August 22. 2018 The Wetumpka Herald by Tallapoosa Publishers

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WEDNESDAY • AUGUST 22, 2018

THEWETUMPKAHERALD.COM

VOL. 120, NO. 34

Student charged with making school threats arrested by the Wetumpka Police Department after allegedly making violent threats towards the school via social media. According to WPD Chief Greg Benton, the threats were made over Snapchat, and were not directed at a particular individual.

By AMALIA KORTRIGHT Bureau Chief

A Wetumpka High school student was recently arrested and charged with making a terrorist threat. The unnamed student, who was identified as a ninth-grader, was

resolve this threat immediately and safely,” the press release read. Within an hour of receiving the report, the WPD were able to identify, locate and apprehend the suspect. Benton said the juvenile was later released to legal guardians after the See THREATS • Page A2

According to a WPD press release, the juvenile suspect was reported by school administration on Saturday after they were notified of the threats by another student who saw the suspect’s post. “This was instrumental in allowing the WPD the opportunity to proactively

City talks 2018-19 budget

Trial date reset for former WPD cop in manslaughter case

By AMALIA KORTRIGHT Bureau Chief

The trial date was reset for Sept. 17 for a former Wetumpka police officer who was charged in connection with a fatal collision on U.S. 231 in October of 2016. Andrew Bass, 30, who lists an address on Lakeview Court in Wetumpka, is scheduled to appear at the Elmore County Courthouse for a jury trial at 8:30 Bass a.m. Bass was originally arrested by the Elmore County Sheriff’s Office and charged with manslaughter on July 26, 2017. Bass had been driving his Dodge Charger Wetumpka Police Department cruiser on Oct. 22, 2016, when his vehicle struck a Wetumpka woman’s 2016 Honda Pilot at around 4 p.m. near the intersection of U.S. 231 and Cambridge Avenue. The victim was identified See MANSLAUGHTER • Page A2

Amalia Kortright / The Herald

Sara Ann Pepper gives her remarks during the dedication of WUMC’s new flagpole in honor of her brother, Neal Howard Smith.

‘Of strong heart’ Local church memorializes fallen WWII soldier By AMALIA KORTRIGHT Bureau Chief

The Wetumpka United Methodist Church dedicated its new flagpole in memory of a former member who was killed during World War II, during a ceremony Friday. Dozens of

people attended. A marker memorializing Neal Howard Smith, the brother of a former Wetumpka city council member, was placed below the pole. “He gave the ultimate sacrifice in the war,” Smith’s sister, Sara Ann Pepper of Statham, See SOLDIER • Page A2

The ‘Amber’s Blessings’ box currently sits in front of Trinity Episcopal Church and provides donations to anyone who needs them. It was built in memory of church member Elizabeth Recchio’s niece.

‘Amber’s Blessings’ box provides necessities to community By AMALIA KORTRIGHT Bureau Chief

A member of Trinity Episcopal Church recently found a new way to help those in need when she recently built the “Amber’s Blessings” box. Elizabeth Recchio said members of the community are invited to leave nonperishable food, toiletries and other items that may help someone in the box for

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anyone in need. Recchio said the box has been in front of the church for about a month, and was established in honor of her late niece, Amber Seaton. “My niece passed away last November,” Recchio said. “During the last few years of her life, she was involved in some stuff she shouldn’t have been.” After Seaton’s death, Recchio said other family members began hearing stories from See BOX • Page A2

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Amalia Kortright / The Herald

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The Wetumpka City Council discussed the city’s proposed budget for the 2018-19 year at a regularly scheduled meeting Monday. The budget was proposed by Mayor Jerry Willis and the Wetumpka finance director Julie Creel, who could not be present at the meeting. “This was a very difficult budget to make, but an exciting budget because of having a little more wiggle room than we’ve had,” Willis said. According to Willis, there has not been extra funding in the city’s budget since the economic recession in 2008. “It’s going to give us the opportunity, I think, if we’re smart, with management to move forward,” Willis said. Willis credited the leaders of each city department, who he said were “highly commended” by auditors and accountants on how they adhered to their assigned budgets. “We’ve asked every (city) department head to continue doing exactly what you’re doing,” Willis said. “If you See BUDGET • Page A2

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Obituaries Truman Leon Jones A memorial reception will be held honoring Truman Leon Jones Saturday, August 25 2018 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. at Fairview United Methodist Church 5500 Old Selma Road Montgomery AL.

Manslaughter

continued from page A1

as 52-year-old Elaine Merritt of Wetumpka. She was transported to a local hospital, where she was pronounced dead. Bass’ indictment stated that he had “recklessly” caused Merritt’s death by driving the WPD cruiser at an excessive speed, neglecting to utilize emergency lights and sirens and improper lane usage. Bass pleaded not guilty and filed to waive his arraignment in August of 2017. His trial was initially scheduled for Sept. 18, 2017, and then June 26, before it was rescheduled again. Manslaughter is a Class B felony. If convicted, Bass could face up to two decades in prison and owe up to $30,000 in fines.

