SUBMITTED | TPI
Reeltown native Angel Thornell was diagnosed with leukemia
Jan. 8. She and her family have been traveling back and forth to Birmingham getting her treatment. The Reeltown community will have a benefit for Thornell on March 22.
By ABIGAIL MURPHY Multimedia Reporter
By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
Thornell went back home but she kept
See RALLIES, Page A5
The phrase, “If you need anything let me know” runs deep in Reeltown. Angel Thornell was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia in January. Their whole family had come down with a virus and Thornell was not recovering like the rest. She went to the emergency room and was diagnosed with strep throat.
By MELODY RATHEL
Multimedia Reporter
The wait is over.
The City of Tallassee City Council finally awarded a bid for upgrades to be done at the Tallassee Water Treatment Plant. Tallassee Mayor Sarah Hill said the Tallassee City Council has been in discussion about awarding a bid for several months. Now, the council has awarded a bid for less than it initially thought.
“I’m so happy that we’re going to get this done, and get it done at a cheaper rate than what we expected,” Hill said. “Last year, I told you guys that we got a grant from the state for
about $584,000, and the city was going to have to match that $584,000. It was a 50/50 grant to get the pipe gallery at the water treatment plant updated and fixed.”
After a filter at the plant stopped working last October, the council began looking for grants to get it updated and fixed, Hill said. Just five months later, the council awarded a bid to Rehab Construction Co. for $557,145.65. The bid must also be conditionally approved by the Alabama Department of Environmental Management. In other infrastructural discussion, the council approved a resolution to
See AWARDS, Page A5
Hughey receives Lifetime Award from chamber
By MELODY RATHEL Multimedia Reporter
Living in a place you love is a dream of many, but loving the place you live is a dream Fred Randall Hughey has achieved. While Tallassee native
Fred Randall Hughey loves being a resident of Tallassee, he has gone above and beyond to make Tallassee a place he wants to live. So much so, he has now received all of the awards presented by the Tallassee Chamber of Commerce after
receiving the Lifetime Award. Born and raised in the Tallassee area, Hughey has been involved in the community his entire life. From quarterback and captain of the Reeltown High School football team in high school
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TALLASSEE POLICE DEPARTMENT
MARCH 16
• A noise complaint was reported on Third Avenue.
• Assistance was given to a motorist on Lower Tuskegee Road.
• A tree was reported in the roadway on Indian Trail.
• A white female was arrested on Sims Avenue.
• A civil dispute was reported on Gilmer Avenue.
• A welfare check was conducted on Tallassee Highway.
• Criminal mischief was reported on Ashurst Avenue.
• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Gilmer Avenue.
• Debris was reported in the roadway on Jordan Avenue and Third Avenue.
• A noise complaint was reported on East Patton Street.
• A domestic dispute was reported on Gilmer Avenue.
MARCH 15
• Debris was reported in the roadway on Gilmer Avenue.
• A domestic dispute was reported on Gilmer Avenue.
• A suspicious person was reported on Gilmer Avenue.
• A missing juvenile was reported on Ashurst Avenue.
• Trespassing was reported on Magnolia Street.
MARCH 14
• Assistance was given during a medical call on Barnett Boulevard.
• Assistance was given to a citizen on Barnett Boulevard.
• Reckless driving was reported on Hickory Street.
• Trespassing was reported on Laurel Street.
• A welfare check was conducted on Freeman Avenue.
• Assistance was given to a motorist on Gilmer Avenue.
• A welfare check was conducted on Hunters Ridge.
• A private property motor vehicle accident was reported on Freeman Avenue.
• A Black male was arrested on Barnett Boulevard.
• Suspicious activity was reported on South Tallassee Drive and South Wesson Street.
• A noise complaint was reported on Gilmer Avenue.
• A Black male was arrested on Barnett Boulevard.
• Theft was reported on Notasulga Road and Gilmer Avenue.
• A fight in progress was reported on Gilmer Avenue.
• Assistance was given to a motorist on Gilmer Avenue.
• Animal control was requested on Gilmer Avenue.
• A domestic dispute was reported on Preer Street and Gilmer Avenue.
• Reckless driving was reported on Jordan Avenue.
• An arrest was made on U.S. Highway 231.
MARCH 13
• Suspicious activity was reported on Patterson Street and Azalea Street.
MARCH 12
• A domestic incident was reported on Hickory Street.
• A noise complaint was reported on Herd Street.
• Menacing was reported on Mott Lane.
• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Mott Lane.
• Suspicious activity was reported on Gilmer Avenue.
MARCH 11
• Assistance was given to a citizen on Barnett Boulevard.
• Assistance was given to a citizen on Main Street and Stanfield Street.
• An abandoned vehicle was reported on Macedonia Road.
• Reckless driving was reported on McArthur Street and Herren Street.
• Unauthorized use of a vehicle was reported on Rickey Lane.
• Assistance was given during a medical call on First Avenue.
• A motor vehicle accident with no injuries was reported on Gilmer Avenue.
• A suspicious person was reported on Gilmer Avenue.
• A civil disturbance was reported on First Avenue.
• A private property motor vehicle accident was reported on Gilmer Avenue.
• Harassment was reported on Third Avenue.
• Assistance was given to a motorist on Highway 229.
• A juvenile complaint was reported on Gilmer Avenue.
• A motor vehicle accident was reported on Highway 229.
• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Ashurst Bar Road.
• Assistance was given to another agency on Second Avenue.
• Trespassing was reported on Cotton Ridge Road.
• A suspicious person was reported on Jordan Avenue. MARCH 10
• Assistance was given to a motorist on Gilmer Avenue.
• Animal control was requested on Gilmer Avenue.
• A verbal altercation was reported on Azalea Street.
• A noise complaint was reported on Third Avenue and Dorman Avenue.
• Fraudulent use of a credit or debit card was reported on Upper River Road.
• Animal control was requested on Grimes Street.
• Assistance was given to a citizen on Freeman Avenue.
• A motor vehicle accident with no injuries was reported on Gilmer Avenue.
• Harassment was reported on Gilmer Avenue.
• Assistance was given to a motorist on Rickey Lane.
• Harassment and criminal mischief was reported on Wall Street.
• Theft was reported on Gilmer Avenue.
• A disorderly subject was reported on Gilmer Avenue.
• Assistance was given to a motorist on Indian Trail.
• Assistance was given to a citizen on South Dubois Street. March 9
• Assistance was given to another agency on Highway 14.
• A fight was reported on Friendship Road.
TPI STAFF Staff Report
Desmond Chrishawn Howard, 31, of Elmore County, was sentenced to 96 months in prison.
According to a press release from the United States Department of Justice, Howard received this sentence by a federal judge after he pleaded guilty to federal gun and drug charges, Acting United States Attorney Kevin Davidson said. Additionally, the judge ordered Howard serve three years of supervised release following his prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
According to his plea agreement and other court records, on June 13, 2024, deputies with the Elmore
County Sheriff’s Office responded to a domestic disturbance call reporting a physical altercation at a residence in the Town of Elmore involving a female and a male, identified as Howard. While deputies were en route, the female told law enforcement she had left the residence and Howard was following her in another vehicle. The release said Deputies spotted Howard’s vehicle and attempted a traffic stop but Howard refused to stop. During the pursuit, deputies observed Howard throw two objects from his car window then he returned to his residence in Elmore; deputies took Howard into custody without further incident.
When investigators returned to
the area where Howard discarded the two objects, they found a handgun and a glove containing suspected dimethylpentylone or “molly.”
According to the press release, laboratory analysis later confirmed the drug to be dimethylpentylone. Howard has a previous felony conviction and is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition. On Nov. 20, 2024, Howard pleaded guilty to possession of a controlled substance with the intent to distribute and possessing a firearm after being convicted of a felony offense.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and Elmore County Sheriff’s Office investigated this case, which Assistant United States Attorney J. Patrick Lamb prosecuted.
By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
School leaders in Tallassee are aiming to improve test scores and state report cards. Students and staff have been using QuantHub since the beginning of the school year to learn data analytics skills through quick, tailored lessons.
“It integrates seamlessly with existing curricula and state courses of study across various subjects, including mathematics, science, computer programming and career exploration,” principal Brittany Spencer said. “Additionally, it aligns with data literacy standards and standardized tests like the ACT, aiming to improve academic performance through a micro-learning approach.”
