11-17-2021 Tallassee Tribune

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THIS WEEK’S OBITUARIES, PAGE A2

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November 17, 2021

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VOL. 123, NO. 46

Document reveals more about allegations in Tallassee

By CLIFF WILLIAMS Staff Writer Details about allegations of misconduct and wronging are listed in the resolution passed unanimously by the Tallassee City Council last week.

The same resolution seeking a state investigation into the allegations states a number of issues but lists no names — only positions within the city. The resolution lists eight separate allegations, some of which in-

clude multiple positions within the city. The resolution states allegations have been made against Tallassee Mayor John Hammock, former Tallassee building inspector Andy Coker, Tallassee police chief Matthew Higgins, Tallassee city clerk Whitney Pitchford, accounts payable/payroll clerk Kayla Robinson and mayor’s assistant Wendy Clayton.

Tallassee Mayor Pro Tem Bill Godwin said at Tuesday’s council meeting certain members of the council have

tried to investigate the allegations.

“While the Tallassee City Council has investigated and taken appropriate and necessary action regarding several referenced allegations or wrongdoings, there still remains allegations of misconduct and wrongdoings that have not been resolved,” Godwin said.

Godwin didn’t read the allegations CLIFF WILLIAMS | THE TRIBUNE at Tuesday’s meeting but they were Tallassee Mayor Pro Team Bill Godwin, left and councilmember Fred Randall Hughey speak before a meeting of the Tallassee See DOCUMENT, Page A3 City Council Tuesday.

Hotel to come down

By CLIFF WILLIAMS Staff Writer The fate of Hotel Talisi is known — it’s coming down sooner rather than later.

After more than a decade of work following multiple fires, the Tallassee City Council decided at its last meeting the city will take the building down.

“We talked in the finance committee meeting,” mayor pro tem Bill Godwin said. “We are at the point now we think this property needs to come down. In fact, that is not a correct statement — it needed to come down years ago.”

See HOTEL, Page A3

BACK IN TIME CLIFF WILLIAMS | THE TRIBUNE

CLIFF WILLIAMS | THE TRIBUNE

Portions of the back of wall of the Hotel Talisi were removed but with basically no movement the Tallassee City Council has declared the building a nuisance and could have it demolished.

Reenactors were dressed in period clothing and were carrying period props at the Battles for the Armory Civil War Reenactment this past Friday. Two different battles were recreated surrounding the defense of the Tallassee Armory. Spectators watched on as actors showed what the battle was like.

Another season for the city pool?

By CLIFF WILLIAMS Staff Writer Last summer Tallassee city leaders said the city pool was losing 40,000 gallons of water or more per month as well as the chemicals in too. City leaders had all but decided to close the

pool and the adjacent pool house due to lack of funding.

But at last week’s Tallassee City council meeting a last ditch effort to save the pool, at least temporarily, was approved. Citizens have been able to take advantage of the pool in the past but if the work is successful,

The city pool has been in operation since 1954, but its future is in question.

Only the Tallassee Tiger Sharks will be allowed access if the city’s parks and recreation staff can seal the pool and the pool’s pumps run.

only the Tallassee Recreation Swim Team will be able to use it.

“We are trying to get the pool serviceable so that the swim team has a place to practice,” councilmember Bill Godwin

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See POOL, Page A3

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Page A2 • Wednesday, November 17, 2021

Obituaries THOMAS C. INGRAM Thomas C. Ingram, 85, of Eclectic, passed away November 12, 2021. He was born July 5, 1936. Funeral service will be 12 noon, Wednesday, November 17, 2021 at Prospect Baptist Church with Bro. David Jones officiating. Serving as pall bearers will be Warren Colley, Roland Freeman, Jim Adams, Johnny Adams, Greg Teel and Charles Chambers. Burial will follow in Prospect Cemetery. He is preceded in death by his parents, Gaddis and Gertie Ingram; wife of 64 years, Wanda K. Ingram; brother, Frazier Ingram and sister, Hazel Whitman. He is survived by sons, Johnny Ingram and Chris (Wanda) Ingram; brother, Robert Ingram; and sisters, Barbara Ingram Baldwin and Shirley Ingram Jones. Thomas worked for the Department of Transportation for 43 years.

After retiring, he was a consultant for KBR Engineering Firm and also a member of CEWSA water works board. He was a member of Prospect Baptist Church for over 80 years and served as a deacon for many years. He loved his church and his community and never hesitated to help anyone in need. He never met a stranger and loved everyone he met. His greatest love was his wife and children as his family was very important to him. His hobbies were taking care of his cows, hunting and fishing.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to Ivy Creek Hospice, the staff of The Apothecary, Dr. Vincent Law and staff and special caregiver, Hazel Chapman. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Prospect Baptist Church Cemetery Fund.

Online condolences at www.linvillememorial.com.

Linville Memorial Funeral Home and Crematory Eclectic, Alabama MARSHALL LEE HATCHETT JR. Marshall Lee Hatchett, Jr., 66, of Tallassee, passed away November 12, 2021. He was born November 23, 1954. A memorial service is scheduled for 2 pm, Sunday, November 21, 2021 at East Tallassee United Methodist Church with Rev. Jay Woodall officiating. Visitation with the family will begin at 1 pm at the church. He is preceded in death by his parents, Marshall Lee Hatchett, Sr. and Louise Rhodes Hatchett. He is survived by his wife of 41 years, Nyoka Hatchett; sons, Joshua Hatchett and Matthew Hatchett; granddaughter, Hanna Grace Hatchett; brother, Thomas Hatchett; sisters, Bobbie Andrews and June Weaver (Ricky); his beloved fur baby, Daisy; and a large extended family, church family and work family. Marshall was a graduate of Holtville High School, class of 73. He worked at Rheem Manufacturing over 40 years, retired in 2016. He is well known for his unflappable nature, dry sense of humor and his love of fishing and Alabama football. Expressions of sympathy may be memorial contributions to East Tallassee United Methodist Church. Online condolences at www.linvillememorial.com.

Linville Memorial Funeral Home and Crematory Eclectic, Alabama

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The Tallassee Tribune

VETERANS DAY

CLIFF WILLIAMS | THE TRIBUNE

First Presbyterian Church of Tallassee honored area veterans including Past John Eidsmoe with a luncheon for Veterans Day Thursday. Eidsmoe served as a chaplain.

Police Reports TALLASSEE POLICE DEPARTMENT NOV. 15

• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Jordan Avenue.

NOV. 14

• Gunfire was reported on Herd Street.

• A noise complaint was reported on Lakeshore Avenue.

• A prowler was reported on North Ann Avenue.

• Gunfire was reported on Herd Street.

• Gunfire was reported on Third Street.

• Suspicious activity was reported on First Avenue.

• Assistance was given to medics on First Avenue.

• Animal control was requested on Notasulga Road.

• Assistance was given to medics on Dorman Avenue.

• A civil disturbance was reported on Powers Avenue.

• A vehicle accident was reported on Riverside Avenue.

• Suspicious activity was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• A civil disturbance was reported on Powers Avenue.

• A white male was arrested on Barnett Boulevard.

• Criminal mischief was reported on Ashurst Avenue.

• An animal complaint was reported on Freeman Avenue.

• Criminal mischief was reported on Burt Mill Road.

• An animal bite was reported on Little Road.

NOV. 13

• Harassment was report-

ed on Gilmer Avenue.

• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Gilmer Avenue • A civil disturbance was reported on Darnell Road.

• A juvenile complaint was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• An abandoned vehicle was reported on Lower Tuskegee Road.

• A noise complaint was reported on Powers Avenue.

• Reckless driving was reported on Riverside Avenue.

•A domestic dispute was reported on North Johnson Street.

• Reckless driving was reported on Freeman Avenue.

• Suspicious activity was reported on North McKenzie Street.

• Criminal mischief was reported on Jordan Avenue.

• Harassing communications was reported on Second Avenue.

• A disorderly person was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• A disorderly person was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

NOV. 12

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

• A traffic accident with injury was reported on Weldon Road.

• A juvenile complaint was reported on Florence Street.

• Reckless endangerment was reported on Cherry Street.

• Reckless endangerment was reported on First Avenue.

• A noise complaint was reported Quail Run Drive.

• An animal complaint

was reported on West Patton Street.

• A white male was arrested on Barnett Boulevard.

• A Black female was arrested on Freeman Avenue.

NOV. 11

• A domestic dispute was reported on Second Avenue.

• Harassment was reported on John Street.

• Suspicious activity was reported on Outer Drive.

• Found property was reported on Outer Drive.

• A traffic accident with no injuries was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• An animal complaint was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• Debris was reported in the roadway on Riverside Drive.

• Menacing was reported on Third Street.

NOV. 10

• Animal control was requested on Friendship Road.

• Forgery was reported on Upper River Road.

• Animal control was requested on West Patton Street.

• A stolen vehicle was reported on Second Avenue.

• Animal control was requested on Sylvan Lane.

• A white male was arrested on Gilmer Avenue.

NOV. 9

• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• A Black female was arrested on Freeman Avenue.

• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• Harassment was reported on Notasulga Road.

• A white male was arrested on Barnett Boulevard.

• Debris was reported in the roadway on EB Payne Sr. Drive.

NOV. 8

• A Black female was arrested on Gilmer Avenue.

• An assault was reported on Barnett Boulevard.

• Trespassing was reported on Monroe Street.

• An assault was reported on Freeman Avenue.

• Burglary was reported on Monroe Street.

• An assault was reported on Freeman Avenue.

• A disorderly white female was arrested on Ashurst Bar Road.

• A child custody dispute was reported on Freeman Avenue.

• Assistance was given to the Tallassee Fire Department on Third Street.

• Theft of services was reported on Cliff Street.

• Debris in the roadway was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• A white female was arrested on Rushing Circle.

• An animal complaint was reported on Riverside Avenue.

• Animal control was requested on Macedonia Road.

• An abandoned vehicle was reported on Rifle Range Road.

• A suspicious subject was reported on Notasulga Road.

WETUMPKA POLICE DEPARTMENT NOV. 7

• A missing person was reported on Rivercrest Circle.

