April 21, 2016 Eclectic Observer by Tallapoosa Publishers

Holtville edges Elmore County.

“Trump following history of seduction.”

Looking for something? Check this weeks’s classifieds.

Eclectic Observer Page 4

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The

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THURSDAY • APRIL 21, 2016

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

Vol. 27, No. 16

School board deals with federal discrimination suit By CARMEN RODGERS Staff Writer

A lawsuit has been filed in federal court and a complaint made to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission against the Elmore County School Board by an employee over allegations of racially discriminatory hiring practices and retaliation. The charges were made by a Holley O’Dell, 42, and brought against a total of four defendants in the School Board – its superintendent, Andre Harrison, and three of O’Dell’s supervisors. The case is now pending in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of

Alabama Northern Division. The suit includes 19 pages worth of accusations that were presented to the court by O’Dell’s attorneys at the Montgomery law firm McPhillips Shinbaum and detail her accounts over a roughly two-year period. There were three counts brought against the School Board and presented in the suit: race discrimination, retaliation and a cold and hostile work environment. An email response from Superintendent Andre Harrison said, “We are in the process of reviewing the complaint and cannot comment on the ongoing litigation.”

One of O’Dell’s attorney’s, Joseph Guillot, said the EEOC complaint was made Feb. 16, and the suit brought formally against the school board March 30. He said they were awaiting a response and the Board was approaching its 21-day deadline to respond to the court on the allegations. The EEOC response, Guillot said, could take anywhere from three to six months, depending on its investigation. At this time Guillot said the progress of the case is dependent on the schedules presented to the court by the attorneys of the plaintiff, O’Dell, and those of the defendants, Harrison and O’Dell’s

County Schools embrace computer science

Summer food service in Elmore County kids begins at close of year By COREY ARWOOD Staff Writer

With the school year coming to a close, any resident of Elmore County can still ensure at least two meals a day for a child 18 years old and under during the months of June and July. On one day last summer there were up to 1,200 children served lunch through the Break For a Plate, Summer Food Service Program, said Kim Smith, the child nutrition director with Elmore County School Board. It is the second year the county has offered the program which is provided by the USDA and the Alabama Department of Education. The program offers breakfast and lunch, free of charge, five days a week, and this year Smith said the service would be expanding to two locations at Stanhope High School and Wetumpka High School. There are very few restrictions on who can access the See SUMMER • Page 2

Today’s

Weather

Carmen Rodgers / The Observer

Bill Garnett and Jimmy K. Lanier stand behind years of trash and debris that has been illegally dumped into the ravine that will soon be part of the new Alabama Forever Wild hiking trails that will follow the old Highline and Lowline Railroad bed.

WALKING THE MILE

Lanier and crew work towards new trail construction By CARMEN RODGERS Staff Writer

Jimmy K. Lanier is at it again, cleaning and clearing land for hikers to enjoy. Lanier and a crew of five men are working hard to clear the walking paths for the Forever Wild trails that will follow the majority of the length of Gold Mine Road where the Highline and Lowline Railroad, which carried needed materials during the construction of Martin Dam, once ran. The railroad system was the most effective and efficient method of carrying the

heavy supplies needed to construct the massive dam. The train tracks made a loop down to the dam. This loop included a total of seven bridges. Today, however, there are no signs of these bridges. This is why the Hiking Association plans on building a suspension bridge for hikers to cross at the exact location where the railroad trestle once stood. “This suspension bridge will be longest suspension bridge this side of the Mississippi,” said Lanier. The total stretch of the suspension bridge See TRAIL • Page 7

Joins effort to teach students to grasp coding like traditional subjects By COREY ARWOOD Staff Writer

Elmore County School Board is joining a growing effort to train teachers to educate students from kindergarten through seniors in computer sciences in a continual learning push for students to grasp coding like any other subject. Within the next three years, teaching methods will be introduced into middle school students daily learning routines, and, following that, into kindergarten through third grades. The goal is to have students not only familiar, but proficient in computer programming, so upon entering high school those that choose can continue their training with new AP courses which are set to be offered next year. Tracy Wright, the math curriculum specialist who led the effort to get Elmore County Schools signed on with the group CODE.org, said by the time See COMPUTER • Page 7

ECHS grads selected for prestigious summer internships

77 61 1 High

supervisors Stephen McKenzie, Eloyse Seamon, Temeyra McElrath and Jasmine Cravens. O’Dell said in a phone interview she felt she had no other option but the lawsuit. “I was really left with no choice but to do this,” said O’Dell. “I tried to work with the Elmore County Board of Education to work through things.” She said she has been employed as a Section 504 student services facilitator for nearly a year now, after about 14 years teaching. Her current position, she said, See LAWSUIT • Page 3

By DAVID GRANGER Staff Writer

Low

FRIDAY: HIGH 77 LOW 57

David Granger / The Observer

ECHS graduates Devin Capell, Carolyn Jones and Justin Weeks, all currently enrolled at Central Alabama Community College in Alex City, were chosen for prestigious summer science internships.

