Tallassee Tribune June 12 2024

Called to search

Volunteer leads searches for missing Tallassee man

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

It’s

but Sophie Hill has stepped up.

Tallassee man convicted of rape

TPI STAFF Staff Report

It took a jury 39 minutes to come back with five guilty verdicts against Roger Dixon. Dixon, 35, was charged with first-degree rape, first-degree sodomy, kidnapping, incest and human trafficking. The charges stem from a June 2021 incident in Tallassee involving a 19-year-old

Tallassee

victim who was kin to Dixon. “I would like to thank our law enforcement partners in this case,” Fifth Judicial Circuit District Attorney Mike Segrest said in a statement. “This

resident watched D-Day from submarine

TPI STAFF Staff Report

Harry Ural Jackson

Jr. can recall the sights and sounds of the D-Day invasion as if they were yesterday.

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

Students

“I was not prepared for this sight of the dead and dying and the sound of the

Jackson was onboard the U.S.S. Submarine Chaser 1330 as the U.S. Navy started to hurl artillery at the beaches in Normandy on June 6, 1944. Jackson was on the surface as boats carrying soldiers to the beach were stopped in the water. He saw many casualties, especially LCT 777.

Lake Martin’s Best Source for News and Information.

Tallapoosa Publishers wins 68 APA awards

STAFF REPORT

TPI Staff

The Alabama Press Association announced a majority of its 2024 winners on Wednesday and for the second year in a row, Tallapoosa Publishers Inc. earned over 60 individual and staff-wide awards. Between TPI’s four newspapers and two magazines, 68 awards were claimed by the combined staff. APA awards are given out based on select criteria and are judged by writers and staff from papers around the country. In Tallapoosa County, many awards were won based on the persistent

Police Reports

POLICE DEPARTMENT

JUNE 10

• Assistance was given to another agency on Friendship Road.

JUNE 9

• A fight was reported on Seventh Street.

• A white female and a Black male were arrested during a traffic stop on South Tallassee Drive.

• A suspicious person was reported on Notasulga Road.

• A suicidal subject was reported on Macedonia Road.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Weldon Road.

• A private property accident was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Paxton Drive.

• A domestic dispute was reported on Paxton Drive.

• A disorderly subject was reported on Jordan Avenue.

• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• Suspicious activity was reported on Cottage Hill Court.

JUNE 8

• A domestic incident was reported on Friendship Road.

• Animal control was requested on Gilmer Avenue.

• A motor vehicle accident without injuries was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• An animal complaint was reported on Gilmer Avenue, Notasulga Road, Sunset Drive and Herren Street.

JUNE 7

• A noise complaint was reported on Third Avenue.

• Harassment was reported on Barnett Boulevard.

• A welfare check was conducted on Poplar Street.

• A juvenile complaint was reported on Redden

and relentless covering of the April 15 shooting. In Elmore County, photography and top-tier advertising caught the eyes of the judging panel. At the end of the month, winners of the upper level categories will be announced such as General Excellence, Story and Photo of the Year and Magazine of the Year. For five years running, the Alexander City Outlook has been awarded a General Excellence recognition.

THE ALEXANDER CITY OUTLOOK

FIRST PLACE: Best Production and Printing; Best Spot News Photo, “The

Avenue.

• A motor vehicle accident without injuries was reported on Central Boulevard.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Gilmer Avenue.

• Theft was reported on Dusty Road.

• Theft was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• Assistance was given to a citizen on Martin Street.

• Animal cruelty was reported on Ashurst Avenue.

• Animal control was requested on Hickory Street.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Gilmer Avenue.

JUNE 6

• A domestic incident was reported on Floyd Lane.

• A suspicious person was reported on McNeal Street.

• An arrest was made on Barnett Boulevard.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Gilmer Avenue.

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

• Criminal mischief was reported on Hillcrest Street.

• An animal complaint was reported on South Tallassee Drive.

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

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

• A domestic incident was reported on Highway 229.

JUNE 5

• A vehicle fire was reported on Roberts Street.

• A domestic incident was reported on Tallassee Highway.

• Assistance was given to another agency on Gilmer Avenue.

• Theft was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• Theft was reported on Notasulga Road.

shoes and the night I will never forget” by Lizi Arbogast Gwin; Best Use of Video (Shorter than 2 Minutes), “Backpack Buddies aids students who experience food inefficiency” by Abigail Murphy; Best Classified Page or Section; Best Original/ Creative Idea, “People Read” by Audra Spears; Best Innovative Online Advertising, Single Ad, “SNF Designs” by Hidey Arrington, Audra Spears SECOND PLACE: Best Editorial, “Clean Up Alabama is not protecting children, it’s hurting them” by Abigail Murphy; Best Human Interest Column, “It starts with one day a

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

• Burglary was reported on Macedonia Road.

• Trespassing was reported on Riverside Avenue.

• Animal control was requested on Wallace Drive.

• Animal control was requested on Eubanks Street.

• A motor vehicle accident with injuries was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• Debris was reported in the roadway on Notasulga Road.

• Animal control was requested on Sims Avenue.

• Suspicious activity was reported on Main Street.

• A Black male was arrested on Gilmer Avenue.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Third Avenue.

• Assistance was given during a medical call on East Roosevelt Street.

• A noise complaint was reported on Davidson Street.

JUNE 4

• A Black male was arrested during a traffic stop on Barnett Boulevard.

• An intoxicated person was reported on Friendship Road.

• A white male was arrested on Claire Street.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Hillcrest Street.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Gilmer Avenue.

• A white male was arrested on Barnett Boulevard.

• A private property accident was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• A noise complaint was reported on Fourth Street.

• Debris was reported in the roadway on Poplar Street and Highway 229.

• A white male was arrested on Barnett Boulevard.

time” by Lizi Arbogast Gwin; Best Spot News Photo, “Dadeville second prayer vigil” by Dalton Middleton; Best Special Section - Newsprint, “Gridiron Guide” by staff; Best Use of Video (Longer than 2 Minutes), “A Tale of Ghosts and Murder” by Abigail Murphy; Best Regularly Scheduled Special Section, “Progress-Opportunity Knocks!” by Audra Spears, Betsy Iler, Kenneth Boone; Best Niche Publication, “Frontline Heroes Coloring Book” by Audra Spears, Renee Trice, Hidey Arrington; Best Innovative

JUNE 3

• A domestic incident was reported on Riverside Avenue.

• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Highway 229.

• A civil disturbance was reported on Hillcrest Street.

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

• A juvenile complaint was reported on West Roosevelt Street.

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

• A domestic dispute was reported on Sims Avenue.

• An animal complaint was reported on Central Boulevard.

• Animal control was requested on Notasulga Road.

• A welfare check was conducted on Gilmer Avenue.

• A line down was reported on North Ann Avenue.

• Harassment was reported on Sims Avenue.

• Animal control was requested on Central Boulevard.

• Suspicious activity was reported on Friendship Road.

• Animal control was requested on Lilly Avenue.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Third Avenue.

• Animal control was requested on Rosewood Drive.

JUNE 2

• A noise complaint was reported on Ashurst Avenue.

• Assistance was given to another agency on Barnett Boulevard.

• A domestic incident was reported on Third Street.

• Harassment was reported on Sims Avenue.

• Animal cruelty was reported on Riverside Avenue.

• A noise complaint was reported on Third Avenue.

LIZI ARBOGAST GWIN | TPI

The Outlook won first place in Best Spot News Photo for this photo from the night of the April 15 shooting in Dadeville.

Humane Society of Elmore County News

Leave your dog at home in the heat

By REA CORD HSEC Executive Director

Sunday saw the advent of the hot Alabama summer days to come so no better time to remind pet owners to prepare for your pet’s summer safety. Dogs and cats do not sweat like us humans and, instead, pant to try and control their body temperature. Panting can only cool them down so much, so owners need to take the temperature into account in regard to pets living outside and summer activities with your pet. Shade, moving air if possible and plenty of clean, cool water are critical. Ensure your outside pet’s water is not only in shade but that there is a lot of water available to your pet. Plastic children’s wading pools can work great as some dogs will also lay in the water to cool off. You can even buy bags of ice to put in a pool for your dog to play in. Inexpensive box fans can greatly help as well with moving shaded air but please make sure your dog(s) cannot chew on the power cord and make sure to routinely clean the fan to reduce any fire hazard from accumulated dust and hair. Now we know of many awesome pet owners who have portable buildings, with doggy doors, all set up for their pets that are air conditioned and quite wonderfully appointed. Those are some lucky pets indeed! Where dog houses are concerned, they simply must be well shaded elsewise they are just mini-ovens that no pet

will want to go into. If you think an unshaded doghouse is adequate shelter for your pet, just crawl in one this summer and see how you like it. Our wish, of course, is for dogs and cats to be inside your home so they can enjoy the air conditioning or fans with their human family.

While it can be great to take your pet with you on daily runs, in all honesty, this time of year — please leave them at home. Your car can turn-into a killer oven in just a few minutes and you never know when that quick trip into the store turns into one longer than expected. Get stalled in a traffic jam and your A/C might give out or your car overheats. Many modern vehicles automatically turn off after a limited period of time if left idling. And the A/C on idling vehicles also can fail or simply quit cooling as well with devastating results. If you see a pet in a parked vehicle during these hot temps, please call the appropriate law enforcement so they can take any necessary actions.

We don’t see this like we used to, but no dog belongs in the back of a pickup truck – just don’t!

The bed of a truck is hot enough to scorch your dog’s paws so please put your dog in the cab of the truck with you so it too can enjoy the air conditioning and be much safer. Think your long-haired dog needs to be shaved to beat the heat? Maybe yes, maybe no – brushing out undercoat will go a long way to helping their coat ‘breathe’ and shaved

Continued from A2

Online Advertising, Single Ad, “Meek Dozer Services” by Hidey Arrington, Audra Spears

THIRD PLACE: Best News Photo, “Black Business Council Juneteenth Celebration” by Abigail Murphy; Creative Use of Multimedia, “Timeline” by Abigail Murphy; Best Single Ad ½ page and under, color, “Go Pro Wildlife” by Audra Spears; Best Single Ad over ½ page, color, “Hufham Farris” by Audra Spears, Renee Trice; Best In-paper Promotion of Newspaper, “Santa Reads” by Audra Spears; Best Use of Humor, “Winking Girl” by Tippy Hunter, Audra Spears; Best Innovative Online Advertising, Single Ad, “Holmes Guns” by Hidey Arrington, Audra Spears

THE DADEVILLE RECORD

FIRST PLACE: Best Sports Single Event Story, “The kick heard ‘round the state’: Field goal lifts Reeltown to state final” by Henry Zimmer; Best Sports Feature Story, “Rebels channel Chucky to beat Tallassee” by Henry Zimmer

SECOND PLACE: Best Sports News

In-Depth Coverage, “Overcoming Obstacles: Wilson wins Bryant-Jordan scholarship” by Henry Zimmer; Best Online Breaking News Coverage, “Mass shooting in Dadeville, April 2023” by staff; Best Classified Page or Section; Best Regularly Scheduled Special Section, “Dadeville Magazine” by Audra Spears, Betsy Iler, Kenneth Boone

THIRD PLACE: Best Production and Printing; Best Editorial, “The shoes and the night I’ll never forget” by Lizi Arbogast Gwin; Best Use of Graphics or Illustrations, “AU researchers conduct Camp Hill history project” by Abigail Murphy; Best Single Ad over 1/2 page, color, for “J.A. Smith, LLC” by Hidey Arrington

THE TALLASSEE TRIBUNE

FIRST PLACE: Best Feature Story Coverage, “Southside Middle School teacher of the year makes student education priority” by Cliff Williams; Best Presentation of Online Advertising

SECOND PLACE: Best Feature Photo, “Tallassee Pep Rally” by Cliff Williams

THIRD PLACE: Best Local Sports Column, “Woods should’ve been a 2A Back of the Year finalist” by Lizi Arbogast Gwin; Best In-Paper Promotion of Newspaper, “Cup of Tea” by Audra Spears; Best Innovative Online Advertising, single ad, “Community Hospital” by staff

dogs can suffer sunburn and overheat faster because they have no protection from the sun. Talk to your Veterinarian before shaving your dog down please. For those with ‘short-nosed’ dogs like Bulldogs, Pugs, Frenchies, Boston Terriers and more, keeping them in air-conditioning is critical! These snub-nose breeds are house dogs in the summer as they simply cannot handle the heat and will suffer heatstroke or death if left out in the high heat, even if they have shade. We hear of too many sad stories of these ‘bracychephalic’ breeds dying terrible deaths after a very short time left outside in our summer heat.