For 15 to 20 minutes a day students work in QuantHub. It adapts to students’ skill levels to address
gaps and accelerate learning based on their strengths. In QuantHub, students earn “neurons” by answering questions in assessments and study activities. The
number of neurons awarded depends on two factors. One being the accuracy of the answer where correct answers yield more neurons, while
By REA CORD HSEC Executive Director
This is National Poison Prevention Week and just like us humans, our pets also need protection from accidental poisoning. The Pet Poison Helpline is a valuable resource and below are the most common poison risks to our pets (and also to children):
1. Over-the-counter medications such as Ibuprofen, Naproxen, cold medications and herbal supplements. Make sure to keep all medications out of paws’ reach and check with a veterinar-
ian before giving any new medication (prescription or not) to your pet.
2. Human prescription medications such as ADHD medications, antidepressants and heart medications are in many homes and need to be kept out of reach of pets.
3. Food items and ingredients such as xylitol, grapes, raisins, onions and garlic.
4. Chocolate! Keep candy and baked goods away from your pets.
5. Veterinary products mostly due to accidental or unintentional exposures. Many pet medications are
flavored so pets may mistake these for treats. Giving medicine meant for one pet accidentally to another happens, so make sure to KNOW what you are giving your pet. And remember that a “childproof container” does not mean it is pet-proof!
6. Household items including paint, glue and cleaning products are often too easily accessible.
7. Rodenticides & Insecticides. Remember that pets, along with rodents, find baits very tasty. Rat or mouse bait ingestion can be deadly for our pets and today’s products are even
Reese is a 1-yearold female Pit/Lab mix who weighs about 50 pounds. This incredibly sweet girl is housetrained and good with children, dogs and cats. She is a big lap dog who loves to cuddle, give kisses and get tummy rubs. She wants nothing more than to be with people and if left alone in a yard, she will escape to go find her people. So Reese just needs to be in the house with her people and no issues. The Humane Society of Elmore County’s adoption fees are $100 for dogs and $50 for cats under 1 year old. Cats over 1 can be adopted by approved adopters for
By TYLER RALEY Shelby County Reporter
Standing in front of a local high school marketing and media class, grabbing the attention of students prove to be a challenge for the special speaker.
“Hmm hmm,” chimes in the teacher, clearing her throat to get the attention of the students.
“Chromebooks down, phones down. You shouldn’t have either out.”
As the speaker continues for the majority of the class period, oddly talking about the importance of phones in media and marketing, that same interruption happens at least three more times, which still doesn’t account for the amount of time the students spent looking down at their devices during the
presentation.
While this was one example at one local high school, it’s a common trend across schools right now, and the question becomes, is it a problem?
About a year after that example, standing on a stage in front of a crowd of onlookers on Wednesday, Jan. 8 at the Shelby County Chamber’s 2025 Legislative Preview Luncheon, Rep. Leigh Hulsey spoke her mind on the issue, previewing legislation that could help.
Just a short few weeks ago on Feb. 4, the 2025 Alabama State Legislative Session began meeting in Montgomery, discussing a number of potential bills that could change many aspects of life in the state should they get passed.
See BAN, Page A6
partially correct responses earn fewer. The other factor is through question difficulty where more challenging questions offer higher neuron rewards for correct answers.
“This system encourages students to tackle complex problems and reinforces learning through accurate responses,” Spencer said. “Neurons in QuantHub serve as a gamification element, acting as points earned through correct or partially correct answers in assessments and study activities.”
In January, Kristi Davis’ fourth-period class was the highest performing class in the state in
deadlier than those of years ago.
8. Insecticides include items such as ant baits, bug sprays and yard products. Make sure to read all labels and keep your pets out of the affected area when using any of these products.
9. Indoor and outdoor plants, as well as bouquets, can all be sources of potential problems for pets and many beautiful plants and flowers are deadly for our pets if ingested.
10. Garden products like fertilizers, herbicides and soil enhancements can prove irresistible to a playful pet so watch your pets
a fee of their choosing. This adoption fee covers the mandatory spay or neuter, basic immunizations, deworming, microchip, heartworm check for dogs, rabies vaccination if old enough and a free health exam with your participating veterinarian. If you are interested in meeting Reese or any of the pets at HSEC, the first step is to fill out an adoption application online. Once approved, you will be contacted by someone from the humane society. HSEC is located at 255 Central Plank Road in Wetumpka. The phone number is 334-567-3377 and the website is www.elmorehumane.org.
QuantHub and was rewarded with a pizza party.
Going forward the system offers students benefits to enhance learning and test scores. The program teaches skill mastery and offers progress tracking.
“Neurons serve as indicators of a student’s proficiency in various topics,” Spencer said. “Accumulating neurons reflects consistent engagement and progress, helping students and educators identify areas of strength and those needing improvement.”
Earning neurons allows QuantHub and educators to recognize and reward active learners.
“For instance, students in Alabama who demonstrate significant engagement by mastering skills and earning neurons are
when you are out working on the lawn or garden.
WHAT TO DO IF YOUR DOG OR CAT IS POISONED?
1. Remove your pet from the area.
2. Check to make sure your pet is safe: breathing and acting normally.
3. Collect a sample of the ingested item if possible.
4. Do NOT give any home antidotes.
5. Do NOT induce vomiting without consulting a vet or Pet Poison Helpline.
6. Call the Pet Poison Helpline at 855-764-7661.
If veterinary attention is necessary, contact &/or take your pet to your veterinarian or emergency veterinary clinic immediately.
Rea Cord is the executive director of the Humane Society of Elmore County.
eligible for scholarships of up to $500 to attend summer STEM camps or programs at local colleges and universities,” Spencer said. Skills developed while earning neurons, particularly in data interpretation and analysis, align with components of standardized tests like the SAT and ACT.
“This alignment aids students in enhancing their problem-solving abilities and data literacy, which are crucial for these assessments,” Spencer said. “By actively participating in QuantHub and accumulating neurons, students not only track their learning progress but also unlock valuable educational opportunities and better prepare for future academic challenges.”
CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
There is nothing grumpy about Grumpy Dog. The
been a staple of downtown
2014 and is a favorite of many including
While the food is good, the company of fellow diners is awesome and you might even get a history lesson or two.
My standard order is the special of two Grumpy Dogs with Zapp’s Voodoo chips and a Dr. Pepper. I normally don’t have to say much. Staff will almost always look at me and ask, “Two Grumpys?”
I acknowledge them and they quickly assemble my order with a good hotdog and bun with a slathering of yellow mustard, onions and homemade chili piled on top. Most often I take a seat in the dining room or under the canopy. Doing so can take you back down memory lane.
I was reminded of that recently as I got in line behind Wetumpka Mayor Jerry Willis. We sat in the dining room and rather than get caught up on city business, I got a history lesson.
I knew Grumpy Dog was originally a service station. The canopy would have covered gas pumps at one point in time. The dining room was a little different.
“Your’re sitting where the grease rack was,” Willis told me.
But there was no more automobile grease, just the right amount to make a really good hotdog with chili. The menu is filled with an extensive variety of hotdogs topped almost anyway one can imagine.
The mayor and I talked for a while. He was sitting where the parts rack once was.
See HISTORY, Page A5
Local government needs transparency. Period.
While it’s important to have transparency in big government, there are a lot more checks and balances on a federal level than there are at the local level. That’s where a local newspaper comes in.
Right now, we are celebrating Sunshine Week, which is meant to shine a light on the importance of public records and government transparency. Without local newspapers trying to get to the bottom of certain issues, there aren’t a lot of “watchdogs,” so to speak. Throughout our three-county coverage area at Tallapoosa Publishers Inc., we cover a wide variety of local governments. From the bigger cities like Wetumpka, Tallassee and Alexander City to the smaller towns like Jackson’s Gap, Camp Hill and Coosada, there are tons of different governments we work with. We cover county commissions as well as town and city councils. Some are much more easily accessible than others.
We give props to those who post their agendas online prior to the meetings — these are typically signs of a more transparent gov-
attached to the email. Announcements will appear within 10 days in The Tribune, The Herald or The Observer.
These days, nothing grabs attention faster than a rumor of government conspiracy. Two new documentaries attempt to shed light on events of 1969 and 1970 that are still mysterious all these years later.
CHAOS: THE MANSON MURDERS (NETFLIX)
The gruesome Tate-LaBianca “Helter Skelter” murders of August 1969 have been well-documented. Charles Manson’s ‘family’ cult killed at least nine people.
The fact that they occurred the same week as Woodstock, the ultimate peace and love festival, made them all the more shocking.
Filmmaker Errol Morris has chased unanswerable questions in the past with films such as “The Thin Blue Line,” which helped get an innocent man off death row.
“Chaos” uses author Tom O’Neill’s book as its foundation and ends up taking the viewer down even more rabbit holes as it investigates the mysterious life and influence of Charles Manson.