Three Elmore County High School graduates are among six Central Alabama Community College students who have been selected for prestigious National Science Foundation-sponsored internships at the University of Alabama and the University of Mississippi. Devin Capell and Carolyn Jones were both chosen for Robert Noyce summer internships at the University of Alabama. Justin Weeks was chosen for the Research Experience for Undergraduates program at the University of Mississippi. Other CACC students chosen for Noyce internships were Lydia Hammond of Alexander City, Kallie Beall of Jasper and

Moses Torelli of Central, South Carolina. Noyce, the namesake of the UA internships, founded Intel and is known as the “Mayor of Silicon Valley.” The internships are designed to increase the number and diversity of graduating teachers certified in chemistry, physics and mathematics. “This is a terrific group of students who all share an interest in STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) education, particularly at the middle school and secondary levels,” said Carr, a CACC chemistry professor who also serves as the college’s UA Noyce internship liaison. “I think the internship will give them a great opportunity to explore their interests See INTERNSHIP • Page 3

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PAGE 2 • APRIL 21, 2016

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER

Summer

continued from page 1

program, and enrollment in a county school is not a requirement. Smith said as long they are in Elmore County, 18 or under, they can receive the two meals. The service is not limited to individuals. According to Smith, last year they helped sports groups, church groups, the YMCA and the Boys and Girls Club, among various others throughout the county. However, it is required that anyone planning to use the program attend a training workshop, which Smith said was scheduled for 4 p.m., April 26, in the Wetumpka Middle School cafeteria. She said it would last anywhere up to an hour, and another workshop would be announced for a date in May. “It’s been a lifesaver for many of our children through-

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RODNEY GRIFFITH BROKER CELL: 334-207-0666 WEB: www.rodneygrif¿th.com EMAIL: rodneygrif¿th@windstream.net 78 ACRES off Lower Tuskegee Hwy., on Cleghorn Road, great hunting only, $135,000. TALLASSEE – McNEAL STREET, 2 bd/1 ba, close to national guard armory, $55,000. COMMERCIAL BUSINESS – Hwy. 229 in Red Hill (formerly Red Hill Cottage Restaurant), over 3000 sq. ft. on 3 ACRES, only $99,500. RIVER HILLS SUBDIVISION – 19 lots, great views of Lake Tallassee, underground utilities, sewage. Prices start at only $20,000. 4 SOLD – 19 remaining. W. PATTON – Brick, 3 bd/1 ba, new heat pump, hardwood floors, 2 lots, REDUCED $65,000. ECLECTIC – 5 acre lot on lake point road in eclectic, off highway 80 close to lake martin, modular home or double wides are ok if newer. Only $29000. BEAUTIFUL BRICK HOUSE in Plantation Pines, 4 bd/3.5 baths, 1.6 acre lot very modern and pretty, REDUCED TO $310,000. 3189 LITTLE ROAD – 4 bd/2ba., large lot, very modern, & pretty, only $215,000. 8 ACRES KENT RD – REDUCED TO $45,000. 27 ACRES CLAUDE RD. – $80,000. TALLASSEE GILMER AVE. – 3bd/2 ba next to DQ zoned commercial, REDUCED TO $110,000. TALLASSEE BRICK HOME – on 1 acre with a 2 acre fish pond, 3 bd, 2 ba , large den and kitchen, garage, large screened porch, heat pump, REDUCED FROM $159,000 TO $149,000. 8 more acres also adjacent to it. COMMERCIAL PROPERTY – 8 ACRES close to Walmart on Hwy 14, REDUCED $189,000. MULLINS STREET– Eclectic, 1991 Doublewide mobile home on flat acre lot 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, very private, $45,000. 548 PROSPECT ROAD ECLECTIC- Beautiful home on 4 ACRES, 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, Very modern and private, Very close to lake Martin.$279,000.

out the county,” said Smith. “We don’t think about how funds are limited during the summer.” She said the breakfast would consist of a “grab and go” type meal, while the lunch offering would contain servings of vegetables, fruits and milk. According to information on the Break For A Plate website, the program is described as a means to offer nutritious meals throughout a student’s summer break. The service is set to start May 31 and continue through July 29 with the exceptions of holidays and weekends. She said transportation and some degree of adult supervision would be required by those using the program, and more instructions would be given at any of the workshops.