For all who love going to yard sales, flea markets and outdoor festivals/ events this time of year, please just leave your dog at home. You may think taking your pet with you shows how you love it, but far too many dogs are simply miserable (or actually endangered) on hot sand or pavement and would be much happier (and healthier) staying at home in the A/C, happy to greet you on your return. Our pets are not super beings able to withstand conditions that we don’t like ourselves. If you are miserable in the heat, your pet is too so please plan accordingly to keep your pet safe and happy throughout our long Alabama summer.

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

THE WETUMPKA HERALD

FIRST PLACE: Best Spot News Photo, “Lightwood tornado” by Cliff Williams; Best Use of Video (Longer than 2 Minutes), “The Wetumpka Herald’s 125th Anniversary” by Angela Mullins; Best Classified Page or Section; Best Regularly Scheduled Special Section, “FYI” by Audra Spears, Betsy Iler; Best In-Paper Promotion of Newspaper, “Be A Reader” by Audra Spears; Best Original/Creative Idea, “People Read the Newspaper” by Audra Spears; Best Signature Page, “Wetumpka High School Spirit Banner” by staff; Best Niche Publication, “Elmore County First Responders Coloring Book” by Audra Spears; Best Innovative Online Advertising, single ad, “Better Life Veterinary” by staff

SECOND PLACE: Best Human Interest Column, “Love More Now” by Cliff Williams; Best Sports Single Event Story, “Holtville’s Silas delivers in future stadium” by Dalton Middleton; Best One Time Special Section, “Wetumpka Herald Celebrating 125 Years” by staff; Best In-Paper Promotion of Newspaper, “Feed Your Brain” by Audra Spears; Best Signature Page, “Shelter Pets” by Audra Spears; Best Innovative Online Advertising, single ad, “Parker Tire” by Audra Spears

THIRD PLACE: Best Sports Single Event Story, “ROW TIDE: Holtville’s Hickey joins Alabama rowing team” by Dalton Middleton; Best Regularly Scheduled Special Section, “Horizons” by Audra Spears, Betsy Iler; Best Presentation of Online Advertising

LAKE MAGAZINE

FIRST PLACE: Best Community Event, “Plug Day” by Betsy Iler, Audra Spears; Best Column, “Nature of the Lake” by Kenneth Boone

SECOND PLACE: Best Overall Design; Best Community Event, “Clean Up Honor Roll” by Betsy Iler, Ben Smith, Audra Spears

THIRD PLACE: Best Sports Feature, “Fishing for a Living” by Ben Smith, Audra Spears, Kenneth Boone; Best Single Photograph, “Sunset Shoreline” by Kenneth Boone

LAKE MARTIN LIVING

FIRST PLACE: Best Photo Essay, “July 4th in Review” by Kenneth Boone, Cliff Williams, Lizi Arbogast Gwin

SECOND PLACE: Best Personality Profile, “Tommy G” by Ben Smith; Best Column, “Culture Shock” by Lacey Howell

THIRD PLACE: Third place: Best Cover Photo or Illustration, “Dadeville’s new Mural” by Jim Denney; Best Column, “Medical News” by George Miranda

Pet of the Week — Indigo

Indigo is a female who is 7 months old and weighs about 40 pounds. She is a wonderful young dog, very loveable, bouncy and friendly. She gets along wonderfully with other dogs and would love a family to call her own. We will leave her breed mix to your best guess though good chance some Lab in her.

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 334-567-3377 and the website is www.elmorehumane.org.

WINS

Cherish time with family

Father’s Day is coming up and on the heels of Mother’s Day. All the commercials tell us we should be buying moms and dads extravagant gifts to let them know how much we love them.

Despite what our bank accounts tell us, we all have the most valuable gift any parent could ever want — time. Many of us wait until the last minute to purchase gifts and let the internet tell us what we should buy. But often those gifts are put aside quickly.

Why you might ask? Parents and grandparents might be a generation apart. They might not understand technology, but they all understand time. They understand the value of conversation.

Moms want children and grandchildren to help in the kitchen mixing the batter for the cake then licking the bowls clean.

Dads want to share a cup of coffee with their loved ones. Maybe in a rocking chair on the porch.

Some might even just want to sit around the grill and talk about life.

It is quite simple. The older we get it is about the simple things and it gets no better than sharing thoughts and ideas over the stove or coffee. There is no need to worry about getting those socks or last on the rack ties for Father’s Day. Time beats it all.

Iwas recently talking to outgo-

ing Alexander City Chamber of Commerce president and CEO Jacob Meacham, and we were discussing his genuine love for Alex City.

Most people, myself included, can’t wait to get out of their hometowns. The grass is always greener on the other side, like they say. But Jacob said something interesting to me. “I’m a big believer in the grass being greener where you water it,” he said. I just loved that sentiment.

Regardless if you’re from the tri-county area or if you’ve implanted yourself into the communities like me, it’s always important to water our grass.

I encourage every person to do their part to leave the world a better place than how they found it. Some people are more fortunate than others and have money to donate to their treasured causes, but some of us have to be more creative.

It’s not about monetary donations or how much you give; it’s all about the fact you decided to do something

.jpeg attached to the email. Announcements will appear within 10 days in The Tribune, The Herald or The Observer.

to better the world around you. My husband and I recently started fostering dogs, and that’s our small way of giving back to a problem that really hurts our hearts — stray and uncared for dogs in central Alabama. If we could, we’d take in all the dogs but we know that’s not possible. We’ve adopted four of our own from various shelters and rescues, and now we are fostering two from Black Dog Rescue in Alexander City. It may not seem like a lot when there’s a hundred dogs who need to be saved, but it’s our own small way of giving back. Find something small — or large — and just do what you can.

or a civic organization and really understand the problems your community

I’m a big proponent of being a part of the solution rather than the problem, and the only way to do that is get involved. It’s easy to run to Facebook and complain about that new business opening up that isn’t exactly what you wanted, but it’s not so easy to go to city council meetings or other public meetings to truly understand the accomplish ment of bringing a new business to town.

Faithful, loyal, firm, and true

As I conclude 28 years in the public school classroom, we are revisiting some columns that ran in the Tallassee Tribune over the years that pertained to this educational journey. The following column ran in October, 2018.

Friday night after the pregame ceremonies, I found myself drenched in sweat, slumped on a metal bench under the bleachers, nearly falling over on our illustrious editor, Carmen Rodgers.

She was still as excited as ever, camera in hand, as she prepared for another evening of covering local sports. Griffin Pritchard was there, too, scribbling in his notepad as he paced the sideline. However, there I was talking to Carmen – exhausted. Exhausted, but in the happiest and most beautiful way I can recall.

The week began with our marching band attending the Daleville Invitational Band Classic, hosted by Daleville High School. Their director, Mark Nichols, was once the band director here at Tallassee and is a former student of Linwood Erb.

The Pride of Tallassee scored straight superiors in every category, which was cause for celebration. Our students were good representatives of our school in every way. Robby Glasscock, our band director, and his assistant director Melanie Perry have worked very hard to get the students to this point, and their hard work paid off.

A few hours later, we were taking the entire music department – the directors, the coaches who drove us, and about 250 of our closest friends – to the Alabama National Fair in Montgomery.

We arrived at Garrett Coliseum around 8:30 a.m. Monday, and prepared to compete in the Invitational Choral Festival. The choral competition is coordinated by my former teacher, Mrs. Gene Davis, who served as the choral director at Robert E. Lee High School for 28 years.

There were 23 choirs in the festival, from schools all over Montgomery and the River Region as well as some from schools further away. Of the 23 schools, the top three are recognized with Alabama National Fair trophies at the conclusion of the contest.

My colleague Amanda Anderson and I were pleasantly surprised when Tallassee High School won two of the top three trophies, meaning our choirs were two of the highest-rated in the contest.

Ms. Anderson is the conductor of the Chamber Choir, which is a 20-member SATB (soprano, alto, tenor, bass) chorus consisting of juniors and seniors. Ms. Anderson and I co-direct the Concert Choir, which features approximately 100 SATB voices in grades 10-12.

Homecoming week rushed along as the students built floats, the gym was prepared with tarps and every chair in the school, and the class from 20 years ago was on campus getting ready for their moment in the sun.

Thursday night, my favorite part of Homecoming was made even more special as my daughter is a Senior this year. The Candlelight Ceremony and Bonfire were awesome, as usual.

Friday’s pep rally and parade were a warm 90-plus degrees. However, it was all made more enjoyable observing the camara -

derie and seeing my daughter as a member of the Homecoming Court.

Viewing these experiences through the eyes of a Senior on the Court was truly memorable for both of us. Miriam had the opportunity to ride in a Ford Thunderbird convertible contributed by Gene Lawrence, owner of Tallassee Super Foods. She was driven in the parade and to the football game by my father Chris, who is one of the managers at Super Foods. He looked as proud to be there as Miriam did. As we prepared to walk across that field at pregame, I pondered: in the course of 100 years of our school, if five girls were chosen to be on the Court each year, it would mean only 500 people in THS history have had the honor of doing what she got to do. It was also noted by another in attendance that only 100 would have the distinction of being named Queen. We all turned to face the American flag being raised by Boy Scouts Troop 59, and sang our National Anthem and Alma Mater while in formation with the band. How blessed we are in Tallassee to have held on to ceremonies such as these as other schools have abandoned their traditions! We marched off the field to “Loyalty,” into THS history. Exhausted, yes, but prouder than ever to be a Tallassee Tiger.

Michael Bird is a member of the music faculty at Faulkner University.

MICHAEL BIRD Columnist

includes Tallassee Police Chief Todd Buce, Investigator Chase Wilks, who was the case agent for the Tallassee Police Department and testified at trial. A special thanks to all the other officers who assisted in the investigation and trial.”

Assistant district attorney Kisha Abercrombie handled most of the prosecution during trial in Dadeville last week. Segrest did the second closing for the prosecution.

Third Judicial Circuit Court Judge Issac Wharton will sentence Dixon on July 26.

According to court records, Dixon previously pleaded guilty in 2016 to first-degree robbery and served two years in prison as part of the plea agreement.

MISSING

Continued from A1

She was lying in her bed in Macon, Georgia. Her mind raced, not letting her go to sleep.

“I was like ‘I don’t feel like this is getting enough attention,’” Hill said. “I don’t know why I’m so invested but I want to help. I asked the family if I could do a search and they said yes. Ever since then I have been very vocal for the family because I want them to get the closure and peace they deserve.”

