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THURSDAY • JULY 21, 2016

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

Vol. 27, No. 28

Elmore county couple found dead Officials say husband shot wife and then self in murder-suicide fashion

By COREY ARWOOD Staff Writer

Elmore County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the shooting deaths of a senior citizen couple that lived in a community outside of Tallassee, and were said to be preparing to drive to Birmingham when the incident occurred. ECSO officials said a white male,

Martin Sharron, 65, shot and killed his wife Connie Sharron, 62, in a bedroom of their home and then immediately turned the gun on himself taking his own life. Sheriff Bill Franklin gave a preliminary account of the scene on Wednesday. He said another elderly couple was residing with the two at their home on the 7000 block of Upper River Road.

The call came in around 7 a.m., Franklin said. The other couple were said to have heard the shots, which came from a .45-caliber pistol. They were said to be waiting on the Sharrons to make their drive to a doctor in Birmingham, where Martin was said to be going for a medical condition. “We do not know why this hap-

pened, but we’re looking into why the subject was going to Birmingham, who he was going to see, what kind of illness he had, what kind of medication he was on; we’re still in the infant stages of it looking into it,” said Franklin. He said it was obvious that “something unique” in Martin’s life was going on, however they just did not know what that was at the time.

Candidates finalized for municipal elections

Charges dropped against Estes

By WILLIAM CARROLL Managing Editor

Council member formerly faced charges of criminal coercion

The Wetumpka River and Blues Music and Arts Festival packed downtown Wetumpka with crowds who braved the heat, and later the rain, for a spicy gumbo of eclectic tunes, tastes and trinkets. City officials involved in the planning of the event said there was an estimated 10-to-12,000 who attended the festival Saturday.

Tuesday was the deadline for candidates to file their intention to run in dozens of races countywide. Elections for all county municipal races will be held on August 23. In the town of Eclectic, incumbent Mayor Gary Davenport will be running against current Place 5 council member Wanda Estes. In council Place 1, Jackie Stearns will be running unopposed. In Place 2, Chrissy Calhoun and Charles Powell will be facing off, Powell is the current holder of the council seat. In council Place 3, incumbent Inez Gates will face challenger Jake Youland. In Place 4, incumbent Linda Reed will take on Stephanie Stepney. In Place 5, David Goodwin is the lone filer for Estes’ current seat. In Wetumpka, incumbent Mayor Jerry Willis will face off against challenger Emmitt Johnson Jr. Current council members

See FESTIVAL • Page 3

See CANDIDATES • Page 3

By COREY ARWOOD Staff Writer

Charges were dropped against an Eclectic town council member, and mayoral candidate, when an Elmore County Grand Jury issued a no-bill after hearing the case in last week’s grand jury session. On Wednesday, Eclectic Police Chief Robert Head confirmed that Wanda Estes, of Council Place 5 was cleared of charges of criminal coercion which arose mid June. Head said he had just learned of the update yesterday, and had contacted local Elmore County Assistant District Attorney, C.J. Robinson. In a Wednesday phone call Robinson said the charges were not dropped, but said that case was presented to a grand jury, which handed down the no-bill verdict. For the charges to be dismissed, Robinson said, the state would have to deliberately file a motion dismissing the charges. Robinson said the victim, of whom few details were given other than her gender, indicated she did not wish to proceed with See CHARGES • Page 2

Today’s

Weather

96 74 High

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Corey Arwood / The Observer

The festival fare was also a main draw for many with vendors coming from out-of-state to bring authentic Louisiana-inspired favorites from shrimp and grits to gator tail on a stick. Below, Some “homegrown reggae” was passed around by Montgomery band BPM.

A MUSICAL SUCCESS

River Festival growin’ like a gator tail By DAVID GRANGER Staff Writer

County school board casts PSC’s Beeker talks energy waste in government woes, another vote on pay raises By WILLIAM CARROLL Managing Editor

FRIDAY: HIGH 96 LOW 74

The Elmore County School Board again revisited the issue of employee wages, previously discussed during the board’s June 27 meeting, Monday evening. Board member Joey Holley made a motion to rescind the 2016-2017 salary schedule approved at the June 27 meeting. The board then discussed the issue further before approving a recommendation submitted by Elmore County Schools Superintendent Andre Harrison. At the June 27 meeting, board members seemed confused about recently passed House Bill 121.

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Board Chair Larry Teel originally opposed a four percent across the board increase, initially saying that the “letter of the law mandated a two-percent increase. He also stated at the earlier meeting that he felt it was totally inappropriate to give employees additional raises. House Bill 121 set minimum raises at four percent for those making less than $75,000 and two percent for those making more than $75,000. Ultimately, at the June 27 meeting the board voted for a four percent pay raise across the board, with the exception of the Superintendent who would receive a two percent raise. See SCHOOL • Page 2

By DAVID GRANGER Staff Writer

Chip Beeker is on a crusade against American energy policy. Beeker, who serves on the Alabama Public Service Commission, place 2, was in Alexander City on Monday as a part of that crusade. “This Clean Power Plan is designed to do these political things that the federal government wants,” Beeker said. “If you’ll print in your paper how many pages the Obama administration has added to the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency), it will stagger you. Beeker 25,000. You can’t read ‘em. Let alone implement them. It seems like that cannot be. But we’ve researched it. We’ve looked. Nobody See ENERGY • Page 3

PAGE 2 • JULY 21, 2016

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER

Pet owners should take extra steps to protect animals from the heat By REA CORD Executive Director HSEC

t should be blindingly obvious but please pet owners take extra measures to protect your pets and livestock during this heat! Fresh water and lots of it; shade and lots of it; protection from hot pavement/cement that can scorch a pet’s foot pads; perhaps fans to help move air in that shady spot; and best of all bring your pet inside with the family IN the air-conditioning if at all possible. If you truly love your pet and like to take it with you everywhere, perhaps

DON’T if that means subjecting it to scorching pavement or sand and the blistering sun – your pet might be a whole lot happier at home in the A/C while you go check out the local flea market or beach. And don’t even think of leaving your pet in your vehicle while you run some errand inside a store – just DON’T! If you need to make a stop while out and about, then please just leave your pet at home and give them an extra hug or treat when you get home. Only two weeks until our 11th annual Wags ‘N Whiskers Auction

on Friday, July 29th, 2016 at the Wetumpka Civic Center, 212 S. Main Street, Wetumpka. Heads up - so that our Volunteers and Staff can get ready, the Tails End Thrift Store will close at 1 pm on the 29th and the Shelter will close at 4 pm (normally 5 pm). Both will be back open normal hours on Sat, 30th. You can see the items that will be in our auction (less any ‘too late to classify”) at our special auction website: www. elmorehumane.auction. We truly have something for everyone – jewelry, art, collectibles, gift baskets, weekend getaways,

pet items, outdoor items and so much more! Besides all the great auction items, be sure to also get your $1 ticket(s) for a chance to win either a huge Alabama or Auburn Football basket chalked full of items! This is both a silent and live auction so be prepared to keep an eye out on all those treasures you want to take home. The Civic Center will open at 6 pm on the 29th! Creek Casino Wetumpka will get everything started with a bounteous and yummy hors d’oerves layout. DJ Ziggy from PowerSounds USA will be our Master

Charges

of Ceremonies and from 7:15 – 8 pm, Scott & Michelle Williams, and the crew from High as the Sky Auction Company, will liven everything up during the fast paced live auction portion! Scott is an award winning auctioneer and we are just thrilled for his continuing support. For your planning this is a fun evening that could well last until 9pm bidding wise. Once bidding is over our many auction volunteers will then help everyone collect their items and complete final payment processing. You can pre-purchase

tickets ($25 couple/$15 single) at our shelter (255 Central Plank Road, Wetumpka) or at the door. We also have ONE unsold table seating eight for $300 – come to the shelter or call us at 334567-3377 to pay for this last available table! What makes this evening fun is a packed house and spirited bidding. All of the proceeds raised help us care for the 300+ pets with us during this very busy time of year. Please share our Facebook Event if you are a Facebook friend and, if not, please tell and invite your friends to join all of us on the 29th!

