By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
By CLIFF WILLIAMS
GRADUATES
By ABIGAIL MURPHY
Reporter
Multimedia
raduation is right around the corner and it’s a cause for celebration.
Reeltown High School held its annual senior awards program Friday morning. Seniors were recognized for scholarships as well as academic and athletic achievements. The top 10 seniors academically were announced as valedictorian Will Cox, salutatorian Christian Jackson, Cruise Johnson, Finn Henderson, Harrison
Renfroe, Megan Giles, Jacob Hammonds, Gabe Cannon, Sydney Davis and Dylan Bryant. Ryleigh Whitaker was recognized for Girls State, Cruise Johnson for Boys State and Megan Giles for HOBY Leadership. Then for class awards, All Around Boy went to Cruise Johnson, All Around Girl went to Ryleigh Whitaker, the sportsmanship award went to Tae Martin, the school spirit award went to Jack Darnell and the leadership award went to Cruise Johnson. During the program, ETS,
Honor Roll, WorkKeys, student council, FCA, Beta Club, CTE Cords athletic and band seniors were all recognized. For scholarships, the AHSAA Bryant Jordan Scholarship went to Renfroe. Scholarships to Auburn University were given to Will Cox, Christian Jackson and Cruise Johnson.
The Benjamin and Roberta Russell Foundation Scholarship went to Whitaker. Hagan Lewis received Carolyn C. Brown Memorial Scholarship. Jacob
MURPHY | TPI Reeltown assistant principal Alisha Fomby, left, hands out a Career Tech award.
Obituaries
SARAH JEWEL CAMP SHORT
Sarah Jewel Camp
Short, age 88, of Rogers, Arkansas passed away Saturday, May 3, 2025 in Rogers. She was born February 8, 1937 in East Tallassee, Alabama to Alfred Banks Camp and Leila Mae Rayfield Camp. Sarah was a Christian and a member of Bland Chapel Church in Rocky Branch, Arkansas. She retired in 1991 as Chief of Finance in Department of Defense for the United States Government. Sarah was a friend to anyone in need and made sure to go out of her way to help. She wanted all to know just how much she loved her children and their spouses. Sarah was known to work and pray for her family’s
Police Reports
TALLASSEE POLICE DEPARTMENT
MAY 11
well-being. She enjoyed studying scripture, reading, and going to lunch with family and friends. She was genuinely loved by all who knew her and was always a joy to be around.
Sarah is preceded in death by her parents; her husband Ronald Gene Short; three sisters, Mary Rebecca Camp, Ethel Weatherly Camp, and Evelyn Ruth Camp; three brothers, Alfred B. Camp II, Harry Camp, and Roy Taylor Camp; and one daughter-in-law, Deborah Courson Warren.
• Assistance was given to a citizen on Gilmer Avenue.
MAY 10
• A fight in progress was reported on Second Avenue.
• Assistance was given to a citizen on Muskogee Trail.
• A fight in progress was reported on Jordan Avenue.
• Assistance was given to a citizen on Barnett Boulevard.
• An assault was reported on Gilmer Avenue.
• Suspicious activity was reported on Griffith Lane.
MAY 9
• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Delta Road.
• A welfare check was conducted on Hicks Store Road.
• Assistance was given during a medical call on North Ann Avenue.
• Harassment was reported on Bucks Pocket Road.
MAY 8
• A welfare check was conducted in Burnt Springs Trailer Court.
• Theft was reported on Macedonia Road.
• Assistance was given to a citizen on Sims Avenue and West Main Street
• A welfare check was conducted on West Main Street.
• Assistance was given to a citizen on Barnett Boulevard.
Sarah is survived by one daughter, Katharine W. Flanders and husband Dr. Thomas D. Flanders of Murrells Inlet, South Carolina; four sons, Ronald Warren of Tallassee, Alabama, Steven L. Warren and wife Kay of Rogers, Arkansas, Keith S. Warren and wife Pamela of Wetumpka, Alabama, and Mark Warren and wife Lisa of Crawford, Alabama; seventeen grandchildren, Rebecca Spear, Eric Warren, Brent Warren, Dr. Aaron W. Flanders, Dr. Steven T. Flanders, Julie Carpenter, Adam Warren, Jeremy Nevels, Daniel Warren, Nicholas Warren, Ryan Hicks, Gregory Hicks, Holly Autrey, Nicholas Warren, Jesse Warren, Matthew Warren,
• A tree was reported in the roadway on Macedonia Road.
• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Gilmer Avenue.
• Assistance was given to a citizen on Second Avenue. MAY 7
• Reckless driving was reported on Barnett Boulevard.
• An assault was reported on Rushing Circle.
• Trespassing was reported on Wall Street.
• Assistance was given to a citizen on Central Boulevard.
• Assistance was given to a motorist on Gilmer Avenue. MAY 6
• Assistance was given to a motorist on Central Boulevard.
• Assistance was given during a medical call on Eighth Street.
• Assistance was given to a citizen on Barnett Boulevard.
• Harassing communications was reported on Seventh Street.
• A domestic dispute was reported on Gilmer Avenue.
• Trespassing was reported on Stroud Street.
• A Black male was arrested during a theft call on Gilmer Avenue.
• An animal complaint was reported on Hillcrest Street.
• Assistance was given to another agency on Central Boulevard.
MAY 5
• A motor vehicle accident with no injuries was reported on Central Boulevard.
and Blake Johnston; and numerous great grandchildren.
Graveside service will be 11:00 A.M., Saturday, May 10, 2025 at Rosehill Cemetery in Tallassee, Alabama, with Brother Jan Akins officiating, with burial at Rosehill Cemetery.
Serving as pallbearers will be Thomas D. Flanders DDS, G. Ronald Warren Jr., Steven L. Warren, Keith S. Warren, Mark A. Warren, and Jesse Warren.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Circle of Life Hospice Care, www. nwacircleoflife.com.
To leave an online memorial visit www.shafferfuneralhomeweb.com.
• A civil disturbance was reported on Lee Street.
• Assistance was given to a motorist on Gilmer Avenue.
• Reckless driving was reported on Freeman Avenue.
• A welfare check was conducted on Hornsby Drive.
• A Black male was arrested on U.S. Highway 231.
• Assistance was given to a motorist on Hillcrest Street.
• An animal complaint was reported on North Ashurst Avenue and Sims Avenue.
• An abandoned vehicle was reported on Dorman Avenue.