Box

continued from page A1

her two children about how the family frequently moved and did not always have access to as much food as they needed. “I hated for other families to know that their loved ones didn’t have enough food,” Recchio said. “I know there are a lot of single parents who struggle, especially in the summer, and elderly people whose check only goes so far.” Recchio said the box was made by a member of St. Michael’s Episcopal Church in Millbrook, installed and painted by her husband, and the door was painted by her niece. She said the sign under the box was donated by Hamilton Signs of Millbrook. While she hasn’t seen many items taken from the box, Recchio said she thinks it will be used more as more people realize what it is there for. “It hasn’t been utilized a whole lot yet because it’s new, but there are some items that have been (taken),” Recchio said. While Seaton’s children are still mourning their mother’s passing, Recchio said they are eager to see the positive impact the pox has. “They always ask ‘Was anything taken from the box?’ or ‘Was anyone helped today?’” Recchio said. “They feel like their mom is watching the other people from Heaven.”

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

Threats

a threat against the school, we will pursue them to the fullest extent of the law,” Dennis said. “It’s going to cost them money, it’s going to inconvenience their family and I make no apology for that.” Dennis also thanked everyone who cooperated in getting the incident resolved and help authorities and administrators respond to the situation appropriately.

continued from page A1

the way the locals have kept up the cemetery over the years. “The people of Margraten were so appreciative of what those soldiers had done for them that they adopted the graves,” Dick Pepper said. Sara Ann Pepper said she was only seven when her brother went off to war, so much of what she knows about him has been told to her by other relatives. “He was a fine young man and a wonderful person. It was a big loss for our family,” Sara Ann Pepper. According to Smith’s obituary, which Sara Ann Pepper had on hand at the ceremony, he had written that he had tried to “live the best life

Georgia, said. “I just wanted to do something to honor him.” Smith’s brother-in-law said Smith was killed on Dec. 17, 1944 during the Battle of the Bulge. His body was interred in the Netherlands American Cemetery. A lot of people don’t remember that when Hitler was going across Europe, he was ruthless. A lot of people don’t realize that we were over there fighting for the freedom of the Belgians,” Dick Pepper said. “These young men gave their lives for other people. This is what America is made of.” Pepper said he and Sara Ann have had numerous opportunities to visit Smith’s grave, and are grateful for

Budget

possible,” in his last letter home. “If I should happen to be one of the unfortunate ones, please carry on your stride and know that I am of strong heart,” Smith wrote. According to Wetumpka Mayor Jerry Willis, the Smith family is well known around the city, and he was proud to see a member honored, even if it was posthumously. “The Smith family has always been a strong, contributing family in the city of Wetumpka,” Willis said. “It’s with honor and pride that we’re doing this today.” Sara Ann Pepper thanked the city and the church for all their support, and for enabling her to share her brother’s story with the community.

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remember, we took an adjustment last year. We had to adjust the fourth quarter in order to be able to survive that year and get through the budget. What they did then was come back and built this last year’s budget based on those fourth quarter figures. It was a cutback in every department.” Willis encouraged each council member to meet with Creel within the next week to go over the budget. Willis said the budget will be discussed at later meetings, and should be passed before the beginning of October. In other council news, the city unanimously voted in favor of amending the city’s zoning ordinance to allow the use of kennels in the city’s general business zoning district and under certain conditions in the city’s local business zoning district. The ordinance came after a petition

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working with law enforcement and evaluating the incident in order to pursue the appropriate disciplinary action against the student based on the system’s code of conduct. Dennis said all threats against school faculty, staff and students, regardless of the poster’s intentions, will be taken seriously and result in serious consequences. “Any student or person who makes

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arrest. As of Monday, Benton said authorities do not believe anyone at WHS is in immediate danger. “The Wetumpka Police Department does not take matters that could endanger the safety of children in our community lightly,” the press release read. Elmore County Public Schools Superintendent Richard Dennis said school administrators are currently

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was filed by Brandon Glenn. In other news, the council voted in favor of paving areas on Otter Track Road, Pauline Circle, James Street, H.H. Robison Drive and Cotton Lakes Boulevard, which will cost the city $53,650. Permission was also granted for the city to purchase a 72-inch turbo

How to submit obituaries Obituaries can be submitted to The Herald from funeral homes by email at obits@thewetumpkaherald.com. For more information, call (256) 234-4281.

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AUGUST 22, 2018 • Page A3

Roby discusses multiple issues at Kiwanis Club luncheon By AMALIA KORTRIGHT Bureau Chief

U.S. Rep. Martha Roby, R-Montgomery, spoke and answered questions at the Millbrook Kiwanis Club’s weekly luncheon at the Plantation House Restaurant on Aug. 15. According to president Daniel Bowie, the Millbrook Kiwanis Club makes a point of inviting all local representatives to speak at meetings throughout the year. “We try to get her to come once a year just to get an update on what’s going on in Washington D.C.,” Bowie said. “We try to get all of our representatives to come speak.” Because Congress is in its August recess, Roby said she is using this time to travel around her district to speak with constituents. “We have a lot to be proud of in our country right now. The House of Representatives has responded to your calls for action, and I know, just like you know, that’s not necessarily what’s being reported in the national news every day,” Roby said. “It is extremely frustrating to see that, if you flip on a news channel, any one, it seems like we’re not doing anything, and that, in fact, is not the case.” Roby said she was frustrated with the “dysfunction” in the U.S. Senate, and is glad that they’re taking time this month to accomplish things that “should have been done many moons ago,” particularly in relation to presidential appointments. Roby said she supports the conservative party’s goals of repealing the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, strengthening border security and defunding sanctuary cities. “These priorities are far too important to die in the United States Senate,” Roby said. “We’re going to continue to push and encourage the Senate to do what they do.” Roby said the House of Representatives has delivered “really good results” on behalf of residents. For starters, she said she was especially proud that the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act was passed, which she said made filing taxes simpler, nearly doubles standard deduction amounts and resulted in “tremendous” economic growth. “The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act was one of the most historic pieces of legislation that I’ve been a part of as your member of Congress. I think we can all agree in this room today that this is a very big deal,” Roby said. “Our country’s economy has added (one) million new jobs. We’ve had over four million jobs that have been positively impacted by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.” She also said U.S. President Donald Trump has signed “significant and historic” reforms of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs into law. “Not one of them is a silver bullet within itself, but

