Tallassee Tribune April 30 2025 by Tallapoosa Publishers

didacy for reelection, Hall said, “Over the last four years we’ve made many improvements within the City; however, there is much left to get accomplished.”

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

A confrontation during a domestic incident is central to a Saturday Tallassee shooting. The confrontation between three individuals left Malik Allen dead and Dakerian Hughley, 21, of Tallassee, in jail charged with Allen’s murder. Hughley was in front of Elmore

County District Court Judge Glen Goggans Tuesday morning for an Aniah’s Law hearing to determine if Hughley would receive a bond in the case at this time. Elmore County chief assistant district attorney Mandy Johnson laid out the state’s reasoning of no bond through the testimony of Tallassee investigator M.H. Manning. The detective said officers received a call about 10:24 p.m. Saturday the subject being

By ABIGAIL MURPHY

Multimedia Reporter

and

Allen’s autopsy

FORMER MARCHING PRIDE MEMBERS SURPRISE RETIRING DIRECTOR

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

ometimes, the smallest acts of encouragement can make the biggest impact on others.

Throughout his 25 years as a band director, Dr. Roby Glasscock served hundreds of students at Southside Middle School and Tallassee High School. Many of his students went on to pursue music in college, and several attribute their accomplishments to Glasscock’s encouragement. Now, just before his

retirement, he had the opportunity to close out his career with the middle school band, high school band and, to his surprise, an impromptu alumni band. All that was left for Glasscock was directing a high school band spring concert, an eighth grade band performance and directing graduation. But his former students wanted to prod him for one last lesson. Several alumni traveled to Tallassee to join Glasscock for his finale — some even drove 10 hours to surprise him.

“There were some little hints that something was going on,” Glasscock said. “I was not expecting to have so many of the students return like that to play. They caught me off guard.” It was full circle for Emily Scott Dillard who last played for Glasscock in 2007.

“He always told me that I wouldn’t be able to do something and I always defied the odds,” Dillard said. “He said I couldn’t play the flute, so I played

CLIFF WILLIAMS TPI

Emily Scott Dillard, second from left, plays the piccolo Thursday night.

shot and injured on Hickory Street. When officers arrived, they found Allen suffering from a gunshot wound to the right arm

in the pelvis. Manning said he attended

of the Tallassee City Council.

Humane Society of Elmore County News

Local shelters celebrate National Adopt a Shelter Pet Day

By REA CORD HSEC Executive Director

Wednesday April 30 is

National Adopt a Shelter Pet Day. What a great day to bring awareness of all the wonderful pets that are in shelters locally and across our country. Right here in our River Region, we have three shelters that house anywhere from 800 to 1200 total pets in the shelters and foster homes, and that number is starting to climb rapidly as kitten season is now underway. That is a lot of unwanted and displaced pets in need of new and loving homes for one three-county region.

Of course, the first thing we hope happens for the lost pets coming into the Humane Society of Elmore County is

for their owners to come and reclaim them. All of us are fielding dozens of lost and found pet reports daily and working to reunite pets as we would much rather get a pet back to its owner than have to find it a brand new home. But owners have to be active in looking for their pets and not give up too soon. Call shelters, use social media and keep your lost posts updated. Having photos is really important as we often get descriptions that do not really match what we are seeing.

After the legal stray holds and for those surrendered by owners, our next steps are getting them ready for adoption. In this day and age you can easily check out pets looking for homes using the internet

Pet of the Week - Dory

— the two oldest and most active sites are www.petfinder.com and www.adoptapet. com. Now, will you see more than 800 pets online between our three shelters? No; there are many steps we all have to take before adoption — some might be under medical treatment, or too young for adoption or are being evaluated for any behavior issues, possibly being held for court actions, waiting for spay or neuter appointments or other limitations. Shelter staff play a kind of animal Rubik’s cube all day long as new animals come in, medical issues are addressed, fosters step up, animals are readied for adoption, adoptions and transfers (to rescue partners) happen and yes, when euthanasia is

determined to be necessary. That means these online adoption sites are updated daily, if not hourly so what you see there today may be quite different tomorrow. What you will get when adopting from our area shelters are pets that have been fully vaccinated, treated for internal and external parasites, previously spayed or neutered or as a condition of adoption and microchipped; the HSEC also registers the pet’s microchip to the adopter during the adoption. Shelter staff also evaluate these pets and do their best to help potential adopters make a good adoption choice based on numerous factors that take into account the pet’s personality, activity level,

Dory is a female Lab mix puppy, 5 1/2 months old and should be in the 45-50 lb range when fully grown. She is a sweet, happy, playful pup who loves everyone and just wants a forever family to call her own.

The Humane Society of Elmore County’s adoption fees are $100 for dogs and $50 for cats under 1

RECOVERED

pelvis and traveled across the body.

“It was the fatal shot,” Manning testified.

The investigator said there were multiple on the scene Saturday and at least five gave statements. There are also two videos showing the incident — one from the housing authority security camera and one from a Ring doorbell.

Manning said the videos and witness statements line up. Hughley and a female were chasing each other and came close to Allen’s car.

“The victim approaches the female,” Manning said.

“Then the defendant and (Allen) were almost touching shoulders.”

Officers spoke with Hughley Saturday night about 90 minutes after the incident. Hugley admits to a

year old. Cats over 1 can be adopted by approved adopters for a fee of their choosing. This adoption fee covers the mandatory spay or neuter, basic immunizations, deworming, microchip, heartworm check for dogs, rabies vaccination if old enough and a free health exam with your participating veterinarian.

If you are interested in meeting

domestic altercation, chasing a female around and confronting the victim.

“He said the victim pulled a firearm and he acted in self-defense,” Manning testified.

Hughley was allowed to leave.

Authorities obtained the videos. The owner of the Ring camera brought the video to the Tallassee Police Department and gave a statement to investigators. The video gave a different version of the incident.

It showed Hughley pulling a weapon and firing at Allen. The victim then moved along his car, retrieved a weapon and fired back at Hughley.

The defendant got in the female’s car on the driver’s side but soon got out to flee on foot. At the same time a round struck the driver’s window. Hughley fled the scene through a cut in the woods to another neighbor-

the deputy said. “He was stuck. He would not get out of the vehicle after multiple times telling him to get out.”

Deputies removed Downs from the vehicle. He then briefly ran from law enforcement and was tased.

Olivia 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.

hood.

After seeing the video, authorities contacted Hughley again, and again he voluntarily came to the police department. This time Hughley slightly changed his statement to the police.

“He said (Allen) was pulling at his waistband,”

Manning said. “He said he, ‘Knew how he was,’ and chose to shoot.”

Manning said Hughley’s statement to him said there was a disagreement between the two over a firearm.

Hughley said he lost his weapon from Saturday night while fleeing the scene. Manning said police have canvassed the area and have not found a handgun.

Authorities also recovered more than 30 shell casings from within 200 feet of where the incident took place. Manning said forensics would determine which ones were from Sat-

urday’s shooting.

It was also determined Hughley was out of jail on bond in Macon County. There he is accused of shooting into an occupied vehicle with a Glock 26 9mm handgun. A round struck someone in the thigh.

On July 3, 2024, Hughley was charged with discharging a gun into an occupied building or vehicle, first-degree assault, menacing and reckless endangerment. He posted a $69,000 bond.

The Macon County District Attorney’s Office has filed a motion to revoke Hughley’s bond in the case.

“He’s out on bond for basically the same thing in Macon County,” Johnson said. “Only that person lived.”

Goggans denied a bond for Hughley after hearing the testimony and arguments Tuesday morning.

breed propensities as well as the adopter’s lifestyle, living situation and personal preferences. Since far too many of these pets have been discarded at least once, our goal is to help make a ‘good fit’ placement that will be successful for pet and human alike which is the key to successfully adopting a pet.

We have an Adoption Application process so that we can help potential adopters make a good choice for pet and people alike. All of our pets listed online have the link to fill out our application online at the bottom of their information. If you want to do a Wish List Adoption Application to tell us what you are looking for, you can fill out that here: https://

www.elmorehumane.org/ wish-list-adoption-application.html. Telling us things like breed types, age range, male or female, coat length preferences, and other features will help us stay on the lookout for a potential match and we will email you with info and photos of any pet we think might fit your ‘wish app.’

So when you are considering your next pet, please check your local shelters as we can promise there are animals with years of love to give you, and shelter staff who want to help you find your perfect match.

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

Former tag clerk arrested for using position for personal gain

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

One former employee of the Tallapoosa County Probate Judge Office has been arrested and an investigation is ongoing.

