May 19, 2016 Eclectic Observer

Brown recaps illustrious career.

Community stands behind its schools.

Looking for something? Check this week’s classifieds.

Eclectic Observer Page 4

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The

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THURSDAY • MAY 19, 2016

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

Vol. 27, No. 20

Town cleanup event set for Saturday By COREY ARWOOD Staff Writer

A clean up day for the town will be held Saturday as part of what Mayor Gary Davenport called the town’s annual spring-cleaning efforts, and in coordination with the county-sponsored, “FREE Shred Day” event (FREE Countywide

Shred Day Event). The recycling center is scheduled to be open from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., and large dumpsters will be placed near the library, Davenport said, for residents to clean out their houses and yards in an effort to altogether, “Clean the town up, make it look nice,” Davenport said. He said several people would also be

working to pick up trash throughout the community as well. The recycling center would accept smaller electronic appliances like computers or microwaves, along with standard recyclable materials like cardboard, plastic and glass bottles, Davenport said. But as for larger items, such as refrigerators or stoves, he said residents could

Barking dogs lead man to $5,000 reward in burglaries

place them in the dumpsters, which would later be removed by the trash disposal, collection and recycling company, Advanced Disposal. The town itself recycles cardboard, scrap metal and aluminum and generates revenue from the operation, but the electronics, plastics and glass are taken See CLEANUP • Page 3

Elmore County board recognizes teachers of the year

Suspects in string of Lake Martin burglaries apprehended

Broom, Montgomery named elementary & secondary teacher of the year for district

By DAVID GRANGER Staff Writer

By WILLIAM CARROLL Managing Editor

Johnny Peterson should feed his dogs well tonight. It was the barking of those dogs that woke Peterson at his Wicker Point Road home one night in October 2014. He checked for what was rousing the dogs’ interest and spotted a vehicle parked approximately 50 yards up the hill at the end of his driveway. Peterson armed himself with a .22 and drove up the hill in his truck to confront the stranger. “I asked him what he was doing and he said he had family members that lived on the road and was waiting on somebody to See REWARD • Page 3

Today’s

Weather

William Carroll / The Observer

Jennifer Meadows shows Jackson Dean the proper and safe way to use shop tools. This is Meadows’ final year at ECHS after a ten year stay.

Growing apart ECHS says goodbye to first female FFA advisor

By CARMEN RODGERS Staff Writer

While Jennifer Meadows has been teaching for over 25 years, this year marked her tenth year at Elmore County High School. This year also marks her final year teaching at the high school. The well-known and admired teacher is

leaving her position so that she can spend more time with her family, especially her mother. Meadows landed in Eclectic after moving from the Orlando, Florida area. Her family lived in Louisiana and her husband’s family was from Orlando and Eclectic, Alabama was about the half-waypoint See FAREWELL • Page 3

By COREY ARWOOD Staff Writer

High

A nonprofit river conservation group has begun its weekly water quality testing of the Coosa River, a free service it performs yearly for the swimmers, boaters and fishermen of the Coosa and any of its lakes. So far the Coosa Riverkeeper has released the results from two data sets worth of water quality tests, both showing the water at its Wetumpka testing locations to be safe for swimming and general recreational use. Frank Chitwood, a staff “riverkeeper,” with the organization, said because the program is mostly focused on recreational swim safety they mainly look at bacteria, specifically E. Coli, and how much of it is in the water. He said high levels of E. Coli could indicate the presence of possible human sewage or waste in the area. However, Chitwood said there are a variety of sources from which the bacteria could find its way into the waterways. See RIVER • Page 2

FRIDAY: HIGH 78 LOW 64

William Carroll / The Observer

Jay Collier of Collier Ford (left) and Wes Bonner of Riverside Chevrolet (right) provide brand new loaner cars to Holtville Elementary School teacher Jeannie Broom (center left) and Millbrook Middle School teacher Veronica Montgomery (center right).

‘Riverkeepers’ begin weekly testing of Coosa

84 65 Low

Last Friday, 19 area teachers were recognized by their respective schools as teachers of the year. Two teachers, Holtville Elementary School teacher Jeannie Broom and Millbrook Middle School teacher Veronica Montgomery were awarded elementary and secondary teacher of the year awards for the entire district. As a special prize the two ladies were presented with cars for the weekend. Brown received the honor of driving a new See TEACHER • Page 2

Wetumpka crew wins Lake Martin cook-off By DAVID GRANGER Staff Writer

Corey Arwood / The Observer

A college intern collects water samples for Coosa Riverkeeper, which later publishes the test results free online every week after they have been analyzed for various factors present in the water, primarily bacteria like E. coli.

Wetumpka’s Johnson Crew took best overall in the 2016 Alabama Wildlife Federation Lake Martin Wild Game Cook-Off held Saturday at the Lake Martin Amphitheatre in Eclectic. The Johnson Crew, which included husband and wife Don and Sharon Johnson and their children Dillon and Amber, won with a fish dish called Lake Martin Surprise. The dish also won the Johnson Crew first place in the fish division of the cook-off competition. Alexander City’s Smokin’ & See COOKOFF • Page 2

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Teacher Ford Mustang from Collier Ford and Montgomery took home a Chevrolet Camaro from Riverside Chevrolet. Dozens of community leaders including business leaders were present for the ceremony. The selection process was conducted by an outside committee, which scored teachers based upon a rubric approved by the Alabama State Department of Education. Teachers were treated to a dinner catered by Bradshaw’s BBQ and provided by USAmeriBank, as well as the song “Wind Beneath my Wings” performed by Daphne McClendon. Several of the teachers who were recognized thanked their own teachers growing up, noting that special teachers gave them the desire to become teachers themselves. Others focused on the students. “We have to remember this is all for the children,” said Wetumpka High School teacher Brenda Brown. “Even at the high school they are still babies and they

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need love.” “It is an honor to work with students everyday,” said Wetumpka Middle School teacher Kimberly Olsen. Broom said she got into teaching due to her own fifth grade teacher. “I am just in awe,” she said. “It is an honor to be thought of in this way and be honored for our profession. At the end of the day though it is all about the kids. They need our love and support. I am truly humbled, but I would do it without all the fanfare.” Montgomery said her award was a “big-shocker” noting, “It is just an honor to see all the nice gifts and everything here. It does give us that extra spark to work even harder.” The list of all of the winners of teachers of the year for 2016-2017: Jessica Kelley Eclectic Elementary School Anna Garner Eclectic Middle School Joe Creamer Eclectic Middle School

Cookoff Jokin’ BBQ took second place in the fish division with their Chimney Rock E’toufee and also took second in the fowl division with their Goat Island Gobble turkey dish. Smokin’ & Jokin’ team members are Chad and Khara Jones and their son, Caleb, and Blake and Rachel Self and their son, Eli. Caleb and Eli competed as the Little Jokers in the cook-off’s junior division and won first place with their Turkey Florentine Rollups. Tallapoosa County Commissioner John McKelvey

Jennifer Meadows Elmore County High School Jeannie Brown Holtville Elementary School Kelli Jo Wilson Holtville Middle School Stacy Chancellor Holtville Middle School Theresa Long Holtville High School Turkessia McGaskill Coosada Elementary School Alicia Whitlock Airport Road Middle School Kim Chapman Millbrook Middle School Veronica Montgomery Millbrook Middle School Melinda Brumbeloe Stanhope Elmore High School Kimberly Deem Wetumpka Elementary School Kimberly Olsen Wetumpka Middle School Diana Frazier Wetumpka Middle School Brenda Brown Wetumpka High School Nacole Baxley Redland Elementary School Jason Harris Elmore County Technical Center

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of New Site and his cook team, Chop Shop Chaos, took first place in the game division with their Plain and Simple venison tenderloin. McKelvey was assisted by his wife, Regina, and his father, Leonard. Century 21 Lake Area Realty – Paul and Dee Lewallen – took second place in the game division with their Gator Stew and third in the fish division with their Shrimp Wontons. Co-op Cutups took first place in fowl with their turkey salad and also won the award for best presentation. The Co-op Cutups team included Kirk Green, Jimmy Sims, Keith Hay and Wendell Mims. Coosa County Cuisine – Matt, Emily, Ricky and Patty Mann – took third place in both the fowl and game divisions. The third-place fowl dish was Pheasant Buckwheat Crepes and the third-place game dish was Venison Cheesesteak Flatbread. Coosa County Cuisine also took second place in best

River

presentation. Fish Tales won the People’s Choice award and Fish Tales Minnows – Davis and Dawson Barnett and Bowen and Wilder Caves – took second place in the youth competition with their Deer Dogs. Kaylee’s Cooking (Kaylee Dobbs) took third place in the youth competition with her Turkey Quesadillas. Judges for the competition included Game Warden Michael East, Alexander City businessman Mark Lamborne, Judge Tom Young, State Rep. Mark Tuggle, TPI owner Kenneth Boone, Alexander City Schools Superintendent Darrell Cooper and Alexander City Methodist Church Pastor Wayne Cowhick. With its best overall win, Johnson Crew now qualifies for the state 2016 AWF Wildlife Cook-Off State Finals, scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 6, at the Lanark in Millbrook.

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The main sources he said are sewer plants, which pump the treated wastewater back into rivers, but also failing septic systems, illegal dumping or improper sewer hookups could contribute. He also mentioned the concentrated livestock operations of chicken houses and cattle farms and even things like geese droppings at local parks act to add the

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bacteria to water sources. “The main time we see E. coli problems are after a significant rain because fecal waste, be it from humans or other warm blooded animals, runs off of farms, off of forests and overwhelms sewer plants and ends up in the lake,” said Chitwood. He said college interns are trained and certified to collect samples for the summer and go out every Thursday to test. Testing begins around early May and continues into Labor Day weekend. Chitwood said all of the information is posted publicly as soon as it is available, and even sent out in text message alerts for those that receive the free service. He said the interns bring the samples back to Chelsea, where their headquarters is located for analysis and later post them to the group’s website. They also collect water temperature data, dissolved oxygen levels and turbidity, orhow clear or muddy the water is. “The majority of the sites we test never have a problem at all but before we started doing this program no one knew that, you know, it was an unknown. It was like, is it safe to swim, we don’t know?” Chitwood said. “But now we have an answer to that by being provided this data.” He said there was no other group or government agency he knew of that did testing of that kind on the Coosa River. A color-coded system is used to easily identify whether a site is safe for swimming. If it is green there are low E. coli levels and is safe for swimming, yellow for moderate and not safe for much contact, whereas red means high levels and is unsafe for contact, Chitwood said. And he mentioned sunlight exposure also lowers E. coli levels. “Lake Jordan and the Coosa River below Jordan Dam going into Wetumpka at least as far into Wetumpka as downtown like Gold Star Park we’ve always seen very good water quality,” said Chitwood.