O’Neill challenges the official account of the Helter Skelter killings and opines that Manson was part of a top secret CIA mind-control experiment. Morris takes these theories and weaves a story that involves the CIA, LSD, Jack Ruby, and Vincent Bugliosi – the prosecutor whose bestselling book was for many years the official chronicle of the murder trials.
Music plays an important role in this retelling of the Charles Manson story. Manson had been a failed musician but had caught record producer Terry Melcher (son of Doris Day) and Beach Boy Dennis Wilson in his web of mystery. Manson was a charismatic leader and, after a stint in prison, became a part of the hippie movement in California and set about gathering like-minded followers. They created a commune at the Spahn dude ranch, completely isolated from the world, where they dropped acid and stared at campfires – all the while, their leader preparing them for the most evil acts anyone could have imagined.
Nobody knew how to even process such evil. Manson’s followers didn’t just murder people, they brutally tortured them in unimag-
ernment. We also give props to those who are regularly in touch with our reporters and editors, showing they are willing to work with the public.
See, journalists are truly just a service to the public. We work for the readers — the taxpayers. Although we are not elected, it is our job to cover and write about the important issues affecting our towns and communities. Without the elected officials’ cooperation though, it becomes very difficult — if not impossible. We are often given story tips that prove extremely difficult to investigate due to public officials being close-lipped. As journalists, we are simply messengers and without a message to deliver, it’s extremely hard to do our jobs.
for being cut from newspapers. Currently, certain items, such as public hearings on rezoning and annexations, must be published by local governments in the county newspaper of record. But those are threatened to be moved to an online-only platform, making them even more difficult for citi zens to access.
Ultimately, a newspaper is here to serve those citizens and without public records and transparency, we can only serve our readers but so much. It comes down to: If there’s nothing to hide, then why not be open about what’s going on in local government?
officials to work with local jour nalists, even on a small scale. Community journalism is, at its finest, the most important type of public service, and we need local officials to understand the media is not “out to get anyone.” We are simply here to serve the citizens who elected them.
That’s where Sunshine Week comes in. It’s key to reiterate the importance of local government transparency, especially when public notices are on the table
inable ways and used Beatles song lyrics as their reasoning. The documentary does not shy away from showing the murder scenes and real-time testimony of the perpetrators. It is truly terrifying. For fans of true crime documentaries, this is a must-watch, but it won’t provide any answers; in fact, the government conspiracy angle was more intriguing before I watched the movie.
WHAT HAPPENED TO BLOOD, SWEAT, & TEARS? (AMAZON PRIME)
Flash forward a few months to the spring of 1970. One of the top recording acts of the day was the brass-rock hybrid Blood, Sweat, & Tears. Originally a project led by Al Kooper on its first album, the band on its eponymous second album morphed into a tougher yet more radio-friendly version. BS&T were at the vanguard of the whole horn band movement that also included Chicago and the Ides of March.
This film by John Scheinfeld features footage from a never-seen documentary. Eleven performances were filmed in 26 days, all behind the Iron Curtain. BS&T were one of the most popular rock bands in the world in 1970. They won the Grammy for Best Album. That second album is a virtual greatest hits: “And When I Die,” “You’ve Made Me So Very Happy,” “More and More,” “God Bless the Child,” and “Spinning Wheel” are all iconic recordings that have stood the test of time. These songs are powered by front man and vocalist David Clayton-Thomas, who added incredible energy to the brass-rock stylings of the band.
Yet, the story of what happened to Blood, Sweat & Tears is, in a way, a rock and roll tragedy. David Clayton-Thomas was from Canada, where he had been a troublemaker for years. Even in BS&T, he could still be wayward – such as when he threatened his girlfriend with a gun. U.S. officials denied him a
managing editor of Tallapoo sa Publishers Inc. She can be reached at 434-962-9420
New documentaries examine government’s early ’70s
green card and were ready to kick him out of the country, unless the band accepted a deal.
President Richard Nixon, interested in building credibility with the counterculture, had signed off on a cultural-exchange tour sponsored by the State Department. In an arrangement that saved Clayton-Thomas from being deported, Blood, Sweat, & Tears agreed to become the first rock band to play in eastern bloc countries behind the Iron Curtain and have the performances recorded.
To the fans of the band, making a deal with the Secretary of State, William P. Rogers, was like making a deal with the devil. This was at the height of the anti-Vietnam War protests, civil unrest in cities, and the generation gap. BS&T had notably been apolitical and had not made any real statements for or against the war, like many of their contemporaries. This made them a safe choice to send to Yugoslavia, Romania, and Poland.
There was indeed a powerful reason behind the tour. The United States wanted to open up détente with eastern Europe, seeing this as a moral obligation. BS&T were both cool as well as conservative, and the band members were too interested in being musicians than being household names or making political statements. The concert footage in dour governmental stone buildings is truly mesmerizing as the crowds get whipped into a frenzy, then have dogs unleashed on them to calm the audience back down.
Instead of being celebrated back home, the band returns to find a media that is downright hostile, from a combative press conference to having bags of horse manure thrown at them on stage during a performance. Rolling Stone magazine decries their partnership with The Man. The hits stopped coming. So, to answer the question in the title: what happened to Blood, Sweat, & Tears is that they cared so much about the music, that trying to be friendly with the government got them cancelled by the very culture of which they had been a part.
Michael Bird is a music teacher at Faulkner University.
By MELODY RATHEL Multimedia Reporter
A family-owned business is more than a commercial venture — it’s a product of tradition, community and memories made with loved ones.
This is true for WTLV and the Tallassee Times, a radio station and newspaper business that first got its start in 1954. Seven decades later, the business was named Business of the Year by the Tallassee Chamber of Commerce.
Owner Michael Butler said his grandfather Ned first put WTLV on the air to keep Tallassee locals in the know through radio. Throughout its existence, the radio station has been managed by the Butler family.
“This is the third-generation at the radio station,” Michael said. “My dad worked here, my wife and I work here and our children are involved
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in it.”
Since the beginning, the goal of the radio station was to serve the Tallassee community through radio and community involvement. From sports to local events, WTLV covers all things Tallassee.
“We are a local station that continues to serve the community,” Michael said. “We’ve done that for 70 years, and we’ve done a local morning show for 25 years, which I still do today. We do Tallassee sports — we do football, baseball and other sports too. We’ve done every football game in some capacity since we came on the air 70 years ago. Back then we recorded it and played it back on Saturday mornings; we didn’t do it live because the station was a daytime only station.”
Since Michael has taken ownership, the radio station has become a 24-hour station and
to now serving as a city council member, Tallassee is ingrained in Hughey. There was a period of time, however, where Hughey was not in Tallassee. He received a diploma from a technical school in Sarasota, Florida, where he received his radio engineers license. Although he moved away briefly, he brought his new credentials back home to Alabama. He worked in Montgomery, Union Springs and eventually came right back home to Tallassee where
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create a line item for repairs in the water department.
“Several years ago, the City of Tallassee bought some
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included various forms of media such as podcasts, websites and video.
Despite the continuous changes in the radio industry, Michael adapts to continue serving the Tallassee community.
“Things have changed in this business,” Michael said. “I would say the Genesis of every -
he built his own radio station, WACQ in Tallassee. “We’ve been in business for 46 years now,” Hughey said. “Part of your obligation of being granted a license for a radio station is community service and that’s what we’ve tried to do. We’ve tried to be involved in the community.” Through WACQ, Hughey has given back to the community in several ways. On the local level, WACQ has helped the community through fundraising, participating in local events, partnering with local organizations and more. As an involved long-time member of the Talisi Historical Society, Hughey feels a strong responsibility for preserving
water lines near Taylor Road,” Hill said.
“Those have become an issue as of late, so we’re going to open a line item for repairs in the water department, and I’d like to go ahead and put $20,000 into that for right now, just to address some of
getting weaker. Thornell returned to the emergency room and that’s when a leukemia diagnosis was on the table. After staying overnight at Tallassee hospital, she was sent to Birmingham by ambulance the next day.
During her stay at Birmingham, Thornell was diagnosed with leukemia and stayed for roughly 46 days in the hospital. She was home for a week and a half before going back to Birmingham for consolidation chemotherapy.
Thornell will continue that treatment until she can get a bone marrow transplant. The hospital found a match with hopes of doing the transplant at the end of April.
After the bone marrow transplant, Thornell will need to be in the hospital for 30 days and will need to stay
thing is still the same though — to serve this community, which we’ve been able to do with great people in our service area.”