• A juvenile complaint was reported on Notasulga Road.
• The roadway was reported blocked on Wallace Drive.
• A civil dispute was reported on Notasulga Road.
• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Notasulga Road.
• An animal complaint was reported on Willow Street.
• An abandoned vehicle was reported on Gilmer Avenue.
• A noise complaint was reported on Riverhills Court. May 4
• Assistance was given to a citizen on Washington Street.
• A domestic dispute was reported on Tallassee Highway.
• Assistance was given to another agency on Taylor Road.
• Assistance was given to a citizen on Barnett Boulevard.
Chambers partner for Employ Elmore job sites
By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
The Millbrook Area Chamber of Commerce and the Wetumpka Area Chamber of Commerce have partnered with the District of Elmore County to create a job bank of available area jobs.
The idea is to connect those needing or wanting employment with those businesses that need employees.
“It is just a great opportunity to serve our members and the community,” Wetumpka
PRISON Continued from A1
Area Chamber of Commerce executive director Shellie Phelps said. “We are pleased to be able to do this.”
Phelps and Millbrook
Area Chamber of Commerce president Brenda Dennis said the idea of a job bank wasn’t new but Elmore County District Court Judge Ben Baxley came to them wanting to serve the children of Elmore County. Baxley said some parents complain of not being able to find a job.
“Often, non-custodial parents appear in
Douglasville, Georgia, was apprehended in Union City, Georgia. He was charged in Alabama state court with second-degree rape, four counts of second-degree sodomy, electronic solicitation of a minor, interference with child custody, facilitating travel/ enticing a child for immoral purposes and traveling to meet a child for an unlawful sex act.
At the recommendation of the Alabama Attorney General’s Office, the case was presented to the U.S. Attorney’s Office to prosecute in federal court.
“To simplify things, it made sense to allow it to happen,” Tallassee inves-
my court and allege that they are unable to find employment to earn income with which to meet child support obligations,” Baxley said. “This often leads to incarceration. Of course it is difficult, if not impossible, to find employment while in jail.”
Phelps, Dennis and Baxley are all aware of businesses who need employees.
“The problem is linking these unemployed defendants with those potential employers,”
tigator Chase Wilks said. “There were crimes in two states. It would have been very difficult to prosecute in state court because it crossed state lines.”
According to federal court documents, the case was presented to a federal grand jury and indicted in October 2024. Williams was indicted on one count each of production of child pornography, transportation of a minor, coercion and enticement and transfer of obscene matter to a minor.
Earlier this year, Williams pled guilty to transportation of a minor and coercion and enticement.
As part of the plea, Williams disclosed his crimes.
The federal indictment said there were two victims under the age of 18, but Williams’ plea references only one. According to court records, he stated communication began with a
Baxley said. Both chambers have a job postings tab at the top of their websites and employers have instructions on adding their job opportunities to the sites.
“It makes for an easy way to help all the way around,” Phelps said. “That’s what chambers do, make connections for everyone. It helps us all.”
Jobs from chamber members can be found at www.business.millbrookchamber.org/jobs and at www.business.wetumpkachamber.org/jobs.
12-year-old Elmore County resident via cellphone and Instagram messages in December 2023. It continued into January 2024. “She was coerced and enticed to engage in sexual activity,” the court document states. “Through multiple messages over approximately a month’s time, the defendant persuaded (the victim) to allow him to come pick her up and discussed his desire for sexual activity with her on multiple occasions.”
Williams traveled to Tallassee on Jan. 8, 2024, and transported the victim to Georgia. Court documents state he engaged in sexual activity with the victim.
Williams will serve five years of probation following his 20-year federal prison sentence and must register as a sex offender.
SHORT
ECHS’ Edwards, SE’s Beyer overall Sewell winners
By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
Student-athletes and leaders gathered last Tuesday for the 21st Annual Joe Sewell Memorial Award as Elmore County’s Outstanding Christian athletes and leaders were recognized.
The award is named for Elmore County native and Major League Baseball Hall of Famer Joe Sewell. This year Elmore County High School’s Kayden Elizabeth Edwards took home the award as the girls overall winner and Stanhope Elmore’s Colby Bant Beyer was named the boys overall winner.
Both noted how special it was to be recognized among the elite high school student athletes in Elmore County.
“There are some amazing people that have won this and there are amazing candidates,” Edwards said. “I was shocked to hear my name. I’m so grateful.”
Beyer added, “It means a lot. Joe Sewell
was a very big, meaningful character around here.”
Sewell is a Titus native and still holds MLB records of fewest strikeouts during a 14-year, 7,132 game career at 114. He also holds the single season record for fewest strikeouts.
While the award recognizes students’ achievements to mirror those of Sewell, it seeks to honor students’ character.
Sewell was a quiet man of character and conviction. During the Great Depression he brought baseballs, gloves and bats back to the children of Elmore County. Additionally, he was a coach in the New York Yankees organization and also coached Alabama to an SEC title in 1968.
Barry Mask and Jeff Chapman came up with the award and approached the Sewell family. They wanted to recognize high school seniors who emulated Sewell on and off the field.
Each school in Elmore County can nominate up to four students as finalists. They are interviewed by the Sewell Award board.
“There’s 10 of us to start out with at the school level,” Edwards said. “We go through an interview and application process. They screen us. It was a lot of work, especially by our counselor.”
Edwards said the school counselor made it easier when she spoke to board members during the official interview process.
Beyer was an all-county and all-state punter and kicker. He also excelled at golf and soccer.
“But this award is mostly about my academics and other offthe-field things,” Beyer said. “I’ve been able to keep a good GPA, good ACT scores. I have been able to do all that and serving my community; that’s really the most important thing, and being able to show the word
RHS hopes to take students on tour of DC
By ABIGAIL MURPHY Multimedia Reporter
It’s been several years since Reeltown High School students have gone on a trip like this, but planning is in the works for an upcoming trip to the nation’s capital.
The trip will be open to incoming juniors and seniors to spend four days in Washington D.C. Trip advisor
Jarrod Wooten said he is still in the early stages of planning and gauging interest right now. Last Tuesday, the school held an interest meeting for students who wish to go on the trip; how-
ever, there’s still time to sign up — students who were not at the meeting can still get information if they are interested.The itinerary for the trip includes spending a full day at the Smithsonian, seeing the famous monuments around the city and touring the capitol building.