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Reward

MAY 19, 2016 • PAGE 3

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catch up,” Peterson said. “I told him that was the wrong answer because I had already called the sheriff.” The vehicle sped off. But not before Peterson got the license plate number. When the person following the first suspect came by in an older model SUV, Peterson pulled in behind him and got that license plate number, too. Peterson then reported the incident and the tag numbers to Russell Lands Security. Peterson’s attentiveness and actions resulted in the conviction in Coosa County of an individual linked to a Montgomery gang who is suspected in a total of 45 Lake Martin home burglaries. The suspect was convicted on numerous counts of theft of property in the first degree. Charges are still pending against him in Elmore and Tallapoosa counties. Russell Lands officials did not want to name the suspect with cases pending. On Thursday, Peterson was rewarded for his attentiveness with a check for $5,000 from the Lake Martin Resource Association. “It’s a great day to be able to write and present a check for a real good deed of real value for the residents of Lake Martin,” said John Thompson, president of the Lake Martin Resource Association, as he presented Peterson with his check. “Johnny did not ask for any of this,” said Mack

Daugherty, chief of security for Russell Lands. “We worked on the case for several months, pulling reports on suspicious vehicles on any of the cabin roads. But, thanks to Johnny, we were able to put those suspects on a cabin road where burglaries had occurred.” Daugherty said Peterson’s reward was the second $5,000 reward Lake Martin Resource Association had provided. The previous one, Daugherty said, went to an individual whose attentiveness and reporting helped solve 37 burglaries. Daugherty said in his 23-year career at Russell Lands, the LMRA had distributed 8-10 rewards of $1,000 to persons who helped solve crimes on the lake in addition to the two $5,000 rewards. The amount of the awards was raised in 2008 from $1,000 to $5,000. “The rewards are a great motivator,” Daugherty said. “It is incentive for people to keep their eyes and ears open for suspicious activity.” Individuals are only eligible for the reward when the property that is burglarized is owned by a member of LMRA. Peterson said he had no particular plans for his reward money, but that his wife had already asked him where he was taking her to eat on Thursday night.

Farewell

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RODNEY GRIFFITH continued from page 1

between the two. Meadows also explained that raising a child in Orlando was not exactly ideal. “I wanted my daughter to go to a school where she would not fall through the cracks,” Meadows said. “The people here are so nice, we just love it.” It was Jim Adams, former principal at Elmore County High School, who hired Meadows all those years ago. At that time female Ag or FFA instructors were few and far between in Alabama. “Ten years ago there were only three other female Ag teachers in the state,” she said. Meadows still recalls the day she interviewed with Adams, “It was a Friday in July and he said he had to pray about it over the weekend.” At the time the reason was not apparent to Meadows, but today she understands why Adams chose to pray over the decision to bring her onboard as ECHS newest Ag/FFA teacher. “Being rural Alabama, women were not always accepted into certain positions. He took a chance with me and that first year was a little rough,” she said. However, after that first year it was smooth sailing. “I had to show the students that I can weld, I do woodworking, I know fish and wildlife, and I hunt. After that they welcomed me with open arms,” she said.

Meadows graduated from Louisiana Tech with a degree in Agriculture Education, which was a modernizer for the LA Tech program. “When I graduated from college, I was the first female in the state to graduate with an Ag degree,” she said. Meadows has inspired some of the female student population to join FFA and Ag but she admits changing the mindset that boys do one thing and girls do another has been a slow process. “More and more females are getting involved and want to do this,” Meadows said. Not only are more female students going the FFA and Ag programs, more female teachers are joining the clubs as well. “We’ve grown by leaps and bounds here in Alabama I think we have 50 (female Ag teachers) now,” she said. Because Meadows was revolutionary in so many ways, she is sure to leave a lasting impact at Elmore County High School. Meadows is thankful to the community for being so accepting of her and her family and she says, “I will always be a Panther at heart.”

Cleanup

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by a company at no cost, Davenport said. He said town participation fluctuates, with very low numbers last year, but the largest turnout yet Davenport said was the year prior. The county component will be held at the Elmore Judicial Complex on U.S. Highway 231 in the north parking lot, also from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. It is a partnership between Elmore County and the document destruction company, Shred-it.

A statement from the county website says the event will provide “a secure, reliable and free means to keep unwanted and obsolete records from being accessed by the wrong people.” It indicates only individuals, no businesses, can participate, by bringing up to six “banker-size” boxes containing the documents to be shredded.

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

PAGE 4 • MAY 19, 2016

OPINION

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

The Observer 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.

Captain America: Civil War, but I digress. . .

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n Thursday, I went to see Captain America: Civil War, which is for all intents and purposes a new Avengers movie. Minus Hulk and Thor, it has them all, while introducing a couple of others to the mix. These aren’t spoilers. Most people know of Hulk or Thor’s absence in the movie and the new characters have been advertised. Anyway, it was a great movie. I’m a huge fan of superhero movies but not to the degree where I consider myself a sci-fi nerd—not that there’s anything wrong with that. But I digress… I loved the movie, the storyline, and the heroes. There is internal conflict among the Avengers, which leads to the “Civil War.” They all want the same thing: peace, liberty, and justice for all. They just see different ways of getting there. I think most Americans, regardless of political party, feel the same way, but there are a few knuckleheads who mess it up for everyone. But I digress… The respective sides are led by Captain America and Ironman. Although I understand Team Ironman’s train of thought, I sided with Team Captain America from the start. I just have too much army in me. Captain Steve Rogers represents all that is good in the world, and by golly, he is due a promotion. He’s held the rank of captain since World War II. I was a captain for seven years, which is a bit too long, but that’s the National Guard for you— not that there’s anything wrong with that. But I digress… Although there are no ships, in my humble and biased opinion, yes, biased opinion, Team Ironman is a lot like the navy. They fly around and have all their fancy gadgets, whereas Team Captain America is more of the ground and pound, boots on the ground kind of crowd, much like the army. On a side note, the U.S. Army has more boats than the U.S. Navy and more aircraft than the United

States Air Force. We also have more knuckleheads, but I digress. Captain America embodies the morals and values of days gone by. Sure, there were social ills that were Fuller still being worked out, but Cap represented all that was good in America and continues to do so today when those values are needed more than ever. I often think I was born a few generations too late, as I have so much in common with the older folks. For example, I look forward to working in my garden each day. I sit at home at night and watch documentaries on Netflix. I eat yogurt, orange slices, and like to whittle. One day last week, I even admired a Buick from afar. By now, my extensive Coolwhip bowl collection is known to many, but now I’ve started saving jars. I remove the label, wash them, and store them away for future use, which may or may not ever come. I’m only 43 years old. What the heck is wrong with me? But I digress… The main villain in the film says something along the lines of this: Empires that are defeated by enemies can rebuild, but empires that are defeated from within are doomed. Most of us with common sense want the same thing. We just see different avenues in getting there. I wish we had someone like Cap running for president. What difference does it make? Well, that would no doubt make America great again! Go Army. Beat Navy. 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.

Community stands behind schools

F

riday at lunch, Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. Publisher Steve Baker and I attended the Elmore County Schools Teacher of the Year presentation. While I cannot speak directly for Baker, I think we both had quite an enjoyable time. I have been to several of these events in a number of communities and a handful of states, and I will say that Elmore County’s presentation was probably the best one I have seen. In other districts they simply ask the paper to come and take pictures of the winner, but here they provided a lunch and other benefits to the teachers. For those, like myself, who worry about expenditures of tax dollars, worry not. The teacher of the year event was sponsored by area banks and businesses, many of whom were present during the festivities. In fact, this was perhaps the most impressive aspect of the luncheon. The fact that area

WILLIAM CARROLL Managing Editor

businesses acknowledge and support the work of our public school teachers. In full disclosure, I am a bit biased, my sister is a public school teacher in my hometown of Pearl, Mississippi. Still, the outpouring of support from area businesses is something I think the community can be proud of. Oftentimes businesses in other towns forget that schools are an integral part of developing the future business leaders of tomorrow. I have been the editor in towns where the schools are effectively left to their own devices and business leaders have to be begged to participate in any public school function. That did not appear to

be the case Friday at the Elmore County School District’s administrative offices in Wetumpka. There you would have seen area leaders breaking bread and celebrating teachers. The meeting was not the only sign I have seen of the synergy between the business world and area schools. We have run a couple of stories recently outlining that connection and it is important that the pipeline remains open. When businesses help and support our public schools we get better public schools. We also give kids a look at the possibilities in their future. By keeping the lines of support and communication open we streamline the transition from student to an employed member of the citizenry, contributing taxes and other support to our area economies. William Carroll is the managing editor of the Wetumpka Herald, the Eclectic Observer and the Tallassee Tribune.

Eclectic Observer The

334-567-7811 • Fax 334-567-3284 email: news@thewetumpkaherald.com THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER (005-022) is published weekly on Thursday by Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc., 548 Cherokee Road, Alexander City, AL 35010. Periodical postage paid at Wetumpka, Alabama. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Eclectic Observer, 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 One Year in Elmore, Tallapoosa or Coosa County: $25 One Year Elsewhere: $38 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 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

It may take an act of congress, but every vote counts

L

ast week we talked about how difficult it is to win passage of a legislative act. It does not matter if the proposed legislation is for apple pie and motherhood. If for nothing else, the bill has to go before both House and Senate committees, win approval, and not get an amendment put on it. If it gets an amendment on it, it has to basically start all over again. It then has to get placed on the special order calendar set by the Rules Committee and there are hundreds of bills waiting to get on this calendar and only a few bills ever get on the calendar each day and there are only 30 legislative days in the session. If it gets on the calendar, it then has to pass both chambers and hopefully the governor is also for apple pie and motherhood, because if he vetoes it, it has to start all over again. Let me give you an example of a piece of apple pie and motherhood legislation I was asked to sponsor when I was a freshman legislator. There was a quirk in Alabama criminal law that allowed the family of a criminal defendant to be in the courtroom during a criminal trial but, unbelievably, the family of the crime victim could not be in the courtroom. The Victims of Crime Leniency (“VOCAL”) sought to correct this injustice. VOCAL asked me to sponsor its bill and work for its passage. I worked diligently on the bill. The press gave the bill glowing editorials for its fairness. We got the bill out of the House, where it passed overwhelmingly. When it got to the Senate it was assigned to the Senate Judiciary

Inside the Statehouse By Steve Flowers Committee. The chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee was Sen. Earl Hilliard from Jefferson County. He was opposed to the bill and as chairman of the committee, he “deep sixed” it and would not let it out of committee. No amount of haranguing from VOCAL or bad press could budge Earl. Then, one day I was on the floor of the House and the VOCAL leader, Mrs. Miriam Shehane, called me out to the lobby. She said Earl would not be in Montgomery that day but the Senate Judiciary Committee was meeting and the vice chairman was going to bring up our bill out of order. We quickly went to the 6th floor and whisked our bill out of the Judiciary Committee. It won final approval in the Senate a few weeks later and became law. The old truism “It takes an act of Congress” is very accurate, especially in politics. Also during legislative sessions, I am asked by people if their letter makes a difference. My response is, yes, definitely. Most legislators and congressmen want to know what their constituents are thinking. They generally want to vote like their districts feel. I would cherish this input and actually solicited it. Let me share with you a story

which illustrates how important a letter to a legislator can become. One year, I received a note from one of my favorite retired teachers. She had not only taught me but also taught my mom and dad. She was as fine a lady as I had ever known. Her note simply asked me to vote for some issue I perceived as not very controversial. I was not even cognizant of the issue until she made me aware of it, but she even referred to it by bill number. It did not pertain to education and like I said, it did not appear to have much opposition or controversy. I do not even remember what the issue was now. However, because I revered this lady, I called her and told her due to her interest I would vote for the measure. I kept her note on my desk with the bill number referenced. Lo and behold, about halfway through the legislative session, I saw the bill on the special order calendar for the day. I got primed for the vote. I voted for the bill simply because of the letter from my former teacher. To my amazement, I looked up at the large electronic vote tally machine and the bill passed by only one vote. One vote can make a difference. 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.

