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INSIDE TODAY

Area Calendar

Inside, Page 2

Fall football practices begin for ‘16-17 season

2016: The year we really needed none of the above

Sports, Page 11

Opinion, Page 4

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

Wetumpka, AL 36092

50¢

WEDNESDAY • AUGUST 3, 2016

THEWETUMPKAHERALD.COM

VOL. 118, NO.28

Monday council meeting focuses on projects

By COREY ARWOOD Staff Writer

The development of city projects was the primary focus of a nearly two-hour long city council meeting Monday where a number of city officials appeared to go on the defensive against a council member and his inquiry into the matter. Instead of regular agenda items, most of the meeting turned into a time to answer questions from councilmember Percy Gill regarding a number of projects undertaken by the city in District 2. A specialist from every department at question appeared to be on hand as Mayor Jerry Willis turned over one question after another to various city officials

associated with the projects. The public works director, Tex Grier, was the most utilized resource, along with City Attorney Regina Edwards. However County Engineer Richie Beyer was also present to take questions about the progress of about three road development projects, one of which near Gossom Switch was said to be completed while those in the areas of South Pine and Outhlacoochee streets were said to be awaiting contractors, who were expected to begin work around the third week in August, Beyer said. The second item, which Willis read from the line of questioning, was in regard to the completion date of the little league football field at the MLK Jr. Recreation

and Multicultural Center. It was the details about this project, and others related to the center, which drew the most discussion from council members and city officials and appeared to result in a full-fledged city defensive directed toward Gill’s questioning. A council member, Greg Jones, of District 5, even said he did not want to see in “the paper” that anyone was questioning the progress of the project after he had been in talks with Grier last Friday discussing the progress of the renovations. However, after the meeting, a District 2 resident did just that and raised his concerns over the rate at See COUNCIL • Page 3

Wetumpka student spends three weeks on European excursion

Staffing, super salary raise center of school board meeting By COREY ARWOOD Staff Writer

At the last Elmore County Board of Education meeting talks on issues regarding staffing issues, the superintendent’s salary and the hiring of a new CSFO were among the items given the most attention by board members. During the address made by Superintendent Andre Harrison, he said that the issues in Elmore County School System were part of a larger trend in resignations from newly hired staff members. “This is pervasive throughout the state, or widespread throughout the state, for some reason so many people are committing to jobs or for positions and they are resigning and going to other counties,” said Harrison. He said just 30 minutes See EDUCATION • Page 3

Today’s

Weather

92 73 High

Low

By COREY ARWOOD Staff Writer

William Carroll / The Herald

Elmore County Superintendent Dr. Andre Harrison (center) poses with graduating dogs from last year’s ceremony that are now in Elmore County Schools as part of Service Dogs Alabama.

SDA graduates new service animals By WILLIAM CARROLL Managing Editor

Service Dogs Alabama will be holding its graduation ceremony in Montgomery on Sunday and two area students will be receiving dogs as part of the ceremony. SDA is a 501(c)(3) organization, which provides trained service dogs free of charge to disabled children, veterans and first responders throughout Alabama. Dogs utilized in the program are trained for a variety of needs including seizure alert,

See EUROPE • Page 3

Red Hill event draws large crowd, raises funds for renovation By WILLIAM CARROLL Managing Editor

THURSDAY: HIGH 94 LOW 73

diabetic alert, stability, wheelchair assistance and for post traumatic stress disorder and Asperger’s Syndrome. According to information from SDA, facility dogs have been placed in Elmore County schools to reduce stress in classrooms as well as promote inclusion and participation. Elmore County Schools Superintendent Dr. Andre Harrison will actually be one of the speakers at Sunday’s event, which will be held at the Wilson Auditorium at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts at 2 p.m. See SERVICE • Page 5

A Wetumpka High School student will return to school with a lengthy list of stories to tell from a nearly threeweek long trip to Europe, where he visited five countries and a host of historic sites over the summer vacation. The 16-year-old WHS junior said his group landed in Paris and went out on a 19-day excursion across the continent visiting Switzerland, Austria, Italy, and Vatican City along their way. After a 10-hour flight, arriving in France, at roughly 6 a.m., the first day was kind of a blur of activity, Dalton White said. “It was different, I kind of didn’t know what was going on at the time,” said White. “As soon as we got off the plane we were gone for that day.” White was taking the trip as a youth ambassador with People to People International, of the Dwight Eisenhower Foundation. He said was there with a group of

A very large crowd greeted those in attendance Saturday night at the old Red Hill School building as part of a benefit concert to help raise funds for a new roof for the school building, which is now used as a community center. The Red Hill Community Club put the event on and Club President Paula Castleberry said

USPS 681-260

that the event generated $2,100, which will go toward the cost of the new roof. The concert event included music by Cecil Malone & Montgomery Junction, Cowboy, Bill and Company and The Kevin Adair Band. Previously, Castleberry said that the group had raised approximately $9,000 for the roof repair and that the estimated cost to replace the roof See RED HILL • Page 3

William Carroll / The Herald

A full house came to hear live country music Saturday at the Red Hill Community Club located at the old Red Hill School. Pictured is Cecil Malone and Montgomery Junction, one of the three acts on tap for the fundraiser.

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Page 2 • AUGUST 3, 2016

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

THE WETUMPKA HERALD

Area Calendar

August 1-4

iPad Distribution Days 5:30 p.m. at Southside Middle School Aug 1st- 5th grade Aug 2nd- 6th grade Aug 3rd- 7th grade Aug 4th- 8th grade $50 technology fee per student/yr.

August 3

SELF-DEFENSE CLASS: 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. YOUTH WRESTLING: 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. YOUTH SOCCER: 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. Games are usually played on Monday and Thursday nights. We usually have approximately 150 participants, which make up 8-10 teams.