NOV. 5

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

OCT. 30

• Harassment was reported in Autumnwood Village.

The Tallassee Tribune

www.TallasseeTribune.com

CLIFF WILLIAMS | THE TRIBUNE

Portions of the back of wall of the Hotel Talisi were removed but with basically no movement the Tallassee City Council has declared the building a nuisance and could have it demolished.

HOTEL

Continued from B1

The Hotel is owned by Wylie Troupe, who appealed the city’s decision to condemn the property to the state court system. A judge ruled the city could condemn and demolish the building. Troupe never filed an appeal to the Alabama Civil Court of Appeals.

The question is who will own the property after the hotel’s demolition.

“We are asking our attorney Mr. [John] Smith to speak with the owner’s attorney to see if he would be willing to donate this

property to the city,” Godwin said. “That way once it comes down we would be free to do something with the property. If not, we would demolish the property and put a lien on this property. We would hopefully get our money back if and when the property sells.”

If Troupe gave the property to the city, Godwin said the city would be willing to give Troupe a tax write off up to legal amounts.

But Troupe doesn’t have much time to decide between the options of maintaining ownership of the property after the Hotel comes down or it belong-

DOCUMENT Continued from A1

listed in the resolution available as a public record Wednesday.

• Harassment or harassing communications by the “Mayor of Tallassee, the former building inspector for the City of Tallassee and the Tallassee Police Chief” directed at City of Tallassee employees and officials.

• “The requirement of the Mayor of Tallassee or its former building inspector that employees of the City of Tallassee work on or participate in business or projects that were not part of the operations of the City of Tallassee during regular work hours of the City.”

• “Alteration of a medical record by the Tallassee City Clerk.”

• “Alteration of purchase orders by the City Clerk and the City’s Ac-

POOL

Continued from B1

said. “They do a tremendous job; they represent Tallassee well.”

The pool was built in 1954 by Mr. Vernon Mills and eventually given to the city. It’s age presents difficulties in its maintenance.

The council approved spending up to $10,000 on just the pool to make it usable.

“As you know this pool is like, 70 years old,” Godwin said. “It really isn’t feasible to put a lot of money into it. We are going to try to get the pool functional with the understanding that they need to have a ‘Plan B.’ If the pumps stop or anything

ing to the city.

“We hope this would be favorable to him,” Godwin said. “We want to stipulate that we only want 10 days. It has been 12 years we have been dragging this thing on. Ten days for an answer yes or no, no extension.”

The council hasn’t disclosed a budget for taking the hotel down. The council has already received one quote for its demolition but hasn’t made it public as it seeks further quotes.

“We are still getting bids on demolition,” Godwin said. “We are still going forward. At the next meeting we will do a budget amendment to make sure

counts Payable/Payroll Clerk.

• “Purchase of equipment, goods and services by the Mayor without the approval of the Tallassee City Council to include but not limited to (1) the purchase of a motor vehicle; (2) expenses related to the Mayor’s campaign for the Alabama Public Service Commission; (3) payment to a business owned or controlled by the former building inspector for tree and shrubbery cutting and debris removal; and (4) seeking and receiving reimbursement from the City of Tallassee for certain expenses unrelated to City business operations.

• “Attempts by the Mayor’s assistant to interfere in or impede the investigation of complaints against the Mayor.”

• “Purchase of certain supplies and goods at the City’s expense by the City Clerk and the City’s Accounts

else major within the pool itself and we have to go into big dollars we just can’t do it.”

The work will be completed by Tallassee Department of Recreation

the funds are there in the budget and the proper line item and we will commence with demolition.”

Godwin said the city can’t restore the hotel with it owned by Troupe and the city doesn’t have the funds to restore it if it were given to the city, so the only option is demolition.

“It’s only fair to the existing businesses [downtown] who have had to put up with bricks falling and different things such as roaches, rats and fleas, you name it, running around their building, it’s only fair to the new people coming up with new businesses,” Godwin said. “We don’t have a choice.”

Payable/Payroll Clerk without approval of the Mayor or other appropriate City official.

• “Misuse of leave time and inappropriate accrual of leave time by the City Clerk and the City’s Accounts Payable/Payroll Clerk.”

The resolution asks for the matters to be investigated by the appropriate law enforcement agency of the State of Alabama.

Tallassee City Council members have said in council meetings the city is without a building inspector. Coker is still listed on the city’s website as building inspector. The city currently has listed a job opening for building inspector.

Godwin said he had no further comment than what was said at Tuesday’s meeting. The Tribune has again attempted to contact Hammock. Godwin said Hammock was out of town at last week’s meeting.

staff. The work will include stripping and cleaning the pool, attempting to seal the cracks, painting and resealing the pool.

Godwin said the work would not include any of

■■ ■■ Community 9iospita{

the buildings such as the pool house and this work may not be successful.

“We hope it will get them through the next season but we just don’t know,” Godwin said.

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98 Years Ago: Tallassee schools break away from Elmore and Tallapoosa Dr. Charles Bunyan Smith was one of the most renowned educators in Alabama history.

Born in Geneva County in 1891, he attended Troy State Teachers College for his undergraduate degree before earning a master’s degree at Peabody College and then a doctorate from Columbia University.

He taught in Ramer at Montgomery County and was a principal in New Market before becoming the first superintendent of the new Tallassee City Schools system in 1923.

As he wrote in his autobiography, the long train ride to interview with Tallassee Mills for the newly consolidated city school system was nearly a lot longer, because the ticket agent at the train depot had written Dr. Smith’s destination as “Tallahassee.”

“I am sure I harbored some prejudice about a cotton mill town,” the self-described liberal wrote, adding “the year before, the high school had been left off the accredited list because of poor laboratory and library facilities. I sensed no broad vision for the educational renaissance of the future,” with Dr. Smith adding that the only interest of the Mills at that time was to prepare employees for the demands of the company. In time, however, Smith’s battles with the Mill would prove fruitful and they became educational advocates, as well.

“Although the going in this unique town was rough and my mistakes

MICHAEL BIRD Columnist were numerous, the move was most fortunate for me,” he wrote later. Indeed: Dr. Smith married Miss Annie Pearl Newell of Troy, who was a faculty member at Tallassee from 1924 until 1937. Dr. Smith hired many other Troy graduates to round out the faculty of the Tallassee School.

He became close friends with other progressive thinkers of his era, such as Grover C. Hall, the Pulitzer Prize-winning editor of the Montgomery Advertiser. While Hall is remembered for his 1920s editorials denouncing the Ku Klux Klan, Smith was also writing for the editorial page at the time as he and Hall were members of a “vigorous intellectual group in Montgomery” called the Unity Club, which promoted Civil Rights causes during a period when it was extremely dangerous to do so.

Grover Hall and C.B. Smith’s friendship lasted beyond the Unity Club period, and the Unity Club persevered in Montgomery until the mid-1950s.

Dr. Smith remained at Tallassee and shepherded our system through rebuilding after a devastating fire destroyed the 1916 school. Dr.

Smith found the best in the business to design the new school - in fact, the new THS was to emulate the appearance of Montgomery’s Sidney Lanier High School, known as the number-one school in the country at that time for its academic reputation.

The Tallassee High School that opened an astounding one year and two days after the fire looked like the original Lanier, which is now known as Baldwin Middle Magnet.

Lanier High School had been in that building from 1910-1928. The new THS set to open in 2022 will also resemble the appearance of the original Sidney Lanier High School.

Dr. Smith was there the day our school opened in November, 1929 and stayed with Tallassee City Schools until 1935, when he took a job at the State Department of Education.

Before long, he was offered the opportunity to become the president of his alma mater, Troy State Teachers College. He held this position from 1937-1961. During this era, master’s degrees began to be offered, and the school’s name changed to Troy State College.

Today, Dr. Smith’s name lives on at Troy University. C.B. Smith Hall houses the school’s auditorium and has a music wing as well as an English wing.

Tallassee City Schools would not be where it is today without the forward thinking and steady leadership of this great man.

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Giving is part of Thanksgiving

I

t’s called “cognitive dissonance” when our thought process is different from our life choices. For example, we know greasy cheeseburgers aren’t good for us, but we still enjoy them. And we know we need to exercise but won’t get out of the easy chair! Another example is our generosity.

“The Christian Post” released a study on Nov. 1 about the giving habits of Christians. According to the report, a majority of evangelicals believe tithing (giving ten percent of one’s income) is biblical, but about 13 percent practice tithing. Furthermore, about half of evangelicals donate less than one percent of their income annually.

Tithing was part of the law in the Old Testament. Though we’re hard-pressed to find it in the New Testament, we do find another concept: “grace giving.” That is, because of God’s life-changing love for me, I respond with gratitude.

I give not because of the law, but because I’m compelled by love. I think most believers know this is true.

Thus, cognitive dissonance. We know the truth, but we don’t prac-

MICHAEL J. BROOKS Columnist tice it. Perhaps we convince ourselves we don’t have enough to give, or the student loans and other bills are overpowering, or we promise that when we get an increase in salary we’ll do better.

Another finding in this survey is there’s “relatively little difference in average generosity levels between an evangelical in a household earning $50,000 and in one earning $150,000.”

This belies the assertion that people give more when they have more. Jesus said, “He that is faithful in the least is faithful also in the much” (Luke 16:10). If we’re not generous in our current life situation, how could we expect God to bless us with additional wealth?

The survey found one more interesting fact; namely, evangelicals who attend church regularly give

more to God’s work. This makes sense because it is in the church that we talk about giving as an act of worship, point to the ministry needs of our communities and have means of receiving and spending money for ministries and missions.

We had a pastor when I was a teen-ager who announced in the pulpit that he studied the giving records of the members. This is certainly inappropriate since giving is a confidential matter. He dug himself deeper when he said, “And some of you don’t pay your share of the light bill!” The pastor created resentment, of course.

We don’t give to God’s work to be seen and heralded by others, even the pastor. We give to God’s work from a heart of love in response to his love that changed our lives, and with the conviction that our money is well-invested when we spend it to help others.

