Jan 21, 2016 Eclectic Observer

Sports: BTW trips up Elmore County

Opinion: A day I’ll never forget.

Pet of the Week: Gypsy

Eclectic Observer Page 4

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The

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THURSDAY • JANUARY 21, 2016

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

Vol. 27, No. 3

Madix expands office

Expansion to contribute 23 new jobs to the workforce

By CARMEN RODGERS Staff Writer

It is official; Madix will soon break ground on an expansion that will bring 23 new employment opportunities to the area. Madix proposed the expansion last year and quickly realized there was more work involved than expected.

The main waterline from the close by water tower ran directly under the site of the purposed expansion.

The expansion would involve moving water lines, which now runs under the purposed expansion.

Currently, there is an iron potable water main that will require rerouting to facilitate building a 140,000 square feet manufacturing

facility. The new manufacturing facility cannot be built above an existing potable water line because of potential operation and maintenance issues.

The main, which is 18 years old, comes directly out of the water tank located on Claude rd. This See MADIX • Page 2

Carmen Rodgers / The Observer

Madix in Eclectic will soon break ground on an expansion that will add an additional 23 jobs to the workforce, thanks to the Elmore County Economic Develop Authority.

‘Abandoned Rural America’ exhibit open

Relay for Life kicks off Jan. 23

By JOHN PEELER Managing Editor

Wetumpka’s Kelly Fitzpatrick Memorial Gallery is hosting an exhibition located on the second floor of the City of Wetumpka Administrative Building through April 22 which contains paintings, sculptures, and photographs from many artists that will take you back in time before the structures and scenes of yesteryear disappeared.

Graphic designer, Peter Muzyka, who grew up on a farm in Pennsylvania and now lives in Georgia, came up with the idea, and this will be the first time the exhibit will be seen in Alabama.

“The ARA team is very excited about our Alabama premiere,” he said in a release.

“We are pleased to be invited, and we’ve enjoyed visiting the area to see and paint abandoned farm scenes in Central Alabama.”

Local artists, such as Theresa Wayne of Wetumpka, Shirley Essco of Deatsville, Mack Gothard of Clanton and others, will have work displayed during the exhibition.

If you’ve forgotten what yesteryear’s American small family farm looks like, visit The Kelly Fitzpatrick Memorial Gallery. Admission is free and open to the public.

Today’s

Weather

57 50 High

Low

FRIDAY: HIGH 53 LOW 30

Team Captain training the first of many stages in event

By JOHN PEELER Managing Editor

Carmen Rodgers / The Observer

Mayor Gary Davenport delivers a key to city to Mary Atkins Sanders during her 100th birthday party Saturday at the Red Hill Community Center.

Born & raised Eclectic Lifelong Eclectic resident hits century mark

By CARMEN RODGERS Staff Writer

Mary Drue Atkins celebrated her 100th birthday Saturday at the Red Hill Community Center,.

Atkins was born and raised in the Eclectic area where she has lived her entire life. The community center was overflowing with friends, family and loved ones all to honor her.

Atkins comes from a large family. She was the fourth born child, with three sisters and five brothers. Atkins said took are her younger siblings after her mother went to work and she

Every year millions loose their lives in the battle against cancer and every year millions help fight the battle against cancer through Relay for Life events across the country.

Elmore County begins its annual fundraising battle against cancer with a Millbrook Relay for Life Kickoff at 6 p.m. Jan. 26 at the Millbrook Civic Center and two days later in Wetumpka at 6 p.m. at the Wetumpka Civic Center with the Battle of the Bands.

The purpose of both events is to raise community awareness of the programs and services offered by the American Cancer Society, said Amber Voss, community manager for

would often work in the cotton fields with her father.

Today, Atkins has a large family of her own and married her husband, James Elzie Sanders, Dec. 13, 1933. Together they had four children, nine grandchildren and fifteen great grandchildren. Not only did she help raise her siblings, she raised her own children, as well as several children in her family.

When asked what her key to longevity has been, Atkins response was simple.

See 100 • Page 2

See RELAY Page 2

ECHS students nominated for achievements

By COREY ARWOOD Staff Writer

Two students from Elmore County High Sschool were the recipients of this year’s Elmore County Student Rising Star awards at the Martin Luther King Day ceremony held in the Wetumpka Civic center on Monday.

The students, seniors at Elmore County High School, were acknowledged for their academic and athletic achievements.

Hannah Traylor was awarded for her academic accomplishments, and Neal Cook for his high school athletic career.

Traylor, 16, received the academic award title.

When asked how she

felt about the award, Traylor appeared both appreciative and humble about her accomplishments.

“I think it’s a great honor to be nominated for my academic achievements, it’s just a like a really good honor to do that because not many people get that opportunity,” Traylor said.

Some of those accomplishments, Traylor said, consisted of maintaining her 4.14 GPA, scoring a 26 on the ACT and making straight A’s in the AP and Honors courses she had taken throughout high school.

Athletics are also a major interest of Traylor’s. She said she played as a point guard on the ECHS volleyball team and had played since the seventh See ACHIEVEMENTS • Page 2

Contributed / The Observer

Hannah Traylor was one of two Elmore County High School students to receive the Elmore County Student Rising Star awards at the Martin Luther King Day ceremony in Wetumpka. Traylor received the award as a result of her academic accomplishments. Neal Cook of Elmore County High School was one of two ECHS students to be awarded the Elmore County Student Rising Star Award at the Martin Luther King Day ceremony in Wetumpka. Cook was selected for his high school athletic career.

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PAGE 2 • JANUARY 21, 2016

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

Relay

continued from page 1

Relay for Life.

According to its website, Relay for Life got its start in May 1985 when Dr. Gordy Klatt walked and ran for 24 hours around a track in Tacoma, Washington, ultimately raising $27,000 to help the American Cancer Society fight the nation’s biggest health concern cancer. A year later, 340 supporters joined the overnight event. Since those first steps, the Relay For Life movement has grown into a worldwide phenomenon, raising nearly $5 billion to fight cancer.

Voss said volunteers and team captains are needed for this year’s events and there is a team captain’s event being held in Montgomery for those who wish to become team captains.

The team captains training will be from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Jan. 23 at Faulkner University, and Voss said those who want to attend should contact her as soon as possible.

Millbrook and Wetumpka both have kickoff events scheduled on Jan. 26 and Jan. 28, respectively.

Millbrook’s kickoff event will take place in the Millbrook Civic Center

beginning at 6 p.m.

Wetumpka has a big kickoff event planned with a Battle of the Bands beginning at 6 p.m., which will feature local bands.

Voss said relayers, cancer survivors (anyone who has ever been diagnosed with cancer), 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,” she said.

Volunteers from the Elmore County Community are needed to begin planning for this event in Millbrook, Tallassee and Wetumpka, she added.

If you would like to join one of the three Relay For Life events in Elmore County as a volunteer or team participant, call Amber Voss with the American Cancer Society at 334-6128174 or email at amber.voss@cancer. org.

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continued from page 1

“Christ was by my side the whole time,” she said.

Not only was Atkins known for her loving nature, her talent in the kitchen was well received by many.

“My wife is her Aunt,” said Herald Fulford, who married into the Sanders

family 46 years ago.

“Every time I’d come over she would be out at the dairy milking cows.”

Fulford said he still recalls the first meal Atkins cooked for him and his family.