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the case. However, he said he could not comment on whether she, the victim, actually appeared before the grand jury. Head said Estes was cleared of charges because the D.A. said the victim would not come in and testify and did not want to press any other charges Little else was described about the victim, or the

nature of her allegations and relation to Estes, if for no other reason than it was only one out of roughly 200 cases last week, Robinson said. He said he knew she was not a juvenile, and that there was some relationship between her and Estes. The case stemmed from an incident on June 16 to which EPD officer Christopher Lindsay was said to have responded. Elmore County Sheriff’s Office served the warrant on behalf of the Eclectic Police Department. At the time Lindsay gave only limited details about the incident. He said the charges came from a call he had respond-

School

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After the previous vote was rescinded by Holley’s motion Monday, the board then considered Harrison’s recommendation to accept a four percent raise for all employees except himself. Teel suggested that the board actually give employees making under $75,000 an additional two percent raise, which would bring their total up to a six percent increase. Teel suggested that lower paid employees should be entitled to a little more as an across the board raise would not be fair to all employees, especially those making below $75,000. Chief School Financial Officer Jeffrey Middleton said such an increase would cost the district in excess of $1 million dollars and voiced his support for the recommendation submitted by Harrison. Middleton said that

ed to nearly a week prior, and which Estes at some point became involved in. Lindsay said the call was in reference to a verbal altercation at a residence on the 1100 block of Georgia Road, around June 10. He described it as a kind of “sticky situation” in which he said the victim became the victim twice. Criminal coercion, according Alabama Code 13A6-25, is a Class A misdemeanor, regarding threatening someone in a number of ways to either act in an unlawful manner or to not act in a lawful manner.

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two percent increase for those making over $75,000 to bring the figure to four percent total would only cost an additional $30,000. After the discussion, the board voted 5-1 to approve the four percent across the board raise with Teel voting against the measure. The board then took up additional discussion regarding Harrison’s salary although no resolution on the matter was reached. Members were concerned about several factors, specifically Board Member Mark Nelson wanted legal clarification in writing on the issue and other members were concerned as to the effective date of any such salary increase. In other matters before the board: • Amber Anderson, director of business and operations with the Alabama Association of School Boards made a presentation regarding the district’s search for a new chief school financial officer to replace Jeffrey Middleton. Anderson suggested that the board utilize the services of AASB to conduct their search for a replacement. Harrison told the board members that the district had already received 12 applications for the position and board members, while not voting definitely on the issue, were in favor of conducting the selection process themselves and not going through the AASB. • The board voted to accept the June 2016 payroll in the amount of $6,015,130.97 scholastic and $955,045.46 calendar. • The members also voted to accept the resolution authorizing the issuance and sale of up to $1,500,000 Capital Outlay School Warrant of the board.

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TheWetumpkaHerald.com

JULY 21, 2016 • PAGE 3

Energy

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can read that. “And so they hire all these people to write all these things – in case this happens and this happens and this happens, we have to defeat coal. If not, the south is going to blossom.” In June 2014, EPA proposed the Clean Power Plan, which it called “a commonsense plan to cut carbon pollution from power plants.” Among other things, it cited climatea change as the reason a national limit was needed on carbon and said its plan would “help cut carbon emissions from the power sector by 30 percent from 2005 levels.” Beeker believes the plan unduly targets the coal industry in the south. “The good people supporting all the senators in the Northeast cannot compete and so the south is thrown under the bus. Why? Because we love these senators and we have to defeat coal. It sounds radical, but I don’t own any coal mines, I don’t owe coal anything. I’ve just seen it. And there’s not anything about it that’s right and fair. There are too many scientists now saying, ‘No, coal’s not doing that.’ So it’s about competition, it’s about jobs, it’s about money. These people have to tax coal.” Beeker made four media stops on Monday and says he’ll make more to raise the public’s awareness about these policies he believes are wrong. “I was doing TV this morning,” Beeker said. “I said the same thing. People don’t know this. People think we’re dying because of coal. It’s a lie.”

Beeker abhors waste and among his favorite examples is the Bellefont Nuclear Power Plant in Hollywood, Alabama, where construction began on twin reactors in 1974. Work was halted by TVA in 1988 in response to declining demand. Work on the $4.9 billion plant restarted in late 2011, but stalled again early in 2012. At one time, as many as 540 workers were employed at the facility. “There’s a nuclear power plant … built in the 70s,” Beeker said. “You know how much energy is produced? None. If you drive up to the plant, you would think it’s running. There are cars in the parking lot. And you walk in and you sign in and you have to be dressed up to get into a nuclear plant and you go and it’s big. And the people say, ‘Well, this does this and this does this’ and it’s never made one ounce of electricity. People have gone to work at that plant and retired and never made an ounce of electricity. Retired on your money and mine. Not two or three. Lots of ‘em. “In Nevada, there’s a huge mountain out there called Yucca Mountain. (U.S. Sen.) Harry Reid (D-Nevada) sent billions to fit Yucca Mountain to take the nuclear wastes in fixing energy and put it in that mountain back in the 70s, early 80s. Billions have been spent. You know how much waste they’ve taken? Zero. Same amount that the nuclear plants in Alabama have produced. It’s the safest. We know that. The waste of the federal government is staggering. It’s beyond the average person’s ability to comprehend.”

Festival

Beeker is a personable man with decidedly conservative views. He calls President Obama “an empty suit” and talks about the president’s purchase of a home in Dubai, a claim that has been rebuked by such sites as snopes.com, which says the story originated on a political conspiracy site. Still, Beeker says he will continue to talk about energy policy and government waste, particularly when they involve Alabama jobs. “I’m not going to be quiet,” Beeker said. “Debate it. Put it out there. That’s why I ran. I’m not embarrassed. There’s nothing they can do to me, but send me back home to the farm. Let ‘em send me. Until then, I’m not going to hush.” Before he became involved in politics as a member of the Greene County Commission in 1986, Beeker devoted all of his time to his cattle and catfish farming operations. He is a Greene County native. He and his wife, Teresa Inge Beeker, have been married for 41 years and have three children. Beeker was elected to the Public Service Commission in 2014.

Need CPAP?

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“I feel it was a complete success, everything ran smoothly, we didn’t have any issues arise besides a little bit of rain,” said Tiffany Robinson, who is one of the long-running main architects of the event. She said that still did not put “too much of a damper” on the night though. After the showers, she said “a lot of people” enjoyed the headliner, Rockin Dopsie, Jr. and the Zydeco Twisters. The attendance numbers were in line with previous years for the event, but the sponsors, Robinson said, seemed to be growing by the year with some all ready “expressing interest” in next year. There were Louisiana inspired food vendors at the festival, one of which offered gator-tails on a stick. “I like to get stuff like that out there, it goes in line

Candidates

with the New Orleans, Cajun theme,” Robinson said. There were two stages worth of music at the event. The music on the main stage covered a wide-ranging variety of styles. Starting off was a Montgomery band, BPM, described as “homegrown reggae.” And second in the set was another local, and outthere, band, the Low-Fi Loungers, who played jazzedup bluesy rockabilly and country hits from decades past. And for the last two acts, “The last two acts were wonderful,” Robinson said, with Mississippi based R&B singer, J.J. Thames preceding Rockin Dopsie, Jr. “This festival’s all about music you can’t necessarily hear anywhere else in the area,” Robinson said.