WTLV covers primarily Tallassee; however, it does cover some areas around Lake Martin, Montgomery and Pike Road.
Although honored to
historical structures throughout Tallassee. So much so, he has helped raise nearly $200,000 to help pay off the debt on the West Side Mill properties.
Hughey has also been involved with restoring the National Guard Armory on Gilmer Avenue.
“The most recent thing we’ve done is we rebuilt the bell tower there,” Hughey said. “We just want to preserve everything down there because there is one building down there that is the second oldest stone structure in Alabama.”
Hughey also serves as the commander of the Sons of Confederate Veterans organization. His local involvement has
the issues.”
Hill said following a recent storm, there was a water leak from those water lines, resulting in multiple homes without water until it was repaired. In other business, the council approved changing regular
near the Birmingham area for 70 days thereafter with two to three appointments a week. Her daughter-in-law, Jennifer Spain, will become her fulltime caregiver during that time while taking a break from work.
Thornell is also a government employee who works from home. This past month has been especially difficult with government job uncertainties, but she has worked some the last few weeks while receiving treatment. Once Thornell goes in for the bone marrow transplant, she won’t be able to work for a period of time.
After the transplant date, Thornell will need to go to appointments for about a year, but they will gradually decrease in frequency. Spain said all of the family is from Reeltown, grew up there and went to school there.
Thornell and her husband, Clark, are also members of First Baptist Church of Reeltown.
While Spain has been the main
receive this award, this award is more than just a prize for Michael.
“My father just passed away this past January,” Michael said. “I wish he could have been here to see WTLV win the award, but I feel like this award went to him. I would like to attribute to him for what he’s done and been part of.”
extended to the chamber, his church and most recently, the City of Tallassee City Council. Representing Ward 7, Hughey is in his first term as a City of Tallassee councilmember.
“I wanted to serve in order to try to improve the quality of life,” Hughey said. “I’ve attended every city council meeting because I’ve reported on them for the last 46 years.”
While attending council meetings, Hughey felt like someone needed to step in for the betterment of Tallassee, so when he saw the opportunity, he took it.
“With the council we have and the mayor, we’ve done so many wonderful things,”
council meeting days from the second and fourth Tuesday of every month to the second and fourth Monday. Because of this change, there will not be a second March meeting, and the council will meet again on the second Monday of April.
Michael plans to continue the family tradition at WTLV; his son does a radio show during football season, and he has played music for the radio in the past. Because the radio station has always been part of Michael’s life, he is especially grateful WTLV received this award.
Hughey said. “We’ve redone the sewage, redone the gas lines and we’re working on grants to upgrade the water filter plant. We’ve just been involved in so many positive things turning around in Tallassee.”
Now that Hughey has received the Lifetime Award, he has acquired every award given by the Tallassee Chamber of Commerce.
“My initial reaction was, ‘They must have run out of other people to give it to,’” Hughey said. “There’s so many other people that I know that are so deserving, but it’s a tremendous honor when you consider who else has been on that list. It’s just a great honor.”
IN OTHER ACTION, THE CITY OF TALLASSEE CITY COUNCIL:
• Approved minutes of the Feb. 25 work session and regular council meetings.
• Held promotions for police officers.
• Read a proclamation for the late Art Lamberth.
person traveling with Thornell to her appointments recently, it’s been a group effort. Thornell’s son, Travis, came to help and worked remotely for the short time he could before returning to California. Her other son and Spain’s husband, Jason, has helped with the caregiving when he is not at work. Thornell’s daughter Carrie Spain has also helped with the treatment process.
“We have had a lot of support from the church,” Thornell said. “They have watched over my husband and kept him fed. Everybody stepped up so big my family, my church family, my other relatives.”
Thornell’s husband had a stroke about a year ago. Clark is unable to work and also needs a caregiver himself. Their niece Alicia Diego has taken care of him every day. This has taken a weight off Thornell, knowing her husband is being cared for while she is away receiving treatment.
• Read an Arbor Day proclamation.
• Approved a resolution authorizing formal amendment to CDBG demolition grant.
• Ward 5 councilmember Terrel Brown was absent from the meeting.
Next Saturday, there will be a benefit for Thornell at Reeltown Baptist Church from 4 to 7 p.m. Individuals can purchase a spaghetti plate for $10 or two charity bingo cards for $20. Extra cards are $5 each.
The benefit will accept cash, checks, Venmo and Cashapp. The serving of plates will begin at 4 p.m. and bingo will begin at 5 p.m.
“It’s a small community but a big family,” Spain said. “We just hope everyone will come out and show support.” Spain added the last thing you want to think about when you are sick is finances and a little help really goes a long way. Reeltown has been so supportive already throughout this process and it shows what a blessing living in a small town can really be, Spain said.
For more information about the benefit, contact Spain at 334-8505386.
What I didn’t know was that the building has been a few different things over the years.
It’s been a garden center and sandwich shop as well. Willis recounted getting ferns, flowers and ham sandwich or two from the place. He should know as he operated a barbershop in downtown for years.
I have sat there in and out of Grumpy Dog countless times. I look out over the Hill, Bridge and Company Streets. I think back to when U.S. Highway 231 passed through town.
I ask myself how many travelers got their cars repaired here or got gas to go on to the mountains in the north or to the beach in the south.
It’s a path my father, grandfather and grandmother took many a time going to the family farm. My dad’s family hails from Jacksonville. My grandfather settled in south Alabama to teach after finishing Alabama Polytechnic Institute in Auburn, what is Auburn University today.
It’s a path less traveled now but thanks to the planning of many, downtown Wetumpka is alive again. Willis told me there are still many great things in store for Wetumpka.
I hope I get to tell those stories. Grumpy Dog also caters a lot of meals in the community. I love those events as I never go home hungry. I also hope to get to eat my two Grumpys, but my waistline is telling me to swap to Grumpy Dogs famous salads. There is always one on the menu to go along with a trip down memory lane.
Cliff Williams is the news editor of Tallapoosa Publishers Inc.’s Elmore County newspapers. He can be reached at cliff.williams@thewetumpkaherald.com. HISTORY Continued from A4
Among those was a pre-filed bill that will effectively ban the use of cell phones in schools, which Hulsey brought to the floor.
Cell phones have become a staple in schools since they became popular, but they have been a very dividing subject among students, parents and teachers. Hulsey, who represents House District 15 and was formerly a member on the Helena City Council, now looks to take charge in this debate and make a difference in the landscape of the up and coming generations.
The Freeing Our Classrooms of Unnecessary Screens for Safety Act looks to eliminate almost all use of cellular devices in schools with the hopes of creating better academic results, a decreasing number of mental health issues and better social interactions for students overall.
The F.O.C.U.S. Act was originally brought to the floor during
the 2024 session by Hulsey, with the same goals in mind as she has now, hoping to improve productivity and self-esteem for students in schools.
Hulsey attended an education policy conference prior to that time, where she took part in listening to discussions on how phones have negatively impacted the lives of kids from both a mental health perspective and an educational perspective.
“The data that was presented was just alarming,” Hulsey said. “I felt like once I had been presented with that information, that the responsible thing to do was to try and tackle the problem and hopefully give these kiddos a better chance for success in life.”
As Hulsey discussed in the Legislative Preview Luncheon, she crafted the bill, but it was ultimately killed last year due to the fact she did not have enough time to see it through.
Existing law states boards of education can allow students to carry devices while on school property. Should it be passed, this act would repeal that law. The act’s synopsis
states beginning in the 2026-2027 school year, students would not be allowed to use or operate a cellular device on campus during the entirety of the instructional day unless certain exceptions say otherwise, but goes on to say students may possess one on campus as long as it is turned off and stowed away safely.
Every school system has its own cell phone policy. However, as of now, most school systems, even in Shelby County, continue allowing students to possess personal devices on school grounds.
Pelham City Schools currently allows its students to carry their personal devices at school, but states they must be stored properly during learning hours. To guard against usage, the student code of conduct goes on to state, “When a student is found to be using his/her cell phone and/ or other personal digital device during the school day, the phone and/or other personal digital device will be taken from the student and given to a school administrator.”
The act also specifies students will receive instruction on
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the impacts of social media and training on its usage prior to the eighth grade.
There are a few exceptions to the appropriate usage of cellular devices. A primary reason for using a cellular device is if it is necessary according to a student’s accommodation plan or Individualized Education Program.
The bill also addresses questions on if cell phones can be used in dire situations. The act contains wording that when an emergency regarding health and safety occurs, phone usage is allowed. It also states they can be used for purposes as authorized in a wireless device policy.