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and fried chicken in an iron skillet,” he said. “She cooked on a wood stove forever.”

Mayor Gary Davenport was also on hand to celebrate Atkins special birthday.

Davenport delivered a moving speech and offered Atkins a key to the city of Eclectic.

“It’s an honor and a pleasure to be here today,” Davenport said. “We appreciate her dedication and service to the Eclectic community as a wife, a mother of four children, a faithful worker and supporter of the Sanders Dairy.”

Davenport also proclaimed that Jan. 16, 2016, will officially be recognized as Mary Atkins Sanders Day.

“Business is Great!”

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THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER

Madix water main is responsible for serving approximately 2,000 Central Elmore Water and Sewer Authority’s customers. While CEWSA owns the waterlines, the town of eclectic owns the industrial park where these lines are to be interchanged. The town, along with engineers from Madix, have come up with a solution in the form of a grant.

After originally applying for the grant, ADECA agreed to offer $10,000 for each new job created.

Because the expansion would generate 23 new positions at Madix, the town of Eclectic was awarded a $230,000 grant to complete the process of moving the waterline so that the expansion can move forward.

This grant is an 80/20 matching grant, meaning the city must fund 20 percent of the total cost.

However, CEWSA has agreed to pay $12,000 as an in-kind donation along with $45,500, which was requested from the Elmore County Commission.

Without a doubt, this grant funding is win-win for the town of Eclectic. Not only will the community benefit from the creation of 23

continued from page 1

new jobs, they will come with no cost burden to the town.

“There’s no cost to the town since the town does not own the waterline” said Gary Davenport, mayor of Eclectic.

The final paperwork for the grant was signed Jan. 12.

“We have signed the letter of conditional commitment this past week,” he said. “That is the contract between us and the state for the grant that they awarded us to move the main waterline.”

Now that the logistics are finalized, the town is eager for work to begin on the expansion to Madix.

“We’re meeting with the building inspector and Madix, the town and CARPDC (Central Alabama Regional Planning and Development Commission) so that we can go ahead and get everything moving in that direction. The engineering work has been done CARPDC has everything’s setup for the administration of the grant. We have meeting this afternoon at 4 to start working on the contractor bids,” Davenport said.

Achievements grade.

She said she also played basketball and was into power lifting, but volleyball was her favorite.

Outside of academics and athletics, Traylor said she was a member of the Key Club, the Beta Club, both the math and English honor societies and the Foreign Language Club.

“It hasn’t always come easy, I’ve struggled, it just takes hard work and dedication and you just have to be very persistent in striving to achieve your goal,” Traylor said.

She said one of the biggest obstacles she had was finding a balance of time to spend with her friends amid school, sports and extracurricular activities.

For the future, Traylor said she was thinking about the medical field.

“The medical filed is always going to be open like we always need doctors and nurses and there’s always going to be sick people that need to be taken care of it’s just a good job outlook,” Traylor said.

She said she thought it would be cool to be an athletic trainer or sports therapist, adding her college career would be based on scholarship availability, but if she had to make a nod she would stick with a school in the area

continued from page 1

Last summer Traylor worked at a local country club and said she was not sure where she would work this summer, but in the meantime she was going to hang out with family and friends as much as she could.

Cook, 17, is a Panthers’ point guard and said that he was leading the ECHS basketball team and the area in assists.

He said he played as a receiver on the football team, and after the basketball season was over he planned on running track.

As for his feelings on winning the award Cook said, “I feel pretty good, because I mean I didn’t expect it.”

Cook said he had always been naturally athletic and sports had come easy to him, and in some way, they were at the core of what he wanted for the future.

As for which he liked to play best, Cook said, “Probably basketball, but I do like football a lot.”

After high school, he said he planned to go to Enterprise State Community College to play basketball.

From there Cook said he wanted to go the University of Florida on a scholarship, play basketball and work towards a career in sports physical therapy.

WHAT DID YOUR VOTE FOR

JAMES “TREY” TAYLOR ACCOMPLISH IN 4 YEARS? * Resurfaced ~80 miles of paved roads; 19 roads in District 2 alone *Put into operation new dirt road resurfacing project with 5 dirt roads resurfaced in District 2 alone *Implemented BLUEPRINT 2020 plan totaling $36 million in road, bridge, and facility improvements including new Emergency Operations Center *Additional $9 million from ALDOT allocated for road and bridge projects *Partnered with St. of Alabama to expand water main to Madix, saving and creating new jobs in Eclectic *Partnered with Tallassee Industrial Bd. to expand GKN, saving jobs and creating new ones *Partnered with Eclectic and Tallassee on road projects within town/city limits including road widening project to Tallassee Elementary School *Allocated $100,000 to Elmore Co. Vol. Firefighter Assoc. to build training facility *Allocated funds to each District 2 school *Implemented new departmental and non-profit organization budget hearings for increased accountability and made open to the public *Began recording Commission mtgs. for improved public access and Commission transparency through Elmore County website *Maintained a balanced county budget entire term

ON MARCH 1ST VOTE TO CONTINUE

*******************PROGRESS******************* RE-ELECT

JAMES “TREY” TAYLOR ELMORE CO. COMMISSIONER DISTRICT 2 Pd.Pol.Adv. By James “Trey” Taylor

The Tallassee Housing Authority is reopening its waiting list for Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV) Program on Tuesday, January 26th through Thursday, January 28th at the Tallassee Recreation Department located at 450 Gilmer Avenue. Only applications will be issued from 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. The HCV Program is a federally funded rental assistance program for low-income families/individuals, the elderly and disabled. The HCV Program provides eligible families an opportunity to rent from a private landlord of their choice within the Tallassee Area. Please call (334) 283-2801 for questions.

THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

JANUARY 21, 2016 • PAGE 3

Hit the trails with Critter Crawl

By STAFF REPORTS The Eclectic Observer

Grab your running shoes and hit the trails for the sixth annual Alabama Nature Center Critter Crawl.

Get your heart pumping this Valentine’s Day weekend with a little exercise and a breath of fresh air on Saturday, Feb. 13.

The Critter Crawl will feature a 5K run along the beautiful trails located at Lanark in Millbrook.

Bring the family and plan to run wild, or you can just crawl.

The Critter Crawl is a 5K that begins at 9 a.m., and takes runners through a portion of the ANC's 5-mile trail system.

There will also be a 1-mile race beginning at 10 a.m. Both races start and finish at the ANC NaturePlex. Shirts are guaranteed for participants registering before Feb. 1.

Pre-registration cost is $25 (5K) or $20 (1 Mile). Day-Of Registration we will add an additional $5. Prizes will be awarded for male and female overall, Masters (40+) and Grand Masters (50+). Also, awards will be given to the top three in each age group.

In addition to the races, there will be music, food, vendors, and a costume contest. Dress your best and run as an Alabama critter. There will be prizes for the favorite costume. Have fun and be creative. Make sure to hang around after the race for a door prize give away and trophy ceremony.

Some parking is available directly in front of the NaturePlex and overflow parking will be in the pavilion meadow.

Please visit www.alabamawildlife.org or call Matt Vines at

334-285-4550 for more information or register online at www. active.com. Participants may pick up their race packets Friday, Feb. 12 1 – 5 p.m. The course will be open that afternoon for individuals who want to cruise the course prior to the race.

The Alabama Nature Center, a hands-on outdoor education facility located at Lanark in Millbrook, Alabama, is a joint project of the Alabama Wildlife Federation and benefactors Isabel and Wiley Hill.