August 4-7

SUMMER REVIVAL: Summer revival at 7 p.m. nightly August 7 11 a.m. only at First Missionary Baptist Church located at 5021 Airport Road Millbrook. Guest speaker will be Bro. Cliff Stever pastor from Yarbrough Street Baptist Church in Montgomery. Special singing nightly: Thursday – Christopher Gregory, Friday – The Dennis Family, Saturday – Calvary’s Call. Congregational music will be led nightly by Micky Conway and also on Sunday morning. Everyone is welcome. For more info, contact: Rex Weldon 558-6349.

August 8

OPEN HOUSE: Southside Middle School Open House OPEN HOUSE: Tallassee Elementary will hold open house for Kindergarten beginning at 11 a.m. and 11:20 a.m. First grade Open House will be at 12:20 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. Second grade open house begins at 1:40 p.m. and 2:20 p.m.. Third grade open house begins at 3 p.m. Fourth grade open house begins at 4:20 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. ORIENTATION: Freshman Orientation 6:00 p.m. at Tallassee High School. OPEN HOUSE: Tallassee High School Open House will be held from 12 -7 p.m.

August 13

TEACHER’S LUNCHEON: Beulah Baptist Church will hold the Annual Teachers Luncheon on August 13 at 1 p.m. In order to honor the Reeltown School Teachers and Aides and some other teachers from surrounding school systems.

August 16

TUESDAYS WITH KELLY: What You See, Is What You Get at the next Tuesdays with Kelly meeting when Jason Powell of Petals from the Past will give a Container Gardening Demonstration. Come to this “lunch and learn” event at noon on the third Tuesday of each month at The Kelly Fitzpatrick Memorial Gallery 408 South Main Street in Wetumpka, Alabama Bring a sack lunch, drinks and desserts provided. Free, Open to the Public, Fun, Music and Door Prizes.

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 6

GRAND OPENING: Talisi Florist will host the Grand Opening Celebration at 10:00a.m. 906 Gilmer Ave. GRAND OPENING: Ambience Massage and Wellness Grand Opening 12 p.m. at 13 South Ann Ave. CITY COUNCIL: Regular City Council Meeting 6:00p.m.

August 7

CHURCH ANNIVERSARY: The Wall Street AME Zion Church, 71 Zion Street of Tallassee, Alabama, will celebrate 136 years of ministry August 7. A homecoming program is being prepared to commemorate this joyous occasion. Members, former members, family, and friends are cordially invited to attend. The program will begin at 2:30 p.m. The speaker for the occasion will be LaBrian Stewart, the son of Dr. and Mrs. Keith Stewart. LaBrian is one of our own. He is an accomplished student athlete and professional educator and currently serves as Athletic Director and Head Football Coach at Northview High School, Dothan, Alabama. CONCERT: Lebanon Baptist Church in Titus will host Heartline in concert at 6 p.m.

ONGOING EVENTS POOL SEASON: The Tallassee Pool season for 2016 will end Saturday, July 30. Hours of operation will be Monday-Saturday from 1pm-5pm. Daily pass is $3 per day and individual pass is $45, family pass for up to 4 in same household is $60 and 5 or more $75 for season. First session of swim lessons for ages 4 and up (must be 4 by time of lesson) will begin June 13-June 24, Second session will be June 27 –July 8 (closed July 4) Third session will be July 11-22. Registration fee for Tiny Tots is $55 and Levels 1-6 will be $65. You may register at Recreation Department until Thursday, May 26 and after May 26 please register at pool. WATER AEROBICS: Water Aerobics classes will go thru July 28th. Classes will be each Tuesday and Thursday night at 7:00 pm at the City Pool. No need to register...just pay $3 each day you exercise. Lap swimming will also be available during that time if you do not want to participate in the aerobic class. SWIM LESSONS: First session of swim lessons for ages 4 and up (must be 4 by time of lesson) will run

Gospel Meeting August 14-19, 2016

Georgia Road Church of Christ Located on Hwy. 170 • Wetumpka, Alabama

Alan Watkins, Preacher Time of Services:

Sunday: 9AM, 10 AM & 1PM Noon Meal in the Annex: 11AM -1PM Monday - Friday: 7PM

Joe Bennett, Robin Ellison, Vicki Mullino, Sherry Thorne, Keith Nobles

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through June 24. Second session will be June 27 – July 8 (closed July 4) Third session will be July 11-22. Registration fee for Tiny Tots is $55 and Levels 1-6 will be $65. You may register at Recreation Department until Thursday, May 26 and after May 26 please register at pool. 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 sixty-five 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. TENNIS LESSONS: Grassroots Tennis Association will be offering (8) Weeks of Free Tennis Lessons this Summer throughout the rural and inner city underprivileged communities. SUMMER READING PROGRAM: Readers of all age will explore all thing sports and fitness this summer as Wetumpka Public Library presents “On Your Mark, Get Set, Read” during their summer library program. The 2016 Summer Library Program is open to young people, preschool, through young adult, with programs, prize drawings, story times and more. Preschool Story Time for infant through those entering kindergarten is on Tuesdays and Fridays at 10 a.m. this is a year round program. Summer program for those entering first through sixth grade will meet Tuesday afternoon from 2:00 – 3:00 p.m. at the Wetumpka Civic Center beginning June 14 – July 26. The Teen Program for those entering seventh and up will meet Thursday afternoons beginning June 16 – July 28 in the Library for movies. Registration begins May 2, 2016. You may download a registration form from our website: www.wetumpkalibrary.com or come in for a copy. For more information you may call 334-567-1308. Find us on Facebook. All programs are free. 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 224-850-9804 with questions. SANTUCK FLEA MARKET: First Saturday, MarchDecember, 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 334-567-7400. BLUEGRASS JAM: First Saturday, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Alabama River Region Arts Center, Wetumpka. All acoustic instruments welcome - guitar, 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 334578-9485 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 334-313-1646. 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

FREE County wide Cleanup Day SATURDAY, AUGUST 13, 2016 9AM - 1PM (or until truck is full)

T WO LOCATIONS:

•Old Highway Department Shop in Holtville •CEW&SA Redland Road Facility NO appliances, batteries, limbs longer than 4 ft. or 6 in. diameter, paints or thinners, oils and gases Cleanup is for residents only, no contractors QUESTIONS: (334) 514-5841, ext. 5006