According to Hulsey, while concerns have been raised from parents and others over the issue, she has voiced her assurance the bill covers what questions they may have, trying to cover all bases of the matter.
Outside of those guidelines, the act requires each local board of education in the state of Alabama create a policy addressing a student’s ability to access the internet on devices that are owned by the board.
THE IMPACTS
After Hulsey took in the information she was given at the education policy conference she attended, she began to research statistics on what cellular devices have done to students both mentally and physically.
Much of her data she found was linked to a study that looked at student adverse effects data changes since 2010, largely as a result of social media.
In regards to mental effects, it was found depression has increased 145% for girls and 161%, a very high rate in a 15-year period. Studies also found specifically in students who are in college, anxiety has increased 134% while ADHD has increased 72%.
The data was recorded by asking people about these conditions. Due to this method, the data has been challenged. As a result, the researchers took numbers for emergency room visits for selfharm and found visits for girls were up 188% and 48% for boys.
While it is a big difference, these statistics, when associated with anxiety and depression, line up with the psychiatric categories of internalizing and externalizing disorders— internalizing being taking those emotions and withdrawing from social engagement, while externalizing is projecting them outwards.
“Males more inherently are going to be externalizers and females are going to be internalizing,” Hulsey said. “Knowing that, it makes a little bit more sense when you’re looking at that particular piece of data when you look at self-harm.”
desires to get students back on an upward trend from a mental and physical standpoint as a whole, discussing how cell phones are causing the future of the up and coming generations to be in danger.
“What I’m really wanting to do is minimize distractions because they definitely hinder academic success, but also, this is impeding students’ ability to develop critical face-to-face communication skills,” Hulsey said. “These phones are not keeping them safe, they’re just not. That’s the truth — it’s a hard truth, but it is the truth. The other part is the distraction. It’s affecting how they are learning.”
According to statistical research, more than 50% of students receive more than 237 notifications per day. Hulsey has said as a result, 83% of teachers support an all-day phone-free policy.
In relation to that, the University of California conducted a study that saw when a student is focused and proceeds to get distracted, it takes an average of 23 minutes and 15 seconds to regain focus, which generally equates to about half of a class period.
“If you’ve got kids that are getting distracted multiple times in a single class, there’s no way they’re capable of maintaining a level of focus needed to retain the information that is being presented to them,” Hulsey said. Hulsey took all of this information and more and ultimately formatted a solution to the issues in the form of the bill that is currently on the floor in Montgomery. Should it pass, Hulsey believes citizens, especially those involved in education, will see a massive positive change in students’ behavior, emotions, academic performance and more. She especially expects kids to become less anxious and stressed, as it would take away from the stress of focusing on social media.
The bill would also cause schools in Shelby County to revamp their current phone policies to conform with the standards the bill sets, and ultimately, highly limit what students have access to should they gain access to any device during the instructional day.
THE PUSHBACK
With every matter that comes to the floor comes conflicting interests and pushback, and Hulsey has had plenty of it arise since the idea for this bill came about.
“People are definitely concerned about safety,” Hulsey said.
“If there is an emergency that is a dangerous emergency situation that is going on in school, parents want to be able to get in touch with their children.”
wanting to check on them as well.
She wants parents to know this bill addresses that possibility, which finds in the case of an emergency of a serious nature, students can use their phones.
Hulsey has also addressed the fact those with medical needs such as diabetes will be allowed to use their devices for monitoring as long as it is filed within their plans as a medical issue.
There has also been a major concern from parents they will not be able to address scheduling changes with their children while in school, an issue that already has an alternative in most schools even before this proposed bill.
“It’s the little one-off conversations that parents are used to having with their kids now while they’re at school, that they wouldn’t be able to have those anymore,” Hulsey said.
“Kids are just always worried they’re missing something nonstop. The only way to get rid of that anxiousness is to just get it away from them, which means that we’re going to have to go back to what we did in the past in some regards on that, and that is just calling the school.”
Hulsey said in her experience, though, she has not had a single teacher or board member go against the idea of having phones in schools, and educators are in full support of what this bill would do.
LETTING THE PEOPLE KNOW Should the F.O.C.U.S. Act completely pass, it will bring major change to the educational landscape around the state of Alabama, especially in Shelby County, where it will address many of the issues that some schools might have faced in recent memory.
The desire to take away phones in schools has varying opinions.
In polls conducted by the Shelby County Reporter on Facebook and Instagram, 63% were for phones being banned from the classroom on Facebook — an older demographic — and 89% were for phones being allowed in the classroom on Instagram — a younger demographic.
Hulsey made sure to emphasize if it does pass, there will be an adjustment process, but it will get easier and yield good results.
“When school systems implement this, it usually takes everyone about six weeks to get used to the changes,” Hulsey said. “Eventually, we’re going to get used to this and it will be a new norm and a healthy environment for our kids to be in.”
Hulsey also made it clear no matter what is going on at this current time, the floor is still listening to what people have to say, and she encourages people to voice their opinion on this massive piece of legislation.
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Hulsey also finds it alarming when looking at suicide rates for younger adolescents, ages 10-14, numbers were up 167% for girls and 97% for boys, knowing it is a huge concern for what is happening in today’s world.
With this bill, Hulsey
It is a matter that has become prevalent in Shelby County within the last decade, with separate instances of school threats for multiple local schools.
Hulsey has expressed to many she sympathizes with parents because she is one, and also understands if an emergency were to happen with her child’s school, she would be prone to
“We are still listening,” Hulsey said. “The bill itself is a living, breathing document that will probably continue to change as we dialogue through it. We’re not rushing this piece through. We are trying to make sure that we are listening, but also using the information to ensure that it is the best possible piece that we can put together.”
he Lord gave David victory wherever he went.” - 2 Samuel 8:6
We discover early in life that it’s more fun to win. A little experience helps us understand what the announcer meant when each Saturday on ABC’s Wide World of Sports, he spoke of “the thrill of victory, and the agony of defeat.”
Some little children get mad playing a game if they don’t win every time. The coaches and adults may say they don’t keep score when little kids are learning to play ball. But the competitive kids on the field or court do keep score; they know who won (or lost). It’s no compliment when others call you “Loser.” We want to be fans of the winning team and claim their victories as our own even if we never played the game.
The first ten chapters of 2 Samuel describe David’s success during the first years of his reign. The brave young
giant-killer had become a bold warrior and grown into a mighty king. The Scriptures say that his devotion to God was the key to his success. Twice in Chapter 8 the text says the Lord gave David victory wherever he went. Why was this the case with David, but not with his predecessor, Saul? Was God less powerful or less interested in Israel’s success while Saul was king? No, the difference was not in God, but in the two kings. Samuel told Saul, “But now your kingdom will not endure; the LORD has sought out a man after his own heart and appointed him leader of his people, because you have not kept the Lord’s command” (1 Samuel 13:14). Saul forfeited God’s help when he proudly rebelled against God’s will. In Romans 8, Paul asked several questions to strengthen our confidence and clarify our security in Christ. In the face of trouble, hardship, persecu -
tion, famine, nakedness or danger of the sword, he said, “No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us” (Romans 8:37). This text stresses that we can live like David, enjoying God’s help as we face life’s obstacles and battles. Just a few lines above, Paul posed this question: “If God is for us, who can be against us?” (Romans 8:31). He phrased in another way in Philippians: “I can do everything through him who gives me strength” (4:13).
In light of these verses, why do some Christians live victoriously while others founder and fall prey to the devil and the lusts that war against the soul (1 Peter 2:11)? Why do they lose time after time? The power to win is there. We must choose to appropriate that power by walking with God. When we refuse to follow God’s will, we forfeit the assurance of victory. Brothers and sisters in Christ
can encourage us. Preachers and teachers can exhort us to persist and be dedicated. But each individual must make the personal decision to deny self, take up the cross and follow Jesus (Luke 9:23). Then we will be walking in the steps of the One who promises, “To him who overcomes, I will give the right to sit with me on my throne, just as I overcame and sat down with my Father on his throne” (Revelation 3:21).
Here is the real tragedy of being a slave of sin and a victim of the devil’s devices: No one has to lose! We can choose to be like dedicated David to whom God gave victory wherever he went, or like Saul— full of pride and self, alone and defeated by foes he could have overcome with God’s help. When we stop blaming God, others and circumstances, we are left with our own choice. It is one thing to lose an
MIKE MCELROY Pastor
impossible struggle, but quite another to forfeit a sure victory. My friend, are you conquering? Are you winning daily victories over the tempter? Or are you a spiritual casualty or prisoner of war in the conflict between good and evil? I encourage you to honestly answer these questions. It is your choice. Do you want to win like David, or lose like Saul?