Reflections is a weekly devotional column written by Michael J. Brooks, pastor of the Siluria Baptist Church in Alabaster, Ala. The church’s website is siluriabaptist. com.

Talks

The Tallassee Tribune

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Questions from the audience

I

receive a lot of questions in the form of emails, private messages, and glacially slow federal mail.

There is no way I could answer all these questions, so I have compiled some commonly asked questions into the popular Q-and-A format and answered them here.

I won’t waste any more time.

Q: How in the heck are YOU a writer? No offense, but I’m an English major/ teacher/professor/professional writer/constipated person/expert, and your stuff stinks.

A: I appreciate you taking the time to write that. Means a lot.

Q: Wait? Aren’t you gonna argue and try to shut me down?

A: Nah. After all, you made a fair point. My stuff ain’t exactly Joyce. Remember, this writing is something you found on the internet.

Q: So, you mean you think your work is subpar too?

A: Sometimes, sure. Sometimes it reeks.

Q: Then why do you keep writing?

A: Because sometimes it doesn’t.

Q: When I first started following you, I didn’t think you were a spiritual person.

But sometimes your writing gets way too spiritual sounding for me, where do you stand on religious things?

A: Q: Really? You’re not going to answer that?

A: It doesn’t matter what I believe. What matters is what you believe.

Q: Oh, give me a break.

What a cop out. Surely you

can tell me your religious views.

A: I don’t believe that heaven waits for only those who congregate. I’d like to think that God is love. He’s down below, He’s up above.

He’s watching people everywhere, He knows who does and doesn’t care.

Q: Did you just quote a Don Williams song?

A: You bet your astrological sign I did.

Q: Man, Don Williams was great.

A: Tell me about it. I saw him in concert once in New Orleans when I was young.

I had driven all day only to be left standing outside the theater, in the frog-choking rain, because the venue was completely sold out.

I was about to leave when a kindhearted ticket-lady at the door told me that Don Williams wouldn’t want anyone to miss his concert, so she snuck me into the back row for free. She said Don would have wanted it that way. True story.

Q: Dear Sean, are you for real? I’ve followed you and it seems like the life you claim to live is a little too good to be true.

A: The irony here is that most of my life, to be quite frank, has sucked. I have gone through anxiety, depression, blah, blah, blah.

Start playing your air violin.

See, when your life sucks, that’s how you end up viewing the world—as one big Suck Fest. But when you are fortunate enough to have the help of mental-health experts and loved ones who can lead you to daylight, as in my case, life becomes a

veritable Disneyland.

Soon, you find yourself looking at life differently.

You visit rundown truckstop diners and sincerely want to write novels about the elderly waitress you met because life feels so vividly brief and beautiful.

My life isn’t anything remarkable, I simply choose to believe that it is. Because, you see, I’m desperately trying to love my life. I wasted too many years not loving it.

Q: I really want to be a writer, how do I do that?

A: If you’re asking that question, you are already a writer.

Q: No, I mean I want to be a REAL writer.

A: You look pretty real to me.

Q: You know what I mean, I want to be a legit writer.

A: Get in line.

Q: Quit avoiding the question and answer me.

A: Okay. I think what I’m actually hearing is that you want to be a “recognized” writer—which is a normal thing to want. After all, the reason you write is for others to read, right?

But it’s also dangerous to crave recognition. I’ve been to a lot of writing conferences and book events and met writers who, when they say they want to “be a writer,” really just mean they want to “be famous.”

Don’t confuse fame with real success. Brittney Spears is one; Helen Keller is the other.

Q: How are you and your wife holding up since your mother-in-law passed away?

A: First off, thank you for asking. We are doing okay.

November 17, 2021 • Page A5

SEAN DIETRICH Columnist

For my wife, the grief comes in tidal waves. But overall, we’re hanging in there. I’m not going to lie. Our lives look a lot different now. And that’s been hard.

Q: I am going through a really tough time currently.

Someone I love is dying, or I am very sick, or my life is falling apart, can you give me a few words of encouragement?

A: If there is only one thing you take away from this ridiculous Q-and-A column, let it be this: You’re going to make it through whatever private hell you’re going through.

That’s not an opinion.

I know you don’t believe me, and hey, I don’t blame you. But even your doubt cannot change the fact that you, my friend, are going to make it.

Just ask my buddy Mark, who was shot by his mentally-unstable father. Mark nearly bled to death on the kitchen floor. Today, he is the happiest person I know.

Or ask my friend, Linda, who has survived cancer, not five, not six, but seven times.

Talk to my pal Bradley, who tried to kill himself twice, but through therapy and medication is now loving his life, drinking lots of carrot juice, and paddleboarding every morning. And when I see him in a bathing suit I always feel like I should lay off the glazed donuts.

Talk to Jennifer, who lost her mother, her father, and both brothers in a car accident. Then, as if being orphaned wasn’t bad enough, she was hospitalized with a rare cancer. But guess what?

Jennifer made a full physical recovery, and is getting married next spring.

You—yes, you—are going to get through this mess. Not because you are strong, not because you said the right prayers, not because you believed hard enough, but because there is an unseen Being up there who will drag you through to safety.

No, I’m not talking about a divine white-bearded old geezer, floating in the sky, wearing a John-Belushi toga, looking like a character akin to Santa Claus. There is a lot more up there than a heavenly Rip Van Winkle. And that is exactly what is going to get you through this.

And here is the coolest part: While you read these weakly written words, something in your heart knows you’re going to be okay.

Yep. You know I’m right.

You can’t explain how you know, but you do. On some level, you have this small, faint, almost unnoticeable feeling, but it’s definitely there. It’s buried beneath the fear and uncertainty. You are going to survive this.

Go with that feeling. Trust that feeling. Feed that feeling daily. Exercise it. Don’t let that feeling go, not even for a nanosecond.

And when this is all over, write back to me. I’ll buy you a beer and we can compare our scars.

Q: Okay, see? That all sounded pretty spiritual.

A: You can blame Don Williams.

From the statehouse: Gov. John Patterson’s first lesson

G

overnor John Patterson, who passed away earlier this year at 99, shared a funny story that occurred during the opening days of his administration.

He entered the Governor’s office in January 1959 as the clean government, strict law enforcement governor. He followed Big Jim Folsom’s second administration, which had been less than perfect when it came to favoritism, nepotism and corruption. Patterson was determined to run a clean ship.

His first day as governor he called his cabinet in for a pep talk and told them to run their departments aboveboard and free of any semblance of favoritism. He dismissed them and told them to get to work running the state.

He turned to his new public safety director, Floyd Mann, and asked him to stay behind. Floyd Mann was a well-respected man in Alabama politics. He had been chief of police in Opelika prior to Patterson appointing him head of the highway patrol. Mann and Patterson were lifelong friends. They had grown up and gone to school together in Tallapoosa County.

Patterson looked at his friend and said, “Floyd, under no circumstances are we going to fix any tickets during my administration. Do you understand?”

Mann went on his way to his first day as public safety director and supervisor of the highway patrol. That was about

STEVE FLOWERS Columnist 11:00 a.m. About 2:30 in the afternoon the new governor got a message that he had had a call from senior U.S. Senator Lister Hill. Within 30 minutes he had a message that Senator John Sparkman had called as well as Congressmen George Andrews and Frank Boykin.

He assumed that all our distinguished congressional delegates were calling to wish him well on his first day as governor.

When he called these four, very powerful, Washington solons back, he learned that an equally powerful congressman from Missouri had been detained and indeed arrested in south Alabama. The congressman had been vacationing in Florida with his family and had been driving back to Missouri when he was caught speeding in Conecuh County. At that time, an out-ofstate driver could not sign his own bond in Alabama, so the good congressman had been detained for more than three hours with his family waiting to locate a justice of the peace. The congressman was upset, to say the least. Hill and Sparkman were somewhat tactful with the new governor. They simply suggest-

ed that the speeder was a powerful and important member of Congress and that it would be helpful to them if Patterson could help their colleague get back on his way home to Missouri. Frank Boykin was more direct. He informed Patterson that this congressman chaired the committee that oversaw all the appropriations for waterways. He further explained that he and Senators Hill and Sparkman had been working diligently for years to get funding for the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway and the project was pending in this congressman’s committee at this time.

Governor Patterson called Colonel Mann and said, “Floyd can you come over here a minute?” When Mann arrived in the governor’s office Patterson told his buddy, “You know, Floyd, when I told you this morning not to fix any tickets? Well, we’ve had a change in policy.” The no ticket fixing policy of the Patterson Administration lasted four hours.

Mann dispatched a trooper to not only release the congressman but to give him a trooper escort out of the state.

Governor Patterson learned a lesson from that experience – never say never. He also should be given some credit for obtaining funding for the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway.

A similar story was told to me by former congressman, Governor Ivey’s Chief of Staff, and recently crowned Chancellor of University of South Al-

abama, Jo Bonner. He was a new congressman from Mobile-Baldwin. The district has had some illustrious congressmen, including Frank Boykin, Jack Edwards, Sonny Callahan, and Jo Bonner. Edwards, Callahan and Bonner were all good friends and they were headed to the famous annual Frank Boykin gathering in Washington County. It fell to the new congressman, Bonner, to drive. As they were heading back to Mobile, Bonner noticed a blue light in the rearview mirror. Callahan had already told Bonner he was driving too fast.

A deputy sheriff pulled them over and looked in the window and before he asked for Bonner’s driver’s license, he saw Sonny in the backseat and asked, “Sir, aren’t you Congressman Callahan?” Then looked next to Callahan and asked, “Aren’t you Congressman Edwards?” Callahan and Edwards assured the deputy that he was correct. Then they proceeded to tell the deputy that the driver and third member of this trio was a congressman and new one and that the deputy should give him a ticket.

See you next week.

Steve Flowers is Alabama’s leading political columnist. His weekly column appears in over 60 Alabama newspapers. He served 16 years in the state legislature. Steve may be reached at www.steveflowers.us.

Don’t put your money where your “mouse” is.

BUYING LOCAL MEANS...

• You’ll get better customer service.

• You’ll nd unique gifts.

• You’ll feel better about where your money goes.

LOVE your community – Buy LOCAL!