Obituaries Mr. Harold Bruce “Pete” Cottle, Jr., a resident of Tallassee, Alabama, passed away Thursday, April 14, 2016, at the age of 74. Funeral services will be Sunday, April 17, 2016, at 2:00 p.m. from First Baptist Church, Tallassee, with Rev. Derek Gentle officiating. Burial will follow in Rose Hill Cemetery, Jeffcoat Funeral Home directing. Pete leaves behind his loving family; his wife of 53 years, Nancy Brown Cottle; two daughters, Donna Fomby (Mark) and Christina Baker (Jeff); seven grandchildren, Megan Salter (Richard), Marci Cannon (Chris), Kaylyn Coan (Rush), Lara Katherine Fomby, Drew, Jake and Andy Baker; four great grandchildren, Alana, Brody, Braelyn and Lyndie Salter; two brothers, William T. “Bill” Cottle (Brenda)

and Robert L. “Bob” Cottle (Cathy); several nieces and nephews. The family will receive friends Saturday afternoon, April 16, 2016, from 3:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. at First Baptist Church, Tallassee, where Pete was a lifelong member. He wrote the Dirty Digs column for the Tallassee Tribune for 32 years. He was also the host of the “What’s Going On” radio show at WACQ in Tallassee for 22 years. Online condolences are available at: www.jeffcoatfuneralhome.com. Jeffcoat Funeral Home Directing Tallassee, Alabama

Area Calendar APRIL 4-UNTIL

Tallassee High School’s 2016 FFA plant sale begins. You’re more than welcome to come and tour our new greenhouse and look at the plants and facility. Swedish Ivy hanging baskets $8, Wondering Jew hanging baskets $8, Purple Queen hanging baskets $7, Mosquito Plant hanging basket $7, Spider Plant hanging baskets $7, Impatiens hanging baskets $7, Fern hanging baskets $7, Lantana $4, Coleus (single) $5,Marigolds

(single) $0.25, Coleus $0.50, Vinca (single) $0.25

APRIL 4-22

Church Coed Softball registration will be held April 4 –April 22 at Recreation Department and tentative date to begin season will be first week of May. Games played on Tuesdays and Thursdays and cost is $450 per team.

April 18-23

EARTH DAY CLEANUP 2016: Sign up a litter team

to pick up around your neighborhood, business or call the Chamber of Commerce for a location. Advanced Disposal Sponsor providing a roll off container at City Hall from 8am-noon on Saturday the 23 for nonhazardous material and litter team debris disposal. Parker Tire & Auto will take used oil, tires and batteries all week from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Electronic Recycling drop off at Tallassee Recreation Center April 21 from 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. The city Shop will have a roll off container

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April 23

SINGING: Dolly Boshell will be singing Saturday April 23 at Antioch Baptist Church. Supper will be served at 5:30 p.m. and the singing starts at 6:30 p.m. Featured will be the Larch Family, Dr. Rick Jones and the Youth of Antioch. Everyone is welcome and there will be no admission charge. PLANT SWAP EARTH DAY CELEBRATION: The Central Alabama Master Gardeners’ Association will host a plant swap Earth Day Celebration April 23 from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Wetumpka Recycle Center. ADOPTIONS UNDER THE STARS: The Humane Society of Elmore County would like to invite everyone to the shelter for our special adoption event. It will be held at the shelter from 10 a.m. until 10 p.m. on Saturday, April 23, 2016. Everyone will have the opportunity to meet new furry friends, and if you’d like to give one a forever home, there will be reduced adoption fees. Refreshments will also be available. The HSEC is a non-profit organization. Donations of funds and/or items will be appreciated as well. We invite everyone in the community to participate. Media Contact-Rea Cord 334 567-3377 or www. elmorehumane.org

April 24

CHURCH HOMECOMING: Mt. Hebron East Baptist Church in Eclectic will celebrate its 120th Anniverary with homecoming nn Sunday, April 24. Services will begin at 10:30 a.m. (omitting Sunday School). Special singers will be “Holy Destiny” of Prattville. Following services, dinner will be served at noon in the church fellowship building. We invite everyone to come and celebrate with us and stay for lunch at noon. COMMUNITY CELEBRATION BBQ: Santuck Baptist Church on Central Plank Road is hosting a community celebration BBQ Sunday, April 24 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

APRIL 25

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

APRIL 26th & 27th

Kindergarten registration begins 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Child must be 5 on or before Sept. 2. Your child will take a kindergarten assessment. Please bring the following documents: birth certificate, social security card * voluntary*, immunization card, two proofs of recent residency (electric, water or gas bil, lease or mortgage). If you do not have these documents, you may still register your child.

THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

Lawsuit

APRIL 21, 2016 • PAGE 3

continued from page 1

consists of coordinating the services for students with disabilities for 11 schools in the Wetumpka and Millbrook areas. A press release from McPhillips Shinbaum stated that O’Dell claimed she had been denied promotions and experienced negative treatment because of her race. A section from the beginning of O’Dell’s case states that Harrison, after taking on the role as superintendent, “supported the hiring of AfricanAmericans over Caucasians.” The case details O’Dell’s separate attempts at promotions and position changes that were given to what are described as lesser-qualified candidates due to race and accounts of retaliation O’Dell claimed to have experienced upon reporting the incidents. One incident described O’Dell being told to sit at the “back of the room” in an interview by a defendant, which was called a symbolic gesture to O’Dell that she was not wanted there. It stated there was an environment within the Elmore County school system of exclusion based on race and social circles and O’Dell experienced

harassment as a result. Other of O’Dell’s accounts detail a work place culture that tolerated poor work and conduct toward staff and parents based on race where African American employees could get away with certain behavior others could not. When she was given her current position, the case reads that was followed with retaliatory actions from her supervisors. There about 11 pages worth of O’Dell’s evidence and the files state she is seeking declarations of unconstitutional behavior, the implementation of anti-discrimination policy and training along with financial compensation from the defendants and the board for missed work, loss of salary, medical and attorney’s fees and court costs, among others. According to a statement taken from the website of McPhillips Shinbaum, “Mr. McPhillips is better known as ‘The People’s Lawyer,’ a moniker he earned for his work in landmark cases involving civil rights, racial and workplace discrimination, and police brutality.”