Wooten said there are also other trips through this program like Boston and New York that could be possible in the future if students and parents are interested.
“Instead of just seeing something in a textbook or on a YouTube video, we want to let them see this
stuff firsthand,” Wooten said. “When you can go to these places and see these things, I think it helps it become a little more important, a little more real. Technology can do a lot of things, you got the virtual field trips and that type of stuff, but to me, it’s still a big deal if you can see those things live.”
The Washington D.C. trip is expected to take place in the summer of 2026. For more information, parents and guardians can email Wooten at jarrod.wooten@tallapoosak12.org.
New contract with Haynes Ambulance approved by county
By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
Haynes Ambulance has been providing emergency transport services in Elmore County for years, and its services will be continued for two years with an option for a third after Monday’s vote by the Elmore County Commission.
“In February the EMS board sent out (requests for proposals),” Elmore County chief engineer Luke McGinty said. “The board worked through this and on the contract.”
In addition, the commission approved the bid to install new artificial turf diamond fields at the Wetumpka Sports Complex. The project came in over budget but savings from other Quality of Life projects, value engineering and extra funds from the City of Wetumpka will make up the difference.
For Phase 2 of the Quality of Life projects, the commission approved pulling the last warrant funding in the amount of $18.5 million for projects already in design.
The commission also approved ordering eight Tahoes to serve as patrol vehicles for the Elmore County Sheriff’s Office. New heavy equipment was also approved. The purchases will be made in fiscal year 2026 but the vehicles needed to be ordered months in advance.
IN OTHER ACTION.
• Approved minutes of the April 28 meeting.
• Approved the memorandum of warrants for April 19 to May 2.
• Approved a resolution honoring the achievements of Barrett Brown, AISA
of God to everybody around.”
Scott Sullivan was the keynote speaker for the program. He is a 10 MLB-veteran and Alabama Sports Hall of Fame inductee. He spoke about playing with hall of farmers, especially during his time at the Cincinnati Reds. He considered them all great teammates.
But he felt out of place listening to the accomplishments of the 24 finalists of the Joe Sewell Award.
“I was just a baseball player,” Sullivan said. “I feel lesser about myself after listening to all your accomplishments. Congratulations to all of you.”
Category winners for this year’s Joe Sewell Award were: Boys Leadership — Clenangelo Sharvis Peake Jr., Wetumpka High School; Boys Academic — Tyler Colt Wesson, Holtville High School; Boys Church, Community and Character — Ethan Edward Pruitt, Holtville High
School; Boys Athletic Award — Harold Jackson Stallworth, Stanhope Elmore High School; Girls Leadership — Zoie Jalese O’Neal Holmes, Stanhope Elmore High School; Girls Academic — Johnna
Beth Sims, Wetumpka High School; Girls Church, Community and Character — Victoria Christine Bullock, Holtville High School; and Girls Athletic — Lily Monroe Davenport, Wetumpka High School.
CLIFF WILLIAMS TPI
Elmore County High School senior Kayden Elizabeth Edwards, center poses with members of the Joe Sewell family and the scholarship board after being named the overall winner.
Our View Opinion
Skin care is more than a beauty regimen
School will be out soon — which means there will be many days of having fun in the sun. But don’t forget to wear your sunscreen or hats. It may seem juvenile, but many times we go outside to stroll around the park, pop up at a farmer’s market or go for a bike ride and forget sun protection. Because it’s not just for the beach, or in our case, the lake.
Sunscreen is an important part of protecting ourselves against sunburn, but also something more serious like skin cancer. The U.S. The Department of Health and Human Services states, “Every year, there are more than 63,000 new cases of melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, resulting in nearly 9,000 deaths (and) skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the United States, with 5 million people treated each year.”
That’s a pretty large number of people. But the good news is it’s a fairly preventable form of cancer. Outside of just wearing sunscreen, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends staying in the shade when possible, wearing clothes that cover arms and legs, wearing hats, wearing sunglasses, avoiding indoor tanning and when you use sunscreen go for ones 15 SPF or higher.
It’s also advised to get regular skin checks, especially for those who might be prone to skin cancer. Skin cancer screenings are often done through dermatologists if not done by your primary care physician. Skin checks can be helpful to spot early warning signs or other possible skin issues.
According to the American Cancer Society, some common things to look out for include asymmetry, irregular borders, inconsistent coloration or the spot changing in size, shape or color over time.
If you have any concerns, check with a medical professional and remember to wear your sunscreen this summer and all 365 days of the year.
.jpeg attached to the email. Announcements will appear within 10 days in The Tribune, The Herald or The Observer.
I’ve recently been reinvigorated about the state of young journalism.
Being a journalist is hard work; there’s no doubt about it. You’re basically on call 24/7, you’re often insulted and on display to be made fun of, and you’re on the front lines of a lot of tragedy with very little recognition or thanks.
Simply put, it’s not an easy business to go into. It’s one of the most rewarding, to be sure, but that doesn’t make it any less difficult.
But there are so many amazing young people out there looking for jobs right now, and it’s given me new hope for the industry.
In case you didn’t know, we’ve been without a full-time sports reporter in Elmore County for nearly a year. But over the course of the last two months, I’ve been interviewing almost round the clock for a new graduate to take that spot.
I’ve had some stellar interviews with some fantastic candidates, and I think you’ll all be pleased with who is unveiled as the new sports reporter come June. Now, we just have to make sure we can keep up with her.
See, all these young people come with a new skillset and new ideas that we haven’t considered
Channeling my inner Mitch Sneed
before. They are using all types of social media, and they have innovative thoughts about how to best deliver news.
But what we need is people who are wanting to consume truthful news in a positive way. Especially with the local election cycle ramping up, it’s more important than ever to pay attention to what’s happening around you.
I’m trying my best to channel my inner Mitch Sneed, and I need your support.
Yes, you.
trust has declined, and people often talk about “mainstream media.”
But I would argue hyper-local newspapers are not that.
all-local, all the time — that’s something Mitch taught me before his death. We want to be every where and know everything, and yes, sometimes we miss things. Sometimes we need a nudge toward an important story, but again, that’s where you come in. If you feel there’s an issue in your community we’re not tack ling, by all means, please reach out to us. Or even if you know of someone who’s done something great for our community, that’s something we want to showcase.
Do you subscribe to one of Tallapoosa Publishers Inc.’s papers?