Page A6 • Wednesday, November 17, 2021

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The Tallassee Tribune

TALLASSEE FOG

SUBMITTED | THE TRIBUNE

Mike Wolfe and Danielle Colby are bring American Pickers back to Alabama and are looking for help in finding collections.

American Pickers coming to Alabama STAFF REPORT Mike Wolfe and Danielle Colby are bringing their show American Pickers to Alabama in February.

American Pickers has made famous an “art” of going through junk and collections to find things of value.

“They hope to give historically significant objects a new lease on life while learning a thing or two about America’s past along the way,” producer Sarah Perkins said in a release. “The Pickers have seen a lot of rusty gold over the years and are always looking to discover something they’ve never seen before.”

American Pickers is a documentary series that explores the fascinating world of antique “picking” on The History Channel,” Perkins said. “The hit show follows skilled pickers in the business, as they hunt for America’s most valuable antiques. They are always excited to find sizeable, unique collections and learn the interesting stories behind them.”

In preparation for filming next year producers of the History Channel show are looking for help.

“We’re looking for leads throughout the state, specifically interesting characters with fascinating items and lots of them.”

Perkins said the crew of American Pickers take the pandemic seriously and will be following the COVID-19 guidelines and protocols outlined by the state and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. But the pandemic will not stop the gathering of history and stories for the show.

“We are excited to continue reaching the many collectors in the area to discuss their years of picking and are eager to hear their memorable stories,” Perkins said.

American Pickers is seeking leads to hidden treasure of people with large private collection or an accumulation of antiques Mike and Danielle can spend the better part of a day looking through. Leads including name, phone number, location and a description of the collection with photographs can be sent to americanpickers@ cineflix.com, on Facebook at @GotAPick or by calling 855-OLD-RUST.

CLIFF WILLIAMS | THE TRIBUNE

Fog covered the Tallapoosa River and the Fitzpatrick Bridge Friday morning while the area was under a dense fog advisory.

— SM ALL CHANGE —

BIG

DIFFERENCE Follow these tips to lower your power bill.

Program your thermostat to 68° or lower.

Set ceiling fans to run clockwise in winter.

For more ways to save by making your home more energy efficient, visit AlabamaPower.com/tips.

© 2021 Alabama Power Company

Raise your blinds to let the sun help heat your home.

The Tallassee Tribune

www.TallasseeTribune.com

Wednesday, November 17, 2021 • Page A7

Humane Society of Elmore County News

By REA CORD Executive Director The holiday season approaching often reminds on us to check on others – elderly, those less fortunate, those facing challenging times. Of course, we should do this yearround but just in case there is no better time than the present. One thing we see too often in animal shelters are elderly owners who not only may be having difficulty in caring for their pet(s), but they may not realize their pet is having medical or other difficulties and may be in need of extra care.

Not only do us humans live longer, but our pets do as well. Just like us, our pets live longer as a result of better diets, exercise and medical care by their veterinarian. But longer lives also lead to both people and pets with increased care requirements whether that be modified diets, more trips to the Vet for recurrent issues, or just more attention paid to the changes happening with an aging pet. Increasingly we see senior pets coming to us, and upon arrival

man dementia or Alzheimer’s, they may forget to feed their pet or also not realize that their pet has been missing for longer than a few hours while it is locked outside (or has escaped).

So we bring this up to ask that family, friends and neighbor’s please also keep an eye out for the pets of those who may no longer be seeing the reality of their pet’s needs and health. They may need help with a ride to a Vet or even need the help of a mobile Vet to come to their house. Or they simply may need the help

of checking to make sure they have dog/cat food and that the pet is being fed regularly. Helping a pet suffering from fleas is also helping the owner who may be being bitten by fleas in the house as well. We are asking for everyone to look out for each other AND try to also look out for each other’s pets when there is a need for a bit more oversight. If you love animals this is not only helping the animal, but helping their human as well, and we can all use a lot more of helping each other these days.

FILE PHOTO

they are in a very apparent state of neglect. We see terribly overgrown (and ingrown) nails, coats with missing hair from parasites or neglected medical issues, teeth severely in need of dental care and often extractions, ears that are infected and painful, and

more.

Many times, these pets have had elderly owners who have their own issues, such as reduced vision or limited means and ability to get around, and simply are not realizing the issues their beloved pet is also having. They may not

be able to trim their dog’s nails and, if they cannot drive, cannot get their pet to a vet or groomer. These owners may not comprehend that their pet is simply not eating as well as it used to because its teeth are painful. If a pet owner is also dealing with hu-

PET OF THE WEEK

In Your Community

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When you’re a military veteran with over 40,000 organizations trying to help you, it can be difficult to find the right information.

That’s why AARP created the Veterans Health Benefits Navigator—a free tool to help veterans and their caregivers ask the right questions and easily review health care benefits from U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Medicare, and even private insurance.

Download Now at aarp.org/VetsHealthNavigator

TEXTILE MILLS ASBESTOS CLAIMS If you began working in a Textile Mill, Tire Plant, Paper Mill, Steel Mill or any other industrial setting before 1980: You may have a claim against the asbestos manufacturers.

Call now for your free evaluation.

1-(888)432-6020 Asbestos Claims, LLC, Jubal L. Hamil Attorney at Law ARPC 7.2.(e) “No representation is made that the quality of the legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.”

PET OF THE WEEK – DEMI

Demi is an eight-month-old female terrier mix, & about 40 lbs so not getting much bigger at all.

Demi is quite the clown – very playful, funny and loving. She adores toys, is a very active gal and is great with other dogs. Quite striking!

HSEC’s adoption fees are $100 for dogs & $50 for cats under oneyear-old; approved adopters for a

fee of their choosing can adopt cats over one-year-old. This adoption fee completely covers the mandatory spay or neuter, basic immunizations, de-worming, microchip, heartworm check for dogs, rabies vaccination if old enough, free health exam with your participating veterinarian.

If you are interested in meeting Demi or any of the HSEC pets,

please first email us at hselco@ bellsouth.net for our Adoption Application. Once that is cleared, we will coordinate with you to set up an appointment to meet and adopt.

HSEC located at 255 Central Plank Road, Wetumpka, AL, 36092, the phone number is 334-567-3377 and the HSEC website is www.elmorehumane.org for more information.

Don’t put your money where your “mouse” is.

BUYING LOCAL MEANS...

• You’ll get better customer service.

• You’ll nd unique gifts.

• You’ll feel better about where your money goes.

LOVE your community – Buy LOCAL!

Religion

Visit our sister websites: www.AlexCityOutlook.com www.TheWetumpkaHerald.com

Page A8 • Wednesday, November 17, 2021

www.TallasseeTribune.com

We wish to see Jesus “Now among those who went up to worship at the feast were some Greeks. So these came to Philip, who was from Bethsaida in Galilee, and asked him, “Sir, we wish to see Jesus.” - John 12:20-21

Jesus. I even described where it should be located, behind the big altar at the front of the cathedral. He shook his head, said something like, “I can’t help you,” and turned his attention to another guest. I was sad, but I knew I wasn’t going to see the statue of Jesus I wanted to see that day. I guess when 5.5 million of us pass through in a year, nobody gets a whole lot of time or attention.

I thought about that episode at St .Patrick’s when I read about these Greeks. These people were non-Jewish adherents of Judaism who had come to the feast in Jerusalem.

They approached the only apostle with a Greek name (Philip) and asked to see Jesus.

We don’t know from the narrative if they got to see him or not. Were they standing there to hear what Jesus said to Philip and Andrew in the following verses? We don’t know. But I know I like their desire to see Jesus. I wish to see him, too.

Do you wish to see Jesus? I don’t mean a statue of him, but really him. I can assure you with confidence that your wish will be

I

t’s been more than ten years since I visited St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City. I doubt anyone there remembers me, since I was one person out of 5.5 million who visited there that year. But I remember being there and what happened while I was inside.

I approached the guide who met us in the back of the cathedral and explained that I wanted to see Jesus. He listened to me for a few seconds and said, “Not here.” I was patient and described to the gentleman what I wanted to see — a small statue of the boy Jesus holding the world in his hand. “There are many statues of Jesus here,” the man said, “But there is nothing like that here.” I told him I was a long way from home and tried to explain why I wanted to see this particular

BETHLEHEM EAST BAPTIST CHURCH

Bethlehem East Baptist Church will have all Sunday school classes beginning at 9:45 a.m. Sunday morning followed by regular service at 11 a.m. in the sanctuary. We will continue with Facebook Live Sunday School at 9:30 a.m. and Worship Service at 11 a.m.

CARRVILLE BAPTIST CHURCH

Regular hours of service are Sundays- 9 a.m. Sunday School and 10 a.m. Morning Worship.

Wednesday nights at 6:30 p.m. the church offers Children’s Gospel Project, Youth Bible Study and Adult Prayer Meeting. Regular office hours are Monday-Thursday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

MIKE MCELROY Columnist granted. That promise will be kept when Jesus comes again: “Beloved, we are God’s children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when he appears we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is” (1 John 3:2). When every tongue confesses Jesus as Lord and every knee bows before him (Philippians 2:11), his people will delight to finally see him. But not everybody will be so happy about it. “Behold, he is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see him, even those who pierced him, and all the tribes of the earth will wail on account of him. Even so. Amen” (Revelation 1:17).

Our longing to see him isn’t really longing if we have little interest in seeing him now, in this present life. Over all the other people and things that compete for our attention and loyalty, do you want to see Je-

sus most of all?

All who truly love Jesus must do so with a singular love — “with all your heart, soul and mind” (Matthew 22:37). We all have one master whom we love and serve.

“No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money” (Matthew 6:24). We each must decide whether we want to please God or other people (Galatians 1:10). What is the “one thing” in your life that you are determined to do (Philippians 3:13-14)?

If we love Jesus most of all and want to see Jesus so much, it will determine our priorities, direct our choices and guide our conduct. We will be ready to see him that day.

You and I need to take this verse personally. We sometimes talk about this verse when we discuss influence or what the church should be like. We think about it when we evaluate preaching. Could a guest or or church member see Jesus in what was said and done? But none of those is our question for today. This is personal. The question for each of us to answer is, “Do I want to see Jesus?”