Amalia Kortright / The Herald

Congresswoman Martha Roby answers questions from Millbrook Kiwanis Club members while making a guest appearance at their Aug. 15 luncheon.

“There’s a lot of positive developments happening in our state and in our country ... your unified conservative government is working for you.” —Martha Roby they are important historic reforms that give the VA the tools that they need to continue to make sure that our veterans are getting the healthcare that they deserve,” Roby said. Roby also discussed the country’s “broken” immigration system, saying that she is in favor of Trump’s plan to build a wall between the U.S. and Mexico. “As I always say, if you have a leak in your house, you don’t go replace the drywall before you fix the leak,” Roby said. “We are moving in the right direction on immigration and border security since I have been in Congress.” Roby said both the House and Senate have passed versions of the Farm Bill, a five-year authorization bill that will expire soon. She said one of the most important things regarding the farm bill is to ensure it gives fair treatment to all Alabama commodities. “The House and the Senate bills look very different,” Roby said. “We

pass our two different versions and we go to conference. The conferees from the House and the Senate are currently working out the differences between these two bills,” but are getting closer to working in a regular order. In the future, Roby said she is looking forward to working with Trump on fixing some of the country’s infrastructure issues. “It wouldn’t take but a second to ride around the county and you to point out to me things where there needs to be investments made. Having reliable roads, bridges, ports, railways,

it’s fundamental for our ability to do business,” Roby said. “We haven’t done enough, in this country, to properly maintain our infrastructure. Roby said she is a member of three House subcommittees: Defense; Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies and Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies. She said they have not been operating effectively due to “the political environment in which we have had to work,” and “Democrats attempted to shut down the government over an unrelated immigration issue. She also said she was glad that reforms to the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act were recently passed, along with the reauthorization of funds for career technical education and legislation that authorizes fully funding activities in the U.S. Department of Defense. “There’s a lot of positive developments happening in our state and in our country,” Roby said. “And so, while certainly far from perfect, we know that, your unified conservative government is working for you.”

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

Page A4 • AUGUST 22, 2018

Opinion

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

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The Herald 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.

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334-567-7811 • Fax 334-567-3284 email: news@thewetumpkaherald.com THE WETUMPKA HERALD (681-260) is published weekly on Wednesday by Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc., 548 Cherokee Road, Alexander City, AL 35010. Periodical postage paid at Wetumpka, Alabama. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: The Wetumpka Herald, P.O. Box 99, Wetumpka, AL 36092-0099 ISSN # 1536-688

Beth Chapman ̾ on Rane plane ride?

ecently, I wrote about Alfa’s influence in Alabama politics. In my Aug. 8 column, I said the Alabama Farmers Federation still controls the legislature. They used to play in the governor’s race. However, they got burned badly by Bob Riley when they helped him get elected and the first thing he did was stab them in the back. However, they have slipped around this year and will not only own the legislature, they will probably have a good friend in the governor’s office. The day before the primary, Kay Ivey was put on Jimmy Rane’s jet to fly around the state. Boarding with her was Beth Chapman, Alfa’s political consultant. The next night when she came off the platform after giving her appreciation speech, guess who was helping her off the stage and holding her arm so that she would not fall? Jimmy Parnell, the Farmers Federation president. Well, I get a note from Debbee Hancock, an Ivey campaign spokesperson, yes, that is right, it is spelled Debbee. She informed me Chapman was not actually on-board Rane’s plane that day when they flew Kay around the state. I politely told her that in watching the television footage, it looked to me like Beth was in a finite group of people walking beside Kay to the plane. Even Brent Buchanan, the governor’s campaign manager, concurred with my assessment. He told me, “I was there with Beth and saw it on TV after. I totally see how you could have thought she

STEVE FLOWERS Columnist was headed to the plane when the governor exited that way.” I told young Debbee I would clarify that Beth did not actually board the plane, it just looked like she did. However, I told them they should not be so sensitive about or ashamed of the Farmers’ friendship. Also told them they should have given them a place on the plane. Most people assume the Farmers would be for the Republican nominee for governor. However, Debbee did not dispute the second part of my Aug. 8 comments where I said Jimmy Parnell, like the gentleman he is, was helping Kay off the stage the next night. I advised both Debbee and Brent they really should not allow her to go out alone and be expected to maneuver stage steps. Recently, one of Kay’s people called me and told me I said Kay was senile. I told them that was a blasphemous lie. I said, “She just looked senile.” I appear on numerous radio talk shows and television stations around the state. I am getting up in age and sometimes I do not remember everything I say. I obviously have become quite uninhibited in my observations and ramblings. Walt Maddox has been doing his best to coax Kay’s folks into letting her debate. Folks, you can bet your bottom dollar, Kay

