Issuu

INSIDE TODAY Check out the special sports insert!

What’s good for the goose is good for the Tallassee

Inside

Opinion, Page 4

Area Calendar

Inside, Page 2

THE WETUMPKA HERALD Elmore County’s Oldest Newspaper - Established 1898

Wetumpka, AL 36092

50¢

WEDNESDAY • AUGUST 17, 2016

Get to know your candidates

THEWETUMPKAHERALD.COM

Editor’s note: We contacted each of the candidates in the upcoming citywide elections in Wetumpka to have them answer a series of five questions. Each candidate was given a total of 20 minutes to answer the five questions. By COREY ARWOOD and WILLIAM CARROLL Staff Writer

MAYOR In the Wetumpka Mayor’s race incumbent Jerry

VOL. 118, NO.30

Willis is facing off against challenger Emmitt Johnson. 1. Tell me about your background, what should the voters know about you and your candidacy? Candidate Emmitt Johnson said he grew up in a small town he likened to Elmore. He said he went into the military at 17 where he remained for 27 years eventually retiring as E9 Sgt. Major. He and his wife have been together 37 years and Johnson said he had 4 adult children, and 7 grandchildren.

“When I got out of the military I felt so blessed and fortunate that I had made it to the top of the pinnacle, I wanted to give back,” said Johnson. While stationed at Maxwell Air Force Base, he said he went back to school to obtain teaching credentials. His first teaching job was in Shelby County Johnson said he taught JROTC at school in the town of Vincent. From there he said he took a position in Stanhope where he moved for the next six years, as education director of Safety Net Behavior Treatment Facility. In that capacity Johnson said he oversaw three See CANDIDATES • Page 3

Enrollment up at Elmore County Schools

OTS becomes first participant in business innovation center

By WILLIAM CARROLL Managing Editor

Elmore County schools have added in excess of 200 new students according to the most recent statistics provided by the district. Elmore County Schools Superintendent Dr. Andre Harrison told the Elmore County Board of Education that enrollment numbers were up in all schools countywide as of the sixth day in school with the exception of Eclectic Elementary and Eclectic Middle School. Harrison said that the numbers the district has run show over 200 more students attending school in Elmore County district wide. Harrison said that the district is currently looking at the number of teachers it has for students and analyzing capacity numbers for a number of schools. One of the examples of a school showing tremendous growth was Holtville

The Wetumpka Area Chamber of Commerce will be getting its first business in its incubator program known as the Business Innovation Center in the form of Optimized Technical Solutions starting Sept. 1. OTS President Granita Griffin and Vice President Travis Griffin bring over 15 years of experience in the field of information technology as a welcome addition to the Chamber and downtown Wetumpka. Granita Griffin, from Birmingham, is an Auburn graduate with a B.S. in computer science. She has been working in the field for 15 years, the last five of which were spent as a systems engineer at Gunter Air Force Base. Travis Griffin is from the small town of McIntosh, Alabama and holds a B.S. in information technology from Herzing University in Birmingham. Mr. Griffin has also been in the industry for over 15 years, the last six of which were as an Oracle apps DBA at Gunter. According to Travis, OTS was founded in January this year and is headquartered in Wetumpka. “We provide information technology management consulting to public and private sector organizations,” he See CHAMBER • Page 7

William Carroll / The Herald

Goods are are being collected at Adullam House Thrift Store for flood victims in Louisiana, where they are scheduled to be taken on Thursday. In the picture from left to right are Coe Sawyer, Colton Spackman and Josh Hamby.

CALLED TO ACTION Local efforts made to gather emergency supplies for flood victims By COREY ARWOOD Staff Writer

A Wetumpka children’s home and ministry is working to collect goods for flood victims in Louisiana, and has even cancelled Wednesday church services to fill a box truck with last minute items to take on their run the following morning. One of the co-founders of Adullam House, Angela Spackman, said volunteers would be at their organization’s thrift store until 10 p.m. Wednesday collecting “items of immediate need.” See ADULLAM • Page 11

See SCHOOL • Page 7

Today’s

Weather

94 75 High

Low

THURSDAY: HIGH 94 LOW 73

Area students to participate in leadership program By COREY ARWOOD Staff Writer

A leadership program for high school students of Elmore County is set to start next month and will include tours of local governments along with area industries and businesses. The director of “Youth Leadership Elmore County,” Katrina Mitchell, said her program was all about learning what it takes to run cities and discovering, as she said, “what leadership looks like in those venues.” Mitchell said she started YLEC course roughly 15 years ago and had been working recently to “revamp” the program. The program this year is set to run from September through May. Unlike previous years, Mitchell said the

class would be held for one full day per month, from 8:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., and during that time students would take a number of field trips and also learn lessons from a course curriculum. According to a Elmore County Extension Office press release, the focus of the series was to enhance the “leadership, communication, personal, and group skills,” of the roughly 20 students who get accepted. There is a selection process for the program and according to the document the applicants are chosen through referrals, interviews and minimum grade standard requirements. Public, private and home school students can apply, she said, with the last date to submit an application listed as Aug. 30.

Mitchell said they would learn about both county and state government, as well as that of the town and cities they travelled to throughout the county. She mentioned a few municipalities that were already on her list including Millbrook, Tallassee and Wetumpka. While there she said they would tour area industries focusing on workforce development efforts and to learn “what it takes to be a leader in various industries” as well as local governments. The students will also have to complete a “community service leadership project” as part of the course. She said in the past a variety of projects had been completed, from park cleanups to fundraisers for local charities.

USPS 681-260

FREE ESTIMATES!

Hedging, Fall Cleanup, Leaf Removal, All Yard & Lawn Maintenance

(334) 309-4422 • (334) 580-7879

Page 2 • AUGUST 17, 2016

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

Area Calendar

Obituaries Russell Eugene Bass, Sr. BASS, Russell Eugene Sr., a resident of Marbury, AL; passed away Monday, August 15, 2016 at the age of 94. Funeral services will be held Thursday, August 18, 2016 at Gassett Funeral Home Chapel at 10:00 a.m. with Rev. Michael Brock officiating. Burial will be at New Harmony Baptist Cemetery with Gassett Funeral Home of Wetumpka directing. Mr. Bass is preceded in death by his wife, Annie Lucille Patton Bass and grandson, Joshua Guthrie. He is survived by his sons, Mark Bass, Russell Eugene Bass Jr., Blake Bass, daughter, Ann Phillips, brother, Rayburn Bass, sisters, Joyce Denard, Renie Ramsey, 15 grandchildren, and 20 great-grandchildren. Online Guest Book available at www.gassettfuneralhome. net

AUGUST 17

Please contact the Tallassee Recreation Department if you are interested in a Self Defense Class 283-4726. Class would consist of situational awareness, prevention, recognition of criminal behavior and some physical defense. This is NOT a mixed martial class. Class would meet one-week night approx. 2 hours and Saturday approx. 8 hours.

Games are usually played on Monday and Thursday nights. We usually have approximately 150 participants, which make up 8-10 teams.

AUGUST 22

Regular City Council Meeting.

AUGUST 23

City Elections

AUGUST 24

AUGUST 17

Register for youth wrestling at the Tallassee Recreation Center. Participants ages 6-13 with 4 weight classes. Register on August and begin practice in October. The season runs until February.

AUGUST 17

Register for youth Soccer for ages 4-14 for boys and girls. Registrar at the Tallassee Recreation Center fee is $45 per child and season runs from October to November.

THE WETUMPKA HERALD

The Flat Rock Missionary Baptist and Oak Grove Missionary Baptist presents college and career night on Wednesday, August 24 from 6 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. at Flat Rock Missionary Baptist. This event is designed for high school students to explore college and career possibilities, gather scholarship information and find out about financial aid opportunities.

AUGUST 26-27

The Tallassee High School Class of 1981 is planning its class reunion, to be held August 26 and 27 in Tallassee. If you are a member of the class and have not been contacted by a classmate, please call Suzy Solomon Wilson at 334-283- 8172.

AUGUST 27

Movie Under the Stars will be on Saturday, August 27, 2016 at City Hall Greens. Kids activities will start at 6:30 pm and Kung Fu Panda will begin at dark (8:15 to 8:30). Bring your chairs and blankets and come out and enjoy a fun family evening. Concessions will be provided: popcorn, sno-cones

and drinks. This is a FREE event.

SEPTEMBER 8

Tallassee Chamber of Commerce presents the Downtown Chamber Social. From 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. come and network with local business and learn about the benefits of being a Chamber member. There will be good food and good fun while supporting your local retail businesses in downtown Tallassee. Start on S. Ann Avenue and visit businesses to get some food and refreshments and see what products and services downtown Tallassee has to offer. This event is for Chamber members and non-members. Meander to all the marked business from S. Ann Ave, Barnett Blvd, Sistruck Street and end at James Street behind the Chamber office where we will have hotdogs, music and information regarding The Tallassee Chamber of Commerce.

SEPTEMBER 12

Jobs for Life (JfL) Tallassee class beginning September 12th. JfL Tallassee is a Biblicalbased, non-denominational program that assists qualified individuals in finding and keeping a job. Potential students should be able and willing to work and are unemployed or underemployed. Classes will meet on Monday and Tuesday evenings from 6:30 until 8:00 pm, for 8 consecutive weeks. Meetings are held in the ACTS Building. No charge to the student. There are no age requirements.

ONGOING EVENTS CHILD FIND: The Tallassee City School System is launching its annual campaign to assist children—birth to age 21—who have disabilities and may need special services. The campaign urges parents, service providers, and concerned citizens to contact Child Find, a program to locate, identify

and evaluate children with disabilities or children who are believed to have disabilities. The Tallassee City School System wishes to notify you of the availability of special education services in our public schools. If you have questions regarding our programs, or if you wish to refer a student, please contact Lynell Carr at (334) 283-5675 or Child Find (Alabama Department of Education) at 1-800-548-2547.” ART EXHIBITION: There is a free exhibit of 65 works of art by the late Priscilla Crommelin featuring vibrant still life and floral paintings, portraits and landscapes at the Kelly Fitzpatrick Memorial Gallery Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Kelly Fitzpatrick Memorial Gallery. SATURDAY NIGHT JAMBOREE: Every second and fourth Saturday of the month is the Highway 231 Saturday Night Jamboree at the Alabama League of the South Cultural Center Building at 12814 Highway 231 North in Wetumpka. There will be country, gospel, and rock and roll music in a good atmosphere. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. with music from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. There will be line dancing, no alcohol, no smoking and no charge. Donations accepted for upkeep of the building. Contact Ray Funderburk at R&R Music and things at 334-991-4682 or 224-8509804 with questions. SANTUCK FLEA MARKET: First Saturday, March-December, dawn to 2 p.m in the area surrounding Santuck Baptist Church. An outdoor flea market with booths featuring arts, crafts, antiques, novelties, imports, food and more. Free admission to the public with free parking available. For info, call 334567-7400. BLUEGRASS JAM: First Saturday, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Alabama River Region Arts Center, Wetumpka. All acoustic instruments welcome - gui-

Need CPAP?

334-514-6183 Serving Elmore County since 1990. Located in Wetumpka at 6251 US Hwy 231 in the Triple C Plaza. www.qualityhomehealthcare.us

tar, banjo, mandolin, fiddle, bass, singers. Beginner, intermediate, advanced and listeners. For info, call 334-578-9485. SIT AND SEW: First Saturday of each month, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Alabama River Region Arts Center, Wetumpka. All sewers and knitters welcome. Bring your own sewing machine or hand-sewing project. Assistance and encouragement to help you through your project. Ironing board and iron provided. Free. For info, call 334-578-9485 or visit www.arrac.org. POTTERY CLASS: Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Alabama River Region Arts Center, Wetumpka For age 16 and older. $80 for four classes or $20 per week. Taught every Saturday by Rick Bowman. Bring your own tools or use art center tools. Center provides other supplies. For info, call 334313-1646. CREATIVE WRITING WORKSHOP: Saturdays, 11 a.m. at the Alabama River Region Arts Center, Wetumpka. For ages 12 and older. $32 for four classes. Taught every Saturday by Cliff Wayne. For info, call 334-300-9394. MASTER GARDENERS LUNCH AND LEARN: Second Tuesday of each month, 12 to 1 p.m. at the Elmore County Extension Office, Wetumpka. Hosted by the Central Alabama Master Gardeners Association. Free and open to the public. Bring a sack lunch, drinks provided. For info, call 334-567-6301 or visit www.aces.edu/counties/ Elmore/. SENIOR ACTIVITIES: “Prime Time” activities at the Wetumpka Senior Center, held at the Fain Center, 120 Cotton Street for those 55 and older: Regularly Scheduled Activities Monday-Friday - Lunch, 11:30 a.m. Cost is $1.60 donation if possible. SilverSneakers Classic Exercise Class - M, W, F at 9:30 a.m. - total body toning and muscular strength SilverSneakers Circuit Exercise Class - Tuesdays at 9:30 a.m. - cardio workout SilverSneakers Yoga Class - Thursdays at 9:30 a.m. - deep breathing, stretching, muscle relaxation Bridge Club Wednesdays, Noon to 3 p.m. Audio Book Club- second and fourth Monday of every month at 1 p.m. enjoy listening to a book on tape while knitting, crocheting, sewing, etc. NEW REGULARLY SCHEDULED ACTIVITIES DIY Classes - Every first and third Monday at 1 p.m. Do It Yourself Classes to learn to make things you can use around the house, including soap, lotions, crafts and decorations. Uno Wednesdays - 1 p.m. every Wednesday take part in a rousing game or two of Uno. Sock Sisters - 1 p.m. every Thursday come and make non-slip socks to give to nursing home residents.

WETUMPKA MEMORIAL FUNERAL HOME 8801 Hwy. 231 North, Wetumpka • 334-567-7880

Let us serve your family in time of need.

• Traditional Funeral Services & Cremation • Preneed Insurance • Monuments Brown Service & Liberty National Policies Honored Bill Barrett • Crystal Phelps • Donald Myrick - Funeral Director • Larry Dozier - Funeral Director • Bill Shaw - Apprentice Director

Family Owned & Operated

Please bear with us as we remodel & update our facilities in order to better serve you & your family.

THE WETUMPKA HERALD

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

AUGUST 17, 2016 • PAGE 3

Candidates

continued from page 1

campuses located in Elmore, Dallas and Montgomery counties. Through this Johnson said he worked with leaders from different forms of government, and from what he called different perspectives. He said he worked directly with the State Department to handle special education services and budget the finances. His decision to run he said came through conversations with his wife. He said he had voted for current mayor, Jerry Willis, in his last two terms. Changes, which he said he felt were necessary, were not being made and he said after talking with his wife he said she encouraged him to run, saying little would be done in the city unless someone got involved. “I lamented the fact for about 2 months and begin to examine the mayor’s current record and accomplishments and to that end we agreed that it was something we wanted to undertake,” Johnson said. He said he felt after looking into that record he felt there was too much of a “I message,” and not enough of a “We message.”

Johnson said he would like to have greater access to the city council, city officials and county authorities in undertaking the city’s projects. Johnson said he would like to develop a priority project list, in which each council member would keep a list of needs for their districts and city as well as county officials and publicize that list. “So there won’t be a question in anybody’s mind about transparency, or we’re hiding something,” Johnson said, and so it would be known no districts were getting treated differently. He said he felt that dilapidated structures were dragging the wealth of Wetumpka property values, and that Districts 2 and 3 received less than others while giving more. And he also said investments in youth were needed. “I think we can do more as a city to invest in our young men and women and our students,” Johnson said. Safety, health and welfare, he said would be priorities as mayor and he said standing bodies of water and unfinished roads would be addressed.

2.What do you think are the biggest problems currently facing the city of Wetumpka, and what are your solutions?

4. If elected, what would you like to accomplish during your term in office?

Economic growth is the biggest problem, Johnson said, adding that he thought the mayor’s attempts were just “a little off.” He said the current focus on recreational projects was only one direction for the city’s economic growth. His focus was on what he called drawing large employers to the area to replace the loss of those like the Russell Mills and Athletic Wear. He said the idea was to bring jobs that could provide “rooftops,” and by that he meant those that could provide workers with the ability to afford a “rooftop” or housing. This he said would better the city’s tax base as well. The ongoing Main Street efforts he said should be more of a partnership with the business owners, and he said the city should take proactive measures to attract businesses by developing the area rather than waiting on businesses to move in. He also said he believed the city was not playing on the waterfront community aspect enough, and partnering with existing businesses could help, like the casino. 3.What changes or modifications would you like to see in Wetumpka? How will you implement these changes?

Law enforcement was one of the first items Johnson mentioned. He said he would like to implement more community policing, in which he said officers would be ingrained in their communities. He said he would like the officer’s names to be known by the communities they policed, and for them to perform walking patrols as well. “Somebody told me when I first started running that I couldn’t go to the

Levels by myself. What a fabrication of the truth. Those are great people over there but is that the same mentality shared by law enforcement?,” Johnson said. In regard to economic development he said a more comprehensive approach was needed with input from the public, businesses and various officials in order to “collectively make a decision.” He said he would like to develop communities with districts which could report to their council members and better communicate their needs. 5. Economic growth and development is an ongoing issue, how do you propose to facilitate attracting businesses to Wetumpka? Finally he said would utilize business professionals in the area, like the casino, and city and county economic authorities, versus spending money on outside development firms He said they could look to other “waterfront” cities as examples of the development they wanted and an example of a city he would like to imitate such as Augusta, Georgia. Attempts were made to reach Mayor Jerry Willis over a multiple-week period. However, he said at the last city council meeting that his schedule would not allow him time to come to The Herald’s office for the standard 20-minute interview. As of the day of publication attempts were also made by phone to coordinate an interview, however those too were unsuccessful due to what was said to be time constraints.

In council district one incumbent Kevin Robbins faces off against Imogene “Emma” Bass. Bass agreed to come to our offices and conduct an interview. Three attempts were made to contact Robbins and two messages were left with him on voice mail but he failed to return our calls. 1. Tell me about your background, what should the voters know about you and your candidacy? “I am a bus driver for the Elmore County Public Schools,” Bass said. “I have been there for 18 and a half years. I am a prevention specialist here in the county with the Elmore County Partnership for Children on substance abuse. We do prevention programs in all the schools in county and I work in a group home with mentally challenged and special needs for 16 years.” 2. What do you think are the biggest problems currently facing the city of Wetumpka? And how would you propose to solve those problems? “From what I have seen going to city council meetings and talking and speaking with people is that our communities need to come together as a whole,” she said. Bass wants people to come to meetings and voice their opinions about what is going on. She said that people need to seek and demand answers from their elected officials. “Our people need to know exactly what is going on,” she said. “They need an answer to their questions.” Bass said that based upon the city meetings she has attended the people are not unified.

3. What changes or modifications would you like to see in Wetumpka? How will you implement these changes? “I would like to see more businesses come into our city,” she said. “We are going to get revenues from that.” She noted that she would also like to see the citizens and city council come together to make good decisions. She said she would also like to see more activities for the riverfront and more activities for children, specifically area teens. “We need a movie theater,” she said. “Why do we not have a movie theater or a bowling alley?” She also noted that she would like to see more

activities for kids during the summer. 4. If elected, what would you like to accomplish during your term in office? Bass again focused on bringing the community together as an important goal for the city. She said she doesn’t think that is happening currently. 5. Economic growth and development is an ongoing issue, how do you propose to facilitate attracting businesses to Wetumpka? Bass noted that there is property available in Wetumpka. She thinks the city already has quite a bit to attract business, noting the quality of roads and commercial properties for See CANDIDATES • Page 5

Wetumpka

Flea Market & Antiques BOOTH SPACE AVAILABLE. CALL FOR INFORMATION.

334-567-2666 5266 U.S. Hwy. 231 Wetumpka, AL

Winn Dixie Shopping Center • Behind KFC

DISTRICT I

COUNTDOWN TO KICKOFF! Joe Bennett, Robin Ellison, Vicki Mullino, Sherry Thorne, Keith Nobles

3PML | /VTL | (\[V | )\ZPULZZ Before you renew your insurance policy... CALL US FIRST, your friend and neighbor right here in Elmore County.