Do you read the newsletters or websites on a regular basis to ensure you’re keeping up with what’s going on? Do you want to be left in the dark?
into some heated discussions with local politicians or other officials, but what he always taught was if we are fair and honest, we are doing the right thing.
town, it takes a village. And that’s where we need you and your sup port. My door is always open.
These days mark a couple of significant anniversaries in United States — make that world — history.
The world remembers May 8 as V-E Day, Victory in Europe. Last week was the 80th anniversary of that historic day.
World War II had taken its toll in Europe. By the spring of 1945, the Allies had turned the tide of the war. The Axis Powers, led by Germany and Italy, were faced with surrender. Benito Mussolini, the Italian dictator, was executed on April 25. Days later, on April 30, Nazi leader Adolf Hitler committed suicide in his underground bunker. While Germany and its conquered territories hung on a few more days, the end was near.
V-E Day was declared on President Harry Truman’s 61st birthday. Celebrations were held all over the world, but in the U.S., especially Times Square. In President Truman’s address to the nation, he expressed his only regret was that President Franklin Roosevelt had not lived to see the historic occasion (he had died on April 12).
World War II is rightly remembered as a time of heroes, one of the few times in our history in which Americans were all on the same side. The entire globe was engulfed in a war against the worst evil humankind had ever seen.
Last week, we also remembered the 50th anniversary (April 30, 1975) of the official end to our involvement in Vietnam.
The Vietnam War had been going on a long time before the U.S. got
If you answered no to any of those questions, please consider how important a local newspaper really is.
I know the climate for media
involved in French Indochina in the late 1950s. America was in no mood for the expanse of Communism, particularly in those post-World War II years, and had been involved with the war in Korea during the interim.
President John Kennedy came in fighting Communism on nearly every front: the Bay of Pigs invasion, the Cuban Missile Crisis, the space race with the Soviet Union, to name a few. It was understandable, then, for the U.S. to get involved with South Vietnam.
As the years went by, following President Kennedy’s assassination and throughout all of President Lyndon Johnson’s term in office, the Vietnam War escalated at a frightening pace. Public opinion turned against the war effort by the late 1960s, and President Richard Nixon was elected thanks to his so-called “secret plan” to end the war.
The war continued through the Nixon years, and even expanded into other countries such as Cambodia and Laos. By 1973, the United States had decided to leave, and troops were withdrawn.
58,000 Americans were estimated to have been killed and 300,000 wounded during the war. It was one of the longest, bloodiest, and most divisive conflicts in American
aging editor of Tallapoosa Pub lishers Inc. She can be reached at 434-962-9420 or via email at lizi.
V-E Day to the Embassy Rooftop
history.
So, in 1975, as the U.S. prepared to leave the embassy in Saigon, we watched helplessly as the last Americans out were doing all they could to help the South Vietnamese before the North took over. Helicopters loaded with refugees landed on aircraft carriers in the Pacific Ocean, then were pushed out to sea to make room for more. Desperate Vietnamese clung to ladders on the last choppers off the rooftop, but we left them behind as the North Vietnamese tanks stormed the gates of the presidential palace.
What is striking as we recall these anniversaries is that the country used to care about what was happening around the world. It has been replaced with a bitter cynicism that penetrates every corner of our society. On V-E Day, we celebrated the liberation of Europe and honored our veterans returning home. When Saigon fell, many disrespected the soldiers, sailors, and airmen who fought so valiantly. Today, while many of us are buried in our cell phones responding to social media posts about celebrities and politicians, the seeds are being planted for World War III.
As we recall the anniversaries on this week in history, may we be prayerful that the United States always remains on the side of what is right as we do our best to support the cause of democracy around the globe.
Michael Bird is a music teacher at Faulkner University.
MICHAEL BIRD Columnist
GWIN Managing Editor
City to install stop sign at Little Road, Ann Avenue
By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
A traffic flow change is coming to residents of Little Road.
At the prompting of several citizens and the Tallassee City Council, a stop sign will be installed at the intersection of Little Road and North Ann Avenue.
“Traffic on Little Road will now have to come to a complete stop before entering Little Road or River Road,” Tallassee police chief Todd Buce said. “There is currently a yield sign. It has been this way for a long time.”
Buce said he doesn’t know of any significant wrecks at the intersection but has heard of numerous close calls. Traffic traveling into Tallassee from Little Road has to look behind the vehicle to see southbound traffic on River Road.
The sign and painting of the intersection will be done by the city’s public works department.
Also at Monday’s Tallassee City Council meeting, members went into an executive session for economic development. The council ultimately voted to allow the mayor to begin negotiations to sell approximately 29 acres of the old airport property the city owns. The contract will still come back to the council to be approved.
After approval by the city’s planning commit-
tee the council voted to allow a conditional “permitted use” to Highway Commercial zoning. With council approval R.V. parks will be allowed in the zone. Developers will still have to come to the planning commission and council with plans and regulations for a R.V. park.
Additionally, The council voted to enter into a cooperative agreement with about 30 other cities with SEAGAS for bulk buying of natural gas. It requires no upfront funding and should save money on the purchase of gas especially in the winter months.
Boundary lines for the city council’s seven wards were also discussed. Maps of the districts are maintained by the Central Alabama Regional Planning and Development Commission (CARPDC). Ward 4 was adjusted to include all of the Noble subdivision as it was previously. Sunset Circle will be in Ward 3 but adjustments will be made over the next few years in the area.
IN OTHER ACTION THE TALLASSEE CITY COUNCIL:
• Approved minutes of the April 28 meeting.
• Increased election qualifying fees to $50 for all candidates for mayor, city council and city school board.
The next meeting of the Tallassee City Council is scheduled for 6 p.m. Monday, June 9.
Three graduating seniors receive Albritton scholarship
By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
For the fifth year, the Dean B.
Albritton family recognized three high school seniors along with the ministry of matriarch.
The family created the Dean B. Albritton Memorial Scholarship following her death in 2021 to benefit graduating seniors in Autauga, Elmore and Montgomery counties.
This year’s recipients were Gracie Hope Arnold of Wetumpka, Sophie Rebekah Creamer of Tallassee and Colin Daniel Dye of Montgomery.
Dean’s husband Walter hopes the scholarship will allow the students to serve their communities like his wife did through their ministry.
“I invite these deserving students to consider her example as a pattern for their lives,” Albritton said. “It means the world to me and to my family.”
Walter joined his sons Matt, Mark, Tim and Steve to create the scholarship to remember Dean.