The Lanark property, State Headquarters for the Alabama Wildlife Federation, contains 350 acres of striking forests, fields, streams, wetlands and ponds that are traversed by five miles of trails and boardwalks including a tree top viewing platform. In addition to the trails, boardwalks, and pavilion, the Alabama Nature Center includes the NaturePlex, a 23,000 square foot structural facility that serves as the

Welcome and Education Center.

The facility includes a 120-seat Theater equipped with up to date technology; Hands-on Discovery Hall with wildlife and naturebased displays; Educational Classrooms; Community Room available for meeting use and rental; and a Gift Shop. The NaturePlex can be reserved for school field trips, teacher training workshops, seminars, and other educational programs by contacting the Alabama Wildlife Federation. Interested groups can choose from programs designed by AWF’s staff, or programs can be customized to meet your needs. The grounds at Lanark contain five destinations: AWF Headquarters, Historic Lanark, Lanark Pavilion, ANC and the new NaturePlex.

For more information about the Alabama Nature Center and the Alabama Wildlife Federation, call 334-285-4550 or visit www. alabamawildlife.org.

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

RODNEY GRIFFITH BROKER CELL: 334-207-0666 WEB: www.rodneygrif¿th.com EMAIL: rodneygrif¿th@windstream.net LAKE MARTIN VIEW – 260 South Lands End, 3 bd/2 ba, 1 acre, $135,000.

TALLASSEE – McNEAL STREET, 2 bd/1 ba, close to national guard armory, $55,000.

COMMERCIAL BUSINESS – Hwy. 229 in Red Hill (formerly Red Hill Cottage Restaurant), over 3000 sq. ft. on 3 ACRES, only $99,500.

RIVER HILLS SUBDIVISION – 19 lots, great views of Lake Tallassee, underground utilities, sewage. Prices start at only $20,000. 4 SOLD – 19 remaining.

W. PATTON – Brick, 3 bd/1 ba, new heat pump, hardwood floors, 2 lots, REDUCED $65,000.

ECLECTIC – NEW MOBILE HOME on 1.2 ACRE lot, 3 bd/ 2 ba, flat yard, lg. deck, on Ga. Rd. close to Rushenville Church. $69,000.

2206 HWY. 120 – 2 miles from Reeltown School, brick, 3 bd/2 ba, heat pump, hardwood floors. Beautiful yards, new LD close to Kiwi Farm. 100% financing SOroof, for qualified buyer. REDUCED TO $99,500.

BEAUTIFUL BRICK HOUSE in Plantation Pines, 4 bd/3.5 baths, 1.6 acre lot very modern and pretty, REDUCED TO $324,000.

3189 LITTLE ROAD – 4 bd/2ba., large lot, very modern, & pretty, only $215,000.

8 ACRES KENT RD – REDUCED TO $45,000.

27 ACRES CLAUDE RD. – $80,000.

TALLASSEE GILMER AVE. – 3bd/2 ba next to DQ zoned commercial, REDUCED TO $125,000.

TALLASSEE BRICK HOME – on 1 acre with a 2 acre fish pond, 3 bd, 2 ba , large den and kitchen, garage, large screened porch, heat pump, REDUCED FROM $159,000 TO $149,000. 8 more acres also adjacent to it.

COMMERCIAL PROPERTY – 8 ACRES close to Walmart on Hwy 14, REDUCED $198,500.

MULLINS STREET– Eclectic, 1991 Doublewide mobile home on flat acre lot 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, very private, $45,000.

548 PROSPECT ROAD ECLECTIC- Beautiful home on 4 ACRES, 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, Very modern and private, Very close to lake Martin.$279,000.

Mack Daugherty

Voting delegates elected members to the Alabama Farmers Federation Board of Directors at a business session during the organization’s 94th annual meeting in Montgomery. Those leaders are Women’s Leadership Committee Chairman Regina Carnes of Marshall County, State Young Farmers Committee Chairman Lance Miller of Blount County, Southwest Area Vice President Jake Harper of Wilcox County and Central Area Vice President Dean Wysner of Randolph County, Secretary-Treasurer Steve Dunn of Conecuh County; District 1 Director Brian Glenn of Lawrence County, District 4 Director Rickey Cornutt of Marshall County, District 7 Director Joe Lambrecht of Elmore County and District 10 Director Steve Stroud of Pike County.

Contributed / The Observer

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On March 1, 2016 elect a commissioner who has spent a lifetime of volunteer service to his country, state, county and community.

“I firmly believe that one of our primary responsibilities and opportunities, while on this earth, is to strive to make a positive difference in someone’s life. I would be extremely humbled and honored to have the opportunity to serve as your Elmore County District Two County Commissioner. Thank you for your vote on March 1st, and may God bless you and your families!”

“Mack is a good man, a man of character and integrity, and I’m proud to call him my friend. There’s not many times you can vote for someone (rather than against), but Mack is someone you can.”

Chief Justice Roy Moore – Alabama Supreme Court “I can’t think of anyone that I would rather have as my county commissioner than my long-time friend and fellow veteran, Mack Daugherty. I have known Mack for many years, and you won’t Ànd a more reputable, Christian man. I have no doubt that Mack will serve us well, and I whole heartedly support him. I am a 93 year old WWII veteran, and I have met many people in my lifetime, and I can certainly vouch for the character and capabilities of this man. We would do well to put him in ofÀce.”

James Monroe Grif¿th – Eclectic, Alabama “ I am happy to offer my support to Mack Daugherty, for Elmore County Commissioner District Two. Mack is adamantly opposed to Home Rule (the granting of additional powers to the county commission to pass resolutions, pertaining to the citizens who choose to live in the unincorporated areas of the county, etc.) I have no doubt that Mack will vigorously protect our property rights against unneeded government regulations.”

Jay Fomby – Kent, Alabama “I once heard it said that if you want to know the true character of a man, just ask his neighbors. I have been Mack Daugherty’s neighbor for almost (44) years, and I have known him even longer. Mack is a person of the highest moral character and integrity.

In fact, I have so much conÀdence in Mack’s integrity and leadership ability, that if I had to pick someone to handle my personal Ànances and business affairs, I would not hesitate for a moment to pick Mack to do so. Mack has a servant’s heart, and he will listen to his constituents and will serve them well.”

Thomas C. Ingram, Ret. – State of Alabama Dept. of Transportation “I have known Mack Daugherty for the past (25) years and have always found him to be a person of impeccable integrity and high moral values. Mack relates well to all people and has a genuine concern for the welfare of everyone. He is a gifted musician and an excellent leader. Mack is an authentic Christian gentleman.”

Dr. John Ed Mathison – Montgomery, Alabama

“I would be humbled and honored to have your vote on March 1st for Elmore County Commissioner District Two!” – ACCEPTING NO CA MPA IGN DONATIONS – Paid for Mack Daugher t y Campaign | 7318 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024

Kenneth Boone, Publisher John W. Peeler, Managing Editor Opinions expressed in guest columns and letters to the editor do not necessarily reflect the viewpoint of the management of Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc.

PAGE 4 • JANUARY 21, 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.

Trump win could bring tears for country

S

ometimes it seems as if life is less believable than a television show.

This is one of those times.

Maybe there were those who believed when he tossed his “Make America Great Again” cap in the ring that Donald Trump had a real chance at earning the Republican nomination for president of the United States.