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Rebecca Wingett Thornton (District 3) and William “Greg” Jones (District 5) are unopposed for their council seats. Current city councilman Kevin Robbins will face Imogene “Emma” Bass in District 1. City Councilman Percy Gill will face Lewis Edward Washington, Sr. in District 2 and District 4 Councilman Steve Gantt will meet challenger Frank Bertarelli. In Tallassee long time Mayor Bobby Paine has announced he will not seek reelection. Paine had originally filed for the position, but announced Wednesday that he had decided not to seek reelection. Four candidates will seek to replace him, they are John “Johnny”

Hammock, Jeanna W. Kervin, George A. McCain and James “Trey” Taylor. Current city councilmen Darrell Wilson (Ward 4), Bill Godwin (Ward 6) and David Stough (Ward 7) are running unopposed. In Ward 1, current city councilman Rob Rygiel will be challenged by Jeremy Taunton. In Ward 2, incumbent Heather Johnson will face off against two challengers; Sarah Hill and Matthew Miller. In Ward 3, incumbent Charles Blalock will face challenger Damian Carr. In Ward 5, incumbent Terrel Brown will be challenged by Charles Andrew “Andy” Bodenheimer.

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PAGE 4 • JULY 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.

Rare case for second chances in Vegas The hamster wheel of justice goes round and round

or the second straight year, I performed at the NonCommissioned Officers Association’s annual conference in Las Vegas with my pals The GI’s of Comedy. Our shows usually go pretty well, but last year was a stinker for me. I got really drunk before the show. If Forest Gump had something like 14 Dr. Peppers at the White House, then I must’ve had something like 14 beers before that show, and the first seven were high gravity beers. That was a lousy decision on my part. I was going through a difficult stretch last year and often chose to drown my sorrows in beer, but then I’d go three weeks without one. I didn’t drink all the time, but when I did, I made up for lost time. I wasn’t and I’m not an alcoholic, but one doesn’t have to be an alcoholic to have a problem. I’m not a gambler, but after the show, I gambled by going to have a beer with the guys. It was my first beer since Feb.8, although I did have one glass of wine after dinner a couple of weeks ago. That one beer could’ve turned into one more followed by one more followed by one too many. If that had happened, would anyone back home have ever known? After all, what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas. The great thing is that I did stop at one and had no desire for another. There was no pressure to drink that beer, and there was no pressure to drink another, not from me or anyone else. Along the journey of keeping my alcohol intake in check and not drinking, I’ve always thrown in the disclaimer “not that I’ve quit.” I enjoy beer or a good glass of wine but honestly

JODY FULLER Guest Columnist

feel that it will never again become habit. I won’t let it. I feel too good. There will never be any type of routine. I know guys that only drink on weekends, which is great compared to the alternative, but it’s still a routine. For all I know, it’ll be three months before I have another or it may be next week. It may be never. I don’t know. Last year, when I was leaving Las Vegas, I was feeling miserable. When I got to the airport, I tried to find somewhere to lie down but then had to go the restroom, because I was sick. My flight was to Portland for another gig. As soon as I landed, I got sick again. That’s just no way to live. I hadn’t seen my pals in a few months. In fact, I hadn’t seen one of them in three years. They all commented on how good I looked. They weren’t saying that last year. But, I do feel good. I’ve never felt this good in my life, and it’s 100% attributed to what I have and have not put into my body. We seldom get second chances at things, so we must make the best of those rare opportunities but have to make better decisions along the way. We can’t possibly expect to improve our situation if we continue to make the same lousy choices. By the way, the show this year went incredibly well. Jody Fuller is a comic, speaker, writer and soldier. He can be reached at jody@jodyfuller.com.

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

amsters are fascinating little creatures. They are fairly happy to live in their little cages, surrounded by goodies, including their own exercise mechanism. Anyone that has seen a hamster run on its wheel notices that the small creature seems to be expending quite a bit of energy, and yet is getting absolutely nowhere. A similar thing has been occurring with the Tallassee City Council recently. All of the little hamsters are just mightily spinning their wheels on this mayoral election issue and of course getting nowhere. Last week I pointed out various reasons why the city should stay out of this matter. Sadly, only councilman Rob Rygiel had the good sense to refuse to participate this time around. The funny thing is that I previously only gave a few reasons it would be a bad idea. Now that the council has voted to challenge two of the candidates I’ll add in a few more. This matter will have to be settled in court, meaning that it will not be a quick process. Anyone who has ever handled a civil case knows they can drag on. Also, in my experience in dealing with election contests in other states, judges loathe the idea of removing someone from the ballot prior to the election, especially if there is some doubt as to whether the candidate should be removed. Removing candidates prior to the election creates an interesting problem if that removal is later deemed by a higher court to have been improper. Do the candidates now have a cause of action against the judge who removed them, or against the city for improperly moving to remove them from the ballot? Also, what if



WILLIAM CARROLL Managing Editor

the candidate sought to be removed loses the election? Is there then a point in removing them from the ballot? Oftentimes judges will wait to see if the issue becomes moot by allowing the election to play out, especially as it is now just over a month away. Last week, we discussed the elections manual produced by the Alabama League of Municipalities. In that document the League cites to an Alabama Supreme Court case of Harris v. McKenzie, 703 So. 2d 309 for the concept that courts must decide these issues. In that case Harris was the winner of a city council election and McKenzie finished second. McKenzie then challenged Harris’ qualifications, specifically where he lived. A court initially ruled against Harris, but Harris won on appeal to the Supreme Court. As I mentioned above, the civil process is a long one and could be overturned if the lower court makes the wrong decision. Why not wait until the election ends to see if there is a reason to challenge a candidate in the first place? Maybe neither of the candidates in question will obtain enough votes to win the election. Now the city council has effectively thrown its hat into the mayoral ring. Instead of the upcoming election being about the candidates and their positions, it will now be instead about who lives where. Sure this could have been a cam-

paign point for the candidates in any circumstance, but now the city leaders have effectively made it an issue by bringing it up during the election. By jumping into the ring they are effectively acting to try to frame the tone of the election, and this is something a governmental entity should never do. The fact that quite a lot of discussion has been had on this issue in closed session is also a bit unnerving. Last week I outlined the rules on executive sessions, my own opinion is that the city violated the meaning of the executive session law, but of course the city’s attorney will disagree since the attorney is the one who advised the council on having the discussion in closed session. Here is the main problem, even if the city did not have an illegal meeting they had what I would call a patently un-American meeting. Voting is one of the things that truly defines our American experiment. Our Founding Fathers railed against the abuses they saw coming from the English crown, specifically the colonists’ inability to have a say in their own governance. It is for these reasons, our desire to create a government where we could be represented, that we threw off the yoke of the British. Therefore, any discussion that seeks to limit candidates or seeks to limit our options to vote should be discussed in open session. Let the citizens hear the allegations and the defenses so that they may know who they should vote for. Secret back room meetings are nothing but an un-American exercise in futility and a slap in the face to our Founders. Carroll is the managing editor of The Observer.