Jarrah Shay Keel, 33, of Alexander City was booked into the Tallapoosa County Jail on Wednesday and was charged with using position for personal gain, a Class B felony in Alabama punishable by a 2 to 20 year sentence in prison. Keel was the chief tag clerk of the Tallapoosa County Probate Judge Office but is no longer with the department. Court records indicate the alleged offense occurred over a seven week period last winter. Court records state Keel “... did on or about between Oct. 25, 2024 and Dec. 9, 2024, being a public official, unlawfully, knowingly and willfully used his/her official position or office to obtain direct personal financial gain for him/herself, family or business of which he/ she or a family member is associated with, which such financial gains was not specifically authorized

by law.” According to court records, a prosecutor from the Alabama Attorney General’s Office has been assigned the case.

Tallapoosa County Probate Judge Tal East said Keel is a former employee of his office and understands she has been arrested. He wants to assure the public that no personal information has been compromised.

“We are actively identifying and contacting those directly affected,” East said. “We will continue to do so until every concern is addressed. Though this situation is disappointing, it has been met with swift internal action and strengthened safeguards. I will provide a more detailed and transparent statement once the legal process has run its course.” Multiple messages left with the attorney general’s office have not been returned as of Friday morning.

Downs was taken to an area hospital for treatment and drug screen. “He had THC in his system,” the deputy said. Downs was charged with driv -

ing under the influence-controlled substances, attempt to elude, reckless endangerment, resisting arrest, obstructing governmental operations, disorderly conduct, failure to possess ex-felon registration card, first-degree criminal mischief, improper lane usage, driving on wrong side of road, reckless driving, driving without insurance, no passing zone, speeding, obstructed windshield, improper lights and failure to register vehicle.

Goggans bound the case over to the grand jury and left Downs’ bond the same — $47,000 cash. COURT

Our View Opinion

Spring has sprung

Spring is here, and you can certainly feel it. Although it may feel like January was yesterday, the sunshine and warm weather are here to stay for the next few months. While duty calls and work is at the top of mind for many, it’s important to take a minute to enjoy the sunshine.

Work is one of the most important things in life — it keeps the bills paid, food on the table and a roof over your head. Getting carried away with a job is easy for many, especially those who are passionate about what they do. But, there’s more to life than work.

Every week, many devote 40 hours of their life to their occupation. In a week, that adds up to 200. In a year, 10,400. It’s easy to let work occupy a large part of your mind, and yet it already takes up most of your life. But there’s an entire world outside of your office space, so why not take some time to go see it?

There’s no better time to explore the world than the warmest and brightest time of the year. Whether it’s a trip to see family, starting a new outdoor hobby or just taking a walk outside, it’s important to enjoy spring while it’s here.

Take the warm weather as an opportunity to have new experiences with friends, loved ones and family members.

Spring only comes around once a year, so take the time to enjoy the warm weather and sunshine before it’s gone again. The next time you worry about what might happen while you’re on vacation, remember to enjoy the warm weather. It will only be around for so long.

Bring back the 90s rom-com

Ilove many movies and book genres, but one that I think is excelling in the book world but floundering in the movie world are romantic comedies.

According to Book Riot, one of the predictions for 2024 in the book world was the rise of romance subgenres — including the rom-com. Over the past couple of years, many popular romantic-comedy novels have come out, such as “The Unmatchmakers,” “Book Lovers,” “Get a Life, Chloe Brown” and “Love, Theoretically.” Despite a clear love of this genre in one medium, it’s been very quiet in the film department. The most recent rom-com to my memory to make some waves was “Anyone but You.” And yet it was met with only slightly above average reviews getting six out of 10 stars on IMDB. Not to say it wasn’t a good movie, but many rom-com fans felt the movie was missing that rom-com magic. The 90s rom-com had a way of balancing romance and comedy that can be harder to find. Many of these rom-coms emphasize the comedy side through witty dialogue, similar to old Hollywood films like “Singing in the Rain” or “His Girl Friday.” Especially in the

late 2000s, the comedy side leaned more into slapstick or physical comedy.

This isn’t to say one type of comedy is better than the other. Many effective rom-coms use multiple styles of comedy. But for a rom-com to be a rom-com, it also must create a compelling love story. The romance side is very reliant on the two lead’s chemistry, the clear understanding of why the two like each other and a plot that creates a love story that is believable for the world these characters exist in.

“Bridget Jones’s Diary” is one example of a rom-com that creates a balance between the comedies, chemistry between the leads and a compelling love story. There are elements of witty dialogue, such as the work email sent between Bridget and her boss/pseudo lover interest Daniel. There are physical gags like during Bridget’s first day of work at the TV station. But there is also the romance side, loosely based off of Pride

and Prejudice, it is an enemies to lovers story. Yet, by the end of the story it’s clear why Bridget has fallen for Darcy and why Darcy has fallen for Bridget. There is of course the famous line given by Darcy to Bridget of, “I like you, just the way you are.” That acts as the crux of the love story as so much of the film is Bridget finding ways to change herself to who she thinks she should be. Of course, it’s not just “Bridget Jones’s Diary” that strikes this balance, you can make the same argument for “When Harry Met Sally,” “Pretty Woman,” “Sleepless in Seattle,” “Notting Hill,” “Legally Blonde,” “Clueless,” etc. There have been some romcoms in more recent years that have captured that balance like “Crazy Rich Asians” or “To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before,” both of which were based on books. So perhaps it’s time for Hollywood to take a page, or perhaps a whole book, from the publishing industry. People are craving rom-coms so let’s put it back on the menu.

Abigail Murphy is the Dadeville beat reporter for Tallapoosa Publishers Inc. She can be reached at abigail.murphy@ alexcityoutlook.com.

The future of public television hangs in the balance

n May, 1961, Alabama Public

ITelevision celebrated its 6th birthday as the nation’s first educational television network. Across the country, public television signals were beginning to blink on in those still-early days of TV, but the pace wasn’t fast enough for Newton Minow.

Minnow was then the newly appointed head of the Federal Communications Commission — a position he took seriously as the “keeper” of the nation’s broadcast airwaves. Those airwaves, he believed, were not up to the job they were tasked with fulfilling, that of keeping America’s viewers not just entertained but also informed and engaged in their world.

Within six years a national system of educational television was organized by Congress and the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) was created. In just a couple of years we met Fred Rogers in his new TV “neighborhood,” and we all began humming the theme song to “Sesame Street” as we welcomed new friends Bert and Ernie to TV’s expanding program mix. Many other significant successes in television programming followed. The CPB has served us well.

Today, we face a crisis with public television — and the issue is the funding it so desperately needs. The president has threatened to reduce or even eliminate funding for public television and public radio, and the villain in this drama, as in so many dramas

these days, is politics. Some voices in power don’t like some CPB programs. Other voices in positions of power believe certain programming is vital to a healthy mix of ideas in the TV marketplace. We struggle to agree, or to even try to find a compromise.

Here in Alabama, members of the Alabama Educational Television Commission are appointed by the governor. The commission, in turn, appoints members to a Foundation Board to oversee the funding of the organization from a variety of sources, one of which is the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. As chair of the Foundation Board, I write today to focus the public’s attention on four basic facts about this critical funding source:

• Of the approximately $23 million annual APT budget, almost $3 million comes directly into our state from CPB — about 13% of the total. Cuts of that magnitude would devastate almost any budget, public or private. Services — including programming — would likely be reduced, and a pinch felt even possibly in staff support.

• Public television is not allowed to “sell” its available programming time and must rely for support on the good will and charitable spirit of donors — like many of you. These efforts would certainly be ramped up, but a 13% mountain is tough to climb in the funding world. It’s not likely that the gap could be appreciably closed.

• Nationally produced educational programming would face deep cuts, as would locally produced, Alabama-specific programs. In-person teacher training programs would not be exempt.

• APT and other public broadcasters across America provide a reliable and secure fiber “backbone” that activates in times of emergencies or disasters, including the dissemination of severe weather information as well as ancillary services such as supporting the Amber Alert network. For the 22nd year in a row, public television was ranked last year as the nation’s most trusted institution, with 76% of Americans agreeing that public television provides an excellent value to communities. Public media has earned the broad support of the American people, across the political spectrum, including 65% of those who voted for President Trump who think public television is either adequately funded or underfunded, according to a recent YouGov survey. That bipartisan support in the public has been consistently reflected in Congress, which approved funding for public media just a few weeks ago in the final fiscal year 2025 funding bill. I strongly believe that, were Newton Minow alive today, he would join forces with the nation’s public broadcasters to preserve — not destroy –- this critical funding for public television, and that he would be a proponent of the variety of programs offered on public stations today. In that spirit, I strongly urge Congress to reject any destructive proposals to rescind, cut or eliminate public media funding.

