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Pet of the weekKittens!

A memorable Memorial Day

2016 All-Area Softball Team

Eclectic Observer Page 4

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The

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THURSDAY • JUNE 9, 2016

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

Vol. 27, No. 23

Players denied access to public field By WILLIAM CARROLL Managing Editors Submitted / The Observer

This grainy image taken from video shot by Keith Golden shows the conclusion of an incident that Golden said he captured as part of a “video audit” of the Wetumpka Police Department.

FILMING FLAP

City hit by reaction to recording of Wetumpka Police Department

By COREY ARWOOD Staff Writer

Recent actions of Wetumpka police are under scrutiny after a video was published online that appeared to show officers in an exchange with a local man who was filming the police department. Wetumpka police said on Tuesday the department had to shut down its phone lines due to an overload of calls from across the country in response to

WANT TO SEE THE VIDEO? The video can be found at https:// youtu.be/a8B-OW4SoIM. Need more information? Contact Keith Golden at bamafootballfirst@ gmail.com

SEE THE CITY’S RESPONSE: The statement issued in the matter of the arrest of Keith Golden can be found on page 7.

OPINION: Managing Editor William Carroll weighs in on police video controversy.

Local man arrested after video he took of Wetumpka PD goes viral

By COREY ARWOOD Staff Writer

The man behind the camera in the recent video involving Wetumpka police, was arrested Tuesday afternoon on what Wetumpka police said were charges of interfering with governmental operations, after his video caused a city-wide stir from reactions of viewers who called in from across the nation.

See VIDEO • Page 2

Today’s

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FRIDAY: HIGH 93 LOW 69

The Town of Eclectic Council meeting Monday lasted deep into the night, but it was a non-agenda item that garnered the most focus and several area parents and kids spoke in some detail regarding their inability to use the town’s public ball fields. Parent Brandy Isenhour spoke on behalf of the Thundercats travel softball team. Isenhour asked the town council for permission to use the town’s softball fields from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. on Sundays. Isenhour’s husband David also spoke on behalf of the parent of young girls playing on the team. “I coached travel ball for three or four years,” See COUNCIL • Page 3

Elmore County School Board holds marathon session, votes on long-standing issues By COREY ARWOOD Staff Writer

Elmore County Board of Education held a meeting with a full agenda’s worth of issues spanning items that generated at times heated discussion. The discussions even included the personal testimony of those advocating for See SCHOOL • Page 3

See ARREST • Page 7

New Ivy Creek Cafe’ opens at Elmore Community Hospital By WILLIAM CARROLL Managing Editor

The Ivy Creek Café is now open to the public for lunch and the hope is it will eventually expand into breakfast and dinner options as well in the near future. The café inside the Elmore Community Hospital is now upgraded, with a new menu and new options for patients, families of patients and local diners. Hospital Administrator Michael Ritzus said that the new restaurant was part of an ongoing improvement plan for the hospital. Ritzus stated that having a top notch cafeteria is an important component of a community hospital. “We are not looking to compete with other restaurants in the area,” Ritzus said. “Our goal is to have an impact on overall patient satisfaction.” Ritzus said that the first step in improving the café was to hire a top class chef, which Ritzus was able to do in the form of current head chef Gary Garner, who has over 20 years experience in fine dining. “We offer country dishes with a spin,” Ritzsus See CAFE • Page 2

William Carroll / The Observer

Wetumpka Mayor Jerry Willis cuts the ribbon for the new Ivy Creek Cafe at the Elmore Community Hospital Monday afternoon.

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TheWetumpkaHerald.com

THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER

Video the video. It was posted online by a Coosada man who maintains a YouTube channel of videos in which he records mostly public agencies, such as police and corrections departments for what he calls “First Amendment Audits,” or tests. In the video, a man, off camera, appears to be approached and questioned by officers about his identity and reason for filming. According to the author, shortly after having his camera turned off and temporarily taken, he was detained against a van by an officer who held his arm behind his back. However, Keith Golden, a 43-year-old retired Army staff sergeant from Coosada, had a secondary camera, and was live streaming the incident to a website with his cell phone. Several exchanges are documented in the nearly eight-minute video taken by Golden. During one such instance in the video an officer could be heard telling Golden as a reason for questioning him, that he could possibly be a terrorist, and he could not be sure if Golden was not. In the officer’s initial exchange with Golden on the video he appeared dissatisfied with a response Golden gave and said “What you out here doing filming? OK. I’m asking why you’re filming, I don’t care about your First Amendment rights I’m asking why you’re filming.” Golden could be heard saying he was a journalist gathering information for a story. He was then asked to leave by another officer. Later, yet another officer appeared and seemed to take a different approach, asking Golden why he was filming, responding he did not have to tell him and asked whether he wanted to talk. Ultimately, Golden’s camera was returned, and he was allowed to leave. The video has spurred strong reactions from viewers, and was said by its author to have generated the highest number of views in a 24-hour period compared to his other projects.

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Wetumpka police have said there is no official comment at this time, while officials with the city have said they received numerous calls about the incident and were referring the callers to the city attorney. On Monday afternoon one of the WPD social media pages was taken offline, as well as the city’s page. As of Tuesday both were still down, and adding to the confusion the WPD phone lines were unavailable for some time Tuesday with a message that said technical difficulties were at fault. However, prior to the social media page being taken offline Monday, posts were made to the page of previous interactions Golden said he had after filming at the location. The comments, from Golden, appeared to show Golden thanking and praising the WPD for not interfering with his project previously. The date of the comment appeared to be Nov. 17, 2015. Golden said he felt someone was trying to whitewash the incident and clear up bad publicity. On Tuesday police officials said no comment would be made about the incident. However, Monday afternoon, Golden said he received a call from an anonymous caller who identified himself as a representative of one of the officers in the video. The caller, Golden said, asked if he would accept an apology from the officer, to which Golden said he would respond with an answer at a later time. He said he also had “tips” about potential suspensions and classes the officers were potentially going to have to take. However, Chief Danny Billingsley flatly denied those claims. Golden maintains a YouTube page called Bama Camera, where he has a collection of videos he calls “First Amendment Audits.” The description of the page says only, “Citizen Journalists and 1st Amendment Activists,” and the videos show numerous encounters of him filming various private and public entities.