Ivey ain’t going to debate Walt Maddox. My observation is Kay cannot debate. I do not believe she has the stamina to physically stand up for an hour or two, much less answer questions. It would be political suicide for her handlers to put her in that trap. She would become befuddled and anxious. She would be prone to putting on a show worse than Big Jim Folsom’s appearance on TV in 1962. It would be a good show. All Kay has to do is run out the clock. She needs to continue to say nothing or do nothing. A Republican governor who looks elderly and has done nothing wrong ethically and who is enjoying the fruits of a great national recovery will beat a young, energetic, highly qualified candidate who is cognizant and well-versed on the issues every day of the week and twice on Sunday in Alabama politics. Just the appearance on a debate stage would be dramatic. Alabamians do not care about a gubernatorial debate or for that matter they do not care much about who is governor. What they do care about is college football and it starts next week. It will occupy Alabamians for the next three months. The governor’s race will slide under the radar screen. 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.

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ADMINISTRATION Steve Baker, president and publisher publisher@thewetumpkaherald.com NEWS Amalia Kortright, bureau chief & staff writer amalia.kortright@thewetumpkaherald.com Santana Wood, design editor santana.wood@thewetumpkaherald.com SPORTS Lizi Arbogast, sports editor lizi.arbogast@thewetumpkaherald.com Caleb Turrentine, sports writer caleb.turrentine@thewetumpkaherald.com SALES Marilyn Hawkins, marketing consultant marilyn.hawkins@thewetumpkaherald.com OFFICE Donna Parker, office clerk donna.parker@thewetumpkaherald.com

Cardinal Wuerl must go

n 1972, Pope Paul VI warned “the smoke of Satan has entered the Church of God.” We see that smoke throughout the report from a Pennsylvania grand jury, which alleges more than 300 priests abused more than 1,000 children in six Pennsylvania dioceses — including 99 priests from the Diocese of Pittsburgh, which was led for 18 years by Cardinal Donald Wuerl, now archbishop of Washington. How bad was the abuse? The report notes “during the course of this investigation, the Grand Jury uncovered a ring of predatory priests operating within the [Pittsburgh] Diocese who shared intelligence or information regarding victims as well as exchanging the victims amongst themselves. This ring also manufactured child pornography ... [and] used whips, violence and sadism in raping their victims.” According to Pennsylvania Attorney General Josh Shapiro, one victim, a boy named George, “was forced to stand on a bed in a rectory, strip naked and pose as Christ on the cross for the priests. They took photos of their victim, adding them to a collection of child pornography which they produced and shared on church grounds.” Abusing a child while mocking the Passion of Christ is truly diabolical. Wuerl, who served as the bishop of Pittsburgh from 1988 to 2006, did discipline some priests — and even went to the Vatican to fight an order that he reinstate one. But the grand jury also wrote he reassigned other predator priests — including the one who “groomed” George and introduced him to the ring that photographed him. In at least one case, Wuerl required a victim to sign a “confidentiality agreement,” barring him from discussing his abuse with any third party as part of a settlement. That is a cover-up. In addition, the grand jury also wrote that under his leadership the diocese failed to

MARC THIESSEN Columnist report allegations of abuse to law enforcement, advocated for a convicted predator at sentencing, then provided an $11,542.68 lump-sum payment to the disgraced priest after his release from prison. The grand jury report comes on the heels of the sickening accusations Wuerl’s predecessor as Washington archbishop, Cardinal Theodore McCarrick, sexually abused seminarians and young priests, and spent nearly 20 years molesting a young boy, the first person he baptized, beginning when the child was 11. After the McCarrick allegations, Wuerl declared, “I don’t think this is some massive, massive crisis.” Excuse me, Your Eminence? It is a massive, massive crisis. How was McCarrick allowed to rise through the hierarchy despite the countless warnings to both his fellow bishops and the Vatican that he was a sexual predator? Who knew? Who helped him? The same conspiracy of silence that allowed sexual predators to flourish in Wuerl’s Pittsburgh diocese for decades also allowed McCarrick to become, until just a few weeks ago, one of the most powerful American cardinals, even in retirement. This is not just a matter of getting rid of a few bad apples. There is a ring of abusers and their enablers in the Catholic hierarchy that must be rooted out. Every report of abuse that was overlooked or ignored, every abuse that was covered up with a nondisclosure agreement, must be exposed. The bishops and cardinals who ignored or covered up abuses are complicit and must be removed. The church must be cleansed, and the conspiracy of