Barry Copeland is the chair of the Alabama Education Television Foundation Authority.

ABIGAIL MURPHY Multimedia Reporter

BARRY COPELAND AETFA Chair

Reeltown students building life skills through Adulting 101

By ABIGAIL MURPHY Multimedia Reporter

Budgeting groceries, inflating a tire, paying taxes — these are all things most adults may consider a standard part of life, but these are learned skills too.

In order to help prepare high schoolers for “the real world,” Tallapoosa County career coaches Cheryl Bynum and Dawn Smith have been organizing Adulting 101 days across the school district. The first Adulting 101 was organized by Smith at Reeltown High School alongside the school counselors and principals.

RHS had two half days blocked off last Thursday and Friday for local experts to come in and teach the students a little about their industry. Some of the topics covered were first aid, credit scores, plumbing, electrical, sewing, renting a home, etiquette, professional dress, auto maintenance, filling out a job application and more.

This is Reeltown’s second year of having Adulting 101 and with the success of last year, the school knew they needed to bring it back again. Bynum said they have already had many positive comments from both the students and the local experts.

“We find that seniors, and students in general,

RETIRES

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may lack some of the knowledge that they need in order to be successful when they leave high school,” Bynum said. “And so we just found some deficits, like, how do you do a W-4 form, or how do you sew on a button? Or how do you open a bank account? Just different things that they need to know.”

Before the Adulting 101 days, the career coaches met with seniors, especially, to go over what life skills they felt they needed to learn more about the most. So each school’s Adulting 101 looks different based on the student’s and school’s needs.

Bynum said some students have parents that go over a lot of this information with, but that may not be the case for every child for a variety of reasons. So, as part of the education process and as career coaches, they want each student to feel prepared for life after high school as much as possible.

The Adulting 101 days are being held at the end of the school year so that these topics stay fresh in the seniors’ mind before graduation. Bynum said they might consider doing this program twice a year for the December graduates, but that’s not finalized. Regardless, they plan to keep Adulting 101 a school district tradition in the years to come.

the flute. He said I couldn’t play the piccolo, so I played the piccolo.”

Dillard believes it was Glasscock’s way of motivating her. She realizes now it made her better in so many ways, not just musically.

“He was always pushing against me,” Dillard said. “He knew that brought out the over achiever in me, so I was always first chair section leader, that kind of stuff because of him.”

Dillard eventually played the piccolo at Huntingdon College.

Dillard has children in the sixth and eighth grade bands. She was hoping they would play for Glasscock and bring along her knack for getting under his skin a little bit. Instead, she had to bring them to the special performance of “To A New Beginning.” Glasscock conducted the eighth grade band alongside some alumni, including Dillard.

“I’m playing the piccolo tonight despite him,” Dillard joked. “I hoped one of my children would do it. Instead I’m doing it.”

Others drove hours to be a part of the special performance. Andrew

ANNOUNCES

Continued from A1

ABOVE: Representatives with SCF Builders went over basic home

BELOW: Adulting 101 was created for students

Webster is a lab technician living in Cleveland, Tennessee. He played the saxophone in college and continues to play in a jazz band. He made the drive to Tallassee to play in front of Glasscock one more time with his friends and classmates. Before coming back to his alma mater, the last time he played was before he graduated from Tallassee in 2015.

“I felt like it was something that I needed to do,” Webster said. “Band opened up a lot of different avenues for me. I continued to play in college and made a lot of lasting friendships there, and it’s still continuing to benefit me, even now.”

The band opened the doors for Ashlyn Gilliland to become the person she is today. While she didn’t play in college, the high school band experience helped Gilliland mature into an adult.

“Honestly, at least for me, he was always that one teacher that always treated us like people,” Gilliland said. “He treated us not as equals, but as young adults.”

From gubernatorial inaugurals and the Talladega Super Speedway, to marching band contests, local parades and parades in Chicago, Philadelphia and San Antonio, Glasscock exposed

Hall identified within his tenure as councilmember for Ward 4, the city has been successful in navigating the financial stresses of today’s economy and is making strides in upgrades to infrastructure and recreational parks. Within the last four years, the city has obtained over $15 million in grant funding that is currently being used for the replacement of over 20 miles of cast iron gas lines. In 2021, the city was identified as having over 34 miles of cast iron gas lines that needed to be replaced per the U.S. Department of Transpor-

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the governor’s signature, as of Friday. It technically bans the use of all wireless electronic communication devices, such as iPads, tablets, pagers, smartwatches, laptops and cell phones —- unless these devices are being used for educational instructional purposes.

This school year, Tallassee City Schools implemented the Yondr pouches to help keep cell phones away from students during the school day. Under the school’s board policy, the cell phone must be off and put away, which can include in a bookbag.

“The pouches are just a tool that allow teachers to help manage it while in the classroom,” superintendent Dr. Brock

tation, Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration. The city has completed the Downtown Renovation project, which consisted of underground utilities, sidewalks and paving. The city’s wastewater treatment facility has finally been brought back up to acceptable standards.

High traffic areas

Nolin said. Under the new FOCUS act, Tallassee will return to no pouches and will keep cell phones off and out of the classrooms, stored in student lockers or cars. The act does allow some exceptions such as students under an Individualized Education Program, Individualized Accommodation Plan, Section 504 plan, or Individualized Health Plan.

The act also notes a student cannot have a cell phone during an instructional day, which includes times like lunch, class transition and other non-instructional times during the school day.

Nolin said they have had their cell phone policy in place for years and it’s especially important now because, with social media, students are getting notifications much more frequently than they did even just 10 years ago.

his bands to the world.

The high school experience opened doors for 2012 graduate Stanley Lacey. He was the first Glasscock student to earn a full ride as he went on to play trombone at the University of Alabama. He drove 10 hours Thursday from Magnolia, Texas, bringing his wife and five children for the special performance.

It was Glasscock who pushed Lacey to be a better musician and person in his own way.

“My freshman year, I was trying out for all-state,” Lacey said. “I just wasn’t getting my scales at all. I was trying to play them in the band room. He came up to me and said I was never going to get into all state at this rate because I wasn’t practicing my scales like I should. It made me so mad that I practiced them every day after that. I made all state that year.”

Lacey believed Glasscock was best at supporting students who were willing to put in effort to better themselves.

“If I was doing it, he was there encouraging me and pushing me to do better,” Lacey said. “I made the all state blue band my freshman year and made red band each year after. A big

within Ward 4 such as South Ann Street have been paved with plans to extend the paving down to E.B. Payne Drive this summer. The council approved and saw the completion of new lighting poles at all three ball complexes and is currently proceeding with the design and construction of a new recreational facility.

part of that was him. I just appreciate what he did.” Today, Lacey applies his experience in the band as a Lutheran pastor. “I do get to use my trombone in the church,” Lacey said. “I will play it some in the music ministry.”

Many of the alumni wrote letters to Glasscock Thursday and left them with him in a bag as they gathered to surprise Glasscock Thursday night. Most had rehearsed the piece themselves but had never played it as a group, much less with the eighth grade band.

No one will remember the quality of the performance, even though it was good. They will remember Glasscock for making them better people.

By Friday, Glasscock had read most of the letters about what Glasscock and the high school band experience meant. He noticed something about them.

“None of them mentioned I was mad at them because they were out of position at practice or during a performance,” Glasscock said. “We were in the trenches trying to learn half time shows. They just remembered the happy memories. It was the same thing for me. They told me they were better people because of me and the band.”

Hall believes his diverse background and experiences working at different levels of the government enabled him to serve the citizens of Tallassee and Ward 4 successfully. With over 31 years of military experience, 25 years of state service in revenue and seven years of federal service in auditing, he brings ample financial and management experience down to the local level.

“(Cell phones) are a distraction, even for adults and myself included,” Nolin said. “If you are inside of a classroom, our focus as humans nowadays is very short — 20 minutes or so according to some research. And you expect a child to sit in a class that’s 50 minutes to an hour long and be fully engaged, so any kind of distraction is really a deterrent to learning.”

Nolin said the reason they implemented Yondr pouches was because students could have cellphones in their backpacks and sometimes would grab their phone while the teacher had their back turned. But under the new act, this won’t be as much of a concern since students won’t even have cell phones in the classroom — aside from the specified circumstances within the law.

“Given the opportunity to continue serving as a councilman in this great city, I think the citizens will soon take notice of the strides we are making in transitioning Tallassee into a flourishing place that people will proudly call home,” Hall said.

As with implementing any type of new legislation, Nolin said he suspects there will be some growing pains, but once students get used to the expectations it will smooth itself out.

Overall, Nolin said the cell phone policy being statewide now gives Tallassee City Schools a little more teeth since it’s not just a local policy. However, the board will still be revising the school’s policy so that it complies with the FOCUS act.