These audits or “tests” Golden says are about transparency. Golden discussed with The Herald his reason for conducting the tests, the results of local agencies, the good and the bad, and why picked up a camera roughly one year ago. “What it’s all about in a nutshell is about transparency and accountability that’s the whole thing,” said Golden. “That’s what it boils down to we have the right to film public officials while they’re doing their jobs in the scope of their duties, as you will. “This is even referenced by a 11th circuit decision that is 16 years old now, 16 years old, called Smith versus Cumming.” That court decision was what Golden said he handed the officers in the video. He said out of his roughly one-year making the videos he considered Montgomery police and corrections to be the gold standard. And he followed by saying of Elmore County law enforcement that he “can’t say enough good things about Elmore County.” He said his reasons behind this project came from instances in his youth, along with his experiences in the military during the high points of conflict in Afghanistan in 2006 to 2007, and later in Iraq in 2010 to 2011. “What my channel really is about is helping people understand their rights, not only you know civilians, but law enforcement as well,” Golden said. He said he understands that some people may think what he does could be considered “baiting,” but he said he calls it testing. And while he said he considers himself an activist, he assured us the act was legal, and not a type of civil disobedience. “A lot of people say I want a reaction, I do this for a reaction, my whole purpose when I started doing this was to prove everyone wrong, I wanted to prove in Alabama this doesn’t happen, they don’t violate rights here in Alabama,” Golden said.

Cafe said noting that Garner takes traditional southern favorites and varies them slightly to provide a new experience. “My favorite is honestly the fried green tomato BLT,” he said. Ritzsus notes that the hospital spent quite a lot of time working on the menu which will allow customers a meat plus two sides option to include a bread option, desert and a drink all for under $10.

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“We wanted the flexibility to control the menu,” Ritzsus said. “A lot of times people say they hate hospital food, I don’t want anyone saying that about our hospital. The plan, according to Ritzsus, is to eventually expand the lunch options into breakfast and dinner as the café expands. The hospital also wants to provide meals on the weekend. Wetumpka Mayor Jerry Willis, who was on hand for the ribbon cutting ceremony for the new café, said he was excited to see the restaurant open again. “This a good day for Wetumpka and Elmore County,” he said.

Obituaries Thomas Bryant

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Mr. Thomas Bryant, 81, of Eclectic, passed away June 3, 2016. He was born June 3, 1935. Visitation will be held from 6-8 p.m., Sunday, June 5, 2016 at Good Hope Baptist Church. Funeral services will be at 11 a.m., Monday June 6 at Good Hope Baptist Church with The Rev. Kenny Hill officiating. Burial will follow at Good Hope Cemetery, Linville Memorial Funeral Home directing. He is survived by his wife, Linda Bryant; children, Teresa Scalco (Bob), Dianna Walls (Tim), Sheila Falcon (Robert), Sheri Evans, Kelli McGhee (Daniel) and Eddie Bryant (Crystal); sisters, Lorene Donahoo, Nell Hobbs (John) and Shirley Aldridge (Chuck); 17 grandchildren; 14 great grandchildren and one great great grandchild. He is preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Hattie Bryant; son, Thomas Jeffrey Bryant; brothers, Melvin Bryant, LD Bryant and Charles Bryant; and sisters, Zelmer and Mary Will. Flowers accepted or donations may be made to Good Hope Baptist Church, Cemetery Fund, 1766 S. Fleahop Rd, Eclectic, AL 36024. Online condolences at www. linvillememorial.com. Linville Memorial Funeral Home Eclectic, Alabama

THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

Council

JUNE 9, 2016 • PAGE 3

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Isenhour said. “It has never been a problem until now. I want to know why.” The why, at least according to the parents at the meeting, is a dispute between the Thundercats and the Eclectic Youth Ball League. Thundercats Team Captain Destiny Duckett said that the girls were told they were not allowed to practice on the field two weeks ago. Coach Eddie Stevens was more direct. “I started the Thundercats in 2008,” he said. “These girls have nowhere to play.” Stevens stated that Patrick Burkett with the EYBL, who was not present during the meeting, was the reason for the problems the Thundercats are facing. “Patrick came down and hollered at these kids,” he said, noting that it was Patrick who refused to let the team use the field. Eclectic Mayor Gary Davenport, in response to the question asked by David Isenhour, stated that the EYBL has a contract with the town for the use of the fields. “There is a contract where they have use of the field until the end of July,” he said. “Also the months of October and November for Fall Ball.” According to Davenport, there is a clause in

the agreement that allows the council the right to allow other people to use the park as long as advance notice is given to EYBL and there is no conflict. “They are not using it for free,” he said. “They pay part of the utilities and they have to pay for some of the upkeep. In essence they are renting it.” Davenport said that the issue is that the EYBL does not want the Thundercats on the field. “Basically their (EYBL) board of directions said we don’t want them (Thundercats) up there.” Other parents spoke during the meeting about their interactions with Burkette and how he runs the EYBL. One coach of another travel ball team said he was not allowed to play in a recent tournament because the EYBL didn’t like him. The council took no action on the allegations presented by the parents of Thundercats players, but did state they would continue to attempt to resolve the issue. In other matters before the council: • The council took some time during the meeting to discuss the Cotton Festival. Davenport said that the council would need to consider an alternate date for the festival as early September would

School

not work for area schools or vendors. He suggested October 29 as a possible date. No action was taken on the matter. • The council voted to approve a MutliJurisdictional Mitigation Plan with Elmore County and its constituent cities. Davenport said the agreement was a mutual aid type plan in case of emergencies. • The council also approved a resolution and ordinance amendment for the upcoming 2016 elections. The ordinance amendment amended the time for elections to be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. to be in compliance with state law. The general election will be August 23 for the election of mayor and five council members. The qualifying period to run is from July 5 to July 19 at 5 p.m. • The council approved recommending speed limit changes throughout the city lowering the limits in several area to slow traffic in the area around the new Dollar General store.

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

continued from page 1

changes to home schooling policies. The issue of the evening, as the meeting ran over two hours, involved a recommendation to accept a policy for the state’s newly mandated virtual school program. The program was passed through state legislation in the latest legislative cycle, leaving school systems to determine how to implement the program, explained Gene Czerpak, administrative assistant to the superintendent. Steve McKenzie, the interim assistant superintendent of secondary schools and student services, and Jimmy Hull, director of Elmore County Technical Center, presented the draft of the policy to the board. Chairman Larry Teel heavily questioned McKenzie regarding elements of the policy, its writing and how it could be interpreted, while other board members voiced that they did not want to “handcuff” themselves early on by making the language of the policy too specific. Ultimately, after discussion and substantial input from nearly all board members, the policy was passed with stipulations for future revisions. Czerpak said the program was different from home schooling, and allowed students access to computerized curriculum, which would then go to a physical location for testing every nine weeks. Homeschooling was brought up at the meeting, but in regards to whether those students should be allowed to participate in Elmore County Schools’ sports programs sponsored by the Alabama High School Athletic Association.

The board voted to pass the Superintendent’s recommendation that would allow homeschool students to participate in specifically AHSAA-sanctioned sports. Czerpak said discussion about cheer and dance team participation would be revisited since tryouts and teams had all ready been established. Also, a construction bid for Holtville High School and Wetumpka Elementary parking lots were voted on, along with a cafeteria freezer, small ware and contracts for food items.