If so, I’d have to believe they were few.

After all, Jeb Bush – an heir to one of the great political dynasties of our age – was sure to be in the field. He had not only his rep, but also tons of money and was poised to give Hillary Clinton a run for her money.

Well, a funny thing happened on Jeb’s romp to the Republican nomination.

Trump began to attract huge crowds at his rallies, including one of his largest assemblies at an affair in Mobile.

Polls began to show that he’d jumped to a large early lead.

“He’ll fade,” said the voices of the Republican establishment, still believing that Jeb, with the Bush name and the inexplicable exclamation point in his logo, would come roar-

DAVID GRANGER Staff Writer

ing to the front of the pack.

The crowds kept packing the Trump rallies.

Trump kept leading the polls.

And the media gave him all the free television time he could ask for, discussing the arc of his candidacy with experts – both supporter and foe – and, yes, the candidate himself.

The other candidates found it hugely difficult to get a word in a newscast edgewise.

Time passed.

Little changed.

Even when Trump began to say seemingly politically deadly things like how we should impose a “total and complete shutdown of Muslims entering the United States until our country’s representatives can figure out what is going on,” he gained support. In fact, candidates who, in any other time, would likely have been more sensible, turned and embraced his fanatically anti-Muslim

language.

Even last night, when Trump was faced down by Sen. Ted Cruz about Trump’s “questioning” of Cruz’s qualification for the presidency because he was born in Canada, no less than a former law professor to Cruz, President Obama and others, Harvard Law’s Laurence Tribe, came quickly to Trump’s side.

“To his kind of judge, Cruz ironically wouldn’t be eligible, because the legal principles that prevailed in the 1780s and ’90s required that someone actually be born on US soil to be a ‘natural born’ citizen,” Tribe told CNN. And Tribe is right. To Cruz and others of his ilk, talk of the Constitution being a “living document” – and having assumed the kind of life that would make Cruz constitutionally eligible in the current election – would most times be termed constructionist and deemed just a rung below blasphemy.

So, here we are. Ben Carson, John Kasich, Chris Christie, Rand Paul, Mike Huckabee and Carly Fiorina stand no chance. All are very nearly flatlining in polls.

Despite a Friday endorse-

ment from Lindsey Graham, which could help him in Southern states, Jeb continues to struggle both in debates and in the polls.

Cruz is struggling with demons related to campaign loans and his very presidential qualification.

That leaves us with another Floridian, Sen. Marco Rubio, and Trump. Rubio is smart enough and a good debater, but his Gang of Eight immigration background where he sided with that darned liberal New York Sen. Chuck Schumer, is likely to hurt him.

So, last night, no less than former George W. Bush press secretary Ari Fleischer said that Trump had a “60 percent chance” of earning the Republican presidential nomination. * Insert heavy sigh here * Yes, I laughed when Trump announced his candidacy.

Now, I feel much more like crying.

Not for any of the other Republican presidential candidates, but for my country.

David Granger is an Elmore County resident and a staff writer with Tallapoosa Publishers.

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.

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ADMINISTRATION Kenneth Boone, publisher kenneth.boone@thewetumpkaherald.com Mitch Sneed, editor mitch.sneed@thewetumpkaherald.com NEWS John Peeler, managing editor John.Peeler@TheWetumpkaHerald.com. . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 302 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

Hubbard and the legislature to still be in the news

A

good many of the news stories that were the most noteworthy events of 2015 will continue into this new year of 2016 and may repeat as the major headlines of this year.

Speaker of the House Mike Hubbard will go on trial in his home of Lee County in early spring. Hubbard, the Republican Speaker, is the architect and leader of the GOP takeover of the Alabama House. Ironically, one of the cornerstone issues heralded

by Hubbard in his coup was ethics reform. Interestingly, one of the most incriminating emails revealed during discovery was one in which Hubbard essentially asked his buddy, former Gov. Bob Riley, why in the world did we pass that ethics law?

Hubbard has been indicted on 23 felony counts of ethics law violations. These ethics canons were passed and heralded by Hubbard and his leadership team in the House, which has remained loyal to Hubbard throughout the course of his trial. Hubbard was indicted in 2014. The GOP dominated House reelected him Speaker in January 2015 as the new quadrennium began. Their justification was that in America you are innocent until proven guilty.

During 2015 there were ongoing legal battles between the state prosecutors and Hubbard’s attorneys. These skirmishes filled the news periodically throughout the year. The case continuation seemed to cause some disintegration of Hubbard’s political hold on the House. In addition, the protracted budget fight that lasted most of 2015 created tension and discord.

During the last Special Session, while dealing with the General Fund Budget, some of the GOP

STEVE FLOWERS Coulmnist

backbenchers challenged Hubbard and some actually called for his resignation. Rep. Phil Williams of Huntsville actually launched a campaign to run against Hubbard as Speaker.

Hubbard’s trial is set to begin in late March so the Speaker will be absent from the presiding post for most of the Regular Session while attending his trial. If he is convicted on any of the 23 counts, not only will he have to vacate the Speakership but he will also be forced to leave the House entirely.

Hubbard’s successor would be elected among the House of Representatives. Regardless of the outcome this story portends to be one of the leading news stories of 2016.

Speaking of the legislature, an issue that arose in 2015 and should be resolved this year has strangely gone completely under the radar screen. Alabama’s House and Senate district lines, which were drawn and adopted in 2013, are up in the air. Our current legislature was elected in 2014 under these lines. When drawing the lines, the Legislative Reapportionment Committee meticulously complied with every aspect of the existing Voting Rights Laws and judicial holdings. Minority districts were preserved and even enhanced. Under Alabama’s 2014 redistricting the state’s racial compliance, as called for under the Voting Rights Act, is one of the fairest in the nation.

It was thought by most

observers that a perfunctory appeal of the lines by the Alabama Legislative Black Caucus and the Alabama Democratic Conference was nothing more than a Hail Mary. Indeed, a three judge federal panel approved the state’s plan.

However, the U.S. Supreme Court heard the case on appeal and in a surprise 5-4 decision in March remanded the case back to the three judge panel to reconsider.

Justice Stephen Breyer, in writing for the majority of the Supreme Court, said the judges should look at the individual districts to determine whether they were racially gerrymandered.

The Supreme Court is plowing new ground in Alabama and in other southern states by saying that black voters were “packed and stacked” in majority-minority districts stifling their power in the legislative process.

In August, the panel asked the plaintiffs to submit maps to comply with the ambiguous Supreme Court ruling. They did so in September. The three judge federal panel could rule on the maps at any time. Even though most of the changes suggested by the plaintiffs are minor and subtle and do not affect most existing lines, the federal courts could very well call for new legislative elections this year. If that happens it would be as big a story as the Hubbard trial.

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.

Concerned about cable?

The commission routinely receives inquiries from citizens requesting information about services provided by cable companies for Elmore County. The Code of Alabama 1975, Section 11-27-1 authorizes the county commission to grant franchises for the installation of poles or conduits within the boundary lines of public roads, highways, or rights-of-way for the operation of television.

The franchises shall only apply in unincorporated areas of the county, and exclusive franchises are prohibited.