COUSINS INSURANCE AGENCY 234 HILL STREET, WETUMPKA, ALABAMA “Serving the community since 1914”

TEL: 334.567.8493 EMAIL: CIA@COUSINSINS.COM

Follow all the local high school football teams in Elmore County.

50 25 25

Get 15 months of the Wetumpka $ Herald for the price of 1 year . . . . Get 15 months of the Tallassee $ Tribune for the price of 1 year . . . Get 15 months of the Eclectic $ Observer for the price of 1 year . .

ဠ¨ ¤ ¦ ¨ ¡ ဘ This special will get you through opening night, homecoming and the Super Seven! To subscribe call the circulation department:

256.234.4281

Steve Baker, Publisher William Carroll, Managing Editor Opinions expressed in guest columns and letters to the editor do not necessarily reflect the viewpoint of the management of Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc.

OPINION

Page 4 • AUGUST 17, 2016

“Our liberty cannot be guarded but by the freedom of the press, nor that be limited without danger of losing it.” --Thomas Jefferson

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

THE WETUMPKA HERALD

The Herald strives to report the news honestly, fairly and with integrity, to take a leadership role and act as a positive influence in our community, to promote business, to provide for the welfare of our employees, to strive for excellence in everything we do and, above all, to treat others as we would want to be treated ourselves.

There could be more to lottery than just a lottery

t first blush, it appears so simple. The state’s General Fund budget is underfunded, and Medicaid, Michele the program Gerlach that provides health care for about 1 million people in Alabama – many of them children – is $85 million short in the FY 2017 budget. Gov. Robert Bentley, a former Baptist deacon, announced last month he would call the legislature into session this coming Monday to address his proposal for a statewide lottery. To date, he has not issued the official call, which specifies what the legislature can address in a special session. The Montgomery Advertiser reported late Friday that Bentley’s office won’t issue the call until Monday, when the legislature is expected to begin meeting. There is great irony in the fact that our state, which spent untold amounts of money shutting down gambling operations it decided were illegal and immoral, now is led by a governor arguing that passing a lottery is the only moral answer. Think Country Crossing. Think Victoryland. Think GreenTrack. Meanwhile, the governor has been making appearances around the state at places like Children’s Hospital, and giving speeches that insist the legislature must adopt a lottery to save the lives of children. After all, he says, there are only six or so states without a lottery. Bentley’s proposal for a lottery is a bit short on details, but he claims it will generate $225 million. Because he hasn’t shared his math, it isn’t immediately clear if that’s the gross amount expected to be

generated, or the net. Other gaming interests in the state have been rather quiet on the issue. The Poarch Creek Indians, who operate casinos in Atmore, Montgomery and Wetumpka, and who own race facilities in Mobile and Birmingham, only say “We support the governor’s efforts to find a solution to the crisis.” A second proposal, by Sen. Jim McClendon, puts more on the menu. McClendon is proposing not just a lottery, but “virtual lottery terminals” at VictoryLand, GreenTrack, and the Mobile and Birmingham race courses. He says he also would allow the governor to negotiate a gaming compact with the Indians, presumably for expanded gaming. The truth is, if any lottery bill passes, the Poarch Creek Indians won’t need the compact they’ve sought with the state for decades. The federal government allows recognized Indian tribes to operate the same level of gaming allowed by the state, in three classes. Class 1 gaming resembles something like poker at the hunting camp or annual pow wow; Class 2 is bingo; Class 3 is everything else. If a lottery passes, the slot-style electronic “bingo” machines can be switched in a heartbeat to slot machines; and they can add table games to their entertainment offerings in Atmore, Wetumpka and Montgomery. The compact – nor the share of proceeds that usually accompany it – would not be needed. As simple as Bentley’s proposal sounds, there is nothing simple about it. The legislature should not move swiftly and emotionally, but deliberately and thoughtfully, with the long game in mind. Gerlach is publisher of Andalusia The Star-News.

334-567-7811 • Fax 334-567-3284 email: news@thewetumpkaherald.com THE WETUMPKA HERALD (681-260) is published twice weekly on Wednesday and Saturday by Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc., 548 Cherokee Road, Alexander City, AL 35010. Periodical postage paid at Wetumpka, Alabama. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Wetumpka Herald, P.O. Box 99, Wetumpka, AL 36092-0099. ISSN # 1536-688X. We reserve the right to refuse to print any advertisement, news story, photograph or any other material submitted to us for any reason or no reason at all. •Obituaries - $.25 per word per paper. Additional $15 charge for a photo per paper. (Herald, Weekend, Observer, Tribune). •Weddings/Engagements - $.25 per word per paper. $15 charge for a 2-column photo. •Birth Announcements - $.25 per word per paper. $15 charge for a photo. SUBSCRIPTION RATES (includes Wednesday & Saturday) One Year in Elmore, Tallapoosa or Coosa County: $50 One Year Elsewhere: $75 The publisher reserves the right to change subscription rates during the term of subscription at any time. To subscribe or if you miss your paper, call 256-234-4281. © 2016 Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. All rights reserved and any reproduction of this issue is prohibited without the consent of the editor or publisher. ADMINISTRATION Steve Baker publisher@thewetumpkaherald.com William Carroll, managing editor william.carroll@thewetumpkaherald.com NEWS Corey Arwood, staff writer corey.arwood@thewetumpkaherald.com Carmen Rodgers, staff writer carmen.rodgers@thewetumpkaherald.com Cory Diaz, sports editor Cory.Diaz@TheWetumpkaHerald.com. . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 306 SALES Jayne Carr, marketing consultant Jayne.Carr@TheWetumpkaHerald.com. . . . . . . . .. .. Ext. 313 Molly Brethauer, marketing consultant molly.brethaur@TheWetumpkaHerald.com. . . . . . . . Ext. 305

What's good for the goose is good for the Tallassee

ne of the most important goals we strive for here at our Elmore County newspapers is fairness. Fairness in how we deal with others and fairness in how we deal with communities. A few weeks ago, I wrote an “I told you so” type column involving a criminal case filed by the city of Wetumpka. This week will be the “I told you so moment” for the city of Tallassee. A few weeks ago I chastised city officials who had met in secret to discuss the qualifications of mayoral candidates for the upcoming Aug.23 elections in Tallassee. Specifically I questioned the legality of the meetings as being in violation of the open meetings laws and strongly suggested that the city stay out of the matter as it was outside their purview. As can be expected, city officials moved ahead hastily and voted to file a lawsuit against two candidates running for mayor. Last week, Circuit Court Judge Sibley Reynolds dismissed the matter stating that pursuant to Alabama Code section 17-16-44 no jurisdiction exists to hear the matter. What the order doesn’t say however is why no jurisdiction exists. This answer can actually be found a few sections later in Alabama Code section 17-16-56 “…the party contesting must file

WILLIAM CARROLL Managing Editor

in the office of the clerk of the circuit court of the county in which the election was held, a statement in writing, verified by affidavit, of the grounds of the contest as provided in this article and must give good and sufficient security for the costs of the contest, to be approved by the clerk.” Note the important part of the statute placed in bold, which required that in order to file an election contest, it must be done after an election has been held, not before. This makes sense because there would be no reason to contest a losing candidate. Why waste money trying to prove someone doesn’t live in the city if they don’t win anyway? In the cases I found on this issue when I wrote my first column, all of them had been filed after an election was completed. Therefore, it appears as though Judge Reynolds dismissed this matter because the city improperly filed it before they were even legally allowed to. So not only was it a bad idea to file the action for political reasons, it was also bad

because it was illegal. At the time of my first column on this matter I was not aware of the statute. In each state I’ve lived in I try to learn the laws as best as practical in order to be able to share that information with readers. As I have done more research on campaign issues it has become apparent that Tallassee City Attorney John Smith should have known about this provision. The fact that he didn’t calls into question exactly why the city is paying him anything for his services. It also creates an even more vexing issue. In previous columns, I suggested that the closed door meetings held by the city in this matter were illegal. Now there is no doubt that they were. The open meeting statute allows a board to go into closed door executive sessions for a few limited reasons. In this case, they went into executive session purportedly for this reason outlined in Alabama Code section 36-25A-7(3) “To discuss with their attorney the legal ramifications of and legal options for pending litigation, controversies not yet being litigated but imminently likely to be litigated or imminently likely to be litigated if the governmental body pursues a proposed course of action, or to meet or confer with a mediator or

arbitrator with respect to any litigation or decision concerning matters within the jurisdiction of the governmental body involving another party, group, or body.” Notice the focus of the statute is litigation. Something the city couldn’t even technically contemplate due to the statute. Therefore any discussions about litigation that couldn’t have proceeded should never have happened, much less in illegal executive sessions. The city’s attorney should have instructed them on this issue, but it appears it was more important for the attorney to allow this farce to continue. I am sure it is more cost effective for an attorney to induce the city into litigation, but it is a bad idea for the taxpayers. Once again the city wasted money that could have been used for something quite a bit more productive. But alas, I tried to tell you all several weeks ago that this was a bad idea and yet none of you listened, save councilman Rob Rygiel, who had the good sense to stay out of the decision altogether. So shame on the city council of Tallassee. Next time someone tries to give you advice, you should listen. William Carroll is the managing editor of The Herald.

YOUR VIEW Want to share your opinion on a situation, topic, etc.? X WRITE: Your View, The Wetumpka Herald, P.O. Box 99, Wetumpka, AL 36092 X EMAIL: News@TheWetumpkaHerald.com Include your name, address and phone number. Only your name and city will be printed. We reserve the right to edit or to refuse to publish any submission. You may submit one letter per month, limited to 300 words or less.

Recognizing unfairness, empathizing with the poor

ast month, I was taken aback when I went to pay my power bill. I’d been so busy that I’d forgotten to pay the darn thing. The day I paid it was the day it was to be disconnected, but it had not yet been disconnected. Much to my surprise, there was a $50 non-payment fee. Keep in mind, it had not been disconnected, so to the best of my knowledge, no extra work was created for anyone due to my forgetfulness. I take that back, because there was a letter sent out telling me of the non-payment fee. The letter stated the fee would take effect if payment was not received by July 25. I received that letter on July 26, when I returned home from making my payment. I thought my penalty was the late fee, which according to the letter is “$5.00 or 5% of the amount due, whichever is GREATER.” The whole situation had me steaming. I had the money; I just forgot to pay. I began to empathize with those who don’t have the money. I’ve been there. In fact, I grew up with nothing and have most of it left. In 2002, between college graduation and Officer Candidate School, I got behind on bills. The army kept telling me I’d be gone in two weeks, but that two weeks turned into a year. Who is going to give you a job when you might have to

JODY FULLER Guest Columnist

leave in two weeks? Fortunately, I had friends who were small business owners help me out. I dug ditches and cleaned carpets for months. I did whatever I had to do. I had to make choices between which bills to pay and which ones to let slide. Of course, I paid the utilities first. One time, I went to pay my telephone bill after it had been disconnected. “My phone was disconnected this morning, so I need to pay it,” I said as I handed her my check. “It appears they are just doing some work on that line, so it’s not been disconnected,” she said. “Cool. Can I get that check back?” I asked. She gave it back. My phone was disconnected the next week. People find themselves in financial turmoil for a variety of reasons. There are times the blame falls solely on them. Other times, it happens due to situations truly beyond their control. While other times, it’s a combination of both. Again, I empathize with the poor. I had the money; I just forgot. What about those who

do not have the money? If they can’t pay their bill, how is adding a $50 non-payment fee going to help them? I understand the need to have a deterrent for late payments, but why not “$5.00 or 5% of the amount due, whichever is LESS?” The same thing can be said to the banks that charge exorbitant fees for insufficient funds. Again, I understand the need to have a deterrent in place, but one of my banks charges $36 for insufficient funds fees. Does it really create that much more work to justify that kind of fee? The easy answer is to not write bad checks, but life sometimes throws us curve balls. Bo Jackson is the greatest athlete of all time but struggled mightily with a curve ball. Throughout my struggles, I’ve always had my faith, family, and friends in my corner. I just don’t know where I’d be without that trifecta. I’m grateful they’ve always been there to throw me a rope of hope when I’ve found myself in a hole. Institutions should want to drop a ladder. Instead, they drop a shovel. Let’s help people—not help them dig their own hole. Jody Fuller is a comic, speaker, writer and soldier with three tours of duty in Iraq. He is also a lifetime stutterer. He can be reached at jody@jodyfuller.com. For more information, please visit www.jodyfuller.com.

THE WETUMPKA HERALD

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

AUGUST 17, 2016 • Page 5

Candidates sale in the city. She noted that the community has several needs including restaurants and other sales-based businesses. She noted she wasn’t sure why businesses weren’t coming and believed that the city needed to answer that question. In closing Bass said, “I am Imogene Bass and I have worked in the community for a long time, I work with children and I work with families. What made me decide to run for city council is I feel I can help the city move forward. I will do my best to help it move forward.”

DISTRICT II In council district two, incumbent Percy Gill is facing off against former councilman Lewis Washington, Sr. 1.Tell me about your background, what should the voters know about you and your candidacy? Current District Two Councilman Percy Gill started by saying he was a Wetumpka native, having graduated in 1990 from WHS. He said he later went into the army, and in 1998 graduated from the University of Alabama. Gill said he was drawn here by a business opportunity and went into real estate development. He said he noticed there is a lack of after school and summer programs. Having volunteered with Wetumpka High School as an assistant coach, he said he helped students that were athletic but were having difficulty with academics. Gill said he went into the council originally after asking previous administrations why there were no afterschool programs or a parks and recreation board, and not receiving any answers. There was not a focus or emphasis on the younger people, Gill said, and that was ultimately what led him to run. He said he understood the importance of making sure younger kids had something to do in the community, with a safe environment for kids whose parents worked late or were not interested in sports. 2. What do you think are the biggest problems currently facing the city of Wetumpka? And what solutions do you propose? Gill said he wanted to see citizens becoming engaged in the public policy process. City leadership, Gill said, must ask for citizen involvement, and he said there was a disconnect between elected officials and Wetumpka residents. A “collaborative partnership” was needed he said between the community and elected officials and he said there needed to be better collaboration as well between the mayor and council. He also said there should be greater work with county government. Enhancing efforts to diversify the economy also topped Gill’s list. A better job could be done he said promoting large manufacturers, where residents could find a living wage. He said restaurants and hotels were needed but other industries were needed to diversify tax base and provide jobs that are going to be career oriented. 3. What changes or modifications would you like

continued from page 3

to see in Wetumpka and how would you implement these changes? One of the things Gill said he advocated for upon first being elected was to establish committees of the council. These, he said, would have separate meetings and would do research on a variety of city topics such as, economic development, public safety, parks and recreation. All around he said he has advocated in order to utilize the skill sets of council members more. He said he wanted to copy where other cities have had success. “I think you can get more done when you have more people with their hand at the plow if you will,” Gill said. And that consisted of a strategic focus on economic development by using county resources as well, he said. 4. If elected, what would you like to accomplish during your term in office? He said the issues he first signed on for still needed addressing. Those issues consisted of, as Gill said, an adequate investment in youth in a parks and recreation program. This would add to a quality of life by providing safe places for young people, he said. However, with focus on youth programs he said he also advocated a focus on community reinvestment and mentioned older communities that deserved more attention as far as infrastructure. He described some of the investments as the paving of streets and construction of sidewalks along with school routes for use by children in after school programs. And he stressed the development of council committees in obtaining this. “Certainly with the formation of council committees to me you just simply can get more done when you have more people looking at different areas of opportunities and improvements in the city,” Gill said. 5. Economic growth and development is an ongoing issue, how do you propose to facilitate attracting businesses to Wetumpka? There had to be a clear focus and strategic plan, Gill said, with measurable goals and outcomes and encouraged by fully investing resources with the city and county. He said efforts were needed to diversify the economy, and to identify the type of industries that would come to Wetumpka. With its relation to Montgomery and the Air Force base, Gill said IT companies might be an option for the area and reiterated the use of committees in doing the research on issues like these. Multiple efforts were made to reach Gill’s opposition and former council member, Lewis Washington Jr. However repeated calls to house and cell phone numbers, as obtained by the city, were unsuccessful.

DISTRICT IV In council district four incumbent Steve Gantt is facing off against challenger Frank Bertarelli. We asked both candidates the same five questions that other candidates were asked.

1. Tell me about your background, what should the voters know about you and your candidacy? Gantt is a long-time resident of the city. “I grew up in Wetumpka, graduated from high school in 1972, lived here most of my life,” Gantt said noting he also raised his two daughters in the city. Gantt said he went to work with the postal service and retired in 2009. He said he traveled quite a bit as part of his work with the postal service and said that during his times away from the city he felt the pull to be a public servant for the city of Wetumpka. “There are many things I feel like I can do,” he said. “Right now I volunteer for the Elmore County Food Pantry. Deliver meals for seniors on Tuesdays. As I drive around I can see issues and can be involved in the community. I have a passion for the city.” Bertarelli also has deep roots. “I am a local business owner here in Wetumpka,” Bertarelli said. “Been here for several years, employ a lot of people here in Wetumpka. I am a firefighter with the Wetumpka Fire Department, also a reserve deputy with the Elmore County Sheriff’s Department.” Bertarelli said he is active in the Wetumpka Lions Club and a member of the Freemason lodge in Wetumpka. 2. What do you think are the biggest problems currently facing the city of Wetumpka? And how would you propose to solve those problems? “Talking to the people in my district, there seem to be some issues with traffic and people coming in to visit Wetumpka,” Bertarelli said, noting that he has little control over traffic issues. Bertarelli noted though that he thought all in all the city was heading in the right direction but that he wanted to see more happen, specifically downtown. “I know they are pushing to do the downtown revitalization,” Bertarelli said. “I know there is money in the bank and I know it is just sitting there. My goal would be to push downtown revitalization.” He noted that he has seen quite a bit of activity downtown and feels that would been a boon for the city. He also noted though that economic focus should be on areas in Wetumpka outside of downtown as well as noting that if elected he would work closely with businesses to find out their needs and then seek to provide those needs. Gantt sounded a similar argument for downtown Wetumpka, “We need to bring as many people into the city (for economic development) as we can,” he said noting that he is a big supporter of Main Street Alabama’s efforts in Wetumpka. “We have got to get everybody involved in Main Street.” Gantt focused on the need to increase and improve the number of activities available to citizens including the youth of Wetumpka, but said that the city can only do so much as far as growth and development. “It is our job (city) to get them in here,” he said. “It is their job (businesses) to bring them back.” Gantt noted that area

businesses work very hard to attract customers and that he felt the city should be involved in doing everything it can to help local businesses. 3. What changes or modifications would you like to see in Wetumpka? How will you implement these changes? “We can as a government look at our structure,” Gantt said. “Are there things we can do to better serve (the people)? We need to be more transparent as a city. Gantt noted changes in the open meetings laws that eliminated serial meetings, where council members might call others to get approval for an item had actually changed the scope of business for the worse. “It was supposed to make meetings more open,” he said. “But it made it where you don’t talk as much anymore.” Gantt said communication is critical to the work of the city council and wanted to see city officials work better together and be more open with the public. Bertarelli said he’d like to see a little more attention to detail in city projects. “I see a lot of projects that the city is doing,” he said. “I am little more detail oriented, I’d like to see a little more done.” Bertarelli said he would like to see the continued advance of the Wetumpka Fire Department. “I would like to see a facility built that would house the fire department, a station on both sides of the bridge,” he said. “With the personnel we do have it would be nice to have two active stations on both sides.” He also lauded the police department’s efforts. “P.D. has put forth a good effort,” he said. “I’d like to see all new police vehicles unified in appearance. Not two different vehicles on the road.” Betarelli noted the same issue in city public works vehicles and said he’d like to see more uniformity. “Perception is the key to being successful,” he said noting that uniformity shows the city to be more organized. Bertarelli said he would also like to see more done at the city’s Parks and Rec. Department. Specifically more tournaments and bring more people into town. 4. If elected, what would you like to accomplish during your term in office? Bertarelli said he would like to work closely with businesses and improve the climate for businesses in Wetumpka. “I would like to know and be able to help businesses to know they are secure,” he said. He also said he would like to see his goal of two manned fire departments become a reality. “I would (also) like to see the downtown revitalization done and complete,” he said. “I would like to expedite and speed it up.” Gantt said he would like to see the continued improvement of the city’s fire and police departments, noting that both were already very strong. Gantt gave credit to Wetumpka Police Chief Danny Billingsley for being involved in the community. Gantt also focused on more activities for area residents. “I would like to see things for seniors and our youth,” he said noting that he would like

to see activities year round at the city’s sports complex. 5. Economic growth and development is an ongoing issue, how do you propose to facilitate attracting businesses to Wetumpka? Gantt again noted that he believes it is the city’s job to attract tourists, while it is area businesses’ responsibility to bring people back. He focused on his efforts with the Main Street program. “I have done everything I can and everything I have been asked to do with the Main Street program,” he said. “Downtown will help the other areas, but we have got to bring businesses into other areas as well.” Gantt said the city needed to focus on increasing the number of events the city has including tournaments for travel teams and events directly connected to the Coosa River. Bertarelli had a simple maxim to follow for recruiting businesses. “If you treat people the way you want to be treated and you let them know they are important to our community, they’ll come,” he said. “If you make it rough for them to come here, they aren’t going to come. I think we can get a little bit stronger industry.