Elmore County Commission

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THE WETUMPKA HERALD

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

AUGUST 3, 2016 • PAGE 3

Red Hill

Council

continued from page 1

which the Sports Complex was being developed compared to the MLK Center, and then expressed his desire for a city forum for upcoming elections. The city defended the timeline at every turn with a majority of the council members raising their objections and offering reasons as to why work on the center’s structures and main grounds had halted, while work on the sports complex of the adjoining property had, in comparison, been rapidly developed. At the center of the issue was the contract the city had entered into with the company hired out to oversee the various aspects of the project, as the city attorney said, to act as representatives for the city. Gill said one of the parties had breached the contract and wanted to know who was giving direction to the company as to what development should have priority. Also discussed at the council meeting, two council

members, Jones and Rebecca Thornton of District 3, were reelected to their seats with no opposition. And it was voted to approve the annual payment of $15,000 for Wetumpka entering into the Main Street Alabama program. Previous bids were withdrawn for the construction of a pedestrian bridge for the Riverwalk connecting the Wetumpka Sports Complex and Memorial Park, in what was described as ultimately a 3-mile long trail from the complex to Toulouse Road. Due to the length of the meeting and the complexity of issues expressed, a more thorough representation of the proceedings and issues surrounding the Martin Luther King Jr. Multicultural Center grounds and facilities is forthcoming in future editions of the Wetumpka Herald.

Education

continued from page 1

prior to the meeting they had received a notice of resignation. According to the personnel action sheet there were 12 resignations, the latest listed as taking effect August 1, the day of the meeting. The Senior Coordinator of Personnel Services with the school board, Celeste Tilley, said there were still five certified and nine support positions which needed to be filled, with the areas of math, science and special education as the main shortage areas. According the personnel sheet and the most recent list of resignations, math teachers from Wetumpka and Holtville high schools resigned in late July, as well as one special education teacher also from WHS. Tilley said these late resignation were also an issue. “It is terribly problematic for the school administrators when they think they have someone,” said Tilley. She said an email was sent to the human resources departments of school districts throughout the state asking if this was a problem shared by them all, and what they were doing about it. One board member, Patrycya Tucker, of district 2, asked about policies which she thought were in place requiring a waiting period for resignations, however Harrison said that the “45 day” rule was no longer in effect and that resignations could now take place up until the first day of school. Board chair Larry Teel, of District 5, half-jokingly said, “I recommend that we assign those a black dot, when they use us as a reference.”

To which Tilley responded that in her talks with various Alabama DOE HR representatives some had taken up a sort of “do not hire” list, however she assured that practice was not in place with the ECBOE. “We are still going to be hiring on the 15th because we’re still trying to find people,” Harrison said. He also spoke about their efforts in finding a replacement for the chief school financial officer, Jeffrey Middleton, which he said they hoped to have ready for the next meeting scheduled for Aug. 15. The administrative assistant to the superintendent explained in a phone call Tuesday that the process screening for applicants would begin some time next week by a panel made of up board members and a member of the public that would interview the candidates. And board member Joey Holley of District 7 suggested a motion to increase Harrison’s salary by two percent, which had come from recent decisions by the board over multiple meetings to raise the salary of those making over $75,000 by 4 percent, while the superintendent would be set aside for a 2 percent raise. Some heated discussion between Teel and Harrison arose regarding the issue, which had caused similar tensions among the board at a previous meeting when they were trying to decide how to implement recent state mandated AL BOE pay raises. And just before the meeting’s close, Harrison greeted Minnie Pringle as the new assistant principal at Wetumpka Elementary School.

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would be about $30,000. The building is not only important as a community center for the Red Hill Community but also has historical significance. “The school has hosted some famous people over the years,” Castleberry said. “Hank Williams (Sr.) and other Grand Ole Opry stars played there.” As part of the fundraising efforts, Castleberry said that the club would also be selling bricks for $125. Purchasers can place their names or the name of a loved one on the bricks and they will be placed around the veterans memorial at the front of the old Red Hill School building. The center is also available for rent at a cost of $175 and is available for different types of functions. “People rent the building for reunions, parties, weddings and receptions,” she said. “We really want people to use the building.” No date has been set for the actual renovation of the roof. Castleberry had previously stated that the group was still in the early stage of raising money for the structure and would continue until they reached their goal.