Mike McElroy recently retired after preaching almost 27 years at East Tallassee Church of Christ. He is the author of The Abiding Companion: A Friendly Guide to Your Journey Through the New Testament and Christmas Pilgrims: A Journey to See Jesus. In retirement, Mike plans to continue writing and publishing books in his Abiding Companion series of essays about each chapter of the Bible. He can be reached at mbmcelroy@ gmail.com.
By SAMUEL HIGGS
Sports Reporter
If you did not know the name Terrance Collins heading into this basketball season, more than likely you do now.
He had seen varsity minutes back in seventh grade, but now as a freshman, he is a full-fledged starter and he took no time waiting to show his impact. In the first game
of the season against Marbury, Collins debuted with a 19-point and 14-rebound night while also adding four steals in the process. From that point on he did not look back, earning the 2025 Elmore County Boys Basketball Player of the Year distinction.
On the year he averaged a double-double, which is difficult for any standout player to accomplish no less doing
By SAMUEL HIGGS Sports Reporter
The groundwork has been laid; all that’s left is to continue it.
Wins piled up all season long for the Wetumpka boys basketball team. At the helm of the operation was head coach Steven Thomas, who led the team to its first 20-win season since the 2013 season and a Sweet 16 appearance. For his efforts, he is the 2025 Elmore County Boys Basketball Coach of the Year.
Like any team, the Indians had their fair share of highs and lows throughout the year but ultimately finished with more highs. The minute the season started, they got on a winning track, jumping out to a 3-2 start, but it all paled in comparison to the run made following the Thanksgiving break.
From December through January, Wetumpka went on a monstrous streak, winning 11 straight games.
Everything was clicking on all cylinders with the team embracing the “one game at a time” mindset Thomas had envisioned for them.
“We weren’t really worried about going on to the next game or looking ahead (to) whoever we had,” Thomas said.
“We just took it one at a time. Our mantra is going in was anybody in front of us, we’ll just focus on beating who we play that day.”
Whatever was necessary, the Indians were going to find a way to win. Thomas keyed in on the plethora of victories they piled up coming off of someone’s hot hand or the team as a whole playing lockdown defense. It did not matter
how, all that mattered was coming away with a win.
“We started to, just from that point, figuring out we can find ways to win in different aspects of the game,” Thomas said. “Whether it be firing on all cylinders on offense, or being able to guard at a high level on defense, just different things like that. We found ways to win during that streak and throughout the season.”
There was one series in particular that Thomas pointed out that exemplified this team’s ability to win — the three games against Elmore County. Wetumpka took home a win in each of those games, but those wins all came from someone different each time.
Andrew Voyles had the hot hand in the first one with 35 points, then it was Nolan Fitch’s turn with a 23-point outing in the second, then the Indians capped it off with a combination of Fitch and Voyles in the finale as the two combined for 43 points.
“We had one game there that I remember specifically when we were over at Elmore County, and from the jump, you could tell it was going to be a hardfought game,” Thomas said. “Coach (Nathan) Taylor over there always has a great game plan. In the first game at our place, Andrew Voyles had a very good game. So (Taylor) game planned to take him away. I noticed that Nolan Fitch had a great game for us, especially in that second half where Andrew couldn’t get things going. And next thing you know, Nolan has a 23-point game
See THOMAS, Page B2
it as a freshman in Class 6A. Collin finished as a leader in points with 16.7 per game and rebounds with 10.2 per game while finishing in the top three of every other stat for Stanhope Elmore this year.
“Terrance, he really came in and played well,” Stanhope coach Austin Moncus said. “We really give him the freedom to
By SAMUEL HIGGS Sports Reporter
PLAYER OF THE YEAR: TERRANCE
COLLINS, STANHOPE ELMORE FRESHMAN
A name to watch over the course of the next three years will be Terrance Collins for Stanhope Elmore. He just finished his freshman campaign with the Mustangs, leading them in almost every major statistical category. He finished first in points with 16.7 per game, first in rebounds with 10.6 per game and first in field goal percentage with 45% on the year. Collins also was second on the team in blocks and steals while being third in assists. Standing at 6-foot-1, he has a unique blend of size and speed which was showcased this past season as he helped improve the Mustangs record from nine wins to 14.
FIRST TEAM
ANDREW VOYLES, WETUMPKA JUNIOR
For as much success the Indians saw this year on the court, Andrew Voyles played a monster role in getting the team to the Sweet 16. He finished as the leading scorer with 17.6 points per game, but all-around helped the team succeed. Voyles added 5.8 rebounds, 3.7 assists and 2.8 steals per game. As the primary goal scorer for the squad, he shot the ball at an extremely high rate going 51% from the field and 38% from behind the arc. Still with one more year left before his high school career is over, his number could see an incline as a senior.
JADEN EASON, ELMORE COUNTY SENIOR
Jaden Eason was all-around the best scorer for the Panthers last season, but where he made teams pay most was behind the
arc. He averaged a team-high 18 points per game in his senior year, while shooting a monstrous 45% from the 3-point line and knocking down 92 3-pointers on the year. He was also a proficient shooter at the free-throw line, going 88% on the year. He along with the rest of the senior class for Elmore County helped turn around the basketball program from just three wins to 13, narrowly falling to Beauregard in the first round of the area tournament where their season ended.
BROCK WHITT, EDGEWOOD JUNIOR
To average a double-double is one thing, but to average 13.1 points per game to pair it with 12.4 rebounds is another. Junior Brock Whitt did that for the Wildcats this year en route to an Elite 8 appearance against Springwood this past season. Standing at 6-foot-4, Whitt used his size to truly set him apart with his presence in the paint on both sides of the ball. He still has one more year with Edgewood Academy and his production this past season will be key in the team’s performance the following season.
ROWEN THORNTON, TALLASSEE SENIOR
Talk about a walking bucket — that is exactly what Rowen Thornton was and has been for the Tallassee basketball team his entire career. Last year, Thornton was on the cusp of 20 points per game; this year he exceeded that number for his second consecutive appearance as a first-team nod. In his senior year, he led the Tigers with 21 points per game while also being a steady presence on the defensive side of the ball. Although the season did not go exactly how he might have liked, he will continue to
prove his scoring prowess at Chattahoochee Valley next year to reign in the start of his collegiate career.
ELIJAH HEADLEY, HOLTVILLE SENIOR The beginning of the season seemed a little grim for the Bulldogs, but after notable seniors like Elijah Headley found their stride it made for a fun end to the season. Headley was a mainstay on both sides of the ball for Holtville this past season thanks to his 6-foot-6 frame. He finished as the team’s leading scorer with 9.8 points per game, adding 6.4 rebounds and a teamhigh 1.2 blocks per game. You’d imagine more of his points came from inside the paint, but Headley was not shy to show his range from behind the arc for the Bulldogs.
SECOND TEAM
Nolan Fitch, Wetumpka senior Kaleb Sanders, Stanhope Elmore sophomore Sawyer Compton, Tallassee senior Drew Knighton, Elmore County senior Kelton Shuford, Holtville senior Thomas Justiss, Edgewood junior
HONORABLE MENTIONS
WETUMPKA: Chris Robinson, Tom Suddith and Justin Godwin
TALLASSEE: Jaiden Gordon and Simeon Parker
ELMORE COUNTY: Austin Davis and Seth McGhee
Stanhope Elmore: Judiah Gilbert and Kamran Anderson
HOLTVILLE: Arkevious Turner, Braxton Gaither and Ethan Pruitt
EDGEWOOD: Avery Haskew, Eric Sumrall and Ja’Qub Anthony
TPI Staff
Runs are coming in bunches for the Tallassee softball team after picking up a 14-4 win over Sylacauga on Monday.
This is the third consecutive game where the Tigers have crossed the 10-run threshold in their three-game win streak. Against the Aggies, they accumulated 10 hits with Cheyann Easterling, Marlee Osborne, Regan Easterwood and Olivia Hammonds all racking up two hits a piece. One of Hammond’s hits was sent deep right field in the bottom of the fourth for a home run.
Kam Tate and Osborne took duties in the circle where each racked up strikeouts. Tate led off the game where she manned the circle for two innings — picking up two strikeouts but walked seven batters. Osborne came in for the last three innings, during which she logged four strikeouts and two walks.
Tallassee will look to make it four straight
against Prattville Christian Academy.
Reeltown picks up back-to-back wins over LaFayette
The Reeltown now sits atop the Class 2A Area 6 region following two dominating performances over LaFayette.