The FOCUS act also has an Internet safety policy to adopt, and students will be expected to complete a social media safety course before the eighth grade.

The act is expected to go into effect July 1, 2025, for the policy to be implemented statewide starting the 2025-2026 school year.

ABIGAIL MURPHY TPI

electricity with the students.

to learn more about the life skills many will need after high school.

It’s a national thing

G reetings from the corner of Bridge and Bridge. It is a lovely spring morning as I write this column.

Storms may be raging elsewhere, but things look pretty clear here for the moment.

Tomorrow is the National Day of Prayer. On May 5, 1988, President Ronald Reagan signed a bill into law. That bill reads: The President shall set aside and proclaim the First Thursday in May in each year, as a National Day of Prayer, on which the people of the United States may turn to God in prayer and meditation at churches, in groups, and as individuals.

On April 17, 1952, a bill initiated by Mr. Conrad Hilton of Hilton Hotels and Senator Frank Carlson of Kansas was passed (Public Law 82-324, Sec. 119).

That bill reads: The President shall set aside and proclaim a suitable day each year, other than a Sunday, as a National Day of Prayer, on which the people of the

United States may turn to God in prayer and meditation at churches, in groups, and as individuals.

I have one simple question as we approach the National Day of Prayer 2025. Why did it take 36 years for a passed bill to become signed, legal practice? If you research the history of the bill Reagan signed into law, you will find details of its journey over those years. Chalk it up to legislative process, I suppose.

I have been fascinated by American government since I first began to learn about it in seventh-grade Civics class. I am not sure why, but I was immediately interested in the founding principles and evolution of our national system of government. Of course, over time, that fascination led to powerful examples of its strengths and weaknesses.

Before I go any further, allow me to make one thing clear. I am an advocate

for and supporter of our system of government. I have always believed that the democratic republic is the best way to govern a country. The system is not and will never be perfect, but its very structure provides ample opportunity for evolutionary growth.

It took twenty-two years for the original bill passed in 1952 to result in the formation of the National Prayer Committee. It took two more years for the four members to be selected. The committee was finally, officially formed three years later in 1979.

I bring up this history as a means of sparking some individual and communal reflection.

The original language presented and passed in 1952 is simple and easy to understand. The language finally signed into law is nearly identical to the original language. What was all the fuss about? What the extensive process?

I do not claim to have any idea what

Tallassee Churches

REV. JONATHAN YARBORO Columnist

the fuss was all about. I am not interested in digging up the past to try and figure that out. I am very interested and fully vested in observing the original idea and not repeating the history of its evolution into signed law.

Since 1988, the first Thursday of May has been designated a National Day of Prayer. Citizens across the nation are encouraged to engage in a dedicated time of prayer for community at the city, county, state, and national level in their prayer practice of personal choice. There is no need for further justification or explanation.

Pray for our nation. Pray for the earthly kingdom as a whole. Pray to God in the manner of your covenant relationship to God. Sounds like a no-brainer to me. How about you?

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

Reeltown rides strong pitching, timely homers to series sweep

STAFF REPORT

TPI Staff

It’s not over yet.

The Reeltown baseball team advances to the third round of the AHSAA Class 2A playoffs after sweeping G.W. Long on Thursday.

In Game 1, it was the JaMarkius Smith show. He saw action on the mound through the first five frames,

where he did not allow a hit or run while sending eight batters back to their dugout.

He then turned around to send one over the fence, leading to a 2-0 victory.

It was a quiet day for both sides through the first couple of frames, but that was until Reed Wood stepped to the plate in the bottom of the third inning. He logged the Rebels’ second hit of the day

Tallassee punches ticket to regional as area runner-ups

STAFF REPORT

TPI Staff

It was a long weekend for the Tallassee softball team, but it was all worth it with a bid to regionals secured.

The Class 4A Area 5 tournament opened with an 8-4 loss to Montgomery Catholic, but the Tigers were able to match the Knights in hits with 12 each. Although they had success at the plate, the Tigers struggled to muster up runs especially late in

the game. Tallassee did not sit on the loss for long, having to match up against Booker T. Washington soon after. In this game, Tallassee did not even have to swing the bat in a 16-0 win which featured just three hits. It was a rough day for the Golden Eagles in the pitching department, with the Tigers being the main benefactor to it. The bottom of the first inning featured nine walks, four

Reeltown crowned area champs after dominant tournament

STAFF REPORT

TPI Staff

It was never really a challenge for the Reeltown softball team on Saturday. Having already posted an undefeated area record heading into the Class 2A Area 6 tournament, the Rebels reminded everyone how they achieved it. First up was Loachapoka, which saw a premature ending after four innings of play at 17-1. Crisdan Dunn, to put it simply, was on fire at the plate. She finished three-

for-four with her at-bats — two of which went for home runs. Dunn would add three runs and four RBIs to her impressive number. However, she was not the only Reeltown batter who flourished in Game 1.

The Rebels kicked off the day with seven runs scored in the bottom of the first inning, with much of that success continuing. They racked up a monstrous total of 21 hits; Caroline Sutherlin, Kellie

— sending it deep to centerfield beyond the fence to put the first run on the board.

It was just one batter later that Smith would send his home run the distance, which proved to be just enough for the Rebels to walk away with Game 1.

The second game was much of the same with some

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

Hitting was key for the Tallassee Tigers in two games against W.S. Neal Thursday.

The Tigers garnered 10 hits in a 7-5 Game 1 victory before tallying 12 hits in the second game 11-1 win. The Tigers will now play at home against either Opp or Bibb County.

“They played solid today,” Tallassee coach John Goodman said. “For two games we hit the ball hard.”

In the first game, Thomas Lemmond got the key hit in the bottom of the sixth frame scoring two runs to break a 5-5 tie. Lemmond was 2-for3 in Game 1, scoring a run. He equaled his hitting at the plate in Game 2 and helped himself on the mound. Brue Milner 2-for-3 in Game 1 and

ROUND

4-for-5 in Game 2.

Overall Tallassee had 10 hits in Game 1 and 12 in Game 2.

In the nap cap, Tallassee was up 2-1 when the Tigers came to bat in the top of the sixth. Tallassee batters pushed five runs across the plate.

“We got runners on, started moving them around, started bunting a little bit, moving them around,” Goodman said. “Then we got a couple of big key hits and it just exploded from there. It’s contagious. When one starts, they all start.”

Jack Butler got the win for Tallassee in Game 1. He gave up 3 hits and a run over 5 and two-thirds innings. He struck out two and walked one.

In Game 2, Lemmond got the win on the mound giving up 7 hits and a run. In a complete game of work he struck

out five and walked one.

For the day Cash Gough had 2 hits and scored twice, Bryson Rigsby had 1 hit and scored three times. Chase Chumley was 4-for-7 scoring four times. Abram Whittington, Bry Hathcock and Brody Wisener also added hits on the day.

“We hit the ball hard today,” Goodman said. “We put pressure on them. We got great pitching and played solid defense.”

Bibb County is who Tallassee will face on Thursday in the third round, and if needed on Friday. Either way the next series is in Tallassee.

“We are sitting and waiting to see who,” Goodman said after the game. “It doesn’t matter. We will practice and work to make ourselves better doing the little things it takes to win.”

FILE TPI

The Reeltown baseball team sweeps G.W.

Tallassee softball finishes as runner-ups in

Tournament.

The Reeltown softball team sweeps

This was the first year where I was unable to watch the NFL Draft in the comfort of my home, but that does not mean I was not monitoring. Some moves I viewed as slam dunks while others left me with questions. I figured I could use this column to pick out some of the most notable moves.

Atlanta Falcons: I think everyone knew going into the draft that the Falcons needed to address one position above anything else — edge rushers. And, to their credit, they came away with two of the better edge players in the draft with Georgia’s Jalon Walker and Tennessee’s James Pearce Jr. as their first two selections. As a Georgia graduate, I have no beef whatsoever with Walker. I think he’s an amazing talent and he also ends an over decade-long streak of the Falcons not selecting a Bulldog with their first pick. I do have my concerns with Pearce though, he’s a bit leaner than you’d prefer an NFL edge rusher to be while being limited to pass-rushing

Continued from B1

situations with the Volunteers because of that lean frame. However, if we are to discuss whether or not they addressed a vital need, the Falcons did so.

New York Giants: When I got word that the Giants traded back into the first round, I almost immediately thought it was going to be Colorado’s Shedeur Sanders. But, in typical Giants fashion, they made a questionable choice going with Ole Miss’ Jaxson Dart. I guess more than anything the front office believed that the last Ole Miss quarterback they selected took them to two Super Bowl victories, so it had to work a second time. Even so, head coach Brian Daboll almost immediately came out and said that Russell Wilson was going to start Week 1. Where they do deserve credit is with picking

Abdul Carter from Penn State, he’s a legit prospect and if they can be happy about anything — it should be that pick.