Each provider’s franchise agreement includes terms to expand services to unserved areas of the county based on the density of residences in a specific area. The following providers currently offer services in select areas of Elmore County: AT&T Alabama, 334-557-6500, www.att.com/local/alabama; Bright House Cable, 334567-4344, www.brighthouse.com; Charter Communications, 877-9069121, www.charter.com and Com-Link Cable TV Inc., 800-722-2805,www2.comlinkinc.net.

The Federal Communications Commission Telecommunications Act of 1996 established a “benchmark” rate for services based on factors including number of subscribers, channels, etc.

As the Local Franchising Authority, Elmore County is not legally required to regulate the rate a provider can charge for basic service.

Small cable operators with 50,000 or less subscribers are not subject to effective competition per the federal law.

Additionally, there is no law requiring cable companies to offer services on an “a la carte” basis.

Citizens are encouraged and entitled to write or call their cable company with complaints. As the LFA, the commission may address customer service complaints (i.e. billing complaints, response to inquiries about signal or service, or franchise fees established by the County.

For more information, check out the FCC Consumer Guide at www.fcc.gov/consumer-governmental-affairs-bureau. If you have additional questions or comments, please contact the county commission office at 334514-5841 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

YOUR VIEW

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Only your name and city will be printed. We reserve the right to edit or to refuse to publish any submission.

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Abandonment is punishable by law HUMANE SOCIETY OF ELMORE COUNTY NEWS

By REA CORD Executive Director

Our “Getting Down with the Dawgs” DRAWDOWN is coming up Feb. 20, so make sure to stop by the shelter for your ticket(s) and your chance to win $10,000.

Last year we sold out of tickets before the 20th so don’t delay getting your ticket(s). With the purchase of a $100 ticket you will have a 1-in300 opportunity to win $10,000 (you do not have to be present to win the grand prize). Besides a chance to win big, each ticket holder and guest will also get a delicious buffet dinner, chance for door prizes, cash bar and so much more.

“Getting Down with the Dawgs” Drawdown will be at the Entertainment Center, Wind Creek Wetumpka, 100 River Oaks Drive, Wetumpka, Feb. 20. Doors will open at 5 p.m., cash bar opens around 5:30 p.m., dinner catered by Wind Creek begins at 6 p.m. and the Drawdown starts at 7 p.m. Tickets are on sale at the shelter at 255 Central Plank Road, Wetumpka, AL 36092 — get your ticket(s) now, buy one as a gift, or purchase one in the name of a special organization you support. For any questions, call 334-567-3377 or email hselco@bellsouth.net.

Abandon — this word is one we know far too much about at our shelter. Our dogs and cats are domesticated animals that are no longer truly capable of ‘living off the land’ no matter what some may think. They depend on us for their care and well being which is why abandoning a dog or cat is not only morally wrong, but punishable as a Class A Misdemeanor as Cruelty to Animals under the Alabama Code Section 13A-11240(b). This code states: “the word cruel, as used in this article shall mean: Every act, omission, or neglect, including abandonment, where unnec-

essary or unjustifiable pain or suffering, including abandonment, is caused or where unnecessary pain or suffering is allowed to continue.”

Is abandonment a significant problem in our area? Yes. Every week we deal with pets that have been dumped out on roads and other’s property, left in homes and yards after their owners have moved, left alone with no provisions for car Humane Society header e when the owners go on extended vacation, thrown out of moving vehicles, etc.

It is unfathomable to those of us who care about animal welfare that a fellow human could do something so despicable yet most who do so go unpunished and others are left to care for these often-unexpected pets that end up at their front door.

While we may be mad at the people who dump these pets, we commend all those who take them in, pick them up off the side of road, take the sick and injured to veterinarians, try to find the owners and do all they can to help these scared and bewildered pets to better lives.

These abandoned pet are a huge reason for shelter’s existence but since 37 percent of our intake are owner surrendered pets there is absolutely no reason for any pet to be discarded or abandoned by their owner. We would much rather have an owner surrender a pet they can no longer keep or take care of than abandon that pet to a potentially terrible fate.

We are open for intake six days a week from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. MondayFriday and from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Saturday and we do promise to do everything in our power to find loving & committed homes for as many of our pets as we possibly can.

If you have any questions about surrendering a pet or if you have found a stray or believe an animal to have been abandoned, please call us at 334-567-3377 or email hselco@bellsouth.net for assistance. Our shelter is located at 255 Central Plank Road (Highway 9) in Wetumpka — take Highway 231 North, turn right onto Highway 9 and we are the very first thing on the left.

JANUARY 21, 2016 • PAGE 5

FAITH

Phone 334-567-7811 kevin.taylor@thewetumpkaherald.com

PAGE 6 • JANUARY 21, 2016

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Religion Calendar Episcopal Church of the Epiphany On Sunday, January 24 at 9:30 a.m., Sunday School will focus on the parables of Jesus. At 10:30 a.m., Father Wells Warren will celebrate the Holy Eucharist marking the third Sunday after the Epiphany, with coffee hour to follow.

For more information, visit the church website: http:// epiphanytallassee.org/ First Baptist Church Reeltown Community Senior Luncheon will be Wednesday, January 27, 11:00 a.m. in the First Baptist Church Reeltown Fellowship Hall. Entertainment will be Ray Funderburke, David Stough and Dwayne Holt.

Salem Macon Baptist The Forever Young Seniors will meet on Tuesday January 26 at 6:30 PM. Kevin McCarty and Friends, from Reeltown Baptist Church. will present the program. Bring a covered dish and enjoy good food, good fellowship and good singing Elam Baptist Church Elam Baptist Church, a WELCOME HOME! Church, is located on Hwy 14 at 4686 Notasulga Road, Tallassee, Alabama. Rev. Gene Bridgman is Pastor and Worship Leader-Choir Director is Kevin Lanier. Elam is looking forward to the New Year 2016 in Christ! Visitors are always welcome and everyone is invited to all services and events. Begin the year right by being IN CHURCH each Sunday and Wednesday as well as special services. Meet God here. He will be expecting you. Do not miss or you miss a blessing. You have a special invitation. Regular services continue with Sunday Services: Bible Study 10:00 a.m.; Morning Worship 11:00 a.m.; I WITNESS 5:00 p.m. each week. Wednesday Services include Choir Rehearsal 6:00 p.m. and Mid Week Prayer Services 7:00 p.m. weekly. Watch for special events and activities in the coming year. WELCOME HOME! • 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.

Friendship Baptist Church: Friendship Closet, a ministry of Friendship Baptist Church located next to the church, is open the first Tuesday of each month from 9 to 11:30 a.m. and from 6 to 8 p.m. If you have a need for clothes, shoes, etc. for women, men and children, come visit us. You will find the presence of God there!

• Carrville Baptist Church: Our regular Sunday Services are Sunday school at 9:15; Morning Worship at 10:30am and all Sunday Evening activities are at 6pm. Our Wednesday night activities are at 6:30pm.

Beulah Baptist Church January Sisterhood-Saturday January 16 at 5 p.m.. Singing around the campfire with Tina Marie. Hope Brash will host at her home at 95 Warrior Lane. Baby shower for Beth Sexton-Sunday January 17 at 2: p.m. at the home of Dottie Carnes. Josh and Beth are expecting a baby girl.

Registered at Target. B-bob’s(55 or older)-Friday January 22 at 11: a.m. in the Fellowship Hall. Bring a covered dish. We will plan the years events for 2016 At Beulah, here is our schedule of services: Contemporary Service 8:30 a.m.

Sunday School 9:45 a.m.

Traditional Service 11:00 a.m.