In the first game, the Rebels took a 15-0 victory with the game being called after just three innings of play. They roared out to an 11-0 lead by the completion of the first inning and added another four runs in the second. In total, the Rebels racked up 16 hits split amongst the entire batting lineup.
If that win was enough, Reeltown came back with a 16-0 victory over LaFayette where it was almost a repeat of the first game. After just one inning, Reeltown had a 10-0 lead then following the second it was extended by six more runs where yet again the game was called by the third inning.
Reeltown will next take on Horseshoe Bend following spring break.
Continued from B1
because he stepped up when our offense wasn’t very good at that.”
FRESHMAN
Continued from B1
Even with notable contributions to be lost, Wetumpka now knows what it takes to perform at a high level. Now, the hurdle to overcome is to not be complacent. With success comes expec -
play. Not a lot of time you see a freshman average and a double-double at the 6A level I’ll tell you that.”
According to Collins, what played to his benefit was the teammates he had around him. The combination of Kaleb Sanders and Judah Gilbert provided him complimentary pieces to score while Collins mentioned Kam Anderson playing a major role as to why he accumulated so many rebounds.
“My teammates really helped me out the most,” Collins said. “Kam Anderson and Judah Gilbert, they helped me out a lot. The reason I had (so many)
tations, as teams across the area will be gunning to topple Wetumpka on the court. Thomas will use the offseason to make sure they are still improving on a day-today basis as Wetumpka
rebounds was because Kam boxed guys out for me. If I couldn’t guard a person, Judah would guard them for me; those two are great teammates. Then another one of my teammates Kaleb Sanders — when it was too much on me, Kaleb can help me out a lot.”
Another aspect of his game that proved crucial for the Mustangs this year was his selflessness. Regardless of what was asked of him, Collins was going to do it.
“Kids nowadays correlate scoring the basketball with playing well, and that’s not him,” Moncus said. “If he’s not scoring the ball well, there are a lot of things that he does well on the court. As a coach, it’s hard to take
It’s all coming together for the Tallassee baseball team. The Tigers picked up 10-3 and 10-2 victories over Alabama Christian Academy followed by a 14-7 win over Stanhope Elmore. Hitting seemed to be a strong suit for Tallassee. Through all three games, the team accumulated a monstrous total of 31 hits – logging 15 against Stanhope alone. Sophomore Brue Milner racked up seven hits over the stretch paired with 11 RBIs and three runs scored. Against Alabama Christian and Stanhope, Milner picked up a home run in each while teammate Chase Chumley also smashed a home run against Alabama Christian. Seemingly, everyone in the batting lineup logged a hit or two during Tallassee’s winning streak. On the mound was a slightly different story. It was up and down for the plethora of pitchers for the Tigers, showing signs of varying success. In both games against the Eagles, the pitchers accumulated 12 total hits along with five runs scored but struck out 11 total batters. However, against the Mustangs, hits were coming in bunches. They logged 11 hits paired with seven runs scored while the
aims to be on top for another year.
“You can’t go into next season thinking, ‘Oh, we made it this far last year,’” Thomas said. “That it’s going to be an easy thing, or that’s
pitching group racked up six total errors on the mound.
Tallasseee will look to continue its winning ways against Montgomery Catholic on Friday.
THE REBELS FALL N BACK-TO-BACK GAMES Things were on a positive incline for the Reeltown baseball team, picking up five consecutive wins. However, production saw a bit of a dip in a 12-11 loss to Montgomery Academy and an 18-0 loss against Wetumpka. It was almost a tale of two different games, as the Rebels racked up 14 hits against the Eagles but logged only one total hit against the Indians. Although Reeltown showed some success on the offensive side, the defense is ultimately what cost it both games. Eight different players found themselves on the mound but in both games surrendered 10 or more hits as well as10 or more runs in each.
Hitting wise, Hutson Lewis, JaMarkius Smith, Hagan Lewis, Reed Wood, Brody Smith, Slade Carleton, Xander Johnston and Preston Lynn all logged a hit over the two-game stretch, Carleton sent one deep against Montgomery Catholic while Lynn came in with a three-hit performance.
going to be something that’s going to be automatic. No, you still got teams around you that are going to work today. If you’re not showing up with the expectation that a team across the
him off the floor. He played the most minutes on our team; it was just hard as a coaching staff for us to take him off the floor, just because he does everything so well.”
Heading forward into the rest of his playing career, Moncus wants Collins to continue what he’s doing. The main priority right now is getting him in the weight room to fill out his 6-foot-1 frame while also tackling new responsibilities as a leader for the team. The offseason has already begun for Stanhope Elmore with weekend workouts and as no surprise Collins is there helping get his team better.
“(We want him to) figure out how to be a good teammate, how to be a good leader,” Moncus said. “When
street or a team that you’re going to end up playing in any championship round, if you think they’re not trying to get better to beat you, then what are you here for?”
you work hard, bring people with you and make the program as a whole better. I think as a kid, his mindset is in the direction of getting our team better, which is a special man.”
Collin shared a similar sentiment of making the team around him better this offseason. However, the main goal for him is to make sure the Mustangs are in the playoff and competing for an area title.
“I just (want to ) get better with my team,” Collins said. “Making it far, getting in the playoffs and maybe the Sweet 16, getting farther than what we did this year. We’re just gonna get more discipline, more right when it comes to basketball. We’ll be good, and we’re gonna make it far.”
By MELODY RATHEL Multimedia Reporter
Being involved and giving back to a community does more than just help others — it makes a difference in people’s lives.
Every year, the Tallassee Chamber of Commerce awards Tallassee citizens who have gone above and beyond to make a difference in the community.
“It’s just a way to recognize people who are making a difference in the community,” chamber director Jerry Cunningham said. “We want to find ways to say thank you for their jobs and for being positive. We try to recognize positive elements in our community to show this is a good quality of life area.”
This year, the chamber honored some longtime teachers who have served the students of Tallassee City Schools for years. Jerri Brantley, Donna Cunningham and Mary Ellen Manning were recognized for their efforts to the local school system, along with Debbie Rogers who was honored for her efforts with the school system’s music department.
The award was also presented to individuals who have gone above and beyond to serve the community in different ways. From community service to continuous involvement, the chamber honored several citizens who have made a difference in Tallassee. Allison Stewart, Brent Tennyson, Joey and Nancy Wiginton and Bill and Sandra Patterson received the Making a Difference award.
It’s the end of the week with many of the biggest names in the market at new homes. Some teams made great moves while others just opened the door for questioning. Now, I feel it’s my duty to distinguish who I believe are winners and losers following NFL free agency.
Winner, Denver Broncos: It’s always a tell-tale sign of what an organization will do when they have a rookie quarterback under contract and how much advantage they’ll take of it. The Broncos came away with some big signings with the most notable being former 49ers Talanoa Hufanga and Dre Greenlaw then former Jaguar Evan Engram. Head coach Sean Payton has always had an affinity for tight ends and will likely find a way to scheme Engram open, who is second for tight ends in receptions over the past three years with 234. Hufanga and Greenlaw both add dominating presences on the
SAMUEL HIGGS Sports Reporter
defensive side of the ball, but also come in with concerns regarding injuries. Although the two saw limited time this past season due to significant injuries, the deals themselves were not grandiose that would be a cause of concern later down the line. The Broncos do lose leading rusher Javonte Williams, but then again, he only rushed for 513 yards and four touchdowns. The running back class in this upcoming draft is deep enough to where they can find a new guy on the second and third day of the draft.
Loser, San Francisco 49ers: The reason the 49ers are here is not because of any moves they made themselves, it was the lack thereof. Brock Purdy is set to be on the receiving end of
a lucrative quarterback deal which has meant the 49ers have to take themselves out of the running to allocate money to him. They lose the previously mentioned Hufunga and Greenlaw, in addition to Javon Hargraves, Kyle Juszczyk, Leonard Floyd, Maliek Collins, Charvarius Ward and Deebo Samuels (who was traded before the start of free agency). Granted they still have some of their big names in Nick Bosa, Brandon Aiyuk, George Kittle and Christian McCaffrey but they had most of those guys last year and still finished 6-11.
Winner, Chicago Bears: I don’t know if there is a team who has had a better offseason up until this point than the Bears.They have their new head honcho Ben Johnson, who has taken no time to improve the most glaring weakness that plagued the team last year — the offensive line. Joe Thuney and Jonah Jackson join the group
via trade while center Drew Dalman joins via a three-year deal. Caleb Williams might actually have time to breathe in the pocket rather than worry about who’s going to sack him next. I also thought their moves regarding the defensive front deserve recognition, long-time Falcon Grady Jarrett joins the team to provide them a presence in the interior while former Colt Doya Odeyingbo joins the team coming off the edge. The NFC North might be, or is, the most competitive division in all of the NFL. The Bears were the little brother amongst the others, but now seem to have adequate footing and a positive trajectory to possibly make a push.