FAITH

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MAY 19, 2016 • PAGE 5

Religion Briefs • Episcopal Church of the Epiphany On Saturday, May 21, from 9 to 11 a.m. Episcopal Church of the Epiphany will host “Beans & Rice.” The Beans & Rice ministry takes place the third Saturday of every month. At that time the Parish Hall is open to those in need of food, who may choose their preferred items from the selection available. On May 22 at 9:30 a.m. Sunday school will continue the “Confirmation and Coffee” series with the topic “The

Church.” At 10:30 a.m. Father Wells Warren will celebrate the Holy Eucharist, with coffee hour to follow. For more information, visit the church website: http://epiphanytallassee.org/ • St. Vincent de Paul OUR LIFE’S JOURNEY is a service of St. Vincent de Paul Church and airs weekly from 8-8:30 a.m. on 580 WACQ and FM 101.1 in Tallassee. Listen Live on www.wacqradio.com or the TuneIn app on your smartphone. The pastor of St. Vincent

de Paul is Monsignor Charles Troncale. May 22 - Building Better Families part 2 (Matthew Kelly) May 29 - Building Better Families part 3 (Matthew Kelly) June 5 - Vatican II Council June 12 - Sola Scriptura part 1 • East Tallassee Baptist Church The Forever Young Seniors (55+) will meet Tuesday night, May 24, at 6:30. The East Tallassee Baptist Church Quartet will be

singing. They are great so don’t miss it. Bring a covered dish and plan to enjoy good food, good fellowship and good singing! • East Tallassee United Methodist Church The “River’s Edge Flea Market” is open every Saturday from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. All vendors are welcome: new items, old items, crafts, youth groups, ball teams, baked goods, produce and food. The flea market is sponsored by the East Tallassee UMC and is located across from City Hall. We

will offer various priced booths. To reserve a space call Joan Wood at 334-312-4913. All proceeds raised by ETUMC will be used for church-sponsored programs. • St. John All Nations Pentecostal Foundation Church 3495 Hwy 14 Notasulga, AL 36866. Minister Alma Purter, Pastor. Welcome, welcome, welcome! We look forward to your presence. Program committee: Sister Brenda Moss 334-4010706, Sister Linda Pullium 334209-3208 and Sister Judy Moss.

Area Church Services Agapé Assembly of God Hwy. 63 North Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Sunday Worship 10:30 a.m. Sunday Evening Worship 6 p.m. Wednesday Night Service 7 p.m. Balm of Gilead Sunday School 10 a.m. Worship Service 11 a.m. Bethlehem East Baptist Church Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship 11 a.m. Discipleship Training 5 p.m. Evening Worship 6 p.m. Wednesday Evening 7 p.m. Beulah Missionary Baptist Church P.O. Box 130, Eclectic 36024 Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Worship Services 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Wednesday Services 6 p.m. Friday Services 6 p.m. Prayer Meeting and Bible Class 1st Tuesday Prayer Meeting 6 p.m. Central Baptist Church Sunday School 10 a.m. Worship Service 11 a.m. Adult Choir Practice 5 p.m. Evening Worship Service 6 p.m. Wednesday: Children, Youth and Adult Bible Study/Prayer Meeting 6:30 p.m. Central United Methodist Church Sunday Morning 9:30 a.m.

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Chaney Creek Primitive Baptist Church Every Sunday except 2nd Sunday 10:30 a.m. Saturday before 2nd Sunday 10:30 a.m. Chapel United Methodist Church Services 2nd and 4th Sunday 9:45 a.m. Sunday School 2nd and 4th 9:15 a.m. Sunday School 1st, 3rd and 5th 10 a.m. Claud Independent Methodist Church 81232 Tallassee Hwy Sunday School 9:15 a.m. Worship Service 10:30 a.m. Evening Worship 6 p.m. Wednesday Prayer and Bible Study 7 p.m. Eclectic First Baptist Church Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Service 10:45 a.m. Discipleship Training 5 p.m. Wednesday: Meal 5:30 p.m. Youth, Children and Adult Studies and Activities 6:15 p.m. Eclectic United Methodist Church 1035 Main Street Morning Service 10:50 a.m. Evening Service 6 p.m. Wednesday: Meal 5:30 p.m. Service 6:30 p.m.

Georgia Road Church of Christ 4003 Georgia Road Sunday: Morning Bible Study 9 a.m. Morning Worship 10 a.m. Evening Worship 5 p.m. Wednesday: Mid-Week Bible Study 7 p.m. Good Hope Baptist Church 1766 S. Fleahop Road Sunday School 9:15 a.m. Morning Worship 10:30 a.m. Discipleship Training 5 p.m. Evening Worship 6 p.m. Wednesday: Prayer Service 7 p.m. TeamKID and “R.U.S.H” Youth Celebration 6:30 p.m. Healing Waters Church of God 1639 Kowaliga Road Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Morning Worship 10:30 a.m. Evening Worship 6 p.m. Wednesday: Family Training Hour 7 p.m. Kendrick Memorial Baptist Church Hwy. 9 Nixburg Sunday School 10 a.m. Worship Service 11 a.m. Mt. Hebron Church of Christ 4530 Mt. Hebron Road Sunday: Morning Bible Study 10 a.m. Morning Worship 11 a.m. Evening Worship 6 p.m. Wednesday:

Mid-Week Bible Study 7 p.m. Mt. Hebron East Baptist Church Sunday School 10 a.m. Sunday Worship 11 a.m. Wednesday: Children in Action 6:30 p.m. Bible Study and Prayer Meeting 6:30 p.m. First Wednesday of Month Potluck supper, Bible study and prayer meeting, 6 p.m. Pleasant Hill Baptist Church Sunday: Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Service 10:30 a.m. Evening Worship 5:30 p.m. Wednesday: Bible Study and Prayer Meeting 6:30 p.m. Adult Choir Practice 6:30 p.m. Prospect Baptist Church Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Worship Service 11 a.m. Discipleship Training 6 p.m. Worship Service 7 p.m. Wednesday: Bible Study and Teen Kid 6:30 p.m. Refuge Baptist Church 3098 Red Hill Road Sunday School 9:15 a.m. Worship Service 10:30 a.m. Rock Springs Baptist Church 375 Rigsby Rd, Tallassee AL 334-283-1156

Submit your church calendar items and events to: thewetumpkaherald.com

Rushenville Baptist Church 10098 Georgia Road Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship 11 a.m. Children’s Choir 5 p.m. Bible Study 6 p.m. GA’s, RA’s 6 p.m. Adult Choir Practice 6:45 p.m. Wednesday: Bible Study and Prayer Meeting 6 p.m. Salem Road Baptist Church 12 Old Salem Road Sunday School 10 a.m. Worship Service 11 a.m. Sunday Night Services 6 p.m. Wednesday Evening Prayer 7 p.m. Providence Primitive Baptist Church 4850 Chana Creek Road Bible Study 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship 10:45 a.m. Evening Worship 5:30 p.m. Wednesday Prayer and Praise 7 p.m. Union No. 2 Missionary Baptist Church PO Box 240452 Eclectic, AL 36024 Sunday School - 10 a.m. Morning Worship - 11:15 Tuesday Bible Study - 6 p.m. Watson Chapel Congregation 2223 East Cotton Road Sunday School 10 a.m. Morning Worship 11 a.m.

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Dog bite awareness week is an important part of summer safety REA CORD Executive Director

O

n Saturday, May 7, a simply wonderful group came together at The Elms in Coosada for the ‘Run for the Roses - Coosada Style,’ Kentucky Derby Party to raise money for our shelter! With fancy hats, bow ties and incredible food in abundance these dedicated pet lovers raised almost $3,400 for our shelter! We will do a shout out to all who hosted this event once we make sure we have all their names, but suffice to say we are very lucky that this group has enough faith in our work to continue this class event for seven straight years now. Thank you ALL so very, very much! We had a super Friday the 13th thanks to Charline Pope and all who donated supplies and money at Millbrook Walmart Supply Drive! Charline brought back a truckload of donated supplies and more than $200 and all of that truly helps as our intake starts its late spring/summer increase meaning more animals in our care. Thank you to everyone for your generosity!

HUMANE SOCIETY OF ELMORE COUNTY NEWS This week is Dog Bite Awareness Week and while we love our dogs, owners also need to be aware of the risks involved with dog bites. Sadly children, followed by senior citizens, are the most frequent victims of dog bites and occur most often during simple everyday activities. Besides the injury and trauma, dog bites are costly. Insurance companies paid out more than $480 million in homeowner’s insurance claims in 2013 at an average cost of over $27,000 per dog bite claim. Education and situational awareness are the best preventions so here are a few tips to help prevent a dog bite. A general tip is to always be cautious around strange dogs, and to treat your own dog with respect. Because children are the most com-

mon victims of dog bites, parents and caregivers should: NEVER leave a baby or small child alone with a dog. Teach children not to approach strange dogs or try to pet dogs through fences. Teach children to ask permission from the dog’s owner before petting the dog. Teach children to leave dogs alone when the dog is eating or playing with a toy or a chewy. Teach children not to put their face up to a dog’s face and to not kiss or hug dogs. Teach children not to scream, run at or away from, or throw things at strange dogs As a dog owner you can also take measures to help ensure your own dog will not be involved in a bite by: Carefully selecting your pet from a reputable source. Socializing your puppy/dog so it feels at ease around people and other animals. Not putting your dog in a position where it feels threatened or teased. Keeping your pet safely contained at home and if fenced, making sure

gates are secure. Training your dog. Basic commands help dogs understand what is expected of them and help build a bond of trust between you and your dog. Walking and exercising your dog regularly for its physical & mental health. Avoiding highly excitable games like wrestling or tug of war that might escalate. Using a leash in public to ensure you are able to control your dog. Keeping your dog healthy; having your dog vaccinated against preventable diseases, taking your dog to your Veterinarian for routine checkups. Spaying or neutering your pet to reduce potential behavior issues associated with females in season and males fighting to get to those females in season. No one wants to suffer the injury of a dog bite so please think ahead and take measures to prevent that ever happening to you, your children or others.

PAGE 6 • MAY 19, 2016

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MAY 19, 2016 • PAGE 7

Area Calendar May

MUSEUM EXHIBIT: During the months of April and May, the Elmore County Museum’s exhibit will feature the nationally known Elmore County Band - fondly called “The Big Blue”. The exhibit is filled with yearbooks, pictures of the band beginning in the 1950s and running through the 70s, plaques, scrapbooks, and a video of the 2003 Big Blue reunion! There are some funny, FUNNY stories told on the video! Come by Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday between 10 a.m. & 3 p.m. and take a step back in time!

MAY 18-UNTIL

RELAY PLANNING: Relayers, cancer survivors, community leaders, team captains and hard workers are all needed to help plan the American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life. Relay For Life is a unique fundraising event that allows participants from all walks of life – including patients, medical support staff, corporations, civic organizations, churches and community volunteers – to join together in the fight against cancer. Volunteers from the Tallassee Community are needed. If you would like to join the Relay For Life of Tallassee as a volunteer or team participant, call Amber Voss with the American Cancer Society at 334-612-8174.