Wednesday Feed the Sheep 6:00 p.m.

Wednesday Bible Study 7:00 p.m.

Nursery is available. All are welcome 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: Sis. Brenda Moss 334-401-0706, Sis. Linda Pullium 334-209-3208 and Sis. Judy Moss.

Pastor Eddie W. Coleman II and the Oak Valley United Methodist Church family has chosen that our theme for 2016 will be: More like Christ and less like man. Lord help me, to be more like you. In keeping with our theme we are beginning a community outreach program which is open to everyone. On Friday, January 29, 2016 from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Our first soup and sandwich lunch will be available for free at our church located at 3889 Burt Mill Road Tallassee, Al. Questions? Contact Pastor Coleman at 277-5991.

Lake Point Baptist Church Lake Pointe Baptist Church invites everyone to celebrate a Big Day for the church on Sunday, January 31, 2016, beginning at 10 AM. Lake Pointe is a new church and the new pastor will be introducing the church strategy of “Come! Let Us Build!” in the morning worship on January 31st. Anthony Counts, former pastor of Mountain View Baptist Church in Wetumpka, will lead the worship music.

Faron Golden, pastor at Lake Pointe, will be sharing the church’s plan for serving the community and surrounding area through the message from God’s Word. Lake Pointe is located at 8352 Highway 50, Dadeville, Alabama 36853, and is just a short drive from Tallassee. Everyone is welcome. Come! Let us build!

Beulah Baptist Church B-BOB’s(55 or older)-Friday January 22 at 11: a.m. in the Fellowship Hall. Bring a covered dish. We will plan the years events for 2016 At Beulah, here is our schedule of services: Contemporary Service 8:30 a.m.

Sunday School 9:45 a.m.

Traditional Service 11:00 a.m.

Wednesday Feed the Sheep 6:00 p.m.

Wednesday Bible Study 7:00 p.m.

Nursery is available. All are welcome Claud Independent Methodist Church will host a bible conference at Wetumpka High School on Feb. 6 -7.

Oak Valley United Methodist

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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.



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: kevin.taylor@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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THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

JANUARY 21, 2016 • PAGE 7

Dollar General robbery linked to others

By COREY ARWOOD and Carmen Rodgers Staff Writer

The suspect in the armed robbery of a Tallassee Dollar General appears to be on the move and is thought to be leaving behind a trail of robberies that stretch through Auburn, Alabama and into Georgia.

“It appears that our Dollar General was just the beginning of a crime spree this individual was committing,” said Tallassee Police Chief Jimmy Rodgers III. Rodgers said later Saturday night after the Dollar General robbery an individual matching that description was also responsible for two convenience store robberies in the Auburn area.

“Appears to be a black male probably around 6 feet 2 inches last seen wearing a light grey hoody type shirt or a sweater ball cap with some type of orange emblem,” Rodgers said.

As of Sunday, he said the Tallassee Police Department had received information an individual matching those descriptions had also committed the same crimes further north on Interstate 85 in Coweta County, Georgia.

“At this point we’re working with all those jurisdictions in trying to identify this individual,” Rodgers said.

Meetings are scheduled later this week with investigators from Coweta County, and the city of Auburn to combine efforts together to try to apprehend the suspect, Rodgers said.

He said that on Saturday night around 10 p.m., when the business was getting ready to close, the individual mentioned entered the store and approached the register area.

“The guy came in around 9:50. He had on New York Knicks hat and sunshades,” said Jamond Thomas, a manager for the Dollar General on Notasulga Highway.

Before the suspect robbed the store he made sure he was the only person in the store, Thomas said.

“He circled the store to see if any customers were around,” Thomas said. “After he circled the stop, he came to the front and he picked up a bag of sour patch kids. He purchased those first. Once he (the cashier) opened the register to give him his change, that’s when he reached in his pocket and stuck the cashier up. They say he parked his car down there at the donut shop. Once he left here he ran down

there to his vehicle.”

Thomas said the suspect made off with $269. This is the second time that this Dollar General has been robbed.

“Both times that we’ve been robbed here it’s happened after 9:30,” he said. “We’re the only place open that late over here. We would like to close earlier but we can’t.

It’s scaring the neighbors in the neighborhood. When it hits close to home, they don’t want us to be open that late either.”

So far there have been no leads given from anyone in the community, and Rodgers said that given the other cases that have developed in the meantime it is probably not a Tallassee resident.

Rodgers said that so far there have been no injuries in any of the robberies.

Police are asking anyone with information on this individual to contact The Tallassee Police Department. He is believed to be behind a rash of robberies spanning from Alabama to Georgia.

Surveillance footage captured this image of an unidentified suspect believed to be involved in a series of robberies ranging from Auburn, Alabama into Georgia.

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Area Calendar Community Tallassee Chamber of Commerce Annual Banquet When: Jan. 21, 6-9:30 p.m.

Where: Wetumpka Civic Center Details: Tickets are $35 per person or $250 for a table of eight. Speakers will be Mack and Ria Story. Call 334-283-5151 for more information.

Prattville Christian Open House When: Jan. 21, 10 a.m.-noon Where: Prattville Christian School Details: Informal event allows interested families to experience the PCA difference with campus tours and open discussions with school leadership. PCA is K3-12. Call 334285-0077 Blood Drive When: Jan. 21, Noon-6 p.m.

Where: Wind Creek Casino and Hotel of Wetumpka Details: Hosted by LifeSouth Community Blood Centers, Inc. Elmore County Parenting Expo When: Jan. 21, 5-7 p.m.

Where: Wetumpka High School Details: This event is to help educate parents on things like cyber bullying, current drug trends, financial aid, college info, various parenting resources in our area, etc.

Wind Creek’s food truck ‘Good to Go’ will be at the school providing Chicken Chili w/ cornbread to those that attend this event.

Expo sponsored by the Elmore County Technical Center. Call 334-567-1218 for more information.

Live in Concert: Boyz II Men When: Jan. 23, 8 p.m.

Where: Wind Creek Entertainment Center, Wetumpka Details: The four-time Grammy Award winning group will perform for the first time in Wetumpka. In addition to four Grammys, the group won nine American Music Awards and nine Soul Train Awards. Tickets are available on Ticketmaster.com Relay for Life Team Captains University When: Jan. 23, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Where: Faulkner University, Harris Building, Room 101; 5345 Atlanta Highway, Montgomery

Details: Email Amber Voss, Community Manager, Relay For Life at amber.voss@ cancer.org Blood Drive When: Jan. 23, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Where: Walmart of Millbrook Details: Hosted by LifeSouth Community Blood Centers, Inc. Prattville Mardi Gras Celebration and Parade When: Jan. 23, 11 a.m.

Where: Downtown Prattville Details: The celebration starts at 11 a.m. followed by the parade at 2 p.m.

From the Heart Pocket...Letters and Music of the Civil War When: Jan. 23, 7 p.m.

Where: Tallassee High School Auditorium Details: A theatrical production that takes audiences back to the time between 1861 and 1865 when Confederate soldiers were engaged in battles, marches and the trauma of war agsinst the Union. Advance tickets are $8 each and $10 at the door. Call 334-2832722 or 334-283-6888 for more information.

Taste of Elmore County When: Jan. 25, 6-8 p.m.

Where: Wetumpka Civic Center Details: Tickets are $25 each and will benefit the Elmore County Food Pantry. Purchase tickets at the food pantry.