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Florida could decide presidency, U.S. Senate

ometimes when I observe national politics I am enthralled by the magnificent creation of our American government. When our forefathers founded our democracy it was grounded in British parliamentarian philosophy with a unique American blend, which of course omitted a monarchy. Now, 240 years later, it is a very representative democracy. As our founders designed, we have three very independent and equally important branches of government, executive, judicial and legislative. The executive branch is the most visible with the election of a U.S. President every four years. In earlier times, military men ascended to the presidency. George Washington was first and foremost a general. Our last military chief executive was Ike Eisenhower. Our first president, Washington, disdained political parties and warned that they were harmful to a functioning democracy. He had a lot of wisdom, as did many of our earlier presidents. Indeed, political partisanship has created a good amount of discord and disharmony among the American electorate. Party alliance, along with a cumbersome and archaic relic of a system of selecting our president within the confines of the electoral college, makes the presidential race completely undemocratic. Under the electoral college system only about 10 to 12 of the 50 states matter in a presidential race. It is almost a one-state presidential election with Florida having inordinate and almost omnipotent power. Demographic changes within the country favor a Democrat being elected president. However, the way the minority populations are concentrated into urban enclaves, the U.S. House of Representatives

STEVE FLOWERS Guest Columnist

favors the Republicans controlling that legislative chamber. The U.S. Senate is now the ultimate balance of power. Therefore, the U.S. Senate races around the country are probably more important, as well as more in doubt, than the presidential race. The Republicans took control of the Senate a few years ago with an anti-Obama sentiment. A good many of those GOP Senators are up for reelection. Republicans currently hold a 54-46 advantage in the Senate. In this current presidential election year Republicans are much more vulnerable to losing their majority simply because there are more GOP seats at risk. Of the 34 Senate seats up for election this year, 24 are held by Republicans and only 10 Democrats are up for election. The second major problem for Republicans is that many of those GOP seats are in states that voted for Obama in 2008 or 2012 and are considered blue or Democraticleaning states. There are nine states that are the battlegrounds for control of the Senate. In order for Democrats to take the Senate they must hold onto all their seats and win five seats from the GOP. In Illinois, Republican Sen. Mark Kirk, who won with only 48 percent of the vote in this blue state, is the most endangered GOP incumbent Senator. In Wisconsin, first term Republican Sen. Ron Johnson faces former Democratic Senator Russ Feingold in a rematch of their 2010 race. Colorado,

which is a swing state in this year’s presidential contest, will also be a crucial part of the senate puzzle. Democratic Sen. Michael Bennett won reelection to a second term with just 48 percent of the vote, which makes him vulnerable to a GOP challenge. The retirement of veteran Democratic leader, Harry Reid, has left his Senate seat in play for each party in Nevada. This state is also a swing state in the presidential contest. GOP Sen. Pat Toomey won a very close election in the blue state of Pennsylvania in 2010. This could be a Democratic pickup. The two ultimate swing states in the presidential race will also be pivotal in control of the U.S. Senate. In Ohio, Republican Sen. Rob Portman will have a tough challenge from former Democratic Gov.Ted Strickland. This will be a key race. Sen. Marco Rubio originally abandoned his Florida Senate seat to run for president. However, in a last minute dramatic move in June, he backpedaled and decided to seek reelection to his Senate seat. In Rubio’s statement he said, “Control of the Senate may very well come down to the race in Florida.” National political experts tend to agree with him. Although he lost to Trump in his home state in the GOP presidential race earlier this year, polling indicates that Rubio is the only GOP candidate who can beat either of the two Democrats in the Sunshine State. Florida could be the deciding factor in both the presidential contest as well as for control of the U.S. Senate. See you next week. Steve Flowers is Alabama’s leading political columnist. Steve may be reached at www.steveflowers.us.

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TheWetumpkaHerald.com

JULY 21, 2016 • PAGE 5

Tarzan boat makes a splash in big debut By MITCH SNEED Editor

A little bit of the jungle has come to Lake Martin as floating aquatic playground known as a Tarzan Boat made a big splash it its debut last weekend. The boat that features slides, a rope swing, trampolines, platform dives and a massive sun deck opened for business last weekend at The Landings at Parker Creek. Judging from the smiles and responses from those who were on the maiden excursion, Herb Winches and Randy Visser have a big hit on their hands. “It was the best time we have ever had on the lake,” said Katherine Boland who has been coming to Lake Martin with her family every summer for six years from Tallassee, Florida. “I mean the kids just loved it and we all did. We love the lake, but having this here now, I know the kids won’t want to wait to do this again.” The boat is one that is manufactured and is now in use at locations all across the country, including in Orange Beach. The boat can handle up to 40 occupants and they have plenty to keep them busy. Visser and Winches teamed to purchase and bring the boat to the area. On weekend, the boat is located at Winches restaurant, The Landings at Parker Creek and for $20 each, those who journey out can jump, dive, swing and slide for an hour. A new voyage takes off every hour on the hour. “We opened here a year ago and in that time we’ve been very fortunate,” Winches said. “But when Randy came to me with this idea, I felt like it was the perfect thing to bring another element to this side of the lake. So we have it here on the weekends and people can come here to enjoy it. Judging from what we same on that first weekend, people seem to be excited about it.” On weekdays, the boat is available for private parties and since it is motorized, they can even bring the boat to you. Visser said the calls have been flooding in for requests for birthday parties and all sorts of gatherings at the lake. A party rental is 675 for three hours, Visser said and they have already started booking dates with two in the next week. To book a party Visser suggests going to www.tarzanboatz.com. “It’s a floating, mobile water park,” Visser said. “That first weekend far exceeded our expectations. Without any real advertising we have had calls and requests flooding in. We are really excited about the reaction that people have had. “When we decided to do this the idea was to make Parker Creek and the Tarzan Boat the Chimney Rock of our side of the lake. From what we are seeing, we think that is just what we may have with this.” The boat is decked out with a Gorilla Bounce that features a trampoline that allowed jumpers to take a 14-foot plunge into the lake. The Monkey Bounce gives swimmers an 8-foot plunge and the Tarzan Swing will allow participants to swing out from 12feet above the water and drop into the lake.

Mitch Sneed / The Observer

Kids take leaps off the Gorilla Bounce and the Monkey Jump on the Tarzan Boat at Parker Creek Landing last weekend. It was the fi rst week the boat was operational on Lake Martin and owners hope it will add another fun element for visitors or those looking for an aquatic attraction for private parties. Right corner, Kelly Autry Hand fl ips off the boat’s Gorilla Bounce.

There is also a 6-foot platform dive for the less adventurous boaters and the jungle slide offers a twisty route to the cool waters below. Henry Maxwell was with a group of 12 on the boat on its first trip on the lake. He said adults and kids couldn’t get enough. Maxwell and his group sat around a table at the restaurant talking about the dives and the belly flops that they wished they had video of to show off to others back home. “I don’t know who had more fun, the kids or the parents,” Maxwell said. “Look at the kids, they had a ball. But we all did. We may be a little sore tomorrow, but it was blast. We will definitely do this again.” Winches said that while Lake Martin is an incredible draw, he hopes the boat will be something that makes every trip a little more memorable. “Like the group we had here from Tallahassee, they come every year,” Winches said. “They go out on the boat and tube, but this is one more things that the parents and kids can do together. Making memories, isn’t that what Lake Martin is all about?” Visser said that while the business plan does include covering expenses, he and Winches plan to donate a portion of profits to charity. “This isn’t about is getting rich,” Visser said. “We want to bring fun and raise the profile of this side of the lake and give back if we can.” To get to Parker Creek, take Highway 9 to Equality and then take a left on Coosa County Road 2. Go about six miles following the signs to Parker Creek Marina and it will lead you to where the Tarzan Boat calls home.

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PAGE 6 • JULY 21, 2016

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Religion Briefs • Episcopal Church of the Epiphany On Sunday, July 24 a Morning Prayer worship service will be held at 10:30 a.m., with coffee hour to follow. For more information, visit the church website: http:// epiphanytallassee.org/ • Rock Springs Baptist Church Will celebrate its 101st Birthday/ Homecoming on Sunday, July 24, 2016, beginning at 10:45 a.m. with a worship program followed at noon with a fellowship luncheon. We invite everyone interested to attend. Dr. Jim Jackson will be our featured speaker, Travis Shaw will lead our music with special music by Travis and the musical duo Emily Urquhart & John Adcock. A $500 scholarship award will be presented to a deserving student during our program. Also a special donation will be made to ACTS for its food pantry. Revival services will follow on MondayWednesday, July 25-27 at 7 p.m. with a light supper at 6:15 each night. We are honored that special Mrs. Louise Jackson, Kenneth Loomis, Emily Urquhart and John Adcock will provide music during our revival. Dr. Jim Jackson will be our revival speaker. Mrs. Carol Garnett will serve as pianist for all services. We thank everyone who will join us for these services--your presence will bless us. If you have questions or need a ride, please call 334-5146821.