Internship

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while gaining exposure to some pretty awesome university-level science experiences. I know they’ll proudly represent CACC while they’re in Tuscaloosa this summer.” In addition to learning what it’s like to be an educator in a STEM field, Carr said, each of the Noyce participants will receive a small stipend, live on the UA campus and will have the opportunity to earn a $32,000 scholarship. He says non-Noyce participants are also eligible, but participants have the advantage of “showcasing their talents in front of the decision-making professors.” Jones says the possibility of the unknown for her interest in science and sees the Noyce internship as opening up more doors to her future in teaching the sciences. “I’m very excited,” Jones said. “This will open a lot of doors for a lot of things. Plus, it will look great on an application.” “It’s a great program,” added Capell. “There are actually dates built in where we get to go into a classroom and help middle-school kids learn science.” The selection process for the Ole Miss REU program was extremely competitive, according to Carr. Typically, REU programs admit juniors and seniors who plan to become graduate students. Community college students are often an afterthought. Still, Weeks was selected for the program – for which he will receive a $5,000 stipend, housing, meals and travel

assistance – as a freshman. Weeks, who would like to attend pharmacy school at Auburn, will work with Gregory Tschumper’s research group in the field of computational chemistry, a field which enables scientists to use computers to solve chemistry problems for things like pharmaceutical development. “These REU programs are fantastic opportunities for college students,” said Carr, who serves as Weeks’ faculty advisor. “In addition to adding the experience to their resume, students get a first-hand view of cutting-edge research and gain an understanding of what it takes to become a successful scientist. I know that Justin will come back to Alexander City in the fall fired up and ready to gain a deeper understanding of the sciences.” Weeks, who said he has always been interested by math and science, is grateful for the opportunity. “This is the greatest opportunity I’ve ever had,” Weeks said. “I was sitting in class and Dr. Carr asked me to come see him. Someone had dropped out and they asked me if I was still interested in going to Ole Miss. I was shaking, I was so excited.” All three of the Eclectic students credited their retired ECHS teacher Amelia Barton, in particular, for their interest in science. The six Noyce and REU participants this year are six more than CACC had last year.

ELECTRICAL SAFETY STARTS WITH THE RIGHT CALL Barron Jefferson – Lineman, Power Delivery

Here are a few very important things you should know about underground power lines and how to work safely around them. More and more power lines are being buried underground. This poses a considerable threat for both construction workers and do-it-yourself homeowners. Even if you’re undertaking a seemingly harmless job, such as digging a hole for a new fence, the risks are still there. You’ve probably heard the “Call before you dig” mantra many times. But take it to heart, nothing good happens when a shovel plunges into a live power line.

AT THE RIDGE MARINA

The number to call is easy to remember: 811. Call, preferably 48 hours in advance of your project, and the representative will notify all the appropriate utilities. Pretty easy. Soon after the call, various technicians will come out and put colored spray paint in the places where there are lines. Below is a chart to explain which one is which.

Before you dig:

Dial 811

Please take this simple step before digging. It’s easy. And it’s free. You’ll save a lot of headaches—and maybe even your life.

Color codes for marking underground utility lines White

Proposed excavation

Orange

Demo 2016 Boat models Win great prizes

Communications, alarm or signal lines, cables or conduit

Pink

Temporary survey markings

Blue

Potable water

Red

Electric power lines, cables, conduit and lighting cables

Purple

Reclaimed water, irrigation and slurry lines

Yellow

Gas, oil, steam, petroleum or gaseous materials

Green

Sewers and drain lines

Enjoy Fun, Food, & Live Entertainment

In an emergency, call: 1-800-888-APCO (2726) For more electrical safety tips, visit AlabamaPower.com/safety.

Boat Show deals and 10% off Merchandise more info at RussellMarine.net

Kenneth Boone, 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 • APRIL 21, 2016

OPINION

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

The Observer strives to report the news honestly, fairly and with integrity, to take a leadership role and act as a positive influence in our community, to promote business, to provide for the welfare of our employees, to strive for excellence in everything we do and, above all, to treat others as we would want to be treated ourselves.