Unhappy with the pace of law enforcement in the search for Thompson, Hill has stepped in.

“The Tallassee Police Department is not doing any -

cries for help almost got me,” Jackson told the Alabama Gazette in 2019. “My knees buckled, and I would have fallen had I not reached the lifeline that runs around the deck. After a couple of seconds, my training took over and I reached for a life ring with rope attached and threw it to a soldier on the port side of the ship. He failed to grab it, and I stood helplessly as I watched him slowly sink below the surface with his eyes still open looking at me.”

Moments later Jackson rescued another soldier with the life ring. Jackson and his shipmates saved nine from the water in the first three hours of the invasion of the French coast.

Just months earlier Jackson enlisted in the Navy. Then came eight weeks of boot camp where he was selected for duty on a submarine chaser and sent to Key West, FL, for six weeks for sonar school to learn to detect underwater vessels. Jackson was soon on his way to New York and the voyage across the Atlantic Ocean to England. Before he left, the American Red Cross issued him a comfort kit in a cloth bag with a drawstring containing a toothbrush, toothpaste, comb, razor blades and a Gideon Bible.

The night before the invasion Jackson’s sub chaser took up patrol in the English Channel. The assignment was to take a position on the starboard flank to lead a convoy of a double row of Landing Craft

thing,” Hill said. “I don’t feel that is right. If I can form my own team and investigate it myself, then I’m going to do that. I’ve been launching searches.”

Thompson’s vehicle was found in Macon County the day after he was reported missing to the Tallassee Police Department. A helicopter from the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency and a tracking canine team were used in the area around Sugar Road.

“They did search but they didn’t find anything from what I was told,” Hill said.

“The family feels like Tallassee didn’t do a search. I just want to go see what I can see. He’s out there somewhere. I want to check where the vehicle was.”

Tallassee police chief Todd

Infantry (LCI’s), the amphibious assault ships used to transport large numbers of infantry onto beaches.

Although Jackson was afraid, he had a feeling that he was going to make it back as he remembers recalling the Bible’s words.

“I will fear no evil for thou art with me,” Jackson said.

Jackson’ battle station’s assignment was to monitor the sonar and radar watching for German submarines, U-boats, alternating every half hour with another technician to ensure top efficiency.

Jackson’ service at Normandy did not stop there. Jackson’s sub chaser remained off the beaches of Normandy for 21 days. His vessel responded to Red Alert whenever German planes came at night to drop mines, which were the greatest danger for his ship. He could see the searchlights from the larger ships weaving back and forth across the dark sky, hear the 5” anti-aircraft shells exploding and see the streams of tracer bullets from the smaller guns climbing into the clouds.

Jackson spent three weeks patrolling the waters between England and France. He came home to New York before shipping out through Miami and the Panama Canal to Pearl Harbor. In route the second atomic bomb was dropped on Japan followed by its surrender When he heard the Japanese had surrendered, Jackson went down to his bunk and cried. The next assignment was to escort a double column of LST’s to Sasebo, Japan for 23 days. His ship experienced a typhoon and sailed into the Yellow Sea that

Buce said his department was part of the search around the vehicle, as was the Macon County Sheriff’s Office and other local police departments. They have followed the leads they have been given, but nothing has turned up. Hill said she got a lead from a family member but it hasn’t been shared with law enforcement. She conducted an “emergency search” Monday after work and after traveling from Georgia.

“I felt strong about it and went out there,” Hill said. “I was told to take cadaver dogs. I’m looking to see if I can find a clue, maybe clothing, maybe something that will indicate Mr. Thompson is out there. ” Hill has conducted multiple searches for Thompson.

CommunityCalendar

Neill and Sheralyn Belyeu. Cost is $5 per person and anyone can register by calling 334-567-5097 or the day of the event.

JUNE 13

Summerfest from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. June 22 at Tallassee City Hall.

ROLLER SKATE: The Tallassee Parks and Recreation Department is hosting roller skating at the Tallassee Recreation Center on Gilmer Drive. Elementary students can skate from noon to 4 p.m. There will be an open skate from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

was filled with mines of which many were destroyed by his ship. Jackson sailed to Shanghai, China and to Guam. Jackson returned home to Cuthbert, Georgia and was awarded numerous combat ribbons and medals. Jackson used his G.I. bill for college earning a bachelors of science degree in business education from North Georgia College. He chose to go into banking instead of education.

Jackson first came to First National Bank in Auburn, then banks in Florida and Georgia before coming to Peoples Bank in Carrville.

Jackson spent 37 years at Peoples Bank in east Tallassee and two and half years at the Bank of Tallassee.

He married Shirley Chamblis and they had seven daughters and two sons, 22 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren. After retirement he enjoyed time with his family, fishing and playing dominos while supporting Shirly’s endeavors.

Since World War II Jackson has seen and heard things making him think every generation should have its war and take part in it.

“That generation would more fully understand and better appreciate this great country in which we live and the freedoms that we enjoy,” Jackson said. “Better yet, each one would know that great feeling, that sense of pride that comes with knowing that you have literally laid your life, your most precious possession, on the line and done your part to keep this country great and to keep it free. I laid my life on the line for my country because I wanted to leave it a free society.”

She isn’t worried about informing law enforcement what she is doing. Hill just wants Thompson found.

“If I find something, I’m going to call whatever jurisdiction I’m in,” Hill said. “I have to call them. Whatever evidence and other stuff, that is not in my hands. I’m out of it. My main goal is to search and locate him.”

While not kin to the Thompsons, Hill grew up with some of the girls in the family.

“Before this, I haven’t seen or talked to them in years,” Hill said.

Hill has had her experiences with missing persons cases. She helped with searches of missing persons out of Lee and Macon counties. One was a cousin. Hill happened by the search on

the way to a doctor’s appointment. The remains found that day were her cousin’s.

A 2021 search was even closer to home. It was for Hill’s 16-year-old son.

“He went missing for about six hours,” Hill said. “That freaked me out. The Auburn Police Department stepped in and did what they were supposed to do for him.”

Hill is approaching the search for Thompson with confidence, wanting similar results she has had in the past — a peace of mind.

“It has been too long,” Hill said. “That is someone’s uncle, someone’s child. I don’t know the cause of what happened to Mr. Thompson, but it is not right. I feel like anyone deserves peace and closure. They deserve justice as well.”

contact Heather Baker at hbakerjj@aol. com.

PRESCHOOL STORYTIME: Preschool Storytime takes place at 10 a.m. every Friday at Wetumpka Public Library.

ECLECTIC TOWN COUNCIL

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

KINDERGARTEN BOOTCAMP: Wetumpka Elementary School is hosting a kindergarten bootcamp from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. June 13 at the Wetumpka Elementary School Activity Center. Children will learn about and explore the school with classmates, teachers and more. Children must be fully registered for school.

June 13-14

PLAY: The Wetumpka Depot Encore Players are presenting Mother Goose State Your Case June 13 at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. and June 14 at 6 p.m. Tickets are $5.

JUNE 15

KID FISHING: The Tallassee Parks and Recreation Department is partnering with the Alabama Department of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries to host hunter safety education and kid fishing from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, June 15 at the Lake Talisi Boat Ramp and Riverwalk. Everyone is asked to bring their own fishing gear and supplies.

JUNE 17-21

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL: Grace Baptist Church on Old Montgomery Road in Wetumpka is holding Vacation Bible School 6 to 8 p.m. June 17 - 21. Registration starts at 5:30 p.m. each night or by email at wetumpkagrace@gmail. com.

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL: Tallaweka Baptist Church in Tallassee is hosting Vacation Bible School from 9 a.m. to noon June 17 to 21 at its church at 1409 Gilmer Avenue. The Bible school is open to kindergarteners through sixth grade.

JUNE 22

SUMMERFEST: The Tallassee Chamber of Commerce is holding

JUNE 23

CONCERT: First Methodist Church Wetumpka is hosting gospel singer Ivan Parker in concert at 10 a.m. Sunday, June 23.

JUNE 24-29

THEATRE CAMP: The Stanhope

Elmore Mustang Players are hosting a theater camp for students in the Millbrook area from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. June 24-29 at Stanhope Elmore High School School and will close out with performances. The cost is $100.

INDEPENDENCE DAY

CELEBRATION: The City of Wetumpka and Main Street Wetumpka are hosting an Independence Day Celebration from 6 to 9 p.m. in downtown. The celebration will feature music, fireworks and free family fun.

SUNDAY, JULY 14

MEN’S CONFERENCE: Village Church of Wetumpka is hosting a men’s conference. The keynote speaker is Rick Burgess of Rick and Bubba.

JULY 15-19

THEATER CAMP: The Wetumpka Depot Players are hosting a Heroes and Villains theater camp for children ages 8 to 15 July 15 to 19. The cost is $225. To register email Kristy Meanor at kmeanor@wetumpkadepot.com.

ONGOING

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

NAACP MEETINGS: The Elmore County Branch No. 5026 of the NAACP meets at 6:30 p.m. every third Tuesday (executive committee) and every fourth Tuesday (full membership) at the Martin Luther King Center at 200 North Lancaster St. in Wetumpka. OPEN MIC: The Equality Performing Arts Center hosts an open mic jam session from 7 to 9 p.m. every second Friday of the month at 560 Highway 9 in Equality. There is no charge but donations are welcome as they keep the center running. Bring a snack or finger food to share during the intermission.

RED HILL COMMUNITY CLUB

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

MOUNT HEBRON CHURCH OF CHRIST: Come join us at 4530 Mt. Hebron Road in Eclectic. Our Sunday school begins at 9 a.m. followed by worship service at 10:30. There is also a Wednesday night Bible study at 7 p.m. For more information call Pastor Edwin Walker at 334-541-2025

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

CELEBRATE RECOVERY GRACE

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

Some Autauga prisoners shipped to Elmore as jail growth is explored

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

At least four Autauga County Metro Jail prisoners are now behind bars at the Elmore County Jail. But the situation only highlights the need for more jail space in Elmore County.

According to Elmore County Jail records, at least four male prisoners arrived at the Wetumpka facility Thursday afternoon after Autauga County sheriff Mark Harrell started to evacuate the downtown Prattville facility Thursday.

“I have a moral obligation for the safety, health and security of all individuals who come through the doors of the Autauga County Metro Jail, whether it’s my staff, law enforcement officers or inmates,” Harrell said in a post on social media. “...It will be up

to the [Autauga] County Commission to properly and adequately fix the issues to prevent health and safety issues before I, as the Sheriff of Autauga County, will place another individual in the jail.”

Shortly after the statement media outlets reported inmates in handcuffs being loaded onto buses in Prattville.

Elmore County sheriff Bill Franklin confirmed his jail was housing some prisoners from Autauga County.

“We got in touch with them and said we would like to help them, but we are limited in what we can do,” Franklin said.

“We did take a few of the males from them. We weren’t able to take any of the females. We are well over capacity for females.”

The Elmore County Jail has a capacity of 242 and first took prisoners

CLIFF WILLIAMS | TPI

A new Elmore County Jail is in the planning stages. The current jail was completed in 1995 and designed to house 242 prisoners. It frequently has more than 300. Plans are to build a facility on site to increase capacity to about 600 inmates.

after its construction was completed in July 1995. As of Friday afternoon, 307 individuals were incarcerated at the Elmore County Jail.

“We are well over capacity,” Franklin said Friday. “We are 65 over capacity at this moment.”

Lucky for Franklin the Elmore County Commission has been

Reeltown High School welcomes

By ABIGAIL MURPHY Multimedia Reporter

Former assistant principal and football coach Jamarlin “Shundell” Russaw is making his way from Central Coosa High School to Reeltown High School.