Church Briefs

EAST TALLASSEE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

ETUMC’s Rivers Edge Flea Market is now closed. The church will start a new project called Rivers Edge Food Pantry. ETUMC will provide can food, water, dry beans and rice, blankets, and jackets. If you want to donate or help with the cause, call Joan Wood at 334312-4913.

EPISCOPAL CHURCH OF THE EPIPHANY

nyTallassee/ For more information, visit the church website at http:// epiphanytallassee.org/

FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

First Presbyterian Church, located at 514 Central Blvd. will host a Veteran’s Day Celebration on Nov. 11 from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. for all veterans and first responders and their family members.

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

Please join us for Sunday services at 10:30 a.m. when the Rev. Lee Lowery will celebrate the Holy Eucharist. We are asking everyone please to wear a mask. The service will be live streamed on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Epipha-

“We are OPEN and everyone is WELCOME! Come worship with us in person Sunday mornings at 8:50 a.m. (contemporary) or 11 a.m. (traditional). Sunday School for all ages is offered Sunday mornings at 10 a.m., and a nursery is available for infants. CHILDREN &

YOUTH: meet Sunday evenings from 5-6:30 p.m. and Wednesday evenings from 6-7:15 p.m.; supper is included both days! For more information about our church or the programs we offer, visit our website: fumctallassee.com or call us: 334-283-2195. FUMC Tallassee 1 Jordan Avenue.”

GOD’S CONGREGATION HOLINESS CHURCH

Beginning Thursday Oct. 7 through Oct. 9 at 7 p.m. nightly.

Thursday night: Pastor Bowe from New Beginning Holiness, Wetumpka.

Friday night: Pastor Robinson from House of Prayer, Notasulga.

Saturday night: Minister Jones from Lakeland, FL.

OUR LIFE’S JOURNEY

GCHC, located at 508 Jordan Ave. will host a Called Back to Holiness Conference.

Everyone is invited. Bishop Gauntt will hold the Pastor Sessions during the day with great teaching of the Bible. Thursday and Friday Services will be held at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Airs every Sunday at 8:30 a.m. on 580 WACQ, FM 98.5 & 101.1, on your smart speaker, your TuneIn app, or on our website www.wacqradio.com. Please share on social media. This set of programs features Msgr. Charles Troncale, Fr. Mateusz Rudzik, Fr. James Dean, Fr. David Carucci, Fr. Patrick Driscoll, and Deacon Jim Labadie.

Tallassee Churches BAPTIST Bethlehem East 7561 Upper River Road Calvary Baptist Church 293 N Wesson Street Word of Life 501 Sims Avenue Carrville Baptist Church 2436 Notasulga Road East Tallassee Baptist Church 314 Central Boulevard Elam Baptist Church 4686 Notasulga Road First Baptist Church 1279 Friendship Road Flatrock Missionary Baptist

Church 1024 Flat Rock Road Friendship 4345 Friendship Road Liberty Baptist Church 574 Liberty Road Mount Zion Baptist Church 64 Log Circle Providence Primitive Baptist Church 4850 Chana Creek Road Refuge Baptist Church 3098 Red Hill Road River Road 239 Lower Tuskegee Road Riverside Heights Hispanic

Mission 495 Little Road Rock Springs 375 Rigsby Road Rock Springs Baptist Church 2810 Rock Springs Drive Tallassee First 1279 Friendship Road Tallaweka Baptist Church 1419 Gilmer Avenue Westside Baptist Church 1825 Gilmer Avenue CATHOLIC St Vincent De Paul Parish 620 Gilmer Avenue

CHRISTIAN/OTHER Apostolic Church of Jesus Christ 1072 Muskogee Trail East Tallassee Church of Christ 501 Central Boulevard First Presbyterian Church 514 Central Blvd Light of Jesus Outreach Ministries 140 Gin Street Macedonia Christian Church 2685 Macedonia Road Mount Olive Congregational Christian Church NACCC 492 Kent Road Oak Heights Church of Christ

74 Manning Circle Tallassee Church of Christ 209 Gilmer Avenue Wind Rain & Fire Ministries International 1201 Gilmer Avenue Vessel Church 84632 Tallassee Highway, Eclectic, AL 36024 God’s Church, Campfire Ministries 209 Barnett Bouelvard Tallassee, AL 36078 The Lord Our Righteousness Center, Inc. 4566 Claud Road Eclectic, AL

Surrounding Area Churches AME ZION Mt. Zion Chapel AME Zion 2340 Crenshaw Rd., Wetumpka 567-4413 Rogers Chapel AME Zion 709 W. Bridge St., Wetumpka 5678144 Jackson Chapel AME Zion 4885 Coosada Rd., Coosada Jones Chapel AME Zion 2414 Ingram Rd. (Co. Rd. 3), El-

more ABUNDANT LIFE Abundant Life Church 9301 U.S. Hwy 231, Wetumpka 567-9143 ASSEMBLY OF GOD Agape Tabernacle Assembly of God 1076 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic 541-

HERREN HILL PHARMACY & GIFTS Hometown Service from the People You Trust!

24 Herren Hill Road P.O. Box 780061 Tallassee, AL 36078

HOURS: Mon. - Fri. 7:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.

Sat. 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.

(334) 252-8800

eat fresh.

™

“Come to see us.”

464 Gilmer Avenue 283-2247

Talisi Florist 906 Gilmer Avenue Tallassee, AL (334) 991-4230

Beautiful, Quality, Flowers For Any Occasion.

LOW COST CARS

Used Carss & Trucks

5264 Notasulga Road Tallassee, AL

“Take a Ride...

Then Decide!”

LOW COST CARS...............................(334) 283-3051 BOBBY KELLEY (Cell).....................(334) 415-3062 DAWN HAMMOCK..........................(334) 283-3051

Serving Tallassee since 1992

2006 Bethel Worship Center 11117 U.S. Hwy 231., Wetumpka 567-5754 Crossroads Assembly of God 2534 AL Hwy 14., Millbrook 2855545 First Assembly of God 3511 Shirley Ln., Millbrook New Home Assembly of God 5620 Caesarville Rd., Wetumpka

SCF

•Portable Storage Buildings •Frame Tech Steel Buildings •Garages •Gazebos •Greenhouses •Playhouses

5427 Notasulga Road Hwy. 49 & 14 Tallassee, AL 36078

(334) 252-1333

BUILDINGS

569-2825 BAPTIST Abraham Baptist Church 2520 Lynwood Dr., Millbrook 2855213 Antioch Baptist Church 1115 Antioch Rd., Titus 567-2917 Beulah Baptist Church 2350 Grier Rd., Wetumpka 5142881

Phone

East Tallassee Baptist Church

SUNDAYS Sunday School.......................................9:15 AM Worship Service...................................10:25AM Evening Worship...................................5:00 PM Youth & Children’s Bible Study...........5:00 PM WEDNESDAYS Bible Study..............................................6:00 PM Youth & Children’s Bible Study............6:00 PM Children in Action.................................6:00 PM 314 Central Blvd. • Tallassee, AL • (334) 283-5808

‘‘ Y O U R L O C A L G A S G O M P A N Y ’’ WETUMPKA OFFICE CLANTON OFFICE 1050 Woodfin Lane • (205) 755-2739 7616 US Hwy. 231 • (334) 567-8833 SLAPOUT OFFICE TALLASSEE OFFICE 9945 Holtville Road • (334) 569-3325 1603 Gilmer Avenue • (334) 283-2795

CITY COLLISION

FOR ALL YOUR PAINT AND BODY NEEDS

89077 Tallassee Hwy. • Tallassee, AL dlh4012@aol.com Dana Haynes, Owner 334-391-7345

Submit your church news to: editor@tallasseetribune.com

The deadline is FRIDAY at noon

Blue Ridge Baptist 4471 Jasmine Hill Rd., Wetumpka 567-4325 Brookwood Baptist 3111 Grandview Rd., Millbrook 2856792 Calvary Baptist 504 W. Osceola St., Wetumpka 5674729 Central Baptist 3545 W. Central Rd., Wetumpka

If you would like to be a sponsor of the Devotional Thoughts each week, please give us a call, 334-567-7811.

––––––

The Tallassee Tribune

Sports

Phone: 334-283-6568 Fax: 334-283-6569 www.TallasseeTribune.com

www.TallasseeTribune.com Wednesday, November 3, 2021 • Page B1 The

Tribune

DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

All bell, no bite?

I

’ve always had a goal to try and go to every SEC football stadium and enjoy a game day experience there. I haven’t made too much progress on that life goal so far, but I did scratch a new one off my list this weekend.

This past weekend, I hit the very short drive over to Auburn to attend the Mississippi State vs. Auburn football game and see some friends. I had some friends travel from Mississippi to come watch the game with me, and I even had one drive up from around Orlando, Fl., to watch the game.

Auburn now makes it six SEC stadiums I’ve been to.

Those are Mississippi State, Ole Miss, LSU, Auburn, Alabama and Georgia.

It was one heckuva game I went to this weekend. Auburn went up 28-3 (haha, Atlanta Falcons choke) about midway through the second quarter and my five friends and I were all ready to leave. Mississippi State looked awful, but the Bulldogs scored a touchdown late in the second quarter to make the 28-10.

We decided to stay, since we paid for the tickets and all, and just hoped the Bulldogs would make it respectable.

Then came the comeback of a lifetime.

Mississippi State scored 40 straight points, and ended up winning, 43-34. It was the biggest comeback in Mississippi State history, and it was the highest scoring game for Mississippi State in its series history against Auburn.

As a Mississippi State fan, what a game. And for it to be my first game in Auburn was super exciting. Plus seeing Spirit the Bald Eagle fly in its last game was pretty cool. I enjoyed that tradition.

Even when Mississippi State was losing, though, we were having a great time. The fans that were sitting around us were all great. Everyone was super nice and super respectful. We made some friends and had a good time talking with them all throughout the game.