May 16-18

CHURCH REVIVAL: The Watson Chapel Congressional Church will be hosting a revival May 16-18 at 7 p.m.

May 19

AFTER HOURS: Chamber Business After Hours, Sunset Reception is set for Thursday, May 19 at Wind Creek Wetumpka, 100 River Oaks Drive, Wetumpka from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. SCHOOL ENDS: Final day of the 20152016 school year

MAY 20

GRADUATION: THS Graduation 8 p.m. at J.E “Hot” O’Brien Stadium.

May 21

PADDLE FOR A PURPOSE: Children’s Harbor Lake Martin Campus is hosting Paddle for a Purpose May 21 at 8:30 a.m. Registration fees are $35 for the mile race and $45 for the 3 and 6 mile race. This event is part of the SUP the South race series. Non-racers are welcome to watch.

GOSPEL CONCERT: The LeFevre Quartet will be in Concert Saturday, May 21 at Calvary Baptist Wetumpka. The LeFevre Quartet is recognized as one of Southern Gospel Music’s top groups. The Concert will begin at 6:00 p.m. There is no charge for the concert. However, a Love Offering Will Be Received for the quartet. For more information please contact the church office 334-567-4729 or visit our website www.calvarybaptistwetumpka.org ANTIQUE TRACTOR PULL: The Elmore Volunteer Fire Department and the Southern Antique Iron Association are presenting and Antique Tractor Show and Pull Saturday, May 21 in Elmore. Classes for the pull are for 2500 pounds to 10,500 pounds.There will be pedal tractor races for kids and plenty of antique tractors and farm machinery on display. Gates open at 7 a.m. with an opening ceremony at 10 a.m. and first pull at 1 p.m. For more information visit alabamatractorshow.com. Vendors can call 334-478-0711. Tractor folks can contact Tony Martin at 334285-3810 or email at w900a@bellsouth.net. Submitted / The Observer

May 22

FOURTH SUNDAY SINGING: The annual 4th Sunday Singing in May will be held on Sunday, May 22nd beginning at 10:00 a.m., at Balm of Gilead Church located at 5187 Balm Road. The quest singers will be the Master’s Touch from the Valley. Lunch will be served at noon. SINGING: Titus Baptist Church in Titus is hosting a singing Sunday, May 22 at 6 p.m. The Dyes will be singing. Free admission and love offering will be taken.

MAY 23

Tallassee City Council meeting at City Hall from 6 p.m.-7 p.m.

May 28-29

ART ON THE LAKE: Children’s Harbor Lake Martin Campus is hosting Art on the Lake May 28 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and May 29 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Art on the Lake provides an opportunity for artists from all over the Southeast to showcase their art including canvas, jewelry, pottery and sculpture are available for purchase with a portion of the sale benefiting Children’s Harbor.

Pet of the Week – Katherine

Katherine is a very sweet four-month-old Bulldog/Labrador mix girl. She is the last of a litter of nine pups still looking for her forever home. She is an easy gal, loves everyone, good with dogs and cats, and likes to help pick up pine cones and sticks. She should be in the 40 lb range when fully grown. Our adoption fees are $100 for dogs & $50 for cats under 1 year old; cats over one year old 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 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 334-567-3377. We are open for adoptions Mon–Fri 10-5 & Sat 9-3. and ends Saturday, July 30. Hours of operation will be Monday-Saturday from 1 p.m.-5 p.m. Daily pass is $3 per day and individual pass is $45, family pass for up to four in same household is $60 and five or more $75 for season.

JUNE 7

Industrial Development Board meeting 1 Twin Creek Drive from 5:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m.

JUNE 1

POOL OPENING DAY: Pool season for 2016 begins Wednesday June 1 at 1 p.m.

JUNE 10-11

TALLASSEE NOW: Tallassee Now event

is set for June 11 at Bell Park and J.E. “Hot” O’Brien Stadium.

JUNE 13-JULY 8

SWIM LESSONS: First session of swim lessons for ages 4 and up (must be 4 by time of lesson) will be 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.

SPORTS

Cory Diaz Sports Editor Phone 334-567-7811 sports@thewetumpkaherald.com

PAGE 8 • MAY 19, 2016

THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER

BROWN’S BEST: Elmore County softball star ends stellar career By CORY DIAZ Sports Editor

Last year. Best year. Turning the final page of her stellar high school career at Elmore County High May 5 in a loss to Dadeville in the Class 4A, Area 5 Tournament at Holtville, the senior knew she gave everything she had to her team. And that was the way she worked so hard to go out. Everything before, the long hours and extra workouts, the thousands of miles traveled over the last couple of summers to sharpen her game, the drive to be the best, Brown had no other option but to leave it all out on the field. “I’m OK,” Brown said right after her final game in a Lady Panthers jersey. “I am calm, surprisingly, but I’m just happy. I love my team, so it doesn’t matter. We had a good time.” Brown, heading to the University of Alabama next year to play softball on scholarship, didn’t shed a tear, and that’s because she saved her best for last. Shedding tears is how opposing defenses responded when the 5-foot-5, 120-pound leadoff batter and shortstop stepped into the batter’s box. During her senior campaign at ECHS, Brown set the Alabama High School Athletic Association singleseason record in batting average at .640 (55-for-86), along with 60 runs scored, 18 RBIs while only striking out four times. Brown hit a resounding .523 for her career with 221 runs scored and 183 stolen bases, all shattering school records. The shortstop earned Class 4A FirstTeam All-State honors her sophomore and junior seasons. ECHS reached the state tournament her sophomore year.

“This has been my best season here at Elmore County. Really this past summer really helped me through everything, I’ve been able to get all these awards, scholarships, and I just hope to continue to get these good accomplishments as I go to college,” Brown said. “I set a few records, which I’m glad. Throughout, it’s been pretty good. “Our season as a whole wasn’t too (good), I’m just glad I got to produce as well as I did and that really helped the team.” For the last three seasons, Holtville softball coach Daryl Otwell had the dubious task of trying to find a way stop the Elmore County High speedster. He couldn’t. Otwell tried everything, even inviting Holtville’s fastest baseball players to practice to simulate Brown’s speed. “We worked on staying away, but you can’t stay too far away and walk her because she’s a base-stealing threat,” Otwell said. “Over my three years here, we’ve borrowed baseball players, get the fastest kid around to help simulate her speed, and that’s very hard to do. “It’s hard to fully stop her. You just hope to contain her.” What were most impressive, Otwell said, were Brown’s leadership and how evident her work ethic was. “She’s such an all-around great player; you have to know when she’s coming up in the lineup. She can bunt for hits, slap for hits and then she has some power,” he said. “Defensively, she has so much range. Her presence and energy level, she was really the spark plug for that team this year. Her leadership and positive attitude always stood out to me coaching against her. Whether they were

Panthers’ Floyd selected to North-South All-Star Game By CORY DIAZ Sports Editor

For the second straight summer, Elmore County High will be represented at the Alabama High School Athletic Association’s (AHSAA) annual North-South All-Star Football Game. Senior standout and Lenoir-Rhyne University signee Kell Floyd was named to the 37-player South roster for the 57th playing of the showcase, announced Monday by the Alabama High School Athletic Directors and Coaches Association (AHSADCA), on Friday, July 21 at Cramton Bowl in Montgomery. Kickoff is slated for 7 p.m. Floyd starred on both sides of the ball for the Panthers his junior and senior seasons, garnering First-Team All-Area honors while leading the defense in tackles and the offense in total yards for both campaigns. He earned a Class 4A second-team All-State spot as a junior and an honorable mention selection as a senior at defensive back. The 5-foot-10, 160-pound athlete saved his best season for his last, where he amassed 1,636 yards on offense and scored 18 total touchdowns. At the free safety position on defense, Floyd paced the Panthers with 61 tackles and had one interception, two fumble recoveries, one of which he returned for a touchdown. The North-South All-Star Game will be the last all-star game of this year’s AHSAA

Cory Diaz / The Observer

Elmore County senior shortstop and University of Alabama signee Elissa Brown (22) swings through a pitch against Dadeville Friday during the Class 4A, Area 5 tournament at Holtville.

up by 20 or down by 20, she played the game the right way. “I’ve seen a lot of good players in my day. I think from six years of being around the sport, I do not recall an athlete with the overall tools she has. She was a complete ball player, and she’s up there with the best I’ve ever seen.” Brown’s final high school at-bat was an RBI single, and there wasn’t a more fitting way for her to cap her final game – helping her team.

Elmore County still has ‘work to do’ after spring camp By CORY DIAZ Sports Editor

Cory Diaz / The Observer

Elmore County senior running back Kell Floyd (3) finds a hole in the Tallassee defense to run through during last season’s final game at BurtHaynie Field.

Summer Conference, where is also hosts contests in baseball, softball, boys’ and girls’ soccer, boys’ and girls’ basketball and volleyball. The South holds a 30-24-2 edge in the series, and the North won 14-13 last year.

“My entire career, I just think it was all-around good years, including school ball and summer ball. I’ve really produced well and I’m glad of that,” Brown said. “On top of all that, my senior year was the best one. “What I said at the beginning of the season, ‘last year, best year.’ Which it was and I’m just happy for that. I hope to go to Bama and also produce, star and work hard, and get to where I want to be.”

Patchwork continues for the Elmore County varsity football team coming out of spring drills. In a three-team spring jamboree at Dadeville Friday night, the Panthers fell to the host-Tigers on a last-ditch pass with four ticks left and played Booker T. Washington to a 0-0 tie to culminate the evaluation period. “We’ve got a lot of work to do,” ECHS head football coach Norman Dean said. “The offensive line really has to play together. You’re looking at five guys working together as a group and if one doesn’t fit right, it doesn’t work. That’s one of the things that came out of spring. “The same thing for the defense; they’ve got to learn their run fits.” Perhaps the biggest hole to fill is the departure of two-way standout Kell Floyd, who amassed 1,636 total yards on offense with 18 touchdowns and led the defense in 2015 at the safety position with 61 tackles. “Who’s going to be the playmaker on offense? Sometimes you don’t just need one playmaker, and it doesn’t appear we have that one to-go guy,” Dean said. “They’re going to have to share the glory.” Elmore County played BTW first as both varsity defenses pitched shutouts,

while the Golden Eagles’ JV team defeated the Panthers JV, 6-0. Against Dadeville, ECHS made noise through the air when rising senior and starting quarterback Will Venable connected with fellow rising senior receiver Tyric Belyeu on a long touchdown pass. Backup signal caller, rising sophomore Deangelo Splunge, found rising sophomore Dalton Odom on a short touchdown strike. Place kicker Josh Stockman converted both PATs and rising sophomore running back D.J. Patrick had a fiveyard scoring run called back. Margarius Buchanan kept Dadeville in the game, finding pay dirt on two called quarterback runs before throwing the jamboree-winning touchdown pass in the waning seconds. “It was basically, ‘snap it to me and catch me if you can.’ He’s quick and he’s got some speed,” Dean said of Buchanan. ECHS still has work to do to get ready for the 2016 season, Dean said, and now the team has the blueprint for the offseason. “We did answer some questions. There’s a lot of work to be done, and that’s just where we are right now. Playing a scrimmage, you know what you need to focus on in the offseason, summer workouts, as well as 7-on-7s. It gave us a good base to start on.”