Russaw said it was a hard decision to leave Coosa and with that he will be leaving coaching behind as well. Transitioning to a full-time assistant principal, he said he knows Reeltown is going to be a positive opportunity to further develop in administration.

“I'm looking forward to being a part of their culture,” he said. “They also have great athletics. They just got a new gymnasium, weight rooms and it’s not just about athletics, but a part of being a culture under Mrs. Stockdale, the principal — working to help the school improve and just to be the best school that we could be.”

In this new role at Reeltown, he hopes he can set a positive example for the students on how to be a great educator, a great dad, a great person, like others have done for him. Russaw was first inspired to go into education, when his former high school coach mentored him and took him under his wing.

That was the start of his aspiration to become

new assistant principal

a coach, which he did for 15 years while being a physical education teacher primarily at Stephens Elementary. The principal at the time encouraged him to consider being an administrator.

He said it took a few tries before he was convinced to start looking for master’s programs. In Fall 2022, he received a master’s in Instructional Leadership from the University of West Alabama.

After being an assistant principal at Coosa for the past two years, Russaw realized that administration is where he really wants to be. He said he hopes to one day become a principal himself.

“I just got into education to basically help change lives and lead the young generation,” Russaw said. “Everybody

needs leadership, someone to show them the way. I like being a teacher. I like being an administrator. I like for kids to look up to me and follow my lead because I try my best to be a great example for my kids and for other people's kids.”

Russaw was born and raised in Alexander City — graduating from Benjamin Russell High School in 2002 before being awarded a baseball scholarship to Jackson State University and receiving a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education in 2008.

Russaw currently lives in Kellyton with his wife Felicia and their three sons Jamarlin, 11, Peyton, 10 and Jamison, 6. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with his family watching sports.

actively looking to the future. Legislation last year created two new circuit court judgeships in the 19th Judicial Circuit serving Elmore County. Between that and the Elmore County Jail already being over capacity almost all the time, the commission purchased 11 acres adjacent to the judicial com-

plex and Elmore County

DHR across from Julia Tutwiler Prison on U.S. Highway 231.

Franklin said conversations have been ongoing about building a new jail facility for Elmore County to accommodate growth of the county.

“We talked about building a new facility every few weeks, even

down to the placement of that facility and how many it will house,” Franklin said.

The new jail facility would be built in phases almost adjacent to the current facility. Doing so would allow movement of prisoners between the jail and courtrooms to remain similar.

The expected capacity is expected to be about 600 beds for prisoners. It is all planning for the future and the concerns of an overcrowded jail already three decades old.

“The commission is very receptive to our thoughts and ideas trying to look down the road towards the future,” Franklin said. “They are trying to get out in front of it now. I commend them for that. We have to position ourselves for the future and I think we’re doing that.”

Blue Ribbon Dairy provides fresh milk for surrounding areas

By ABIGAIL MURPHY Multimedia Reporter

With June being National Dairy Month, Blue Ribbon Dairy explained how it got started providing Grade A pasteurized cream-line milk in multiple counties.

Owner Michaela Sanders first opened Blue Ribbon back into 2017 to pick back up the dairy business her great grandfather started. The original farm closed in 2005 with her grandfather.

Growing up in the dairy business, Sanders knew she wanted to start the farm back up. Part of that was also making sure the farm could bottle their own milk.

The milk is now sold at multiple places spanning from Birmingham to Montgomery to Opelika to Millbrook. Blue Ribbon also makes flavored milks including chocolate, cookies n cream, mocha and orange dream. At the farm store, Blue Ribbon makes its own ice cream as well.

The Blue Ribbon Dairy cows spend

their days out in pastures and they do have a barn with fans for those hot summer days. Then the cows come in for milking at 2:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. each day, where on average each cow produces eight gallons of milk a day. Sanders said the quality of the milk also

County commission recognizes elder abuse awareness

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

The Elmore County Commission recognized June 15 as World Elder Abuse Day at its Monday meeting. The annual proclamation highlights the issues seniors face when caretakers and others take advantage of them physically, emotionally and financially. Elmore County Department of Human Resources director Michelle Wood told the commission incidents of elder abuse are being investigated more often. In 2023 DHR investigated 114 possible reports of elder abuse. It is up from 28 in 2013.

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Patient care tech through medical services is one of eight pathways students at Tallassee High can earn certifications.

Six are through Dr. Daniel Free’s agriscience program where students can earn credentials in aquaculture, aquaponics, home builders association, specialty crops, forestry, environmental science and beef quality management.

“It is something that is definitely underreported,” Wood said.

“We are very fortunate to have Dr. Free,” McNaughton said. “He is outstanding.”

This past year, 85.5% of tests taken for credentials by students in grades nine through 12 were passed.

“Students took 166 credential tests and passed 142,” McNaughton said.

“I’m pleased with that and it sets a record for highest passing percentage for us.”

During the school year, Southern Union

The commission posed for a photograph with Wood and her staff to mark the occasion.

The commission also recognized Airport Road Intermediate School fourth grade teacher Deborah Stringfellow for being named Alabama Teacher of the Year. Stringfellow will travel the state and country for the next

Community College provides English and history instructors to teach the dual enrollment classes.

Multiple records were set in dual enrollment by the Class of 2024 as well.

It’s the first class able to fully take advantage of a dual enrollment scholarship from Tallassee City Schools. It was created two years ago.

Juniors and seniors receive funding to cover one class per school year.

The majority of the dual enrollment courses are

year inspiring other teachers to succeed.

IN OTHER ACTION THE ELMORE COUNTY COMMISSION:

• Approved minutes of the May 28 meeting.

• Approved the memorandum of warrants for May 18 to May 31 in the amount of $1,501,870.32.

taught under Southern Union Community College. Some students take courses through other community colleges or the University of Alabama and Auburn University.

In the 2023-24 school year, 74 students completed 217 college level courses with a pass rate of 93% for college credit.

“Southern Union serves well over 1,000 students with dual enrollment and 93% is what they typically see with the success rate of students taking dual

• Set a public hearing for 5 P.m. July 22 for comments on the possible vacation of a portion of Brantley Road off of Rigsby Road for an unnamed road off Brantley Road.

• Awarded a surplus scrap metal bid to Robinson Recycle. The next meeting of the Elmore County Commission is scheduled for 5 p.m. June 24

enrollment classes across the board,” McNaughton said. “We are right there in the middle of that standard.”

The Class of 2024 had 34 students to participate in dual enrollment for two years. They completed 157 classes.

“That is an average of about 14 hours per student in dual enrollment,” McNaughton said. “We had 16 students with 18 plus hours of college credit when they left, one had 27 hours.”

McNaughton believes the school board scholarship is providing opportunities for more students to take advantage of dual enrollment. In fact, the program is growing and is on pace to set more records next year.

“At the moment we have 84 students for this fall, that number has increased over last year,” McNaughton said. “We are looking at 153 classes. I expect next year to be another record setting year.”

Creature Chronicles

SUBMITTED TPI

Jamarlin “Shundell” Russaw, top right, will soon be stepping in as Reeltown High School’s newest assistant principal.

No thanks

Greetings from the corner of Bridge and Bridge! I pray the day is going well for everyone reading this week’s column. The heat of summer is beginning top make its annual appearance.

Life in my household had been consumed with all things high school graduation as of late.

The festivities and activities of graduation for Wetumpka High students started April 21st and concluded (somewhat!) on May 21st. Our community was overrun by young people in caps and gowns for over a month.

Now the time for recognizing and celebrating their collective accomplishments moves towards the next chapter.

The time for moving on is upon us. What, exactly, are our high school graduates supposed to be moving on towards?

Fortunately, there is only one answer that gets to the heart of the matter of the question. Most high school seniors are 18 years old or soon to be 18 at the time of graduation. That age traditionally signified the beginnings of adulthood. High school graduates should all be moving toward accep-

tance and management of adult things.

For some, this means pursuing a college education. For some, it means pursuing some technical training for a particular vocation. For some, it means military service. For some it means finding a job and working one’s way up from there.

Apathy and non-engagement are not on anyone’s list of fulfilling the move towards adulthood.

Sure, graduating seniors are expected to take a break following graduation and enjoy down time with friends and family. At the same time, there is

never an expectation that those “lazy days” should become the norm.

Our family recently attended Camp War Eagle, which is family orientation to the first year of college at Auburn University. There was a great deal of information shared and a significant amount of encouragement for future success. All of the information centered around Auburn’s understanding of success in collegiate education.

That understanding has four basic components. Student success is a combination of academic performance, physical

Tallassee Churches

REV.

JONATHAN YARBORO Columnist

and spiritual well-being, enjoyment of life, and applicability to the workplace. Students at Auburn are expected to excel in all four areas. I would say the same basic philosophy is present in most places of higher learning.

The experience was a good one overall. As a parent of a rising college freshman, I greatly appreciate the fact that the university clearly laid out its expectations for incoming freshmen. Participation in the college experience is expected at all levels.

While all this was happening, I couldn’t help thinking about at least one elephant in the

room. The overwhelming majority of incoming college freshmen in our nation for the coming fall are also first-time registered voters. I remember a certain level of excitement among graduating seniors when I was that age forty years ago. I have yet to hear a single one of this year’s graduates express any excitement about being old enough to vote. I am not looking to blame anyone for this, but I am painfully aware of it as a present reality. I can understand their collective apathy, but I also know it will not serve anyone well. Can anything be done to change that?

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

Surrounding Area Churches

Dalton MiDDleton SportS eDitor dalton.middleton@thewetumpkaherald.com

Wrestling trio receives championship rings

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

Tallassee’s wrestling trio was given some hardware last week.

The Tigers’ championship winners of Ramon Lozada, Land Bell and Mason Nelson were all given championship rings after taking home first place in their weight classes

in the AHSAA Class 5A state championship in February.

“That’s always a great enjoyment for the coaches and the team,” coach John Mask said. “It helps reward them for their hard work and it’s something they’ll have for the rest of their lives. They can show their kids and their grandkids in the future.” All three had dominant

seasons on the mats for Tallassee, landing them on the All-County First Team for their championships. Lozada, who transferred from Wetumpka during the summer, was a multiyear state qualifier at both Wetumpka and Elmore County in his high school career.

TALLASSEE SEES GROWTH IN STATE

GAMES DUALS

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

The Tallassee wrestling team saw a successful weekend in Trussville.

Tallassee traveled and participated in a duals tournament held by the Alabama State Games. The tournament featured 12 duals teams, mostly Class 6A and 7A teams, while Tallassee (4A) was the smallest team in attendance.

Despite being the smallest, Tallassee turned in a good performance. Tallassee went 2-3 in duals play and finished seventh place overall. The Tigers fell to Tuscaloosa County, Mortimer Jordan and Mountain Brook and defeated Thompson and Opelika.

“Some of the finest schools in the state were there,” Tallassee coach John Mask said. “I thought the kids did well. We weren’t going up there to try and win the tournament. We wanted to get some practice in and get some matches in.”

Tallassee had a full lineup, but was without a handful of starters including defending state champions Land Bell and Mason Nelson. It’s difficult to field all the starters during a summer meet, especially on a Saturday afternoon. Mask saw many players out due to prior wrestling events, vacations, work and even the ACT test Saturday morning.

Tallassee’s Brady

SUBMITTED | TPI

Tallassee’s wrestling team went 2-3 at Hewitt-Trussville this weekend with wins over Thompson and Opelika. Tallassee finished 7th in the 12-team tournament.