BBQ FESTIVAL & COOK-OFF June 10-11, 2016 June 10th Activities: 9am: BBQ Cook-Off Check-In at Bell Park 1pm-3pm: Quilt Show at Tallassee City Hall 4pm-7pm: Karaoke Contest at Bell Park 6pm-8pm: Tailgate Partners BBQ Bulk Meat Sales (Tallassee Stadium) 7:30pm: Tallassee Now Fun Run 5K (Registration 6:30pm) 7pm-until: Music at Bell Park featuring Kevin Adair Band

June 11th Activities: Shuttle Service Pick-up/drop-off (Stadium to Downtown & Tours) 8:00 am - 3:00 pm Mt. Vernon Theatre Farmers Mkt. / Theatre Tours 7:00 – 11:00 am 10:00 am – 2:00 pm tours Dovard Taunton Art/Authors’ Book Signing/Wine Tasting Trophy Room 9:00 am – 1:00 pm Tours of Lake Thurlow Power Plant Board Shuttle at Tallassee Stadium 9:00 am – 12:00 pm Entertainment/Live Music Tallassee Stadium 10:00 am – 2:30 pm KidZone Tallassee Stadium 10:00 am - 2:00 pm BBQ Plate Sales Tallassee Stadium 10:00 am – 1:00 pm Car Show Tallassee Stadium 10:00 am – 2:00 pm Antique Guitars Show Tallassee Stadium 10:00 am – 2:00 pm Confederate Armory Tours Board Shuttle at Tallassee Stadium 10:00 am – 2:00 pm Quilt Exhibition/Public View Tallassee City Hall 9:00 am – 2:00 pm Tallassee Falls Museum Museum 10:00 am – 2:00 pm Art Show Trustmark Lobby and Annex 10:00 am – 2:00 pm Cook-Off Continues -Judging /Presentation 11:30 am Taster’s Choice BBQ Sample Tasting & People’s Choice Vote Bell Park 1:00-2:00 pm Awards Presentation 2:00 pm

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

PAGE 4 • JUNE 9, 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.

A memorable Memorial Day

was so incredibly honored a few months ago when I was asked to be the speaker at Opelika’s Memorial Day services. I was even more honored when I got behind the Fuller podium and looked out at the sea of veterans in the crowd, because I know Memorial Day is as sacred a day to them as it is to me. Most of us have brothers and sisters who never made it home. I’ve spoken to everyone from coroners at a convention in Orange Beach to troops on the Pakistani border in Afghanistan. I’ve spoken in 28 states and 14 countries. No sweat. It’s easy. Memorial Day was different. I was nervous and I choked up repeatedly. Although there is often a serious side, my routines are usually packed with humor. That can be done at Veterans Day events, which celebrate and honor living veterans; however, on Memorial Day, we honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice. I wanted to do justice to the fallen, many of whom I knew personally. My two soldiers were hit by a roadside bomb on April 4, 2004. One died instantly and the other died three days later. During my research, I discovered that Dusty Hiller, a young man from Opelika, was killed the same day. What are the chances of that happening? That brought everything full circle. It brought things home. I got very little sleep the night before. I was up at 4:45 a.m. as I attempted to craft the perfect speech. The festivities in Opelika didn’t kick off until 10 a.m., but I had other business to attend to beforehand. My friend and Medal of Honor recipient Command Sergeant Major Bennie Adkins was being recognized at Auburn’s Annual Mayor’s Memorial Day Breakfast at The Hotel at Auburn University &

Dixon Conference Center, so being there was a no-brainer. I was also able to take along two friends: WWII veteran Earl Sumners and Miss America 2013 Mallory Hagan. After a few words with CSM Adkins after the event, Earl and I slipped out so we could get back to Opelika. I kind of needed to be there. Mallory went to the lake with some friends. We made it to city hall with just a few minutes to spare, which is really the story of my life—just in time. I started out with just a little humor, including a couple of sweet notes I got from children while I was deployed. In addition to the wonderful veterans and their families, it was great to see many friends in the crowd, as well. I never did craft the perfect speech, but I did have bullet points on a cheat sheet. The funny thing is that I seldom looked at it. I just talked. The only time I really did was when I quoted John 15-13. Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. I will never forget the fallen and am so thankful for all who serve. I’m also thankful for both Mayor Gary Fuller of Opelika and Mayor Bill Ham of Auburn for their commitment to and support of local veterans. I am fortunate in many ways to call Opelika-Auburn home. Many people see Memorial Day as the unofficial start of summer, a long weekend, or a day at the lake. It’s not. It’s so much more than that, but that’s ok. There were a few empty tables in Auburn. Up until last week, it bothered me that more people didn’t show up for such patriotic events. However, after preparing for this speech my outlook has changed. Men and women have died to give these folks the right to spend this most sacred of patriotic holidays any way in which they please. That’s what freedom is all about. With that being said, Miss America proved that both can be done. Honor the fallen. Never forget. 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

I do care about First Amendment rights T he Wetumpka Police Department and the City of Wetumpka have been feeling a little heat this week, ever since a video created by Keith Golden went viral regarding his interaction with three Wetumpka Police Officers. The story of course is detailed on the front page of today’s Eclectic Observer, so I will not go into all of the details here, but a few facts are pertinent to our discussion. Golden operates a YouTube page he calls Bama Camera. The site consists of a number of videos depicting what Golden calls “First Amendment Audits.” These audits are primarily videos taken of police and other governmental employees. In some respect these videos do have a tendency to “bait” officers or other employees into questioning Golden as to his activities. Of course Golden states that baiting officials is not his intention, but it is oftentimes a consequence of these actions. Many will argue that this is all Golden is doing, simply setting up a situation that makes officers more likely to ask him questions, and more likely to potentially accost him. This is true to a degree, but the real point is that Golden is doing absolutely nothing wrong or illegal by videotaping police stations or police officers. As a former prosecutor, I can tell you that officers are trained in how to deal with all sorts of people, from regular everyday citizens, to drunks, drug addicts, the mentally ill, violent, suicidal and a whole host of other types. The reality is that officers should be able to handle citizens exercising their constitutional rights without resulting to force or by taking away property belonging to citizens. Anyone who watches the video can see that the officer takes Golden’s camera from him during the incident, unbeknownst to the officer though, Golden continues to record the incident.