Submitted/ The Observer

Just call it champions night. The Elmore County Auburn Club will host special guests from Auburn’s national championship equestrian team and its regional championship gymnastics team. Head equestrian coach Greg Williams and head gymnastics coach Jeff Graba will join members of the Elmore County club during its spring meeting May 31 at Must Stop Café in Wetumpka. Doors open just before 6:30 p.m. with dinner to start at 7 p.m. “We’re super excited to have Greg and Jeff join us,” Elmore County AU Club President Kevin Taylor said.

“Since Greg and Jeff have been on staff at Auburn, they have continued to propel these two programs to levels most wish they could accomplish.” The equestrian team captured its fourth national championship in the program’s history, while the gymnastics team qualified for the national meet for the second straight year after capturing the Ann Arbor Regional title. In addition to getting a chance to hear from Williams and Graba about their outstanding seasons, the club will have a few live and silent auction items for Auburn fans to purchase.

Tickets for the dinner are $30 for adults and $15 for children ages 10 and under. Taylor reminds Auburn fans that they do not have to be members of the Auburn Alumni Association to attend. “The club events are open to all Auburn people who support Auburn in some form or fashion,” he said. “We are looking forward to great attendance and fellowship.” Proceeds from the dinner will go toward the Elmore County Auburn Club Scholarship Fund. To reserve a seat, call Jay Collier at 334-5678444 or call Taylor at 334-314-8137.

Robert Hudson / The Observer

Elmore County’s Shakwan Bickley (15) runs after a catch during last Friday’s jamboree against Booker T. Washington in Dadeville.

Honoring Our Graduates Edgewood Academy • Elmore County High School Holtville High School • New Life Christian Stanhope Elmore High School • Wetumpka High School Victory Baptist School

At this exciting time, we’d like to offer our congratulations to all of this year’s hardworking graduates. We hope you are as proud of yourselves as we are of you.

Good luck & best wishes to the Class of 2016 A special supplement to The Eclectic Observer - May 18, 2016 and Elmore County Weekend - May 21, 2016

Page B2 • MAY 2016

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

THE WETUMPKA HERALD

Congratulations to the Class of 2016 Life is full of defining moments, moments so profound and meaningful that we forever look at our lives in terms of before and after these events. To the class of 2016, I say congratulations for achieving such a moment! You have completed one of life’s goals, graduating high school. This journey began with someone who loved you walking you into kindergarten while holding your hand. As you walk across the stage and accept your diploma, those hands that once held yours will be clapping and cheering for you. The journey has taken you from childhood to young adult. The path has not always been easy, but you have learned many life lessons along the way. You have learned how to share with others, listen to others, and to formulate your own opinions. Perhaps the most important lesson that you have learned is how to set goals and do what is necessary to accomplish them. During my career as an educator, I have learned to recognize the importance of being able to embrace the excitement of learning, the discovery of experiment, and the moment of creativity. I have also learned the learning, experimenting, and creating must be accompanied by the willingness to turn failures into learning lessons. Thomas Edison actually went through 10,000 prototypes for the light bulb before he discovered the one model of the light bulb that would bring him success. When asked by an interviewer about his

I have REALLY enjoyed this year with this group of students. Parents and family members, please let these seniors know how proud you are of them; they have worked hard to reach this point in their lives. On behalf of the entire Elmore County Public Schools family, Senior Class of 2016, go forth with confidence and represent your families and your schools, and - perhaps most importantly - yourselves with integrity and pride!

Superintendent for the entire school year, and we have had an amazing year. Plus, I have spent most of the weekend signing over 700 personal letters to you because I want you to know how proud I am of each of you. You should receive your letter with your diploma on the night of your graduation. From being in the classroom with you, to driving you during trips on the school bus, attending assemblies with you, watching you receive high honors for your academic achievements, having quality time with you to reflect on the direction of our school system, participating in extracurricular activities with you, and countless other precious memories,

thousands of failures, Edison replied, “I have not failed 10,000 times. I have not failed once. I have succeeded in proving that those 10,000 ways will not work. When I have eliminated the ways that will not work, I will find the way Harrison that will work.” I hope that you will use your failures as opportunities to redefine your goals and as moments of discovery, not as loss and rejection. As Martin Luther King, Jr. said, “We must accept finite disappointment, but never lose infinite hope.” Your family, your teachers, and your community have tried to provide you with the knowledge, confidence, and security to explore the world which now awaits you as you go on to your adult life. Some of you will go on to other educational endeavors, some of you will protect your country by joining the military, and some of you will join the workforce. Whatever your next step, I pray that you are both blessed and challenged. I hope that you have the opportunity to succeed and to fail. In the words of Mary Oliver, “Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?” Whatever you choose to do with your life, embrace it with joy, live it for others, and share what you learn along the way. You all are the first class whom I have had the pleasure of serving as your

Dr. Andre Harrison is the Superintendent of the Elmore County Schools.

GOT NEWS? We have nine publications covering the lake & river region.

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LOCAL NEWS THAT’S REALLY LOCAL. Really. 2015 Wetumpka Herald Offensive Player of the Year: Nathan Rourke. See Sports, pg. 8.

50¢

2016

Contributed / The

Herald

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on the Moore’s order comesdistrict t state heels of differen punch holes in the courts trying to ell v. Hodges landmark Obergef for same-sex case, which allowed marriages. ordered On Wednesday Moore by decision that “until further e Court, the the Alabama Suprem the Alabama existing orders of

THURSDAY • JANUARY 28, 2016

Probate Court Court Judge John Enslen, official capacity capacity as the the Chief in his official Elections Officer of Elmore County, has petitioned Court of petitioned the Circuit Circuit Co Elmore County emergency County for an emerg declaration finding declaration judgment and fin on whether Andre’ L. Harris Harrison, current superintende superintendent education su perintendent nt of ed

Enslen

for Elmore County, can be placed on the ballot as an independent in the upcoming March 1 primary. Harrison, who was previously disqualified as a Republican candidate due to missing a certificate of administration from the Alabama State Department of Education, sent a letter of intent to Enslen Jan. 4 indicating he would run as an independent candidate, the petition alleges. In his petition, Enslen seeks the answers to four basic questions: Whether Harrison can appear on any subsequent ballot for an election after being disqual-

By KEVIN TAYLOR Copy Editor / The Herald

nt Student innovators win gralenge Verizon app chal Holtville students excel in

Nashville meets Eclectic By CARMEN RODGERS Staff Writer

Contributed / The Observer

Good Hope Baptist Church brought Gospel and Art to The Warehouse. The event was held Jan. 17 and brought for fun for children of all ages. The Warehouse is known for hosting community-oriented events

THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY

The Warehouse in Eclectic finds ways to be a staple in the community By CARMEN RODGERS Staff Writer

For years, The Warehouse in downtown Eclectic has been used to bring people together. The facility was once a cotton warehouse where farmers would bring their bounty to be sold. However, it was more than that. At the cotton warehouse people would come together to trade products and goods. Today, The Warehouse is once again bringing people together, in more ways than one. Not only does The Warehouse bring hearts together in marriage, it has become the heart of the community. “Our marriage to the community has been the best union,” said Aubrey Hornsby, who owns and

We live, work and play right here. We know what’s important to Elmore County. Rely on us. constantly evaluated School bus routes, numbers

a.m., he bell rings at 7:30 than when the tardy don’t said. Redland drivers By JOHN W. PEELER “For instance, the until 6:20 (a.m.),” kids Managing Editor , then start picking up if you go to Redland any amount on the Mullino said. “So, Redland School. If you To a 10-year-old, like a long time, but to t) seem … they you go (straigh rtation school bus may eighth and up, then Public Schools Transpo ng are in seventh and go to the middle school and Elmore County Mullino, said evaluati are picked up and Coordinator, Ray capacity of every bus is a the school.” and high sure routes bus nity is a growing process to make Redland commu and has buses committed home constant and ongoing school and back students community, he said, students arrive at Elementary School at the only for Redland under safely. are checked out longest routes are be on and after those buses Mullino said the may See BUS • Page 2 though the drivers must have two hours, even as 6 a.m. Drivers no later the road as early respective schools their at students the

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TToday’s Today’ oday’ss

Elmore County Public Schools Transportation Department constantly monitors transportation routes and the numbers of students that ride the buses and make any adjustments that may need to be made.

John Peeler / The

Herald

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operates The Warehouse in downtown Eclectic. The Warehouse often hosts events specifically for the community. In October The Warehouse hosted the Auburn/Alabama Dance for the children of the town. Many of the local churches of all denominations use the facility for community gatherings. “I think there’s a tradition of The Warehouse partnering with local churches for several years now,” Hornsby said. “Its cross is at the center of town. We love to work with the local churches.” When the town of Eclectic decided to adopt a strategic plan last year, the goal was to envision the town 30 years into the future. In the developed plan The Warehouse is the center of town.

Aubrey Hornsby is no stranger to the entertainment business. He spent many years in Nashville, which is the hub of the country music industry. Today, Hornsby hopes to bring a little bit of Nashville right here to Eclectic. Hornsby said he hopes the newly formed group will offer a creative outlet for women that will allow various perspectives to shine through. “I’d like it to be uplifting, but you have to tell the truth and not every bit of the truth is uplifting,” he said. “Sometimes you have to sing the blues.” Currently, the group hopes to meet on a regular basis at the Warehouse on Main Street in Eclectic. “I want to inspire an ongoing women songwriters night. We call it Songs of Love and Life,” Hornsby said. The group is in its beginning stages and Hornsby is searching for a professional female performer that will offer knowledge and experience to the amateurs See SINGERS • Page 2

Legislators representing Autauga a and Elmore counties, along with Autauga County Engineer John Mark A Davis and Elmore County Engineer D Richie Beyer toured the two counties R recently for a sampling of the road r and a bridge issues facing the two counties. The tour is part of the DRIVE t Alabama campaign. A Beyer said he and the Davis collaborated together to highlight the l positive things the counties have done p through the Alabama Transportation t Rehabilitation and Improvement R Program. P “This was to show some of our legislators some of our needs,” he l said. “Just to drive home the point to them we are doing everything we can t with our resources, but we really are w in i need of some more road and bridge

funding. We want to take what we’ve done good in ATRIP and leverage some of that money on routes that are eligible for federal funds … which is in our case about 75 percent of our paved road system.” Beyer said only about 200 miles of Elmore County’s 800-mile system is eligible for federal aid money to them. “We’ve got a problem in Elmore County where we are doing anywhere from on an annual basis of 10 to 15 miles of road work and our problem is in the 200 mile range,” he said. “We’re not really making too big a dent in it. As soon as we do 10 to 15 miles a year, we have 10 to 15 miles that fall in that same condition, so we’re not really making that much headway on it.” Beyer said there are 800 miles of paved roadways in the county in addition to the 200 miles of dirt roadways. See TOUR • Page 2

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conditions. Whether it Alabama was gories and was flooding, and bridge of hit hard road recent sever closu four were in those considered, e weather andby downed powe res, soil erosion, nearly any in ranged from good condition, six given count al wells and r lines or individumediocre to y it seemed that septic system and poor s, there matioone lacked enough inforseen from thesome effect could be was little left entire n for a grade ly unaffected damaging by the storm conditions to be deters. mined. that made theirstorm And that through the meant more The state southern states way was put on tthe last two infrastructu strain over rating of a received a “good” week re systems, which “B” in the categ And Alabama’ss. earlier in Dece of aviation, had energy, ports ories along a rail, while it with that of infrastructure, all been given a statewide mber and received medio any given grade of a over- to aaffected comm poor grade cre unity, was report card “C-” in the latest hit hard by h from a “C+” to a s ranging from the holiday also Society of Civil the American “D-” in drink weather water, bridg ing Engineers. es, The report water, inland waste and storm covered 11 catewaterways and See INFRASTRUC TURE • Page 2

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Rec offers self defense classes Director Gold

By CAR CARMEN RODG ERS Staff Writer Writ

REMEMBERING MLK Day with

City celebrates MLK

2

Thurlow Dam with the Àood gates open after recent Àooding in the Tallass ee area. The dam was one of many included in the infrastructure report card.