The Tigers knew that would be the case, and they were happy to take whoever stepped on the bus that morning.

“We were able to get some good wrestling in,” Mask said. “We had a few starters and we had a couple of guys who hadn’t wrestled much before. Not having everyone afforded the opportunity to a lot of guys who are going to contribute next year to get some work in.”

One of the best performances of the weekend came from rising freshman Brady Adams.

Wrestling in the 144pound class, Adams turned in a 4-1 weekend. In the first match of the day, against eventual champion

Tuscaloosa County, Tallassee was defeated 71-6.

Adams won the only match of the dual as he pinned Fransisco Tomas at the 2:57 mark.

He earned a technical fall over opponents from Opelika and Mortimer Jordan then a 12-4 major decision over a wrestler from Thompson.

His only loss came from Mountain Brook’s Christopher Brown, a first-round pin.

“Brady is a rare wrestler because he’s been starting on and off since he was a seventh grader,” Mask said. “He went to state last year and he has wrestled a lot. That was his

See DUALS, Page B2

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

Baseball players around the county and beyond were recognized for their seasons Saturday.

The Alabama Sports Writers Association announced its All-State team, and 10 local baseball stars were listed in their respective classifications.

Edgewood Academy had four players selected, Elmore County had two players selected, and Wetumpka, Holtville, Tallassee and Reeltown each had one player make the list.

Tallassee’s Brue Milner earned one of the top awards in the list. He was named to Class 5A’s First Team as a designated hitter. The freshman catcher was instrumental in the Tigers’ third round playoff visit, and Gulf Shores fans are still having nightmares about the home run hitter.

Milner finished his freshman year with a .368 batting average with 32 hits, 48 RBIs and a county-best 72 home runs.

Reeltown senior Blake Smith was also named First Team DH in Class 2A after he hit .400 with 23 stolen bases and only 10 strikeouts for the Rebels.

Two Edgewood players were named First Team on the AISA list. Sophomore Brock Whitt was listed as an infielder and Drew Allison was listed as a DH. Whitt hit .392 with 40 hits, 15 doubles, 2 triples, 4 home runs and a team-best 36 RBIs. Allison, a recent Lawson State commit, hit .358 with 24 extra base hits and 21 stolen bases.

Teammates Parker Shaw (utility) and Jackson Hudson (DH) were both named Second Team. Hudson hit .427 while Shaw hit .418 to help lead Edgewood to a runner-up finish in Class AA this season. In Class 6A, Wetumpka

third baseman Jacob Smith, a CACC signee, was named to the Honorable Mention list as a DH. Smith hit .345 with a .470 on base percentage in 113 at bats. He ended the season with 39 hits, 20 of which were doubles. He had nine more doubles than the next closest Indian. He added two triples, one home run and 36 RBIs.

He walked 21 times, was hit-by-pitch 10 times and scored a team-best 43 runs.

The Elmore County Player of the Year and Southern Miss signee, Drey Barrett, was a Second Team infielder in Class 5A. Barrett hit .398 with 43 hits, 11 doubles, 1 triple, 4 home runs, 30 walks, 33 RBIs and 36 runs scored. On the mound, he finished the year with a 5-3 record with a 1.83 earned run average with 81 strikeouts in 49 ⅔ innings.

Across the county, Elmore County’s Shea Darnell was named Second Team as a DH. He was the county’s best hitter this season with a .522 batting average with 48 total hits and zero strikeouts. He showcased gap-to-gap power with 10 doubles and 4 triples.

When he was on the bases, he stole 23 and scored 36 runs.

Teammate Jaden Eason was named to the Honorable Mention list as a pitcher. He finished the year with a 5-1 record with a 1.33 ERA. He struck out 57 batters in 42 innings of work and tossed four complete games.

CLASS 7A

PLAYER OF THE YEAR

Braden Booth, Bob Jones

PITCHER OF THE YEAR

Braden Booth, Bob Jones

HITTER OF THE YEAR

Zack Johnson, Bob Jones

COACH OF THE YEAR

Johnny Johnson, James Clemens

SUBMITTED TPI

Tallassee wrestling senior Ramon Lozada, left, and juniors Land Bell, center, and Mason Nelson pose with their championship rings. All three wrestlers won the AHSAA Class 5A state championship in their respective weight classes this season.

See TRIO, Page B2

UGA schedules AU for Homecoming

The details of the 2024 college football schedule have begun to be unveiled. We now know the times for each of Auburn’s first three home games and on which network they will appear. One little nugget pertaining to the schedule has caused a bit of a stir and ruffled more than a few feathers.

Auburn will travel to Athens, Georgia on Oct. 5 to take on the Bulldogs in one of the oldest, longest running and celebrated rivalries in the history of college football. Of course, this game used to have a permanent home at the end of the regular season leading up to the Iron Bowl. The games against Auburn’s two fiercest opponents (Georgia & Alabama) were purposely staggered so that whenever one game was at home, the other was on the road. However, when the SEC expanded to add Texas A&M and Missouri, there were a few scheduling abnormalities that forced Georgia to make back-to-back trips to Jordan-Hare Stadium in 2012 and 2013.

As a result, the games against UGA and Alabama were now both on the road or at home. That makes for an extremely difficult slate every other year and makes the season-ticket package much less desirable every other year. The Tigers eventually petitioned the SEC to move the game against the Bulldogs to earlier in the season. Now, flash forward to the present day and Auburn’s game in Athens on Oct. 5. Georgia has decided to make the game against the Tigers their Homecoming game.

Traditionally, homecoming games are reserved for also-ran opponents that present a guaranteed victory. It’s not completely universal, but being someone’s homecoming opponent is, more often than not, a gross lack of respect. Quite a few Auburn players and fans have already sounded off with their displeasure. Just for the record, AU scheduled Missouri as their Homecoming opponent in 2022. Auburn somehow found a way to win that game or, more accurately, Missouri found a way to lose it 17-14. I had to go all the way back to 1991 to find the last time an SEC team entered Jordan-Hare on Homecoming. That was Mississippi State and the Tigers lost that game 24-17. It’s actually not that unusual for Georgia. They scheduled Missouri for Homecoming in 2023 and Vanderbilt in 2022.

Did Kirby Smart the Bulldog brain trust (such as it is) do this on purpose? Are they going out of their way to embarrass and kick the Tigers while they’re down? Maybe. Probably. So what?

Quite frankly, Auburn doesn’t deserve a lot of respect right now. The Tigers have forced their fans to endure four straight lousy seasons and haven’t beaten Georgia in Athens since 2005. Even worse, they’ve only beaten them a grand total of three times overall since 2005. If Auburn players are upset and feel like they should be given more respect, GOOD! I hope they use it as motivation against the Bulldogs.

Here’s a truism young people, and especially young athletes, have a difficult time understanding. True respect is not given. It’s earned. If you want to make Georgia regret their scheduling choice, go out and beat their brains in. By the way, Missouri scheduled Auburn as their 2024 Homecoming game as well. I certainly hope the players have had enough. I know I have.

Andy Graham is the co-host of Auburn Blitz and his column appears here weekly.

Central board selects heath harmon as next AHSAA executive director

administrator.

But the move to Tallassee finally paid off for the 120-pound star. He finished the year with an undefeated record at 43-0 and pinned 21 of the 43 opponents he faced. That dominance continued to the end as he pinned his state champi-

DUALS

Continued from B1

By DAVID HOLTSFORD AHSAA

Oxford High School principal Heath Harmon was approved Thursday by the AHSAA Central Board of Control to become the sixth Executive Director of the Alabama High School Athletic Association. The board approved the hiring of Harmon at a special Central Board meeting Thursday. The announcement was made by current AHSAA Central Board president Mike Welsh at a press conference held at the AHSAA office.

Harmon, 49, will be taking over his new role as Executive Director officially in early July. Alvin Briggs, who has served as Executive Director since 2021, announced his plans to retire earlier this spring.

“(Harmon) is a lifelong resident of Alabama and has previously served as a high school English and History teacher, assistant principal, and coach of multiple sports,” Welsh said.

“Mr. Harmon was head football coach at four of our member schools prior to entering the field of educational administration. He has proven to be an effective leader, and we are confident of his ability, excited about his enthusiasm, and look forward to working with him to lead our association into the future.”

Harmon, who graduated from Munford High School in Talladega County, becomes just the sixth person to hold this position full time in AHSAA history. Cliff Harper was first, hired by the CBOC in 1948 and served until 1966. Herman L. “Bubba” Scott served in the position from 1966-1991. Dan Washburn then served from

onship opponent in the second round. Bell also went undefeated on the season. Bell is a two-time state champion wrestler in both the 132-pound and 144pound weight classes. As a junior this season, he moved up to 144 and finished a perfect 57-0 en route to his second title. He was the Elmore County Wrestler of the Year for his efforts, and

experience showing this weekend. He trains a lot and hasn’t missed a day

he enters his senior season having won 77-consecutive high school matches. Nelson was one of the lightest members of the All-County team as he wrestled at both 106 and 113 pounds this season. Near the end of the season, he settled into the 106-pound class and won 15 of his last 16 matches there. He finished the season with a 49-5 over-

of weights or practice this summer.”

While Adams dominated his opponents, a lot of other younger wrestlers from 7th to 9th grade also stepped in and showed out. Barker Davis went 2-1 as he pinned an opponent, was pinned once and

1991-2007. Steve Savarese replaced Washburn in 2007 and remained in the position for 15 years until retiring in 2021. Alvin Briggs, who announced his plans to retire effective September 1, has served as executive director since 2021.

Sellers Stough of Birmingham served in a parttime position as executive secretary-treasurer from 1921 to 1948.

“I am truly blessed to be standing here,” Harmon said. “Without the support of my wife Holley and my two children, I wouldn’t be able to do the work that I do.”

Harmon said he was appreciative of the search process by the Central Board and was thankful for the opportunity to have a chance to apply for the executive director position.

“I have had the opportunity to work with the AHSAA as a coach and administrator. It is one of the best organizations in the country,” Harmon said. “The AHSAA’s long-standing tradition of serving member schools and support of education-based athletics is recognized locally as well as nationally. We are proud of our past and preparing for our future.”

Once in his role, Harmon wants to make connections with the schools and athletes that populate them across the state immediately.

“I look forward to working with the Central Board of Control, the AHSAA staff, our member school principals, athletic directors, coaches, and officials from across the state,” Harmon said. “Together we will make sure the student-athletes in Alabama have a great experience participating in education-based athletics.”

all record. In the state tournament, he had two wins via technical fall and another from a pin.

“It really brings a smile to your face when you see how hard those kids have worked and see them get a ring,” Mask said. “This is years in the making for them. They’ve been wrestling since they were kids and they’ve always wanted to be a state champion.”

earned a forfeit win.

Harmon said he especially was grateful to the previous executive directors who took the time to be present at the announcement.

“I especially appreciate their support as we transition (to this new challenge in our lives),” Harmon said.

All five previous executive directors had a major impact nationally with Scott and Washburn serving as president of the National Federation of High School Associations Board of Directors. Savarese was elected president-elect in 2021 but chose to retire instead. Harper (1987), Scott (1990) and Washburn (2011) have been inducted into the National High School Sports Hall of Fame. Savarese will be eligible to be selected beginning this fall.

Briggs was the first person selected for executive director who was already working on the AHSAA executive staff, and he was the first black executive director in the AHSAA’s 104-year history. Washburn, Savarese and Briggs were all on the front row for Harmon’s announcement. Also attending the press conference was Susan Scott Carothers, granddaughter of Mr. Scott and host of AHSAA TV Weekly.