• St. Vincent de Paul OUR LIFE’S JOURNEY is a service of St. Vincent de Paul Church and airs weekly from 8:00-8:30 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. July 24 - Marriage and the Eucharist part 1 July 31 - Marriage and the Eucharist part 2 August 7 - Making Catholic Moral Decisions (Jim Toner) August 14 - Making Catholic Moral Decisions (Jim Toner) August 21 - By Faith Alone part 1 August 28 - By Faith Alone part 2 September 4 - Which Came First part 1 September 11 - Which Came First part 2 • Westside Baptist Church Will celebrate it’s 54th anniversary on July 24. Dr. Robert Keeton, missionary with Rock of Ages Prison Ministry, will be preaching in the morning service. Lunch will be served afterwards. There will also be special music. There will be no evening service on the 24th. • Mount Olive Baptist Church Glory be to God! Mt. Olive Baptist Church will be celebrating their 18th pastoral anniversary of Rev. L.D Holstick and First Lady Minister, Twinita Holstick. The celebration will be on July 24 at 2:30 p.m.

Mt. Olive members, family and friends come join us as we celebrate this glorious anniversary for our pastor. Our guest speaker will be Rev. Jerry Humpry, pastor of Liberty Hill Baptist Church in Wetumpka, AL. Liberty Hill Baptist Church congregation will also accompany him. We would like for everyone to come worship with joy, love and giving thanks for the man chosen by God to be our shepherd. We are looking forward to seeing all of our brothers and sisters of Christ here to make a joyful noise unto the Lord, and also give thanks to our pastor. • Oak Valley Station United Methodist Homecoming celebration on Sunday July 24 at 11am. Steve MacInnis will bring the morning message. There will be a covered dish luncheon immediately following the morning worship service. Revival will begin Sunday night, July 24 at 6 p.m. Revival will continue through Wednesday, July 27 at 7 p.m. each evening. There will be a covered dish supper each evening at 6:15 p.m.. Browning Wood, Youth Minister, St. James United Methodist Church in Montgomery, will bring the Revival messages. Oak Valley Station United Methodist Church is located at 161 Parsonage Road, Tallassee. Please make plans to come and worship with us! • Carrville Baptist Church Community Join us for our Blessing of the Backpack on Sunday, July 31 at 10:30 a.m. and then

our 5th Sunday Outreach Dinner at 6:00 p.m. On Tuesday, Aug., 6-9 a.m., we will be hosting a FREE community drive-thru breakfast. So please come by on your way to work and pickup a sausage, bacon or butter biscuit to enjoy. Our regular Sunday Services are Sunday School 9:15 a.m., morning worship 10:30 a.m. and all Sunday evening activities are at 6 p.m. Our Wednesday night activities are at 6:30 p.m. • Faith Foundation Holiness Church Monday, Aug. 1 through Saturday, Aug. 6 at 7 p.m. each night. Climaxing on Sunday, August 7, 2016 at 3 p.m. Pastor: Bishop Marvin Freeman and Overseer: Apostle Quentin Freeman. For more information contact Mot. Gloria Freeman at 334-991-4026 or Sis. Shannetta Daniels at 334-415-5019. • 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 334312-4913. All proceeds raised by ETUMC will be used for church-sponsored programs.

Area Churches AME ZION Mt. Zion Chapel AME Zion 2340 Crenshaw Rd., Wetumpka 567-4413 Rogers Chapel AME Zion 709 W. Bridge St., Wetumpka 567-8144 Jackson Chapel AME Zion 4885 Coosada Rd., Coosada Jones Chapel AME Zion 2414 Ingram Rd. (Co. Rd. 3), Elmore ABUNDANT LIFE Abundant Life Church 9301 U.S. Hwy 231., Wetumpka 567-9143 ASSEMBLY OF GOD Agape Tabernacle Assembly of God 1076 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic 541-2006 Bethel Worship Center 11117 U.S. Hwy 231., Wetumpka 5675754 Crossroads Assembly of God 2534 AL Hwy 14., Millbrook 285-5545 First Assembly of God 3511 Shirley Ln., Millbrook New Home Assembly of God 5620 Caesarville Rd., Wetumpka 5692825 BAPTIST Abraham Baptist Church Millbrook Antioch Baptist Church 1115 Antioch Rd., Titus 567-2917 Beulah Baptist Church 2350 Grier Rd., Wetumpka 514-2881 Blue Ridge Baptist 4471 Jasmine Hill Rd., Wetumpka 5674325 Brookwood Baptist Grandview Rd., Millbrook Calvary Baptist 504 W. Osceola St., Wetumpka 567-4729 Central Baptist 3545 W. Central Rd., Wetumpka 541-2556 Coosada Baptist 20 Kennedy Ave., Coosada Deatsville Baptist 184 Church St., Deatsville Eclectic Baptist Church 203 Claud Rd., Eclectic 541-4444 Faith Baptist 64 Chapel Rd., Wetumpka 567-4417 First Baptist Church 205 W. Bridge St., Wetumpka 567-5191 First Baptist of Elmore Hwy. 14 Co. Rd. 74, Elmore Galilee Baptist 95 Old Georgia Rd., Wetumpka 567-4178 Good Hope Baptist 1766 S. Fleahop Rd., Eclectic Goodship Baptist Hwy. 143, Millbrook Grace Baptist Old Montgomery Hwy., Wetumpka 567-3255 Grandview Pines Baptist Deatsville Hwy., Deatsville Green Ridge Baptist 288 Turner Rd., Wetumpka 567-2486 Harvest Baptist 2990 Main St., Millbrook

Hillside Baptist 405 Old Montgomery Hwy., Wetumpka Holtville Riverside Baptist 7121 Holtville Rd., Wetumpka 514-5922 Lake Elam Baptist 4060 Gober Rd., Millbrook Liberty Hill Baptist 61 Crenshaw Rd., Wetumpka 567-8750 Lighthouse Baptist 2281 Main St., Millbrook Living Water Baptist 1745 Grass Farm Rd. (Co. Rd. 80), Weoka Millbrook Baptist Millbrook 285-4731 Mitts Chapel Baptist 935 Cold Springs Rd., Deatsville 5691952 Mt. Hebron West Baptist 150 Mt. Hebron Rd., Elmore 567-4441 Mountain View Baptist 1025 Rifle Range Rd., Wetumpka 5674458 New Harmony Baptist 3094 New Harmony Rd., Marbury 3121878 New Home Baptist 1605 New Home Rd., Titus 567-0923 New Hope Baptist 6191 Lightwood Rd., Deatsville 569-1267 New Lily Green Baptist 6504 Deatsville Hwy., Deatsville New Nazareth Baptist Hwy. 143, Deatsville Pleasant Hill Baptist Pleasant Hill Rd., Eclectic 541-3460 Prospect Baptist Prospect Rd., Eclectic 567-5837 Redland Baptist 1266 Dozier Rd., Wetumpka 567-8649 Rehoberth Baptist 8110 Rifle Range Rd., Tallassee 567-9801 Rushenville Baptist 10098 Georgia Rd., Eclectic 541-2418 Saint James Baptist 1005 Nobles Rd., Wetumpka 567-6209 Saint James Baptist 101 Gantt Rd., Deatsville 569-3006 Santuck Baptist 7250 Central Plank Rd., Wetumpka 567-2364 Seman Baptist Seman, Alabama Shoal Creek Baptist 13214 Holtville Rd., Deatsville 569-2482 Springfield Baptist Hwy. 7, Millbrook Thelma Baptist 810 Weoka Rd., Wetumpka 567-3665 Titus Baptist 6930 Titus Rd., Wetumpka 334-531-2120 Tunnell Chapel Baptist 210 Central Plank Rd., Wetumpka 567-2589 Victory Baptist 5481 Main St., Millbrook Wadsworth Baptist 2780 Hwy. 143, Deatsville 569-2851