CCommunity band ttogether, forms s nneighborhood watch

Recently, Jame Rece and Ric Rickey Jones s Martin, Wanda Jones decided in Tallassee and surroundinto be proactive have for g areas formed the Tallassee Neigh . They Watch Grou G p. The borhood ular meeti meet ngs wheregroup will hold regcommuni unity are welcomembers of the three said said they hope me to join. The spread and and the sayin the initiative will g “see some See NEIGHBORH thing, OOD • Page 2

IMMIGRANTS

GREATER TALLAS

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frastructure

By COREY ARWO OD Staff Writer

NO PLACE TO

en teaches participants easyto-learn techniques

a march and ceremon y

By COREY ARWO OD Staff Writer Blalock, along A number of Jimmy Rodg with Police Chief Tallassee churc have once again the Tallassee ers and members of hes combined effort organize the are expected Police Department s to to be in attend King Jr. Day annual Martin Luther well. ance, as prominent citycelebration and both “It’s just strictl y a memorilocal religious officials as well as al march in memory of to speak and leaders are expected and the contr Dr. King attend. The cerem to mankind. ibution that he made It’s march at 10 ony will begin with a across the count a celebration all a.m. Jan. 18 ry so we decid to start at First that is set here in the ed city Unite of Tallassee d Methodist Church in Tallas would come that we one mile down see and span about Blalock, city together,” said Charles end at 48 Log Gilmer Parkway and also master council member and Circle. of ceremonies Mayor Bobb MLK Day for the event speak and councy Payne is slated to This will be . il member Charl about the seven es th See MLK • Page 2

By COREY ARWO OD Staff Writer Rick Golde instructor and n, self-defense cours e director of department the recreation , could use thesaid he thought anyon e he developed easy-to-learn techniques for the self-d efense classes set to begin in the next week or so. With a chop to the throat, a gouge in the eyes and a knee in the groin to a “body-oppo nent bag,” played one Golden dismetho would-be attack d to incapacitate any Registratio er. classes that n is now open for the are scheduled to meet for an See DEFENSE • Page 2

In Print & Online! See WAREHOUSE • Page 2

Legislators sample road and bridge issues in Elmore and Autauga

By JOHN PEELER Managing Editor

LOCAL, PG.

10 Learning Tree s Boots and Bow Ties fundraise r set for Feb .5

The Tallassee Tribune Alabama in

ified for that year; whether Harrison may legally be an independent candidate; whether Harrison’s name should appear on the election ballot in the event he supplies the requisite independent-candidate petition and whether any votes cast for him if his name is placed on the general-election ballot, should be counted. Should Harrison be required to present an independent-candidate petition, the petition would have to contain not less that 625 valid signatures of registered See COURTS Page 2

By COREY ARWOOD ARWOOD Staff Writer Writer

Kevin Taylor years, but now working on It has been nine de students began of Richard Wayne e Barrett’s sixth-gra app among 1,200 family members e. It was the top iving break, Cheyann peace. s Adams can be at Sheriff Bill Franklin Innovative App Challeng tablets for each of the student Just before the Thanksg By KEVIN TAYLOR to enter in the Verizon well as new Elmore County a $5,000 grant as developing an app Copy Editor ent of forensic earning the school in said the state departm entries in the state his office earlier d contacte A Marbury High sciences who participated. ly identify Adams, School teacher wasand the week to positive body and skeletal y arrested Thursda whose decomposed near Possum Trot count charged with one ee remains were found lle community of a school employ act Road in the Deatsvi 2009. 25, engaging in a sexual Feb. g Adams’ remains with a student, accordin At the time when yards from 40 to were found about Jordan, forensic Millbrook the banks of Lake identify the Police sciences could not Their idea was an the top Challenge. was Chief P.K. remains. Innovative App award-winner. It entries in skull was up Johnson. Franklin said Adams’University and The students came app among 1,200 school a By KEVIN TAYLOR State na the “Money earn Louisia app Brian to to the Editor sent with the state Copy ity of North Texas. well as new ment For Me and J. Wesley, later to the Universd and put into the $5,000 grant as Holtville Manage of the stuA group of seven 30, of DNA was retrieve You.” tablets for each ated. is cker, Index System. Middle School students Millbrook who particip “We have a goal-tra Combined DNA and were able dents addition an to function hoping to raise was “They got a hit “I was on my way games, a holiday Wesley school the remains,” Mrs. tips for saving and al $15,000 for their arrested to positively identify school when I got designing a to offer g money issues then contacted his I was almost after collectively in the Franklin said. “We avoidin Barrett’s email. app. circuit it,” team the holinew smartphone Elmore County relatives.” before and after in tears when I read said. y in the Verbena a jingle Just before the clerk’s office Thursda Adams was from County, days. We also haveHMS stumember Hope Nelson is in 2 Thanksgiving break Wetumpka. community in Chilton Now their app idea national for the app,” said . “We as a s sixthSee REMAINS • Page Wesley is listed on to win the Cheyanne Barrett’ Brooke Carrico dent contenti at and 2 look kid grade students beganing an social studies teacher g See HOLTVILLE • Page made the app to working on developVerizon Marbury High, accordin adult-friendly.” . app to enter in the to the school’s website 2 See ARREST • Page

Reeltown narrows coa ch search down to top five candidates, Pg. 11

Vol. 27, No. 4

Restauran Restaurant Restau rantt aimss high aim high g with with farm farm to plate pla te con concep cep concept A small restaurant restaurant opened opened in Eclectic Eclectic this week week run by a farming family family with a vision local food into into a loca to turn local local movement of of farm to table dining. For now, Farm Farm Boyz Eatery Eate Eate serves lunch, lunch, breakfast breakfast and primarily as operates as and a bakery and café from a.m.-2 6:30 a.m.-2 Monday p.m. Monday through Friday. But if the plans of Whitehill Farm Boyz’ Kevin owner, Kevin it would Whitehill, pan out it what he eventually serve, what called, farm dinners. farm to table table dinners Located in the corner corner sho shop Trustmark just down from Trustmark Kowaliga Road Road in Bank on Kowaliga Eclectic, Farm Farm downtown Eclectic, operates as a working working Boyz operates kitchen and and a base of of operations for projects Whitehill has in mind mind for the community. His restaurant restaurant is focused focused mostly on baked goods. goods. Whitehill said he tries tries to use

REPLACING A LEGEND

Grapplers move to 20-1, defeat Stanhope Elmore.

Probate Prob ate judg judge seeks clarification from Circuit Court on eligibility of independent candidates

ered Remains originally discov near Possum Trot Road

Wesley charged with having sex with a student

The

By JOHN PEELER PEELER Editor Managing Editor

that Alabama Supreme Court a ministerial probate judges have marriage any duty not to issue the Alabama to license contrary e Amendment Sanctity of Marriag on Marriage Protecti or the Alabama and effect.” force full Act remain in probate judges With that, some order, but not have ignored Moore’s 2 See MARRIAGE • Page

Human remains identified from 2009 discovery

Marbury teacher arrested on sex charges

SPORTS PAGE 12

Page 11

Will Wi ll ccur current ur superintendent be on ballot?

ERALD.COM THEWETUMPKAH

No marriag

Page 12

TheWetumpkaHerald.com TheWetumpkaHerald.co TheWetumpk aHerald.com m

Moore law challenged by Same-sex marriage e licenses to be issued out of Elmore County

Wetumpka, AL 36092

Pet of the Week: Sally

Ecclectic Observer Page 4 Pag

VOL. 11, NO. 2

• JANUARY 9-10, SATURDAY-SUNDAY

Sports: Lady Panthers trounce Tigers

Opinion: State Opinion: State general gen fund woes will surf surface in new new session. sessi sessi

Carmen Rodger What will be a s cov d bus covere shelter for the/ The Tribune of Jones Mobile Mobile Home children H Park, was the Ricky Jones. Jones. Jones brainchild Jone had this built for the neighb of hood and encou eencour ncoura rag ages org others to follow suit.

Four TTPD officer s

By CARMEN RODGER ERS Staff Writer Writer

Contributed / The Observer

Senator Clyde Chambliss and Representative Mike Holmes listen to Elmore County Engineer Richie Beyer brief the two during the Autauga and Elmore counties road tour. The tour was part of the DRIVE Alabama campaign.

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MAY 2016 • Page B3

WETUMPKA HIGH SCHOOL Class of 2016

Abner, Anthony David Abrams, Jesse Colton Adam, Max Jefferson Albritton, Sarah Alexandra Allen, Erica Adell Allen, Robert Clausselle III Allen, Timothy Scott Allen, Tykeria Danielle Aloria, Ernald Jules Gamboa Anderson, Whitney Morgan Arnette, Christina Faith Ballenger, Wynston Brady Banker, Zena Marie Garcia Barrett, Lane Matthew Beck, Deshaunna Monique Belew, Lydia Ruth Benjamin, Nicholas Evan Benson, Donovan Mikal Benton, Hannah Kellsie Berrey, Katelyn Nicole Bethea, Zephaniah Aziz Bills, Monesha Ikeya Boddie, Jonathon Taylor Bohannon, Ashton Rebekah Borden, Zachary David Bowden, Ian Anders Boyd, Samantha Audrey Bozeman, Brooke Ashley Bray, Arvid Onvie Brinkman, Madison Elizabeth Brooks, Lacandrea Rukesse Brown, Zachary Matthew Brown, Zoe Alexandra Bryant, Vada Nicole Burgess, Ariel Reid Bush, Erica Suzanne Butler, Samantha Brett Buycks, Amana Kierria Caldwell, Mack Iv Calloway, Lynikqua Trinae Campbell, Marissa Kay Cannon, Brooke Lynn Carswell, Katelyn Elizabeth Cater, Andrea Lynn Chance, Emily Ann Chandler, Hunter Keith Chism, Torii Jhanice Clark, Kailee Alyssa Clark, Krysta Nicole Clay, Christina Noel Clayton, Brant Andrew Clifton, Kelly Noelle Colley, Morgan Brooke Collier, Jason Lucas Conley, Sierra Christine Alexandria Cook, Alondria Kay Cotton, Antoine Marquese Cox, Sydney Olivia Crockett, Ryan Thompson Cullars, Jedd Wylee Davis, Jacynthia Latrice Davis, Keyundra Nacole