But as the game was closing and Auburn went for the two-

NEXT LEVEL Holtville’s Drey Barrett commits to Southern Miss baseball

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor Drey Barrett has always dreamed of being a two-way player at the college level, so last week he chose the school that can make that happen for him.

Barrett, a sophomore shortstop and pitcher at Holtville high school, committed to play college baseball at the University of Southern Mississippi. Barrett went to a camp there in October, impressed the coaching staff, and was quickly invited back for a visit with his family.

A few days after their visit, Barrett was offered and committed on Nov. 1.

“I went down there for a camp and really liked the campus, so I knew that was a place I really liked,” Barrett said. “After the camp, we went on a visit and I liked the facilities even more. From there, I got the coach’s contact information and a few days later, they offered me as a two-way. That’s always what I wanted, so I committed about three days later.”

At 6-foot-3 already as a sophomore, Barrett’s frame already fits that of a college baseball player. His skills do as well, and he’s shown that both on the mound and in the field at Holtville and at the plate with the East Coast Sox and Perfect Game.

As a freshman with Holtville last spring season, Barrett didn’t break into the lineup, but he played major innings as a utility infielder and both a starting and relief pitcher.

He considers himself to be a fastball pitcher, with him already throwing 85-86 MPH and having reached 87 MPH this fall, but he does have four pitches in his repertoire. To complement his fastball, he also throws a slider, curveball and changeup.

See LEVEL, Page B2

See BELL, Page B2

Wetumpka’s Perry to retire from coaching after 41 years

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor After 41 years of coaching and 10 years of leading the Indians, Wetumpka head football coach Tim Perry has decided to call it a career.

Perry announced his retirement to his football team after Wetumpka’s first-round loss to Saraland two weeks ago. He ends his Wetumpka career with a 69-49 overall record with the Indians and a 9-9 playoff record.

He helped lead the IndiANDY ANDERS | THE HERALD ans to a 13-2 record and a Wetumpka head coach Tim Perry announced his retirement following the Indians’ season finale.

Class 6A state championIn 10 years, Perry had a 69-49 record with Wetumpka.

ship appearance in 2017. His squads went 5-6 in each of the last two seasons. Perry also serves as Wetumpka’s athletic director, and he will serve in that role until the end of the current school year.

“It’s really bittersweet,” Perry said. “I still love to coach and I love Wetumpka football. I’ll always love Wetumpka football. I still See RETIRE, Page B2

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LEVEL

Continued from B1

He finished the year with 111 total chances in the field with a .901 fielding percentage, mostly at second base, and he had a 2-1 record with a 1.59 earned run average in 30.2 innings on the mound.

With the East Coast Sox, he has played shortstop and has impressed at the plate with a career .328 batting average over his four seasons with the team. He has become a solid doubles hitter and can spray the ball to all gaps in the outfield.

“I think I’m very versatile and that’s one of the biggest things that Southern Miss liked about me,” Barrett said. “I can play anywhere on the infield and I can pitch for them, so that’s what that two-way option will be when I get there.

Whatever they ask me to do, I’ll do it and I feel like they liked that.”

While Southern Miss ended up being Barrett’s destination, the Golden Eagles weren’t the only school showing interest to the sophomore. Barrett threw a bullpen for Auburn at Auburn, threw a bullpen for both Alabama and Penn State in Ft. Myers, and threw a bullpen for South Alabama at the East Coast Sox Scout Day. All four of those schools contacted East Coast Sox coach Eric Dubose about Barrett, but none had sent an official offer yet.

Southern Miss did, however, offer Barrett and he was very impressed with the program that USM head coach Scott Berry is running.

Southern Miss has been one of the top outfits in the country over the last few years. The Golden Eagles are one of only a handful of teams that have accumulated 40 wins in each of the last five seasons, and they finished last year with a 40-21 record.

Southern Miss nearly hosted a regional tournament at Pete Taylor Park this past season, but instead entered the 2021 postseason as a No. 2 seed in the Oxford regional.

The Golden Eagles came just a few runs short of making it to the super regionals and lost, 12-9, to Ole Miss in the regional championship.

“When you go to a program like Southern Miss, you have a really good shot of making it to Omaha,” Barrett said.

“That’s the dream for ever college baseball player. As it gets better and better, the program gets better and better.

They’ll get better players and we will be able to make a run and get to Omaha.”

BELL

Continued from B1

point conversion and failed it, basically giving MSU the win, a bunch of the fans around us left. When they did, one fan threw a pin at us. The pin, which was given to them by the university bookstore, just said “All Bell, No Bite.”

We never saw who threw the pin, but I kept it. It was a nice little souvenir to take home and it honestly made me laugh. I know a lot of people hate the MSU cowbells. I understand why they do. It’s a tradition and it’s loud. Visitors aren’t supposed to like them.

But at away games, we aren’t allowed to bring them.

Trust me, I would’ve loved to bring my two cowbells covered in “Beat Auburn” and whoever else is on the various stickers and used them the entire game.

I only heard one cowbell in the entire stadium on Saturday, and it seemed to get confiscated pretty early in the game. I only heard it right after the national anthem, so I’m guessing it got taken.

But that pin made me laugh on Saturday. For much of the game, the pin was true. Mississippi State looked to not have any bite in them, but they sure did that second half. The Bulldogs bit back, and bit back in a big way. And without a cowbell in the entire sta-

dium.

I don’t think the pin was stupid. It was pretty clever.

I love gathering the beat whoever stickers when I go to games, but I just thought it was really funny and ironic that there wasn’t a single cowbell in sight and yet the Bulldogs bit hard for their 25-point comeback win.

When the game ended, our little group went to the various bars and walked around Toomer’s Corner for a few hours before settling at the Skybar Café for the night. We left Auburn around 9 p.m. or so to get back home, and it was a pretty fantastic day.

The strip around Toomer’s Corner is one of the best and most beautiful strips I’ve seen in the SEC trips I’ve made. And really, Skybar Café was probably one of the coolest bars I’ve been to. It seemed to just be never-ending as I walked around slightly intoxicated.

We had a great time, and now I can mark Auburn off my list. Out of my game day experiences so far, stadiums and bars and surrounding areas included, I think my list goes like this: No. 1 Georgia, No. 2 Auburn, No. 3 LSU, No. 4 Mississippi State, No. 5 Alabama and No. 6 Ole Miss.

It was a weekend for the books, and I cannot wait to make another trip to Auburn for another game day. And to all the Auburn fans still recovering from the loss, here’s one last Hail State.

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The Tallassee Tribune

FINAL FLIGHT Auburn University’s bald eagle Spirit named Honorary War Eagle

STAFF REPORT Auburn University’s bald eagle Spirit has flown alongside the school’s official golden eagles—designated War Eagles—since her first stadium flight in 2002. In recognition of her service and impending retirement, the university’s Board of Trustees passed a resolution Friday naming Spirit an Honorary War Eagle.

“Spirit has been a great icon for Auburn and for wildlife conservation,” said Andrew Hopkins, assistant director of raptor training and education at Auburn’s Southeastern Raptor Center in the College of Veterinary Medicine. “We appreciate the board honoring her among our great tradition of War Eagles.”

Fans will have an opportunity to see Spirit soar one last time as she makes her final Jordan-Hare Stadium pregame flight when Auburn hosts Mississippi State at 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 13. The flight will occur approximately 20 minutes before kickoff, and she will be honored during a halftime ceremony.

“The game is Auburn’s military appreciation game, so it’s fitting we fly our bald eagle Spirit at the game that honors our veterans and current service members,” Hopkins said.

In July, the university announced the retirement of 25-year-old Spirit. The median life expectancy for bald eagles in captivity is 16.5

years, so raptor center staff and veterinarians decided it would be best to retire her from stadium flights. However, she will continue to make appearances during educational shows at the raptor center.

“Spirit has been a great educational ambassador,” Hopkins said. “She has developed some arthritis, but that is typical for her age and, overall, she is in very good health.”

Spirit was brought to the raptor center in the late 1990s after being discovered in Florida with an injured wing and beak. Due to her permanent beak damage, she was treated and found to be non-releasable.

She soon began training for pregame festivities during home football games and made her first Jordan-Hare flight

RETIRE

Continued from B1

have a passion for coaching and working with young men and other coaches. But I just felt like this was the right time to step away. It’s hard to put into words, but I just felt like it was just time. It wasn’t an easy or quick decision.”

Perry is a seasoned veteran in the coaching ranks. He began his career 41 years ago in 1980, and he’s coached in both the high school and college ranks across four different states.

He began his career in Memphis, where he served for five years before he took the head coaching job at Alabama Christian from 1985-1988. He then left the state of Alabama and went to Louisiana to coach with his college teammates for two years.

After his two seasons there, Perry came back to Alabama Christian and served there from 1991-2000. During his entire Alabama Christian tenure, his teams accumulated a 73-73 over-

Sept. 28, 2002.

She has inspired Auburn fans during pregame festivities at 46 Auburn Tigers football games. In addition to her time spent supporting the Tigers, Spirit serves as a representative for wildlife conservation, having been part of more than 1,800 raptor center educational presentations to more than 105,000 attendees.

As she retires, a young bald eagle named Independence, or Indy, has started making pregame flights—appearing three times this season—along with Aurea, War Eagle VIII. “Spirit has brought much attention to Auburn, the Southeastern Raptor Center and wildlife conservation,” said College of Veterinary Medicine Dean Calvin Johnson. “We are pleased she will contin-

all record with a 3-6 playoff record.

In 2001, he took a job at Central Arkansas Christian in Little Rock, Arkansas, and spent seven years as the head coach there. His team won the 2004 state championship and returned to the state championship in 2005, but lost.

Following his seven years there, he took a job as the offensive coordinator at Harding University, but left after two years due to missing coaching at the high school level. He then took the head coaching job at Wetumpka, where he has coached for the last 10 years.

So with coaching football for the last 41 years and being around football for the last 50+ years, the decision to retire wasn’t an easy for one Perry. But he said if there was ever going to be a right time, this was it.

“Wetumpka High School is a great place and the football program is a really good program,” Perry said. “I was blessed to be a part of it. It has great tradition from all the previous coaches that have built it, and it was just an

ue to make an impact through appearances in educational presentations.”