Millbrook Relay for Life Kickoff When: Jan. 26, 6 p.m.

Where: Millbrook Civic Center Elmore County Relay for Life Kickoff Battle of the Bands When: Jan. 28, 6 p.m.

Where: Wetumpka Civic Center Details: Applications for the bands to enter can be found at www.relayforlife.org/wetumpkaal Mardi Gras Father & Daughter Dance When: Jan. 29, 6-8 p.m.

Where: Southside Middle School Gym Details: Tickets are $30 per princess and her date and $5 for each additional princess.

Tickets are $35 at the door. Tickets are available at Alabama Power, WACQ, Segrest Law, First Community Bank, Trustmark Bank, Tallassee City Hall, Suzannah’s Photography and Turf Tastics. Call 334-252-0036 for more information.

Millbrook Revelers Mardi Gras Festival and Parade When: Jan. 30, 9 a.m.

Where: Village Green, downtown Millbrook Details: Festival grounds with various rides for children and vendors will open at 9 a.m. The parade will begin at noon.

Petite and Little Miss Wetumpka Pageants When: Jan. 30, Noon Where: Wetumpka High School Commons Details: For children K-6 in the Wetumpka Public School System. Call Tracy Harmon at 334-425-0608 for more information.

Order of Cimarron Mardi Gras Celebration When: Feb. 6, 9 a.m.

Where: Downtown Wetumpka Details: Vendors will be open at 9 a.m. in Gold Star Park. The parade, which runs from West Bridge Street down South Main Street will begin at 1 p.m.

Kathleen Madigan - The Mermaid Lady Tour When: Feb. 6, 7:30 p.m.

Where: Montgomery Performing Arts Centre Details: Tickets start at $17. Purchase them at ticketmaster.com.

FOWL present “Murder on the Menu” When: Feb. 7, Noon Where: Wetumpka Civic Center Details: Spend the afternoon with 14 mystery authors from around the country at an annual fundraiser sponsored by the Friends of the Wetumpka Library. Registration is $40 per person and includes a catered lunch and goodie bag. Visit the library website for author line-up www.wetumpkalibrary.com Wetumpka Area Chamber of Commerce Membership Dinner When: Feb. 9, 5:30 p.m.

Where: Wetumpka Civic Center Details: Annual meeting and reception Roaring 20s style. Call 334-567-4811 for more information.

Wetumpka Depot Players present “Steel Magnolias” When: Feb. 11-14 & Feb. 18-21 Where: Wetumpka Depot Theatre Details: Purchase tickets by calling 334-8681440 or log on to www.wetumpkadepot.com Elmore County Relay for Life Committee and Team Camptain Meeting

When: Feb. 11, 5:30 p.m.

Where: Elmore County Firefighters Association (191 Red Eagle Drive), Wetumpka Artist reception at “The Kelly” When: Feb. 12, 5:30-7 p.m.

Where: Kelley Fitzpatrick Memorial Gallery (408 S. Main St.), Wetumpka Details: Meet and greet the artists of “Abandoned Rural America” and “The Land: God’s Gift” and enjoy an RC Cola and Moon Pie as well as other Southern delicacies made and grown in rural Alabama.

Valentine’s Day Blues Show When: Feb. 13, 7 p.m.

Where: Garrett Coliseum, Montgomery Details: Show features Betty Wright, Willie Clayton, Wyndell “B,” J-Wonn and Vick Allen.

Table seating is $45 and arena seating is $40.

Tickets are available at www.ticketmaster.com Tuesdays with Kelly When: Feb. 16, Noon-1 p.m.

Where: Kelley Fitzpatrick Memorial Gallery (408 S. Main St.), Wetumpka Details: Event includes lunch and a short educational program about rural Alabama.

This event features “The Holtville Story,” which is a movie made in the 1940s about Holtville High School.

Eat Healthy! Live Healthy!

When: Feb. 16, 7 p.m.

Where: Main Sanctuary of Shoal Creek Baptist Church, Deatsville Details: Registered dietitian Allan Higginbotham will be the special guest speaker at the free event. It is sponsored by the church’s library team.

Elmore County Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation’s 19th Annual Hunting Heritage Dinner When: Feb. 18, 6 p.m.

Where: Wetumpka Civic Center Details: Single, couples, sponsor and corporate table tickets available. A ticket includes an all “you can eat” ribs and chicken meal as well as a one-year NWTF membership. Other activities included with tickets: silent auction, live auction, raffles including a total of 19 guns to be given away.

For other information and/or tickets, call Gene Calhoun 334-315-2636 or Phil Savage 334850-7997.

THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

JANUARY 21, 2016 • PAGE 11

Pet of the week- Gypsy Gypsy is a 10-month old Australian Cattle Dog mix girl found as a stray and brought to us. She is very striking but is a special girl because she is deaf. Gypsy is good with other dogs, about 40 lbs, very smart, active and playful and can likely learn sign language easily. Gypsy has a sponsor to assist with her adoption to the right home for her.

Our adoption fees are $100 for dogs and $50 for cats under 1 year old; cats over 1 year old can be adopted by approved adopters for a fee of their choosing. The 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 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday and from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday.

PARTICIPATING RESTAURANTS 1220 Café (Tallassee) • AA Farm Creamery (Millbrook) Bon AppeƟt (Millbrook) • Boomer T’s BBQ (Wetumpka) Champs BBQ (Wetumpka) • Chappy’s Deli (PraƩville) CoƩon’s Alabama BBQ (EclecƟc) • Grumpy Dogs (Wetumpka) Hog Rock Bar-B-Que (Wetumpka) • KFC (Wetumpka) Los Mayas Mexican Restaurant (Wetumpka) • Martha’s Place (Montgomery) Must Stop Café (Wetumpka) • Our Place Café (Wetumpka) PlantaƟon House & Gardens (Millbrook) • Shoney’s (Wetumpka) Smokehouse BBQ (Millbrook) • Smokin S BBQ (Wetumpka) The Wharf Express (PraƩville) • Top of the Hill Grill (Wetumpka) Uncle Bob’s Dog House (Wetumpka) • White Wing Catering (Wetumpka) Wind Creek (Wetumpka) • Zaxby’s (Wetumpka) Tickets can be purchased at the Wetumpka Branches of: River Bank @ Trust, 1st Community Bank, and PrimeSouth Bank.

Tickets can also be purchased online.

Go to www.elmorecountyfoodpantry.net and click the “donate online” button.

Pennie Buckelew: 334.315.8557 Lynette Johnston: 334.300.2154 Larry Dozier: 334.294.6187 Richard Deem: 334.467.6924 Elmore County Food Pantry: 334.567.3232 elmorecountyfoodpantry@gmail.com

A beneÄt for the Elmore County Food Pantry

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

PAGE 12 • JANUARY 21, 2016

SPORTS

THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER

BTW trips up Elmore County

By CORY DIAZ Sports Editor

Elmore County High School couldn’t hold a six-point lead heading into the fourth quarter, as Booker T. WashingtonMagnet flipped the script to win, 52-46, at ECHS Tuesday.

For the second time this season the Panthers fell by single-digits to the No. 6-ranked Yellow Jackets, who clinched Class 4A, Area 5 tournament hosting duties.