WILLIAM CARROLL

Managing Editor

The real issue is not so much what the officers do, but what one of them says. During the discussion, prior to the taking of Golden’s camera, one of the officers is clearly heard to say, “I’m asking why you’re filming, I don’t care about your First Amendment rights. I’m asking why you’re filming.” When I was prosecuting criminal cases I can tell you if I would have ever heard a police officer utter these words to anyone for any reason, especially on a videotape I would have had it out with the officer and his supervisor. Some might argue that the officer didn’t really mean what he said, but that is something an officer should never say, and especially when he knows he is being videotaped. It is not only unconscionable, it is just plain dumb. This country is built on a number of precepts, but the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution stands as one of the highest. “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.” Freedom of religion, speech, the press, to assemble and petition the government for a redress of grievances, these are sacred and important rights to our way of life. Where our government, both federal and state, are constantly whittling away at our rights, we need our local governments to honor and respect the rights we hold most dear. We can’t have

officers of the law not caring about the Constitution and effectively illegally contacting someone exercising their rights. The police department is already taking quite a bit of abuse from this incident with phone lines being tied up by people who are either associates of Golden, or who have watched the video calling to complain or otherwise press the department into some kind of action. The thing is, Golden isn’t just doing this on his own, his site is tied to a number of other similar sites, all of which consist of people who either share his interests or who have their own agendas. In reviewing some of the comments posted on our own site, there are those who question police conduct to those who are openly hostile to the Wetumpka Police Department. Some of them are going so far as to berate the officers involved and the department itself. The thing is the WPD is not a horrible department, there are a number of good officers there, and also like a lot of places, there are probably a few bad apples as well. This incident doesn’t necessarily speak to the whole department, but it is a wake-up call. The one thing the city and PD cannot do is ignore the situation. My guess is that the groups that are currently hounding the department and the city will only grow more vocal as the department continues to issue “no comment” statements about the incident. I’m not necessarily saying that the officers should be publicly flogged in front of the courthouse, but the department should acknowledge that the situation was unfortunate and inappropriate and act accordingly. If we look at nationwide trends, issues like this get worse because officials chose not to meet it head on and deal with the problem. That is always the best course of action.

Lunch with the governor and a Buick on the stairs

hile observing the legislature the other day, I fondly remembered a very eventful day as a youth. As a teenager, I grew up working at the Capitol as a page in the House and Senate. Albert Brewer had been elected to the House from Morgan County in his late 20s and became Speaker in only his second term. He would eventually let me sit beside him in the Speaker’s box and tell me why certain bills were assigned to the proper committee and the probable fate of the proposed legislation. Brewer ran for lieutenant governor and won in 1966. At that time, the lieutenant governor not only presided over the Senate, he controlled it with help from Gov. George Wallace. Brewer took me with him over to the Senate and made me head of the senate pages. Brewer confided in me and made me somewhat of an aide de camp at age 15. I had also become acquainted with our young, fiery, dynamic governor, George Wallace, who will go down in history as probably Alabama’s greatest politician. Wallace had a remarkable ability for remembering people’s names. On this particular day, I was roaming around the Capitol with one of my page buddies from Anniston when Wallace bounced out of his office and asked if I and my friend wanted to have lunch with him. He was swarmed by people as he ate his lunch in the old cafeteria in the basement of the Capitol. Wallace’s practice was to campaign

Inside the Statehouse By Steve Flowers in barber shops and beauty parlors all over the state. He asked me about every barber in Pike County by name and then turned to my friend and asked him about every barber in Anniston by name. It was amazing. He also had a habit of eating a hamburger steak every meal. It is not uncommon for folks to put ketchup on hamburger steak, but I watched in amazement when he poured ketchup all over his black-eyed peas, turnip greens and cornbread too. He put ketchup on everything he ate. Heinz missed a good chance by not using him in a commercial. I was on cloud nine after getting to have lunch with the Governor of Alabama. I bragged to every state senator and then meandered out to the rotunda where the legendary Miss Mittie sat on her bench knitting. She knew where every state senator and representative was at all times. We had become friends and she trusted me. As the lieutenant governor’s aide and head senate page, I needed to ask her where senators were from time to time. I proudly told Miss Mittie that I had eaten lunch with the governor. Without missing a beat she said, “I guess that little sawed off so and so put ketchup on

everything he ate.” The old lady not only knew where everybody was, she knew how the governor ate his food. This also told me she did not like Wallace. The Senate was debating a bill that was important to Gov. Brewer and Wallace. A decision had to be made whether to break for supper. I had gotten to know the Senators pretty well. One was the most powerful member of the Senate, Joe Goodwyn from Montgomery. Old Joe had a serious drinking problem. Most nights he headed to his favorite spot, the Sahara Restaurant, for dinner and libations. Gov. Brewer called the restaurant and old Joe headed back to the Capitol. Since Joe had been told his vote was urgent, he drove his Buick up the Capitol steps and made it almost to the Jefferson Davis star. His car’s transmission was on the second step. Minutes before we heard the news of old Joe’s spectacular arrival, I ambled out to ask Miss Mittie if she knew where Sen. Goodwyn was. She said, “Somebody parked in his parking place and he had to park on the Capitol steps.” It was obvious to me that she did not like Wallace, but she liked old Joe Goodwyn. See you next week. Steve Flowers is Alabama’s leading political columnist. His weekly column appears in over 60 Alabama newspapers. He served 16 years in the state legislature. Steve may be reached at www.steveflowers.us.

THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

Summer heat can be deadly to your pets By REA CORD Executive Director Humane Society of Elmore County

While the official first day of summer is a couple of weeks away, no doubt our Alabama heat has already arrived. There is no better time than right now to make sure your pets are prepared for the impending nonstop heat. Pet owners need to remember that our dogs and cats don’t sweat like we do so they have to pant to try and control their body temperature. But panting can only cool them down so much so planning is in order if you are going to undertake activities with your pet in our hot weather. Just like us our pets need unlimited clean, cool water. Make sure your pets have plenty of fresh water and that it is located in a shaded area to help it stay as cool as possible. Many dogs will benefit from having a children’s plastic wading pool full of nice cool water that they can get into if it gets too hot and those are readily available at local stores for a very small price. And box fans are also cheap and can help your pet as well – think of how much better you feel in front of a fan on a hot day. If you have outside dogs with dog houses, those houses must be under adequate shade otherwise they will turn into mini-ovens unsuitable for protecting your dog from the elements. And if you think an unshaded

