a 14-0 lead over Beauregard before losing in the second half, he shined in Tallassee’s 50-34 win over Marbury on Friday night. It was Tallassee’s first win of the season.

Tallassee received the opening kickoff, and after an offsides penalty put them near midfield, Morris found a wideopen Jaiden McKenzie down the seam for a 54-yard touchdown pass. That was just the start for See MORRIS, Page B2

“Trent did a great job with the football and our offensive line blocked well for him,” Battles said. “He didn’t get sacked a single time all night and was able to make plays for us.” It wasn’t a perfect game for Morris, but nobody expected him to be perfect in his second start of his career. What it was, however, was electric from the very first play of the game.

We have officially reached the sixth week of high school football in Alabama, and a lot of the teams in Elmore county have reached the midway point of their schedules. Four of the six teams in the county have already had their bye week, while Wetumpka, Tallassee and Edgewood Academy have played five of their 10 games. There’s been a good mixture of good starts, really good starts and poor starts to each season in the county. I like to think I have a good feel for each team so far this year, as I cover a game, or two, every single week and talking to and

visiting these coaches every week. So here is my opinion on each team, how they’ve started the year and how I think they can finish up. Football coaches, please don’t hate me if I write something negative. I’ll buy you a beer to make up for it. Hit me up at any time and we’ll visit the craft house over here by the office.

EDGEWOOD ACADEMY Edgewood Academy is coming off a much-needed bye week, and the Wildcats’ first half of the season was the definition of a struggle. They enter the midway point with a 1-4 record, but things aren’t all negative. Edgewood’s one win comes in region play, where the Wildcats currently have a 1-1 record with two games left. Their two region games left are against Hooper Academy (3-2) and Macon-East Academy (0-5) and both of those games are completely up for grabs. If Edgewood wins both of

FILE | THE TRIBUNE

Elmore County running back CJ Wilkes is back to 100% health after missing two games this season.Wilkes is the county’s leading rusher from a year ago.

DALTON MIDDLETON | THE TRIBUNE

Tallassee’s Trent Morris (16) runs against Marbury. Morris earned his first win of his young career in the game.

TEAMS

Continued from B1

those games, it is hosting a playoff game. If not, it’s still in the playoffs.

The biggest issue for Edgewood, from what I’ve seen, is the offense. Edgewood’s offense has scored one touchdown in two games and was held without a touchdown in two weeks. In its last game, Edgewood had negative offensive yards.

If the Wildcats can find any kind of success down the stretch with first-year quarterback Ethan Evans along with Gabe LeMaster and Parker Shaw, they could possibly make a run to the semifinals. But so far, it’s been a tough year and the schedule isn’t getting any easier.

Banks (4-1), Lakeside (4-2) and defending AAA champs Lee-Scott Academy (4-1) are all left on the schedule in non-region play.

ELMORE COUNTY

Elmore County finally got a taste of its own medicine last game. After out-scoring its first three opponents 15335, the Panthers were blown out in their last game by No. 3-ranked Central Clay County. The Panthers are now 3-1 and 1-1 in region play.

The positive? Nobody else on the schedule is anywhere as good as Central Clay and now Elmore County is coming off its bye week. The Panthers are still very much capable of winning eight or nine games this year and hosting a playoff game. And I wouldn’t be surprised if that ends up happening.

Star running back CJ Wilkes is finally back, and the trio of Wilkes, Jabari Murphy and Cade Everson are going to cause issues for every single team left on Elmore County’s roster.

That begins with a homecoming match this week against St. Clair County (1-3). The Panthers get back-toback weeks of what should be shape-up weeks before a massive two-game stretch against region opponents Beauregard and Valley. Both games are must-wins if Eclectic wants a home playoff game.

HOLTVILLE

Holtville is good. Holtville could possibly be really good.

The Bulldogs are 3-1 and coming off their bye week. Yes, they’re 3-1. That is not surprising, but it has been quiet. The Bulldogs aren’t blowing anyone out, but they’re winning consistently. Their wins are by 4, 23 and 21 points.

Holtville’s three wins already matches last year’s win total, and Holtville’s schedule still features three one-win teams on it. I’ve seen them twice already this season, and the Bulldogs really are much-improved from a year ago.