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Great day, my name is Emmitt Johnson, Jr. and I am your candidate for Mayor in the great City of Wetumpka. Since July 5th I have tried to be as visible and as vocal as possible in all ¿ve districts. Unfortunately, no matter how many “meet and greets” I do, or the number of people I get the opportunity to correspond with via social media, I certainly can’t reach every voter in the City. I believe if there is one person that feels they cannot support me because they don’t know me it’s my responsibility to do everything I can to meet that person. So, thank you to the Wetumpka Herald for another venue to tell my story and share my life. Thank you to my campaign committee and the supporters of Emmitt Johnson for Mayor that believes in the future of our City. Lastly, thanks to my greatest fan, my wife of 37 years and friend for more than 40 years, Deborah. Again, my goal is to give you weekly insights about me and answers to the numerous questions I’ve been asked as I have encounter residents of the City. To begin, I have lived in district four for twelve years. For the past two years my wife and I have worked tirelessly as the new owners of Wetumpka Preschool & Periscope Child Development Center, with our daughter Cecelia Hatcher and director Deborah Davis, to provide premier childcare and education for families in our surrounding area. Currently, I am the Education Director for SafetyNet Behavior Treatment Center in Montgomery and Dallas County where I coordinate the education and logistics services for neglected or delinquent children received from Alabama’s 67 counties. Prior to this, I worked in the Shelby & Elmore County Education Systems as a JROTC Instructor for seven years. I Pastor, Gateway Ministries, Millbrook, AL and chair several local, national, and overseas ministries that provide assistance and support to families and children in poverty, or that lack educational resources. I am a graduate student with a focus in Early Childhood Education, at Ashford University with a projected graduation date of April 2017. Finally, I am a retired US Army Sergeants Major (E-9). I served my country honorably for 27 years before retiring as the US Army Liaison and Operations Division Chief at Maxwell-Gunter Air Force Base Senior Non-Commissioned Of¿cer Enlisted Academy. My professional background gives you an overview of my leadership ability and versatility. My campaign motto, “Work together – Grow together” echoes my efforts to bring community residents to the forefront, while simultaneously working with City of¿cials and Councilpersons in the progressive growth of our City. Question: What do you have against the Mayor? I don’t have anything against Mayor Willis. In fact, I voted for him both terms, because I believed he could do what he said. My issues are solely centered on the equitable distribution of resources and visible signs of growth in Districts 1-5. My campaign isn’t about personality, but progress. Question: What are you going to do that our current Mayor isn’t already doing with economic growth? I will consider the growth of the City from a holistic and inclusive perspective. I will encourage councilpersons to establish a list of priorities for their districts that require City support for improvement or establishment. These lists will be consolidated and discussed with city of¿cials to prioritize for completion. Furthermore, I will work feverishly with each district councilperson to establish community associations and leaders that represent their neighborhoods as advocates to and for councilpersons. Question: Have you attended City Council meetings? I have not attended City Council meetings during this term. There is no reason other than the disappointment I witness during the ¿rst term of our Mayor from a then aggressive council. To this end, I have competent representatives from our Homeowners Association and in our District Councilman that represents my community needs and desires. Question: Will you continue to work if you are elected? When I am elected to Mayor I will be resigning from my position as Education Director with SafetyNet BTC to dedicate my efforts to the City of Wetumpka. Please note that I have promised my CEO that I will assist him in hiring my replacement. Question: What will you do about the drainage problems behind homes? I have heard the problems of incomplete drainage areas in the City and will look at those areas with the Councilperson responsible for that district and formulate a plan with city managers to rectify the problem. Question: What will you do about the cost of water for City residents? I don’t know that there is an answer to this problem without the introduction of new industry in the City. Thus, economic growth is the number one priority to decrease utility cost. Question: Do you believe that there is a problem with cultural diversity in key positions in the City? I believe that people are hired to do a job based on ability and not because of color or personal preference. State and Federal laws govern fair hiring practices and dismissals. I will ensure every employee meets the quali¿cations outline in their job description and are evaluated based on established guidance. Question: Why should I vote for you? I have a track record of being fair, equitable and visible. I have no hidden agenda and understand that bridge building is necessary for any platform to be successful. Question: What are your major concerns? My platform for Mayor introduces my concerns for the City. Economic development is the core of growth. Industry that complements our diverse population, coupled with mainstream business, distinctive restaurants, and cultural events and festivals that bring tourism to our unique City. Growth frightens people, which is why law enforcement and safety are paramount. Con¿dence is gained by residents and business owners when there are adequate patrols and community partnerships with our police department. I want people understand the essentiality of law enforcers and the necessity of ¿rst responders. Education and the systems that foster the programs are vital to the growth of a City. Residence want to know their children are a part of a competitive education system and programs that support young adults need for development and to compete in a global economy. Simultaneously, adult and senior programs that introduce them to money management, technology, personal and family growth, parenting, literacy, and available support programs are absolutely necessary. Finally, I’d like to see community stability for every residence. The stability of a community depends on those physical, economic or social features of a neighborhood that are associated with the preservation and potential increase in the value of a property-owner’s investment in a neighborhood. When our communities are stable, so is our City. I believe these four tenets are the bedrock for focused and sustained growth. I’d like to have your vote on August 23rd to become the new Mayor of Wetumpka. If we “Work together” we can “Grow together.” For contact & speaking arrangements: Kenya Dillard (334) 954-8469, Susan Ezelle (334) 451-5058 or email us at: emmittjohnsonformayor@gmail.com Follow us on facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/EJohnsonforMayor/?ref=aymt_homepage_panel To donate online at: http://ejohnsonformayor.weebly.com/

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 3, 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.

When bad golf is good

ast week, I played in the Steve Bartkowski – Will Herring Youth for Christ Golf Tournament at the Auburn University Club. To put it mildly, my golf game is lacking. I am to golf what Hillary Clinton is to honesty, to what Donald Trump is to humility, and what Nick Saban is to height. I’m not very good, but I do enjoy playing. So many lessons can be learned on the links. When the young lady at registration asked what my handicap was, I replied with, “Well, I stutter.” Stuttering during a round of golf poses its own set of unique challenges. For example, I sometimes have trouble getting out F-words. Hey, it’s not what you’re thinking. When I accidentally hit a ball in the direction of other people, I have trouble yelling the word “fore.” By the time I get it out, the damage has been done. When I was a kid, Steve Bartkowski was my favorite quarterback. I loved Joe Montana and Dan Marino, but since he played for the Atlanta Falcons, he was my favorite. The Falcons weren’t very good, but they were our closest team, and they had running back William Andrews from Auburn. So, just imagine how thrilled I was to be placed on the team with him. Rounding out our foursome in the scramble was Will Herring and Dixon Tharin. Will is an Opelika boy who had a great career at Auburn, followed by a solid seven or so years in the NFL. Tharin is a new friend, and we hit it off very well. He saved us a few times, granted he got to hit from the “old man” tee box. I’m just ribbing him. He played more consistent than any of us. We had a great time but didn’t play very well. I played worse than I usually play, which is saying a lot. Steve didn’t play very well, per his

standards. The man has hit 13 holes in one for crying out loud. It sometimes take me 13 shots on one hole. When people are around me for any length of time, they start to stutter. Perhaps my golf game rubbed off on Jody Fuller him a bit, too. There are times during the course of a round of 18 when I hit an amazing shot, which is all it takes for me to want to come back and play again. We had played 13 or 14 holes and I still had yet to hit that shot. I was feeling down, because I wasn’t helping my team. At one point, the ball was over on the fringe. It wasn’t buried very deep, but it was not the kind of shot I ever excelled at. The other guys had gone before me without a lot of success, so it was up to me. I looked up at Will and very honestly said, “Man, I don’t know why I’m even attempting this shot." I did anyway. I swung away, and it was my shot— my shot of the day. It was high and long and sailed through the air beautifully, landing just a few feet from the cup. We may have used my ball one other time, but that was the shot, and it almost never happened, because I doubted myself. If we don’t believe in ourselves, then how can we expect others to? Lesson learned. It was a great day in every way, but most of all, because it gave back to East Alabama Youth for Christ, which gives back so much to our community and its future.