The raptor center ’s mission is to rehabilitate and release injured and orphaned raptors, educate the public about these magnificent birds of prey and research raptor-related issues. The center is given permission by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to house, care for and showcase non-releasable birds of prey in its educational mission.

More information about Spirit and other resident raptors is available at www.auburnspirit.org. Financial donations to help support the Southeastern Raptor Center can be made online or by contacting the college’s Advancement office at giving@ vetmed.auburn.edu or 334-844-1446.

honor and a privilege for me to be a part of it for 10 years.”

No single individual factor played into Perry’s decision. But one thing that did, he said, is the hours that are required to continue to be successful.

The hours aren’t an issue for him, but the hours that are required to be effective are a lot for any coach.

Plus Perry’s parents, both of which are in their 80s, have relocated from West Virginia to Destin, Florida. Perry said he has not been able to spend as much time with them and his family as he would have liked over the last 41 years, so he and his wife decided if any time was right, it is now.

Perry plans to still reside in the Wetumpka area and stay involved in the community, and he isn’t closing the book on coaching in the future as well.

He will entertain opportunities if they arise and he feels good about.

“If I can help a program in some way, I would be interested,” Perry said. “Right now, it just felt like the time was right to step away from it for a little while.”

The Tallassee Tribune

www.TallasseeTribune.com

Wednesday, November 17, 2021 • Page B3

ClassiÄeds

Lake & River Phone (256) 277-4219 Fax (205) 669-4217 The Alexander City Outlook

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PUZZLES & HOROSCOPE ARIES (March 21-April 19) Be smart and double-check details related to banking, shared property, inheritances, insurance issues and anything that you share with someone else, because something unexpected could throw a wrench in things today.

(And if you’re in England, it’s a spanner.)

Tonight: Avoid quarrels.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20) Today you might meet someone unusual or “different.” What’s more likely is that a friend or your partner will throw you a curveball or suggest something that you didn’t see coming. They might demand more freedom in the relationship. Expect a surprise today. Tonight: Patience.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20) Your work routine or something to do with your job will change today: staff shortages, power outages, equipment breakdowns, computer glitches -- could be anything. Therefore, be smart and allow extra time so you can have wiggle room to cope with the unexpected.

Tonight: Solitude.

CANCER (June 21-July 22) Parents take note: This is an accident-prone day for your kids, so be extra vigilant. Meanwhile, everyone can expect a change of plans to social occasions or anything to do with sports and the arts. You might receive a surprise invitation. A social event might be canceled. Tonight: Avoid arguments.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) Your home routine will be interrupted today. Perhaps a small appliance will break down or a minor breakage will occur. Someone unexpected might knock on your door. It will be wise to stock the fridge -- anything could happen, and it’s nice to be prepared.

Tonight: Defer to authority.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) Pay attention to everything you say and do today, because this is an accident-prone day for you. Your daily routine will be interrupted. New faces, new places and new ideas might create change for you. Fortunately, you’re light on your feet and ready to think outside

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LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) Keep an eye on your money and your possessions today to protect them from loss, damage or theft. Something unexpected might impact them. For example, you might nd money; you might lose money. Tonight: Check your bank account.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) Today Fiery Mars is in your sign sitting opposite unpredictable Uranus. This will make you impulsive and will promote rash actions on your part. You might act without thinking. Remember to count to three before you say or do anything so you can avoid regrets.

Tonight: Cooperate.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) Today you feel vaguely restless. You have that feeling that you’re waiting for the other shoe to drop. Possibly, something going on behind the scenes will surprise you. A secret might come out. Today is full of little surprises for everyone. Tonight: Tread carefully.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) You might want to direct the activities of a friend or a group today. If so, think carefully about what you’re doing, because things are unpredictable and will not unfold as you expect them to. Someone in the group might rebel against your suggestions. Tonight: Have patience with kids.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) Today it’s tough to predict how bosses, parents, teachers or the police will react to you. Everything might go smoothly -- or not. It’s denitely a poor day to challenge authority gures. Instead, decide to sit this one out until everything is more predictable. Tonight: Promote harmony at home.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20) Travel plans will change today. Therefore, allow extra time to cope with the unexpected. Alternatively, you might suddenly have to travel when you did not expect to do so. Likewise, school schedules, especially at the university level, might change. Tonight: Listen to others.

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Employment

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Page B4 • Wednesday, November 17, 2021

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Public Notices

Public Notices

Public Notices

ADVERTISEMENT TO BID

PUBLIC NOTICE INVITATION TO BID Sealed bids will be received, opened, and publicly read by the Owner for the Tallassee Collection System Improvements project. The Owner will receive Bids until 10 AM on the 3rd day of December 2021. The bid opening will be held at Tallassee City Hall, located at 3 Freeman Avenue, Tallassee, Alabama.

A non-mandatory Pre-bid Meeting will be held at 10 AM on the 18th day of November 2021. Pre-bid Meeting will be held at Tallassee City Hall, located at 3 Freeman Avenue, Tallassee, Alabama.

The Project is generally described as follows: the rehabilitation of approximately 9,200 linear feet of gravity sewer line and the rehabilitation of approximately 170 vertical feet of associated manholes.

This project (EDA Investment No. 04-01-07357) will be partially funded with Federal funds from the United States Department of Commerce, Economic Development Administration and therefore is subject to the Federal laws and regulations associated with that program.

The Owner requires the Project to be completed in 90 calendar days from date of Notice to Proceed.

Bidding Documents may be obWDLQHG IURP WKH RI¿FH RI &'* Engineers & Associates, 170 East Main, Dothan, AL 36301, (334) 677-9431. Paper copies are available upon receipt of a non-refundable fee in the amount of $75.00 for one set.

PDF electronic copies are available via email at no cost to the bidder.

Bidders will be required to provide Bid security in the form of a Bid Bond or cashier’s check in the amount of a sum QR OHVV WKDQ ¿YH SHUFHQW RI the Bid Price but not more than $10,000.00.

The Owner reserves the right to accept or reject any or all Bids.

Tallassee Tribune: Nov. 3, 10, 17 and 24, 2021 BIDS PUBLIC NOTICE BUILDING INSPECTOR JOB OPENING WITH THE CITY OF TALLASSEE The City of Tallassee has an immediate opening in the Building Department for Building Inspector. This is a full time position which includes state retirement, individual BCBS Insurance and family coverage available paid holidays, sick leave and vacation time.

Applications can be found at the City’s website at www.tallasseeal.gov or picked up at City Hall, 3 Freeman Ave, Tallassee, AL 36078. Position will be open XQWLO ¿OOHG

PUBLIC NOTICE

Sealed bids will be received, opened, and publicly read by the Owner for the DOWNTOWN UTILITY RELOCATION. The Owner will receive Bids until 2:00 PM on the 8th day of December 2021. The bid opening will be held at Tallassee City Hall located at 3 Freeman Avenue, Tallassee, Alabama.

A non-mandatory Pre-bid Meeting will be held at 2:00 PM on the 1st day of December 2021.

Pre-bid Meeting will be held at Tallassee City Hall, located at 3 Freeman Avenue, Tallassee, Alabama.

The Project is generally described as follows: Water: - 1,000 LF – 6” D.I. Water Main, PC 350 Sewer: - 570 LF – 8” D.I. Sanitary Sewer CL 350 Various Depths - 880 LF – 8” PVC Sanitary Sewer SDR 26 Various Depths - 13 EA – 48” Dia. Pre-Cast Concrete Manhole Various Depths Gas: - 2,890 LF – Various sizes Polyethylene Gas Service Lines Storm Drainage: - 210 LF – RC Storm Drainage Pipe, Class III - 2 EA – 48” Dia. Drainage Manhole Miscellaneous - 150 SY – Open Cut Pavement Patching Streets - 1,500 SY – Open Cut Gravel Patching Streets

Public Notices

y All bids will be opened at the council meeting on December 14, 2021. The Tallassee City Council will consider all responsible bids during its December 14, 2021 City Council meeting.

ALL BIDS ARE SUBJECT TO ACCEPTANCE BY THE TALLASSEE CITY COUNCIL AND THE CITY OF TALLASSEE RESERVES THE RIGHT TO REJECT ANY AND ALL BIDS THAT MAY BE SUBMITTED. Tallassee Tribune: Nov. 17, 2021 BIDS/TRUCK PUBLIC NOTICE In The Circuit Court of Elmore County Eddie D. Thomas, vs. Monica V. Foster.

Case No. : 2020-000112.00 Motion To Serve

By Publication

Comes now, Eddie D. Thomas, Pro Se, and moves this Honorable Court pursuant to the Alabama Rules of Court to serve Monica V. Foster by publication and offers the following in support thereof: 1) Since Monica V. Foster cannot be located to serve her with the divorce papers that this Honorable Court have her served by publication in the Tallassee Tribune for the length and duration that is applicable by law.

2) Eddie D. Thomas, is willing, if necessary, to pay the cost of the publication, 3) This would be cost effective and expedient for this Honorable Court, and 4) Service by publication is The Owner requires the Project time worn tool of the Court and to be completed in 120 calendar will in no way negatively effect days from date of Notice to Pro- the Court, Monica V. Foster, or Eddie D. Thomas. ceed.

Wherefore, for the reasons givBidding Documents may be ob- en, Eddie D. Thomas prays that WDLQHG IURP WKH RI¿FH RI &'* this Honorable Court will grant Engineers & Associates, 197 this motion for Service by PubEast University Drive, Suite #1, lication.

Auburn, AL 36830, (334) 466- Done this 20th day of June 20, 9431, louie.arvelo@cdge.com. 2021.

Paper copies are available upon Respectfully submitted, receipt of a non-refundable fee /s/ Eddie D. Thomas in the amount of $100.00 for Eddie D. Thomas one set. PDF electronic copies #238805 B are available via email at no 3800 FOUNTAIN Atmore, AL 36503 cost to bidder.