The run game on offense is brutal, and Holtville’s linebackers and defensive line are flying around to the ball. In region play, Holtville is 2-0 and already took down Selma, who finished No. 2 last year and hosted a playoff game.

Now the Bulldogs have Jemison (1-3, 0-2) and Marbury (1-4, 0-2) left before a massive showdown with Demopolis (3-1, 2-0) on Oct. 20. Unless something changes in the next three weeks, that should be for the region championship.

I think Holtville wins, at least, six games and possibly seven depending on how the West Blocton game goes this week. Be on the lookout for Boykin-Chapman field to be hosting a playoff game in November.

STANHOPE ELMORE

Stanhope Elmore is probably the toughest team for me to gauge at the moment. Part of that is because the Mustangs are the only team I have not seen play a game in person yet this season. Don’t worry, that changes this week. I will see them in back-toback weeks.

The Mustangs have already had their bye week, and they enter this week with a 2-2 record.

This team could easily be 4-0, and they could easily be 1-3. Every single game has been close, and it seems like they just find ways to lose with turnovers. Both of their losses had multiple turnovers in the red zone. Despite that, I do think this is a good team and they will likely find themselves in the playoffs.

I don’t know if they’ll host or not, but they should be in there and will cause issues for a lot of teams. The Mustangs are bullies up front on both sides of the ball. They’re averaging close to 250 rushing yards per game while Donnie Arnold and the defensive front are constantly hitting the quarterback.

Stanhope (2-2, 1-1) has four region games left with Wetumpka (2-3, 1-1), Park Crossing (2-3, 0-3), Pike Road (3-2, 2-0) and Sidney Lanier (2-2, 1-1). They have to win two of those to make the playoffs. Park Crossing should be one win, but then the Mustangs have to sneak one away from Wetumpka, Pike Road or Lanier.

We’ll see.

TALLASSEE

You’re kidding yourself if you didn’t think Tallassee would be down this year. The Tigers lost A LOT of talent from their roster last year. That inexperience has shown early as they lost their first four games.

But they’re getting better. In back-to-back weeks, Tallassee has led in the second half. The Tigers eventually gave up the lead to Beauregard, but leading for an entire half and some change is a feat within itself. This last week, Tallassee led from start to finish. That ground and pound, punch you in the mouth Tallassee football that everyone is used to seeing looks to be making its way back.

Don’t let the Tigers get hot. They’re scrappy, and they hit hard, and they could surprise some folks. The record may not show it, but they’re finding their way.

The negative, however, is that Tallassee is already 0-2 in region play and still has two very tough games against Elmore County and a much-improved Valley team left.

I don’t know if this group makes the playoffs, but they could play spoiler and ruin someone’s seeding hopes if they’re clicking on the right night.

There’s three or four winnable games down the stretch for this bunch, but we’ll have to wait and see how much momentum they can build off last week’s blowout of Marbury.

WETUMPKA

Don’t let the 2-3 overall record fool you. This is not a bad Wetumpka team. The Indians were handled, pretty easily it seemed, by Benjamin Russell, Baker and Pike Road to start the season. But that was always a strong possibility. That’s arguably the toughest three-game stretch to open the season across the entire state.

But now they’re rolling. Wetumpka has won two straight and scored 89 points in the process. The Wetumpka offense has started hitting the big plays they weren’t hitting before, and quarterback Nate Rogers is unstoppable on the ground. He has six rushing touchdowns in the last two games, and 12 total on the year. Wetumpka hits the road this week for what should be an easy win at Greenville, then the real season begins. Three region games in a row against Stanhope Elmore, Carver and Sidney Lanier. The Indians are currently 2-1 in region play, so they really only need one win to make the playoffs. Two secures a playoff spot however, so look for Rogers and company to give all they can down the stretch.

I wouldn’t be surprised to see this team as the No. 2 seed in the region. They’re as battle-tested as any team in the state.

Dalton Middleton is the sports editor of The Wetumpka Herald and The Tallassee Tribune.

Tallassee looks to build on last week’s success

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

CHILTON COUNTY (2-3)

AT TALLASSEE (1-4)

THE PLAYERS

Tallassee: QB Trent Morris completed 6-of-10 passes for 164 yards, 2 TDs, 2 INTs last week. … RB Christian McCary rushed 12 times for 143 yards, 2 TDs. … RB Jaiden McKenzie rushed 3 times for 22 yards, 1 TD; recorded 1 catch for 54 yards, 1 TD.