2016: the year we really need none of the above

lection time is upon us. Local elections will of course kick into gear in late August while the presidential election is slated for November. Last week completed the national convention season and left us with two candidates who have higher undesirable ratings than they will have voters in the fall. Republican Donald Trump and Democrat Hillary Clinton are perhaps the lowest rated major party candidates based on favorability that we have ever had in this country. Talk to some Democrats and they refuse to support Clinton, talk to Republicans and they are ashamed of Trump. It is pretty bad when people in your own party can’t support you. Clinton is something of a known commodity, having been in politics for the last several decades. She made a failed bid for president eight years ago, losing to eventual winner Barack Obama. Trump is also a known commodity, but for different reasons. He has been floating and contemplating a presidential run for many years and finally this season put all of his eggs in the election basket. Clinton has a significant back history, her recent service as Secretary of State creating fodder for a number of federal investiga-

WILLIAM CARROLL Managing Editor

tions and, while no charges have stuck, at least the presumption of guilt on a variety of issues. Voters don’t really trust her and her honesty has been questioned on a number of occasions. Trump is in his first foray into politics. Some have lauded him as being a man who “tells it like it is,” but recent comments show him to be actually quite ignorant on how to effectively run a campaign. If Clinton is disliked due to her manipulations and allegations of dishonesty, Trump is disliked for what is effectively abject stupidity. It is probably clear I am not a fan of either candidate. I don’t necessarily like Clinton and I think Trump is a blithering idiot (guess you don’t have to be smart to have money). Many people I know are in the same conundrum. They don’t really like either candidate and so they will either hold their nose and vote for one of the two, or they will vote for a third party candidate.

This is one of those times I wish they had a “none of the above” type option. If we had a none of the above option we could vote our true conscience and not have to pick one or the other candidates. The way I see it, if none of the above gets the most electoral votes, then we should have a revote, with completely different candidates the second time around. Basically, the none of the above vote would say that we are rejecting the candidates presented and that the parties have to go back to the drawing board and start over. It actually would be quite useful, not only in presidential elections, but in local elections. Don’t like either candidate for mayor or city council? Don’t vote for either. Tell the candidates you are rejecting them. Such a vote could act to restrict that person from running again, at least in this election cycle, and would send a clear message that the voters are still in control of the outcome. Why should we continue to hold our nose and pick the lesser of two evils. I say it is past time to say no to all and demand they start over. Maybe our country would be better in the process. Carroll is the managing editor of this newspaper.

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.

A rundown of the state’s soap opera political scene

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

ow that the national conventions are over and we have had a glimpse of what to expect in the upcoming fall presidential contest, let us turn our attention back to our good ole state politics. Even though we do not have any good state races this year, it does not mean that we have not had our share of political happenings. We have been so active that we have garnered national publicity. Let us reminisce and get you caught up on our soap opera, As the World Turns in Alabama Politics. As the year began we knew that the Mike Hubbard corruption trial would finally unfold. It ended in a convincing conviction and the removal of the once powerful speaker from office and legislative leadership. We all knew of good old Robert Bentley’s illicit relationship with his political advisor Rebekah Caldwell Mason but it seemed that it had maybe settled down. However, his fired former friend, Spencer Collier, came after Bentley and his girlfriend with a vengeance. There is an old saying that hell hath no fury like a woman scorned. Well you can add another adage that could be applied to best male friends scorned. Bentley and Collier were best buddies while in the legislature. Most of Bentley’s cabinet has come from guys that served with him in the House of Representatives. Spencer Collier was a State Trooper by profession. He cherished the post of heading ALEA. Therefore, when Bentley fired him he turned on his doctor/governor buddy. He has filed suit and spilled the beans on all of the sordid details of Bentley’s affair. It does not appear to me that

STEVE FLOWERS Guest Columnist

Collier has much of a case. Cabinet members serve at the pleasure of the governor and the governor can remove them for any reason. It is not a bureaucratic merit system position. Regardless, the damage has been done to Bentley and Mason. Our homespun, pious governor has been relegated to a national punchline. He continues to be fodder for late night talk shows and cartoonists. He has rendered himself totally irrelevant. Therefore, his legacy will more than likely be the salacious tapes that Collier released. We probably have not heard the last of this story. All of the media hype has spurred the interest of federal investigators. The third saga of the year has been the removal of Chief Justice Roy Moore from his high tribunal office by the State Judicial Inquiry Commission. This commission has set a hearing for next week, Aug. 8, to decide the fate of our renowned religious judge. This vague Judicial Inquiry Commission brought six charges of misconduct against Moore, which triggered his automatic suspension on May 6. The charges stemmed from Moore’s Jan. 6 order telling probate judges they had a ministerial duty not to issue same sex marriage licenses. This came after the U.S. Supreme Court had ruled such bans were unconstitutional. The Commission said that Moore’s directive placed all 68 probate judges in an untenable

position and forced them to violate the state’s cannon of ethics. Moore contends that his marriage order was simply advice and they did not have to follow his advice. Most of them did ignore him. They had sense enough to know that the U.S. Supreme Court’s opinion trumps a state court judge’s opinion. Moore also argues that the Commission has no power over administrative orders. I tend to concur with Moore. It appears to me that this group has overstepped their bounds. My perception of this group’s mission is to police true misconduct by judges like egregious acts of illegality and immorality. Moore has not done anything illegal or immoral, he just simply has a different opinion than the U.S. Supreme Court on the issue of gay marriage. His opinion is also the same as the vast majority of Alabamians. This group ousted Moore over complaints brought by the Southern Poverty Law Center and ACLU. Folks, in the Heart of Dixie, you could not find two better boogeymen to run against. Moore has got the ACLU, SPLC and the liberal same sex marriage-mandating U.S. Supreme Court to run against for governor. George Wallace would have loved that scenario. He always said find me a good boogeyman to run against. They may be electing Moore governor. See you next week. Steve Flowers is Alabama’s leading political columnist. His weekly column appears in over 60 Alabama newspapers. He served 16 years in the state legislature. Steve may be reached at www. steveflowers.us.