“It did not matter who you were, if you had never heard of Jesus she was ready to share the hope that was her heart,” Matt said.
Dean’s legacy stretches across the River Region. She helped New Walk of Life Church become the strong ministry it is today near downtown Montgomery as her husband led Wetumpka Methodist Church. At the same time the Albrittons celebrated their mother, they also celebrated the students and their accom-
plishments.
Arnold is in the top 10% of her class and has been a co-leader in the Young Adult Bible Study. She’s active in the choir and several honor societies.
Arnold was unable to attend the awards banquet as she was performing in the Wetumpka High School Theater Guild’s spring production. She did record a video thanking the Albritton family for their generosity and described her relationship with God as one reason for her success.
“There have been plenty of moments where I felt unsure or overwhelmed, but God has always been faithful,” Arnold said. “He’s given me peace when I needed it most, and he’s constantly reminding me that I don’t have to figure everything out on my own.”
Arnold plans to attend Troy University this fall.
Creamer is a home schooled student from Tallassee. She was in the Elmore County High School Maroon Machine Marching Band, where Creamer served as president. She too is involved in many church and community service activities. She plans to study nursing at Jacksonville State University and has hopes to be in the band.
Creamer grew up a pastor’s child and said the church raised her.
“I often say that I’ve been in the church since nine months before I was born,” Creamer said. “Every woman in the congregation is like an aunt or a grandmother to me and every man instantly became a big brother or a crazy uncle.”
CommunityCalendar
Creamer said church members were always willing to help with rides, school fundraisers and with godly advice.
But just because of her connections to a church, doesn’t define her relationship with God.
“I serve not out of a sense of obligation from my parents, but out of a genuine love,” Creamer said. “It is something that I just love doing and my faith in Jesus is the exact same. It doesn’t come from the church, it doesn’t come from my parents. It’s a personal belief that I’ve held for almost my entire life.”
Dye is graduating from Loveless Academy magnet program. He’s a member of the National Honor Society. He has served as captain of the basketball team and participated in indoor track. He will go to Auburn University to study biomedical science with hopes of going to medical school.
Dye was noted for his relationship with God and his work ethic. He credited his perseverance to portions of the Boy Scout oath, noting especially “morally straight.”
“You’re constantly going to have challenges that you’re going to face in life,” Dye said. “It could be peer pressure from your friends or others that are trying to get you off the path. It’s just like obstacles, they’re going to be in your way. But you got to keep persevering through that tough time, no matter what anybody says, no matter what your mind is telling you, you just got to keep being morally straight.”
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.
SATURDAY, SEPT. 27
Wetumpka each Tuesday at 6:15 p.m. All are welcome to the meetings which provide a safe and loving environment for individuals seeking to conquer their hurts, habits and hangups. For more information, visit www.Gracepoint.info or contact Gwin Greathouse at gwingreathouse@gmail.com.
CELEBRATE RECOVERY
OKTOBERFEST: Main Street Wetumpka will host its annual Oktoberfest from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sept. 27 in downtown Wetumpka. Featured will be vendors, a kids’ zone, entertainment and a biergarten.
SATURDAY, OCT. 11
COTTON FESTIVAL: The Town of Eclectic will host its 32nd annual Alabama Cotton Festival from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Oct. 11. Vendor registration is now open with early-bird specials ending Aug. 1. This is Eclectic’s largest annual festival.
5026 of the NAACP meets at 6:30 p.m. every third Tuesday (executive committee) and every fourth Tuesday (full membership) at the Martin Luther King Center at 200 North Lancaster St. in Wetumpka.
OPEN MIC: The Equality Performing Arts Center hosts an open mic jam session from 7 to 9 p.m. every second Friday of the month at 560 Highway 9 in Equality. There is no charge but donations are welcome as they keep the center running. Bring a snack or finger food to share during the intermission.
RED HILL COMMUNITY
SANTUCK: Celebrate Recovery meets each Thursday at 6:15 p.m. at Santuck Baptist Church at 7250 Central Plank Rd. This is a Christ-centered, 12-step program for anyone struggling with hurts, habits, and hangups. Call 334-5672364 for more information or contact jyates@santuckbaptist. org.
GAMBLERS ANONYMOUS: Gamblers Anonymous meets Saturdays at 6 p.m. at Cedarwood Community Church at 10286 U.S. Highway 231 in Wallsboro/Wetumpka. Call 334567-0476 for more information.
ONGOING
SUPPORT GROUP: The last Thursday of every month, Restoration 49 Coffee Shop plays host to a support group for parents who have lost a child. The meetings begin at 6 p.m. each month. For more information, please contact Heather Baker at hbakerjj@aol. com.
PRESCHOOL STORYTIME: Preschool Storytime takes place at 10 a.m. every Friday at Wetumpka Public Library.
ECLECTIC TOWN COUNCIL
MEETINGS: Eclectic Town Council meetings are held on the third Monday of each month at Town Hall. Council meetings begin at 7 p.m. with work sessions taking place prior to the meeting at 6 p.m. Meetings are held in the Dr. M. L. Fielder Municipal Building, 145 Main Street.
NAACP MEETINGS: The Elmore County Branch No.
CLUB MEETINGS: Red Hill Community Club Meetings are held every second Monday of the month. Join the Red Hill Historical Preservation Association in the auditorium of the Old Red Hill School, located off state Route 229 at 6:30 p.m. to discuss upcoming events.
MOUNT HEBRON CHURCH
OF CHRIST: Come join us at 4530 Mt. Hebron Road in Eclectic. Our Sunday school begins at 9 a.m. followed by worship service at 10:30. There is also a Wednesday night Bible study at 7 p.m. For more information call Pastor Edwin Walker at 334-541-2025
LUNCH AND LEARN: Lunch and learn Tuesdays with Kelly are scheduled at the Kelly Fitzpatrick Memorial Gallery at 124 Company Street in Wetumpka from noon to 1 p.m. on the third Tuesday of each month. For more information, visit www.thekelly.org.
CELEBRATE RECOVERY
GRACE POINT: Celebrate Recovery meets at Grace Point Community Church at 78223 Tallassee Highway in
AA MEETING: Alcoholics Anonymous meetings are held Mondays at 7 p.m. located at 105 Tuskeena St. in Wetumpka.
RED HILL SCHOOL: The Red Hill School on Highway 229 in the Red Hill Community in Tallassee is open Fridays from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. for local live music performances. No admission is charged but donations are welcomed to maintain the building and pay for refreshments.