Harmon is a school leader known for his strong character and faith. He has been an educator for 27 years – serving as a teacher, coach, athletic director, instructional partner, and currently as principal at Oxford.

Those who know him best describe Harmon and his wife Holley, a graduate of Gaston High School in Etowah County, as believers in faith, family and community. Holley too is an educator and school

Harmon holds a B.S. in Secondary Education, English and history from Jacksonville State University, a M.A. in Secondary Education, English and Educational Leadership from the University of Alabama and an Educational Specialist degree from the University of Alabama. He is also a graduate of the 2023 Alabama Superintendents Leadership Academy.

Much like the AHSAA’s previous executive directors, Harmon is a staunch believer in the values learned from education-based athletics. In May of 2023, he opened his school’s doors to the Athens High School softball team which was competing in the AHSAA State softball championships at nearby Choccolocco Park on the night of their seniors’ graduation.

The seniors received their diplomas that night in a ceremony held at Oxford High School Sports Arena with Briggs on hand and with Athens High School athletic director Linda Moore to present the diplomas as their families watched with pride.

Harmon and his wife have two children, daughter Halaya, and son Hudson. Both graduated from Oxford High School. Their daughter graduated from Auburn University in 2023, and their son is currently a student at Auburn.

Welsh praised the Central Board’s efforts in the search for the AHSAA’s next leader.

“I especially thank our senior board member, Mr. Luke Hallmark, for chairing the search committee and working tirelessly to develop and implement the search process,” Welsh said.

When the rings were presented to Lozada, Bell and Nelson, nearly the entire Tallassee team was there in support. That caught Mask by surprise. The rings came on the Friday of graduation day, and the kids weren’t in school. But within 30 minutes of texting the team that the rings were in and telling them to come get them, everyone was there to see how they looked.

Dylan Price won two matches via forfeit and a 17-0 technical fall, and AJ Henry, a football player, showed up and went 1-1 in the 215 class with a win over Mountain Brook.

“I was tickled with all of them,”

“The other teammates were very supportive and said they’re getting one next year,” Mask said.

“They’re going to work hard and maybe next year we’ll be able to have more than three. Mask and the team will have a formal presentation and ring ceremony in the fall at one of the football games.

Mask said. “I could tell their growth. We had seven seniors graduate and we want to have guys ready to step in. I think these guys are. They’re waiting and if there’s a lineup spot for them, they’ll step in. That’s going to be positive for the program.”

Heath Harmon and his wife, Holley, are introduced to media and others at Thursday’s AHSAA press conference. Harmon was named the AHSAA’s sixth Executive Director.

ANDY GRAHAM Columnist

FIRST-TEAM ALL-STATE

P: Braden Booth, Bob

Jones, Sr.

P: Charlie Cassingham, Grissom, Jr.

P: Dylan Lewkutz, Hewitt-Trussville, Sr.

P: Cam Norton, CentralPhenix City, So.

C: Zack Johnson, Bob Jones, Jr.

IF: Henry Allen, Auburn, Sr.

IF: Landon Beaver, Central-Phenix City, Sr.

IF: Steele Hall, HewittTrussville, So.

IF: Brandon McCraine, Smiths Station, Sr.

OF: Rock Gearhart, Fairhope, Jr.

OF: Carson Loosier, James Clemens, Sr.

OF: Brett Moseley, Hewitt-Trussville, Sr.

UTL: Mason Blasche, Hoover, Sr.

UTL: D’Marion Terrell, Thompson, Sr.

DH: Connor Gatwood, Baker, Sr.

DH: Tanner Waldrop, Auburn, Sr.

SECOND-TEAM ALL-STATE

P: Chase Cartron, Huntsville, Sr.

P: Bryant Durbin, Baker, Sr.

P: Christian Helmers, Hewitt-Trussville, Jr.

P: Brady Richardson, Enterprise, Jr.

C: Blake Westry, Fairhope, Jr.

IF: Peryn Bland, Thompson, Sr.

IF: Jacob Pearl, Bob Jones, Sr.

IF: Ethan Santos, Baker, Sr.

IF: Bryson Sheppard, Smiths Station, Jr.

OF: Cayden Boutwell, Enterprise, Jr.

OF: Nolan Phillips, Fairhope, Sr.

OF: Emory Yohn, Central-Phenix City, Jr.

UTL: John Paul Head, Vestavia Hills, Sr.

UTL: Hunter Wippert, Central-Phenix City, Sr.

DH: Ethan Crook, Thompson, Sr.

DH: Fuller Musgrove, Mary Montgomery, Jr.

HONORABLE MENTION

P: Bryson Morman, Oak Mountain, Sr.; Cody Strickhausen, Mary Montgomery, Jr.

C: Mikey Vanderheyden, Enterprise, Jr.

IF: Gresham Baker, Bob Jones, Sr.; Sam Brown, Central-Phenix City, Jr.

OF: Steven Cavaco, Huntsville, Jr.

UTL: Chase Lackey, Chelsea, Jr.; Easton Nelms, Florence, Jr.

DH: Cam Simpson, Hewitt-Trussville, Jr.

CLASS 6A

PLAYER OF THE YEAR

Jackson Henderson, Hillcrest-Tuscaloosa

PITCHER OF THE YEAR

Jackson Henderson, Hillcrest-Tuscaloosa

HITTER OF THE YEAR

JoJo Williamson, Hartselle

COACH OF THE YEAR

Mark Garner, HillcrestTuscaloosa

FIRST-TEAM ALL-STATE

P: Caleb Barnett, Mountain Brook, Jr.

P: Grayson Hays, Athens, Sr.

P: Jackson Henderson, Hillcrest-Tuscaloosa, Sr.

P: Jace Meadows, Hartselle, Jr.

C: Jack Holley, Spanish Fort, Sr.

IF: Caiden Combs, Gardendale, Jr.

IF: Carter Johnson, Oxford, Sr.

IF: Quincy Walters, Baldwin Co., Sr.

IF: JoJo Williamson, Hartselle, Sr.

OF: Santae McWilliams, Saraland, Jr.

OF: John Robicheaux, Mountain Brook, Sr.

UTL: Nick Richardson, Oxford, Jr.

UTL: Jake Souders, Briarwood, Sr.

DH: Cade Miles, Hartselle, Sr.

DH: Eli Woody, Baldwin Co., Sr.

SECOND-TEAM ALL-STATE

P: Kenneth Diddell, Mountain Brook, Sr.

P: Eli Driskell, FaithMobile, Sr.

P: Jack Ross, Homewood, Jr.

P: Jaxen Schuler, Baldwin Co., Sr.

C: Milo Obradovich, Northridge, Sr.

IF: Drew Britton, Pike Road, Sr.

IF: Taurus Ceasar, Faith-Mobile, Sr.

IF: Josh Henson, Buckhorn, Jr.

IF: Nemo Hixon, Spanish Fort, Jr.

OF: Caleb Chesser, Spanish Fort, Jr.

OF: Jackson Jones, Muscle Shoals, Sr.

OF: Cody Markham, Pike Road, Sr.

UTL: James Graphos, Mountain Brook, Sr.

UTL: Evan Hilliard, Saraland, Sr.

DH: Camron Laffitte, Saraland, Sr.

DH: Tucker Rickman, Mortimer Jordan, Sr.

HONORABLE MENTION

P: Gavin Griner, Oxford, Jr.; Ethan Kick, Spanish Fort, Sr.

C: Forrest Heacock, Oxford, Sr.

IF: Holden Dean, Russell Co., Jr.; Bradin Dupper, Decatur, Sr. OF: Caiden Dumas, Athens, Sr.; Trey Greenwell, Decatur, Jr.

UTL: John Henry Winstead, Spanish Fort, Sr.

DH: Baker Davis, Hueytown, Jr.; Jacob Smith, Wetumpka, Sr.

CLASS 5A

PLAYER OF THE YEAR

Jackson Sanders, Valley

PITCHER OF THE YEAR

Andrew Allen, Alexandria

HITTER OF THE YEAR

John Stowers, St. Paul’s

COACH OF THE YEAR

Zac Welch, Alexandria

FIRST-TEAM ALL-STATE

P: Andrew Allen, Alexandria, Sr.

P: Connor Gehr, Gulf Shores, Sr. P: Tripp Patterson, Alexandria, Sr. P: Tyler Pierce, Boaz, Jr.

C: John Stowers, St. Paul’s, So.

IF: Brandt Cummings, Russellville, Sr.

IF: Carson Gillilan, Sardis, Sr.

IF: Evan Snow, Alexandria, Sr.

IF: Joseph Stephens, Gulf Shores, Sr. OF: Damien Gatson, Mobile Christian, Jr. OF: Gannon Pharr, Shelby Co., Sr. OF: Wade Shelley, Headland, Jr.

UTL: Blaze Gerhart, Sardis, Sr.

UTL: Jackson Sanders, Valley, Sr. DH: Neyland Baker, Russellville, Jr.

DH: Brue Milner, Tallassee, Fr.

SECOND-TEAM ALL-STATE

P: Cj Chambley, Valley, Sr.

P: Conner Lowery, Sardis, Sr.

P: Carter Samuelson, Springville, Jr.

P: Trey Scott, Headland, Sr.

C: Aiden Brunner, Alexandria, Sr.

IF: Drey Barrett, Holtville, Sr.

IF: Edward McLeod, St. Paul’s, Jr.

IF: Bryce Rivers, Mobile Christian, So.

IF: Wyatt Shelley, Headland, So.

OF: Ian Cartwright, Alexandria, Sr.

OF: Keaton Johns, Ardmore, Jr.

Gadsden, Sr.

UTL: Samuel Henegar, Alexandria, Sr.

UTL: Cayden Johns, Russellville, Sr.

DH: Landon Cherry, Moody, Jr.

DH: Shea Darnell, Elmore Co., Jr.

HONORABLE MENTION

P: Jaden Eason, Elmore Co., Jr.

C: Caden Norwood, Lawrence Co., Jr.

IF: Daniel Askew, Russellville, Sr.; Gavin Weinshenker, Mobile Christian, Sr.

OF: Landon Carroll, Sardis, Sr.

UTL: Parker Frost, Lawrence Co., Jr.; Conner Nelson, Leeds, Jr.

DH: Chris Fitts, East Limestone, So.; Grant Martinez, Springville, So.

CLASS 4A

PLAYER OF THE YEAR

Christian Chatterton, Brooks

PITCHER OF THE YEAR

Eli Cannon, Corner

HITTER OF THE YEAR

Carson Smith, North Jackson

COACH OF THE YEAR

Caleb Hoyle, Corner

FIRST-TEAM ALL-STATE

P: Eli Cannon, Corner, Sr.

P: Jackson Lange, Westminster-Huntsville, Sr.

P: Macain McMillan, Bibb Co., Jr.

P: Garrett Reid, Deshler, So.

C: Wes Walker, Priceville, Sr.

IF: Christian Chatterton, Brooks, Sr.

IF: Brendan Conner, Corner, Sr.

IF: Sean Lapinskes, Westminster-Huntsville,

Sr.

IF: Carson Smith, North Jackson, Sr.

OF: Jace Boyd, Corner, Sr.

OF: Lawson Collier, Westminster-Huntsville, Sr.

OF: Eric Hines, American Christian, Jr.

UTL: Brodie Dunlap, Corner, Sr.

UTL: Drew Layfield, Ashville, Sr.

DH: Fleming Hall, Trinity, Jr.

DH: Nick Jernagin, North Jackson, Sr.

SECOND-TEAM ALL-STATE

P: Colman Gann, Priceville, Jr.