silence ended. The only way to do this is through an independent investigation. The church has proved itself incapable of self-investigation and self-policing — which is evidenced by the fact we are just learning new details of the horrific extent of abuse from a grand jury 16 years after the scandal first erupted. My American Enterprise Institute colleague Michael Strain has recommended bringing back former Oklahoma governor, federal prosecutor and faithful Catholic Frank Keating to lead the investigation. In 2003, Keating resigned from a lay-member church-appointed board looking into abuse after he refused to apologize for comparing the cover-up by the bishops to the Mafia. That makes him precisely the right man for the job. The bishops not only failed the victims but have also scandalized the church, undermined its teaching authority and driven countless people away from Christ. How many failed to go to confession, or left the sacraments, because of their actions — or their failure to act? We will never know. But they should heed Mark’s Gospel, where Jesus warns, “Whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him if a great millstone were hung round his neck and he were thrown into the sea.” This must be a time of repentance. Repentance requires accountability. And accountability requires resignations — starting with Wuerl’s. Marc Thiessen’s column is provided by The Washington Post News Service & Syndicate. He writes a twice-weekly column for The Post on foreign and domestic policy and contributes to the PostPartisan blog. He is a fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, and the former chief speechwriter for President George W. Bush. Follow Thiessen on Twitter@marcthiessen.

THE WETUMPKA HERALD

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

AUGUST 22, 2018 â&#x20AC;˘ Page A5

Taste of Eclectic reaches 20th year By AMALIA KORTRIGHT Bureau Chief

Eclectic the Beautiful is getting ready to host its 20th annual Taste of Eclectic event from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Sept. 17 at Elmore County High School cafeteria. Eclectic the Beautiful President Dean Williams and Eclectic City Council member Carmen Winslett said Taste of Eclectic is an endof-summer social event that gives the community a chance to sample different types of food and drinks from a variety of local vendors. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is a very worthwhile event,â&#x20AC;? Winslett said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a good time to come out and socialize.â&#x20AC;? According to Winslett, Taste of Eclectic will feature about 25 food vendors. Williams said new vendors are involved each year, but longtime vendors like Red Hill Cottage Catering, Evans Produce and El Gran Rodeo will also be featured. Taste of Eclectic is Eclectic the Beautifulâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s primary fundraiser, and the eventâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s proceeds will go toward maintaining some of the organizationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s past beautification projects. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The efforts of Eclectic the Beautiful are well worth it,â&#x20AC;? Winslett said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;These ladies put a lot of time and effort into what they do.â&#x20AC;? While Eclectic the Beautiful is proud to have Taste of Eclectic reach the two-decade mark, Williams said their success is due to the vendors who participate and the community members who attend. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just that weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve had good people to back us up,â&#x20AC;? Williams said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been very lucky.â&#x20AC;? Tickets cost $10 for adults, $5 for

Submitted / The Herald

About 25 vendors are expected to participate in this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Taste of Eclectic, which raises money to maintain beautification projects done by Eclectic the Beautiful.

children ages four through 12 and are free for children under 4. According to Williams, tickets must be bought

in advance and can be purchased by calling her at 334-399-6451 or Winslett at 334-201-0092.

ReBoot program discussed at BOE meeting By AMALIA KORTRIGHT Bureau Chief

Elmore County Alternative School Principal Bill Bergeron gave a presentation on the Overage Middle School Program, also known as â&#x20AC;&#x153;ReBoot,â&#x20AC;? which will likely be implemented in the coming weeks, at the Monday board of education meeting. Bergeron said the Overage Middle School Program, also known as â&#x20AC;&#x153;ReBootâ&#x20AC;? focuses on students that are considered overage in their grade level and aims to get them caught up academically and able to graduate. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I get kids that are 16 or 17 years old that are coming from the middle schools, and they were going to become dropouts. That hurt my graduation rate,â&#x20AC;? Bergeron said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Just like you reboot a computer when you have a problem, we want to allow these kids to reboot their education, and get caught up to where they have a chance to succeed at the high school level.â&#x20AC;? According to Bergeron, Elmore County Public Schools have 25 students who are at least two years behind their cohortsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; grade level. He said having students that are much older than their peers poses a safety risk and can cause disciplinary issues. Additionally, Bergeron said many of the overage students read at a low level, are â&#x20AC;&#x153;hopelesslyâ&#x20AC;? behind academically and have special education needs. Bergeron said one teacher and an aide will preside over the ReBoot program and work to identify each overage studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s academic level to advance them to an appropriate grade level in the four core subjects. He said

â&#x20AC;&#x153;(People) need to get their tickets so they wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss out on this special event,â&#x20AC;? Williams said.

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Elmore County Alternative School Principal Bill Bergeron talks about the proposed ReBoot program that is intended to solve Elmore County Public Schoolsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; issue of overage students in local middle schools

students will be in a reading class for at least an hour. Bergeron also said students who are supposed to be in the 10th and 11th grades will attend the Elmore County Technology Center, and most will participate in construction classes. Over the course of the 30-day ReBoot program, Bergeron said student have to consistently perform at an 85 percent success rate, or they will have to start over from the beginning. According to Bergeron, ReBoot will utilize the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Step program,â&#x20AC;? which will grant privileges to students as they progress. He said they will start out in cubicles and earn the privileges of learning in a classroom with their peers, eating lunch with their peers and going

on field trips before moving back to the school for which theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re zoned on a 30-day probation period. Bergeron said the program would also include individual and group counseling from a licensed professional counselor, substance abuse treatment and the addition of cubicles to the ones that currently exist at the school. Superintendent Richard Dennis said the BOEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s goal is to ultimately â&#x20AC;&#x153;put (the program) out of business.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;We donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want behind students,â&#x20AC;? Dennis said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re working on revamping our (Response to Instruction) program so we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have students reach that level of being two to three years behind or more.â&#x20AC;?