Trump following a history of seduction

f you’re thinking about filling in the box beside Donald Trump’s name in the November general election, do yourself a favor and google “Donald Trump, Master Seducer,” a the story published in the National Review. It’s rare to find a story on a political candidate that’s as revealing as this piece written by Virginia Hume. She hit a home run on her keyboard. And she made me recall two personal experiences that were shockingly similar, both involving big-name, charismatic politicians who I now realize have much in common – lots of flash, little substance – with The Donald. The first experience happened when I was in college, during a fivehour holocaust class at the University of Alabama. Our class watched a video of Adolph Hitler giving a speech. That name, Hitler, has such tremendous negative



KENNETH BOONE Publisher

connotations today that I need to stop and share a couple of thoughts. We all know now that Hitler was a man who caused massive harm to the human race, the personification of evil. But in 1930’s Germany, Hitler was simply a charismatic politician working his way up to the top of the government. Germany had a hugely successful past, but it had fallen hard during World War I and many of its citizens were looking for a new way forward. Hitler took advantage of this, and, literally, seduced a large portion of the German citizens into supporting him. I never understood how he did it until that day we watched a grainy video of Hitler

speaking. We were all nonGerman speakers, watching Hitler give a speech in German. We didn’t understand a word he said. But Hitler had a powerful, spell-binding oratory style. He couldn’t be ignored. As we watched the video, we found ourselves getting into the rhythm of his speech, nodding as he spoke, caught up in the excitement of his fiery delivery. I don’t know what he said. But despite my best intentions, I found myself wanting to agree with him. When I was managing editor of The Selma-Times Journal, back in 1988, Jesse Jackson came to town to give a presidential campaign speech. I covered it for the newspaper. I was skeptical of his message, but my job was to cover the speech as an impartial observer, to convey to our newspaper readers what Jackson said and what it was like to be in the audience

during his speech. Jackson is another incredibly charismatic speaker. He got on a roll, speaking in a strong cadence punctuated with rhymes. He spoke from the position of an underdog, telling people what they wanted to hear. He spoke of America coming a long way, of making America better. He spoke of dreams. He said, “Don’t mess with America,” and he said he was working for all Americans. I dutifully wrote down his words … but I was spellbound by how he said it. I left the speech excited, emotional, my heart racing. Then I got back to my office and read my notes, and I realized the real power of Jackson’s performance. When Jackson wasn’t in the room with me, the spell was broken. There was a huge difference in what he said – which I didn’t agree with – and how he said it – which I wanted to believe during the speech.

And that’s my message today. There are people walking this earth who have a dangerous power to seduce us, who can capture our imaginations by manipulating our emotions, who use drama and theatrics as a persuasive tool, who have the ability to convince us to give in even when we know better. “Seduce” literally means “to persuade to disloyalty” or “to lead astray usually by persuasion or false promises.” We’ve all been seduced and later regretted it. Until I read Hume’s story about Trump, I hadn’t thought of him as a seducer. Now I can’t watch him without thinking about it. Boone is publisher of The Observer.

YOUR VIEW

Want to share your opinion on a situation, topic, etc.?  WRITE: Your View The Eclectic Observer P.O. Box 99 Wetumpka, AL 36092  EMAIL: News@TheWetumpkaHerald.com Include your name, address and phone number. Only your name and city will be printed. We reserve the right to edit or to refuse to publish any submission. You may submit one letter per month, limited to 300 words or less.

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 # 1536688X. 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 Kenneth Boone, publisher kenneth.boone@thewetumpkaherald.com Mitch Sneed, editor mitch.sneed@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

Experience with 90-year-old clerk shows good in people

few weeks ago, my wife and I were shopping at JC Penney’s in the mall. We had found our merchandise and made our way to the checkout. As usual, and like many of you, we felt pressed for time. Imagine my surprise when I noticed the checkout lady for our line looked to be at least 90 years old, and I am being kind in that estimation! I am serious, she was a small woman barely as tall as my 11-year-old grandson. Her hair was a shade beyond white, whatever that could be. She, of course, had the obligatory wrinkles earned by her life and walked a bit stooped and I might add very slowly. She was dealing with a lady who was returning some items and it seemed to take forever. I began to think who would hire someone this old to work in this type of job? Why would someone her age want such a job? Why isn’t she home with her husband? I began to get exasperated and my wife and I just looked at each other. Then something happened, I really, really, began to look at her. She was kind to the exasperating lady she was dealing with - very kind. She was considerate as she looked back at us and constantly apologized for the delay. She smiled at everyone. I don’t see that very often at a checkout counter - do you? She was exact and careful to do everything right. She actually looked like she was enjoying being there and