P: Colton Mitchell, American Christian, Sr.

P: Dawson Shoults, Bibb Co., Sr.

P: Tucker West, Orange Beach, Sr.

C: Dylan Palmer, Ashville, So.

IF: Matthew Cash, Bibb Co., Sr.

IF: Jeb Crane, Cherokee Co., Sr.

IF: Xaye Lemon, Jacksonville, Jr.

IF: Slade St. Clair, Etowah, Sr.

OF: Parker Adams, Andalusia, Sr.

OF: Rylan Gober, Orange Beach, Sr.

OF: Cash Hayes, Etowah, Jr.

UTL: Cole Dean, Bayside Academy, Jr.

UTL: Kade Smith, Dale Co., Jr.

DH: Max Hill, Corner, Sr.

DH: Mason Holloway, Hamilton, Fr.

HONORABLE MENTION

P: Walker McClinton, Trinity, Sr.

C: Jaylen Crocker, American Christian, So.; Jace Turner, Cherokee Co., Sr.

IF: Brady Rascoll, Trinity, Sr.; Memphis Scott, Madison Co., Jr.

OF: Jay Fuller, Oak Grove, Jr.; Lathan Stephens, Munford, Jr.

UTL: Hayden Barber, Orange Beach, Sr.; Braxton Griffin, West Limestone, Sr.

CLASS 3A

PLAYER OF THE YEAR

Miles Edwards, Lauderdale Co.

PITCHER OF THE YEAR

Charles Morris, Thomasville

HITTER OF THE YEAR

Tabor Offord, St. James

COACH OF THE YEAR

Clint Anderson, Thomasville

FIRST-TEAM ALL-STATE

P: Charles Morris, Thomasville, Sr.

P: Dylan Rainey, Westbrook Christian, Jr.

P: Trent Smith, New Brockton, Sr.

P: Skylar Tucker, Lauderdale Co., Jr.

C: Grady Patterson, Opp, So.

IF: Matthew Ashberry, Straughn, So.

IF: Diego Bryant, Thomasville, Jr.

IF: Brady Jones, Oakman, So.

IF: McClane Mohon, Piedmont, Sr.

OF: Nelson Hall, Opp, Sr.

OF: Bo Mitchell, Decatur Heritage, Jr.

OF: Gavin Nichols, Thomasville, Sr.

UTL: Miles Edwards, Lauderdale Co., Sr.

UTL: Tabor Offord, St. James, Jr.

DH: Rick McBride, Montgomery Academy, Sr.

DH: Ethan Williams, Plainview, Sr.

SECOND-TEAM ALL-STATE

P: Austin Anderson, Plainview, Sr.

P: Austin Baines, Gordo, Sr.

P: Colby Ballard, Opp, Sr.

P: Noah White, Plainview, Sr.

C: Cam Dyer, Houston Academy, Sr.

IF: Clay Dolan, Colbert Co., Sr.

IF: Payton Green, New Brockton, Sr.

IF: Glavine Lamberth, Hokes Bluff, Jr.

IF: Bryant Sparkman, Decatur Heritage, Jr.

OF: Brady Carden, Westbrook Christian, So.

OF: Landon Fike, Gordo, Sr.

OF: Chapel Stickler, Providence Christian, Sr.

UTL: Cole Austin, Piedmont, 8th

UTL: Porter Dykes, Providence Christian, Sr.

DH: Brayden McCaleb, Winfield, Jr.

DH: Brantley Stocks, Fayette Co., Sr.

HONORABLE MENTION

P: Brodie Homesley, Piedmont, Jr.; Paxton Tarver, Decatur Heritage, Jr.

C: Jake Hale, Vinemont, Jr.

IF: Eli Stone, W.S. Neal, So.; CJ Sullivan, Providence Christian, Sr.

OF: Beau Bryant, Thomasville, Sr.; Luke Martin, Oakman, Sr.

UTL: Adam Boyd, Houston Academy, Sr.; Trey Rutledge, Plainview, Jr.

DH: Brayson Hayes, Hokes Bluff, Sr.; Braden Haymon, Plainview, Jr.

CLASS 2A

PLAYER OF THE YEAR

Myles Tyler, Ariton

PITCHER OF THE YEAR

Aiden Poe, Vincent

HITTER OF THE YEAR

Gabe Glover, Wicksburg

COACH OF THE YEAR

Donovan Hand, Red Bay

FIRST-TEAM ALL-STATE

P: Drew Colon, Wicksburg, Jr.

P: Austin Evans, Ariton, Jr.

P: Gavin Lang, Collinsville, Fr.

P: Aiden Poe, Vincent, Jr.

C: John Lott, Pike

Liberal Arts, Sr.

IF: Alex Cook, Lindsay Lane, Sr.

IF: Mason McAteer, Collinsville, Fr.

IF: Blake Sewell, Donoho, Sr.

OF: Jay Dobbs, Mars Hill Bible, Sr.

OF: Gabe Glover, Wicksburg, Jr.

OF: Myles Tyler, Ariton, Sr.

UTL: Blake Dobbins, Fyffe, Jr.

UTL: Jack Malone, Bayshore Christian, Jr.

DH: Ellis Hamiter, Tuscaloosa Academy, Jr.

DH: Blake Smith, Reeltown, Sr.

SECOND-TEAM ALL-STATE

P: Brooks Campbell, Mars Hill Bible, Fr.

P: Luke Holdbrook, Whitesburg Christian, Jr.

P: Ty Reynolds, Red Bay, Jr.

P: Ian Senn, Ariton, Sr.

C: Caleb Shew, Pleasant Valley, Sr.

IF: Aubrey Baker, Fyffe, So.

IF: Holt Bentley, Pleasant Valley, Sr.

IF: Wes Braisted, Zion Chapel, Sr.

IF: Casen Fields, Vincent, Jr.

OF: Will Bush, G.W. Long, Sr.

OF: Eli Farris, Red Bay, Sr.

OF: Jaxon Poag, Mars Hill Bible, Sr.

UTL: Luke Barron, Pike Liberal Arts, Jr.

UTL: Preston Lancaster, Tuscaloosa Academy, Jr.

DH: Kaden Moore, North Sand Mountain, Sr.

DH: Josh Winfrey, Cold Springs, Sr.

HONORABLE MENTION

P: Kaleb Robinson, Whitesburg Christian, Jr.

C: Lane Jones, Lindsay Lane, So.

IF: Ian Schnurer, Sheffield, Sr.

OF: Easton Dean, Wicksburg, Sr.

UTL: Cam Isbell, Mars

Hill Bible, Jr.

DH: Jace Golden, West End-Walnut Grove, Sr.; Parker Huff, Hatton, Sr.

CLASS 1A

PLAYER OF THE YEAR

Landon Shumate, Sumiton Christian

PITCHER OF THE YEAR

Landon Shumate, Sumiton Christian

HITTER OF THE YEAR

Dalton Jackson, Florala

COACH OF THE YEAR

Tyler Zessin, Florala

FIRST-TEAM ALL-STATE

P: Aydan Beard, Hackleburg, Sr.

P: Landon Shumate, Sumiton Christian, Sr.

P: Cale Tittle, Lynn, Sr.

P: Cody Walsh, Florala, Sr.

C: Camdyn Moore, Appalachian, Sr.

IF: David Etheridge, Sweet Water, Sr.

IF: Cole Gargus, Appalachian, Sr.

IF: Brayden Huebner, Leroy, Sr.

IF: Dalton Jackson, Florala, Jr.

OF: Tanner Bartlett, Appalachian, Sr.

OF: Austin Hubbard, Sumiton Christian, So. OF: Thomas Williamson, Brantley, Sr.

UTL: Luke Murrell, Athens Bible, Fr.

UTL: Jackson Waite, Millry, Jr.

DH: Ryan Talley, Lynn, Sr.

DH: Caden Welford, Millry, So.

SECOND-TEAM ALL-STATE

P: Colton Glass, Sumiton Christian, 8th

P: Jayden Parks, Brantley, Jr.

P: Blaise Vickery, Hackleburg, Jr.

P: Easton Walsh, Florala, So.

C: Landon Jones, Billingsley, Jr.

IF: Will King, Belgreen, Sr.

IF: Ethan Johnson, Athens Bible, Sr.

IF: Stone Talley, Addison, So.

OF: Payton Averette, Sweet Water, Sr. OF: Jon Harper Kilcrease, Brantley, Jr.

OF: Jaquan Reeder, Hackleburg, Jr.

UTL: Kaden Pack, Cedar Bluff, Sr.

UTL: Chapel Pope, Spring Garden, Sr.

DH: John Michael Basinger, Covenant Christian, Sr.

DH: Keegan Giles, Leroy, So.

HONORABLE MENTION

P: Kiah Lake, Addison, So.; Max Wright, South Lamar, So.

C: Ethan Courtney, Ragland, Sr.; Weston Todd, Athens Bible, 8th

IF: Ross Hudson, Hackleburg, So.; Bradlee Padgett, Maplesville, Sr. OF: Isaac Bishop, Cedar Bluff, Jr.; Rusty McDonald, Sumiton Christian, Jr.

UTL: Connor Bates, Spring Garden, Jr.

DH: Brayden Atcheson, Maplesville, Sr.

AISA PLAYER OF THE YEAR Mason McCraine, Glenwood

PITCHER OF THE YEAR Tyler Sykes, Glenwood

HITTER OF THE YEAR Jay Lindsey, Patrician

COACH OF THE YEAR Taylor Clemmons, Clarke Prep

FIRST-TEAM ALL-STATE

P: Tyler Sykes, Glenwood, Jr.

P: Colton Sampson, Lakeside, Sr.

P: Garrett West, LeeScott, Sr.

P: Jake Cummings, Lee-Scott, Sr.

C: William Etheridge, Patrician, Sr.

IF: Brock Whitt, Edgewood, So.

IF: Mason McCraine, Glenwood, Jr.

IF: Gunner Justice, Macon-East, Sr.

IF: Jay Lindsey, Patrician, Sr.

OF: Trent Popee, Bessemer Academy, Sr.

OF: J.D. Burns, LeeScott, Sr.

OF: Quamarian Pernell, Morgan Academy, Jr.

UTL: Taylor Morrow, Lakeside, Sr.

UTL: Ashton Yelder, Lowndes Academy, Jr.

DH: Drew Allison, Edgewood, Sr.

DH: Barrett Spaeth, Macon-East, Sr.

SECOND-TEAM ALL-STATE

P: Jackson Carmichael, Bessemer Academy, So.

P: Hudson Campbell, Glenwood, So.

P: Harrison Short, LeeScott, Jr.

P: Brayden Hennigan, Southern Academy, So.

C: Owen McNeal, Fort Dale Academy, Sr.

IF: Carter Judah, Glenwood, So.

IF: Levi Pinder, Glenwood, Jr.

IF: Sam Jackson, LeeScott, Jr.

IF: Dominic Dougan, Lowndes Academy, Sr. OF: Landon Hand, Chambers Academy, So. OF: Thaddeus McKinney, Macon-East, Jr.

OF: Carson Coody, Patrician, Sr.

UTL: Parker Shaw, Edgewood, Jr.

UTL: Parker McNeal, Fort Dale Academy, Sr.

DH: Jackson Hudson, Edgewood, Jr.

DH: Cooper Clemmons, Clarke Prep, Jr.

HONORABLE MENTION P: None.

C: Luke Bell, Escambia Academy, Sr.; Eli Whorton, Chambers Academy, So.

IF: Cade Henderson, Morgan Academy, Sr.; Hayden Johnston, Southern Academy, Sr.