Dallas Cowboys: I blame the Carolina Panthers for everything that transpired on Day 1 of the NFL Draft for taking Tetarioa McMillan. Because of that pick, it sent the Jones family into a scramble and made them do what they do best — pick a lineman. Cowboys have addressed either side of the trenches in four straight drafts, three of whom share the name Tyler and play on the offensive line. I understand that Zack Martin’s retirement left a massive hole on the offensive line, but the running back and wide receiver room also need a ton of help. As a Cowboys fan, I can’t say I’m shocked in all honesty. I have text messages to my college buddies saying I wanted McMillan or Texas’ Matthew Golden, but knew they were going to take Tyler Booker.

Jacksonville Jaguar: I felt I had to give a nod to my predecessor Henry Zimmer and

his favorite NFL team for their first-round selection. Heisman winner and Swiss army knife Travis Hunter is now a Jaguar, and honestly hats off to them for doing so. Hunter will be fun to watch alongside wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. who had a phenomenal rookie season while I imagine playing a role in the secondary. The rumblings of Liam Coen going big, more specifically on the offensive side, started to pick up a lot of steam heading into the draft with the possibility of Ashton Jeanty and talks of a trade. Although for a pretty steep price, the Jaguars accomplished that feat by bringing in the best overall player in the draft. What I am very intrigued to see is exactly what Hunter’s split is between the offensive and defensive side of the ball. I do think he’s athletic enough to play both sides of the ball at the NFL level, but not full-time. In my eyes, it’d be wide receiver mostly and in special situations on defense.

Philadelphia Eagles: To round out my notable picks I

went with the Eagles because they have a formula to their draft and yet all 31 other teams just let them do it. Their strategy consists of whoever is coming out of Georgia or Alabama that has fallen past their expected range. They did it with Devonta Smith, did it with Jalen Carter and heck even did it with Nakobe Dean in the third round — all of whom are viable starters on their team. This year it was Alabama’s Jihaad Campbell, who was regarded as one of the best at his positions and arguably a top 20 player in the draft. The Eagles got him at pick 31 after leap-frogging the Kansas City Chiefs to do so. As a sad and miserable Cowboys fan, I envy the Eagles year in and year out for doing the obvious move that takes them a step up each year. I can only hope one day that the Cowboys can do the same as they watch the rest of the NFC East

Lynn all chipped in with one hit.

additional fireworks in between. Ultimately Reeltown came away with the series 4-1 in Game 2.

TALLASSEE

Continued from B1

The Rebels put up seven hits on the board; Smith accounting for two of them to pair with his two runs and one RBI. Reed Wood, Brody Smith, Slade Carleton, Branton Spraggins and Preston

batters hit by pitches, two errors and all three hits — scoring all 16 runs in the first inning.

thus far into the playoffs.

ers rack up strikeouts, like in its series against G.W. Long. Reeltown will need a healthy blend of both playing styles if it hopes to come away with a win over a strong Cottonwood team. SWEEP

Hagan Lewis saw action on the mound, surrendering five hits and one run but struck out two batters through seven innings.

Next up for Reeltown

The Tigers then returned the next day in a rematch against the Knights, this time with the Tigers winning 9-6. An early seven-run lead ended up being a game-changer with the defense stepping up late in the game to limit the Knight from making a comeback. Cheyann Easterling and Kam Tate showed up big time accounting for six of the nine total hits the Tigers had on the day.

Tallassee then progressed to LAMP, where it felt eerily similar to the matchup against

REELTOWN

Continued from B1

Whitlow and Blair Johnston joined Dunn with three hits. Along with their performances in the batter’s box, everyone in the lineup recorded a hit.

The success carried over to the circle as well. Sydney Davis saw soul pitching

is the series against Cottonwood, a team that currently sits with a 21-6 record and a perfect 5-0 record in Class 2A Area 2. Cottonwood is coming off back-toback sweeps over Zion Chapel and Ranburne

Booker T. Washington — except this time with a little bit more fireworks. In the 17-2 win, Tallassee exploited the LAMP pitchers with its hit selection.

Reeltown has shown its ability to jump out to a fast start, like its series against Isabella. And, it’s the ability to play strong defense while letting the pitch -

The Tigers accumulated nine hits with Lila Kate Fulgham and Madison Raney finishing with two hits, while also taking advantage of the 11 walks that the Golden Tigers allowed to advance to the championship game. In the final bout, Tallassee faced off against Prattville Christian Academy, where the Tigers eventually fell 10-7. It was back-and-forth to start with each of the two trading runs through the first two frames. However, it was also where Prattville Christian put itself out in front.

duty for Reeltown, where she logged eight K’s while surrendering two hits and one run.

Reeltown would meet with Loachpoka once more in the championship bout — where the results remained the same.

In the 15-0 win, yet again, the game found itself ending prematurely in just three innings of play while the Rebels crossed the double-digit hit

mark again; this time with 17 total hits. Dunn’s at-bat did not take a step down either; hitting two more home runs to put her at four on the day. She wasn’t alone, this time Lilli Johnston joined in on the fun with a homer of her own in the second inning to pair alongside a double and a single. Sutherlin chipped in with three more hits to add to her impressive numbers as well.

The Tigers finished with seven hits in the championship game, two belonging to Easterling. Marlee Osborne, Reagan Easterwood, Tate, Alli Smith and Fulgham rounded out the hitting totals.

Although Tallassee was unable to come away with the championship title, it still punched its ticket to regionals as the area runner-up.

The pitching was just as good as the first game, Johnston saw the circle for all three innings — striking out five of the 12 batters she faced. She did not surrender a hit or a run either. Now, the Rebels ticket to regionals has been punched. Their opponent has yet to be determined as other teams close out their area slate, but one thing is for certain — the next time you see them it’ll be in Montgomery.

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Public Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF LARRY M. MCLEOD, DECEASED CASE NO.: 2025-130 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters Testamentary in the Estate of LARRY M. MCLEOD, deceased, having been granted to DARENDA M. MISSILDINE on April 23, 2025 by D. JASON BRITT, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons and parties having claims against said estate are required, within the time allowed by law, to present the same to the Court or the same will be barred.

DARENDA M. MISSILDINE

Public Notices

PERSONAL REPRESENTA-

TIVE OF THE ESTATE OF LARRY M. MCLEOD. DECEASED

Attorney of Record for Personal Representative: JAMES R. BOWLES ATTORNEY AT LAW 2 SOUTH DUBOIS AVENUE PO BOX 780397 TALLASSEE, ALABAMA 36078 334-283-6548

Tallassee Tribune: Apr. 30, May 7 and 14, 2025

EST/MCLEOD, L.

Do you have available jobs? Call 256.277.4219 to let others know about job opportunities at your business.

PUBLIC NOTICE

The City of Tallassee Planning Commission will have a Public Hearing/Meeting on Monday, May 5, 2025 @ 6:00PM at City Hall.

This Hearing is to change the Zoning property for Gilmer Ave, Parcel # 19 01 11 2 001 006.003 and Parcel # 19 01 11 2 001 006.004 from (HC) Highway Commercial to Highway Commercial (Conditional) use for Recreation Vehicle Park

Tallassee Tribune: Apr. 23 and 30, 2025 HEARING 05.05.25

Elmore County punches ticket to regionals

STAFF REPORT

TPI Staff

The Panthers are on their way to Montgomery.

The Elmore County softball team had a busy slate over the weekend, with the championship bout falling on Monday.

After securing a first-round bye in the Class 5A Area 6 tournament, Elmore County faced off against Beauregard.

It was a tight game, where both teams exchanged leads down to the final inning. Ultimately, it was the Hornets who pulled through with a seventh-inning run for the 4-3 victory.

Beauregard struck first in the top of the third, with Elmore County responding

with two runs from Addi Stephenson and Abigail Holt to put itself in front.

Beauregard added one run each in the top of the

Elmore County falls in series to UMS Wright

STAFF REPORT

TPI Staff

It was a hard-fought battle between two of the top dogs in Class 5A, but unfortunately, it was UMS-Wright who took the series; 2-1.

In Game 1, the Bulldogs pulled away in a low-scoring nailbiter 1-0 to open the series. The Panthers struggled to get people on base, finishing with two hits both belonging to Gage Davis. The Bulldogs pitching did not give them any favors either, Andy Purvis racked up 10 Ks while walking only three batters through seven innings of play.