MASTER GARDENER
HELPLINE: If you have gardening questions you can call the Master Gardener Helpline at 1-877-252-4769. The helpline starts March 1 and ends in August.
CHILDREN’S HARBOR: Children’s Harbor Treasures and Thrift Store Located on state route 63 just south of Lake Martin Amphitheater, the Children’s Harbor Thrift Store is open Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. proceeds are used to help fund the activities at the Lake Martin campus of children’s harbor and the Family Center at Children’s Hospital. Call 334857-2008 for more information.
CLIFF WILLIAMS TPI
Tallassee’s Sophie Creamer, center, is surrounded by the Dean Albritton family as she speaks about receiving the scholarship and her relationship with God.
more than 48,000 applicants nationwide,” a release from Life Preparatory Academy said. “Wendell, a distinguished senior at Life Preparatory Academy, exemplifies academic excellence, leadership and community service.” Padgett has excelled in the Auburn First program, earning a Cord of Distinction for maintaining a GPA above
3.5. Padgett garnered acceptance to numerous colleges and universities and recently announced he will attend Fort Valley (Georgia) State University. He will pursue a political science major.
Among his many accomplishments, Padgett, who aspires to be a United States Senator, has already embarked on his political journey. He has served as a page for the Alabama State House of Representatives, attended multiple political events, served as a student
poll worker in the 2024 election and is mentored by several professors and elected officials.
Padgett’s other memberships and acts of service include: Auburn University Junior MANRRS, Young Professionals In Training at Auburn University, Southern Poverty Law Center Youth Council, President of Life Preparatory Academy National Beta Club, Planning Committee and Volunteer for YouthServe Alabama Youth Conference 2024 and the NAACP.
In addition to the Gates Scholarship, Padgett has won numerous other awards and scholarships, reflecting his outstanding dedication to academic and civic achievement. He will graduate as the valedictorian of his senior class, sharing this historic moment with his twin sister, Hannah Padgett, who will be honored as the salutatorian. She will attend Fort Valley State University as well. They are the children of W. Dale Padgett Sr. and Sherre A. Padgett.
Wendell’s accomplishments serve as an inspiration to students across Alabama and the nation. His family, school and community celebrate his achievements and eagerly anticipate the extraordinary contributions he will continue to make in the future.
Gates will participate in graduation ceremonies at 1 p.m. May 24, at New Adka Missionary Baptist Church.
Hammonds was recognized with three scholarships to Central Alabama Community College. Bryant received a scholarship to Huntingdon College. Mackenzie Harris and Madison Smith received scholarships to Jacksonville State University. The Joe H. and Mary Johnson Scholarship went to Larry Foy, Johnson and Renfroe.
Johnson received the Kiwanis Club of Tallassee scholarship. The Lake Martin Chamber of Commerce scholarship went to Christian Jackson and the Lake Martin Realtor Association scholarship to Johnson.
her intention to run for Tallassee City Council in Ward 6.
the swim team when it clicked.
“The week before I had been to church camp as a volunteer,” Jones said.
“I’d been praying, asking God for a kind of direction. At that council meeting I was sitting there and all of a sudden, I heard, ‘Run for city council.’ It was a God thing.”
Jones has announced
For almost two years now, Jones has been a regular at council meetings. Along the way she has watched and learned. She spoke with current Ward 6 councilor Bill Godwin, who is a member of her church.
According to Jones, Godwin said he wasn’t going to seek reelection, so she decided she would run instead.
Jones moved to Tallassee in 2020 looking for a place to raise a family. She likes the schools and the small town feel, especially the downtown area.
“We walk around downtown and shop some,” Jones said. “It’s like investing to me. It is about building pride in the community. They’re community members with
The Literacy Excellence Scholarship went to Giles, the Mildred W. Blount Educational Foundation and Neptune Technology scholarships to Bryant and Miss Reeltown Scholarship to Whitaker. Jack Darnell received a scholarship to Palm Beach Atlantic University. The RHS Scholarships were received by Jackson and Giles. Jaxon Walker received a scholarship to Southern Illinois University. The Sherry Downing Memorial Scholarship went to Chizyiah Riley. Scholarships to Southern Union State Community College went to Whitaker, Henderson and Gabe Cannon. Giles received the Tonja Jennings Scholarship. Larry Butler received
a business and you’re supporting them. Everybody gets involved and slowly that will bring in people.”
Jones believes Tallassee is a vibrant community with people wanting to invest for the future.
“It’s not just businesses, but just people wanting to give back to the community,” Jones said. “I see a community that really cares, and I want to give them even more opportunities to invest in the community and take pride in our community.”
Jones is following her own advice in running for council. She wants to see more residents take ownership in Tallassee and communicate their wants and needs.
“We have to be accessible,” Jones said.
“Everyone has to talk to move Tallassee forward.
a scholarship to Trenholm State Community College, Jackson Rodgers to Troy University, Giles to University of Alabama and Renfroe to The University of Alabama at Birmingham. Bowman Brumbeloe, Sydney Davis and Renfroe received scholarships to University of North Alabama. Davis, Renfroe, Giles and Rayleigh Williams also received scholarships to University of South Alabama.
The VFW scholarship went to Lewis and the HDD scholarship to Gavin Hill.
The program ended with the seniors receiving their yearbooks and many gathered with their families for the reception afterward.
I would love to see the council have more community input and involvement. It’s a partnership with the community.”
For the last 16 years she has worked with the state at the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency and now with the Alabama Department of Corrections in GIS mapping.
Tallassee reminds Jones of her Kansas roots. It’s unlike Atlanta where she went to high school. Instead, Jones said she has found a lifelong home in Tallassee and wants to make it better for the generations to come.
“I have a government perspective and a public servant’s heart,” Jones said. “I want to help make a difference. I could have lots of other opportunities elsewhere. I feel like I’m making a difference here. I want my girls to want to come back here. I want to invest in the future of Tallassee.”
Girls Discus State Champion.
• Approved a resolution honoring the achievements of Emerson Boddie, AISA Girls 100M Dash Champion.
• Recognized the graduates of the Teen Community Emergency Response Team (CERT).
• Approved a proclamation declaring May Foster Parent Appreciation Month.
• Approved a proclamation declaring May Mental Health Awareness Month.
• Approved the annual report on Insolvents, Errors, Litigations and Unsold Tax Liens.