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THE WETUMPKA HERALD

Trinity Episcopal launches the Gathering Place By AMALIA KORTRIGHT Bureau Chief

Trinity Episcopal Church launched its effort to support members of the community impacted by memory loss, as well as their loved ones and caregivers on Aug. 15. Support group meetings will be held monthly, and are open to the entire community. The support group is part of the church’s Gathering Place Community Respite program, which will begin providing four-hour respite sessions to those suffering from memory loss from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Oct. 3. Some of the session’s activities will include, music, dance, exercise, memory puzzles, games, Bible studies, service projects, arts and crafts and intergenerational activities. “They can bring their loved one to be with other people and be involved in all kinds of activities that we hope will stimulate their minds and bodies and souls,” Gathering Place co-director Tonia Ayers said. Ayers said the Gathering Place is modeled after the Respite Ministry based out of the First United Methodist Church in Montgomery. Atchison and Ayers said co-director Suellen

Amalia Kortright / The Herald

Trinity Episcopal Church held its first support group for caregivers of loved ones with memory loss. While only a handful of people came, members said the program is expected to grow.

Young, who was not able to make it to the first meeting, was the program’s instigator. “This was her brainchild,” Ayers said. “She came to me and asked if I’d be interested in helping. I said I would.” For many who act as caregivers, Gathering Place Steering Committee Kathy Atchison said caring for someone with memory loss can be isolating. “We are all of kind of

an age where we have either dealt with this situation or know people who have dealt with this situation with their own parents or family members, and realize how difficult it is for caregivers,” Atchison said. “They have to stay at home with their loved one all the time, which means they have no time for themselves, their grocery shopping, their own doctor’s appointments, their own needs.”

As someone who has been affected by memory loss firsthand, organizer Sue Callaham said she also recognizes the importance of assisting those affected. “I’m a retired physical therapist, and worked in home health for many, many years, and clearly a large portion of the clients that I served had issues like memory loss, cognition. And then I dealt with it with my dad,” Callaham. Atchison said they are

also open for volunteers during each respite session. Volunteers, along with trained professionals, will supervise, lead activities and serve meals. “We are looking for people to volunteer on Wednesdays, and enough to get a really good ratio between volunteers and our participants, as well as enough so that there can be some flexibility so people don’t have to be here every single Wednesday,” Atchison

said. Ayers and said a community-wide meeting for potential volunteers is scheduled for Aug. 30. “Everybody in the community is invited, and it’s going to be kind of an educational workshop on Alzheimer’s and dementia, and then an opportunity for people to either apply as a participant or as a volunteer,” Ayers said. While less than 10 people attended the first support group meeting, Atchison said they had anticipated that the program would start slowly and grow as the word spread. “We’re not going to get discouraged if three or four people turn up for this, because we think that as word gets out and people realize what the program is, that more and more people will avail themselves of their services,” Atchison said. While they are not sure what to expect for the turnout of the first respite session, she said they can currently accommodate 25 people and hope to expand on that in the future. Anyone who is interested in applying for the respite sessions or as a volunteer, or anyone who is looking for more information about the Gathering Place, is encouraged to visit Gatheringplace.center or call 334-235-4151.

ECHS, WMS Bicentennial projects announced By AMALIA KORTRIGHT Bureau Chief

The community service projects by two Elmore County Schools that were recently selected as Bicentennial Schools by Gov. Kay Ivey were announced at a board of education meeting Monday. Students from Elmore County High School will be writing a children’s book that recounts the history of Eclectic, and Wetumpka Middle School students will be working to organize a Taste of Wetumpka and put together a cookbook. ECBOE Innovation Specialist Julie Powell described the children’s book as a collaborative effort between the high school and Eclectic Elementary School. Powell said the high school students will do the writing, while the 4th graders will provide the illustrations.

Amalia Kortright / The Herald

ECBOE Innovation Specialist and ECHS Principal Wes Rogers announced that students will be collaborating with EES fourth-graders on a children’s book centered around Eclectic history.

ECHS Principal Wes Rogers said the children’s book will be distributed

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among all 4th graders at Eclectic Elementary School once it is completed. WMS seventh grade civics and geography teacher Amanda Killough said Taste of Wetumpka will convey the city’s history through food.

“We’re going to collect recipes that have been passed down through families and then our culminating event will be an actual Taste of Wetumpka where we will invite the community to come try the recipes and

produce a cookbook as well,” Killough said. Earlier this month, both schools were chosen along with 200 other schools throughout the state and received $2,000 grants from the Alabama Bicentennial Committee to

fund their projects. ECBOE member Patrycya Tucker commended both schools on their choice of community service projects. As a former English teacher, Tucker said it “touched her heart.”