UMS-Wright did get the better end of things in the hitting department with nine hits on the day, but defensively Elmore County made it difficult to get anything more than the one run it acquired.

However, in Game 2 it was almost the complete opposite. This time it was the Panthers dominating at the plate en route to a 10-5 victory to even the series out. They cataloged 11 hits, with Davis continuing his success with three hits, one run and three RBIs — one of those hits going for a home run. Shae Darnell joined in on the fun as well with three hits of his own for a triple and two singles. He’d also add two runs and two RBIs on the board.

It all came down to the final game of the series, where it was the Bulldogs coming out on top 3-2.

Elmore County found itself in the lead early with a two-run outing in the top of the second inning. However, that’s just about where its luck ran out. UMS-Wright got on the board with two runs of its own in the bottom of the fourth frame where it ended up being enough for the win.

The Panthers racked up five hits in the final game; Darnell picked up two more hits in Game 3. Shelton Darnell, Dallin Simpson and Evan Spence rounded off the hitting numbers with one each.

Although the season ended sooner than the Panthers would have liked, they finished the season at 25-11 and a perfect 4-0 in Class 5A Area 6. They’ll lose some notable seniors from this year’s squad, but the future is bright with the underclassmen who made way this year.

fourth and fifth, where again, Elmore County would respond with a run from Addison Hicks to put both in a deadlock heading

into the final stretch.

However, it was the Hornets who scored a crucial run in the top of the seventh via a ground out to advance the runner home.

Elmore County racked up five hits on the day; Hicks, Stephenson, Lalah Culpepper, Addy Peaden and Raevyn Barris all accounted for one hit.

Next up was Valley, where Elmore County soared to a massive 11-1 win through just five innings of action.

The Panthers opened the bottom of the first inning with three runs scored and did not look back. They’d post three runs scored in the first, second and third frames while accumulating 11 hits.

Culpepper went three-

for-four with her at-bats, including a triple and home run, while scoring three runs and logging five RBIs. Peaden also came away with a home run and a double in the game.

Bailey Kennedy saw most of the action in the circle, pitching four innings. She racked up four strikeouts and walked just one batter. She surrendered one hit and one run before Bailey Gardner came to close things out.

A win over Valley sent Elmore County to the championship game for a rematch against Beauregard, ending in a similar result to the first game with a 5-3 loss.

The Panther struck first with a run from Hicks to put them into an early

lead. However, the Hornets took advantage of some pitching miscues in the bottom of the third inning, scoring four runs. The Panthers walked four straight batters, leading to three of the runs.

Elmore County came away with two more runs in the fourth and sixth frame, but the Beauregard lead was too much to overcome. Hicks, Culpepper, Kayden Edwards, Addie Patterson and Holt all notched a hit under their belt in the championship game.

Although Elmore County finished as the runner-up in the area, it still secured a placement in the regional tournament, which kicked off Monday in Montgomery.

Parents want increased support for band, wrestling in Eclectic

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

The last Elmore County Board of Education roadshow presenting education funding issues and priorities brought questions in Eclectic.

While parents were supportive of a new high school and understood how it might take a while because of funding, their issues were more immediate. Parents questioned superintendent Richard Dennis about support of band uniforms and instruments, an adequate wrestling practice space and coaches who do not teach.

Dennis said the system can aid in issues such as uniforms and equipment, it can’t fully fund them.

“You have the largest band program in the county here at Elmore County High School,” Dennis said. “Costs are a huge factor there. So what we’re trying to do is provide funding to buy instruments that individual families can’t afford to purchase for themselves.”

He pointed out the band program at Stanhope Elmore High

School was the last band to get new uniforms in Elmore County. Dennis said the system aided in fundraising by the band program and its booster program to raise necessary funds. He said similar things can happen in Eclectic.

Dennis said state funding only provides for one music teacher and the board of education most often supplements with extra funding to provide additional personnel.

Parents noted new fields were built for softball, baseball and football, which were completed mostly with funding from the Elmore County commission. He said between the projects in Eclectic and Holtville, the commission put in $10 million in funding and the school system only $1.25 million.

One parent questioned the condition of the old new gym used for practice by the ECHS wrestling program among other teams. She said the floor is covered with an old artificial turf that is covered in tobacco spit stains.

“They are wrestling on that,” the parent said.

Dennis said that is more of a maintenance issue and would have staff look at removing the material. Another parent said some coaches are not available for their real job teaching.

“There is one who has taken on four or five things,” the parent said. “They are hardly in the classroom teaching. They are hardly available for education. What is the first mission of the school?”

Dennis asked the parent to take the issue up with principal Jason Eason and if necessary secondary schools director Dr. Jamie McGowan. Dennis said in eight years supplements have increased tremendously for athletics, fine arts and more, but getting more teachers is a state issue as well.

“We can only fund so many from the local level,” Dennis said. “It is the reason we have started looking at contract positions for some of the coaching.”

Taking coaching responsibilities off teachers could free up some teachers in coaching slots to have more time dedicated to classroom duties.

SAMUEL HIGGS | TPI

Elmore County’s Addi Stepenson rounds the bases against Beaurgard in the first game of the area tournament.

FILE | TPI

The Elmore County baseball team drops series to UMSWright in the second round of the AHSAA Class 5A playoffs.

CLIFF WILLIAMS TPI

Elmore County Schools superintendent Richard Dennis goes over the system’s finances at a community meeting in Eclectic. Some parents had questions about time for teachers in classrooms and practice space.

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

shot and injured on

When officers arrived, they found Allen suffering from a gunshot wound to the right arm and in the pelvis. Manning said he attended Allen’s autopsy and the

By ABIGAIL MURPHY

Multimedia Reporter

didacy for reelection, Hall said, “Over the last four years we’ve made many improvements within the City; however, there is much left to get accomplished.”

but Tallassee City Schools have been ahead of the curve for years. Freeing our Classrooms of Unnecessary Screens for Safety (FOCUS) Act has passed in the House and Senate and is awaiting Tallassee Schools to revise cell phone policy for FOCUS Act

FORMER MARCHING PRIDE MEMBERS SURPRISE RETIRING DIRECTOR

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

Sometimes, the smallest acts of encouragement can make the biggest impact on others.

CLIFF WILLIAMS TPI

“He always told me that I wouldn’t be able to do something and I always defied the odds,” Dillard said. “He said I couldn’t play the flute, so I played

Emily Scott Dillard, second from left, plays the piccolo Thursday night.

Hickory Street.

Tallassee City Council.

Obituaries

MORGAN SANDERS

Morgan Sanders, age 67, a resident of Loganville, Georgia, passed away March 31, 2025. He was born on May 1, 1957. He is preceded in death by his father, William B. Sanders; mother, Etta Sanders; and brothers, James Taylor and Roy Sanders. He

Police Reports

TALLASSEE POLICE DEPARTMENT

APRIL 27

is survived by his significant other, Tammy Jones; sisters, Patricia S. Sides and Mary Luster (James); brother, John B. Sanders (Becky); sister-in-law, Vanessa Sanders; and several nieces and nephews. Morgan loved to bowl and fish. He loved God, his family and others. He

• A Black male was arrested on Barnett Boulevard.

• Reckless driving was reported on James Street.

• Assistance was given to a citizen on Barnett Boulevard.

• Shots fired into an unoccupied vehicle were reported on Hickory Street.

• A noise complaint was reported on East Patton Street.

APRIL 26

• Assistance was given to another agency on Friendship Road.

• Gunfire was reported on Hickory Street.

• Assistance was given to another agency on Jordan Avenue.

• A noise complaint was reported on McNeal Street.

• A hit and run motor vehicle accident was reported on Hickory Street.

• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Main Street.

• Assistance was given to a citizen on Cannon Road and Guesthouse Drive.

• A domestic dispute was reported on Cannon Road.

• Assistance was given to a citizen on Claire Street.

• A Black male was arrested during a domestic incident on Ashurst Avenue.

APRIL 25

• A white male was arrested on Thompson Avenue.

• Assistance was given to a citizen on Third Avenue.

especially loved his caregivers, Lashonn and Dorothy. Liberty Baptist Church, 574 Liberty Rd, Tallassee, AL, will be conducting a celebration of life service on Saturday, May 3, 2025 at 2:00 pm. Rev. George Smith will be officiating. “O death, where is thy sting? O

• Assistance was given to a citizen on Weldon Drive.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Highway 229.

• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• A verbal fight was reported on McNeal Street.

• Assistance was given to a citizen on Gilmer Avenue.

APRIL 24

• A juvenile complaint was reported on Rickey Lane.

• Assistance was given to a citizen on Barnett Boulevard.

• A juvenile complaint was reported on Ashurst Avenue.