THE WETUMPKA HERALD

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

Europe

AUGUST 3, 2016 • Page 5

continued from page 1

Submitted / The Herald

Wetumpka High School student Dalton White (right) with other students as part of a three week educational experience in Europe. The students are pictured here in front of the Pisa Baptistry of St. John.

students, some of which were from close to home, Gulf Shores and Mobile. They primarily traveled by bus and occasionally by train from country to country with guided tours, White said, for an in-depth picture of the cities they passed through. He said they stayed in France around four days, Austria for about the same, while stopping for only a day in Switzerland and spending most of their time, White said, in Italy. While in Austria he said he lived with a family of six. “That was fantastic, they’re very nice people we stayed in their home for like 3 days and we went to school with the children,” White said. Out of the whole trip, White said Austria was one of his favorite places and peoples he encountered, describing them as warm, inviting and friendly. “They were talkative,” White said, however the French, he concluded, would not make eye contact and White said he thought that was because the French knew they were Americans. “They could tell,” White said. Of the biggest cultural differences he said it was not so much a difference of American versus European society, but it was the distinctions between the ways of life in the South that stood in such contrast to White. “Down here you’ll wave and nod at somebody, over there you worry about where you’re going,” White said.

Service

He said his family was a mixture of jealous and cautious about the trip, given recent terroristic events occurring around that time, and in France particularly. White explained the atmosphere as “kind of tense,” and mentioned a scene from an airport in Rome where he said he saw guards on patrol with submachine guns. However, he said some of the most interesting stops were in Rome where they saw the Colosseum and catacombs. Ultimately White said of the trip that he “met some really cool people,” and “made lasting friendships.” “(I) saw some things I’d never be able to see without that organization,” White said.

continued from page 1

According to statistics provided by SDA, the use of a trained school dog improves academic performance, results in a significant reduction of disciplinary issues and improves overall classroom environment and participation. SDA Board Member Alan Hackel said that the group has placed over 60 dogs recently and that dogs are specifically trained based upon need. “These dogs make an enormous difference,” Hackel said. “My role, in addition to being a board member, is to help train the kids once the dogs are trained.” Hackel explained that it takes around two years to train an individual animal and that kids need to be trained on how to read the signs the animal gives. The dogs are actually trained at a prison facility in Florida and Hackel said the cost to train each dog is around $15,000 to $20,000. Hackel said that there are at least 10 dogs currently in the Elmore County school

system. SDA Executive Director Frances McGowin said that in this year’s graduating class there will be two additional dogs going to students in Elmore County. Tessa, a golden retriever will be going with a student attending Stanhope Elmore High School. Tessa is trained for intervention and PTSD related issues. Also, Pierce, a black Labrador is trained as a diabetic alert dog and will be going with a student attending Holtville High School. She said there are also six dog graduates who will be going to Elmore County schools. Hackel said that dogs sent with diabetics are trained to alert to low and high blood sugar changes based upon odors released during such changes. “These dogs can do some pretty amazing things,” he said.

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PAGE 6 • AUGUST 3, 2016

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

THE WETUMPKA HERALD

Welcome Back To School!

It’s time to go back to school! After summer vacation, students return to school every year in August and September. This time of year is commonly referred to as “back to school” time. While you may feel nervous about the new school year, it is important to UHPHPEHU WKDW HYHU\RQH IHHOV D OLWWOH VFDUHG RQ WKH ¿UVW GD\ RI VFKRRO :KHQ \RX VHH \RXU ROG IULHQGV DQG PHHW \RXU QHZ WHDFKHUV \RX ZLOO IHHO EHWWHU 2QH ZD\ WR ¿JKW WKH MLWWHUV LV WR EH SUHSDUHG +DYH \RXU VFKRRO VXSSOLHV UHDG\ DQG SDFNHG *HW \RXU IDYRULWH RXW¿W ready the night before. Be sure to give yourself plenty of time to eat a healthy breakfast before leaving for school or catching the bus. If you see students new to the school on the ¿UVW GD\ EH NLQG DQG FRXUWHRXV WR WKHP 7KH\ PD\ QHHG \RXU KHOS LQ ¿QGLQJ WKHLU FODVV Whether you are starting elementary school, middle school, high school, or college, the ¿UVW GD\ LV IXQ DQG H[FLWLQJ *RRG /XFN

Practice Back 2 School Word Find Math You will need two different colored pencils for this activity. Read the equations to the right. On a separate sheet of paper, calculate what the answer would be for each sign given. Color the sign and then the correct answer with the same color. Use the other color for the second sign given. 1.

13 2.

[

10 3.

Arithmetic, Football Team, Geography, Grades, Gym, History, Homeroom, /XQFKURRP 2I¿FH Principal, Quiz, Reading, Report Card, School, Student, Teacher, Test, Writing

3 -

9 2

+ 1

[

School Crossword Across Clues: 3. Gets your pencil ready. 6. Keep notes in this. 7. Draw on this. 9. Can be erased. 10. Color with these. Down Clues: 1. Solves math problems. 2. You read this. 3. You can cut with these. 4. Takes away pencil. 5. Keep paper in this. 7. Write with this tool. 8. Paste things together with this.