It is not always about pulling new stuff in here, it is about protecting what we have.” Bertarelli said this can all be done without raising taxes. “(I am) strongly against raising any taxes,” he said noting that city owns property that can be developed for potential business activity. Bertarelli also spoke about the rest area on 231 South that he noted has been closed for five years. “I would love to see that reopened,” he said. “Make it a rest area with information that the Chamber has to offer.” In closing Bertarelli said, “I will be a voice for the businesses,” noting his district covers more of the businesses in Wetumpka than others. “I ask for your vote on August 23,” he said. “Please come out and vote.” In closing Gantt had this to say about his candidacy, “I want to say I am humbled by the support. I’d like to thank the voters four years ago that elected me. I’d like to thank my family.” He also wanted voters to know that during his four years as a city councilman he always thinks carefully about the decisions he makes and that all decisions are made in the best interest of the city.

RODNEY GRIFFITH Lake Martin Properties Serving Lake Martin, Tallassee and the Surrounding Area

RODNEY GRIFFITH BROKER CELL: 334-207-0666 WEB: www.rodneygrif¿th.com EMAIL: rodneygrif¿th@windstream.net LAKE TALLASSEE – 650-ft. waterfront, 3 lots, 3± acres, super panoramic view, good building site, $225,000. COMMERCIAL PROPERTY, RED HILL – Formerly The Country Mile convenience store, gas station and restaurant. Will sell only gas station and convenience store or all. Call for details, $245,000. BEAUTIFUL HISTORIC HOME on Little Rd., Tallassee – 1.5 acres, completely remodeled. Very nice, 5 bd/5.5 baths, $239,000. 78 ACRES off Lower Tuskegee Hwy., on Cleghorn Road, great hunting only, $135,000. RIVER HILLS SUBDIVISION – 19 lots, great views of Lake Tallassee, underground utilities, sewage. Prices start at only $20,000. 4 SOLD – 19 remaining. BEAUTIFUL BRICK HOUSE in Plantation Pines, 4 bd/3.5 baths, 1.6 acre lot very modern and pretty, REDUCED TO $299,000. 3189 LITTLE ROAD – 4 bd/2ba., large lot, very modern, & pretty, only $215,000. 8 ACRES – KENT ROAD – UNRESTRICTED, REDUCED TO $45,000. TALLASSEE GILMER AVE. – 3bd/2 ba next to DQ, zoned commercial, REDUCED TO $99,000. TALLASSEE BRICK HOME – on 1 acre with a 2 acre ﬁsh pond, 3 bd, 2 ba, large den and kitchen, garage, large screened porch, G heat pump, REDUCED FROM NDIN PEacres $159,000 TO $149,000. 8 more also adjacent to it. COMMERCIAL PROPERTY – 8 ACRESGclose to Walmart on Hwy. 14, PENDIN REDUCED $189,000. 548 PROSPECT ROAD, ECLECTIC – Beautiful home on 4 ACRES, 3 bd/ 2.5 baths, very modern and private, very close to Lake Martin. Reduced to $259,000. TALLASSEE 854 E. PATTON – 3 bedrooms, 2 baths with 3 acres of land, $125,000.

Build Strong • Build EfÀcient • Build TRINITY

Quality Custom Homes Built On Your Lot

140 + Customizable Plans

2x6 Ext. Walls Granite Coutertops • 9’ Ceilings DBL low Energy Efficient Windows And much more

(334)290-4397 • trinitycustom.com • Free Design Consultation!

Starting at

$65 sq/ft

PAGE 6 • AUGUST 17, 2016

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

THE WETUMPKA HERALD

THE 2016 OLYMPIC GAMES

OLYMPIC WORD FIND

Hidden in the puzzle below are sports that the IOC UHFRJQL]HV DV 2O\PSLF 6SRUWV EXW DUH QRW FXUUHQWO\ events. Circle the hidden words.

The Olympic Games originated in Ancient Greece in the year 776 B.C. The games were held every four years on the plain of Olympia in Peloponnesus, Greece. The four years between Olympics were referred to as an Olympiad. Only men were permitted to participate and watch the games because they were GHGLFDWHG WR WKH JRG =HXV 7KH ¿UVW 2O\PSLFV KDG RQO\ RQH HYHQW D VKRUW UDFH called the spade. The winner was crowned with a wreath of olive branches on his head called a kotinos. Many events, such as the long jump, the javelin throw, the discus throw, the foot race and wrestling, were added to the ancient games over time. The Olympic torch was burned throughout the ancient games, although there was no torch relay in Ancient Greece. In 394 AD, the Byzantine Emperor Theodosius II banned the games. The modern Olympic Games were brought back by a French educator and athlete, Baron Pierre de Coubertin. After a revival of interest of the ancient games in Greece, Coubertin created the International Olympic Committee, or IOC. The IOC has governed all modern games since LWV FUHDWLRQ LQ 7KH ¿UVW PRGHUQ 6XPPHU 2O\PSLFV ZHUH KHOG LQ $WKHQV *UHHFH LQ $SULO RI 7KH 6XPPHU DQG :LQWHU 2O\PSLF *DPHV DUH KHOG HYHU\ IRXU \HDUV ZLWK WZR \HDUV EHWZHHQ HDFK 6XPPHU DQG :LQWHU JDPHV :LQQHUV DQG UXQQHUV XS UHFHLYHG JROG DQG VLOYHU PHGDOV 7KH EURQ]H PHGDO ZDV LQWUR GXFHG LQ 7KH V\PEROLF 2O\PSLF ÀDJ ZDV GHVLJQHG LQ DQG ¿UVW ÀRZQ GXULQJ WKH 2O\PSLFV ,Q $XJXVW WKH 6XPPHU 2O\PSLFV ZLOO EH KHOG LQ Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

OLYMPIC CROSSWORD

$FURVV &OXHV 1. Father of the modern Olympic games. 4. Olympic Games originated where? 7. Crown of olive branches is called? 8. International Olympic Committee. UGV" " :KDW DUH PRGHUQ DZDUGV" 6HFRQG SODFH PHGDO 13. First place medal. 'RZQ &OXHV 2. Ancient games took place on this plain in G Greece. 3. Emperor who banned the games. 5. Third place medal. <HDUV EHWZHHQ WKH 6XPPHU JDPHV 7KH ¿UVW PRGHUQ JDPHV ZHUH KHOG LQ WKLV FLW\ 11. Ancient games had this one event. 1XPEHU RI \HDUV EHWZHHQ D 6XPPHU DQG :LQWHU 2O\PSLF JDPHV

+LGGHQ :RUGV Bandy, Baseball, Bowling, Chess, Cricket, Dance 6SRUW )ORRUEDOO .DUDWH 1HWEDOO 3HORWD 9DVFD 3ROR 3RZHUERDWLQJ 5DTXHWEDOO 6RIWEDOO 6TXDVK 6XPR J J 6XU¿QJ 7XJ RI :DU :DWHU 6NLLQJ :XVKX

WORD SCRAMBLE 8QVFUDPEOH WKH OHWWHUV WR ¿QG WKH QDPHV RI cities that have hosted the Olympics.

1/$$$77 B B B B B B B 53$6, B B B B B

COLOR IT!

1+,8&0 B B B B B B (052 B B B B 2<.27 B B B B B 62/2 B B B B

&URVVZRUG $QV $FURVV 1. Atlanta 2. Paris 3. Munich 4.Rome 7RN\R 2VOR $WKHQV /RQ &RXEHUWLQ *UHHFH don 9. Beijing NRWLQRV ,2& PHGDOV VLOYHU JROG 'RZQ 2O\PSLD 7KHRGRVLXV EURQ]H IRXU $WKHQV VSDGH WZR

1($+76 B B B B B B 12'/21 B B B B B B ,,-1%(* B B B B B B B

A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO ALL OUR SPONSORS! Froggy J&M Bottom TANK LINES, INC. Materials Like us on

Auto Motorcar Service & Sales, LLC

DRIVERS NEEDED

1010 Cook Station • Montgomery, AL 334.215.3704

jmtankjobs.com or call Jeff Sandlin @ 256-245-3933

Lee Williams: 334-514-1183

175 Redland Road • Wetumpka, AL Monday - Friday 7:30am - 5:30pm

Dan Reynolds, Owner 77744 Tallassee Hwy. 14 East Wetumpka, AL 334-567-3600

www.tallasseeautomoti ve.com

2530 East 5th Street Montgomery, AL

Barﬁ eld’s Heating and Air

WETUMPKA HEALTH AND REHABILITATION, LLC 1533 GEORGIA ROAD•WETUMPKA, AL

567- 4 70 0

334-265-1208

1671 East Main Street • Prattville Mark Davis, Owner

Offering Short Term Rehab and Long Term Care 1825 Holtville Road • Wetumpka, AL

334.730.0804

334.567.5131

“Local People Meeting Local Needs”

Elmore County Finance 102 Company Street, Wetumpka, AL

5020 Georgia Road • Wetumpka, AL

334-669-2848 Main Number

334-478-3250 Ofﬁce

James Hamner 26 Cambridge Dr. Wetumpka, AL 36092 (334) 567-5156 jhamner@alfains.com

BOBBY BARFIELD, Owner Residential, Light Commercial • Sales - Service Installation • Commercial & Industrial 105 Haggerty Circle • Wetumpka, AL (334) 514-9678

334-567-3020

74 Commerce Street • Montgomery, AL

334-834-6640 www.aldridgeborden.com

2461 MAIN STREET MILLBROOK, AL Auto•Home•Life

Alfa Insurance

Sheri H. Dunn, Manager

Open Thursday - Sunday 11:00am - 6:30pm 10760 Georgia Road • Eclectic,AL 334-580-0117

334-262-2544

ဣ ¦¡ ¡ ¡ ¦¡£ဤ

AMBULANCE

GEORGE FAMILY FARM FARMERS MARKET

1618 Gilmer Ave. Tallassee AL.

www.alfainsurance.com

Call Alfa.® The best agents in the business.

TALLASSEE

INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT BOARD The Heart of Opportunity

334-285-5540 INDOOR AND OUTDOOR SEATING UPSCALE AND BBQ CATERING www.Smokehousebbqmillbrook.com

1 Twin Creeks Drive, • Tallassee, AL

(334) 283-3113 www.tallasseeidb.com

J. Alan Taunton & Company, LLC Certi¿ed Public Accountants

200 Executive Park Drive Tallassee, AL 334.283.2567

alantaunton@tauntoncpa.com

740 Memorial Drive • Prattville, AL

5268 U.S. Hwy. 231• Wetumpka

(334) 567-4567

4790 US Highway 231• Wetumpka

334-567-5136

www.arrowpestcontrol.net

334-567-1131

ALIGNMENTS

TIRES/BRAKES

Singleton’s Alignment And Mufﬂer Service, LLC KEITH CANNON, Owner

of Anniston, AL 4004 US Hwy. 431

220 Company Street • Wetumpka, AL

256-820-8000

www.claytonhomesanniston.com

EXHAUST

334-567-6760 OIL CHANGES

Eclectic Family Dental Care, PC Tim A. Needham, DDS

585 Claud Road • Eclectic, AL

335.541.4002

ANGIE CARTER Associate Broker

334-850-1955 cell acarter@elemore.rr.com AngieCarter.remax-alabama.com

“The Company You Keep”

Alabama Foot Care Center

2304-B Gateway Drive (Hwy. 280) Opelika, AL Feet Hurt at All? Call Dr. Paul!

334-741-7600

www.alfootcare.com

1745 U.S. Hwy. 231 Wetumpka, AL

334-567-0012

334-514-0455

“EVERYTHING ROTATES AROUND YOU” [ WWW.WETUMPKATIREPROS.COM

Hornsby & Son

Deanna W. Nelson Agent New York Life Insurance Company 562 Clay Street Montgomery, AL 36104 334-263-4806 dwnelson@ft.newyorklife.com

5376 U.S. Hwy. 231 Toulouse, AL

Body Shop L.L.C.

We accept all deer claims & all insurance claims. Call us for great customer service & a quick turnaround. (334) 567-2511

www.567-2511.com

334-283-3463 • 334-283-8024 fax 101-B Caldwell Street, Tallassee, AL 36078 bhornsbyandson@elmore.rr.com

Elmore Co. Farmer’s Co-Op 355 QUEEN ANN ROAD WETUMPKA, AL

(334) 567-4321

A 54 bed pediatric nursing home that accepts kids the ages 18 & under.

2853 Forbes Drive Montgomery, AL 36110 (334) 261-3445

PENN PLUMBING CO., INC. Residential & Commercial Repairs & Renovations 3307 Harrison Road • Montgomery, AL 334-244-1431

518 AL HWY 143 ELMORE AL 334-478-3827

450 Hackel Drive Montgomery, AL 36121 www.brmwater.com Phone: 334.273.1119 • Toll Free: 800.253.6619

PAGE 6 • AUGUST 17, 2016

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

THE WETUMPKA HERALD

THE 2016 OLYMPIC GAMES

OLYMPIC WORD FIND

Hidden in the puzzle below are sports that the IOC UHFRJQL]HV DV 2O\PSLF 6SRUWV EXW DUH QRW FXUUHQWO\ events. Circle the hidden words.

OLYMPIC CROSSWORD

+LGGHQ :RUGV Bandy, Baseball, Bowling, Chess, Cricket, Dance 6SRUW )ORRUEDOO .DUDWH 1HWEDOO 3HORWD 9DVFD 3ROR 3RZHUERDWLQJ 5DTXHWEDOO 6RIWEDOO 6TXDVK 6XPR J J 6XU¿QJ 7XJ RI :DU :DWHU 6NLLQJ :XVKX

WORD SCRAMBLE 8QVFUDPEOH WKH OHWWHUV WR ¿QG WKH QDPHV RI cities that have hosted the Olympics.

1/$$$77 B B B B B B B 53$6, B B B B B

COLOR IT!

1+,8&0 B B B B B B (052 B B B B 2<.27 B B B B B 62/2 B B B B

&URVVZRUG $QV $FURVV 1. Atlanta 2. Paris 3. Munich 4.Rome 7RN\R 2VOR $WKHQV /RQ &RXEHUWLQ *UHHFH don 9. Beijing NRWLQRV ,2& PHGDOV VLOYHU JROG 'RZQ 2O\PSLD 7KHRGRVLXV EURQ]H IRXU $WKHQV VSDGH WZR

1($+76 B B B B B B 12'/21 B B B B B B ,,-1%(* B B B B B B B

A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO ALL OUR SPONSORS! Froggy J&M Bottom TANK LINES, INC. Materials Like us on

Auto Motorcar Service & Sales, LLC

DRIVERS NEEDED

1010 Cook Station • Montgomery, AL 334.215.3704

jmtankjobs.com or call Jeff Sandlin @ 256-245-3933

Lee Williams: 334-514-1183

175 Redland Road • Wetumpka, AL Monday - Friday 7:30am - 5:30pm

Dan Reynolds, Owner 77744 Tallassee Hwy. 14 East Wetumpka, AL 334-567-3600

www.tallasseeautomoti ve.com

2530 East 5th Street Montgomery, AL

Barﬁ eld’s Heating and Air

WETUMPKA HEALTH AND REHABILITATION, LLC 1533 GEORGIA ROAD•WETUMPKA, AL

567- 4 70 0

334-265-1208

1671 East Main Street • Prattville Mark Davis, Owner

Offering Short Term Rehab and Long Term Care 1825 Holtville Road • Wetumpka, AL

334.730.0804

334.567.5131

“Local People Meeting Local Needs”

Elmore County Finance 102 Company Street, Wetumpka, AL

5020 Georgia Road • Wetumpka, AL

334-669-2848 Main Number

334-478-3250 Ofﬁce

James Hamner 26 Cambridge Dr. Wetumpka, AL 36092 (334) 567-5156 jhamner@alfains.com

BOBBY BARFIELD, Owner Residential, Light Commercial • Sales - Service Installation • Commercial & Industrial 105 Haggerty Circle • Wetumpka, AL (334) 514-9678

334-567-3020

74 Commerce Street • Montgomery, AL

334-834-6640 www.aldridgeborden.com

2461 MAIN STREET MILLBROOK, AL Auto•Home•Life

Alfa Insurance

Sheri H. Dunn, Manager

Open Thursday - Sunday 11:00am - 6:30pm 10760 Georgia Road • Eclectic,AL 334-580-0117

334-262-2544

ဣ ¦¡ ¡ ¡ ¦¡£ဤ

AMBULANCE

GEORGE FAMILY FARM FARMERS MARKET

1618 Gilmer Ave. Tallassee AL.

www.alfainsurance.com

Call Alfa.® The best agents in the business.

TALLASSEE

INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT BOARD The Heart of Opportunity

334-285-5540 INDOOR AND OUTDOOR SEATING UPSCALE AND BBQ CATERING www.Smokehousebbqmillbrook.com

1 Twin Creeks Drive, • Tallassee, AL

(334) 283-3113 www.tallasseeidb.com

J. Alan Taunton & Company, LLC Certi¿ed Public Accountants

200 Executive Park Drive Tallassee, AL 334.283.2567

alantaunton@tauntoncpa.com

740 Memorial Drive • Prattville, AL

5268 U.S. Hwy. 231• Wetumpka

(334) 567-4567

4790 US Highway 231• Wetumpka

334-567-5136

www.arrowpestcontrol.net

334-567-1131

ALIGNMENTS

TIRES/BRAKES

Singleton’s Alignment And Mufﬂer Service, LLC KEITH CANNON, Owner

of Anniston, AL 4004 US Hwy. 431

220 Company Street • Wetumpka, AL

256-820-8000

www.claytonhomesanniston.com

EXHAUST

334-567-6760 OIL CHANGES

Eclectic Family Dental Care, PC Tim A. Needham, DDS

585 Claud Road • Eclectic, AL

335.541.4002

ANGIE CARTER Associate Broker

334-850-1955 cell acarter@elemore.rr.com AngieCarter.remax-alabama.com

“The Company You Keep”

Alabama Foot Care Center

2304-B Gateway Drive (Hwy. 280) Opelika, AL Feet Hurt at All? Call Dr. Paul!

334-741-7600

www.alfootcare.com

1745 U.S. Hwy. 231 Wetumpka, AL

334-567-0012

334-514-0455

“EVERYTHING ROTATES AROUND YOU” [ WWW.WETUMPKATIREPROS.COM

Hornsby & Son

Deanna W. Nelson Agent New York Life Insurance Company 562 Clay Street Montgomery, AL 36104 334-263-4806 dwnelson@ft.newyorklife.com

5376 U.S. Hwy. 231 Toulouse, AL

Body Shop L.L.C.

We accept all deer claims & all insurance claims. Call us for great customer service & a quick turnaround. (334) 567-2511

www.567-2511.com

334-283-3463 • 334-283-8024 fax 101-B Caldwell Street, Tallassee, AL 36078 bhornsbyandson@elmore.rr.com

Elmore Co. Farmer’s Co-Op 355 QUEEN ANN ROAD WETUMPKA, AL

(334) 567-4321

A 54 bed pediatric nursing home that accepts kids the ages 18 & under.