Davis, Kinsley Kayellen Deberry, Jordan Demetrius Dennis, Brandon Lee Dennis, Lauren Taylor Dick, Jaiden Richard Digmon, William Michael Donaldson, Zachary Ty Donovan, Hannah Elizabeth Dorsey, Alexis Nancy Om Duplain, Amanda Jayne Elizabeth East, Taylor Benson Edwards, Alexis Monique Edwards, Triston Turner Esco, Leann Christine Fabel, Megan Quinn Ferguson, Haleigh Rose Finley, Austin Blake Firman, Jacob Daniel Fitzpatrick, Milek Raheem Floyd, Keyshawn Cornelius Forbus, Tabitha Nicole Forks, Nicholas Gage Fournier, Alexis Lee Gaines, Ashley Renae Gallops, Jaret Dayton Vincent George, Antonio Deron Jr George, Chalandra Leshawn George, Hayden Faith George, Houston Oneil George, Jetton Pearell George, Martevion Detes Gilbert, Stacelyn Jnera Gottlieb, Katie Nicole Thomas Graham, Vershone Xavier Grant, Brandon Alexander Grant, Cynthia Kay Gray, Anna Page Green, Kaylee Dianne Greene, Riley Ann Griffin, William Tyrone Jr Gulsby, Dakota Lee Gunter, Emma Clai Guthrie, Ashlee Nicole Haisten, Caroline Mackenzie Hale, Tejarvis Larod Hamon, Emily Nastya Hayes, Deondra Jamal Herring, Cody Edward Hill, Leah Caitlin Hines, Jared Conner Hitson, Taylor Brooke Hogan, Desarae Denise Hollenquest, Deja Tawanakia Hollenquest, Paisley Trenae Hollenquest, Taja Shurwanakia Hollis, Hana Lynsey Holloway, Courtland Dabraun Holmes, Veronica Nicole Hopkins, Tedrick Robert Horn, Jesse Aaron Hughes, Chandler Lee Hughes, Colton Riley

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Hughes, Elijah Mason Humphrey, Tylous Latrell Jr Hutchinson, Mariah Simone Hutsler, Patrick Mabson Hyatt, Jacob Griffin Ingram, Payton Victoria Jackson, Monijah Detoria Jackson,Thomasiana Blantinisha Jalovec, Margaret Pearl James, Hannah Jordan Jarman, Victoria Grace Jenkins, Kaylee Grace Johnson, Alfonzo Leon Johnson, Michael Kade Jones, Jayona Alise Keithahn, Taylor Vale Kennedy, Sabrinalee Jane Kilano, Casi Lee Knight, Arial Denise Knuckles, Benjamin Timothy Lambeth, John Dalton Lambros, Mary Elizabeth Lavigne, Austin Michael Lawrence, Kaitlyn Leigh Leonard, Braxton Glenn Leonard, Trevor Dustin Levert, Andrew Tyler Lewis, Charles Ja Shon Lewis, Cody Allen Licari, Karen Celeste Littlefield, Richard Kyler Lucas, Stewart Christian Mac Cartney, Kaitlyn Nicole Maddox, Cory Andrew Maddox, Phillip William Jr Mantell, Andrew Thomas Markonios, Stavros Kyriakos Marshall, Xavier Rashad McCall, Shaquara Tityonna McCord, Carli Evan McDaniel, Sara Holly McKethern, Donald Wayne III McNeil, Crystal Lynne Mendes, Autumn Joy Mendoza, Rodrigo Alejandro Miller, Ashley Nicole Miller, Thomas Wayne Moore, Dalton Myles Morence, Anthony Christopher Murchison, Michael Harris Myrick, Allie Elizabeth Neely, Tyeisha Zuna Noel, Jordan Keith Oliver, William Patrick Osborne, Kamille Olivia Ott, William Bradley Owings, Rachel Lynn Parmer, Braxton Alan Parmer, Brennen Keith Paschal, Derrick Absalom II Passmore, Deanna Shea Phillips, Shyanne Nikita

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Page B4 • MAY 2016

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THE WETUMPKA HERALD

STANHOPE ELMORE HIGH SCHOOL Class of 2016

Tiarra S. Abram Grissel A. Agosto Yanil A. Agosto Madison K. Albright Angel A. Allen Sydney M. Alringer Destinee T. Anderson Dana M. Baker Clifton L. Ball, Jr. Lonese C. Barnes Michael B. Barnett Jacobia N. Bates T’Corey A. Bell Haley M. Bellefleur Juliet J. Bello Caitlin N. Bilodeau Heath L. Bowden Kriston C. Boysen Joseph R. Brantley Katelin R. Brassfield Devon W. Bringham Jakereia S. Brown Shatavia K. Brown Kirby R. Brown, Jr. Tiffany M.Brownfield,. Casey K. Brumbeloe RayAnn J. Bullock Jackson L. Burkhead Jaida S. Bush Marcus A. Bush Sarah K. Bush Randy W. Byczek Erika L. Byler Lori L. Carnes Analyssa T. Carr Andrew Carr Jorge Carrillo-Vazquez Donell Carter, II Taylor A. Causey Chyna M. Cayson Rebecca A. Ceman Bailey A. Chancey Deidre D. Chapman Alandria K. Chappell Mikayla C. Chappell Erik J. Chavez Deanthony D. Coleman Breanna L. Cooper Nicholas R. Coppa Nicholas A. Cowan Alisha M. Crenshaw Jordan P. Daniels Cheyenne E. Davis Christopher M. Davis Hunter A. Davis David W. Davis, Jr. Kenneth Davis, Jr. Mackenzie L. Dean Bailee E. Dixon Mary N. Dolman Halyn N. Dorman Ashton R. Durbin

Roy W. Durham III Kyle S. Eaddy Cole A. Easterwood Ken’Darius C. Edwards Justin T. Elkins Jakayla M. Ellis Jemeria J. England Jalisa J. Evans Sydney L. Fields Imani M. Fifer Casidee N. Fisher Kheilah J. Flores Anastasia G. Foshee Jonathan P. Foshee J’Marious L. Foster Amber L. Fritts Sophia A. Gancayco Joshua A. Garcia-Duarte Jodi E. Garrette Akalyn D. Garvin Tyson N. Gary Tykievious D. Gibbons Meghan M. Glaze Markia L.Graham Malyssa K. Green Dasia A. Greer Judah J. Griffin Eboni L. Grooms Wanda C. Guidry Ethan A. Gunn Jenna E. Hale Heideahya Y. Hall Kurticia D. Hall Zachary A. Harder Kyle D. Hardy Takeria T. Hardy Brandon A. Harris Dijon L. Harris Fernandez L. Harris Ryan A. Harris Julius L. Harrison III Garrett J. Hartzog Stephen W. Hayes Brianna N. Henderson Brandi L. Henley Maria G. Hernandez Malik D. Hibley Jazlynn I. Hill Kirsten N. Houston Kevarius J. Howard David T. Hudson Michelle L. Hughes Olivia C. Hughes Jamaya M. Hunt Abigale O. Irwin A’leeyah J. Jackson Nakia J. Jenkins Teniqua S. Johnson Waderrius D. Johnson Camiyah B. Jones Alden G. Keeble Noah A. Key

Stephen C. Kimble Miller J. King Akevious T. Knight Rasheed Kochi Manuel D. Ledezma Akeisha R. Lewis Kiatavious R. Lewis Trenton C. Lewis Brianna N. Lincoln Chad W. Livingston Krystal C. Lloyd Richard M. Logeman Leemika C. Long Kenya O. Lucas, Jr. Apryl L. Luckett Josiah T. Lyons Jarvis A. Manora Ethan R. Maraman Tywon R. Martin D’Maria A. Matthews Lathan A. May Niguel M. McCord Avery K. McCray Andrew B. McDaniel Tyrell M. McIntosh DeAndre J. McKay Jurmorris M. McMillon Q’Darius O. Melton Deanna L. Meredith Jennifer M. Meredith Broderick D. Milford, Jr. Vestevia N. Milner Wil B. Milner Shelby L. Mims Barry L. Mitchell Nastaysha S. Moore Stephen J. Moore Zachary A. Moore Floyd D. Morris, Jr. Caroline A. Mullins Ty D. Naquin Carl J. Nichols III Cole A. O’Brian Brenden T. O’Keefe Chankilttra D. Osborne Todd D. Owens Markell D. Parker Shaquarius T. Parks Bethany L. Pate Stephanie M. Perdue Shanautica L. Pettaway Keanna N. Phelps Makenzie N. Powell Samantha L. Prather Hannah L. Presciti Hayley M. Presciti Haylie S. Ramsey Tyrone P. Rawls, Jr. Michaela D. Reeves Katya M. Reyes Kerstie E. Reynolds Tyler R. Rhodes

Summer R. Richardson Martin L. Rigsby, Jr. Donald L. Riley Sovann C. Robinson Jacob S. Royal Robert J. Sarasa Jaida B. Sellers Patrick J. Shelton Michael G. Simmons Adam D. Smith Aubrey L. Smith Jaterrica A. Smith Logan D. Smith Yarnell N. Smith Bennie L. Smith, Jr. Ja’Myron L. Smoke Alnetria B. Stallworth Meleia D. Stephens Phillip A. Stephens Stormy D. Stephens Caleb O. Stinchcomb Ta’Roshua Z. Stokes Derek R. Stoudemire Curtis A. Stout Jocelyne F. Stout Aubrey K. Strange Christopher J. Taylor Jackson W. Teal Savannah C. Teal Samantha T. Thach McKenna A. Tharpe Alexus D. Thomas Eryka S. Thomas Marilyn C. Thomas Shastayzia T. Thomas Courtney D. Thompson Marquetta Q. Thrasher Cynthia N. Toney Eric V. Tran Sarah K. Turner Kison P. Tymes Sharon N. Utter Kristen H. Vice Gerica D. Walker Victoria N. Ward Erick J. Washington Destiny T. Weatherly Daria L. Weaver Isaiah K. White Kristina M. Whitehurst Natalia M. Whitted Fantashia S. Wilkes Kaylee J. Wilkes Tamara A. Williams Kevin E. Williams, Jr Steve Williams, Jr. Benjamin J. Winborn Dalton W. Winslett Alexis D. Wright Lamaya E. Zeigler

THE WETUMPKA HERALD

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

MAY 2016 • Page B5

ELMORE COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL Class of 2016

Adams, Matthew Joseph Alexander, Wesley Blake Ansley, Ebony Damionique Arledge, Caleb Alexander Blakely, Taylor Ann Blakley, Jeffrey Edward Bolton, Haley Marie Boothe, Corey Ryan Boshell, Ashley Paige Boswell, Austin Wayne Brooks, Sydney Leigh Brown, Elissa Tiara Brown, Jackie Ray Bullock, Davis Allen Burrows, Nathan Micheal Capell, Anthony Hunter Clark, Kane Leon Cobb, Thomas Elijah Cook, Kentavious Oneal Cramer, Aubrey Taylor Darnell, Shannon Keith Dasher, Preston Lee Davis, Geoffrey Logan Dempsey, Autumn Taylor Dempsey, Dominic Andrew Dowis, Zachary William Eller, Sydney Madison