JAMES TROGLEN Guest Columnist

having the job. Many checkout clerks act like they are doing us a favor by even acknowledging we are there. When we got to her she again apologized and took our merchandise and rang it up, again, accurately and with a genuine, friendly, smile. She noticed the items were for younger children and asked if they were for our grandchildren. We said yes, and she began asking questions about them such as their names, ages, how often we got to see them etc. My tensions began to ease and suddenly I realized we weren’t really in that much of a hurry anyway - not really. She was a delight and when it was time to go I was actually a bit sorry we were through. I asked myself why she was working there? Perhaps she had no choice in our economy and really needed the job and money to live on. Maybe she was a widow and alone and desperately craved some human interaction. It could be she just wanted to stay involved in life longer than most of us and be a contributing part of society on some level. Regardless, she belonged there and I hope she stays for a long time. I commend whoever it was

that hired her and took a chance on that dear soul. I look forward to seeing her when we go to Penney’s now. Just a week or so ago I was there in the store, alone, and a younger clerk impatiently motioned me to her checkout with a tired and exasperated look that said, “Would you just hurry up!” I told her loudly enough for everyone to hear. “That’s okay, I am waiting for this lady; she is my favorite and I wouldn’t dream of letting anyone else check me out.” The old woman remembered me and asked about my grandkids as she checked me out and how my cute little wife was doing. Suddenly, I looked behind me and people were moving over to her counter and forming a line. It seems they wanted, no needed, what she had to offer - herself, manners, accuracy and a warm heart. I pray God leave her there a while longer. I need to see her regularly. If your ever in Penney’s and see her, you can’t miss her, believe me. Just tell her you heard about her from the pastor at First Baptist Wetumpka and wanted her to check you out. You won’t be sorry. She reminds me of the little quip; Grandmothers are just “antique” little girls. Gray hair is a glorious crown; it is found in the way of righteousness (Proverbs 16:31). Dr. James Troglen II is the minister at First Baptist Church of Wetumpka.

Phone 334-567-7811 thewetumpkaherald.com

FAITH

THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

APRIL 21, 2016 • PAGE 5

The struggle to answer the question: Is the Gospel exclusive?

n article in The Living Church argued that Christianity is exclusive. The story of the rich young man (Mark 10:17-22) was cited as an example of a person clearly excluded even though his sincerity was obvious. If we read the story of the rich young man we see that Jesus never excluded him. The rich young man excluded himself by being unwilling to “sell what he [had], give it to the poor and follow.” We often exclude ourselves, too. We cling to the things that bind and imprison us rather than give them up so we can be free. In clinging so tightly, we exclude ourselves from God and from our communities. Likewise, when we believe our sins are too great to be forgiven, we often exclude ourselves from others and the church.

REV. BOB HENDERSON Trinity Episcopal

Exclusion is often something we do to ourselves. Secondly, that article referred to Jesus’ consistent exclusion of non-Jews in his concept of the Kingdom. Yet, there is the remarkable story of the syro-Phoenician woman (Matt. 15:21-28) who was invited into Jesus’ fellowship, and perhaps, even taught Jesus a thing or two in the process. Thirdly, Paul talks about being one in Christ. (Gal. 3:28; 1 Cor. 10:17). Who is one in Christ? For Paul, a very diverse group of people were all one in Christ. They become one in Christ by being baptized believers, but those who were not baptized were not excluded,

they were welcomed in. My reading of the gospel, incomplete as it may be, never shows Jesus excluding anyone. Rather, Jesus is constantly inviting. If we don’t invite everyone in, if we aren’t inclusive and welcome all kind of diverse people with diverse ideas into our midst, then it is clear that there are some people who we, as a church believe should be excluded. The problem that raises is two-fold: determining the standard for exclusion and deciding who sets that standard for the church. At one time in my part of the country, the south, the standard was color, set by many individual parishes. Today in the Episcopal Church, it seems to be one’s theological position on women or homosexuality. When we exclude one person, be it because of their color, gender, sexual orientation or theology, it

becomes easier and easier to exclude more and more people because they don’t act like we act, dress like we dress, talk like we talk, or look like we look. If we exclude these people, if we fail to invite them in, not only do we fail to model the inviting attitude of Jesus, but we cut them off from learning about Jesus, about the Gospel, about repentance and forgiveness. Rather than promoting a feel good, don’t-hurt-anyone’s-feelings gospel, I find the idea of inclusion and diversity to be much more difficult in practice than exclusion. It is difficult to listen to different points of view, different opinions, hear words spoken in different accents from mouths which are differently shaped or colored than mine. It is very, very difficult for me to put my opinions aside, overcome my ingrained, learned prejudic-

es, sacrifice my need to be right or my concept of the truth, and respect those who in appearance or thought are so different from me. Yet, when I can do so, then I almost always learn something from these people who are different, not that I necessarily change my opinion, but I hear or see something that makes me re-think my ideas, reconsider my position, identify yet another prejudice. Some will argue that the Gospel is exclusive. I’d argue that the heart of the gospel is “Love one another as I have loved you.” Loving each other like Jesus loved us is never exclusive.