2853 Forbes Drive Montgomery, AL 36110 (334) 261-3445

PENN PLUMBING CO., INC. Residential & Commercial Repairs & Renovations 3307 Harrison Road • Montgomery, AL 334-244-1431

518 AL HWY 143 ELMORE AL 334-478-3827

450 Hackel Drive Montgomery, AL 36121 www.brmwater.com Phone: 334.273.1119 • Toll Free: 800.253.6619

THE WETUMPKA HERALD

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

Chamber

AUGUST 17, 2016 • Page 7

continued from page 1

said. “The company has over 20 years combined experience providing services in application support, database management, and network infrastructure services.” Griffin said that he and his wife chose OTS because the word optimized means to make something the best or make it more efficient. “We feel our technical solutions are the best and we use them to ensure our client’s organizations operate more efficiently,” he said. “Our company slogan is ‘innovating technology,’ which to us means introducing new ideas, products or services to enable businesses to run more efficiently.” Travis said that he and Granita have lived in Wetumpka since 2009 and the couldn’t think of a better place to start a business. “We wanted to be a part of the growth of the city, so we approached the Wetumpka Chamber of Commerce about business opportunities,” he said. “The Chamber informed us of their amazing plans for the Business Innovation Center. After learning that it was primarily targeted towards tech start-up companies and since we are both IT Engineers, we both agreed that this would be the perfect Business relationship.” He added that he and his wife sat down with former Chamber Director Vanessa Lynch, Steve Meany and Elmore County Economic Development Authority Director Lisa Finley and decided to

move forward. “It’s very exciting to be the first business in the Incubator program,” he said. “We consider ourselves to be something like a ‘child’ of the city. There will be challenges for both parties along the way but to see the final product (the relationships we build along the way, assisting the Incubator program in becoming as established as programs in other major cities) will be very rewarding. That feeling of watching your child walk across the stage at graduation.” As a newly minted business for the incubator program, participants normally take advantage of a number of cost factors in the hopes of cementing their business in the community. “The general goal of the Incubator is keep overhead as low as possible by sharing resources, which allows start-ups to retain most of their income in preparation to open their own location,” he said. “We definitely plan to branch out sooner than later but our headquarters will be here in the city, hopefully in the downtown area. Our goal is to create an abundance of opportunities for young college graduates to make them want to come back to Wetumpka to live, work, and play. I feel like we’re losing many of our young talent to other cities just because there aren’t many opportunities to come back to after graduation. We have plans to partner with local schools in the area to discuss

IT certification programs, internships, etc.” Griffin said his experiences here in Wetumpka and with the Chamber have been outstanding. “The people of Wetumpka have been very open and welcoming to us and our business,” he said. “I have to give a special thanks to Vanessa Lynch who was the director of the Chamber when we first started. Words can’t describe how her great energy, excitement about what we’re looking to do, and the relationships she’s help us to build have helped us to get off to a fantastic start.” Griffin has nothing but praise for the current team at the Chamber. “Gerry Purcell has also done a fantastic job in his new role as the Director and has been VERY helpful to us,” he said. “We’re looking forward to his business acumen and advice along the way. Jamie Young is such a sweetheart and has really been bending over backwards to accommodate our needs.” Griffin added that he wants the community to come by when they officially settle in at the Chamber on Sept. 1. He said that he hopes to be a part of downtown Wetumpka for years to come. “We’re excited to be a part of the Downtown Wetumpka movement and looking forward to expanding our business in order to help the city in the future,” he said.

School

continued from page 1

Middle School. Harrison said that HMS grew from 489 students at the end of last year to 559 students, creating a question as to the number of teachers at that school and whether those numbers would be sufficient to handle the growth. Harrison also pointed out the increase at Redland Elementary as that issue has been brought up recently during several board meetings. According to Harrison in October of 2015, Redland had 908 students, as of the most recent count it has 924. Redland parent Brian Ward brought up the increased numbers and pointed out to the board that the increase was not consistent with a report presented to the board that showed a decrease at RES. Specifically Ward noted

that the estimates placed this year’s enrollment at 885. Harrison said the increase puts RES at capacity, and while he provided no solution to the board on the immediate issue of the school’s capacity, noted that he was looking at it closely. In other matters before the board: • The board approved the appointment of Jason Mann as the district’s new chief school financial officer. Board Member Michael Morgan told the board that a committee had unanimously selected Mann after an interview process wherein the board elicited candidate submissions for the position.

BIG TIME OFFER FOR YOU ENJOY

Standard TV Service and Lightning 35 Internet

for only

per month for 12 months

plus taxes, equipment, governmental and other fees and surcharges including RSN Fee and Broadcast TV Fee

Call 1-855-222-0102 or visit brighthouse.com

Serviceable areas only. Some restrictions apply. Products and price of equipment and services subject to change. Monthly Regional Sports Network (RSN) Fee of $2.50 and Broadcast TV Fee of $4.00. Offer expires 9/17/2016.

FAITH

Phone 334-567-7811 Fax 334-567-3284 News@TheWetumpkaHerald.com TheWetumpkaHerald.com

PAGE 8 • AUGUST 17, 2016

Visit our sister website: TallasseeTribune.com

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

THE WETUMPKA HERALD

You can’t be a Christian if. . . ast week, I got a post which said:

“I would like your take on a statement I’ve just been told: ‘You can’t be Christian if you are a (here insert Democrat or Republican, your choice), therefore, you have no God!’ Is this true? Is God a (insert party name, again)? I was told it’s in the Bible. Can you tell me where?” My friend: Please know that I have tried never to influence anyone’s political choices and will not here. That is never the job of the clergy. In fact, using God, religion, or Christianity for personal gain, power, influence or political success is what the Old Testament would call “an abomination” and what I would characterize as “despicable.” This includes those who bill themselves as “Christian Restaurants,” “Christian Lawyers,” “Christian Car Dealers,” etc., and especially those who seek votes saying that they are more Christian than their opponents – you may remember that “The Religious Right “ tried that several years ago and we have seen it in many state and federal political campaigns since.

So, what does the Bible say? It probably sounds silly, but I did do a Bible word search on the words “republican” and “democrat” in three different English translations and two Greek Lexicons. Of course, neither of those words nor any words with the same meaning are found in the Bible. So, when your “friend” says “You can’t be Christian if you are a (party name) . . . You have no God . . . it’s in the Bible,” she is taking some Bible verse(s) and interpreting/twisting them for her own purpose or agenda. That’s nothing new. When the Bible does not address a particular subject, Bible “interpretations” have often been used to prove a point or control someone else: e.g., don’t ordain women because Paul says women should not speak in church, don’t drink because the Bible says that the body is a temple, slavery is ordained by God because Paul tells slaves to be obedient to their masters, God is all powerful because Jesus says “with God, anything is possible,” when in fact, that statement was the answer to the specific question: “Who, then, can be saved?” By necessity, we interpret the Bible all the time. Every

Wetumpka Church of Christ 408 West Bridge Street

Jason Chesser Minister Sunday Prayer and Fellowship.......8:30 a.m. Bible Study.............9 a.m. Worship service...10 a.m. Wednesday Bible Study........7 p.m.

Visitors Welcome At All Services

REV. BOB HENDERSON Trinity Episcopal

sermon preached is an interpretation. However, when an interpretation is “selectively” applied, as it was to you, alarm bells go off in my head, and I begin questioning the validity and the motive behind the “interpretation.” In addition to the Bible’s silence on the specific accusation your friend made, there are theological reasons to question what she has said. The first is this: if (insert name of party) are, in fact, Godless, what does that say about who God is and God’s relationship with us? The only thing I can think it says is that God does not love humans who believe certain things, in this case what the (insert party name) stands for and has stood for in the past. That condemns an awful lot of people. This, of course, contradicts the many Bible verses which say God loves us all and

will continue to love every human, unconditionally, no matter what (Romans 8:2829, for example) as well as our belief that God is Love. The second is Matt. 7:1-2 “ “Judge not, that you be not judged. For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and the measure you give will be the measure you get.” “You aren’t Christian, you have no God” is the rankest kind of judgement, especially since it goes further than simply disagreeing with another person’s opinion or belief. There are always people with whom we disagree, but when we say that they are “Godless,” we substitute ourselves and our judgment for God’s. That, I believe, is what Matthew is warning us about. That kind of judgment is also an example of spiritual pride . It says that “What I believe about God is the only true belief,” something about which Jesus constantly lambasted the Pharisees and Sadducees. It follows, then, that telling someone else that they are Godless because they don’t agree with you, isn’t an example of God’s love. It is an attempt to use “God”

8000 Titus Road Titus, Ala.

100 W. Bridge St.

Sunday Services at 11 a.m.

Rev. Jonathan Jonathan Yarboro Rev. Yarboro

Minister Dr. John Brannon

Sunday am Morning School..9:45 Worship..9:00am Morning Worship..11 am Fellowship.........10:00am Sunday School.....10:15am

There is Harmony at Harmony United Methodist Church!

567-8135 567-8135

“In“In thethe name of the Lord name of the LordJesus Jesus – Welcome.” - Welcome. ”

Please join us.

Mountain View Baptist Baptist Church Church

11066 U.S. 231, Wallsbooro 11066 U.S. 231, Wallsboro

Pastor Rickey Luster,

Rickey Luster, MusicDirector Director Music

SundaySchool..........10:45 School....10:45 a.m. Sunday a.m. MorningWorship........9:30 Worship....9:30 a.m. Morning a.m. Children’s Church.... 9:30 a.m. Children’s Church.......9:30 a.m. Thur. Night Service....6:00 p.m. Wed. Night Service.....6:30 p.m. You will receive a warm You will receive a warm Welcome at this friendly, welcome at this friendly, Christ-centered Church. Christ-centered Church.

NURSERY PROVIDED PROVIDED FOR NURSERY FOR ALL SERVICES SERVICES ALL

Henderson is a rector at Trinity Episcopal Church in Wetumpka .

First Presbyterian Presbyterian Church Church

Harmony United Methodist Church

Wallsboro United Wallsboro United Methodist Church Methodist Church Rev. Ryan Rev. Ryan Johnson Johnson Pastor

to control that person. We humans have called on “God” to control people for centuries. In fact, many of the “interpretations” discussed above, are exactly that – an attempt to control. Finally, the overall theme of the Bible, especially the New Testament, is as (a Trinity parishioner) pointed out in a comment to your post: “God is. God is love. It is up to the Republican or Democrat to accept God, not the other way around.” I would go even a step further and say that God’s love calls us to love our enemies, including those in an opposing political party, pray for them, and try, as best we are able, to show or reflect God’s unconditional love to them and to those who are observing us. I will try not to condemn, ridicule or judge your “friend” as best I can, despite my typical human urge to do so. I will only say that I do not find that the Bible or my understanding of Biblical or Christian theology supports her statements.

567-4458 1025 Rifle Range Rd. 567-4458 1025 RiÀe Range Rd.

504 West West Osceola 504 OsceolaSt. St. 334-567-4729 334-567-4729

Anthony B. Counts, Pastor InterimWorship Pastor Leader Angie Gallups, Billy of Students AngieReinhardt, Gallups, Min. Worship Leader

Rev. Anthony Rhodes, Senior Pastor Rev. Anthony Rhodes Tammy Driver, Children’s Ministries Senior Pastor Sarah Swedenburg, Worship Ministries Tammy Student Driver:Ministries Derek Blankenship, Children's Director

Billy Reinhardt, Min. of Students SUNDAY Morning Worship... ....10:30 SUNDAY School.............9:15 Sunday Morning Worship............10:30 Youth Choir .............. ....5:00 Evening Worship..........6:00 Sunday School.................9:15 WEDNESDAY Evening Worship..............6:00 Fellowship Meal............5:45 WEDNESDAY Preschool/Children’s Choirs.........................6:00 House of Prayer................6:00 House of Prayer............6:30 Preschool/Children’s Preschool/Children’s Missions............................6:00 Missions........................6:30 Youth Bible Youth BibleStudy.............6:00 Study.........6:30

SUNDAY SERVICES SUNDAY SERVICES Sunday School...........9:30 a.m. Sunday Worship.....10:30 School........9:30 a.m. a.m. Morning MorningWorship.......6:00 Worship... 10:30p.m. a.m. Evening Evening Worship..... 6:00 p.m. WEDNESDAY SERVICES WEDNESDAY SERVICES Prayer Meeting...........6:00 p.m. Supper.....................5:30 p.m. Choir PrayerRehearsal.........6:00 Meeting........6:15 p.m. p.m. Calvary Youth.............6:00 p.m. Choir Practice..........7:00 p.m. Calvary Kids.............6:00 p.m.

CEDARWOOD COMMUNITY CHURCH 10286 U.S. Hwy. 231 Wallsboro 567-0476 www.worshipcedarwood.org

Roger Olsen, Pastor Sunday Bible Study..........9:00 AM Sunday Worship.............10:00 AM We are a Congregational Christian Church which, in the name of Jesus, invites all to worship with us. Nursery Check out our Facebook page

Santuck Baptist Church

7250 Central Plank Road

“A Family of Families”

B.R. Johnson, Senior Pastor Larry Gore, Adm. & Counseling Randy Godfrey, Education Amy Pugh, Director of Children & Preschool Chad Middlebrooks, Students SUNDAY Sunday School............9 & 10:30 a.m. Worship........................9 & 10:30 a.m. Evening Celebration.................6 p.m. WEDNESDAY/FAMILY NIGHT Programs for every age 6:15 - 7:30 p.m.

Send your church news and happenings to: news@The Wetumpka Herald.com _________ Call JayneororShannon Molly Call Jayne at 567-7811 to advertise your church’s services in this space

ClassiÄeds

Lake & River Fax (205) 669-4217

Reaching more than 22,000 households in Tallapoosa and Elmore counties

The Alexander City Outlook

The Dadeville Record

Phone (256) 277-4219

classiﬁeds@alexcityoutlook.com public.notices@alexcityoutlook.com classiﬁeds@thewetumpkaherald.com public.notices@thewetumpkaherald.com

The Eclectic Observer

The Tallassee Tribune

Security Pest Control “The best against pests”

Alexander City (Lake Martin) www.russellmedcenter.com Director Cancer Center Clinical Supervisor (RN) Cancer Center LPN (FT 7p-7a) Physician Liaison (Marketing) RN ICU/Step-Down (PRN) RN Med/Surg (PRN) RN OB/PEDS (PRN)

RN (FT) Student Loan Reimbursement Program Sleep Lab Tech (RPSGT) Surgical Technologist (FT) Central Sterile Tech (PRN) Lab Asst (Venipuncture) (PRN) Cook (FT)

Fax: 256/329-7335 or Phone: 256/329-7345 jsherman@russellmedcenter.com

The Wetumpka Herald

THE WETUMPKA HERALD

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

AUGUST 17, 2016 PAGE 11

Rabies prevention, vaccinations are important safety measures By REA CORD HSEC Executive Director

hile our Shelter is a private, not-forprofit organization, we have contracts with the county and cities in accordance with Alabama Law to provide an animal sheltering facility for Elmore County residents. Shelters exist under the state Rabies laws as a public health service so that there is a place for stray and unwanted pets to go to. The county and cities provide for the Animal Control Officers who are then able to bring any stray animals they pick up to us for the required seven-day hold to allow owners a chance to retrieve their lost pet(s). We provide a safe and humane shelter for the animals in our care and then work to find responsible homes for as many as we can. One part of Alabama Law

that causes some consternation and confusion is in regards to pets that have bitten a person. The bottom line is that we (shelter) cannot take in a dog, cat or ferret that has bitten (or exposed) a person in the preceding ten days as we are not a qualified quarantine facility under AL Law. AL Code Section 3-7A requires that a dog, cat or ferret that has bitten a person be either quarantined under the direct supervision of a licensed Alabama Veterinarian or the animal must be humanely euthanized and sent for rabies testing at one of the state laboratories. As we do not have a Veterinarian on our staff, we cannot take in animals that have bitten (or exposed – exposure as determined by a public health officer, Rabies Officer and/ or Veterinarian) a person and we make no exceptions to this

HUMANE SOCIETY OF ELMORE COUNTY NEWS law, ever. Please understand it does not matter if the pet has a current vaccination, is ten years old or a week old, the law is very clear and we must deny entry to that pet. So what do you do? If the pet that has bitten a person is owned, it is the owner’s responsibility to have the pet legally quarantined or sent for testing and all of that is at the owner’s expense. The owner of said animal has other legal issues and to quote AL Code Section 3-7A-9(d): It shall be a violation of this chapter for the owner of such animal to refuse to comply with the law-

ful order of the health officer in any particular case. It is unlawful for the owner to sell, give away, transfer to another location or otherwise dispose of any such animal that is known to have bitten or exposed a human being until it is released from quarantine by the rabies officer, duly licensed veterinarian or by the appropriate health officer. Violations of this law are punishable as a Class C Misdemeanor. If the animal that has bitten is a stray, then this is when the city/county Animal Control Officers will come into play. Once that bite is reported to the Health Department (often via a doctor or the emergency room) or directly to police/sheriff, the Animal Control Officer will do their best to catch/trap the animal. Once caught, and identified as the animal that has bitten, the ACO will take the ani-

mal to a licensed Veterinarian for testing – in almost all instances those animals will not be quarantined but immediately sent for testing. Rabies is still a very real and very dangerous disease. It is a preventable disease which is why it is so important to keep pets’ rabies vaccinations current. Bites are serious as well and there are good reasons for our laws. So please understand that we operate within those laws and why we will not take in pets that have bitten a person. And please do not ignore bites either – rabies is a fatal disease if left untreated. If you (or any person) is bitten, please seek immediate medical treatment to ensure all necessary steps are taken to protect human life - it doesn’t get much more important than that!

Meet Connie, HSEC Pet of the Week Connie is 1-2 year old Terrier/Corgi mix girl, only about 25 lbs and just a very sweet girl. She loves to give kisses, is great with other dogs and would just love a family to call her own. Our adoption fees are $100 for dogs & $50 for cats under one-year-old; cats over one-yearold can be adopted by approved adopters for a fee of their choosing. This adoption fee completely covers the mandatory spay or neuter, basic immunizations, de-worming, microchip, heartworm check for dogs, rabies vaccination

Adullam

if old enough, 45 days of pet health insurance and a free health exam with your participating veterinarian. To meet all the great pets at our shelter come to 255 Central Plank Road, Wetumpka, AL, 36092, go to our website at www.elmorehumane.org for more information, email us at hselco@bellsouth.net or give us a call at 334567-3377. We are open for adoptions Mon–Fri 10-5 & Sat 9-3.

continued from page 1

On Thursday morning she said they would take the truck to a church in Baton Rouge, where she said more than 23 families had been flooded in. Some of which, she said, had lost their vehicles and homes and were living in a wing of the First New Testament Church Bible school along with the elderly pastor and his wife. “We’re going to send a group of our men hopefully with the box truck loaded to the hilt,” Spackman said. She said larger organizations, like the Red Cross, would be able to help more in the long term, but there were supplies that were needed in the meantime like personal hygiene products and cleaning supplies. She said they had been getting a response of “What flood?” in their efforts to reach out to people. “We’re trying to rack our brains at this point to make awareness,” said Spackman. She said they would also take clothing items from the thrift store itself, which is run to help fund the children’s home they operate. They were also planning to tend to long-term needs of the affected residents, by working to gather construction supplies and generators. “Our guys are willing to stay a week,” Spackman said. She also noted that donations made could be tax deductible.

Get more feedback from buyers when you advertise in the Classiﬁeds.

JOBS available

Tallapoosa Publishers is a multi-media news and sales organization that is located in Wetumpka and Alexander City,

Alabama. The Wetumpka Herald and The Tallassee Tribune along with its sister publications have been the voice of central Alabama since 1892. Wetumpka enjoys steady growth along with a list of many recreational opportunities.

We currently are seeking one outside and one inside advertising account executive.