• Authorized a four-year lease for a Canon large format plotter.
• Approved resolutions to resurface portions of Crenshaw Road, Hogan Road and Rifle Range Road.
The next meeting of the Elmore County Commission is scheduled for 5 p.m. Tuesday, May 27. The Elmore County Administrative Complex will be closed Monday, May 26 in observance of Memorial Day. 5
RHS
Continued from A1
ABIGAIL MURPHY TPI
Reeltown assistant principal Shundell Russaw, right, passes out the athletic awards during the Reeltown senior award program Friday.
Motherhood
A
of
of
mother is a female parent who loves her child unconditionally from birth.
My mom loved my sister and me like so and taught us
by example to live for and honor God. During Mom’s single parenting years, she sacrificially provided for us many times and occasionally blessed other moms in need. Her giving wasn’t for show but from her heart and God beautifully blessed her actions. He doesn’t hold mothers to a standard of perfection but to a standard that best reflects Him. Will we always make great choices? No, but that’s when grace and mercy wash over us like a flood.
Tallassee Churches
MELINDA BLAIR Columnist
When my kids were little I prayed often with them, and one morning on the drive to school I said this in a prayer, “Jesus we are sorry when we fail you and please help us to do better today.”
My son said, “You just prayed that last night and we haven’t had time to mess up yet.”
I responded, “But we will. All of us do and that’s why we need Jesus.”
It can be quite advantageous for children to be involved in extracurricular activities, unLESS we’re allowing them to take precedence over our times of teaching discipline and instruction of the Lord. The best inheritance we can leave our children is a sturdy foundation of faith. What truly matters is what we instill in their hearts instead of what’s in the bank. Psalm 127:3-4 says, “Children are a heritage of the Lord and the fruit of the womb is His reward. As arrows in the hands of a mighty man, so are the children of youth.”
Melinda Blair is a regular religion columnist for Tallapoosa Publishers Inc.
Errors costly as Tallassee’s regional run ends in close battle
By SAMUEL HIGGS Sports Reporter
It was the little things that reared their head in the Tallassee softball team’s trip to the Class 4A AHSAA regional tournament.
The Tigers opened their first game against Oak Grove, where they faced an early five-run deficit through the first three frames, with errors playing a major role. However, come the fourth inning, the Tigers found their stride, scoring six runs and holding on to that lead for a 9-8 win in extra innings.
Reagan Easterwood and Kam Tate saw most of the success with their at-bats, each finishing with two hits to their total. Tallassee, as a whole, finished with eight hits and nine innings.
Although the error played a factor, it did not truly show until
the second game against West Blocton. Tallassee ultimately fell 14-1, but the glaring statistic was the 11 errors through just five innings of play.
“We came out good in the first game,” THS head coach Pat Love said. “I mean, we made some mistakes, but we fought hard and came away with a win. We really didn’t play well in that second game right there, that team came out and really hit the ball, and we made a few errors.”
Having a win under their belt, the Tigers advanced to Day 2 of regionals, where they met with Handley. Although jumping out to a two-run lead, Handley responded with three runs in the bottom of the first inning and added one more in the bottom of the second. The game went stagnant until Tallassee attempted to make a late-game surge
Reeltown falls in series to Pike Liberal Arts
By SAMUEL HIGGS
Sports Reporter
It’s never going to be easy when you’re battling more than what is happening on the field.
The Reeltown baseball team made the trek to Pike Liberal Arts for its first appearance in the AHSAA Class 2A baseball semifinals, with the Rebels dropping the series. In Game 1, it seemed almost grim. The Rebels were in an eight-run deficit heading into the sixth inning. However, things on the offensive side of the ball clicked, resulting in eight runs scored to not only tie the game up, but carry the momentum into extra innings thanks to runs scored by almost the entirety of the lineup.
Even with the momentum in Reeltown’s favor, Game 1 of the series ended in a 12-11 due to a controversial call at home plate after Pike Liberal attempted to steal home base.
“We did really well in the first game,” Reeltown head coach Matt Johnson said. “We stuck with the plan. When they had to go to the bullpen, our guys rallied and made a huge comeback. Questionable call right there at the end of the first game, we didn’t catch any breaks. No breaks (Wednesday) within the game, but proud of our kids for fighting back there.”
Things descended even more into chaos in Game 2 of the series. Despite the constant blowing of air horns from the crowd, Reeltown’s trend of being unable to catch a break continued. Both pitchers, Hagan Lewis and Brody Smith, found themselves in a predicament trying to fight the crowd involve-
ment, which resulted in 10 combined walks, resulting in a 10-4 loss for the Rebels.
Offensively, Reeltown showed its prowess at the plate and made solid contact throughout the game. However, anytime Reeltown made contact, it just seemed to land right where a Pike Liberal fielder was.
“(At the) end of the last game, we squared two balls up solid, just right at people,” Johnson said. “And that was just kind of the breaks we didn’t get today. We hit a lot of really hard balls into gloves. But to make that come back, in an atmosphere like that, I was really proud of how they played.”
Even with battling through adversity the whole series, Reeltown can still hang its head high.
This was the school’s first appearance in the semifinals, with much of the talent on this year’s roster returning next season. Johnson knows that the final score was not an indication of how well his team played.
“I think, in a day or two, when you have time to reflect, that will be something that they can really be proud of,” Johnson said. “(In Game 1) in the seventh inning; play at the plate our guy was called out and in extra innings their guy was called safe. And that was a difference in the game. If we’re called safe there, we don’t even go to extra innings. So just knowing that you’re one run away from a really, really high chance playing for a state championship that hurts.”
Reeltown ends the season with a 20-14 record, going undefeated in area play en route to its fifth area title.
to advance. Cheyann Esterling scored via a double from Marlee Osborne to cut the Handley lead to just one run.
Even so, Tallassee could not make the comeback and fell 4-3. The season might have come to a close sooner than he would have liked, but Love was still proud of the fight his team showed.
“They’re gonna fight to the end,” Love said. “That’s the way we preach, and that’s what we do. And they did, they fought to the end. We were one base hit away from right there, going up, you know, going up 5-4, right there.”
Tallassee finished the season with an 18-18 record, but in Love’s eyes, he was pleased about his team’s performance in the later stretch of the season to even make it to regionals.
“I think we had a good season,” Love said. “We definitely got better as it went on. And like I said, I’m proud of them. They got better as it went on.