Chilton County: QB Logan Coppedge has completed 76-of-139 passes for 791 yards, 7 TDs, 4 INTs. … RB DJ Jackson has rushed 80 times for 432 yards, 6 TDs. … DE Ricardo Parker has recorded 25 tackles, 7 tackles for loss, 6 sacks.

FOUR DOWNS

Last week, Tallassee beat Marbury, 50-34; Chilton County beat Calera, 37-3.

Chilton County beat Tallassee last year, 24-21, in overtime.

Tallassee leads the all-time series between the two schools, 12-9.

Tallassee’s defense is allowing 39 points per game this season.

NEXT UP: Tallassee hosts Elmore County; Chilton County hosts Benjamin Russell.

STANHOPE ELMORE (2-2) AT PRATTVILLE (1-3)

THE PLAYERS

Stanhope Elmore: RB Arthur McQueen rushed for over 100 yards in his thirdstraight game. … QB Jacob Bryant has scored at least 1 TD in every game this season. … WR Jamari Coleman recorded 4 catches for 73 yards, 1 TD last week.

Prattville: QB Gavin Rigdon has completed 53 of 106 passes for 782 yards, 5 TDs, 5 INTs. … RB Donovan Arrington has rushed 76 times for 439 yards, 4 TDs. … LB Luke Gordon has recorded 35 tackles, 2 tackles for loss.

FOUR DOWNS

Last week, Stanhope Elmore lost to Carver, 20-6; Prattville lost to Opelika, 38-13.

Prattville beat Stanhope Elmore last season, 49-10. This is Prattville’s homecoming game.

Prattville’s defense is allowing 38 points per game this year.

NEXT UP: Stanhope Elmore at Wetumpka; Prattville hosts Enterprise.

MORRIS

Continued from B1

Morris and the Tigers’ offense.

Morris went on to complete 6 of his 10 pass attempts for 164 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions. He later found Brodie Ellis in stride for a 28-yard touchdown pass, and he found Mason Battles multiple times across the middle of the field. He also made a few plays in the run game as he finished with

REBOUND Continued from B1

CLIFF WILLIAMS THE TRIBUNE

Tallassee coach Mike Battles speaks with Eli Whittington (9) in a game. The Tigers go into Friday night’s game with high expectations after their first win a week ago.

WETUMPKA (2-3) AT GREENVILLE (1-3)

THE PLAYERS

Wetumpka: QB Nate Rogers has rushed for 757 yards, 12 TDs this season. … WR Jamarion Thrasher, back from injury, scored his first TD of the season last week. … DE Ethan Blake scored a TD on a scoop-and-score against Russell County.

FOUR DOWNS

Last week, Wetumpka beat Russell County, 52-26; Greenville beat Selma, 33-0. Wetumpka beat Greenville last year, 42-21, and leads the all-time series 12-5. Wetumpka’s Nate Rogers has scored seven touchdowns in his last two games. Greenville is averaging only 13 points per game this year.

NEXT UP: Wetumpka hosts Stanhope Elmore; Greenville at Headland.

EDGEWOOD ACADEMY (1-4) AT BANKS ACADEMY (4-1)

THE PLAYERS

Edgewood Academy: QB Ethan Evans has scored 5 TDs on the season. … WR Gabe LeMaster has 3 receiving TDs and 1 special teams TD. … DL Zayne Talley has recorded sacks in multiple games this year. Banks Academy: QB Gerrell Perry has completed 29 of 47 passes for 641 yards, 10 TDs, 3 INTs. … RB Quenterius Chandler has rushed 26 times for 308 yards, 3 TDs. … WR Issiac Smith has recorded 13 catches for 374 yards, 3 TDs.

FOUR DOWNS Last week, Banks beat

seven carries for 23 yards.

“He’s doing well,” Battles said. “The kids around him are also doing well. Trent is a good little athlete. He’s still making some mental mistakes, but he’s a ninth grader. He’s learning from them. Every time he takes a snap, he’s getting better and better.”