Crossword Ans: Across-3)sharpener 6)notebook 7)paper 9)pencil 10)crayons Down-1) FDOFXODWRU WH[WERRN VFLVVRUV HUDVHU folder 7)pen 8)glue Ans:1.(s)24(d)9, 2.(a)7(m)10, 3.(s)1(a)17, 4.(m)98(d)2,

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TheWetumpkaHerald.com

AUGUST 3, 2016 • Page 7

Elmore County farmer competes in state contest STAFF REPORT TPI Staff

The Alabama Farmers Federation’s Young Farmers proved the future of agriculture is in good hands as they competed in statewide events at the 44th Commodity Producers Conference in Mobile July 30. Elmore County’s own Jonathan Edgar participated in the Discussion Meet contest. In the Port City, the Outstanding Young Farm Family (OYFF) was announced, and young farmers competed in the Excellence in Agriculture and Discussion Meet contests. This year’s OYFF was Madison County’s Stewart and Kasey McGill and daughters Allie, 4, Reece, 2, and Peyton, 3 months. The McGills grow cotton, corn and soybeans and help manage Kasey’s family’s agritourism operation, Cotton Pickin’ Pumpkins, a division of Tate Farms in Meridianville. The McGills won a prize package worth more than $60,000, including a new General Motors pickup truck from Alfa Insurance, a John Deere 825i Gator from Alabama Ag Credit and Alabama Farm Credit and use of a John Deere tractor by John Deere and local John Deere dealers. OYFF runners-up were Lance and Stephanie Miller of Snead in Blount County and their children Reed, 4, and Jade, 1; and John and Hannah Bevel of Albertville in Marshall County and their daughter Madalyn, 3. The runners-up received $500 courtesy of Alabama Ag Credit and Alabama Farm Credit. The Federation presented each finalist a Big Green Egg cooker. OYFF contestants must receive more than 50 percent of their income from production agriculture. Finalists were announced at the Young Farmers Conference in February. Ben and Heather Maples of Elkmont in Limestone County beat out 10 competitors in the Excellence in Agriculture contest. As the winner, the Maples will receive a John Deere zero-turn mower sponsored by Dow AgroSciences and a computer package from CCS/Valcom Wireless. Excellence in Agriculture contestants are young people in agriculture earning no more than half their income from production agriculture. The competition included an application, 15-minute presentation and 10-minute question-and-answer session. Excellence in Agriculture first runners-up were Brandon and Angela Sewell of Southside in Etowah County, and second runner-up was Andrew Brock of Douglas in Marshall County.

Submitted / The Herald

Elmore County’s Jonathan Edgar, left, joined peers from across Alabama to compete in State Young Farmers events July 30 at the Alabama Farmers Federation’s 44th Commodity Producers Conference in Mobile. Edgar participated in the Discussion Meet contest. He is pictured with Federation President Jimmy Parnell.

Four finalists were named in the Federation’s Discussion Meet contest, designed to simulate a committee meeting where active participation is expected. Eighteen contestants discussed pre-selected agricultural topics through several rounds of competition. Finalists are Lauren Cline of Opelika in Lee County, Jerry Allen Newby of Athens in Limestone County, Hunter McBrayer of Boaz in Marshall County and Sidney Phelps of Dadeville in Tallapoosa County. Discussion Meet finalists will compete in December at the Federation’s annual meeting in Montgomery for the top prize of a 4-wheeler sponsored by First South Farm Credit. Excellence in Agriculture runners-up and Discussion Meet finalists also received Big Green Egg cookers from the Federation. Young Farmers contest winners will represent Alabama at the American Farm Bureau Federation annual meeting and contests in January in Phoenix, Arizona. The Alabama Farmers Federation is the state’s largest farm organization with more than 350,000 members and affiliates in all 67 counties.

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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

THE WETUMPKA HERALD

First Presbyterian Presbyterian Church Church

Harmony United Methodist Church 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.

Wallsboro United Wallsboro United Methodist Church Methodist Church

Mountain View Baptist Baptist Church Church

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

Rev. Ryan Rev. Ryan Johnson Johnson Pastor

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

Pastor Rickey Luster,

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

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.

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.

Christ-centered Church.

NURSERY PROVIDED PROVIDED FOR NURSERY FOR ALL SERVICES SERVICES ALL

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.

DID YOU KNOW?

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

According to a 2013 Pulse Survey, Tallapoosa Publishers reaches at least 86% of all Tallapoosa County.

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Wags ‘N Whiskers auction raises more than $15,000 BY REA CORD Executive Director HSEC

f you were part of our huge crowd Friday night, then you can attest to what a wonderful turnout we had and how a fun time was had by all at our 11th Annual Wags & Whiskers Auction! Because of all who came out, all who donated items & all who helped pull it all together, YOU raised over $15,000 to help our shelter and all the pets we care for every day! Isn’t that just fantastic! Our Wags & Whiskers Auction is one of our most critical annual fund-raising events so it always heartens us to see such a wonderful turnout of supporters. For the attendees this is just one great night of fun, but for so many of our Board Members &

Volunteers, this is a year-long labor of love. We do want to share one very special thanks to Sandy Faulk who has been the Chair of our Auction Committee for six straight years and who has always gone far beyond and above to make sure it runs like clockwork – thank you so very much Sandy! And I know Sandy asks that everyone also thank ALL those who worked before, during and after the auction to ensure its success. We were thrilled to see so many of our supporters, as well as so many new faces to our Auction. We always hope that the word gets out about our event as more attendees means more bidding and more revenue raised for our pets. Of course, we couldn’t even host this event if not for the support of those who donate items directly to our Auction