Fleming, Keeley B Floyd, Mikell Aveon Funderburk, Shelby Lynn Garrett, Sabrina Renae George, Allison Grace Hall, Taylor Alexandria Harris, Sidney Lynn Hastings, Dylan Lee Heisler, Courtney Elise Helms, Sarah Haley Hobbs, Kayla Kristine Houlton, Chasley Ann Howell, Maribeth Peyton James, Devin Tyler Jarvis, Kayla Rene Jasper, Johnathan Devone Jasper, Johnnie Deshaun Jaye, Jordan Isaiah Jowers, Railey Shayne Kelley, Aaron Lee Kendrick, Destanie Danyelle Kendrick, Nicole Denise Kidd, Chloe Rae Knight, Levi Jordan Lantz, Amber Dawn Leonard, Lexas Brianna Leonard, Markel Keshone

Machado, Brandon Michael Mann, Aaron Haydon Martin, Kirkland Thomas MCcord, Laura Grace McDonald, Kayla Michele McGinty, Kevin Michael Meadows, Wesley Bryant Milam, Katie Michelle Miller, Morgan Kileigh Moore, Kate Ashley Moyers, Chloe Danyel Nichols, Kyra Renee Olds, Jordan Layne Palmore, Terrance Lamond Patrick, Destiny Corese Porter, Chelsie Marie Powell, Sam Leland Rawls, Travis Makale Rawls, Tristian Malik Rogers, Gregory O’Neal Jr. Russell, Marsaya Denise Ryals, Abbigail Lauraine Self, Alexander Perry Settles, Caitlin Faith Leonard Settles, Malik O Smith, Devlin Shay Smith, Mary Olivia

Stanberry, Justice Dianne Stilen, Jamee Raylynn Strouse Haney, Dylan Levi Studdard, Casey Jared Taunton, Tayler Nicole Taylor, William Nathan Thomas, Timothy Chase Thornton, Bryclynn Jade Thornton, Timothy Charles Vetter, Amber Diane Ward, Kodie Lynn Whetstone, Kent Mcrae Williams, Joshua Stephen Willis, Brandi Renee Wilson, Jordan William Wilson, Joshua William Wood, David Samuel Wynn, Bridge Garland

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PLEASE JOIN IN CELEBRATING HER GRADUATION! THURSDAY, MAY 19, 2016 AT 7:00 P.M. ELMORE COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL BURT HAYNIE FIELD ECLECTIC, ALABAMA

Page B6 • MAY 2016

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THE WETUMPKA HERALD

VICTORY BAPTIST SCHOOL Class of 2016

The Victory Baptist 2016 Graduates are, standing from left, Mason Byrd, Michael Haynes, Alex Watters, Taylor McQueen and Zoran Holley. Seated from left are Andy Cole, Shelby Murphree, Ally Weyant, Katelyn Groff, Alissa Obermeyer, Ethan Deneve.

NEW LIFE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY Class of 2016

Ethan M. Arnold Charles “Chase” Timothy Boyer Cyan M. Carroll Bonnie B. Cooper John R. Durden Whitney A. Edgeworth

Ethan G. Hasselbring Caleb D. Jones Joshua D. Jones Alexis J. “Lexie Jo” Mantay Alana S. Nix Brian D. Owings

Isabella L. “Bella” Palmer Brandon L. Pate Ashlyn G. Priester Nakeli R. Robbins Stuart O. Slemp Chloe Z. Snow

Michael B. Talley James P. “Jay” Wainwright Hunter Ward Kamryn A. Warren Julianne C. Wilkes

THE WETUMPKA HERALD

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MAY 2016 • Page B7

EDGEWOOD ACADEMY Class of 2016

Wesley Scott Adkins Austin Andrew Rainer Barnett Bella Marisa Bertarelli Christina Nicole Bush Noah Slayton Eller Emilee Jordan Ellis

Reginald Rydal Gee II Thomas Daniel Green Lauren Landon Hethcox Hunter O’Quinn Hutcherson John Paul Lee III Kelvin Lucky Oyovwi

Katie Leann Mack Samantha Lynn Robbins Jordan James Roberts Nathan Larry Robert Rourke Alyssa Morgan Skinner Christian Joel Smith

Emily Nicole Strickland Michael Roderick Taylor Dee Aubrey White

TALLASSEE HIGH SCHOOL Class of 2016

Benton, Kennedy Bradley, Olin Brooks Tevin Brown, Cedrick Brown, De’ante Brown, Kaleiah Bush , Sarah Clark, Dylan Clark, Jillian Clayton, Austin Clem, Bailey Covington, Madelir Crawford Caitlin Crayton Shakyra Davidson, Dylan Davidson, Joel Davis, Austin Davis, Brittney Dicks, Taylor Dillard, Brittney Durham, Nicholas Emfinger, Micah Evans, Casey Floyd Zaesha Fraley, Kevin Frazier Aliyah Freeman Randari Fulmer Joseph Fulmer Michael Galloway William

Garrett Rainee Gates, Eric Glass, David Golden Caleb Goodman Chase Goth Connor Green, Harmony Griffies William Hagans, Kegan Hale, Grayson Hamilton, Cody Hamilton, Leighton Hathcock, Angela Hathcock, Dylan Hathorn, Charlcie Heard, Alfred Henderson, Nathan Holmes, James Hooks, Avery Hooks, Rondarian Horn, Tyson Hornsby, Hannah Hunter, Chelsea Hyde, Britney Johnson, Malik Jones, Devon Jones, Kenyetta Jones, Tatum Justiss, Clayton Kennebrew, Felix

Kennebrew, Ladreamas Kirk, Marresha Kirt, Irmon Ko, Helen Lacey, Margaret Love, Diamond Lyles, Kaytrianna Lynch, Robert Lyons, Christopher Mann, Madison Manning, Dustin Manningh, Benjamin Martinez, Magaly McKenzie, Jhermetia Melton, Dalton Miller, Daniel Moncrief, Connor Moseley, Mallory Murphy, Nytillia Neal, Ariel Nelson, Emily Noah, Jeremy Norris, Marilyn Peaks, Alexis Potts, Jared Pugh, Madison Renfroe, Adam Rhodes, Rachel Rhodes Ryan Rivers, Zeryes

Robinson Wendell Rodgers Sarah Schwab, Loren Selmon, Natasha Shipman, Nolen Shorter, Narada Skipper, Kobe SmithSamuel Stevenson, Emily Stewart, Joseph Strickland, Merenda Tatum, Shikeria Taylor, Cody Thomas, Jason Thomas, Moses Thornton, Tayler Tucker, Heidi Turner, Steven Tyndall, Alec Walsh, Yolanda Webster, Bailey Webster, Jordan Webster, Kyndall Williams, Caitlin Jacob, Wisener Dajah, Woods

Page B8 • MAY 2016

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

THE WETUMPKA HERALD

FROM THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES & FACULTY OF EDGEWOOD ACADEMY

Wesley Scott Adkins

Austin Andrew Rainer Barnett

Bella Marisa Bertarelli

Christina Nicole Bush

Noah Slayton Eller

Emilee Jordan Ellis

Reginald Rydal Gee II

Thomas Daniel Green

Lauren Landon Hethcox

Hunter O’Quinn Hutcherson

John Paul Lee, III

Kelvin Lucky Oyovwi

Katie Leann Mack

Samantha Lynn Robbins

Jordan James Roberts

Nathan Larry Robert Rourke

Alyssa Morgan Skinner

Christian Joel Smith

Congratulations to the Edgewood Academy Class of 2016 We wish you all the best on Graduation Day and great success in your future endeavors!

2016 SCHOLARSHIPS Emily Nicole Strickland

Michael Roderick Taylor

Dee Aubrey White

WESLEY ADKINS – Freshman Leadership Scholarship $2,000.00, War Hawk Scholarship $16,000.00, Huntingdon College - Spirit of Huntingdon $54,000.00, Spring Hill College Portier Leadership Award $100,000.00, Exchange Club of Wetumpka $100.00 AUSTIN BARNETT – Huntingdon College - Spirit of Huntingdon $54,000.00 CHRISTINA BUSH – Central Alabama Community College $12,000.00 NOAH ELLER – Lawson State Community College $5904.00 EMILEE ELLIS – University of Alabama Presidential Scholarship $40,680.00, HES Academic Achievement Award University of Alabama $4,000.00, Alumni Scholar University of Alabama $4,000.00, the University of Mississippi $50,000.00, Auburn University $2,000.00, Shelton State Community College $24,720.00, Spring Hill College $112,000.00, Rotary Club $500.00, Optimist Club $100.00, Exchange Club $1000.00, Kings College New York $60,000.00, Joe Sewell Athletic Award $1000.00 PTSO Scholarship $1000.00 REGINALD GEE – Alabama State $54,000.00, Delta State $24,048.00 DANIEL GREEN – Huntingdon River Region Scholarship $48,000.00 LAUREN HETHCOX – AUM Recognition Scholarship $4,000.00, Huntingdon College Spirit of Huntingdon Award $54,000.00, Union University Dean’s Scholarship $8,000.00, Maxx4Kids Scholarship $2500.00, Spring Hill College $76,000.00 JP LEE – ASCE $1000.00, AFCEA $2500.00, Wetumpka Rotary Club $250.00, Trinity Episcopal $100.00

GRAND TOTAL AMOUNT AMOUNT:: $2,712,280.00 KATIE MACK – Auburn University Montgomery $8,000.00, Troy University $10,600.00, Huntingdon College $56,000.00 SAMANTHA ROBBINS – Auburn University of Montgomery Achievement Scholarship $8,000.00, University of West Alabama Trustee Honors Award, Trustee Leadership Scholarship and Superior Student Scholarships in the amount of $36,000.00, University of Alabama at Birmingham Breakthrough Scholarship $12,000.00 JORDAN ROBERTS – Huntingdon College/ALFA Partnership Scholarship $54,000.00, Cain’s Chapel United Methodist Scholarship $500.00 NATHAN ROURKE – Simon Fraser University $56,000.00, Alabama A&M $32,000.00, Fort Scott College $15,400.00 ALYSSA SKINNER – Huntingdon College - President AA Lipscomb Scholarship $56,000.00

CHRISTIAN SMITH – Lawson State Community College $8856.00 EMILY STRICKLAND – Huntingdon College $54,000.00, UAB $32,000.00, Faulkner University $12,000.00, Troy University $2000.00, Auburn University Montgomery $32,000.00, Rotary Club $250.00 MICHAEL TAYLOR – Lawson State Community College $11,808.00 DEE WHITE – Huntingdon College Spirit of Huntingdon $54,000.00, Cain’s Chapel United Methodist $500.00

KELVIN LUCKY – Troy University $45,136.00, Central Florida $127,032.00, South Florida $63,284.00, Purdue $74,736.00, Texas $89,440.00, UCLA $115,264.00, Arkansas State $62,000.00, Miami $182,400.00, Ohio State $156,124.00, Ball State $137,452.00, North Carolina State $52,796.00, Vanderbilt $258,616.00

The Edgewood Academy Board of Trustees and Faculty are pleased to announce Commencement Exercises for the Class of 2016. Graduation will be held May 19 at 7:00 p.m. at Frazer Church in Montgomery. The speaker will be Todd Gerelds, author of Woodlawn. The Valedictorian for the Class of 2016 is Emilee Ellis. Emilee plans on attending the University of Alabama where she will major in Otolaryngology. The Salutatorian for the Class of 2016 is John Paul Lee, III. JP plans on attending Auburn University where he will major in engineering.