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 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

Rev. Henderson is a rector at Trinity Episcopal Church in Wetumpka.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER

Trail

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

continued from page 1

will span well over the length of a football field. Today, nothing remains of the railroad system except the raised path where tracks once rested. While nature has overtaken the old railway path, it remains clear enough to see and travel by foot. This is exactly why Lanier decided to work with Alabama Power and Forever Wild to restore the path to walking condition. In order to do this, bridges must be constructed to overpass the deep gorges that surround the area. It is these deep gorges, which the Highline and Lowline Railroad once traveled over to reach the base of the dam, that Lanier and his crew are cleaning out. For years people have dumped trash and other unwanted items into the gorge that feeds directly into a stream, which runs directly into the Tallapoosa River. “There is trash down there that is probably 70 years old.” Lanier said. “We pulled old oil cans, tires…. we even pulled a jet ski out of it.” Measures have been taken to stop this problem of illegal dumping of trash and other debris. There is now 24-hour electronic surveillance in the area watching for anyone dumping rubbish. There is a hefty fine for illegally dumping trash and Alabama Power intends to prosecute anyone found illegally discarding waste. Lanier believes this construction will not only rectify years of abuse to the land, it will also add to recreation and for locals and bring in much needed revenue for Tallassee, Eclectic and surrounding areas and, perhaps, even offer a lesson in history. Using the old train route, the trail will offer a glimpse into how Martin Dam came to fruition because without the Highline and Lowline Railroads, the task would have been insurmountable.

Computer students graduate they will have created an app and know one of the many coding languages, if they pursue those AP courses. Wright said there are only 16 states in the country in the program, and just 10 percent of high schools using this strategy. The computer science approach will largely be taught in conjunction with the current math curriculum, however its scope spans essentially across all subject areas. “This does impact coding and mathematics, but it impacts so many other areas. I find it fascinating that they’ve shown results how this other test scores in areas in other subjects,” said Jill Corbin with Elmore County Schools. The fourth-, fifthand sixth-grade math teachers are expected to receive training in the program in May. For the elementary schools, the students will be introduced to coding through an array of approaches, on screen and off, even with the use of puzzles and

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crafts, all in an effort to help them understand programming before learning any specifics. Wright said when he was in school the opposite was the case. Superintendent Andre Harrison said this approach was all about innovation. “Going into a math class if you continue to do the old traditional math then your going to continue to have the students just sitting there, and what have you, but this is a innovative way to get them excited about teaching and learning,” said Harrison. Wright said it was their duty and in the Elmore County School Board mission statement to have students prepared for changes, and the implication was that this is a big and inevitable change. “Because technology is changing so fast, if we don’t get in front of the wave, that we could end up so far behind the wave that we could never catch up,” Wright said.

APRIL 21, 2016 • PAGE 7

Conservation poster contest winner announced

Submitted / The Observer

Elmore County Conservation District’s 2016 Poster Contest first place winner was Raegan Dennis who received honors from Faye Harrell, DAC.

SPORTS

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

PAGE 8 • APRIL 21, 2016

THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER

11TH ANNUAL SEWELL AWARDS

And the nominees are ... Josh Wilson

Jordan Roberts

Elissa Brown

Josh WIlson

Nominees announced for 12th annual Sewell Awards By CORY DIAZ Sports Editor

Nearly 30 student-athletes were named senior finalists and are up for several awards at the 12th annual Joe Sewell Memorial Award and John Sewell Memorial Scholarship banquet, the Board of Directors announced Friday. The banquet is scheduled for May 3 at 6:30 p.m. at the Wetumpka Civic Center. The Joe Sewell Memorial Award was established in 2005 to recognize outstanding high school senior athletes in Elmore County who have consistently represented the highest ideals of Christian leadership. Each year, one male and one female senior from Elmore County high schools are chosen for the honor , which includes the $3,000 John Sewell Scholarship. Male and female category winners are also selected for academics, athletics, leadership, and church, community, and character, with each student receiving a $1,000 scholarship. The Joe Sewell Memorial Award is the only program of its kind in the River Region that

presents scholarship money in conjunction with the awards to overall and category winners. This year’s keynote speaker will be Mike Lutzenkirchen, father of former Auburn standout the late Phillip Lutzenkirchen. Mike Lutzenkirchen is also executive director of the Lutzie 43 Foundation, the objective of which is to “help others live out the many positive character attributes that Philip displayed while learning from the circumstances that led to his death,” according to the foundation’s official website. Senior finalists are: • Elissa Brown, Elmore County • Casey Brumbeloe, Stanhope Elmore • Cyan Carroll, New Life Christian Academy • Ryan Crockett, Wetumpka • Shannon Darnell, Elmore County • Dylan Davidson, Tallassee • Cheyenne Davis, Stanhope Elmore • Brandon Dunn, Holtville • John Durden, New Life Christian Academy • Emilee Ellis, Edgewood

Academy • Riley Greene, Wetumpka • Chandler Haynes, Holtville • Hana Hollis, Wetumpka • Reagan Law, Holtville • Ty Naquin, Stanhope Elmore • Kerri Newton, Holtville • Brian Owings, New Life Christian Academy • Jordan Roberts, Edgewood Academy • B.J. Smith, Stanhope Elmore • Christian Smith, Edgewood Academy • Olivia Smith, Elmore County • Sam Smith, Tallassee • Emily Strickland, Edgewood Academy •Courtney Wallace, Wetumpka •Yolanda Walsh, Tallassee • Julianne Wilkes, New Life Christian Academy • Josh Wilson, Elmore County Nominated freshman athletes from each participating school will also be recognized for their commitment to the qualities outlined in the award program. This year, those freshmen are: • Tyler Abernathy, Edgewood Academy • Andy Baker, Tallassee