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Sports

DAYS UNTIL FOOTBALL TheWetumpkaHerald.com

The

Herald

Visit our sister website: TallasseeTribune.com AUGUST 22, 2018 • PAGE A7

MEET THE INDIANS Wetumpka opens season with tough test in Week 0

By CALEB TURRENTINE Sports Writer

The Wetumpka Indians will kick off their season at Hohenberg Field in Wetumpka on Friday night. The preseason No. 2 team in Class 6A is playing host to the Fairhope Pirates and is looking at a new quarterback to help lead the way. After the injury to JD Martin, junior Tyquan Rawls has stepped into the starting role and has flourished with the offense. Coach Tim Perry said the players have rallied around Rawls and encouraged him throughout fall practice. Perry understands it will be a process but he expects the junior to handle it well. “We expect him to go out on Friday night and there will probably be some miscues and that’s understandable,” Perry said. “But he’s such a competitor and so conscientious about doing well that we know he’s going to overcome those miscues when they happen.” Rawls and the Indians will be facing a tough task out of the gates when Fairhope comes to town this week. The Pirates play in Class 7A and ended a two-year playoff drought with an 8-3 season in 2017. Senior quarterback Devin Mitchell is a big reason for that.

The dual-threat quarterback enters his third season as the starting quarterback. Mitchell finished with 2,395 yards of total offense and 21 touchdowns last season. Meanwhile, Perry is replacing some of his top defensive backs and knows the task Mitchell brings. “We’ve had guys step up and some of the younger guys in the secondary have improved a great deal since the spring,” Perry said. “We know it will be a challenge facing a quality quarterback but we’re going to do the best job we can to get the secondary prepared for that.” Fairhope returns just one starter from last year’s offensive line. On the defensive side of the ball for the Indians, Mississippi commit P.J. Lucas is added to what was already a formidable defense. Lucas, a defensive end, could have a big impact on containing Mitchell and limiting Fairhope’s success on offense. “They had a very good year last year and have a great group coming back,” Perry said. “They’re well-coached and disciplined. It’s going to be a big test for us on the first game of the season. Our priority is to keep working on the game plan and get rid of those miscues.”

Indians host annual scrimmage, meet and greet By GRIFFIN PRITCHARD For The Herald

The Wetumpka Indians are fired up and ready for a shipload of Fairhope Pirates. The Tribe, runners-up in last year’s Class 6A state championship game, have carried a chip on their shoulder since that loss. And, following the injury to 3-Star quarterback JD Martin two weeks ago, that chip has only gotten bigger. “Our motto is ‘Finish the fight,’” Indian senior Colton Adams said. “We’ve got a huge chip on our shoulder because we want to get back to the state championship game and win that blue trophy.” Wetumpka’s attitude is driven by coach Tim Perry who, at the conclusion of Friday’s Black and White game, challenged his Indians to step up and prove without Martin in the lineup, they are even more of a threat. “Once the word got out around the state about J.D., feedback started coming back to us saying, ‘Well, there goes Wetumpka’s

Cliff Williams / The Herald

Wetumpka hosted its annual Meet the Indians night where youngsters in the community were invited to meet with the current Wetumpka football team prior to its annual Black and White game.

season,’” Perry said. “That sort of discredit’s the work of the returning starters. I made this analogy to the guys, I said: ‘We didn’t put JD Martin on the field by himself last year. Think about what would have happened if we

Mustangs look for quick start in 2018 By CALEB TURRENTINE Sports Writer

Coach Brian Bradford remembers the 0-3 start that almost derailed his first season in charge of the Stanhope Elmore football program. Even though the Mustangs shook off that slow start to make the playoffs, the coach knows getting the team on the correct path early is important. “It changes the momentum of the season,” Bradford said.

“Last year, we couldn’t get into a rhythm because of that. Starting off fast helps though.” The Mustangs will travel to Chilton County on Friday night to open their 2018 season. Stanhope has an 18-1 all-time record against the Tigers but the schools have not faced each other since 2003. Bradford was the head coach at Chilton County from 2014 to 2016,

Indians to look to repeat as area champs with new roster By CALEB TURRENTINE Sports Writer

Caleb Turrentine / The Herald

Stanhope Elmore’s Derrick Butler (30) fills a hole in the defensive line to stop See STANHOPE • Page A10 the ball carrier during a practice.

Smoke prepares for new challenges in SEC By CALEB TURRENTINE Sports Writer

After spending four years as a star in Wetumpka, Kavosiey Smoke has taken his talents north to join the University of Kentucky football team. With the college season beginning soon, Smoke said the challenges of playing in the SEC have made the move more difficult. “It’s a big transition,” Smoke said. “Everyone is bigger and faster. You have to be tough to be able to play in this conference.” Smoke received All-State honors for his senior season with the Indians and was a big reason why the Indians advanced to the Class 6A state championship in 2017. He rushed for 1,508 yards and finished with 28 touchdowns last season. Now, Smoke returns to the bottom of the totem pole and will try to work his way back up in the nation’s toughest conference. Smoke said the heavier workload was expected but there are still major

differences in practices at the collegiate level. Smoke said he is rated on everything he does in practice, from blocking to ball security. “The way you train is just different,” he said. “They grade you for missing assignments or not going full speed. They push you.” After four years of working under Wetumpka coach Tim Perry, Smoke said he was well-prepared for the intensity. During the offseason, Smoke suffered an injury to his meniscus that needed surgery. He said he stayed focused on the recovery and pushed back to practice in just two weeks. Shortly after his return, Smoke played in the team’s first fall scrimmage as one of the top three running backs. Smoke currently sits fourth on the depth chart for the Wildcats. Star running back Benny Snell will see most

did just that.’ “He had a great year, but he had a lot of great help around. When you start hearing, ‘There goes their season,’ you need to take that stuff personally. See INDIANS • Page A9