Bidders will be required to pro- Tallassee Tribune: Nov. 10, 17, vide Bid security in the form 24 and Dec. 1, 2021 of a Bid Bond or cashier’s DR-2020-000112.00 check in the amount of a sum PUBLIC NOTICE QR OHVV WKDQ ¿YH SHUFHQW RI the Bid Price but not more than Notice of Completion 10,000.00.

The Owner reserves the right to accept or reject any or all Bids.

Tallassee Tribune: Nov. 3, 10 and 17, 2021 BIDS/UTILITY PUBLIC NOTICE The City of Tallassee, Alabama is offering for sale a 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. The property will be sold as is, with no warranties whatsoever.

You may submit a sealed bid to buy the property to

The City of Tallassee is an Equal Opportunity Employer and participates in E-verify.

Bid to Buy 2021 Chevy c/o Mrs. Whitney Pitchford Tallassee City Clerk 3 Freeman Avenue Tallassee, Alabama 36078

Tallassee Tribune: Nov. 17 and 24, 2021 BUILDING INSPECTOR

Bids must be received by the city clerk by 12:00 noon CST on Tuesday, December 14, 2021.

In accordance with Chapter 1, Title 39, Code of Alabama, 1975, Notice is hereby given that Faulk Constructors, Inc. has completed the contract Laney Force Main Replacement For City of Tallassee Elmore County, Alabama All persons having any claims for labor, materials or otherwise in connection with This project should immediately notify the Engineer: CDG Engineering, 778 North Dean Road, Suite 200A, Auburn, AL 36830 Tallassee Tribune: Nov. 3, 10, 17 and 24, 2021 COMPLETION Put your ad here call 256.414.4250

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Wednesday, November 17, 2021 • Page B5

Animals of the Arctic

Arctic animals live in the region that surrounds the North Pole.

Often called the Arctic Circle, it should not be confused with Antarctica which is the land where you would find the South Pole. The Arctic is a very cold area that comprises both Ocean Ice and land.

The average summer temperature in the Arctic is around 40-50 degrees, although recently warmer temperatures have been recorded. In the Winter, it is usually around 30 degrees below zero, but it can be as cold as 60 degrees below zero. Trees do not grow in the Arctic due to the permafrost. Permafrost is when the ground is frozen year-round, with only a small amount thawing in the Summer.

This treeless landscape is called the tundra. The Arctic is considered to begin at this unofficial tree line. The region below it is called the Sub-Arctic. The Arctic gets very little sunlight and is dark for many months during the Winter. Despite this, there are several animals that call it home. Polar Bears are the most recognizable Arctic Animal. They live most of their lives on the polar ice. The ice is attached to the land at different points. They are seen off the ice at times, but they prefer the ice where they fish and hunt for seals and other mammals. They are sometimes considered both land and marine animals, as they are amazing swimmers and can withstand the cold waters. Other land animals are the Arctic fox, the Arctic wolf, caribou (also known as reindeer), Arctic hare, lemmings, Arctic weasels, Arctic elk (also known as moose), Musk Oxen, and even Arctic Wooly Bear Moths. Sea animals that make the Arctic their home are Belugas whales, Narwhals, the Greenland shark, Walruses, Seals, Orcas (also known as Killer Whales), and various types of fish. The Arctic is also home to the Snowy Owl. The owl is one of the only birds that lives in the Arctic year-round. In the Summer, other birds migrate to the region. Bald Eagles, Terns, Puffins, Falcons, and Sandpipers are all seen in the Arctic during the Summer. One bird that is often mistaken as an Arctic animal is the penguin; they are not found in the Arctic, but rather in Antarctica.

POLAR BEAR MATH MAZE

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ARCTIC ANIMAL CROSSWORD PUZZLE Find the names of the Arctic Animals in the puzzle below.

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Greenland Shark

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Which Arctic Bird is shown here?

Color it after solving the puzzle.

Beluga Whale

Crossword Ans: 1)Puffin 2)Musk Ox 3)Bald Eagle 4)Snowy Owl 5)Caribou 6)Fox 7)Walrus 8)Seal 9)Narwhal 10)Elk 11)Polar Bear 12)Orca

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WEDNESDAY • NOVEMBER 17, 2021 TheWetumpkaHerald.com

Vol. 31, No. 46

SUBMITTED | THE HERALD

Brandi Parks, who lives in the Kent community, thought she might have to give up ownership of her beloved pet Chihuahua after the dog was injured -- but donations from social media helped pay for the dog’s surgery.

Community, social media fund local pet’s surgery

By CARMEN RODGERS Bureau Chief Brandi Parks, who lives in the Kent community, thought she might have to give up ownership of her beloved pet Chihuahua, Bella after the dog injured its eye and needed surgery that would cost more than $800.

“I let her go outside and she injured her eye somehow,” Brandi Parks said. “I’m not exactly sure what happened, but it looked bad and throughout the day it started getting worse.”

Parks took Bella to a local veterinarian where she learned that

Bella would need to have the eye removed.

Parks who had recently spent the family’s emergency pet fund to pay to have her other animals spayed and neutered could not afford the cost of the surgery.

“I was like, oh God, what am I going to do? I had just gotten my animals fixed and I don’t have that emergency bounce back now,” Parks said.

Desperate to save her fourlegged friend, Parks turned to social media for help. It didn’t take long before that help arrived.

Through donations from some

very thoughtful members of the community, Bella was able to have the surgery.

“Four people donated to her directly,” Parks said. “Then I had a group, Kash for K 9s, and over 35 people donated there to come up with the rest of money.”

Through Kash for k 9s, $550 was raised to help cover the cost of Bella’s surgery.

Dr. Mitchell, who is located in Tallassee, performed the surgery, and she also helped Parks with the cost of treating Bella.

“She donated the visit to me and the cone,” Parks said. “Which I was very

thankful for.”

While Bella was able to have surgery and return home this week, there was a brief period of time when Parks wasn’t sure if the surgery was possible, and she had prepared herself for the worse.

“I was in tears because I was willing to surrender her because I could not afford the medical treatment,” Parks said.

Thankfully, Parks did not have to surrender Bella, and, today, the dog is home resting comfortably.

“I am overwhelmed with joy.

I was able to keep my dog. I

really appreciate them,” Parks said. “I’m not really good with words. I appreciate everyone who donates to an animal in need because that’s my passion.”

Bella has been with Parks for the past 6 months.

“Bella chose us,” Parks said.

Parks has 6 pets, including Bella, but she also tries to help other animals that may need a forever home.

“I save animals and I adopt them out,” Parks said.

When Parks isn’t saving animals, she is a busy wife and mom of four children.

Presidential turkey pardon an annual tradition

By TOM EMERY Each year just before Thanksgiving, the President ceremoniously pardons a turkey, a light-hearted moment in his otherwise grueling schedule. The tradition is traced to Abraham Lincoln, who wrote a pardon at the behest of his youngest son, Tad, in 1863.

Though the origin is debated, many researchers believe that Lincoln was the first to bestow a Presidential pardon on a turkey, thus saving it from the dinner table.

The reprieve, though, was actually issued at Christmas.

In late 1863, the Lincolns received a turkey as a gift, and though the bird was intended for Christmas dinner, nine-year-old Tad, an animal lover, had other ideas. He made a pet of the bird, which he named Jack, and taught the bird to follow him around the White House grounds.

On Christmas Eve, the President tried to tell his son that the bird would become the family dinner. Upset, Tad reportedly cried, “I can’t help it. He’s a good turkey, and I don’t want him killed.” Lincoln gave in and wrote out a pardon on a card, which he

handed to his son to appease him.

“Tad was begging for the turkey’s life,” said Dr. Wayne Temple, an accomplished Lincoln scholar who recently retired as Deputy Director of the Illinois State Archives in Springfield. “Lincoln was always looking for something to amuse the children, so he pardoned the turkey.”

The President’s playfulness reflected other episodes with his children. In 1861, he had written a pardon for a soldier doll, also named Jack, that Tad and older brother Willie (who died the next February) had sentenced to death.

In 1997, Bill Clinton referenced Lincoln’s story in ceremonies to pardon a sixty-pounder named Willis. George W. Bush also made reference to Lincoln’s pardon in 2001.

“Lincoln is probably the only President with the sense of humor to pardon a turkey,” laughed Temple. “Other Presidents have been more serious-minded, but that’s how Lincoln could be.”

Some of Lincoln’s successors have shown less inclination. After President Obama’s first turkey pardon in 2009, one commentator found that the chief execu-

tive “did not seem all that thrilled with his role” Seven years before, when a female turkey – a thirty-pound gobbler named Katie – was pardoned for the first time, G. W. Bush absentmindedly twice called the bird “he.”

While many researchers credit Lincoln as the first President to issue a turkey pardon, others cite Harry S. Truman, who was the first to receive a gift bird from the National Turkey Federation in 1947.

However, officials at the Truman Presidential Library in Missouri have found no evidence of any pardons given by Truman to a turkey.

His successor, Dwight D. Eisenhower, ate each of the birds given to him during his eight years in office. Four days before his assassination in 1963, John F. Kennedy offhandedly said of a 55-pound gift turkey, “we’ll let this one grow.”

The first President on record to deliver a pardon was Ronald Reagan in 1987, allegedly to draw attention from reporters’ questions on the Iran-Contra affair. No turkeys were spared the following year, but in 1989, Reagan’s successor, George H.W. Bush, instituted the pardon as an

annual rite.

Two turkeys are normally chosen for the ceremony, one serving as an alternate, to stand in if the first bird cannot fulfill the duties. In 2008, Bush pardoned the backup, Pumpkin, after the top turkey, Pecan, came down sick the night before the ceremony.

In recent years, reprieved turkeys have been sent to various locations in Virginia, including George Washington’s estate at Mount Vernon and a place in Fairfax County called Frying Pan Park. From 2005-09, the turkeys were flown first-class to Disneyland to serve as grand marshals of Disney’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Today, the annual ceremony to pardon the turkey usually lasts a few minutes and provides a prime photo opportunity for the President and members of his family.

The White House frequently invites children to join the ceremony, adding to the holiday festivities.

Tom Emery is a freelance writer and historical researcher from Carlinville, Ill. He may be reached at 217-710-8392 or ilcivilwar@yahoo.com.