As an Advertising account executive you will be expected to develop new business and maintain an existing account base of clients by selling a variety of advertising products and services. Some of our advertising products include print, online and mobile editions of the newspaper, magazines, inserts, direct mail and email marketing. This role is critical to supporting the over all revenue objectives at out organization. Our Account Executives use a consultative sales approach to identify the marketing and advertising needs of their clients in order to make effective recommendations. At the close of sale, this position requires you to complete detailed paperwork to fulfill orders that include placement of ads, the creative message, and reports to communicate campaign performance.

Qualifications Ideal candidates will have 2 plus years of outside sales experience. Most importantly, the candidate will have a demonstrated track record of achievement and be able to work in a fast paced and deadline oriented environment. Bachelor’s degree preferred. Candidates must have excellent oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills including basic computer skills for Microsoft office suite including Google for email, scheduling, and documents. Our outside sales positions require you to have reliable transportation, a valid driver’s license and a clean driving record.

In Print & Online

CALL CLASSIFIEDS TODAY•256-277-4219

Please email resume to marketing @alexcityoutlook.com

Page 12 • AUGUST 17, 2016

SPORTS TheWetumpkaHerald.com

Visit our sister website: TallasseeTribune.com

THE WETUMPKA HERALD

RETURN OF THE RIVALRY INSIDE THE OPPONENT’S LOCKER ROOM PRATTVILLE Junior Cam Taylor, a three-star athlete and 247sports’ 15th best high school prospect in the state of Alabama, will captain Prattville’s offense at quarterback. Daimion Wright also made a move, transferring in from Lee-Montgomery, where he amassed 1,253 total yards and eight touchdowns. Rising senior De’Keith Whatley comes back after pacing the team with 28 receptions for 384 yards at wide out. On defense, the Lions return their top defensive back in rising senior safety Cole Peak, who picked off three passes in 2015. Fellow senior cornerback T.J. Thomas adds depth in the secondary while senior defensive lineman Nick Jones brings seniority to the front four.

Cory Diaz / The Herald

Wetumpka head football coach Tim Perry directs his offense during the Indians’ first fall practice on Aug. 1.

Indians, Lions hunt validation in season-opening clash By CORY DIAZ Sports Editor

Two years too long. Wetumpka and Prattville renew their rivalry after a two-year hiatus in the season opener Friday night, both seeking the same thing from different angles. The Lions look to restore their faith after whiffing on the postseason in Class 7A last season. The Indians, who lost in the first round of the Class 6A playoffs at McAdory, search for reassurance as they reintroduce themselves to one of their biggest rivals. “A win would be huge,” said Wetumpka head football coach Tim Perry, who’s looking for his first victory over Prattville. “It would kind of be a reassurance and a re-enforcement of working hard and the sacrifice to get ready.” Lions head football coach Chad Anderson said the name “Prattville” carries a lot of weight because of its recent success, and his team wants to get that back in

2016. “For us, we understand that every team that plays us will play us hard just with the name we have in the area,” Anderson said. “Our kids have to be prepared every week. Playing Wetumpka in game one, it won’t be difficult to get our kids excited to play at home game one against a good opponent.” Both teams match up similarly in scheme and speed, leaning on the ground game. The Lions will follow three-star junior and first-year starting quarterback Cam Taylor, who’s missed nine games with a knee injury last season, and tailback Daimion Wright, a Lee-Montgomery transfer. The Tribe will counter with its proven one-two punch at running back in senior DeAndre Williams and junior Kavosiey Smoke, while first-year starter DeAndre Ezell tries to settle in at quarterback. “We’re fairly similar in scheme and the way we run things,” Anderson said. “I don’t think either one of us will just air it up down the field. There’ll be a lot of running mixed in there, that’s both of our fortes. I think

the big thing is both sides will present things we have to adjust to.” Amongst the parallels, Perry said sticking to the game plan will be crucial. “Their size; they’re very big and very well-coached on both sides of the ball. We know as a team and a coaching staff this opening game is a big challenge for us, but we’re very excited about it,” Perry said. “This game could be an affirmation to what we’re doing is what we need to be doing.” A loss won’t completely derail the hunt for reassurance for either team, but a win over its rival would take a huge step in the right direction. “There’s a lot of positives to be able to get off on the right foot, and we hope to come away with a win,” Perry said. “I know Prattville is preparing the same way. It would be a huge boost and a great springboard for the rest of the season.” Wetumpka and Prattville kickoff at Stanley-Jensen Stadium at 7 p.m. Friday.

Leadership to help usher Wetumpka volleyball into new era By CORY DIAZ Sports Editor

Entering the 2016 season with its first new coach in nine years and a whole different area slate, Wetumpka will rely on its abundance of leaders. The Indians advanced to the Class 6A South Super Regional the last two seasons, falling in their first game both trips. Rising junior outside hitter Kasie Thomas is the lone Tribe player that played on both of the squads, while a handful of others that received playing time on WHS’s most recent regional run give coach Margo Thomas a lot to count on in her first year. “Kasie will lead,” Thomas said of her daughter. “However, Jordan Stewart, she’s a

quiet leader, she leads by example. Caroline (Tyler) leads – I could name several that lead. We have two setters, we lost our senior setter last year, Amber Sprayberry, and Shamari Crenshaw, who’s normally a defensive player, she’s stepped up and has been doing some setting. “There’s a lot of different options on this team. We’ve got a good combination of leadership; our seniors Ansley Taylor and Sydney McKissick, they’re not vocal, but they’re leaders.” Kasie returns off an All-Area Second Team sophomore campaign, where she lead the Indians with 78 kills, 40 aces and 82 digs defensively. The team has its number one offensive option back, it’s having to

replace the top performer in the rest of the rotation. “We have some players that are stepping up. We have Jordan Stewart, she played last year, she’ll be a key player,” Thomas said. “Kasie will be a key player. We’ve got an international student (Julianne Racklew from Norway) that just started, and she’s going to be good. “As a team, we’ve got to learn, but the talent is there and the desire and motivation is there. They have a lot of ball control. I think offensively, we’ll be OK, we just have to work on using what we have to work towards our advantage.” Getting the girls to gel before they start Area 6 play on Sept. 13 at Opelika will be key. New area foe Benjamin Russell

ended Wetumpka’s season in 2015. Thomas said she thinks her team will be ready this year. “I’m looking forward to playing Benjamin Russell, they’re a great team. I think they have a great coach, a lot of experience,” she said. “I think what’s going to help us is playing tougher teams. The girls aren’t jumping in with two feet. “They’re ready for the competition and I think the more we’ll play, the better they’ll get. I think they’ll be ready for Benjamin Russell, it’s going to be challenging, but I think the girls will step up to the plate.” The Tribe opens the season in the Mayor’s Cup in at the Cramton Bowl Multiplex Aug. 26-27.

Cory Diaz / The Herald

Wetumpka junior middle hitter and Norwegian exchange student Julianne Racklew hits the ball over Wetumpka sophomore Caroline Tyler during the team’s practice Monday.

WE OFFER

743 Kelly Fitzpatrick Drive•Wetumpka (Across from Elementary School)

567-9246

PAINT & BODY REPAIR

AUGUST 2015

2015 GRIDIRON GUIDE

2016 GRIDIRON GUIDE

AUGUST 2016

Defensive front delivers savage spirit for Wetumpka If you visit a Wetumpka football practice, you’ll hear a lot of yelling, competitive banter -- maybe a friendly insult mixed in. Overlaying throughout practice, you’ll catch encouragement -- in screaming form. But the shouting isn’t coming from the Wetumpka coaching staff. It’s coming from Trent Holley and Jay McDonald. Three-year starters for the Indians, the two senior defensive tackles yell to their teammates every day -- mostly directed across the line of scrimmage -not to tear them down, but to build them up. “Both of them were selected unanimously as team captains, and rightfully so,” Tribe head football coach Tim Perry said. “We identified the leadership qualities that Jay and Trent, not just vocal leaders, but the effort they gave in the weight room, the effort they gave on the practice field. The extra time they would put in on their own.” Stepping in leadership roles has been a long time coming for McDonald and Holley. Perry saw what the team had in the pair as freshmen, but he knew it would take time and experience would develop. Now entering their senior year, they’ve finally arrived at where their team needs them, even if sometimes they take it a little too far. “We have talked to those two young men for three years about don’t wait until your senior year. Establish yourself now, we need leaders right now and they’ve embraced that role,” the coach said. “They will get the team going. They will push it, and sometimes, we’ve got to rein them in a little

bit. “But as a coach, you’d rather rein in young men that have taken the role so seriously and personally. You’d much rather rein the players in than try to light a fire under them.” The immediate beneficiaries of Holley and McDonald’s leadership has been starting defensive ends Rico and Travarris Bozeman. Coaches have noticed -- and heard -- a difference in both juniors, who received significant playing time in 2015, coming into their first season as full-time starters. As a whole, the defensive line, led by McDonald and Holley, encompasses the tenacious spirit the Indians will carry into battle each Friday night this fall. “Leaders come in different forms. But Jay and Trent are really kind of the total package when it comes to that because they’re not just vocal,” Perry said. “They work hard at practice, they give great effort, they work hard in the weight room, in the summer workouts and conditioning. “They’re always on me about doing more, pushing the team harder. They have fulfilled all of our expectations as leaders. You need those kind of guys. Every team needs guys, you know, you need guys that are going to be consistent, to be there every day, work hard. You need guys that are going to step outside their comfort zone, and not necessarily draw attention to themselves, but to rally the team around them. Jay and Trent have done that and continue to do it.”

Wetumpka defensive linemen Rico Bozeman (8), Trent Holley (50), Jay McDonald (83) and Travarris Bozeman (42) bring the ruthless attitude to the Indians. The four, all over 6-foot tall and a weigh a combined 915 pounds, will wreak havoc on opposing quarterbacks this season.

2016 GRIDIRON GUIDE

AUGUST 2016

Tyler Anderson Senior Guard /// Holtville HS

Over the offseason, Holtville broke even, losing a First-Team All-Area offensive lineman then gaining another one right back. Transferring out of Edgewood Academy this summer, rising senior Tyler Anderson landed with the Bulldogs. The 6-foot-1, 305-pounder, who graded out the highest offensive lineman for EA in 2015, will play guard in Holtville’s flexbone triple option and will be a natural fit with his strength and athleticism for a big guy.

Jake Andrews Junior Center /// Stanhope Elmore HS

For different stints during the past two seasons for the Mustangs, Jake Andrews has had to play both sides of the ball out of need. After being an All-Area honorable mention on the defensive line last year, the rising junior has finally settled into the center position over the offseason, and in the process, picked up a scholarship offer from Troy University. With his strength and footwork for his size, Andrews (6-foot-3, 300) will be counted on in Stanhope Elmore’s offense.

2016 GRIDIRON GUIDE

Stanhope Elmore

MUSTANGS

AUGUST 2016

Team Specifics HEAD COACH STADIUM Mike Dean (1st year) Foshee-Henderson 2015 RECORD Stadium (2-7)

AHSAA CLASS 6A /// REGION 2 2016 Schedule

AUGUST 26 Prattville SEPTEMBER 2 at PARK CROSSING* 9 Wetumpka 16 NORTHVIEW* 23 Charles Henderson

30 at RUSSELL COUNTY* OCTOBER 7 G.W. CARVER* 14 at DOTHAN* 21 SIDNEY LANIER* 27 at Selma *Region Game

2016 ROSTER 1. Quincy Turner Sr. 3. Zech Byrd Sr. 4. Quinaz Turner Sr. 5. Marlon Hunt So. 6. Quantarius Daniels Jr. 7. Stanley Knight Sr. 8. Ty Pierce So. 9. K.T. Martin Sr. 10. Michael Dean Sr. 11. K.J. Stokes Jr. 12. Tripper Warlick Sr. 13. Kerenski McGhee So. 14. Kadin Anderson So. 15. Cameron Daniels Sr. 16. Johnny Montgomery Jr. 17. Jeremy Powers So. 18. Willie Burks Fr. 19. Derrion Ashley So. 20. Trey Hardy So. 21. Kareem Jackson Sr. 22. Krystopher Chapman So. 23. Owen Woodard So. 24. Travarasia Duncan Fr. 25. Larry Wright So. 26. Jaylen Toby Sr. 29. Keondre Palmer Jr. 30. Jaquevyus Hilliard So. 31. Adrian Laskey Fr. 32. Kelontae Varner Jr. 33. Matthew Arnold So. 34. William Nicholson So. 35. Caleb Davis Fr. 36. Gregory McKenzie Sr. 37. Derrick Butler So. 38. Tanner Sheffield Jr.

39. Alex Cheesman Sr. 42. Deandre Meadows Sr. 43. Jordan Epkins Fr. 45. Donald Allen Fr. 46. Quentarius Edwards Fr. 47. Melvin Brown Jr. 48. Tyler Jones Fr. 49. Frederick Moore Fr. 51. DeAndre Morgan Sr. 52. LaDorian Leonard So. 53. Christian Loving Fr. 54. Jake Andrews Jr. 55. Cordell Love So. 62. Latrell Davis Sr. 63. Jalen Morrow Fr. 66. Matthew Whitman So. 68. Hayden Williams Sr. 70. Connor Mathews Fr. 72. Tyurice Osborne Jr. 73. Jared Sims Sr. 74. Joshua Armstrong Jr. 75. Devron James Sr. 78. Stephen Cope Sr. 80. Shemar Pettaway So. 81. Devontae Mayes So. 82. Darius Williams So. 83. Bailey Barfoot So. 84. Jaylen Walker Fr. 85. Nicholas Hooks Fr. 87. Sharifullah Kochi Jr. 88. Jaden Greer So. 89. Samuel Ellis Fr. 90. Theodore Jackson Fr. 96. Zyurice Osborne Jr. 97. Ab McKeithen Jr.

Team BREAKDOWN DEFENSE LINEBACKERS Everything starts on defense for Stanhope Elmore this season. Inside Mustangs new head coach Mike Dean’s intricate, multiple packaged scheme, the attack launches from the linebacking troop. And within that group, the Jack linebacker makes the play, and this year, K.J.

Tripper Warlick /// QB

Stokes is “the man.” “The Mike linebackers makes the call, (rising senior Deandre Meadows), then it comes back to the Jack, which is K.J.,” Dean said of Stokes, who he moved from defensive line to outside linebacker. “It’s revolved around the Jack, he’s the one that makes plays. Jack is the man, so K.J. allows us to do what we do.” With Dean coming in as late as he did after longtime coach Jeff Foshee resigned in June, Stokes (6-foot-4, 240) and Meadows (5-foot-11, 220) are still getting

used to the scheme and making the right calls. Rising sophomores Ty Pierce and Krystopher Chapman round out the starting linebacker positions, and while they’re young, Dean likes what’s he seen so far. “Pierce, it’s taking some time, but he’ll get there -- he’s a little bit younger. Krys Chapman, playing At the Same linebacker spot. He’s just a sophomore, but I think he could be special. I really do. He’s a football player, he comes and gets you.”

2016 GRIDIRON GUIDE

AUGUST 2016

OFFENSIVE LINE

Sophomore safety Kerenski McGhee looks to be a major player for Stanhope. SECONDARY Much like the linebackers, safeties make their own separate calls for coverage, but it’s all about deception. “They’re echoing calls, we’re checking coverages -- they don’t know what we’re in. We’re disguising it,” Dean said. “If we’re in (cover three), it looks like two.” He lauded the performance of rising sophomore strong safety Marlon Hunt (5-foot-9, 175) and rising sophomore free safety Kerenski McGhee (5-foot-7, 155), as the defensive back will be charged to do a lot. “Marlon Hunt, he has picked his game up. And McGhee, those two young guys that are picking up what we’re doing. The safeties are quarterbacks, just like the Mike. It puts a lot of pressure on the (rising seniors Quincy and Quinaz Turner) at corner because they’ve got to lock on. “Quinaz, he’s a field corner. If they go wide side and try to isolate a good receiver, he’s going to be on them.”

DEFENSIVE LINE Up front defensively, Dean has been looking for consistency. Different packages will vary formations at the line of scrimmage as the Mustang defensive linemen will shift and move around to give off the multiple looks. “We’re going to be in a split middle. There’s a lot of communication, talking, everybody makes plays,” the coach said. “The d-line is going to make plays; the d-line can have 10 to 12 sacks.” Rising junior Kelontae Varner is poised to lead the attack on the defensive line for Stanhope that features new faces and starters. Senior O’Neal McKenzie transferred over from rival Wetumpka and rising freshman Frederick Moore will see his first varsity playing time this year. “To me, Varner is the one making more plays. He has a lot more passion, enthusiasm, his motor’s going. The other two can do it, it’s just the consistency. O’Neal, Varner and Moore, they all look the part. We just got to get them playing every snap where they start the first couple. “With all the slanting, moving, twisting, you’re doing something, so you’re going to make plays.”

OFFENSE

Last season left a huge chip on the offensive line’s shoulders. Dropping the first six games of 2015 and only scoring 28 points or more three times, winning two of those contests, the group up front have come together and feels like it got the necessary leadership, starting with rising junior center Jake Andrews, who holds an offer from Troy. “It helps that they face a defense (like ours). We blitz more than anybody, you’re not going to see as much as you see from us,” Dean said. “You’ve got to have a leader and that’s Andrews role and it’s only going to make him better at the next level. He’s taken that role and running with it.” Seniors Jared Sims, Latrell Davis, Hayden Williams and junior Joshua Armstrong fill out the rest of an offensive line looking for redemption. “They’ve got a little bit of a chip on their shoulder; 2-7 hurt them. That’s something you can build on.”

QUARTERBACKS The starting quarterback job belongs to Tripper Warlick. Knowing that could cure the offensive ailments after splitting time in 2015 with Tanner Anderson, who gave up football this season. “It’s huge for him that he’s not sharing time. I think last year, you saw it, it was back-and-forth, and I don’t think either one could really settle into that role,” Dean said. “I don’t think either one truly went out and took it. “Confidence is huge and when you’re constantly looking over your shoulder, it’s not easy. For him, knowing he’s the man -- he doesn’t have to win the ballgame, just don’t lose it. You’ve got the talent around you. He understands what’s expected of him. He’s a leader and he’s got experience and a great kid. And a good quarterback, too.” Behind Warlick, junior Johnny Montgomery is getting reps, as well as senior K.T. Martin, who normally lines up at receiver and running back.

SKILL POSITIONS

Quantarius Daniels /// RB

Mismatches outline the main focal point for the Mustangs offensive attack this season and it all starts with senior receiver and tight end Zech Byrd. At 6-foot-6, the University of Florida verbal commit presents opposing defenses with a tough decision, and Stanhope will do all it can

to exploit that decision. “(We’re going to get Byrd the ball) as much as possible. You’re not going to see him in a tight end position,” Dean said. “He’ll be the No. 1, he’ll be inside on the slot, he could be No. 3, No. 2, he could be isolated one-on-one. It’s a numbers game. We’re going to move him around. It’s a mismatch and I’ll take it every time. If he wants the ball, we’ll get him the ball. “We want to create mismatches elsewhere. We’ve got than one player.”

Mustangs head coach Mike Dean With Byrd on the outside, rising sophomores Kadin Anderson and Jeremy Powers has stepped up. But SEHS’s second top option resides in the backfield with returner Kareem Jackson, who’s been cleared after undergoing toe surgery in the offseason. “He’s ready to go for Prattville. We’ve got three, four guys; that’s one we got, we’ve got stable of running backs that can run. And I believe in that and each one brings a different element.” Seniors Stanley Knight (5-foot-10, 175) adds power from a fullback type position while junior Quantarius Daniels, more of a scat back, adds shiftiness.

SPECIAL TEAMS Ukrainian Alex Cheesman, a starter on Stanhope’s soccer team, will handle the kickoff and field goal duties. “He’s got a good leg, but we need more consistency. Kickers are psychological. Then, there’s a little language problem, so me yelling at me ain’t going to help,” Dean said. “He’s got to get better at field attempts; he gets nervous with bodies coming at him. But he’s not used to American football, so we keep practicing that.” Do-it-all player Jackson has taken over punting duties, but Dean admittedly hates punting. “We’ll punt with offensive personnel. I try to keep the ball, it’s always what I’ve done.” In the return game, Quinaz Turner gives the Mustangs a scoring threat with his 4.38 10-yard dash speed. Martin and Jackson will also field kicks. “You’re going to win two games or lose two games a year because of special teams. That’s a fact and that’s why we put our best players on it.”