• A domestic incident was reported on Third Avenue.

• A stolen vehicle was reported on Burt Mill Road. APRIL 22

• A domestic incident was reported on Tallassee Highway.

• Assistance was given to another agency on Gilmer Avenue.

• A welfare check was conducted on Notasulga Road.

• A Black female was arrested during a domestic incident on West James Street.

• Assistance was given to a citizen on Barnett Boulevard.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Central Boulevard.

• A white female was arrested on Barnett Boulevard.

• A motor vehicle accident with no injuries was reported on Jordan Avenue.

• A Black male was arrested on Barnett Boulevard.

• Assistance was given to a motor-

grave, where is thy victory?” I Corinthians 15:55. Online condolences may be posted at www.linvillememorial. com.

Linville Memorial Funeral Home and Crematory, Eclectic, Alabama

ist on Barnett Boulevard.

• A motor vehicle accident with no injuries was reported on North Ann Avenue.

• Criminal mischief was reported on Notasulga Road.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on North Ann Avenue. APRIL 21

• Gun shots were reported on Third Avenue.

• Assistance was given to a citizen on Gilmer Avenue.

• Harassing communications was reported on James Street.

• A verbal fight was reported on James Street.

• Animal control was requested on Macedonia Road.

• Assistance was given to a citizen on Barnett Boulevard.

• Criminal mischief was reported on Sunwood Court.

• Animal control was requested on Sims Avenue.

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

• An abandoned vehicle was reported on Highway 229.

• Theft was reported on Barnett Boulevard.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Gilmer Avenue.

APRIL 20

• Reckless driving was reported on Third Avenue.

• An animal complaint was reported on Sims Avenue.

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

• An animal complaint was reported on Hillcrest Street.

‘Sleeping’ passenger still in jail for drug trafficking

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

It was last month when a traffic stop in Tallassee turned into a drug trafficking arrest for two Montgomery residents.

Elmore County Sheriff’s deputies clocked a vehicle travelling 76 mph in a 55 mph zone near GKN in Tallassee. When they stopped the vehicle, they found Terrance Carr, 43, driving and Timothy Sanders, 30, in the passenger seat. The events of the arrest played out during a preliminary hearing in front of Elmore County District Court Judge Glen Goggans.

A deputy testified he spoke to the driver and noticed Sanders appeared to be asleep.

“I asked the driver if he was OK?,” the deputy testified.

The deputy took the driver’s ID and went back to the patrol vehicle to run it through dispatch. A deputy went to the passenger side of the vehicle and noticed Sanders open his eyes as if to check to see if everything was all clear. The deputy asked for the passenger’s ID as well.

“The driver then started to smoke a Black & Mild,” the deputy said. “He blew the smoke in my face.”

The deputy testified that it was an indication of narcotics. Law enforcement requested the men get out of the car and Sanders put his left hand in his pocket.

“He refused to pull it out,” the deputy said. “I thought it might be hiding a weapon.”

When Sanders did remove his hand, it revealed 11 oxycodone pills weighing in excess of 4 grams.

The discovery gave the deputies probable cause to search the car. In the center console, 8 grams of cocaine and 8 grams of crack were found.

Sanders made a statement to the deputy on the scene about who the drugs belonged to.

“It’s mine,” the deputy said Sanders said. “Let the driver go.”

Sanders was charged with trafficking opium, possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Sanders had a $1,531,000 cash bond. He requested it be reduced to a regular $250,000 bond.

“I’m not going to do that,” Goggans said. “It will remain the same.”

Court hearing reveals more details about Tallassee chase

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

A Duluth, Georgia, man was in front of Elmore County District Court Judge Glen Goggans for a preliminary hearing and seeking a bond reduction.

On April 2, Elmore County Sheriff’s depu -

ties began to pursue a vehicle driven by Jason Downs, 35, of Duluth, Georgia, on Rifle Range Road after officers with the Tallassee Police Department had called off the pursuit. The vehicle had already hit two Tallassee police cars and attempted to hit another.

“The vehicle was traveling on the grass on Rifle Range Road,” a deputy testified. “I initiated a traffic stop.”

The vehicle didn’t stop and traveled erratically with speeds reaching 100 mph at times.

“He brake checked me,” the deputy said.

The incident caused about $5,000 in damage to the patrol vehicle.

The driver drove on the wrong side of the road and narrowly avoided head-on collisions.

“He evidently lost control and crashed into another vehicle,” See COURT, Page A3

SANDERS

Humane Society of Elmore County News

Local shelters celebrate National Adopt a Shelter Pet Day

By REA CORD HSEC Executive Director

Wednesday April 30 is

Of course, the first thing we hope happens for the lost pets coming into the Humane Society of Elmore County is

Pet of the Week - Dory

The Humane Society of Elmore County’s adoption fees are $100 for dogs and $50 for cats under 1

RECOVERED

pelvis and traveled across the body.

“It was the fatal shot,” Manning testified.

Manning said the videos and witness statements line up. Hughley and a female were chasing each other and came close to Allen’s car.

“The victim approaches the female,” Manning said.

“Then the defendant and (Allen) were almost touching shoulders.”

Officers spoke with Hughley Saturday night about 90 minutes after the incident. Hugley admits to a

If you are interested in meeting

domestic altercation, chasing a female around and confronting the victim.

“He said the victim pulled a firearm and he acted in self-defense,” Manning testified.

Hughley was allowed to leave.

It showed Hughley pulling a weapon and firing at Allen. The victim then moved along his car, retrieved a weapon and fired back at Hughley.

the deputy said. “He was stuck. He would not get out of the vehicle after multiple times telling him to get out.”

Deputies removed Downs from the vehicle. He then briefly ran from law enforcement and was tased.

hood.

After seeing the video, authorities contacted Hughley again, and again he voluntarily came to the police department. This time Hughley slightly changed his statement to the police.

“He said (Allen) was pulling at his waistband,”

Manning said. “He said he, ‘Knew how he was,’ and chose to shoot.”

Manning said Hughley’s statement to him said there was a disagreement between the two over a firearm.

Hughley said he lost his weapon from Saturday night while fleeing the scene. Manning said police have canvassed the area and have not found a handgun.

Authorities also recovered more than 30 shell casings from within 200 feet of where the incident took place. Manning said forensics would determine which ones were from Sat-

urday’s shooting.

It was also determined Hughley was out of jail on bond in Macon County. There he is accused of shooting into an occupied vehicle with a Glock 26 9mm handgun. A round struck someone in the thigh.

On July 3, 2024, Hughley was charged with discharging a gun into an occupied building or vehicle, first-degree assault, menacing and reckless endangerment. He posted a $69,000 bond.

The Macon County District Attorney’s Office has filed a motion to revoke Hughley’s bond in the case.

“He’s out on bond for basically the same thing in Macon County,” Johnson said. “Only that person lived.”

Goggans denied a bond for Hughley after hearing the testimony and arguments Tuesday morning.

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

Former tag clerk arrested for using position for personal gain

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

One former employee of the Tallapoosa County Probate Judge Office has been arrested and an investigation is ongoing.

by law.” According to court records, a prosecutor from the Alabama Attorney General’s Office has been assigned the case.

Downs was taken to an area hospital for treatment and drug screen. “He had THC in his system,” the deputy said. Downs was charged with driv -

Goggans bound the case over to the grand jury and left Downs’ bond the same — $47,000 cash. COURT

Our View Opinion

Spring has sprung

Take the warm weather as an opportunity to have new experiences with friends, loved ones and family members.

Bring back the 90s rom-com

Ilove many movies and book genres, but one that I think is excelling in the book world but floundering in the movie world are romantic comedies.

ABIGAIL MURPHY Multimedia Reporter

late 2000s, the comedy side leaned more into slapstick or physical comedy.

Abigail Murphy is the Dadeville beat reporter for Tallapoosa Publishers Inc. She can be reached at abigail.murphy@ alexcityoutlook.com.

The future of public television hangs in the balance

In May, 1961, Alabama Public Television celebrated its 6th birthday as the nation’s first educational television network. Across the country, public television signals were beginning to blink on in those still-early days of TV, but the pace wasn’t fast enough for Newton Minow.

Obituaries:

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

Minnow went so far in his May speech to the National Association of Broadcasters that year as to lecture them about the content of their emerging industry — calling its program offerings a “vast wasteland” of boredom. He urged broadcasters to do better. And they did. Within six years a national system of educational television was organized by Congress and the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) was created. In just a couple of years we met Fred Rogers in his new TV “neighborhood,” and we all began humming the theme song to “Sesame Street” as we welcomed new friends Bert and Ernie to TV’s expanding program mix. Many other significant successes in television programming followed. The CPB has served us well.