BAPTIST - MISSIONARY Atkins Hill 565 Atkins Rd., Wetumpka 567-1141 Cathmagby Baptist 3074 Mitchell Creek Rd., Wetumpka 567-4787 First Missionary Baptist at Guilfield 412 Company St., Wetumpka 567-7455 Goodhope 1389 Willow Springs Rd. Wetumpka 567-7133 Lebanon 17877 U.S. Hwy. 231, Titus 514-1097 Mount Canaan 1125 Weoka Rd., Wetumpka 567-2141 Mount Pisgah 16621 U.S. Hwy. 231, Titus 567-3668 Mt. Zion 371 AL Hwy. 14, Elmore, 567-2613 Mt. Zion #3 1813 Luke Paschal Rd., Eclectic New Home 5130 Elmore Rd., Wetumpka 567-5966 Second Missionary 760 N. Bridge St., Wetumpka 567-8601 Spring Chapel Jasmine Hill Rd., Wetumpka 567-6493 Sweetwater 163 Michael Lane, Wetumpka 334-5389415 Tabernacle Baptist 1020 W. Tallassee St., Wetumpka 5670620 BAPTIST - PRIMITIVE Bethel Old School 4625 Jackson Rd. (C.R. 103), Wetumpka Providence 4850 Chana Creek Rd., Wetumpka CATHOLIC Our Lady of Guadalupe 545 White Rd., Wetumpka 567-0311 CHURCH OF CHRIST Church of Christ of Elmore 470 Caesarville Rd., Wetumpka 567-6670 Church of Christ Grandview Pines 165 Deatsville Hwy., Millbrook Cold Springs Church of Christ 5920 Alabama Hwy. 143, Deatsville Georgia Road Church of Christ 4003 Georgia Rd., Wetumpka 567-2804 Lightwood Church of Christ 251 New Harmony Rd., Deatsville 5691510 Redland Road Church of Christ 2480 Redland Rd., Wetumpka 514-3656 Wetumpka Church of Christ W. Bridge St. At W. Main St., Wetumpka 567-6561 CHURCH OF GOD Elmore Church of God 10675 Rucker Road, Elmore Gethsemane Church of God 705 Cotton St., Wetumpka 567-9886 Church at the Brook 2890 Hwy. 14, Millbrook Maranatha Church of God

2621 Holtville Rd., Wetumpka 567-6786 Victory Tabernacle AOH Church of God Hwy 143, Millbrook Wetumpka Church of God Hwy. 9 N. Wetumpka 215-3091 CONGREGATIONAL CHRISTIAN Cedarwood Congregational Christian 10286 US Hwy 231 N, Wetumpka 5670476 Seman Congregational Christian 15970 Central Plank Rd., Seman Union Congregational Christian 8188 Lightwood Rd., Marbury 569-2122 EPISCOPAL The Episcopal Church of the Epiphany 2602 Gilmer Ave., Tallassee 252-8618 Trinity Episcopal Church 5371 U.S. Hwy. 231, Wetumpka 567-7534 St. Michael & All Angels Church 5941 Main St., Millbrook HOLINESS New Beginnings Holiness 865 Crenshaw Rd., Wetumpka 567-9211 Summit Holiness 2050 Hwy. 14, Millbrook Temple of Deliverance Holiness 620 Alabama St., Wetumpka 514-3114 JEHOVAH’S WITNESS Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses 9235 U.S. Hwy. 231, Wetumpka 567-8100 LATTER DAY SAINTS Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints 1405 Chapel Rd., Wetumpka 567-8339 Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints Cobbs Ford Rd., Millbrook LUTHERAN Christ Lutheran Church 2175 Cobbs Ford Rd., Prattville PRESBYTERIAN First Presbyterian Church 100 W. Bridge St., Wetumpka 567-8135 Millbrook Presbyterian Corner of Main St. & Coosada Rd. Valley View Presbyterian - PCA 4125 Rifle Range Rd. Wetumpka 3862386 SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST First Elmore Seventh Day Adventist 210 Lucky Town Rd., Elmore 514-1020 INDEPENDENT METHODIST Claud Independent Methodist Church 81232 Tallassee Hwy, Eclectic 541-2552 UNITED METHODIST Cain’s Chapel United Methodist 96 Lightwood Rd., Deatsville 569-2375 Central United Methodist Church 11721 Central Plank Rd. Central Elmore United Methodist Church

40 Hatchet St., Elmore 567-8653 First United Methodist Church 306 W. Tuskeena St., Wetumpka 5677865 First United Methodist Church 3350 Edgewood, Millbrook Harmony United Methodist Church 8000 Titus Rd., Titus Mulder Memorial United Methodist 3454 Fire Tower Rd., Wetumpka 567-4225 New Style United Methodist 64 Old Georgia Plank Spur, Wetumpka 567-9840 Oak Valley Station United Methodist 162 Parsonage Road, Tallassee 541-3924 Pierce Chapel United Methodist 1003 Pierce Chapel Rd., Santuck 2656099 Providence United Methodist 1540 Providence Rd., Titus Robinson Springs Methodist Church 5980 Main St., Millbrook Trinity United Methodist 135 Little Weoka Creek Rd., Equality 567-9997 Union United Methodist 691 Central Rd. Eclectic Wallsboro United Methodist 11066 US Hwy. 231, Wetumpka CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE Millbrook Church of the Nazarene 3251 Browns Rd., Millbrook PENTECOSTAL Faith Deliverance Church 475 Jackson St., Elmore 567-9209 OTHER Central Bible Chapel 3630 Edgewood Rd., Millbrook Chapel of Praise Hwy. 14, Millbrook Cornerstone Full Gospel 9301 US Hwy. 231, Wetumpka 567-9143 East Chapel MP Church Airport Rd., Millbrook Grace Bible Church 2251 Main St., Millbrook Gracepoint Community Church 78223 Tallassee Highway, Wetumpka 514-9292 New Life Church - Millbrook Sanctuary Worship Center 1688 Ceasarville Rd., Wetumpka Servant Fellowship Church P O Box 1423, Wetumpka 567-2190 servantfellowshipchurch@windstream.net The Worship Center 2705 Williams Rd., Wetumpka Time of Refreshing Fellowship 117 E. Bridge St., Wetumpka 567-7750 Victory Temple (Pentecostal church) 1173 Old Montgomery Hwy., Wetumpka 567-7779 Words of Life Church 105 Cousins Rd., Wetumpka 514-2730

Pet of the Week – Holley

Submitted / The Herald

Holley is a Shepherd mix, four years old, about 70 pounds and just a wonderful girl who came back to us because while she is great with children and other dogs, she is NOT good with free ranging chickens. She can be a bit of fence escape artist to get at those chickens but if no chickens, really a wonderfully perfect dog. Our adoption fees are $100 for dogs and $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 and Sat 9-3.

