SPORTS, PAGE B1
INSIDE,
ECLECTIC, PAGE B6
Doctor’s Day celebrated
O’Neal preparing for a successful spring
Moms and daughters create memories over tea
Dedicated to the Growth and Prosperity of the Greater Tallassee Area
TALLASSEETRIBUNE.COM
VOL. 126, NO. 13
MARCH 27, 2024
$1.00
Elmore County kennel fined in dog abuse case By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor Are missing or stolen pets being used for animal testing in Elmore County? According to documents from USDA, it might have happened. Inspectors have dropped by the Blue Ridge Kennels on Rifle Range Road over the years and started noting issues such as malnutrition, inade-
quate facilities and repeated lack of veterinary care starting in 2020. The facility has been cited more than 80 times since then, and this has attracted the attention of People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA). “Blue Ridge Kennel really needs to do the right thing,” PETA vice president of laboratory investigations cases Dr. Alka Chandna said. “They just need to get out of the business
and let these dogs have a second chance.” A 2022 USDA report noted the facility didn’t have necessary documentation showing where the animals came from. “The facility acquired no less than three dogs under false pretenses,” an inspector’s report said. “...Facility records show that the facility has
CLIFF WILLIAMS | TPI
See ABUSE, Page A6
Blue Ridge Kennel has been cited numerous times by the USDA over the last two years for the care of dogs in its care as part of animal testing for the companion pet industry.
Main Street could be coming to Tallassee By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
FIRE DESTROYS TALLASSEE PRODUCE STAND By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
T
allassee commuters were caught by surprise early Monday morning on Gilmer Avenue as flames were noticed at the Durham Produce Stand. “We got the call about 5:40 a.m.,” Tallassee fire chief Eric Jones said. “It was fully engulfed when we arrived.” Firefighters were able to quickly bring the blaze under control. The barn-like structure was still standing but most of the structure was affected by fire. Freezers and
other refrigeration equipment was destroyed in the fire. No injuries were reported
Business owners in downtown Tallassee are looking to make the area vibrant again. They are investigating Main Street to see how the organization can help revitalize the area. Main Street Alabama has helped com-
munities such as Wetumpka, Opelika, LaFayette and Alexander City. “The businesses of downtown came together and decided we need to form our own entity so we can start promoting downtown Tallassee,” Grove Station owner Corrie Sid See COMING, Page A6
A little spring fun with an Easter flare air castle was the target of children. They quickly slipped off their shoes and Children of Tallassee climbed in bouncing to will surely remember the their hearts delight. Within day the bouncy house moments, the house started came down. to slouch, and the children But fear not, it was only escaped. a temporary setback. Minutes later Tallassee Just as the doors opened recreation director Eric to the Tallassee Recreation See FUN, Page A6 Department a big bouncy By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
in the fire. As of presstime, the cause of the fire was unknown.
CLIFF WILLIAMS | TPI
TOP: Fire severely damaged Durham Produce stand on Gilmer Avenue Monday morning. Members of the Tallassee Fire Department were paged out about 5:40 a.m. to extinguish the blaze. ABOVE: Members of the Tallassee Fire Department roll up a hose used to extinguish a fire on Gilmer Avenue Monday morning. Firefighters were paged out about 5:40 a.m. to a blaze at Durham Produce stand.
CLIFF WILLIAMS | TPI
Children react to a deflating bouncy house at the Tallassee Recreation Center Saturday. The children were attending a fun morning of activities hosted by the Tallassee Recreation Department. No children were harmed and were soon bouncing again.
Today’s
Weather
76 48 High
CONTACT US
Low
THURS: HIGH 68 LOW 41
334-567-7811 Fax: 334-567-3284 USPS 681-260
Not ready to run with the big dogs?
You don’t have to. Small budget advertising can work to your advantage.
Call 256-234-4281