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Alabama heat can UMANE OCIETY seriously injure or kill a pet (or child) left in a parked car OF LMORE very quickly. We OUNTY encourage citizens to call your local police and report any pets in parked cars during hot weather so they doghouse is adequate can take appropriate shelter for your pet, actions. And if you just crawl in one as leave your vehicle runthe temperatures hit the 80s-90s and see for ning with the air-conditioning on for your yourself how ‘comfy’ pet, still make sure that it is. Better yet, stick you don’t do that for a thermometer inside too long as mechanical and you will see why failures could occur your dog avoids it so that the A/C is no like a fire ant bed. Of longer cooling and the course, our wish is for results could be devasdogs and cats to join tating. in the fun inside your For those that travel home so they can enjoy with their dog in the the air conditioning or back of a pickup truck, fans with their human how about putting your family. hand on the truck bed If you like taking on a 90+ degree day your pet with you in and you will feel that your vehicle and the it is much too hot to be outside temperature is safe for your dog and probably above about can cause bad burns to 70 degrees, then you the pads of your dog’s MUST think ahead in feet. Put your dog in regards to your itinerthe cab of the truck ary BEFORE leaving with you so it too can the house. This time enjoy the air conditionof year it is generally better to leave your pet ing and your company. Before shaving a at home than take any long-coated dog thinkchance on it having ing it will help them, to stay in your car for please talk to your any length of time no veterinarian as dogs matter how quick you think your stop will be. can get sunburned and overheat faster If you do have your because they have no pet with you in hot protection from the weather, please make sun. For those with sure that you will not ‘short-nosed’ dogs like be stopping anywhere Bulldogs, Pugs, Boston where your pet must stay in the car for more Terriers and more, please just keep them than 2-3 minutes as

C NEWS

in air-conditioning as many of these breeds simply cannot handle the heat and will suffer heatstroke or death if left out in the high heat, even if they have shade. Our pets are not super beings able to withstand conditions that we don’t like ourselves. If you are miserable in the heat, your pet is too so please plan accordingly to keep your pet safe and happy throughout our long Alabama summer.

JUNE 9, 2016 • PAGE 5

PAGE 6 • JUNE 9, 2016

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Religion Briefs •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. June 12 - Sola Scriptura part 1 June 19 - Sola Scriptura part 2 June 26 - One Church part 1 July 3 - One Church part 2 July 10 - Once Saved Always Saved July 17 - Apostolic Authority and the Pope 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

• Carrville Baptist Church Community News

Join us for our Submerged Vacation Bible School, Monday, June 6 through the 10, from 9 a.m.-12 p.m for children ages Kindergarten- sixth grade. Family night will be Wednesday, June 8, 6:30 p.m. Our regular Sunday services are Sunday cchool 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 pm.

•St. Paul United Methodist Church

Fish Fry will be Saturday, June 11 starting at 10:30 a.m.

•Bethlehem East Baptist Church

You’re invited to Vacation Bible School “Submerged”. Dive in and join us! June 6 -10 from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. Family night is June 10 beginning at 6:30 p.m.

•Salem Macon Baptist church

is having VBS June 12 - 15. The title is " Submerged," diving into God's Word. Hours are Sunday 4 - 7:30; Monday & Tuesday 5:30 - 7:30; And Wednesday, Family Night 6 p.m.. All children invited. Come, bring someone with you and plan to have fun learning about God's Word, playing games, and eating good food.

•Elam Baptist Church

Located at 4686 Notasulga Road, Tallassee, Alabama, Hwy 14 will have “SUBMERGED” Vacation Bible School 2016 June 19 – 23, Sunday through Thursday from 6 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. each evening through sixth grade. The kids will experience an adventure like no other, deep within the mysterious seas. As they submerge themselves in God’s Word and discover that Jesus didn’t just see what’s on the outside of people but looked deep down on the inside. So grab your goggles, step into your flippers and dive in to find truth below the surface with us at “SUBMERGED”!

Everyone is invited and welcome. Join us!

•St. Paul United Methodist Church

Homecoming service will be June 26 at 11 a.m. with Pastor Rev. Hazell Stoudmire, speaker of the hour Rev. Houston Martin from JACOM Church in Tallassee

•St. Paul United Methodist Church

Revival service will be held at St. Paul United Methodist Church June 27-29 at 7 p.m. Speaker The Rev. John Jackson from Oak Grove No. 4 Baptist Church in Fitzpatrick, AL. William Carroll / The Observer

• East Tallassee United Methodist Church

The “River’s Edge Flea Market” is open every Saturday from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. All vendors are welcome: new items, old items, crafts, youth groups, ball teams, baked goods, produce and food. The flea market is sponsored by the East Tallassee UMC and is located across from City Hall. We will offer various priced booths. To reserve a space call Joan Wood at 334-312-4913. All proceeds raised by ETUMC will be used for church-sponsored programs.

•St. John All Nations Pentecostal Foundation Church

3495 Hwy 14 Notasulga, AL 36866. Minister Alma Purter, pastor. Welcome, welcome, welcome! We look forward to your presence. Program committee: Sis. Brenda Moss 334-401-0706, Sis. Linda Pullium 334-2093208 and Sis. Judy Moss.

Kids learn to build bird houses at the 2015 Elmore County JAKES event.

JAKES event promises fun activities for area youth By WILLIAM CARROLL Managing Editor

Saturday at Fort Toulouse State Park the Elmore County Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation will host its annual JAKES event with registration for the event starting at 7 a.m. JAKES, which stands for Juniors Acquiring Knowledge, Ethics and Sportsmanship is a program started by the NWTF in 1981 to provide outdoor opportunities for youth. The Elmore County Chapter has been in existence for 19 years and according to former Chapter President Phil Savage, the group has offered a JAKES program for several years. “People around here support the NWTF really well, we wanted to have something for the kids in the area to be able to do,” Chapter President Gene Calhoun said. The event is free to all youth ages 17 and under. Participating youngsters will receive a one-year membership in the NWTF and a JAKES T-shirt.

According to Calhoun the event will consist of several stations with activities for kids including: archery, sling slot, tomahawk throwing, air rifle marksmanship, muzzle loader and shotgun shooting, how to build bird houses, face painting and more. “We have a lot of stuff that is very interesting for the kids,” Calhoun said. “We know a guy who is a helicopter pilot and he brings his helicopter down, the kids really get a kick out of it,” Savage said. Calhoun said that the event is expected to draw around 175 to 225 kids. “Our event is has grown to be one of the largest JAKES events in the state of Alabama,” Savage said. Calhoun added that kids come not only from Elmore County, but all around the area for a chance to participate. Kids will also get a chance to enjoy lunch at the event. “Everything is totally free for the kids,” Calhoun said. “The money for the event is donated by local businesses so that we can offer this to the kids.”

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 567-5754 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 569-2825 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 567-4325 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 569-1952 Mt. Hebron West Baptist 150 Mt. Hebron Rd., Elmore 567-4441 Mountain View Baptist 1025 Rifle Range Rd., Wetumpka 567-4458 New Harmony Baptist 3094 New Harmony Rd., Marbury 312-1878 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 5672364 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 5674787 First Missionary Baptist at Guilfield 412 Company St., Wetumpka 567-7455 Goodhope 1389 Willow Springs Rd. Wetumpka 5677133 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 334-538-9415 Tabernacle Baptist 1020 W. Tallassee St., Wetumpka 567-0620 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 569-1510 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 567-0476 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 386-2386 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

306 W. Tuskeena St., Wetumpka 567-7865 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 265-6099 Providence United Methodist 1540 Providence Rd., Titus Robinson Springs Methodist Church 5980 Main St., Millbrook Trinity United Methodist 135 Little Weoka Creek Rd., Equality 5679997 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

First United Methodist Church

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PAGE 6 • JUNE 9, 2016

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER

Religion Briefs •St. Vincent de Paul

• Carrville Baptist Church Community News

Wednesday night activities are at 6:30 pm.