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JULY 21, 2016 • PAGE 7

ALL ABOUT HORSES

HORSE WORD FIND

For centuries, horses have been an important part of human society. They have been used for work purposes, transportation, sports, and for show. Until the automobile became available to all people, horses were a major source of transportation. Today, the power of an automobile is still referred to as its “horsepower.” There are many different breeds of horses, but they are divided into three main categories: ponies, light horses, and heavy horses. A pony is a small horse with shorter legs and a stout body. Ponies are very strong for their size and are good horses for riding training. A light horse is a horse that is typically fast and nimble. Thoroughbreds, the elite racing horses, are light horses. A heavy horse, also known as a draft horse, is a larger horse, mostly used for work, such as the large Clydesdale. Perhaps the most famous horse is the white Lipizzaner. These horses are known for their graceful movements, and when trained well, they almost appear to be dancing. Many of them are white in color, although they can dark as well. The largest horses in the world today are draft horses, such as the Clydesdales, Belgians, and the Shires. The smallest horse known today is the Falabella from Argentina. Horses are popular among children. The rocking horse is a very old toy still enjoyed today. Ornate and colorful replicas of horses are made for carousels and for some children the ultimate pet would be a pony. Horses have also been at the center of many works of literature, such as The Black Stallion and Black Beauty. A horse represents the Knight piece on a chessboard.

HORSE CROSSWORD Across Clues:

5. Horse replicas go around on this. 8. Largest horses in the World. 7KRURXJKEUHGV DUH FODVVL¿HG DV" Down Clues: 1. What are the most prized horses in WKH :RUOG" 2. A classic novel written about a horse. $ VPDOO VL]HG KRUVH LV FDOOHG D ZKDW" 4. Large work horses are in which FODVVL¿FDWLRQ RI KRUVH"

6. A horse represents this piece on a chess board. $Q HQJLQH¶V SRZHU LV UDWHG LQ ZKDW" 9. The smallest horse breed in the World. Crossword Ans: Across-5)carousel 8) Belgian Draft 10)Light Down- 1)Lipizzaner 2)Black Beauty 3)Pony 4)Heavy 6)Knight 7)Horsepower 9)Falabella

Andalusian, Appaloosa, Arabian, Boer Pony, Brandenburger, Buckskin, Clydesdale, Finnhorse, Lipizzaner, Minature, Mustang, Paint, Palomino, Pinto Horse, Quarter Horse, Saddlebred, Thoroughbred, Welsh Pony, White Horse 1.

CONNECT THE DOTS

HORSE WORD SCRAMBLE

1. LEYLDACES __________ 2. ARPILZEPIN __________ 3. OBDTHOHRUEGR ___________

Answers: 1)Clydesdale 2)Lipizzaner 3) Thoroughbred

Unscramble the letters WR ¿QG ZKDW type of horse is shown.

A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO ALL OUR SPONSORS! James Hamner 26 Cambridge Dr. Wetumpka, AL 36092 (334) 567-5156 jhamner@alfains.com

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PAGE 8 • JULY 21, 2016

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256-234-3981

Alexander City (Lake Martin) www.russellmedcenter.com

Systems Administrator (FT) (ISD) Fitness Specialist (4 YR Degree) EVS Aid II (ﬂoor specialist) Physician Liaison (Marketing) RN ICU/Step-Down (PRN) RN Med/Surg (PRN) RN OB/PEDS (PRN)

RN (FT) Student Loan Reimbursement Program Sleep Lab Tech (RPSGT) Med. Technologist (MT)(PRN/FT) Surgical Technologist (FT) Central Sterile Tech (PRN) Patient Registrar/Skilled Tech

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

Security Pest Control “The best against pests”

THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

JULY 21, 2016 • PAGE 9

Area Calendar JULY 20

Please contact Recreation Department if you are interested in a Self Defense Class 283-4726. Class would consist of situational awareness, prevention, recognition of criminal behavior and some physical defense. This is NOT a mixed martial class. Class would meet one-week night approx. 2 hours and Saturday approximately 8 hours. Cost is $45.

July 30

BENEFIT SINGING: An evening of music a benefit concert for the Old Red Hill School Saturday, July 30, 2016 in the Red Hill School Auditorium on Alabama Highway 229 in Red Hill. Acts include Cecil Malone & Montgomery Junction at 3 p.m., Cowboy Bill and Company at 5 p.m., and The Kevin Adair Band at 7 p.m. Donations will be welcomed at the door to help replace the roof the old school building. Food, soft drinks, coffee and a family atmosphere will be offered.

July 31

BACK TO SCHOOL: Calvary Baptist Wetumpka will be hosting our Annual “Back -2- School Bash on July 31 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. For more information on this event, please contact the church office 334-5674729 or visit our website www.calvarybaptistwetumpka.org

August 13

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

August 26-27

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

ONGOING EVENTS August 1-4

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

August 8

Southside Middle School Open House

August 8

Tallassee Elementary will hold open house for Kindergarten beginning at 11 a.m. and 11:20 a.m. First grade Open House will be at 12:20 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. Second grade open house begins at 1:40 p.m. and 2:20 p.m.. Third grade open house begins at 3 p.m. Fourth grade open house begins at 4:20 p.m. and 5:00 p.m.

August 8

Open house for the 2016-2017 school year from 12:00 -7:00 p.m.

August 8

Freshman Orientation 6:00 p.m. at Tallassee High School.

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

11-22. Registration fee for Tiny Tots is $55 and Levels 1-6 will be $65. You may register at Recreation Department until Thursday, May 26 and after May 26 please register at pool. CHILD FIND: The Tallassee City School System is launching its annual campaign to assist children—birth to age 21—who have disabilities and may need special services. The campaign urges parents, service providers, and concerned citizens to contact Child Find, a program to locate, identify and evaluate children with disabilities or children who are believed to have disabilities. The Tallassee City School System wishes to notify you of the availability of special education services in our public schools. If you have questions regarding our programs, or if you wish to refer a student, please contact Lynell Carr at (334) 2835675 or Child Find (Alabama Department of Education) at 1-800-548-2547.” ART EXHIBITION: There is a free exhibit of sixty-five works of art by the late Priscilla Crommelin featuring vibrant still life and floral paintings, portraits and landscapes at the Kelly Fitzpatrick Memorial Gallery Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Kelly Fitzpatrick Memorial Gallery. TENNIS LESSONS: Grassroots Tennis Association will be offering (8) Weeks of Free Tennis Lessons this Summer throughout the rural and inner city underprivileged communities. A player can become a recipient of Free Tennis Lessons by contacting this organization before (May 27th, 2016) by calling (334-439-8198). SUMMER READING PROGRAM: Readers of all age will explore all thing sports and fitness this summer as Wetumpka Public Library presents “On Your Mark, Get Set, Read” during their summer library program. The 2016 Summer Library Program is open to young people, preschool, through young adult, with programs, prize drawings, story times and more. Preschool Story Time for infant through those entering kindergarten is on Tuesdays and Fridays at 10 a.m. this is a year round program. Summer program for those entering first through sixth grade will meet Tuesday afternoon from 2:00 – 3:00 p.m. at the Wetumpka Civic Center beginning June 14 – July 26. The Teen Program for

those entering seventh and up will meet Thursday afternoons beginning June 16 – July 28 in the Library for movies. Registration begins May 2, 2016. You may download a registration form from our website: www.wetumpkalibrary.com or come in for a copy. For more information you may call 334-567-1308. Find us on Facebook. All programs are free. SATURDAY NIGHT JAMBOREE: Every second and fourth Saturday of the month is the Highway 231 Saturday Night Jamboree at the Alabama League of the South Cultural Center Building at 12814 Highway 231 North in Wetumpka. There will be country, gospel, and rock and roll music in a good atmosphere. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. with music from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. There will be line dancing, no alcohol, no smoking and no charge. Donations accepted for upkeep of the building. Contact Ray Funderburk at R&R Music and things at 334-991-4682 or 224-8509804 with questions. SANTUCK FLEA MARKET: First Saturday, March-December, dawn to 2 p.m in the area surrounding Santuck Baptist Church. An outdoor flea market with booths featuring arts, crafts, antiques, novelties, imports, food and more. Free admission to the public with free parking available. For info, call 334-567-7400. BLUEGRASS JAM: First Saturday, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Alabama River Region Arts Center, Wetumpka. All acoustic instruments welcome - guitar, banjo, mandolin, fiddle, bass, singers. Beginner, intermediate, advanced and listeners. For info, call 334-578-9485. SIT AND SEW: First Saturday of each month, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Alabama River Region Arts Center, Wetumpka. All sewers and knitters welcome. Bring your own sewing machine or hand-sewing project. Assistance and encouragement to help you through your project. Ironing board and iron provided. Free. For info, call 334-578-9485 or visit www.arrac.org. POTTERY CLASS: Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Alabama River Region Arts Center, Wetumpka For age 16 and older. $80 for four classes or $20 per week. Taught every Saturday by Rick Bowman. Bring your own tools or use art center tools. Center provides other supplies. For info, call 334313-1646.