This isn’t the first time Battles has gone through the process of starting a ninth grader at quarterback. Four years ago, Battles threw Tyler

defense to cause confusion and disrupt the offensive line. On offense, their team is filled with speedsters who can make defensive backs miss with ease, so Caldwell is stress-

Coosa Valley, 39-6; Edgewood Academy did not play. These teams met twice last year, and split the series. Edgewood won in the playoffs, 14-7.

Edgewood’s offense has scored one touchdown or less in four games this year. Edgewood has been outscored, 147-48, this year.

NEXT UP: Edgewood Academy hosts Macon-East; Banks Academy at Clarke Prep.

HOLTVILLE (3-1) AT WEST BLOCTON (3-2)

THE PLAYERS

Holtville: QB Keiland Baker has completed 43 of 81 for 648 yards, 5 TDs, 3 INTs; he has rushed for 119 yards, 2 TDs. … RB Hunter Chavis has rushed 63 times for 284 yards, 3 TDs. … LB Luke Strength has recorded 37 tackles, 4 tackles for loss, one forced fumble. West Blocton: QB Trey Lawley has completed 14-of26 passes for 141 yards, 3 TDs, 1 INT. … RB Nate Barron has rushed 49 times for 324 yards, 2 TDs. … RB/LB Cooper Deerman has 1 TD on offense and 1 INT on defense.

FOUR DOWNS

Last week, West Blocton beat Montevallo, 10-7; Holtville did not play. West Blocton beat Holtville last year, 26-7, while the alltime series is tied 2-2. In its last game, Holtville’s defense recorded its first shutout since 2019. Holtville has already matched its win total from last year.

NEXT UP: Holtville at Jemison; West Blocton hosts Holt.

Ellis in as the starter and the dynamic athlete led the Tigers for four years as the starter. During that time, Ellis helped Tallassee to a 22-19 record and two playoff appearances. During his junior and senior seasons, Ellis’ experience certainly paid off as he led Tallassee to seven wins in back-to-back years and its first second-round playoff game since 2017.

Battles knows the struggles can come when the quarterbacks are young, but the reward is worth the struggles.

“We’re going through the same thing with Trent that we did with Tyler, and he ended up being a tremendous quarterback who is now in college,” Battles said. “Their ninth-grade year can be a struggle because they’re learning on the run. It’s not like they’ve had time to learn the offense. They’re thrown to the Tigers and learning as they go, but Trent is playing well and we have him for four years.”

ing the basics of making 1-on-1 tackles like the Panthers did in their first three games of the year. A lot of St. Clair County’s team also plays both sides of the ball, so Caldwell is hoping the Panthers’ tempo can cause St. Clair to get tired while his team is well-rested off the bye week. “They have some speedy guys and they try to get them the ball in space,” Caldwell said. “The teams they’ve lost to are good and much improved, so they’ve played good competition. We have to be prepared because they have some long and athletic players.”

Player of the Week

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

When Wetumpka needed a big play on Friday, there was no question who would have the ball in their hands.

And the senior quarterback delivered time and time again.

Much like he has done all season, Nate Rogers ran all over visiting Russell County as the Indians won their homecoming matchup, 52-36.

Rogers was responsible for nearly every touchdown as he rushed 22 times for 233 yards and five touchdowns, including multiple 50-plus yard touchdown runs.

For his efforts in leading Wetumpka (2-3, 2-1) in a massive region win, Rogers has been named the Elmore County Player of the Week.

“He is a special talent,” Wetumpka coach Bear Woods said. “He has been for two years now. He is the most dynamic player in this area of Alabama. More than that, he is a great leader. He does everything the right way. For a head coach, that is what you want more

Continued from B1

than anything.”

Rogers was the only player to find the end zone on offense, but he was one of a couple of players to make big plays when the game was still close.

After Rogers’ first touchdown run, defensive lineman Ethan Blake picked up a fumble and returned it for a touchdown. Rogers then scored on a 60-yard touchdown run, and Wetumpka led 24-18 when another Indian found the end zone.

Mask said of Stewart. “Even on her worst day, so to speak, she’s going to perform well. Even if she doesn’t feel well, she’s going to fight and still finish towards the top in any race. Some people have it and some don’t, but she definitely is a natural competitor and she’s going to push herself.”

Ivy Davis also had a good day individually for the women as she finished fifth in the 50-meter butterfly.