Today, we face a crisis with public television — and the issue is the funding it so desperately needs. The president has threatened to reduce or even eliminate funding for public

television and public radio, and the villain in this drama, as in so many dramas these days, is politics.

Some voices in power don’t like some CPB programs. Other voices in positions of power believe certain programming is vital to a healthy mix of ideas in the TV marketplace. We struggle to agree, or to even try to find a compromise.

For the 22nd year in a row, public television was ranked last year as the nation’s most trusted institution, with 76% of Americans agreeing that public television provides an excellent value to communities. Public media has earned the broad support of the American people, across the political spectrum, including 65% of those who voted for President Trump who think public television is either adequately funded or underfunded, according to a recent YouGov survey. That bipartisan support in the public has been consistently reflected in Congress, which approved funding for public media just a few weeks ago in the final fiscal year 2025 funding bill.

I strongly believe that, were Newton Minow alive today, he would join forces with the nation’s public broadcasters to preserve — not destroy –- this critical funding for public television, and that he would be a proponent of the variety of programs offered on public stations today. In that spirit, I strongly urge Congress to reject any destructive proposals to rescind, cut or eliminate public media funding.

Barry Copeland is the chair of the Alabama Education Television Foundation Authority.

• Nationally produced educational programming would face deep cuts, as would locally produced, Alabama-specific programs. In-person teacher training programs would not be exempt.

Tommy Thweatt remembered by the community

STAFF REPORT

TPI Staff

Beloved community member Tommy Thweatt died April 18 at the age of 58. His funeral service was held on Tuesday as many gathered to mourn his death. Thweatt is remembered by many as a proud Dadeville alum and longtime chief school financial officer for the Tallapoosa County Board of Education. Thweatt was born in Tallapoosa County on June 3, 1966, and later went to college at Jacksonville State University.

“This is a profound loss for our system, but his legacy will live on,” Tallapoosa County superintendent Casey Davis said in a statement.

Schools

“He has served our district with dedication and passion for many years. His impact will be felt at all of our schools for many years to come.”

As part of the DHS class of 1984, he continued to cheer on and support Dadeville Athletics for much of his life. Thweatt was also

remembered for having a strong sense of humor, being a bit of a prankster himself. He enjoyed traveling and attending concerts in his free time.

“Tommy had a heart for

the children and always went above and beyond to meet the needs of our children and our students,” Davis said in the statement. “Words are not enough to recognize and honor his service to our district for over 25 years.”

On Tuesday, the Tallapoosa County Board of Education held a special-called meeting to appoint assistant chief school financial officer Mike Gardner as interim chief school financial officer.

“Our office is a tight, close family, and the past two days have seemed like a week,” Davis said at the meeting.

“Please keep this office in your thoughts and prayers as they go through this, and I know that everyone will keep Mr. Gardner in your thoughts and prayers. I cannot thank Mr. Gardner enough personally for his willingness to step in during this time.”

Video boards at Tallassee, Holtville and ECHS approved

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

Video boards are coming to high school football fields in Elmore County.

At its Monday meeting, the Elmore County Commission approved video boards to be installed at J.E. Hot O’Brien Stadium in Tallassee and at Elmore County High School and Holtville High School.

“In March, the commission approved the video boards as additional Quality of Life projects,” Elmore County engineer Luke McGinty said. “It was a little higher than expected.”

The commission approved $150,000 to be spent at both Elmore County and Stanhope Elmore high schools for video boards with the Elmore County Board of Education kicking in $50,000 for each project.

A new video board is also coming to J.E. Hot O’Brien Stadium in Tallassee. The commission approved $150,000 in funding and the City of Tallassee Board of Education is allotting $80,000 to the project.

The commission is also funding $30,000 in design services associated with the projects.

McGinity said the extra funds will come from funds set aside in a bond issue for overruns, savings from other quality of life projects and value engineering.

Commissioner Henry Hines sang the praises of Elmore County High School as the commission recognized the school for its efforts in the recent county-wide cleanup.

Hines attended a principal’s meeting and challenged them to participate, but ECHS went above and beyond. Hines said every high school in the county participated along with some middle and elementary schools. More than 50 other groups took part as well.

ECHS principal Jason Eason spoke to the commission about the school’s efforts, especially its athletic programs.

“They are the first people our community sees,” Eason said. “We had every team participate.”

Eason said ECHS is the county’s smallest school but had more than 200 of the school’s 485 students picking up more than 200 bags

of litter.

IN OTHER ACTION THE ELMORE COUNTY COMMISSION:

• Passed a proclamation for Sexual Assault Awareness Month.

• Passed a resolution for Fair Housing Month.

• Approved the minutes of the April 10 meeting.

• Approved the memorandum of warrants in the amount of $3.914.680.81 for March 29 to April 18.

• Appointed Debbie Jones and Dr. Jeff Langham to the Horseshoe Bend Library Board.

• Authorized the chair to execute necessary documents to transfer county owned property in The Marketplace at 17 Springs to The Marketplace at 17 Springs Cooperative District.

The Elmore County Administrative Complex will close Monday, May 26 in observance of Memorial Day. The next Elmore County Commission meeting is scheduled for 5 p.m. Monday, May 12.

CommunityCalendar

Demolition on Reeltown Elementary School begins

Council approves sale of nonvehicles

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

pay and pick up the vehicles,” Mayor Sarah Hill said. To ease almost constant repairs of a water line down E.B. Payne Senior Drive from downtown to Southside Middle School and on to the industries down Highway 229, the council approved a contract to begin design and the bidding process for the installation of a new line along Alabama Power right of ways. The path avoids rock in roadways that creates most of the issues.

The council voted to cancel the May 26 meeting as it falls on Memorial Day.

The next meeting of the Tallassee City Council is scheduled for 6 p.m. Monday, May 12.

APRIL 24 -MAY 10

UNNECESSARY FARCE: The Wetumpka Depot Players are presenting Unnecessary Farce from April 24 to May 10. Go to www.wetumpkadepot. com for more information and tickets.

SATURDAY, APRIL 26

FATHER-DAUGHTER and MOTHER SON DANCE: The Redland Elementary School PTO is hosting its Legendary Royal Ball from 5 to 7 p.m. Saturday, April 26. Mothers are welcome to bring their sons. Fathers can bring their daughters to the Redland Elementary School cafeteria. Tickets are $15 and can be purchased at www.redlandelem.ptboard.com.

SATURDAY, MAY 3

WOMEN’S CONFERENCE:

Lighthouse Ministries of Central Alabama presents Edify Women’s Conference. The conference will focus on worship and exploring God’s word. The cost is $20 for early birds or $30 general admission. The conference will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. May 3 at the Eclectic Ballroom.

SUNDAY, MAY 4

CHURCH ANNIVERSARY: Blue Ridge Baptist Church will be host-

ing its 60th anniversary at 11 a.m. May 4 in Wetumpka. Special music by Reborn Harmony and Clarence Mann. There will be a message, testimonials and a meal.

SATURDAY, MAY 10

MAY MARKET: Eclectic the Beautiful will host its fourth annual May Market from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. May 10. It is a fundraiser for the organization and will feature more than 75 vendors ranging from food, crafts, artwork, jewelry, paintings, wreaths, bows and more. There will also be food vendors.

CRAWFISH BOIL & MUSIC FESTIVAL: The Reeltown

Volunteer Fire Department is hosting a crawfish boil and music festival beginning at 2 p.m. Saturday May 10 at 19700 Highway 49 South Notasulga. Music will include Jeff Bates, Andy Griggs, Russell Craig, Devin Moon, Jeff and the Johnsons and Shades of Gray. Admission is $35 and food is separate.

BATTLE OF THE BRUSHES: Sunshine and Pixie Dust is hosting Battle of the Brushes at the Wetumpka Depot Saturday, May 10. It is a live painting competition. For more information go to www. wetumpkasbattleofthebrushes.com.

JULY 7-11

YOUTH THEATER CAMP: The Wetumpka Depot Players is hosting a musical theater camp for ages 8 to 15 July 7 to 11. Send an email to kmeanor@wetumpkadepot.com for more information.

JULY 14-27

YOUTH THEATER CAMP: The Wetumpka Depot Players is hosting a two-week teen intensive camp for ages 13 to 18. Send an email to kmeanor@wetumpkadepot.com for more information.

SUBMITTED TPI

Tallapoosa County

Chief Financial Officer Tommy Thweatt died April 18.

ABIGAIL MURPHY | TPI

The partial demolition project has started on Reeltown Elementary School. During the Tallapoosa County Board of Education work session this month, superintendent Casey Davis said there are plans to save some of the bricks from the old school to be used in a possible memorial project later down the road.