PAGE 10 • JULY 21, 2016

SPORTS

Visit our sister website: TallasseeTribune.com

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER

ECHS’S FLOYD READY FOR NORTH-SOUTH ALL-STAR GAME

Cory Diaz / The Herald

Left, Elmore County star running back Kell Floyd (17) runs with the football during kickoff drills at the South team’s practice at Trinity Presbyterian School Monday in preparation for the 57th annual North-South All-Star Game today. Right, Floyd (17) looks in a pass during the South team’s practice at Trinity Presbyterian School Monday in preparation for the 57th annual North-South All-Star Game today.

By CORY DIAZ Sports Editor

One more time to have fun. One more time to find that Friday night feeling. That’s what a trio of local players have found this week, practicing with the 37-person South squad in preparation for the 57th annual AHSAA North-South All-Star Football Game, kicking off Thursday at 7 p.m. at Cramton Bowl in Montgomery. Elmore County star running back Kell Floyda and Wetumpka cornerback Ty Humphrey reported for the showcase Sunday, hitting the football field for the first time in eight months, while Wetumpka’s Rod Thrasher was an AllStar game late addition on Monday. Stanhope Elmore standout and Troy University signee B.J. Smith was selected to the North-South Game, but

elected not to participate. Voted by his teammates as a team captain, Humphrey guided a young Indian secondary – the unit’s lone upperclassmen – in 2015 before suffering a season-ending knee injury midway through the season. “It’s been a minute for me because I tore my MCL and PCL during the season,” Humphrey, who plans to walkon at Troy, said Monday at practice. “It feels good to be back on here, have fun, to have at least one more time to be on the field. “Watching (my teammates) on the field on Friday nights wasn’t the same. This gives me one more opportunity to have fun, be a part of a team. It’ll be great to have the decal back on (my helmet), hadn’t had one in a while. Represent Wetumpka and do the best we can. We’ve got to that ‘W’ on Thursday.”

Floyd amassed 1,636 yards on offense and scored 18 total touchdowns for his senior campaign. At the free safety position on defense, the 5-foot10, 160-pound athlete paced the Panthers with 61 tackles and had one interception, two fumble recoveries, one of which he returned for a touchdown. Garnering First-Team All-Area honors at running back this season, Floyd said Monday he was happy to be able to showcase his talents with some of the state’s best. “They’re good, I’m good,” Floyd, the Lenoir Rhyne (Hickory, N.C.) signee who leaves Aug. 9, said. “I just hope the South get the ‘W.’ I just got to get my legs back under me, get back used to it, and keep on moving because there’s a lot of talent out here. I just need to showcase my talents. It’s just fun. To be with the other greats, just being able to be out here, have fun.

“It was great for me to get back used to running. I think I’m going to be ready for the college level.” Initially not on the roster, Thrasher fielded a call from Wetumpka head football coach Tim Perry Monday morning with an offer to join the South team. Thrasher, who will play defensive back for the first time since eighthgrade in the showcase game, didn’t hesitate. “I was just happy. I didn’t think I’d get to play at first; I really wanted to play,” Thrasher, who plans to attend Alabama A&M before joining the military, said. “It’s fun meeting new people and playing with them. Getting a different experience with a bunch of other people. “I’m excited. Anything to make me feel like I’m back on Friday nights I’ll get excited.”

Eclectic 10U All-Stars repeat as state runners-up By CORY DIAZ Sports Editor

Eclectic settled for second again. A year removed from placing runner-up in the state, the Eclectic softball 10U All-Star squad fell short of the National Softball Association Alabama championship, losing to Dekalb, 12-8, on June 25 at Mill Creek Park in Millbrook. “This year was different, we actually the team we played in the championships game, 19-0,” the 10U All-Star team manager Patrick Burkett said. “Then, we had to turn around and play them again in a ‘what-if’ game because we got in the loser’s bracket, and we just ran out of gas. That championship game didn’t start until 2:30 in the morning.” The title contest loss at Mill Creek Park wrapped up a 20-hour day that saw Eclectic open with two straight wins before dropping its first game to Dekalb, 7-6. In the semifinals of the loser’s bracket, the girls rebounded to eliminate Alexander City, 9-3, and demolish Dekalb, 19-0, and set up the winner-take-all final game. Experience helped guide the group of all stars back through the state tourney field, as Kynslee Bishop, Ky’Asia

Brown, Abbie Burkett, Madison Byram, Allyson Orr, Anabella Orr and Hannah Winn returned off last year’s second-place team. “We had seven returning girls from last year. We felt better this year about it though; we felt like this was the year,” Burkett said. “To come up short, having seven girls returning from the team that finished second in state, it was something to be confident about. “The pitching was good, and the bats came around. They were hot. It was a group, team effort. All of it clicked at the right time.” But in the championship game, Dekalb jumped on top early, knocking Eclectic off its rhythm and held them off for the state title. “It was hard for them. Eventually, it’ll come,” Burkett said. “Maybe next year, it’ll come. It’ll be the team from last year back together. Next year, I believe it will be our year. You got to keep them positive, and the biggest thing is they wanted it so bad. They’re hungry now. “For a small town, to pick from 24 girls, to come in second in the state two years in a row, it’s a special group.”

Submitted / The Observer

The Eclectic 10U Softball All-Stars came in second place in the National Softball Association Alabama State Tournament June 25. The team is: Kynslee Bishop, Ky’Asia Brown, Abbie Burkett, Madison Byram, Maddie Clark, Taylor Ann Eason, Allyson Orr, Anabella Orr, Tori Parsons, Morgan Spear, Taylor Spear and Hannah Winn. Coaches are Patrick Burkett, Jessie Byram, Greg Orr, Jeff Orr and Clay Winn.

Elmore County High QB Club offers season ticket packages By CORY DIAZ Sports Editor

With kickoff to the 2016 Elmore County High School football season a little over a month away, fans and supporters looking for reserved seats to all Panther home games still have a chance to reserve them. The ECHS Quarterback Club is selling reserved season ticket packages for $50, which includes one ticket to all five Panther homes games at a discounted admission rate and one parking pass (valued at $10) in the preferred parking lot behind the home side stands that has easy entrance/exit access to the bleachers. There is a limit, so reserved spaces are first-come, first-serve.

All reserved seats are directly in front of the pressbox near midfield. Desired location of the seats are on a first-come, first-served basis. Back for the second straight season is the $25 concession stand combo package, which contains a meal at all five home games. Fans will have the choice between a hamburger or a hot dog, fries and a drink (valued at $6, separately). The Club would like to have all reservations in before Elmore County’s first home game, the season-opener on Aug. 19 versus Montgomery Academy. For more information about reserved seating, contact Renae Venable at (334) 541-2131.