Mustang linemen work through drills.

2016 GRIDIRON GUIDE

Wetumpka

INDIANS

AUGUST 2016

Team Specifics HEAD COACH STADIUM Tim Perry (5th year) Hohenberg Field 2015 RECORD (4-7) eliminated in 1st round of playoﬀs

AHSAA CLASS 6A /// REGION 3 2016 Schedule

AUGUST 19 at Prattville 26 Eufaula SEPTEMBER 2 at CHELSEA* 9 at Stanhope Elmore 16 at CHILTON COUNTY*

23 Greenville (HC) 30 PELHAM* OCTOBER 7 at HELENA* 14 OPELIKA* 21 BENJAMIN RUSSELL* *Region Game

2016 ROSTER 1. Nick Turner Jr. 2. David Arrington Jr. 4. Robert Laprade Jr. 5. DeAndre Williams Sr. 6. Trey Bryant Sr. 7. Kavosiey Smoke Jr. 8. Rico Bozeman Jr. 9. Clay Weldon Sr. 10. Keedrick Adams Jr. 11. Maurice Young Sr. 12. Demarco Wilson Jr. 13. Steven Smoke Sr. 14. Malik Johnson So. 15. Colton Adams So. 16. DeAndre Ezell Jr. 17. Trey McCreary Jr. 18. Jadarious Martin So. 19. Darrian Hill Jr. 20. Darren Nolen So. 21. Desimend Mathews Jr. 23. Kelton Elmore Jr. 24. Chase Adams Jr. 25. Kamyron Jackson So. 26. Jamarcus Townsend Sr. 27. Jaylen Oden Sr. 28. Cullen Powers So. 29. Jarkevious Harris So. 30. Noah Barclay So. 31. Christopher Carter So. 33. Jaylen George-Mitchell So. 34. Clay Spivey Jr. 35. Dennis Marshall So. 36. Trey Jones So.

37. Ethan Nettles Jr. 41. Marquez Broaden So. 42. Travarris Bozeman Jr. 43. Daquan Cook Jr. 45. Elijah Weems Sr. 46. Dustin Kemmerer So. 47. Dylan Evans Jr. 48. Terrence Crayton So. 50. Trent Holley Sr. 51. Elijah Elmore So. 52. Torien White Jr. 53. Nick Angus Jr. 54. Will Bowden Sr. 55. Tavien White Jr. 56. Dalton Knight Jr. 59. John Ellis Rawls Sr. 62. Jaylon Tarver Jr. 63. Maxwell Congo Jr. 64. Dalton Hawkins Sr. 65. Trenton White So. 66. Hunter Long So. 68. Kody Estes Sr. 72. Torey Loftin So. 73. Jacorey Murphy So. 77. Cody Tucker So. 80. Michael Johnston Sr. 81. Cameron Speake Sr. 82. Anthony Garcia So. 83. Jay McDonald Sr. 84. Tracy Brooks So. 85. Riley Palmer Sr. 86. Tyler Loza Sr. 88. E.J. Rogers So.

Jay McDonald /// DT

Team BREAKDOWN OFFENSE SKILL POSITIONS Wetumpka’s offense, which will field a new starting quarterback this season, likely won’t see much of a drop off as the team’s top two leading scorers return to lead the charge. Rising senior running back DeAndre Williams and fellow junior tailback Kavosiey Smoke are poised to pack

a more powerful and consistent punch. The duo gained 1,333 yards on the ground in 2015, with Smoke leading the way with 801. “DeAndre and Kavosiey were both elected captains, with Kavosiey as a junior that hasn’t happened very much since I’ve been here,” Indians head football coach Tim Perry said. “That’s a testament to his leadership, work ethic. Both young men are meeting our expectations in the weight room, on the practice field. “They’re practicing hard, giving us great effort, and

we’re excited about being able to go into the season with those two young men.” Senior Steven Smoke (5-foot-9, 200) moved from defense to the H-back position this offseason, giving the Tribe an extra blocker and another option to pick up tough, short yardage. Out wide, starting safety Nick Turner will see snaps at receiver to complement returning junior Keedrick Adams. “We’re not sure how many snaps Nick will get at receiver. But that gives us a 6-foot-4 receiver to put out

2016 GRIDIRON GUIDE

AUGUST 2016

there and be able to utilize his height and skills to create mismatches.”

OFFENSIVE LINE Collectively a year older, a lot more is expected out of the Indians’ offensive line. The unit returns three veteran starters in seniors center Will Bowden, left tackle Kody Estes and right guard John Ellis Rawls, as the eventual two new starters will learn and absorb assignments from the experienced trio. “In a shotgun offense, it helps to have (starting center Bowden) coming back that has that much experience of understanding the offense and the blocking schemes. Those three guys bring us experience to the offensive line,” Perry said. “We’ve got several other young men, senior Dalton Hawkins, he played last year. We’ve been giving him reps at guard. We’re not having to teach him a lot of things, he understands his assignments.” Former defensive line starters, and twin brothers, Tavien and Torien White are vying for a spot on the offensive line, along with juniors Maxwell Congo, Dalton Knight and Jaylon Tarver.

QUARTERBACKS

best for our team and give us the best chance for the offense to move the ball, then yes, we’re not going to hesitate at all about playing two quarterbacks. One’s a passer and one’s a runner,” Perry said. “If they’re both able to execute the offense, then that’s going to make us harder to defend because defenses have to get ready for two styles of quarterbacks.”

DEFENSE DEFENSIVE LINE Wetumpka needed more speed on defense, and this season, that speed starts up front on the defensive line. Three-year starters Trent Holley and Jay McDonald anchor a quicker and stronger defensive front. With playing time at all positions on the line, McDonald (6-foot-5, 245), who missed most of 2015 with an injured elbow, and Holley (6-foot-2, 240) will stack the inside this year. “We felt like that their style of play, as physical as they are, they would be better suited to play defensive tackle,” Perry said. The move freed up the defensive end spots for junior pair, and cousins, Rico Bozeman and Travarris Bozeman, who both received a significant amount of playing time as sophomores. Their length, Rice listed at 6-foot-3 and Travarris at 6-foot-2, along with their swifter step gives the Tribe better pursuit to the outside. “Rice and Travarris are taller, leaner athletes. They runs a little bit better,” Perry said. “Moving Jay and Trent inside, and having Rico and Travarris outside, it gives us a little more speed with our defensive front.”

In the quarterback competition, DeAndre Ezell has the slight edge but Perry still likes rising sophomore Jadarious Martin and what he brings to the offense. “(Ezell’s) got a slight edge based on making plays. It’s still pretty close because Jadarious Martin, they are two different types of quarterback,” the coach said. “DeAndre’s strength right now is throwing the ball. Jadarious, his strength is making plays with his feet. Both are doing an excellent job. Ezell has a year of varsity experience, he’s used to reading high school coverages, the tempo of the high school game and the way high school defenses stem their coverages. We have confidence in both of them.” Regardless of who starts at quarterback, the other will see the field at wide receiver. But Perry can see both sharing the Rising junior quarterback DeAndre Ezell signal caller position. “If that’s what’s going to be gives Tribe a threat in the passing game.

SECONDARY Of the nine starters coming back on the defensive side of the ball, a third of them roam the secondary. Turner takes over a leadership role for the unit at strong safety, while junior David Arrington and senior Jamarcus Townsend, at free safety and cornerback, respectively, look

Wetumpka Flea Market & Antiques • 25,000 Sq. Ft. • Air Conditioned • 114 Dealers 5266 US HWY. 231 • WETUMPKA

(In the Winn-Dixie Shopping Center Behind KFC)

334.567.2666

to bolster the group’s effectiveness on Friday nights. “That’s the advantage of having returning staters; they’ve been in these big games. These guys on defense, some of them have started for 22 games,” Perry said. “That experience should help us in not to be as nervous and uncertain going into a season because now you’ve played in games, practices, all different style of offenses we gone against and the different type of athletes. We ought to be accustomed to that.” Trey McCreary, Darren Nolen, Trey Jones and Robert Laprade are all competing to fill out the other cornerback position.

LINEBACKERS Perry and the coaching staff were admittedly concerned about the depth of their linebackers coming out of spring practice. But the summer and offseason progression of a handful of guys have eased the worry some. Rising junior Kelton Elmore (5-foot-10, 220), after getting playing time the last two years, appears ready to take the reins of the group. And after being hindered in 2015 by a shoulder issue, junior Chase Adams has come back strong, while his younger brother, Colton has been impressive during team workouts. “Colton has really impressed us coming out of spring. He’s very physical, reads really well, he understands the schemes and has had a great summer,” Perry said of the sophomore. Senior Elijah Weems, the most experienced linebacker on the team, will help provide depth and look to contribute.

SPECIAL TEAMS Replacing place kicker Will Digmon, who signed with Huntingdon College as a kicker, will not be easy. Two-year backup Tyler Loza, now entering his senior season, looks prepared to assume field goal and kickoff duties, but the Tribe coaches are leaving the competition open. “We’re going to play the players that’s making the plays, not just in games but in practice. And the guys that is most consistent,” Perry said. “Rick Cahalane, our new coach and special teams coordinator, is doing a great job with that. It’s a constant evaluation.” Edgewood Academy transfer Maurice Young, along with Willliams, Smoke and Laprade will vie for kick and punt returning duties. Williams, returning KO last yera, Smoke, Laprade, Maurice Young is very explosive and has ability to return punts and kickoffs. Punts, Turner. Several giuys have those skill and all guys getting reps.

2016 GRIDIRON N GU GUID GUIDE ID DE

Zech Byrd

Senior Tight End /// Stanhope Elmore HS No other high school prospect in the state blew up on the recruiting trail this offseason quicker than Stanhope Elmore tight end Zech Byrd. During a two-week span in February, Byrd picked up nine scholarship offers, from prominent SEC and Big Ten programs, before verbally committing to the University of Florida on Aug. 6. Coaches like Alabama’s Nick Saban and Michigan’s Jim Harbaugh love the three-star 6-foot-6, 240-pound tight end’s size and ceiling. Byrd only caught 15 passes as a junior, but new Mustang head coach Mike Dean plans to get the Gator commit the ball as often as possible.

Trent Holley

Senior Defensive Tackle /// Wetumpka HS The motor never stops running for Trent Holley. One of the strongest players on Wetumpka’s roster, the rising senior defensive tackle will look to build off the solid junior campaign where he led the Indians defense in sacks (4) and recorded 46 tackle en route to grabbing First-Team All-Area honors. At 6-foot-2, 240 pounds, Holley is also one of the more versatile guys at head coach Tim Perry’s disposal, as Holley sees snaps on offense in the team’s “heavy” package. A team captain and a leader, the senior lineman is poised for a breakout year.

AUGUST AUGU AU GUST S 22016 ST 0166 01

2016 GRIDIRON GUIDE

AUGUST 2016

Kavosiey Smoke Junior Running Back /// Wetumpka HS

It’s been a busy offseason for Kavosiey Smoke. After leading the Wetumpka offense in rushing yards (801) and attempts (126) as a sophomore, the 6-foot, 215-pound tailback stamped his own style of running that translated into two scholarship offers from Division I schools, headlined by the University of Florida from the SEC. Putting on a few more pounds of muscle, Smoke will look to be more physical in the Tribe’s ground game and is fit to pick up more offers from prominenet collegiate programs as his junior year progresses.

KJ Stokes

Junior Outside Linebacker /// Stanhope Elmore HS K.J. Stokes already looks the part. As a sophomore playing most snaps on the defensive line for Stanhope Elmore, the 6-foot-4, 230-pounder recorded 76 tackles, including six sacks and forced two fumbles en route to nabbing an All-Area First-Team selection. Under new head coach Mike Dean, Stokes, who already has a scholarship offer from Troy University, will play at the Jack linebacker spot, putting the athletic junior with deceptive speed in space and in position to run down opponents and make stops in space.

2016 GRIDIRON GUIDE

Tallassee

AUGUST 2016

Team Specifics HEAD COACH 5A playoﬀs Mike Battles Jr. (5th year) STADIUM 2015 RECORD J.E. “Hot” O’Brien Stadium (5-6), lost in 1st round of

TIGERS

AHSAA CLASS 4A /// REGION 3 2016 Schedule

AUGUST 19 at Russell County 26 W.S. Neal SEPTEMBER 2 HANDLEY* 9 at CHILDERSBURG* 16 MUNFORD*

23 T.R. Miller 30 at DADEVILLE* OCTOBER 6 HOLTVILLE* 14 at LEEDS* 20 at ELMORE COUNTY* *Region Game

2016 ROSTER 1. Kalvin Levett So. 2. John Hucerson So. 3. Kiwanis Woods Jr. 4. Matt Justiss Fr. 5. Markevious Mathews So. 6. Tavarious Griffin Fr. 7. Napoleon Foster-Reed Fr. 8. Jacob Burton Jr. 10. Jonovan Miller So. 12. De’Markion Ferguson Jr. 14. Eryn Cochran-Gill So. 15. Joshua Griffin So. 16. Brady Hancock Sr. 18. Casey Baynes Jr. 19. Bobby Baker Fr. 20. Devyn Dumas Sr. 21. Logan Goodman Sr. 23. Jamarcus Miller Sr. 25. Troy Nabors Sr. 27. Kaleb Graham Fr. 31. Devan Reeves Fr. 32. Tyrek Turner Fr. 33. JaDarrion Williams Fr.

34. Anderson Baker So. 42. Jake Justiss So. 44. Derrick Hooks Fr. 50. Keno Morris Sr. 51. Caleb Stewart Jr. 52. Dylan Kidd Jr. 54. Cody Gilson So. 55. AnDarius Ferguson Jr. 56. Nicholas Talley Sr. 58. Ethan Ogburn Jr. 59. William Blocker Fr. 60. Trevor McDonald Fr. 61. Luke Miller Fr. 62. Jacob Webster Fr. 63. Cody Kelley So. 64. Jacob Baker Sr. 65. Eng’Tavius Briskey-Chappell Fr. 76. Ethan Pugh Jr. 78. Xavier Williams Sr. 81. Brandon Easterwood So. 84. Barry Purter Fr. 85. Jeremiah Gamble So. 99. Thomas Jones Sr.

Logan Goodman /// TE

Team BREAKDOWN Contributed Report Ask Tallassee head coach Mike Battles, Jr. where he wants to be consistently strong, he won’t pull any punches – offensive and defensive lines. This season, he is working for depth on both. It’s a big reason the fifth-year coach of the Tigers has a little more hop in his step at practice.

“Our front seven will be our strength on both sides,” he said. “ (It’s the) best offensive line we’ve had since I’ve been here and we’ve got backups there.” Led by seniors Nick Talley, Jake Baker and tight end Logan Goodman, Tallassee should have the bulk up front for a solid running game, which has been their bread and butter since Battles arrived. Despite his enthusiasm, depth might still be an issue at

other positions, but Battles has a plan for that, too. “We will have to spell (the linemen) because they are also on defense,” Battles said. “The second group may not be as good as the first group. “We are teaching three kids to play two positions, four kids to play three and five to play four. We are looking for a backup at safety and at corner because you know somebody’s going to get hurt and there are a few of our

AUGUST 2016

2016 GRIDIRON GUIDE

Rising senior offensive lineman Jake Baker (64) will help pave the way for the Tigers’ Old Notre Dame Box rushing attack. ninth graders that have shined in the summer such as (defensive backs) Matthew Baker and Caleb Graham. You can tell they are starting to catch on.” Tallassee had 44 dressing out in preseason, eight of which started at some point last year. Most made all of their workouts during the summer, and that has their head coach smiling. The strongest players on the team will make up the

right side of the line. “Nick and Jake benched 355 (pounds) and I stopped them on 500 (pounds) on the squat,” Battles said. “They’ve been working out five days a week since January. All these kids have been. They are all stronger.” It might help that Tallassee is dropping back from Class 5A to 4A but the region includes the reigning state champion Leeds as well as what may have been the second-best team in the classification last season in Munford. Battles is pressing the “next play” attitude wanting the Tigers to look ahead. “That’s our motto this season – next play,” he said. “We can’t do anything about last year or the last play. It’s over – focus on what’s in front of you. If we take that mindset with everything we do, we’ve got a chance to be pretty good.” Junior Casey Baynes is set to start at quarterback, who Battles compares to favorably a family member. “He reminds me of his brother, Jed,” Battles said. “He makes plays and that’s all we ask him to do. If we need him to throw it in the stands to protect the football, that’s what he’ll do.” The Tigers will be somewhat young in the backfield but the speed is there. Markevious MatCasey Baynes will add an aerial dimension to the offense. thews and Kiwanis Woods

Tallassee head coach Mike Battles should carry the load. If Tallassee is to improve its 5-6 record from a year ago, it will be on the senior class. “The potential is there. Our seniors are taking the lead and they have the experience that should help us this year,” Battles said. The Tigers open Aug. 19 on the road against Russell County.

Kalvin Levett /// WR

2016 GRIDIRON GUIDE

AUGUST 2016

Emerald Mtn.

PATRIOTS ACEA /// 6-MAN DIVISION 2016 Schedule AUGUST 19 VICTORY BAPTIST* SEPTEMBER 2 CAHAWBA CHRISTIAN* 9 at MARION ACADEMY* 23 at CHILTON CHRISTIAN*

30 BROOKLANE* (HC) OCTOBER 7 at MEADOWVIEW* 21 CLAY COUNTY*

Team Specifics HEAD COACH Troy Campbell (1st year) 2015 RECORD (5-2), played ACEA JV STADIUM Patriots Field

2016 ROSTER

*Region Game

1. Alex Santana Sr. 2. Mathewe Mitchell Sr. 3. Noah Smith Jr. 4. Stephan Thornton Jr. 5. Cole Campbell Fr. 6. Kyle Cornelius Fr. 7. Alex Hutchenson Fr. 8. Coley Spivey Fr. 9. Jackson Waid Fr. 10. John David Edwards 7th.

Team BREAKDOWN Emerald Mountain Christian School will set its biggest milestone to date -- five years in the making -- when it opens the 2016 football season. Preparing its players and program through junior high and junior varsity and installing their own football field, the Patriots will play its first varsity game in the Alabama Christian Education Association when its hosts Victory Baptist School to open the season. To help usher in the team and school into a new era is first year head coach Troy Campbell, who’s been on the football staff the last couple of years. And much like when EMCS started the football program, this season is all about building. “Growing the boys into good young men,” Campbell said. “Put Christ first and good sportsmanship. Wins or losses doesn’t mean everything, but we want to built them into a good program for next year and see if we can get better. We’re just working for the long term.” While only three return from last season’s squad, Emerald Mountain gets back senior defensive playmaker Alex Santana, who was forced to miss 2015 due to being a junior. “It’s going to be huge. We’ve got three or four big players from last year that are coming back, that will be leaders on the field,” Campbell said. “They already know the plays, they can help run them correctly with the new guys.

Mathewe Mitchell /// RB

We’ve done good this summer getting players to come in, so this will be huge to have them here to help teach them.”

OFFENSE Campbell expects the smoothest transition for the Pats to varsity level of play on the offensive side of the ball, as all four returners, Santana, Stephan Thornton, Cole Campbell and Jackson Waid hold key roles. Couple the experience with speed and athleticism in a spread-type scheme, EMCS hopes to put a lot of points on the board. “They’re going to be in a starting position and the other boys are just as good. We’re going to do the spread offense a lot, we’re going to do the power offense a lot,” Campbell said. “We’ve got several options and we’re going to slow the tempo down to give us time to rest. We want control.” While they’ll mostly line up front, Cole Campbell and Waid, with their still present a passing threat from freshman newcomer quarterback Coley Spivery and allows the Patriots to keep their opponents honest to open things up for Mitchell and Thornton. “Jackson and Cole have good hands, I like to throw to them a lot because they can catch just as good as any other

receiver I got. (With their speed Thornton and Mitchell) puts us a step ahead of the game. If we can get someone out in front to block for them, there’s no telling what can happen. If we can one good block, they’re gone.”