Loser, Houston Texans: Not necessarily the Texans as a whole, but more specifically CJ Stroud got the short end of the stick looking back through free agency. The offensive line was average to maybe just slightly above average, at
best. Now, below average will be probably the best few words to describe the offensive line. Kenyon Green was traded to the Eagles for Chauncey Gardner-Johnson while Laremy Tunsil finds a new home with the Commander. Arguably the worst-case scenario for Stroud, who already hit a sophomore slump last year with the team. In addition to what he lost as far as protection goes, the pass-catching situation doesn’t show much promise either. Nico Collins is still there which is big, but Tank Dell will more than likely not see the field after a gruesome injury last year and Stefon Diggs is also already out the door searching for a new home himself.
Winner, Minnesota Vikings: I had my questions regarding the possible resigning of Sam Darnold, but the more I thought about it, the more I felt it was probably best to move on. Which the Vikings did, and now that means the
money Darnold would have received to go to other places. The main focus was both sides of the line, defensive and offensive, the most notable being Hargraves and Jonathan Allen to beef up the interior. Both of those guys are in the later stages of their careers but still have the capabilities to be game-changers in the Brian Flores defensive scheme. On the offensive front, a pair of Colts Ryan Kelley and Will Fries join the team to beef up the offense and give now second-year quarterback J.J. McCarthy some guys to help him breathe.
Other teams made moves that deserve recognition while others I still have my doubts about. However, after the first couple of days of free agency those were some of the most notable things that stood out to me.
Samuel Higgs is the sports editor for The Outlook.
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PUBLIC NOTICE
Lewis General Contractors, Inc. hereby gives notice of completion of contract with the City of Tallassee for construction of Project No. TAPNU-TA19(917) in Elmore County. This notice will appear for four consecutive weeks beginning March 12 2025 and ending April 2, 2025. West Front Street, Thomasville, AL 36784 during this period. Lewis General Contractors, Inc. Tallassee Tribune: Mar. 12, 19, 26 and Apr. 2, 2025 COMPLETION PUBLIC NOTICE
ORDINANCE NO. 2025-696 AN ORDINANCE REPEALING ORDINANCE 2018-545
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TALLASSEE, ALABAMA, AS FOLLOWS: Section 1. City of Tallassee Ordinance 2018-545 is repealed in its entirety. Section 2. All provisions of Section 2 of City of Tallassee Ordinance 2008-442 that regular meetings of the Tallassee City
gy Council will be held on the second and fourth Mondays of each Section 3. This Ordinance will be effective upon passage and publication as required by law. This the 11th day of March 2025.
JEREMY TAUNTON
LINDA MOSHER
DAMIAN CARR
BILL HALL
BILL GODWIN
FRED RANDALL HUEY
SARAH HILL, Mayor City of Tallassee, Alabama
ATTEST:
WHITNEY PITCHFORD, City Clerk
CERTIFICATE AS TO PASSAGE I, the undersigned City Clerk of the City of Tallassee, Alabama, do hereby certify that the above and foregoing Ordinance was duly approved and adopted by the City Council of the City of Tallassee, Alabama on the 11th day of March, 2025. 2025.
WHITNEY PITCHFORD, City Clerk
Tallassee Tribune: Mar. 19, 2025 ORD. 2025-696
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duties, including data entry, document preparation, tenant reexaminations
•Responsible for general knowledge of Housing Regulations and specific knowledge of Occupancy Rules and Regulations
•Maintain thorough knowledge of program requirements and update regulations as required.
•Perform other related assignments as required.
Skills
•Proficiency in Microsoft Suite (Word, Excel).
•Strong organizational skills with attention to detail.
•Excellent time management abilities to prioritize tasks effectively.
•Experience in customer service or as a personal assistant is a plus.
•Computer literacy with the ability to adapt to new software quickly.
•Familiarity with clerical duties,
preventative maintenance checks.
• Groundskeeping task; trash removal, trimming, mowing, etc.
• Conducts UPCS and annual dwelling and system inspections and routine cleaning.
• Ensures all assigned subordinate personnel adhere to the Authority’s safety program and procedures.
• After hours/weekend emergency coverage and other duties as directed.
Skills/Knowledge
• Considerable knowledge of standard practices, methods, materials, tools, and equipment, used in building, grounds maintenance, plumbing, carpentry, and electrical trades.
• Ability to understand and follow written and oral instructions.
• Understand and work from sketches, blueprints, diagrams, etc.
• Establish and maintain effective relationships with vendors, associates, residents, and contractors.
• Considerable knowledge of public housing inspection program, fauns, procedures, and requirements.
• Ability to perform heavy lifting of objects, e.g., lift 75 lbs. from
By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
A homeschooled stu -
dent was awarded the seventh annual Elmore County Republican Party Scholarship.
Sophie Creamer was one of three finalists invited to the party’s annual scholarship dinner and walked away with the top dollar.
“She is our first-ever homeschool applicant,” scholarship chairperson Karen Stewart said. “We also had a record number of applicants.”
Creamer started school in the Eclectic schools but she and her family chose to keep education in the home. But it didn’t stop her interaction with public school students. Creamer was more than a member of the Elmore County High School Maroon Machine Marching Band. She was also band president while playing the piccolo and oboe.
Practice and performances had her on the field and in the band room four to five days a week. There were also football games, competition days and concerts at which to perform.
“It takes a lot of time management skills, but I feel like homeschooling has taught me a lot about that,” Creamer said. “Band taught me a lot about leadership skills and helped me become the leader I am
today.” The scholarship requires an essay based in politics. This year’s prompt was to write something in the political realm that should have been handled differently.
“I chose federal spending, particularly pertaining to FEMA and the hurricanes and Ukraine,” Creamer said. “Then DOGE and all that stuff started coming out. It’s even revealed more that I could have used
in my essay that I didn’t know prior to submitting it. I may go back and rewrite portions of it.”
Creamer currently plans to attend Jacksonville State University and major in nursing.
“I have not yet tried
out for the scholarship portion of it,” Creamer said. She also wants to carry on her music that kept her on the band fields.
“I’ll try out for the marching band when that comes closer in time,” Creamer said. Creamer was joined as a finalist by Wetumpka High School seniors Gracie Arnold and Price Goggans. All three were awarded financial scholarships.
After falling in the past two games, the Elmore County softball team responded by winning the next two. First the Panthers turned in a 7-4 victory over Marbury then followed it up with a 14-6 win over Alabama Christian Academy.
Against the Bulldogs, their play in the batter’s box excelled with the Panthers racking up 10 hits on the day. Lalah Culpepper had one of the better days, logging three hits in her four at-bats along with two runs and one RBI. Addison Hicks was another who shared in the hitting success for the Panthers – picking up two hits and two runs. Kayden Edwards also finished the night with two hits to her name, picking up one run and one RBI as well. Raevyn Barris, Brooklyn Berry and Abigail Holt were the remaining players to each log a hit against the Bulldogs.
Culpepper took sole duties on the mound with varying levels of success. She surrendered eight hits and picked up three errors, but struck out five batters.
Then against Alabama Christian, the hitting success continued. Hicks, yet again racked up hits, in her five at-bats she picked up three hits, two runs and one RBI. Edwards picked up two
hits in her five at-bats. Barris, Culpepper, Addie Peadan, Addy Patterson and Berry rounded out the hitting affair for the group.
ELMORE COUNTY BASEBALL FALLS DESPITE EARLY LEAD AGAINST SHELBY COUNTY
Through the first three innings, it looked to be all Elmore County, but at the end of the final inning it was Shelby County who came out on top 9-8. The Panthers jumped out to an early being up 5-0 by the completion of the third inning. However, once the fifth came around it was the Wildcats who ultimately prevailed, scoring all nine of their runs through just three innings.
Shelby County was atop of the hitting department with 11 hits while Elmore County finished the day with eight. Shae Darnell and Austin Davis each finished the day with two hits apiece — both combining for three runs. Gage Davis, Shelton Darnell, Dallin Simpson and Carson Saucier came away with a hit. Pitching duties were split between Gage Davis, Austin Davis and Jaden Eason who surrendered 11 hits, nine runs and combined for seven errors. However the pitching trio racked up 11 strikeouts with Gage Davis accounting for eight of them.