In the team 200-meter freestyle relay, Tallassee’s group of Stewart, Davis, Allison Johnson and Ella Chavedo placed sixth. In the

On a kickoff return, Jamarion Thrasher raced through the field and put Wetumpka up by two touchdowns. From there, it was all Rogers again. He found the end zone three more times and every touchdown destroyed the hopes of the visiting Russell County faithful.

For anyone who has followed Wetumpka football the last few seasons, it is no surprise to find Rogers in the end zone over and over again. During his sophomore and junior

medley relay, the same group finished fourth. Both of the men’s freestyle and medley teams also placed well. In both the freestyle and the medley, the team of Camden Mask, Tyler Hart, Brady Adams and Adam Aldridge finished seventh. Mask also had a really good day individually. He finished in the top three in two races as he won the gold medal in the 50-meter breaststroke and bronze medal in the 100 individual medley. That follows a really good summer where Mask greatly improved in the individual medley. Back in July, Mask won state at the Alabama Recreation and

season, he scored a combined 18 times.

Just last year, he rushed for 1,172 yards and 13 touchdowns.

But this year, he’s getting into the end zone at a ridiculous rate.

Rogers already has 757 yards and 12 rushing touchdowns this season, one away from tying his own personal best. That’s in only five games this season — compared to 11 last year. As Rogers goes, so does Wetumpka.

The Indians’ offense has started to click as they have won two straight, and Rogers’ legs are one of the biggest reasons why.

As Wetumpka tries to make a late playoff push this year, Rogers will continue to put up ridiculous rushing numbers week in and week out.

Park Association championships.

The Individual medley race requires swimmers to swim 25 meters in each of the four different strokes. So, he had to swim 25 meters doing each of the butterfly, breaststroke, backstroke and freestyle.

The breaststroke is Mask’s best race, but he has improved greatly over the other four races and that is evident after this summer and the team’s first race.

“I believe just overall, Camden has gotten so much better,” John Mask said. “He’s always been a breaststroker, but he’s getting better everywhere. Certain things come easier to certain people, and the breaststroke is his best. He works really, really hard.”

7 p.m.

Stanhope Elmore at Prattville, 7 p.m.

Edgewood Academy at Banks Academy, 7 p.m.

Chilton County at Tallassee, 7 p.m.

Wetumpka at Greenville, 7 p.m. 4 Holtville at West Blocton, 7 p.m.

Saturday, Sept. 30 High School Volleyball

Edgewood Academy Varsity Tournament, TBA

school cross county 4 Holtville at Oak Mountain 4 Wetumpka at Oak Mountain

Elmore County at Oak Mountain

Monday, Oct. 2

High School Volleyball 4 Chilton County at Stanhope Elmore, 4:30 p.m. 4 Holtville at Billingsley, 4:30 p.m. 4 Edgewood Academy at Hooper Academy, 5 p.m.

Wetumpka at Marbury, 5:30 p.m.

Tuesday, Oct. 3

High School Volleyball

4 Tallassee at Beauregard, 4:30 p.m. 4 Holtville at Marbury, 4:30 p.m. 4 Elmore County at Wetumpka, 5:30 p.m. 4 Edgewood Academy at Lee-Scott Academy, 5 p.m.

ONLINE Vote for our Fan’s Choice Player of the Week online now!

SWIM

Wetumpka’s Nate Rogers has been named the Elmore County Player of the Week after rushing for 233 yards and five touchdowns against Russell County.

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SUBMITTED

The 2023 Elmore County High School homecoming queen will be announced during

ceremonies before Friday’s game with St. Clair County.The homecoming court is: front, Bethany Davis, left, and Payton Jackson; middle Sydney Boardwine,left, Jayla Brooks, Alexis Downey and Addison Hicks; back Bailey Arnold, left, Addie Patterson, Addi Stephenson and Ally Orr. Homecoming queen nominees are Brooks, Davis, Downey and Jackson.

Virginia Thomas Wingard celebrated her 103rd birthday Sept. 17 with cake and ice cream surrounded by family.The Eclectic resident was born in Roanoke and raised in New Site. She married Eclectic native Glen Winged. They had two children: Glenda Wingard Hughes and Barry D. Wingard. They have six grandchildren, eight great grandchildren and one great-great grandchild. She lived in Albany, Georgia for 40 years as Glen worked on the Marine Base there until he retired. The couple returned to Eclectic 25 years ago.