DEFENSE “Attack, attack, attack” is how Campbell described the mantra of the EMCS defense. The speed of Thornton and Mitchell, who’ll play at linebacker and defensive back, respectively, plus the fearlessness of Santana at middle linebacker will drive the unit. “We’re going to get in the backfield before they can get the handoff or pass, we’re going to be there. I’m going to put my fastest boys in the middle, they’re going to bust through,” the coach said. “I’m going to put my bigger boys outside, controlling the ends. “Alex Santana, a senior, great running back and one of my main linebackers. He doesn’t think, he just goes and hits somebody. That’s all he wants to do. He can really hit somebody. John David Edwards, first year seventh-grade. Kyle Cornelius, first year, be good on the offensive side, he’s got a lot of speed. Tall guys so he can do well at the defensive back position or defensive end.”

2016 GRIDIRON GUIDE

AUGUST 2016

New Life Chr.

EAGLES

ACEA /// 8-MAN DIVISION 2016 Schedule

AUGUST 26 at GUNN CHRISTIAN* SEPTEMBER 2 FIRST ASSEMBLY* 9 TABERNACLE CHR.* 16 MEADOWVIEW* 23 VICTORY (MS)* (HC)

Team Specifics HEAD COACH Tommy Merrell (1st year) 2015 RECORD (5-4) STADIUM Eagle Stadium

30 at EAST MEMORIAL* OCTOBER 7 TUSCALOOSA CHR.* 14 at FIRST ASSEMBLY* 21 at RUSSELL CHRISTIAN* *Region Game

2016 ROSTER 1. Garic Brittain 2. Jon Cuevas 3. Christian Arrington 4. Ross Deavers 5. Elijah Gordy 6. Bailey Hamrick 7. Jacoby Lightfoot 8. Daniel Talley 9. Charlie Turner 10. Brent Estes 11. Isaac Gordy 12. Ben Hall-Agerton 13. Isaac Merrell 14. Kaleb Varner 15. Jackson Ratliff 16. Keston Spires

Jr. Jr. So. So. So. So. So. So. So. Fr. Fr. Fr. Fr. Fr. 8th 8th

Team BREAKDOWN When New Life Christian Academy players learned who their new head coach was going to be for the 2016 season, there were cheers and excitement. Tommy Merrell took over the Eagles in mid-July, becoming the team’s second head coach in as many years. But he wasn’t new coach to the program. “I coached the defense last year; I’ve been here for five years,” Merrell said. “First of all, consistency is the main thing. “A lot of the kids have been around me a whole year, many of them since eighth- and seventh-grade, and we know each other really well. It’ll make the transition a lot easier. With them being excited about it makes it easier on me.” Consistency will be more imperative this season, Merrell said, as six key seniors graduated off the 2015 team that improved its record from 2-8 in 2014 to 5-4 and nearly making the Alabama Christian Education Association 8-man Division playoffs. “Last year’s team was senior-led. This year, we don’t have a single senior,” Merrell said. “We’ve got a young team, mostly sophomores and freshmen, a couple of juniors. We don’t have a lot of experience. But they’re a feisty group, and you have to be when you’re smaller than everybody else. We’ll have our

Jon Cuevas /// DE, TE

quarterback back; he’s not a rookie so that should help. “I do believe we can build on last year, and keep it going and try to make the playoffs.”

OFFENSE Rising sophomore signal caller Ross Deavers returns to command a quick-hitting spread offensive attack, a stark contrast to the downhill scheme from a season ago. “Him having a year’s experience and coming in and knowing what looks the defense gives him, knowing what play and understanding that not every play has to be a big play -- going for the home runs led to interceptions. This year, he understands it’s alright to get five yards, to throw it away,” Merrell said of Deavers. “He’ll help out with consistency at quarterback and we’ll be able to stay in most of our games, if not all of them this year.” Kaleb Varner, who will be the Eagles’ most trusted skill guy, will vie for snaps as well with his athleticism, Merrell said. Three-year starting guard Jacoby Lightfoot, a sophomore, is the lone returning starter on the offensive

line. Junior Garic Brittain and freshman Isaac Merrell look to fill out the line.

DEFENSE Welcoming in many first-time starters, New Life’s defense hopes to bend the learning curve with a focus on flipping the turnover battle it lost last season. “If we get the ball turned over, it puts our offense in a better position to score. Last year, we gave up a lot of long touchdown passes,” Merrell said. “We’ve got to stop that, get more pressure on the quarterback and we’ll rely on our defensive line to do that. And we need to hold coverage longer that two seconds.” The new coach said he’ll charge Deavers, who returns at middle linebacker, and newcomer Christian Arrington at safety with anchoring pass coverage. As far as pressuring the quarterback? Isaac Merrell at defensive tackle and junior John Cuevas will be a major factor, penetrating the weak side of the line. “We feel he has the best advantage putting him on their weakest blocker. With his length, if he doesn’t get to the quarterback, he can get his arms up and distract the quarterback.”

2016 GRIDIRON GUIDE

AUGUST 2016

Victory Baptist

EAGLES

ACEA /// 6-MAN DIVISION 2016 Schedule

AUGUST 19 at EMERALD MTN.* 26 at MARION ACADEMY* SEPTEMBER 2 at BROOKLANE* 9 at CLAY COUNTY*

Team Specifics HEAD COACH Jim Hardy (4th year) 2015 RECORD (7-3) lost in ACEA state title game STADIUM Victory Baptist Field

30 MEADOWVIEW* OCTOBER 7 CORNERSTONE* 14 CAHAWBA CHRISTIAN* 21 CHILTON CHRISTIAN* *Region Game

2016 ROSTER 1. D.J. Davidson 2. V’anthony Phillips 4. Tristan Finley 11. Tanner Talley 20. Josh Lopez 21. Jacob Groff 22. Carter Byrd 25. Brandon Hollon 26. Will Fondren 27. Ryan Owens 29. William Duhon 42. Nick Wizkonski 62. Jarod Reeves 66. Gerald Reeves

Jr. Fr. Jr. Sr. Fr. So. Jr. Sr. So. So. So. Sr. Fr. Fr.

Team BREAKDOWN Victory Baptist School said goodbye to a lot during and after last season. Coming off two straight undefeated state championship seasons, the Eagles saw their win streak end at 22 games, losing in Week 3 to Cullman Christian Academy, who also caged their ascension at the top in the 2015 Alabama Christian Education Association 6-man state title game. After the season, Victory lost arguably it most paraded player in history in quarterback Mason Byrd, who signed with Faulkner University May 5. Head football coach Jim Hardy said through the loses of last year -- VBS finished 7-3 -- his team gained one thing. “I think as a whole, the players learned what it takes to prepare and it doesn’t mean that because the team before won, it doesn’t mean you’ll win,” Hardy said. “We won two straight and were going for three, they thought they could show up and were supposed to win. “The other guys prepared for us to beat us. I got told by the team in the state championship game that they spent three weeks preparing for us. But he had a better team and more talent, too.” With his largest roster at Victory at 16 players, Hardy’s hopeful he team can regain the championship attitude.

Brandon Hollon /// QB

“They understand, the older ones, what it takes. And hopefully they can bring the younger ones up. We’ve got a mixture of good talent. You never know where you’re going, but I like the start of it anyway.”

OFFENSE First things first for the Eagles is finding a replacement for Byrd, a pro style signal caller who threw for more than 6,000 yards in three years. While he hasn’t settled on a successor, Hardy knows things will run differently and has the potential to be multidimensional. “The position will be quicker that it’s ever been, footwise. We may not be as accurate and as mentally prepared as Mason was, but we’ll have a more athletic type quarterback.” Rising senior Brandon Hollon, sophomore Will Fondren and lefty junior D.J. Davidson are all vying for the spot. “It’s about which one settled into the mental side. They’re all talented and throw pretty good, so we’ll see who can be mentally prepared and settle into their own quicker than the others.” Hardy said whomever doesn’t win the quarterback

will still hold a key offensive playmaking spot, either at running back or receiver. Sophomore William Duhon and Prattville High School transfer Tristan Finely, a junior, will factor in as well.

DEFENSE Victory lost two regular season games by three combined points and then imploded to allow 54 points in the state title game loss to Cullman. The way last season concluded left a bad taste in the Eagles’ mouth. “I think I can definitely see the emphasis (of the last game) in our summer program. The kids are understanding how to prepare,” Hardy said. “The loss has motivated the offseason program.” Rising senior Tanner Talley (6-foot-3, 205) looks to lead a defense that will feature four new starters, who Hardy expects to find a rhythm as the season goes. “I feel like just because of the tradition of what’s going on here, the younger ones see what we’ve done and the work to get to this point. A lot of the young kids upand-coming, we felt like last year, were just as talented,” the coach said. “We have a good chance of being a good defense, we just got to get them game reps early.”

2016 GRIDIRON GUIDE

AUGUST 2016

Will Venable

Senior Quarterback /// Elmore County HS Will Venable will captain the Panther attack as one of only four starters returning on the offense. As a junior, the quarterback earned an All-Area honorable mention last year, throwing for 1,299 yards and 18 touchdowns. As the area’s lone starting quarterback coming back this season, Venable is expected to have a breakout year and help guide the Panthers to its first Class 4A playoff berth in five years.

DeAndre Williams Senior Running Back /// Wetumpka HS

Sharing snaps with another elite running back, DeAndre Williams made the most of the opportunities when his number was called in 2015, leading Wetumpka’s offense with 12 touchdowns on just 97 carries, all the while catching the eye of a handful of bigtime college programs such as Clemson. The 6-foot-3, 205 pound tailback finished with 532 yards, an average of more than five yards a touch. With the Indians backfield still intact, Williams will play an even bigger role in the offense as he looks to finish his career strong.

2016 GRIDIRON GUIDE

AUGUST 2016

ASWA PRESEASON FOOTBALL POLL Class 7A

Class 3A

1. McGill-Toolen (27) (13-1) 347 2. James Clemens (2) (10-2) 248 3. Hoover (1) (10-3) 219 4. Central-Phenix City (9-4) 172 5. Spain Park (12-2) 169 6. Bob Jones (9-2) 164 7. Hewitt-Trussville (6-5) 158 8. Murphy (7-4) 98 9. Auburn (7-5) 49 10. Gadsden City (5-5) 32

1. Piedmont (28) (14-1) 354 2. Gordo (2) (12-1) 266 3. T.R. Miller (10-3) 190 4. Bayside Acad. (11-4) 173 5. Hillcrest-Evergreen (8-6) 168 6. Opp (8-4) 158 7. Montevallo (9-3, 4A) 81 8. Colbert Co. (10-4) 74 9. Daleville (10-2) 69 10. Oakman (8-4) 57

Others receiving votes: Lee-Montgomery (8-4) 21, Jeff Davis (6-4) 10, Baker (6-4) 7, Buckhorn (6-5) 6, Vestavia Hills (9-3) 5, Mary G. Montgomery (3-7) 3, Prattville (6-4) 2.

Others receiving votes: Lauderdale Co. (9-4) 29, American Chr. (10-2) 22, Clarke Co. (4-7, 4A) 17, Straughn (5-6, 4A) 17, Mobile Chr. (10-2, 2A) 15, Glencoe (9-2) 8, Pike Co. (9-2) 6, N. Sand Mountain (7-5) 4, Excel (2-8) 1, Randolph Co. (13-1, 2A) 1.

Class 6A 1. Spanish Fort (29) (15-0) 357 2. Clay-Chalkville (1) (14-1) 264 3. Blount (10-2) 217 4. Hillcrest-Tuscaloosa (8-4) 170 5. Opelika (12-1) 162 6. Oxford (3-7) 145 7. Park Crossing (8-3) 103 8. Saraland (8-3) 76 9. Bessemer City (8-5) 54 10. Benjamin Russell (12-2) 38 Others receiving votes: Hazel Green (5-6, 6A) 33, Parker (7-5, 5A) 26, Austin (10-4) 12, McAdory (10-2) 12, Carver-Montgomery (3-7) 8, Minor (8-5) 7, Florence (4-6) 6, Hartselle (7-4) 5, Muscle Shoals (11-1) 5, Southside-Gadsden (5-5) 5, Homewood (9-3) 3, Gardendale (10-3)2.

Class 5A 1. St. Paul’s (29) (13-2) 356 2. Mortimer Jordan (1) (13-2) 263 3. Jackson (13-1) 234 4. Alexandria (11-2) 196 5. Russellville (11-2) 183 6. Etowah (7-4) 82 7. Beauregard (11-1) 75 8. Eufaula (9-3) 70 9. Brooks (11-2, 4A) 52 10. Guntersville (12-1) 41 Others receiving votes: Vigor (7-4) 37, Cleburne Co. (9-3, 4A) 28, Demopolis (10-3) 24, Mae Jemison-Huntsville (1st year) 21, Greenville (111) 15, Scottsboro (5-6, 6A) 15, Briarwood Chr. (5-7, 6A) 9, Hayden (8-4) 5, Sylacauga (7-4) 4.

Class 4A 1. UMS-Wright (17) (12-1) 300 2. Madison Acad. (6) (11-2, 3A) 240 3. Cordova (2) (13-1) 218 4. Munford (1) (10-4) 217 5. Andalusia (11-2) 179 6. Fayette Co. (10-5) 158 7. Leeds (4) (13-2) 136 8. Cherokee Co. (7-5) 69 9. North Jackson (7-5) 54 10. Thomasville (6-5) 39 Others receiving votes: Haleyville (6-5) 23, West Limestone (8-4) 21, Madison Co. (6-5, 5A) 13, Handley (8-3) 12, Childersburg (2-8) 6, Randolph (7-4, 5A) 6, Montgomery Catholic (4-6) 5, Bibb Co. (7-4) 4, Hale Co. (5-5, 3A) 4, Saks (8-3) 2, Trinity (8-4) 2, Satsuma (4-6) 1, Tallassee (5-6, 5A) 1.

Class 2A 1. Elba (27) (14-1) 351 2. Washington Co. (10-3) 217 3. Fyffe (13-2) 213 4. G.W. Long (12-1) 196 5. Lanett (5-5) 178 6. Tanner (3) (11-1) 162 7. New Brockton (9-2) 91 8. LaFayette (6-5) 88 9. Cleveland (12-1) 80 10. Aliceville (6-5, 3A) 68 Others receiving votes: Gaston (7-4) 15, Ranburne (10-2) 15, Red Bay (11-1) 13, Abbeville (3-7, 3A) 10, Sheffield (4-6) 3A 5, Southern Choctaw (2-8) 4, Leroy (5-5) 2, Fayetteville (93) 1, J.U. Blacksher (7-4, 1A) 1

Class 1A 1. Maplesville (19) (13-1) 298 2. Cedar Bluff (3) (13-2) 256 3. Linden (3) (10-3) 246 4. Brantley (5) (10-3) 235 5. Pickens Co. (8-4, 2A) 166 6. Notasulga (9-3) 121 7. Spring Garden (8-4) 106 8. Sweet Water (5-6) 100 9. Berry (10-3) 68 10. Decatur Heritage (12-2) 34 Others receiving votes: Georgiana (11-2) 22, Addison (5-6, 2A) 18, Woodville (4-7) 11, Marengo (7-5) 9, Wadley (10-2) 8, Hackleburg (10-2) 5, Cherokee (4-5, 2A) 3, Loachapoka (4-7) 3, Millry (7-4) 1.

AISA 1. Bessemer Acad. (28) (13-0) 354 2. Escambia Acad. (7-5) 249 3. Autauga Acad. (7-5) 226 4. Abbeville Chr. (12-1) 211 5. Monroe Acad. (1) (13-1) 193 6t. Edgewood Acad. (1) (13-0) 73 6t. Lowndes Acad. (5-5) 73 8. Fort Dale Acad. (6-5) 65 9. Marengo Acad. (10-2) 62 10. Jackson Acad. (7-5) <ws>50 Others receiving votes: Clarke Prep (8-4) 42, Chambers Acad. (10-3) 27, Lee-Scott (9-2) 25, Northside Methodist (7-4) 22, Pike Liberal (4-6) 15, Sparta Acad. (8-4) 8, Springwood (5-6) 8, Tuscaloosa Acad. (7-4) 4, Macon-East (3-8) 1, Patrician (6-5) 1, S. Choctaw Acad. (7-5) 1.

2016 GRIDIRON GUIDE

AUGUST 2016

• ALIGNMENTS • EXHAUST • TIRES/BRAKES • OIL CHANGES Visit us at: www.singletonsmufﬂer.com

334-567-6760 220 Company Street, Wetumpka, AL 36092

2016 GRIDIRON GUIDE

Edgewood Acad.

WILDCATS

AUGUST 2016

Team Specifics HEAD COACH AA state championship Eric Folmar (1st year) STADIUM 2015 RECORD Charles P. Storrs Field (13-0), won AISA Class

AISA CLASS AAA /// REGION 1 2016 Schedule

AUGUST 19 Morgan Academy** 26 Hope Christian SEPTEMBER 1 at Autauga Academy 9 at SPRINGWOOD* 16 LEE-SCOTT ACAD.* 23 Monroe Acad.

30 Abbeville Christian* OCTOBER 6 at GLENWOOD* 14 at TUSCALOOSA* 20 BESSEMER* *Region Game ** Game played at Faulkner University

2016 ROSTER 2. Alex Johnson 8th 3. Drez Crawford 8th 4. Dez Adam Fr. 6. Matt Wohlers Fr. 7. Cooper James Jr. 8. Blaine Guthrie 8th 10. Cole Freeman 8th 13. Rob Merritt 8th 20. Wilson Johnston 8th 21. Dawson Owens 8th 27. Tyler Abernathy So. 28. Matt Williams Jr. 30. Luke Sisson Fr. 32. Carson Peevy 8th 44. Jackson Welch 8th 50. Landon Maynard Fr. 51. Mitchell Boyd 8th 52. Brandon Boone Jr. 54. Joseph Benton 8th 55. Drew Hansen 8th 56. Jaxon Mulder 8th 57. Colby Futral Fr. 58. Caleb Justiss 8th 61. Clay Williams Fr. 65. Blake Walters Sr. 66. Michael Nemecheck Fr. 70. Seth Wilkins 8th 76. Korey Dawson Fr. 77. Cade Bazzell Fr.

Tyler Abernathy /// RB

Team BREAKDOWN OFFENSE QUARTERBACKS Everything has changed for Edgewood Academy. Over the last handful of years under former head coach Bobby Carr, the Wildcats lived through the air in most games during the current 71-game win streak, the nation’s active longest mark, than on the ground on offense.

That’ll change with new head coach Eric Folmar, ushering in a new starting quarterback in a new system. “They threw the ball around all over the place under coach Carr,” Folmar said. “We’re going to be a little more run-game oriented, and these (two potential starting quarterbacks) have enough athleticism about them that they can pull it down and run with it if they need to. They fit that mold.” Young, first-year varsity players Dez Adam (5-foot-5, 140) and Drez Crawford (5-foot-7, 160) have battled to

run the offense this preseason camp. A rising freshman and eighth-grader, respectively, Folmar said he won’t ask too much out of the pair. “Both are really good athletes. Drez is a really athletic kid, they’re both a little undersized as you expect guys that young to be,” the coach said. “We’re going to make it easy on them with the play calling and not ask too much. We’re really just trying to coach them and teach them at the moment. They haven’t been here before.

2016 GRIDIRON GUIDE

AUGUST 2016

OFFENSIVE LINE A lot will be asked of Blake Walters, Edgewood’s lone senior and only returning starter from a year ago. Walters (6-foot, 200) started at center on the 2015 undefeated, state championship squad and Folmar hopes Walters’ experience rubs off on the young linemen next to him. “He’s our anchor. Blake started at center last year, and we’d like to play him at left tackle if we can find someone else to snap it,” Folmar said. “But he may play center. He’s very experienced, he’s been around good football players, won a lot of games, he’ll be a good leader to our younger guys.” The rest of the ‘Cats will be first-time starters, with junior Brandon Boone being the only other upperclassman vying for a spot up front. Rising freshman Landon Maynard has nailed down one of the linemen positions, but Folmar said he’s still trying to place him. Eighth-grader Caleb Justiss has slid in at starting right tackle, leaving the interior line to fill.