• Grace Barlet, Elmore County • CeDayvia Barley, Stanhope Elmore • Trey Brand, Elmore County • Tripp Carr, Edgewood Academy • Laiken Champion, New Life Christian Academy • Garrison Clark, Wetumpka • Emma Coyle, Tallassee • Kaylyn Dismukes, Holtville • Kirsten Elsky, New Life Christian Academy • Alisson Evans, Stanhope Elmore • Kennedy Grier, Holtville • Tucker Jones, Holtville • Conner Koch, Holtville • Mary Kate Lackey, Tallassee • Tanner McNaughton, Tallassee • Anna Kate Norton, Wetumpka • Cayden Opperman, Wetumpka • Haven Owings, New Life Christian Academy • Avery Roberts, Edgewood Academy • Cristo Rocha, Stanhope Elmore • Daniel Spivey, Wetumpka • Madison Traylor, Elmore County

• Parker Watts, Elmore County • Amelia Welch, Edgewood Academy • Owen Woodard, Stanhope Elmore The award serves to honor the legacy of Joe Sewell, a native of the Titus community who established a very successful baseball career in the Majors from 1920-1933 and was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1977. His outstanding character and leadership are qualities that serve as the foundation of this award. His cousin John Sewell, for whom the top scholarships are named, loved sports and spent much of his free time coaching and helping young people. Tickets are sold in advance only for the ceremony and will not be available at the door. Tickets include admission to the banquet and the meal and can be purchased for $25 each until April 25, or $35 each after April 25, while supplies last. Tickets are available at Alabama Power Co., 400 S. Main St. in Wetumpka or online at www.joesewellaward.org.

Holtville edges Elmore County in low scoring area tilt By CORY DIAZ Sports Editor

Elmore County jumped on top early, but Holtville rallied in the latter half, taking the crucial Class 4A, Area 5 victory, 3-1, Tuesday at HHS. Lady Panther senior shortstop and University of Alabama signee Elissa Brown stole the early advantage. After leading off the game with a hit – her team’s lone hit on the night – the speedster swiped second before sophomore Juaneka Patterson bunted Brown in the next at-bat. Freshman pitcher Kaylyn Dismukes stifled offensive output the rest of the game as ECHS had two baserunners, both reaching on error. Dismukes struck out 11 in the one-hit performance. “They were able to hit the ball pretty well toward the end,” Elmore County softball coach Kimberly Moncrief said of the Lady Bulldogs. “Our hitting, we were coming along with it, they’ve got a good pitcher and we were trying to zone in on her.” Sophomore starter Nicole Ferpes kept Holtville (20-15, 2-0) off balance the first two innings before junior centerfielder Haley Mann and senior shortstop Reagan Law put together singles with two outs and Dismukes drove in Mann, tying it up, 1-1. The Dawgs made the Panthers pay for their lone error in the fifth as second baseman Julia Porter reached, Mann followed with a hit and Law bunted Porter home. Next batter, Dismukes had another RBI single, giving HHS the lead, 3-1, and that would be all she needed in the circle. Holtville softball coach Daryl Otwell lauded his

freshman’s outing while the offense struggled against its county and area rival. “We were out front, had bad pitch selection, things we work on we didn’t do a very good job of it,” Otwell said. “The defense and pitching was there when you need it, that always helps. “She’s very valuable, but the way she carries herself, she doesn’t stand out above anybody. She gave up the run early. It’s very hard to shut Elissa Brown down. You can contain her, but I don’t think you can really shut the kid down. She’s just a phenomenal player. One time we got her out tonight, she hit a line drive that about took my second baseman’s head off. To me, she’s better this year than she was last year.” Elmore County entered the game, scoring 10 runs in a key 10-8 area win over Dadeville the night before. Ferpes picked up the victory in the circle and eighthgrader Kierra Harden led the Lady Panthers offensively, going 3-for-4 with three RBIs. With the back-to-back contrasting games, Moncrief said she believes her team can win anyway and that the area tournament will be a battle. “I’m good with any scoring game, if we’re ahead. Low scoring is fine with me. We want to keep them down as much as we can, and we want to score as many as we can. To me it doesn’t matter, we just have to play our game either way. “I think we’re coming along, I think the area tournament is going to be a battle. I’m proud of the girls. We’re going to be OK.” Holtville and Elmore County played Wednesday at ECHS.

Left, Elmore County freshman second baseman Zoe Lowe (11) looks to turn a double play during Tuesday’s Class 4A, Area 5 matchup at Holtville. Below, Elmore County junior third baseman Stephanie Eckstein (4) and sophomore pitcher Nicole Ferpes (23) run into each other trying to field a bunt at Holtville Tuesday. Cory Diaz / The Observer