•St. Paul United Methodist Church

Fish Fry will be Saturday, June 11 starting at 10:30 a.m.

•Bethlehem East Baptist Church

You’re invited to Vacation Bible School “Submerged”. Dive in and join us! June 6 -10 from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. Family night is June 10 beginning at 6:30 p.m.

•Salem Macon Baptist church

•Elam Baptist Church

Everyone is invited and welcome. Join us!

•St. Paul United Methodist Church

Homecoming service will be June 26 at 11 a.m. with Pastor Rev. Hazell Stoudmire, speaker of the hour Rev. Houston Martin from JACOM Church in Tallassee

•St. Paul United Methodist Church

• East Tallassee United Methodist Church

•St. John All Nations Pentecostal Foundation Church

Kids learn to build bird houses at the 2015 Elmore County JAKES event.

JAKES event promises fun activities for area youth By WILLIAM CARROLL Managing Editor

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 569-1952 Mt. Hebron West Baptist 150 Mt. Hebron Rd., Elmore 567-4441 Mountain View Baptist 1025 Rifle Range Rd., Wetumpka 567-4458 New Harmony Baptist 3094 New Harmony Rd., Marbury 312-1878 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 5672364 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 5674787 First Missionary Baptist at Guilfield 412 Company St., Wetumpka 567-7455 Goodhope 1389 Willow Springs Rd. Wetumpka 5677133 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 334-538-9415 Tabernacle Baptist 1020 W. Tallassee St., Wetumpka 567-0620 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 569-1510 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 567-0476 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 386-2386 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 567-7865 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 265-6099 Providence United Methodist 1540 Providence Rd., Titus Robinson Springs Methodist Church 5980 Main St., Millbrook Trinity United Methodist 135 Little Weoka Creek Rd., Equality 5679997 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

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

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CITY RESPONSE

Editors Note: This is a copy of the press release submitted by the City of Wetumpka regarding the incident involving the Wetumpka Police Department and Lynwood Keith Golden printed verbatim as received from their offices. The Wetumpka Herald makes no claims as to the truth or veracity as to any of the allegations contained in the city’s release. Submitted by Tiffany Robinson Assistant to the Mayor Special Events/Tourism Manager The Wetumpka Police Department has been the subject of a viral video produced by Bama Camera operator Lynwood Keith Golden. On June 2, 2016, Mr. Golden came to the Wetumpka Police Department and began filming the building with multiple cameras. Mr. Golden had

TheWetumpkaHerald.com no visible identification and officers approached Mr. Golden to ask who he was and to request his purpose of filming the department. Mr. Golden refused to identify himself or his reasoning for the film, so his actions were deemed suspicious to the officers. After a brief investigation, Mr. Golden was deemed to be no immediate threat and released at that time. No complaint to the Wetumpka Police Department has been filed by Mr. Golden at this time. After filming the interaction with the officers, Mr. Golden posted video to his Bama Camera YouTube website along with contact information of the City of Wetumpka, the City of Wetumpka employees and elected officials. As the Wetumpka Police Department became aware of this, other YouTube videos posted by Bama Camera were identified on the site called 1st Amendment Audits. Bama Camera has been to multiple government locations, to include FBI buildings, military installations, private secure facilities and local

Arrest Lynwood Keith Golden said at roughly 9:30 p.m. Tuesday he had only been out of Elmore County Jail for about an hour after having paid his bail. He said he was arrested by Elmore County Sheriff’s Office, which was serving a warrant from the Wetumpka Police Department. Wetumpka Police Chief Danny Billingsley confirmed the arrest. Billingsley said Golden was interfering with governmental operations by causing interference with emergency services of the city. The interference Billingsley said was coming from roughly 500 to 600 calls to Wetumpka

law enforcement locations to perform these “audits.” Mr. Golden posts all these videos to his page and has a following of other activists that focus on the transparency of government. Bama Camera shares these videos and encourages his associates via internet to begin mass communications to the facilities he films. This sparks computer generated calling to the parties filmed in the videos, social media attacks on the municipalities involved, family members of officers and civilians, emails to the local governments and threats to the officer’s lives. The mass calls jam the phone systems blocking general information calls, alarm company notifications to the department and the inability to call other agencies for assistance. Due to the structure of the Wetumpka Communications Center, this blocks the Wetumpka Police Department’s ability to notify ambulance and fire service of emergency calls. Due to the intentional acts of Bama Camera and Keith Golden, the phone system

JUNE 9, 2016 • PAGE 7

of the Wetumpka Police Department was jammed to the point of crippling our communications system. Calls have been obscene, threatening and racially motivated and hindering dispatchers from answering 911 calls. The Police Department Facebook page was attacked by Bama Camera affiliates, forcing the department to unpublish the page to prevent our citizen’s from being contacted through private messages with racial slurs and spam emails. The Wetumpka Police Department emergency domestic violence shelter was also forced to close due to the lack of manpower to properly manage the facility to assist dispatchers in fielding calls. Due to the chaos created, Lynwood Keith Golden of Coosada, was arrested for Interference with Public Safety Communications on 06/07/2016. The Wetumpka Police Department local 911 line is still functioning properly, so all emergency calls for service can be answered by dispatchers.

Call classifieds 256.277.4219

continued from page 1

Police Department, which was said to have effectively shut down the phone lines earlier Tuesday. When it was initially learned the WPD lines were down, a WPD officer attributed it to calls coming in from all over the country. Those calls were in response to a video posted online to a YouTube channel Golden maintains called Bama Cameras. The channel only states in its description “Citizen Journalists and 1st Amendment Activists,” the videos are for the most part called First Amendment audits, or tests. The WPD project was

only one in many Golden has shot throughout the state, mostly of police and corrections departments. Golden said Elmore County Sheriff’s officers showed up at his home, and notified him of the warrant and told him to gather his belongings. He was adamant that the ECSO was “very nice” about the arrest, and gave him time to get together what he needed. After that he said his hands were placed behind his back and he was transported to jail. Check out the video in question at https:// w w w. y o u t u b e . c o m / watch?v=a8B-OW4SoIM.