We did not play our best in this tournament right here, but that happens
ACROSS
THE POND
Delfin inks future
BY LIZI ARBOGAST GWIN Managing Editor
There’s no doubt about it. Irvin Delfin has a natural ability on the soccer field.
He finished his career as seventh all-time in goal scoring in AHSAA history and, according to coach Matt Tarpley, “will go down as the best player in the history of Tallassee High School.”
And he made more Tallassee history just last week as he became the first Tiger to sign to play in Europe. Delfin inked his future on Friday by signing to play at Leeds Beckett University in Leeds, England.
“It’s their academy program,” Tarpley explained.
Delfin will get a chance to continue his academic career but more importantly, he’ll be fighting for a spot to move up from the academy team to the Premier League squad.
“I’m very thankful his parents were on board because the opportunity to play in England, to play in
Europe and the possibility of getting promoted from the academy team to the Premier League team is just too good to pass up,” Tarpley said.
Delfin’s journey to play overseas began around Thanksgiving of 2024. He took a trip to London with EXACT Soccer and participated in a true soccer showcase.
“He was there for about nine days with kids from all over the U.S. and Europe,” Tarpley said. “It was a real intense nine days with soccer training in the morning and afternoons and playing games in the evening.”
Of course, Delfin did what he did best — score goals.
“The coaches in Europe like that,” Tarpley said with a laugh.
Delfin caught the attention of the Leeds Beckett coaches, who made him an offer earlier this spring. Once his parents were on board, Delfin had his future decided.
“He’ll be shipping out sometime in July, and it’s
basically soccer 24/7,” Tarpley said. “Every kid in that academy program is working towards getting called up to the first team, which plays in the Premier League in England which is the best soccer on the planet.”
And Tarpley has no doubt Delfin can do it.
He finished with 150 goals and 56 assists in a 97-game career for Tallassee. He was a twotime first-team all-state selection, a participant in the AHSAA North-South All-Star game and a team captain.
But he didn’t get there on pure talent.
“It is certainly a bonus when your most talented player is also your hardest worker,” Tarpley said. “That’s Irvin. He likes to win every sprint at practice. He likes to score every time he takes a shot. He trains really, really hard with the team and on his own. He plays club soccer in the offseason, so he was living and breathing soccer and that’s what it takes to get to the highest levels.”
SAMUEL HIGGS TPI
Tallassee’s Marlee Orsborne rounds the bases against Handley in the Class 4A Regional Tournament.
SAMUEL HIGGS TPI
Reeltown’s Reed Wood sprints to third base against Pike Liberal Arts in the AHSAA Class 2A semifinals.
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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 PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE 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.
PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF MELVIN DOUGLAS RUSSELL, DECEASED. CASE NO.: 2025-108 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE
Letters Testamentary in the Estate of MELVIN DOUGLAS RUSSELL, deceased, having been granted to ELIZABETH DEE DUKES RUSSELL on April 29, 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.
ELIZABETH DEE DUKES RUSSELL PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF
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MELVIN DOUGLAS RUSSELL, DECEASED.
Attorney of Record for Personal Representative: MICHAEL S. HARPER A PROFESSIONAL CORPORATION ATTORNEYS AT LAW 213 BARNETT BOULEVARD POST OFFICE BOX 780608 TALLASSEE, ALABAMA 36078 334-283-6855
Tallassee Tribune: May 7, 14 and 21, 2025
EST/RUSSELL, M.
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THE SHOW MUST GO ON
A rainy day didn’t stop Eclectic’s MayFest
By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
Visitors and vendors braved the rain Saturday for the annual Eclectic MayFest. Some vendors didn’t make it. Some visitors stayed home, but those who came out found baked goods like cakes from Susu’s Eats ‘N’ Sweets.
“I was up til 4 a.m. Friday,” baker Susan Williams said. “I was up several nights this week getting ready for this weekend.”
Williams said wanted to come out to downtown Eclectic and offer the petit fours and other sweets she had made. Customers slowly came by, speaking with Williams and purchasing items.
Visitors also visited booths with crafts, flowers and, of course, food.
Local author Scott Pyron had his book, The Practical Guide to Family Preparedness, available to purchase.
“It rained on us early,” Pyron said. “Then the weather cleared a little bit unexpectedly. It’s been great to be able to speak with those who did come out.”
CLIFF WILLIAMS | TPI
TOP: All sorts of crafts and woodworking was available at the Eclectic MayFest on Saturday.
ABOVE: Children wait to take orders at a snow cone trailer at Eclectic’s MayFest on Saturday.
RIGHT: Susu’s Eats ’N’ Sweets owner Susan Byrd Williams speaks with customers at her sweet treats booth at the Eclectic MayFest.
Elmore County battles to the end, falls in nine to Holtville
STAFF REPORT
TPI Staff
The Elmore County softball team played its heart out until the very end but ultimately saw its season come to a close last Tuesday with an 8-6 loss in the AHSAA Class 5A Regional tournament.
The Panthers came across a familiar face in the game against Holtville to keep their season alive. However, it was almost entirely the Bulldogs game for most of it, with a five-run lead over the Panthers through three frames.
However, when Elmore County found its stride, it was a difficult team to take down. In response, Elmore County piled up hits and runs and eventually tied the game up with a sacrifice fly from Lalah Culpepper to bring Raevyn Barris. However, even with the momentum in the Panthers favor it was the Bulldogs who came alive in the eight inning.
Holtville picked up two runs scored via a sacrifice fly and a ground out in the top of the ninth, while Elmore County was held off. In total, Elmore Count racked up 11 hits with Addison Hicks and Culpepper finishing with two hits a piece.
Addie Patterson lit it up with three hits and two RBIs to her stat line. Kayden Edwards, Brooklyn Berry, Abigail Holt and Barris also all came away with a hit.
Culpepper saw most of the time in the circle, pitching five innings for the Panthers. She racked up four strikeouts and walked five batters. Addie Stephenson pitched for three innings and cataloged two strikeouts and two walks.
Although the season came to an end, Elmore County finished with a 22-19 record in coach Meghan Harris’ first year. Even with notable senior contributors leaving the lineup, Elmore County will have plenty of production coming back.
Elmore
Elmore
ABOVE:
County’s Baileigh Ames slides to third base against Holtville in the Class 5A Regional Tournament.
BELOW:
County’s Lalah Culpepper fires a pitch against Holtville in the Class 5A Regional Tournament.