ECHS led most of the night and took a 42-36 advantage into the final period, but ran into foul trouble, as seniors Kell Floyd, who recorded a double-double 15 points and 10 rebounds, Neal Cook and Johnnie Jasper all fouled out. As a result, Elmore County managed just four points, as BTW netted 16 to complete the comeback victory.

“There a team that plays like they have more experience that we do, that’s what it looks like,” Panthers boys basketball coach Warren Brown said. “We look like we’re the better team, but they look like that have more experience. They move the ball well, share the ball well, they’re in the right spots, and they don’t turn it over as much.

“Right now, I’d say they’re the better

team. They’ve beaten us twice. Led the entire game up until the fourth quarter, gave up the lead and never could recover and couldn’t find that offensive spark that we were looking for.”

Jasper finished the game with in double figures with 10 points, while Cook added eight for ECHS. Senior forward Markel Leonard scored all nine of his point in the first half and had 12 rebounds.

Thomas Green, Gabriel Stinson and Mike Stinson each had 10 points to lead the Yellow Jackets.

Due to suspensions, Elmore County played without contributors Tyric Belyeu, who’s averaged 14 points a game, and Jakobi Bickley. Brown said foul issues hindered his short-handed team against BTW. “Just stay on the court. It’s nothing different.,” Brown said. “We had less turnovers this game, but we still had too many.

Kell, his defensive presence was there. The guys that came off the bench played good minutes, Will (Venable) and (D.J.) Patrick came in and played good defense for us.

“They pressure the ball really well, and our kids didn’t handle it very well. That’s what they do, they cause havoc. Sometimes they give up layups from it, but most times they get turnovers. But well figure it, shake it off and hopefully see them in the area tournament.”

Cory Diaz / The Observer

Elmore County High School sophomore forward Terrence Head trips trying to pass the ball upcourt during the waning seconds of Tuesday’s Class 4A, Area 5 loss to Booker T. Washington-Magnt at ECHS.

Panthers’ Patrick picks up medal at indoor track event

By CORY DIAZ Sports Editor

Elmore County High School freshman D.J. Patrick landed two top-10 finishes at the annual Martin Luther King Jr. Indoor Track Classic Monday at the Birmingham CrossPlex.

Highlighting the Panther contingency, Patrick came in third place with a measurement of 42 feet, 4 inches in the Class 1A-5A boys triple jump event and ended up sixth in the 1A-5A boys long jump with a leap of 19 feet, 5.5 inches.

The ECHS boys 4x800-meter relay team finished 12th out of 15 teams, recording a time of 10:13.98.

Three Elmore County runners competed in the boys 800-meter race, with eighth-grader Zefeniah Edwards leading the Panther pack at 2:20.78, good enough for 23rd. Sophomore Jakob Hodges crossed the finish line 60th, clocking in at 2:36.21, while freshman teammate Dalton Odom came in 6 seconds behind him at 2.42.42 for 68th place.

In the boys 400-meter event, senior Kell Floyd ran a 55.84 and ended up 30th.

Rounding out the scoring for ECHS, freshman Cole Hagler came in 54th in the boys 1,600-meter race with a time of 5:52.46.

Contributed / The Outlook

Elmore County freshman runner D.J. Patrick poses with his triple jump bronze medal at the annual MLK, Jr. Indoor Track Classic at the Birmingham Crossplex.

Elmore County splits match with rival Stanhope Elmore

By CORY DIAZ Sports Editor

Elmore County wrestling split a tri-meet at county rival Stanhope Elmore last Thursday.

The Panthers defeated Sidney Lanier, 30-18, and fell to the host Mustangs, 48-30.

Against Lanier, ECHS wrestlers earned six fall victories, while dropping just two matches.

Jacob Owens (120-pound) and David Wood (126pound) started the dual off for the Panthers on the right foot, pinning Jatorrian Spell and Rodney Mims, respectively.

Lanier’s Reuben Garrison got his team on the board, earning a pin over ECHS’s Jeb Ballard in their 152-

pound bout.

Both squads then traded falls, with Nathan Whorton (160-pound) pinning Lanier’s Brandon Lowery before the Poets’ Lidontay Garrison defeating Trey Fulmer (182-pound).

Elmore County junior heavyweight Michael Guionnaud closed out the dual with a fall win versus Michael Belser, giving his team the 30-18 victory.

With just two contested matches, Stanhope Elmore beat the Panthers with two pins en route to the 48-30 team dual win.

In the 126-pound bout, SEHS’s Mitchell McCord got the best of Wood with a fall, and in the heavyweight match, Guionnaud lost to Jake Andrews.

ECHS wrestles in a tri-meet tonight at Tallassee with the host Tigers and Jeff Davis.

Cory Diaz / The Outlook

Elmore County 152- pound wrestler Jeb Ballard grabs Sidney Lanier’s Lidontay Garrison during the teams’ dual at the Stanhope Tri-meet Thursday.

Bruce Pearl trying to make AU relevant A

fter opening the season with a conference win over Tennessee, ANDY GRAHAM the Auburn Sports Tigers lost Columnist three straight games by double digits and looked less competitive in each successive contest. Significant injuries to key players had seemingly de-clawed these Tigers and turned them into domesticated house cats. I'm not sure anyone outside of the locker room was actually looking forward to a home game versus Goliath to Auburn's David. This year's Kentucky Wildcats might not be quite as formidable as last season's team that flirted with perfection, but they still sport a roster full of McDonald's All-Americans. I'm not saying Auburn has struggled with Kentucky on the hardcourt or anything. I'm just saying the Tigers had one victory over the Wildcats in the last 25 years coming into this game.

Well, now I guess they have two victories.

Auburn's 75-70 win on Saturday over John Calipari and Big Blue was just another brick in the foundation Bruce Pearl is trying to assemble on the Plains. I didn't think the Tigers had much of a chance, but apparently Pearl did and more importantly the players did as well. Saturday's game was a testament to what Pearl has accomplished since arriving a year and a half ago.

Auburn Arena has actually become an intimidating venue for opponents. In years past, there would have been nearly as many Wildcats fans in attendance as Auburn fans. I know. I went to an Auburn/UK game in 1998 as a student and heard the roars as the Wildcats won by 25. That's no longer the case. Pearl has totally embraced Auburn and immersed himself in its culture. The students and fans have responded with full support understanding that it's going to take time.

Auburn basketball was relevant during the 1980s. It was relevant in short stints in the late 1990s. It hasn't been relevant since. That's the charge that's been given to and accepted by Bruce Pearl. Make Auburn basketball not only relevant to its own fans, but to the entire country. It's an enormous undertaking considering the depths to which the program had fallen. However, Saturday's win is a nice step in the right direction especially considering it happened on national television. Right now, fans need to cherish wins like these. Last year, it was a run in the SEC tournament. This year it's a win over Kentucky.

There may only be moments in the first couple of years, but they prove the future is bright. If Coach Pearl continues to recruit like he is doing, Auburn basketball will be relevant very soon.

Unfortunately, I'm having to write this column before Auburn takes on Alabama on Tuesday night. That will be an important game for both teams for obvious reasons, but even more so because neither team can afford a loss. If Auburn won that game, then I'm extremely happy and the Tigers have gotten a much-needed boost of confidence. If Alabama won that game, I'm not very happy and the Tigers jubilation was somewhat short-lived. Quite frankly, I expect inconsistency and won't be surprised by either outcome especially considering Auburn's best player is a little gimpy. Since the game has already been played, do me a favor and let me know how it comes out.