DEFENSE DEFENSIVE LINE The handful of players who’ve been around the football program the last couple of years will not only have to get used to starting, but also be conditioned to be two-way players. After two years of offensive line work, Walters will start on the defensive line. Boone will fill another spot on the d-line in EA’s base, odd-man defensive front. Dependent on the opponent’s personnel, the ‘Cats will also drop down to a four-man line and coaches are in the process of finding the other two linemen. “We want to have athletic guys that can move around and do different things. We don’t have a bunch of big guys,” Folmar said. “So we want to be able to move, slant, stunt, move our front and put pressure on the opposing offense. We want to be difficult to block, that’s what we want.”

LINEBACKERS Linebacker is one of only two units for Edgewood this season that will see an experienced player suit up. Abernathy played in nine games in 2015 at outside linebacker, recording 13 total tackles, including a tackle-for-loss. In the team’s situation, the sophomore’s experience could mean a move from outside to inside linebacker as Folmar will look for a smooth transition and understanding. “At linebacker, we’ll rotate a lot guys. We’ve got a young freshman that just came in, Colby Futral, he moved back here from Texas,” Folmar said. “He’s shown some good thing in the short time he’s been with us. He’s a young kid, but he’s very smart. He’s been very well-coached and he understands Wildcat athlete Dez Adam will wear many hats on oﬀense and how to play the game.” James, who had two tackles defense this season. in one game on defense last season, will see time at linebacker, as well as rising freshman Matt Wohlers and eighth-grader Carson Peevy. SKILL POSITIONS Keeping up with the trend, EA’s skill positions will consist of first-year starters. But the backfield will feature a couple of guys that have been in the Edgewood program. Despite receiving playing time last season on defense, rising junior Cooper James and sophomore Tyler Abernathy will help the offense generate positive plays from the starting plug/tight end and running back spots, respectively. “It’s good to have guys that have been around for a little while and have experience. When I came in, at first it was difficult to implement a new system with new guys,” Folmar said. “We’ll do some of the same, but it’s been a learning curve for everybody. It’ll help to have the older guys who understand the game a little bit. They’ve done a good job of being leaders for the younger guys, of showing them the ropes and showing them what it takes to be successful.” When not playing quarterback, Adam and Crawford will line up at wide receiver, while eighth-grader Blaine Guthrie will provide depth at running back.

SECONDARY As a whole, the ‘Cats secondary arguably might be the most athletic group on the team. Folmar plans to make opponents passing the ball to beat the best of what EA’s got to offer athleticially as he’ll have Adam starting at one of the corner spots, while rising junior Matt Williams is set to lead the defensive backfield from one of the safety spots. Williams appeared in three games during his sophomore campaign in 2015, picking up a cou-

Edgewood Academy head coach Eric Folmar ple of tackles. With other young players, like freshman Luke Sisson filling out the other starting cornerback role and Crawford could be considered at the other safety position at times, Williams will be directing traffic in the secondary. “He’s a returning kid, he’s been around for a while. I think he’s a smart kind; he understands what we want from him,” Folmar said. “At the other safety spot, we could roll out Drez there, but if he’s the starting quarterback, we want to keep him off defense as much as possible.

SPECIAL TEAMS Folmar doesn’t know who will be handling the specialist duties just yet, but what he does know is special teams for the Wildcats this year will be all about advantage. “All of that is up in the air with a lot of guys at those spots. It’s the same names we’ve talked about,” the coach said. “We want to keep our opponents from beating us on special teams. “I think that’s something we have to do, do some things on special teams that give us an advantage and try to steal a few possessions in the game.”

Elmore County Finance 102 Company Street • Wetumpka, AL Sheri H. Dunn, Manager

334-567-3020

We Love You, Blake Walters

2016 GRIDIRON GUIDE

Holtville

BULLDOGS

AUGUST 2016

Team Specifics HEAD COACH STADIUM Hunter Adams (5th year) Boykin Field 2015 RECORD (0-10)

AHSAA CLASS 4A /// REGION 3 2016 Schedule

AUGUST 19 Central-Hayneville 26 Marbury SEPTEMBER 2 CHILDERSBURG* 9 at MUNFORD* 16 DADEVILLE* 23 Horseshoe Bend (HC)

30 at LEEDS* OCTOBER 7 at TALLASSEE* 14 ELMORE COUNTY* 21 at HANDLEY* 28 at Beulah *Region Game

2016 ROSTER 2. Drew Nobles So. 3. Zach Weldon Sr. 4. Todd Buck Jr. 5. Cody Gibson Sr. 6. Brady Richardson Jr. 8. Dajon Reeves So. 12. Antonio Hall Sr. 13. Alex Boling Jr. 16. Blake Harris Sr. 20. Hunter Martin Fr. 21. Kolby Potts Fr. 22. Peyton Johnson Sr. 24. Preston Whetstone Fr. 25. Hunter Bowdoin Sr. 26. Tristan Watson So. 27. Sam Jackson So. 28. Tristan McQueen Fr. 32. Wesley Lide Fr. 33. Tristan Bullard Fr. 36. Tony Bullard So. 48. Evan Headley Jr. 50. Nathan Smith Sr. 52. Carson Haynes So. 60. Billy Hacker Sr. 62. Cody Clements Sr. 64. Justin Hauswirth So. 65. Justin Hogan Jr. 66. Jacob Nowak Sr. 68. Dalton Carpenter So. 72. Tyler Anderson Sr. 74. Preston Hall So. 75. Jadon Kytle Sr. 77. Blake Talley Jr.

Nathan Smith /// OL, NG

Team BREAKDOWN OFFENSE OFFENSIVE LINE Before adding senior transfer Tyler Anderson, a three-year starter at Edgewood Academy, to the unit, Holtville’s offensive line had started 120 in their high school career. Anderson (6-foot-1, 305) gives the Bulldogs four

seniors out of five starting on the line, with center Nathan Smith, left tackle Billy Hacker and left guard Cody Clements, while the junior Blake Talley returns for his fourth year starting. “It better be (our best offensive line),” HHS head football coach Hunter Adams said. “Most of these guys are three-year starters, and one of the struggles we had in the past, we’ve been so young up front. In the region we’re in, that’s tough to overcome.” Holtville lost All-Area First-Team offensive line

selection B.J. Burke during the offseason due to transferring out, but Adams said having a seasoned veteran like Anderson come in smoothed out the transition. In the second year of the offense running the flexbone triple option, the team will rely heavily on the big guys up front. “We’ve got a lot of experience up front -- not to mention they’re big and strong. We really need that group to be the heart and soul of the team.”

AUGUST 2016

QUARTERBACKS

2016 GRIDIRON GUIDE

point, he plays downhill, he’s very intelligent, he gives you another coach on the field,” Adams said of the 5-foot-11, 180-pounder. “He’s developing exceptionally well.” Playing alongside Headley are Harris, who’s only playing his second year of football, and Holtville newcomer Bowdoin. “Hunter Bowdoin is a go hard guys with an incredibly high football IQ. Blake Harris, is a senior, a physical kid, tough kid, smart kid,” the coach said. Rising senior Peyton Johnson will likely fill out the other outside linebacker position, and sophomore Tony Bullard could see playing time as well.

Rising sophomore Drew Nobles will assume the outright starting quarterback spot after starting five games last season as a freshman. At 6-foot-1, 175 pounds, the signal caller will keep the athleticism at the position, but more importantly, Adams said, will bring something to the offense it’s been missing the last two years of winless football. “He learned a lot last season and learned a lot this summer. He is a very selfless quarterback,” Adams said. “In this system, you’ve got to be that way. SECONDARY “He’s capable to do some things when he keeps the ball, Nearly all of the Bulldogs’ defensive backbut he is not hesitant and not field returns, providing the backside with reluctant to give the ball where stability and consistency. the option read requires him to Boling moves over to the free safety after give it. That in itself is going to Drew Nobles /// QB getting some snaps at linebacker in 2015, make a big difference.” while stalwarts Richardson (5-foot-9, 150) and Adams said rising senior Zach Weldon will also receive snaps at quarterback, Gibson (5-foot-9, 155) return to there hybrid outside adding another element to the scheme when he enters safety and cornerback spot, respectively. Adding more speed, Watson takes over the safery hybrid position the game. opposite Richardson and Buck will line up at the other corner for HHS. SKILL POSITIONS With multiple familiar faces, Adams said he hopes Much like last season, several guys will carry the the number of games the group collectively has under their belts will fix the miscues from a season ago. ball for the Dawgs in the rushing attack. “Again, they’re not elite athletes, but they are guys “We are by committee in the backfield. I tell them all the time, and I’m not trying to pick on them, but we hope we can count on that aren’t going to make they’re not elite athletes,” the coach said. “But they’re those same type of third-and-long yardage mistakes tough guys, hard-nosed guys. They run the ball down- that we made last year,” he said. hill, done a good job protecting the football.” Rising senior Blake Harris (5-foot-11, 180) steps into DEFENSIVE LINE the fullback position, along with junior Evan Headley, to lead the way for the stable of A-backs, featuring Experience paves the way for the Bulldogs’ oddsophomore Tristan Watson, Edgewood Academy transfer sophomore Hunter Bowdoin, junior Todd Buck and man front defensive line. Rising senior Jacob Nowak (6-foot-3, 245) remains senior Cody Gibson. Adams said the mentality of his skills players at his defensive end position, along with Weldon at the opposite end spot. matchup behind their big offensive line. On the inside, Adams said the coaching staff will “All those guys are grinders. They’re not guys that will break off a 60-yard run at any point in the game, rotate a few of its big offensive linemen at nose guard, but they are guys if there’s four yards there, they’re starting with Smith who received a lot of playing time going to get four.” When the pass is called, Weldon at tight end/H-back spot as well as returners Brady Richardson, Alex Boling, Dajon Reeves and newcomer Antonio Hall give the Dawgs options to air it out.

DEFENSE LINEBACKERS Anytime your leader tackler comes back, you feel good about the leadership on the defensive side of the ball. But Headley, as a junior at middle linebacker, surpasses the cliche quarterback of the defense mold. “Evan’s developed mentally at this point, he might be the best linebacker we’ve had on campus in a while. From a mental and physical stand-

Junior middle linebacker Evan Headley carries the banner into 2016 for a veteran Holtville defense looking to improve.

Bulldogs head coach Hunter Adams at nose last year. Newcomer Anderson will fit into the rotation, along with Hacker and Talley. “Cody (Clements) can play strongside defensive end or nose. We’ve got two, what we feel like are really good defensive ends in Zach Weldon and Jacob Nowak. We’re limiting their time on offense, so that way, they wont’ have to take every rep on offense and defense,” Adams said. “We feel these guys are strong points of the team up front.”

Zach Weldon and Peyton Johnson SPECIAL TEAMS Place kicking has the potential to be one of the most improved phases of the game for Holtville in 2016. After an experimental try at the game of football, HHS soccer standout Colton Autrey comes back to handle field goals and PATs. “Colton’s a three sport guy in the fall; he runs cross county, plays football with us and he plays fall travel soccer. He’s just now coming into his own as a kicker,” Adams said of the rising junior. “It was very experimental with him last year. All we knew is he had a cannon for a leg, he just never learned how to control it. He’s come on this summer.” Running out of the flexbone option offense, the Dawgs utilize the rubgy style punt and Nobles, the quarterback, will be tasked with punts. For kickoff and punt returns, Adams said he’ll put the safest guy back there, but ideally his team will use special teams as a way to extend drives and create momentum. “We don’t do a lot of punt return, we attack, we’re aggressive. We’re trying to block the punt, force a bad punt, flip field position in that regard.”

2016 GRIDIRON GUIDE

Elmore County

PANTHERS

AUGUST 2016

Team Specifics HEAD COACH STADIUM Norman Dean (12th year) Burt-Haynie Field 2015 RECORD (6-4)

AHSAA CLASS 4A /// REGION 3 2016 Schedule

AUGUST 19 Montgomery Acad. 26 at Alabama Chr. Acad. SEPTEMBER 2 at LEEDS* 9 at HANDLEY* 16 CHILDERSBURG*

23 MGY-Catholic (HC) 30 at MUNFORD* OCTOBER 7 DADEVILLE* 14 at HOLTVILLE* 21 TALLASSEE* *Region Game

2016 ROSTER 3. Ladarius Jenkins So. 4. D.J. Patrick So. 5. Deangelo Splunge So. 6. Taylor Henderson So. 7. Terrence Head Jr. 8. Jason Aguilar So. 9. Shakwan Bickley So. 10. Hayden Holton Fr. 11. Dalton Odom So. 12. Tyric Belyeu Sr. 13. Donovan Jones So. 14. Will Venable Sr. 15. Michael Johnson Sr. 16. Garrett Moseley So. 17. Dylan Weaver Fr. 18. Payne Watts So. 20. Sam Jones Fr. 21. Joshua Stockman Sr. 22. Joey Youngblood Sr. 24. Jay Kujaja Fr. 25. O’Neal Williams Fr. 27. Jakob Hodges Jr. 28. Lapatrick Brown Fr. 30. Sam Grigsby Sr. 31. Garrett Patillo Fr. 33. Winstron Scardina Jr. 34. Keshaan Bowman Sr. 39. Zefeniah Edwards Fr.

42. Trace Wall Sr. 44. Gage Oliver Fr. 45. Ean Carpenter Fr. 48. Ryan Orr Jr. 50. Bryson Caudle Fr. 51. Damian Scanlon Fr. 52. Devin Buckhannon So. 55. Jakobi Bickely Sr. 57. Gabe Brock Fr. 58. Hayden Bass So. 60. Easterling Carpenter Sr. 62. Tanner Bolt Fr. 63. Tanner Brooks Jr. 64. Victor Jones Sr. 65. Jacob Wallace Jr. 67. Parker Watts So. 68. Caleb McConaughy So. 70. Ryan Rush Sr. 71. Colby Jernigan So. 72. Sam Hamm So. 74. Collin Dean Fr. 75. Michael Guionnaud Sr. 77. Taylor Atkinson Fr. Keith Ballard N/A Chandler Falks Sr. Austin Fondren N/A Kaderus Henderson N/A Bryson Irvine N/A

Team BREAKDOWN OFFENSE QUARTERBACKS Eerily similar to the last time Elmore County made the playoffs, a quarterback will suit up for the Panthers this season coming off starting every game the year prior. Rising senior Will Venable returns to lead the offense that lost its top playmaker from 2015 in running back

Terrence Head /// WR, CB

Kell Floyd. Filling the void left by Floyd, along with missing six other offensive starters from last season, ECHS head football coach Norman Dean believes having Venable back will pay huge dividends. “That’s going to help a lot, having him back. A returning starter,” Dean said. “We haven’t had that at quarterback since 2011, the last time we made the playoffs. A returning quarterback that’s not hurt for the first game -- we’ve had that a couple of years.”

As a junior, Venable threw for 1,299 yards on 88-for180 passing (48.9 percent) with 18 touchdowns -- 12 of those to Floyd -- and 12 interceptions. With Floyd enrolled at Lenior Rhyne in Hickory, N.C., Venable is the Panthers’ leading returing rusher, picking up 233 yards on the ground with two scores. Junior Terrence Head takes snaps behind the senior quarterback, giving Elmore County a different dimension at the position with his 6-foot-3, 190-pound frame.

AUGUST 2016

SKILL POSITIONS When Head won’t be stepping in on relief at quarterback, he’ll definitely be catching a lot of passes from Venable. The towering junior ranked three on offense last year in receptions (11), receiving yards (226) and receiving touchdowns (3), but brings back the most experienced for a unit that nearly all untested. “He’s a go-to receiver returning from last year. Tyric D.J. Patrick /// RB, CB Belyeu, a senior playing football again this year, that’s going to help,” Dean said. “That’s two target you can throw to that I think will give us an opportunity to be successful.” In the Panther backfield, more inexperience as the older running backs listed on the depth chart are sophomores. But those young guys pack a heap of speed, in D.J. Patrick and Ladarius Jenkins, as well as some punch, in 6-foot-2, 200-pound fullback Donvan Jones. “We’ve got several guys, each one of them do something well. Instead of having that guy who we hand the ball to 20, 25 times, we’ve got three or four that maybe we’ll hand it to 10 or eight times apiece,” Dean said. “That gives us a little bit of a different dimension. Maybe as things get rolling, maybe make it’ll be a little bit harder on teams -- you can’t necessarily load up and stop this one guy.”

2016 GRIDIRON GUIDE

the secondary, and Bickley recorded 23 in limited action. Head has solidified the other corner position opposite of Patrick, and Dean said his size and athleticism will be a big help versus the aerial spread attacks of Munford and Dadeville during a crucial two-game region stretch this season at the end of September and beginnnig of October. Rising senior Trace Wall and Venable will likely split time at free safety, the coach said.

DEFENSIVE LINE If the defensive line for ECHS will have anything, it’ll have size with Bickley rooted at one of the end spots and Rush lined up beside him at tackle. But bigger than them, rising sophomore Sam Hamm, at a robust 314 pounds while standing only 5-foot-8, will pose quite a challenge for interior offensive linemen at nose guard The unit’s second leading tackler from last year, defensive tackle Victor Jones, returns for his senior campaign. The 5-foot-10, 240-pounder finished 2015 with 32 stops, including a sack. Carpenter will see time in the middle of the defensive front at nose guard while Guionnaud has been battling for playing time at defensive tackle.

OFFENSIVE LINE Elmore County’s offensive line never found cohesiveness in 2015 due to a bad case of the injury bug. While a few will be first-year starters, they’ve been training for it for two years. Rising seniors guard Easterling Carpenter, coming off shoulder surgery, and tackle Michael Guionnaud, who had a hurt knee and sophomore Parker Watts, who broke his leg during Senior linemen pair Jakobi Bickley and Ryan Rush will last year’s season opener, are all fully captain both lines of scrimmage for Elmore County. healthy as they stare down their first starts Aug. 19. Offensive line senior anchors Jakobi Bickley (6-foot-6, 240) at tackle and Ryan Rush (6-foot-3, 270) will benefit LINEBACKERS as much as the players coming back, as they look to give Venable time to throw and the running backs space to run. “Making plays.” That’s how Dean described the preSophomore guard Devin Buckhannon picked up a few season camp the linebacking corps is having so far. starts and will provide the Panther offensive front with Leading the charge is rising senior middle linebacker much-needed depth. Keshaan Bowman (5-foot-8, 200), who’s played off-andon the last two years for Elmore County. A newcomer to the football program, Michael Johnson, a homeschooled senior, has impressed the defensive DEFENSE coaching staff over the summer and fall practice. “He’s done a great job for us. We’re looking at him SECONDARY to make some plays for us on defense,” Dean said of Half of ECHS’s starting secondary from a year ago Johnson, who is allowed to play for any AHSAA school remains as Patrick at cornerback and Kwan Bickley, who he’s zoned for coming from to a new rule the association will slide into the strong safety spot left vacant by Floyd. implemented for the 2016-17 school year. At outside linebacker, Donovan Jones will start for Patrick raked in 36 tackles, good enough for second in

Panthers head coach Norman Dean the second straight season and will look to build off his 36 stops and two picks in 2015. Dean also lauded rising senior Chandler Falks, who missed all of last year with a knee injury.

SPECIAL TEAMS The Panthers boast the most consistent returning place kickers and punters in the area heading into 2016 in rising senior Joshua Stockman and Venable, respectively. Stockman was nearly money in the kicking department last year, going 31-for-31 on PATs, and made two of his three field goals attempts with a long of 32 yards. Meanwhile, Venable punted for more than 1,000 yards last season, pinning five inside the 20-yard line. To add a little competition, Johnson has been practicing punts during preseason camp and have impressed coaches there as well.

ECHS linemen

SPORTS EXTRA

2015 GRIDIRON GUIDE

AUGUST 2015

Central Alabama’s Most Comprehensive High School Football Coverage Begins August 20th

Don’t Miss It!!! 13 Schools in the Lake & River Region

SATURDAYS THE WETUMPKA HERALD Outlook The Tallassee Tribune The