OF: Matthew Mize, Patrician, Jr.

UTL: Peyton Yerta, Chambers Academy, So.

OF: Peyton Steele, Hartselle, Sr.

DH: Eli Johnson, Springwood, Sr. BASEBALL

OF: Cayden McMichael, Southside-

DH: Jamarion Robinson, Escambia Co., So.

IF: Lawson Leger, Ariton, Sr.

IF: Parker Townsend, Sweet Water, Sr.

& Classi eds

TALLASSEE MUNICIPAL GAS SYSTEM

WHAT TO DO IF YOU SMELL GAS

That distinctive odor is the harmless chemical we add to natural gas so you can detect even the smallest amount that might escape. It smells bad... but that’s good! Natural gas has no odor on its own. Everyone should be able to recognize our built-in system safety signal. If you ever detect faint whiffs of this odor, INVESTIGATE. If possible, “follow your nose” to the source. It may be only a pilot light that’s out, or a burner valve partially turned on. Something easily and safely corrected. If the source of the gas cannot be located or the odor persists, call Tallassee City Hall, 283-4298, during normal hours (7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.) Monday through Friday. At night or on weekends or for any emergency reporting of gas line breaks, call Tallassee Police Department 283-6586. Please give adequate directions as to the location of the leak. Sarah Hill, Mayor

SUDOKU

Public Notices

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Public Notices

Public Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE

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Public Notices

ANY EASEMENTS, ENCUMBRANCES, AND EXCEPTIONS REFLECTED IN THE MORTGAGE AND THOSE CONTAINED IN THE RECORDS OF THE OFFICE OF THE JUDGE OF PROBATE OF THE COUNTY WHERE THE ABOVE-DESCRIBED PROPERTY IS SITUATED. THIS PROPERTY WILL BE SOLD WITHOUT WARRANTY OR RECOURSE, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, AS TO TITLE, USE OR ENJOYMENT, AND WILL BE SOLD SUBJECT TO THE RIGHT OF REDEMPTION OF ALL PARTIES ENTITLED THERETO. Alabama law gives some persons who have an interest in property the right to redeem the property under certain circumstances. Programs may also exist that help persons avoid or delay the foreclosure process. An attorney should be consult-

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Sealed bids will be received by The Armory Commission of Alabama, at the State Military Department Building, 1720 Cong. W.L. Dickinson Drive, (P.O. Box 3711), Montgomery, Alabama, until 2:00 p.m., Central Time, Thursday, July 11, 2024, for Statewide (Central Region) Energy Controls Modernization, Various Locations, AL (IFB# AC-24-B-0040-S), at which time they will be publicly opened and read in the Second Floor Classroom (Room 201), of the State Military Department, 1720 Cong. W.L. Dickinson Drive, Montgomery, Alabama. (Power of Attorney is required) payable to The Armory Commission of Alabama in an amount of the amount of the bid, but in no event more than $10,000.00 per project, must accompany the bidder’s proposal. Completed Disclosure Statements are preferred to accompany the proposal. Performance and Payment bonds will be required at the signing of the contract. All entities must be registered to do business in the State of Alabama. All bidders bidding in must be licensed under the provisions of Title 34, Chapter 8, open to public inspection at the State Military Department, 1720 Cong. W.L. Dickinson Drive, State Property and Disbursing Point of contact: Larry Crawley, samuel.l.crawley.nfg@army.mil. be obtained from the Architects,ris, amorris@ahoarch.com), set, which will be refunded in full upon return of documents in good condition within ten (10) calendar days of the bid date. Questions should be addressed, in writing, to Amanda Morris at AHO Architects, LLC, amorris@ahoarch.com no later than 2:00 p.m. CT, Tuesday July 2, 2024. Only those bidders who havements” from AHO Architects, LLC, will be included on the holders” for Addenda or other project information during the bidding period. Any prospecplan holders” must notify, in writing, AHO Architects, LLC of their intent to bid the project by 2:00 p.m., CDT, Tuesday July 2, 2024. A Pre-Bid Conference will be conducted at 10:00 a.m., Thursday, June 27, 2024, at the Second Floor Classroom (Room 201), of the State Military Department, 1720 Cong. W.L. Dickinson Drive, Montgomery, Alabama. All bidders are strongly encouraged to attend. Any errors or omissions made as a result of not attending will not be grounds for additional compensation. J. BURTON ROWELL Acting State Property and DisTallassee Tribune:

AC-24-B-0040-S PUBLIC NOTICE PUBLIC NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE

Default having been made in the payment of the indebtedness secured by that certain Mortgage executed by ALDEN K. SMITH in favor of FIRST COMMUNITY BANK OF CENTRAL ALABAMA, on May 26, 2016, said mortgage recorded the Judge of Probate of Tallapoosa County, Alabama, as Document Number 307032 (the “Mortgage”), and, pursuant to the laws of the State of Alabama, the undersigned FIRST COMMUNITY BANK OF CENTRAL ALABAMA, under and by virtue of the power of sale provision and other terms contained in said Mortgage, elects to declare the entire indebtedness secured by said Mortgage due and payable, and will sell at public outcry to the highest bidder, for cash, in front of the main entrance of the Courthouse of Tallapoosa County, Alabama, at 125 North Broadnax Street, Dadeville, Alabama 36853, during the legal hours of sale on June 26, 2024, all of its right, title, and interest in and to the following described real estate, situated in Tallapoosa County, Alabama, to-wit: Parcel 1: A portion of Lots 3 & 4 of Woodall Subdivision, as re-

of 160.73

North

Eest a distance of 26.25

to a

thence South 85

nail in

41

30 sec West a

of 161.02 feet to the Point of Beginning. Parcel 2: A portion of Lot 3 of Woodall Subdivision, as recorded in Deed Book 33, Page 589 Probate in Tallapoosa County, Alabama, more particularly described as follows: Commence at the concrete post purported to be the center of Section 20, T18N, R22E, Tallapoosa County, Alabama; thence South 01 deg 41 min 53 sec East a distance of 525.63 feet to a railroad spike in a driveway, on the East Right of Way of Derry Street (40’ ROW); thence along said Right of Way of said road, South 00 deg 38 min 01 sec West a distance of 189.65 feet to a 1/2” rebar capped Martin-CA-563-LS, and the Point of Beginning; thence leaving said Right of Way of said road, South 89 deg 50 min 55 sec East a distance of 162.66 feet to a 1/2” rebar (Martin); thence South 00 deg 00 min 03 sec East a distance of 15.00 feet to a 3/4” pipe; thence North 89 deg 50 min 55 sec West a distance of 162.83 feet to a 1/2” rebar capped Martin CA-563-LS, on the East Right of Way of said Derry Street; thence along said Right of Way of said road, North 00 deg 38 min 01 sec East a distance of 15.00 feet to the point of beginning. Said Parcel containing 0.06 acres more or less and lying in the NW 1/4, of the SE 1/4, of Section 20, T18N, R22E, Tallapoosa County, Alabama. Said foreclosure sale and conveyance incident thereto are subject to the legal rights of any existing federal tax liens, mortgages, special assessments, easements, restrictions, and reservations appearing of record. THIS PROPERTY WILL BE SOLD ON AN “AS IS, WHERE IS” BASIS, SUBJECT TO

Elmore County names Dismukes new baseball coach

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

Elmore County

didn’t have to look far for its baseball coach.

Michael Dismukes, who has been the skipper of Wetumpka’s varsity program since 2017, has been named the new varsity coach of the Elmore County program.

The Elmore County Board of Education approved the hire Tuesday night.

“It’s going to be a big change,” Dismukes said. “I’m excited. It’s an opportunity that I think is best for me and my family. Wetumpka has been really great and I’m grateful for what they’ve allowed me to do there. It’s humbling to be a part of that program and it was fun and it was a great eight years.”

Dismukes is joining an Elmore County program that has been on the rise the last decade.

After winning just 10 games combined in 2015 and 2016, the Panthers have had a winning record every single season outside of 2018.

During that span, Elmore County has gone 125-64 and reached the 19-win mark in each of the last five seasons outside of the COVID-19 short -

ened 2020 season. The Panthers have especially taken a step

in the right direction the last two seasons as they won the area championship in 2023 for the first time since 2005, and made backto-back playoff appearances.

Not only is Dismukes joining a program that knows winning, he’s joining a program that will see a brand new facility be built. Elmore County is currently in the works of turning its baseball field into a turf field.

The current plan is to install synthetic turf on the baseball, softball and football fields. To go with the baseball field, a new terraced seating area, expanded concrete paving and an entrance plaza is also currently planned.

Construction is expected to be done before the 2025 baseball season.

“Anytime you get new stuff, it brings new energy and a new excitement to the program,” Dismukes said.

“That’s one thing that will help. I haven’t seen the plans or the end results on paper yet, but hearing about

Crash

it and listening, knowing what is going to happen is very exciting for the school and the program.”

Elmore County also returns the majority of its baseball team in 2025. The Panthers return six starters including All-State members Shea Darnell and Jaden Eason, both of which will be seniors next season.

Joining Darnell and Eason as returning starters are Shelton Darnell, Austin Davis, Gage Davis and Hayden Jones.

At the plate, the six players combined for 176 hits, 5 home runs, 45 doubles and 109 RBIs. On the mound, they had a 10-4 record led by Eason’s 5-1 record and Jones’ 3-1 record.

“I haven’t seen them play and haven’t been around them much, but around here you follow every team from afar,” Dismukes said. “They’ve definitely been very competitive and played with some energy and played with passion. It really stuck out to me as a new

opportunity and I’m blessed to be asked to be a part of it.” Dismukes is coming off a Wetumpka baseball season during which the Indians went 24-16 and reached the third round of the Class 6A playoffs for the first time in 32 seasons. Dismukes was named the Elmore County Coach of the Year for the Indians’ efforts following the year. While he is excited to get started with his new squad, he is certainly going to miss his Wetumpka family.

“One thing about Wetumpka is that year in and year out, the players bought in,” Dismukes said. “They came to work every day and they did what we asked them to do. The results speak for themselves. There are great players who have come through there and there are great players there now. It’s bittersweet because Wetumpka is dear to my heart. It’s just a decision that I think is best for me. I’m going to miss them.”

near Kowaliga Bridge claims 1 life

STAFF REPORT

TPI Staff

A multi-vehicle crash that occurred at approximately 2:28 p.m. Monday has claimed the life of an Eclectic woman.

According to a press release from Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, Tina M. McDonald, 54, was critically injured when the 2016 Nissan Versa she was driving was struck in the rear by the 1999 Lincoln Continental driven by Margaret L. Liles, 40, of Montgomery. After the initial collision, the Versa that McDonald was driving struck a guardrail. The Continental that Liles was driving then collided head-on with the 2015 Lexus RX 350 driven by

Tammy S. Adams, 51, of Dadeville. McDonald was transported to the Russell Medical in Alexander City, where she later succumbed to injuries and was pronounced deceased, according to the release. Liles and a 1-yearold passenger in the Continental were both injured and transported for medical treatment. Adams and a passenger in the RX 350, Catherine C. Adams, 77, of Montgomery, were also injured and transported to Russell Medical for treatment.

The crash occurred on Alabama 63 near the 15 mile marker, approximately five miles north of Eclectic, in Elmore County. Nothing further is available as troopers with the ALEA’s Highway Patrol Division continue to investigate.

FILE TPI

Michael Dismukes has been named the new baseball coach at Elmore County. Dismukes has been the coach at Wetumpka since the 2017 season. He was named the Elmore County Coach of the Year this season.