HUMANE SOCIETY OF ELMORE COUNTY NEWS and to our Thrift Store and for those who asked – yes, we are already taking donations for next year’s auction! Many thanks to the crew from Wind Creek Wetumpka for providing such a bounty of yummy hors d’oerves. Local florists Austin’s Flowers & Gifts and Jenilyn’s Creations deserve huge kudos for their gorgeous floral arrangements that add so much beauty to our event. DJ Ziggy from PowerSounds USA kept the bidding energy high throughout the evening and we so appreciate how he

works the crowd and helps showcase individual auction items. And a final thanks to the Auctioneers Scott & Michelle Williams and the crew from High as the Sky Auction Company as they really ratchet up the energy during our Live Auction segment, ensuring we get the most out of every item! The staff at the Wetumpka Civic Center again made sure the facility was perfect for our event and we greatly appreciate their hard work and support. Final thanks to Storage Binz for having the perfect storage facility to keep our auction items in tip top shape. Our Board works hard to make this event better year after year and if you have any thoughts or input about our Auction, please email them to hselco@bellsouth.net and we

will make sure to pass them to our Auction Committee. We couldn’t be successful without our supporters and are grateful to all who help us in so many ways. Thank you EVERYONE for making our Auction so successful that we can put the $15,000 raised to hard work for all the pets that come through our doors day in and day out. We are never content to relax for long and our next big event comes up on Sunday, 18 September as we have an afternoon of fun at Bark in the Park 2016, at Fort Toulouse in Wetumpka. To keep up with our activities check out the calendar on our website at www.elmorehumane.org or on our Facebook page – Humane Society of Elmore County!

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The Wetumpka Herald

SPORTS

THE WETUMPKA HERALD

ASWA Preseason poll Class 7A 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 Class 6A 1. Spanish Fort (29) (15-0) <ws>357 2. Clay-Chalkville (1) (14-1) <ws>264 3. Blount (10-2) <ws>217 4. Hillcrest-Tuscaloosa (8-4) <ws>170 5. Opelika (12-1) <ws>162 6. Oxford (3-7) <ws>145 7. Park Crossing (8-3) <ws>103 8. Saraland (8-3) <ws>76 9. Bessemer City (8-5) <ws>54 10. Benjamin Russell (12-2) <ws>38 Class 5A 1. St. Paul’s (29) (132) 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 (111) 75 8. Eufaula (9-3) 70 9. Brooks (11-2, 4A) 52 10. Guntersville (121) 41 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) (132) 136 8. Cherokee Co. (7-5) 69 9. North Jackson (7-5) 54 10. Thomasville (6-5) 39

Class 3A 1. Piedmont (28) (141) 354 2. Gordo (2) (12-1) 266 3. T.R. Miller (10-3) 190 4. Bayside Acad. (114) 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 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 Class 1A 1. Maplesville (19) (13-1) 298 2. Cedar Bluff (3) (132) 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

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TheWetumpkaHerald.com

AUGUST 3, 2016 • Page 11

HIT THE LIGHTS

Edgewood takes in Blue Ribbon, Chairman’s Awards By CORY DIAZ Sports Editor

Cory Diaz / The Herald

The wait is over! Football season returns as area schools held their first fall football practice Monday with opening kickoff 18 days away. Wetumpka Herald sports editor Cory Diaz made annual “Tour of Elmore County” trek Monday, stopping first at Stanhope Elmore, then onto Elmore County High, Wetumpka, Holtville and rounding out the trip at Edgewood Academy. Pictured below, Holtville new starting quarterback Drew Nobles hands the ball off during Monday’s practice at HHS. Above, Wetumpka senior defensive lineman Trent Holley (middle) fights two blocks during the Indians’ first fall practice Monday at WHS. See Page 12 for more photos of the first day of practice, as well as our Facebook Page!

AISA 1. Bessemer Acad. (28) (13-0) 354 2. Escambia Acad. (7-5) 249 3. Autauga Acad. (7-5) 226 4. Abbeville Chr. (121) 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. (102) 62 10. Jackson Acad. (7-5) 50

Nearly a week after earning the AISA President’s Award, Edgewood Academy rounded out the scholastic award season with the Chairman’s Award as well as being named the one of the 2015-16 Blue Ribbon Schools. “This is the first time we’ve won the Blue Ribbon School Award,” EA headmaster Clint Welch said Tuesday. “We’ve won the Chairman’s Award several years in a row now. But I think this shows our dedication to academics and it shows our dedication to athletics. “We hadn’t won the President’s Award in a long time. We have a lot to be proud of and I think this says that we excel in every area of our school.” The AISA Blue Ribbon Award program is sponsored by the AISA to recognize member schools with outstanding educational programs. In order to be considered for the AISA Blue Ribbon Award, a school must complete a rigorous application process and exemplify excellence in scholastic achievement, professional learning, student involvement and community interaction. These schools have demonstrated a high level of excellence in their academic and student programs and are very worthy recipients of the AISA Blue Ribbon Award. The criteria for winning the Chairman’s Award includes achievement in all areas of the school’s athletic programs: state champions in all sports, All-Star Selection, scholarship, participation in different sports, finishing in the top four in State Play-offs, sportsmanship, student-athlete award, and no eligibility problems. The AISA has been steadfast in its efforts since 1970 to maintain an organization of independently operated non-public schools that are rich in diversity, committed to academic excellence, and deeply concerned about the growth and development of students. The association’s goal is to provide quality educational services and programs that ultimately serve to enrich the educational experiences of the students within its member schools.

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PAINT & BODY REPAIR

PAGE 12 • AUGUST 3, 2016

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

THE WETUMPKA HERALD

FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS Local teams suit up for the upcoming football season on the first day of practice Monday.

Top left, HHS head football coach Hunter Adams pumps his players up at practice. Middle, Holtville’s Zach Weldon and Peyton Johnson pursue a ball carrier during Monday’s practice and new Edgewood Academy head football coach Eric Folmar, top right, addresses his players at the end of practice. Center, Wildcats oﬀensive backfield work through drills Monday at practice. Middle right, Stanhope Elmore defensive linemen work through footwork drills at Monday’s practice and left, new Stanhope Elmore head football coach Mike Dean talks with his players. Bottom left, Indian junior quarterback DeAndre Ezell throws a pass during drills and Indian head football coach Tim Perry directs his oﬀense during Monday’s practice. Bottom right, Wetumpka senior wide receiver Akwasi Bryant (41) goes up for a pass.

Photos by Cory Diaz