Submitted / The Observer

Pet of the weekkittens Kittens, kittens, kittens! ‘Tis the time of year for kittens and we have many of all colors looking for their forever homes. Our kittens ready for adoption are in the 9-12 week old range and just as cute and sweet as can be! Orange tabbies, brown tabbies, gray tabbies, black and white, black, gray, short coat, long coat, you name it, we are likely to have it over the summer and they would much rather be playing in your home than our cat rooms. The 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. 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. Go to our website at www.elmorehumane.org for more information, email hselco@bellsouth.net or give us a call at 334-567-3377. The shelter is open for adoptions Monday–Friday 10-5 and Saturday 9-3.

JOBS available

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

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

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

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

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

Please email resume to marketing @alexcityoutlook.com

ClassiÄeds

Lake & River Fax (205) 669-4217

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

The Alexander City Outlook

The Dadeville Record

Phone (256) 277-4219

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

The Eclectic Observer

The Tallassee Tribune

The Wetumpka Herald

DIESEL TECHNICIAN NEEDED! Full-time. Must have experience. Great Pay with Beneﬁts.

Please Contact Patterson Truck Parts

256-234-3981

Alexander City (Lake Martin) www.russellmedcenter.com

RN ICU/Step-Down (FT/PRN) Sleep Lab Tech (RPSGT) Medical Tech (MT)(PRN/FT) RN Med/Surg (PRN) Surgical Technologist (FT) RN OB/PEDS (PRN) Social Worker (LBSW) (PRN) RN (FT) Student Loan Reimbursement Program Central Sterile Tech (PRN) Fax: 256/329-7335 or Phone: 256/329-7345 jsherman@russellmedcenter.com

THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

JUNE 9, 2016 • PAGE 9

Area Calendar June

POOL OPENING DAY: Pool season for 2016 continues through Saturday, July 30. Hours of operation will be Monday-Saturday from 1 p.m.-5 p.m. Daily pass is $3 per day and individual pass is $45, family pass for up to four in same household is $60 and five or more $75 for season. SUMMER LUNCH PROGRAM: Free summer meals for kids and teens will be served in Tallassee. Meals will be provided to all children without charge. Acceptance and participation requirements for the program and all activities are the same for all regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability. Call 283-6864 for location and other information. SUMMER READING PROGRAM: Summer Reading program at Tallassee City Library begins. For more information, call 283-2732.

June 10-11

TALLASSEE NOW: Tallassee Now event is set for June 11 at Bell Park and J.E. “Hot” O’Brien Stadium.

concert June17 at 7 p.m on the Wetumpka Depot Players Depot Stage. Local children will have the opportunity to have a private jam session with Jessica prior to the concert and will perform a song or two with her at the end of her performance. Tickets can be purchased by calling 334868-1440 or online at wetumpkadepot.com. To sign children up for your activities including the opportuinity to sing with Jess, contact Kristy Meanor, Depot executive director.

June 17-18

BASKETBALL CAMP: Birmingham Southern Basketball Camp begins. For more information call coach Hollinquest at (256) 404-2657 or call the high school (334) 2832187.

June 18

WOMEN’S CELEBRATION: Cain’s Chapel UMC is hosting a celebration of women June 18 at 5 p.m. in Deatsville. There will be a meal. The guest speaker will be Kim Hendrix. Come and enjoy the fellowship of other “girls.” Tickets are $15 and only available before June 14.

June 13-July 8

SWIM LESSONS: First session of swim lessons for ages 4 and up (must be 4 by time of lesson) will be June 13-June 24, Second session will be June 27-July 8 (closed July 4) Third session will be July 11-22. Registration fee for Tiny Tots is $55 and Levels 1-6 will be $65. You may register at Recreation Department until Thursday, May 26, and after May 26 please register at pool.

JUNE 13

6 p.m. City Council Meeting at City Hall

JUNE 14

6 p.m. Tallassee Planning Commission meeting at TallasseeCity Hall

June 14-16

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL: The Wall Street AME ZION Church at 71 Zion Street in Tallassee is hosting vacation Bible School June 14-16 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. The Rev. Edwrin Sutton is the host pastor. Preschool children to adults and ministers are invited to take part in this fun-filled Bible program. For more information contact Mrs. Jeannetta Brooks at 334-283-2594.

June 17

CONCERT: Jessica Meuse will perform a

June 21

SILENT AUCTION: Get a number and bid on a variety of items featuring the 11 artists from the Do You See What I See? event between June 21 and June 28 at the Kelly Fitzpatrick Memorial Gallery. The artists are Kathy Atchison, Hope Brannon, Bobby Carr, Toska Courbon, Mary Ann Goodhue, Rebecca Grice, Carol Hickman, Manjula Kumar, Tara Sartorius, Angela Sullivan and Melissa Tubbs. Besides art, gift baskets arranged by Judy Ruffer, Sandra Logan and Mary Alice Spear will be offered. All money raised goes to the Kelly Fitzpatrick Memorial Gallery. TUESDAY’S WITH KELLY: Brown Bag “lunch and learn” event June 21 from noon to 1 p.m. at the Kelly Fitzpatrick Memorial Gallery. Drinks and desserts provided. Speaker is Donny Tomlin who will share his knowledge of Japanese Maples. Mary Wolfe will play her pocket violin. Layken Morgan will recite a poem. Door prize will be awarded.

June 23

BEEKEEPING CAMP: The Central Alabama Beekeepeers and Elmore County 4-H are hosting a beekeeping camp June 23 and 24 from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. for ages 9 to 14. Take a look into the fascinating world of

LAKE MARTIN: $449,000 Near CHIMNEY ROCK with Boat & Swimming Dock

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honey bees and see the role they play in our everyday lives. Registration is $30 and includes a t-shirt and snack. Participants must bring a sack lunch. For more information and to register contact Allyson Andrews at 334-799-2254 or call at allyson.andrews@icloud.com

June 25

Central Alabama Comprehensive Health, Inc will hold the Annual Recognition and Silent Auction and Roast of the Honorable Deborah H. Biggers, District Court Judge. Supporting Honorees: The Honorable Miles D. Robinson, commissioner district 1, Macon County Commission. Dr. Fazel Martine, CEO of Prime Care Medical. This event will be held Saturday, June 25 at 2p.m. at the Tuskegee Municipal Complex in Tuskegee, AL. Donations are $25. For more information or to purchase tickets contact Maggie Antoine at 334-339-1202 or maggieantonie@charter.net.

June 27

BASKETBALL CAMP: Auburn University (Chuck Person Shooting Camp For more information call coach Hollinquest at (256) 404-2657 or call the high school (334) 2832187.

June 28

OPENING RECEPTION: Rebecca Gregory and Phyllis Kennedy chair a reception June 28 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Kelly Fitzpatrick Memorial Gallery in conjunction with the exhibition: Priscilla Cooper Scott Crommelin Life and Work. The exhibit features 65 vibrant still life and floral paintings, portraits and landscapes and is sponsored by the City of Wetumpka, Mr. and Mrs. Richard Ball, Dr. and Mrs. Spencer Coleman, Lt. Col. Quentin Crommelin, Jr., Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Fain, and Mr. and Mrs. Donald McConnell.

June 28-30

HOOPS CAMP: The Tallassee boy’s basketball team is hosting a summer camp June 28-30. The camp is for boys and girls ages 8-14 and will be grouped in ages 8-11 and 12-14. The camp will be held from 8 a.m. until 12 p.m. and will be run by the varsity coaches and players. There will be drills for shooting, ball handling and five-on-five drills. There will also be a contest for free throw shooting and a 3-point shooter contest. For more information call coach Cecil Hollinquest at (256) 404-2657 or call the high school (334) 283-2187.

July 8

WOODCARVING SCHOOL: The 31st Annual Southeastern Woodcarving School and Competition will be July 8 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Wetumpka Civic Center. For more information or to register go to www. centralalwoodcarving.com.

July 11 - 15

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL: Grace Baptist Church is hosting vacation Bible school July 11-15 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Registration begins at 5:30 p.m. each night. For more information or to pre-register, call 334-567-3255 or email at wetumpkagrace@ gmail.com Grace Baptist Church is located at 304 Old Montgomery Highway behind the Wetumpka McDonalds and Gassett Funeral Home. ONGOING EVENTS ART EXHIBITION: There is a free exhibit of 65 works of art by the late Priscilla Crommelin featuring vibrant still life and floral paintings, portraits and landscapes at the Kelly Fitzpatrick Memorial Gallery Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Kelly Fitzpatrick Memorial Gallery. 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 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 – 3 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. You may download a registration form from our website: www. wetumpkalibrary.com or come in for a copy. For more information you may call 334-5671308. Find us on Facebook. All programs are free.

SPORTS

PAGE 10 • JUNE 9, 2016

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER

2016 All-Area Softball Team First Team: Pitchers

Morgan Brown, Jr.

Kaylyn Dismukes, Fr.

Mary Beth Slater, Jr.

Julianna Thames, 8th

Record: 13-4 ERA: 2.28 Strikeouts: 57 Most improved pitcher in area, helped guide ‘Cats to third place in state tourney

Record: 25-11 ERA: 1.65 Strikeouts: 271 Posted best pitching stats including school record 11 shutouts, 3 no-hitters

Record: 17-11 ERA: 3.47 Strikeouts: 112 Second-best mark on this team in wins, strikeouts and threw a no-hitter

Record: 13-4 ERA: 2.48 Strikeouts: 58 Paced Lady Indians in ERA, threw two no-hitters along with 14 complete games

Edgewood Academy

Holtville

Wetumpka

First Team: Infield

Katelyn Carswell, Sr. Wetumpka

Caity Jo Lee, Jr.

Edgewood Academy

Elissa Brown, Sr.

Courtney Twiggs, Sr.

First Base Batting Average: .369 RBIs: 34, Runs: 37 Scored the second-most runs for Tribe, had 52 hits to only 10 strikeouts on year

Second Base Batting Average: .450 RBIs: 53, Runs: 43 Topped the area in RBIs, reached base 60 percent of at-bats, hit two home runs

Shortstop Batting Average: .640 RBIs: 18, Runs: 60 Alabama signee set state record for batting average, only struck out 4 times

Third Base Batting Average: .310 RBIs: 23, Runs: 17 Led all third basemen in RBIs, doubles (eight), on-base percentage (.407)

First Team: Catcher

Holtville

First Team: Outfield

Kelsie Cornelius, Jr.

Emilee Ellis, Sr. Edgewood Academy

Wetumpka

Batting Average: .438 RBIs: 41, Runs: 19 Collected an area-best 64 hits, 10 home runs, led all catchers in every statistic

Elmore County

Haley Mann, Jr.

Sydney McKissick, Jr.

Batting Average: .349 RBIs: 13, Runs: 41 Racked up 53 hits, including 14 doubles, in breakout year for Lady Bulldogs

Batting Average: .415 RBIs: 26, Runs: 33 Finished with a .430 on-base percentage, had position-best batting average,

Holtville

Batting Average: .345 RBIs: 13, Runs: 45 Topped area outfielder list in runs scored, on-base percentage (.662)

Wetumpka

First Team: Utility

Christina Bush, Sr.

Brooke Cooper, 8th

Riley Greene, Sr.

Batting Average: .348 RBIs: 14, Runs: 18 Named to AISA state All-Tourney team, ended with .574 on-base percentage

Batting Average: .282 RBIs: 19, Runs: 21 Ranked second among first basemen in hits (37), runs (21), pitched in 4 games

Batting Average: .267 RBIs: 21, Runs: 21 Went 4-2 with a save, 23 strikeouts, ended with five double, triple on season

Edgewood Academy

Holtville

Wetumpka

Second-Team & Honorable Mentions PITCHERS / Nicole Ferpes, So., Elmore County; D’Maria Matthews, Sr., Stanhope Elmore; Sherrell Matthews, Fr., Stanhope Elmore; Avery Roberts, Fr., Edgewood Academy; Honorable Mentions: Alyssa Beam, Fr., Elmore County; Haylee Brown, 7th, Edgewood Academy; Savana Culpepper, Jr. Holtville; Kierra Harden, 8th, Elmore County FIRST BASE / Marissa Campbell, Sr., Wetumpka; Honorable Mention: CJ Weldon, Fr., Edgewood Academy; SECOND BASE / MiKayla Holt, Jr., Wetumpka; Honorable Mention: Julia Porter, Jr., Holtville; SHORTSTOP / Alexis Austin, So., Wetumpka; Honorable Mention: Reagan Law, Sr., Holtville; THIRD BASE / Peyton Rodie, So., Edgewood Academy; Honorable Mention: Stephanie Eckstein, Jr., Elmore County; CATCHER / Braiden Denman, So., Stanhope Elmore; Honorable Mention: Kevi Hansen, Jr., Edgewood Academy OUTFIELD / Kallie Johnson, So., Edgewood Academy; Maris Stinchcomb, So., Stanhope Elmore; Cyndi Thornton, Fr., Holtville; Honorable Mentions: Morgan Cleveland, Sr., Holtville; Juaneka Patterson, So., Elmore County; Laken Watson, Sr., Wetumpka UTILITY / Katie Gilder, So., Stanhope Elmore; Madison McKee, So., Wetumpka; Kerstie Reynolds, Sr., Stanhope Elmore; Honorable Mentions: Katelyn Cole, Jr., Wetumpka; Cheyenne Davis, Sr., Stanhope Elmore; Kenzie Johnston, Fr., Edgewood Academy