Submitted / UK Athletics

Kavosiey Smoke said his time in Wetumpka prepared him to play football at the next level. The former Wetumpka star is about to start his first season with the Kentucky Wildcats.

of the rushing load for Kentucky, which could force Smoke into a limited role. However, with the new NCAA rule, Smoke can play in up to four games See SMOKE • Page A8

Last season, the Wetumpka volleyball program won its first area championship in more than a decade. The Indians saw eight players from that squad graduate in May and will now look to some new faces to lead the team back to super regionals. “We’re very young but we’re still a talented team,” Indians coach Margo Thomas said. “Our expectations are still high and the players know that. We have a lot of potential.” Only three players from last year’s varsity team are back for Wetumpka in 2018. Seniors Caroline Tyler and Grace Rawls will be the leaders for the Indians and they have already shown they are up for the task. Thomas said those two players have taken on the leadership role with ease. The coach said it is important for Tyler and Rawls to lead by example. The seniors have often asked for an open gym to help the team get in extra reps outside of regular practice hours. “We didn’t know each other until workouts started but everyone is getting along well,” Tyler said. “You have to talk to each other in volleyball so it’s important to get to know them.” The Indians have had several team events outside of the gym, including a bowling day, lunches and other bonding activities. Tyler said it has helped with the team’s communication which is a key on the court. “We’re still getting to know each other,” Thomas said. “There are a lot of new players on varsity so we have to build that team chemistry.” Wetumpka held 6 a.m. workouts during the offseason but Tyler said those helped the team with that See VOLLEYBALL • Page A8

PAGE A8 • AUGUST 22, 2018

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

THE WETUMPKA HERALD

Thundercats bring national trophy to Elmore County By CALEB TURRENTINE Sports Writer

In late July, the River Region Thundercats arrived at the Orange Beach Softball Complex at 7 a.m. for their first game of the day. After 16 hours, five games and one rain delay, the players finally left, taking a new trophy with them. The United States Specialty Sports Association (USSSA) held its annual national tournaments for fast-pitch softball last month in Gulf Shores. The Thundercats, who were represented by players from Elmore County, Wetumpka and Tallassee, competed in the 16U tournament. “It was rough by that night,” Thundercats team manager Suzette Tatum said. “They were out of gas but they didn’t give up… Friday finished on nothing but adrenaline.” The championship came down to the final play of the tournament Friday night. With the game tied 6-6, the Thundercats had runners on second and third with no outs in the final inning. Elmore County’s CJ Thornton laid down a squeeze bunt, allowing Hannah Parker to score the winning run for the Thundercats. “The team’s hearts were in it and they wanted to win,” Tatum said. “They didn’t want to go home without getting the trophy.” Sinclair Cole, of Tallassee, pitched in four of the five games for the Thundercats on the final day. She was named

Submitted / The Herald

The River Region Thundercats pose with their trophy. Team members include, front row, from left, Alyssa Beam, Hanna Parker, Madelyn Becker, C.J. Thornton; back row, coach David Isenhour, Sinclair Cole, Kailey Voland, Sierra Black, Ebone Pierson, coach Eddie Stepens, Maci Curlee, Madison Britt and coach Mike Curlee.

the Most Outstanding Pitcher for the tournament and won MVP. “I wasn’t expecting it,” Cole said. “It was a great feeling because I felt that meant someone who was watching me play thought I deserved it.” Cole recorded seven wins as a pitcher during the week and finished with 18 strikeouts while posting a 1.55 earned run average. She also hit one of the team’s three home runs and led the Thundercats with 15 runs batted in. Cole

finished the tournament with a .444 batting average. Madison Britt was the team’s offensive leader, finishing with a team-high 14 hits and a .700 batting average. She reached base a total of 19 times in 11 tournament games. The Thundercats defeated every team in the field but they had to fight through a little bit of adversity before being awarded the trophy. After winning all four games in pool play, the Thundercats found themselves

in the losers’ bracket after dropping the first game in the knockout round. The team won its second game on that day to advance to the tournament’s final day, setting up the miracle run Friday. The Thundercats defeated the team from Louisiana on Friday morning 13-0 and set the tone for the rest of the day. The blew past OutkastSteadman, the team that beat the Thundercats in the first round, then defeated the Apex Fastpitch squad from Troy to

advance into the championship series on Friday night, setting up the late dramatics in the finale. The Thundercats had a total of 10 players with five different high schools represented. Cole is from Tallassee while Sierra Black goes to Wetumpka. Thornton, Britt, Maci Curlee, Ebone Pierson, Madelyn Becker and Alyssa Beam attend Elmore County. Parker is at Brewbaker Magnet School and Kailey Voland attends Prattville.

Wildcats prepare for Morgan after emotional opening win By CALEB TURRENTINE Sports Writer

In the opening week of the season, the Edgewood Academy football team won its first AISA game since 2015. After the 13-12 win over Northside Methodist, the Wildcats turn their focus to Morgan Academy in week two of the season. Edgewood coach Darryl Free understands the excitement behind the first win but wants the team to know it is just the beginning. “It was a big accomplishment for them and how much they have overcome,” Free said. “We told them to enjoy it for a while but now we have to get back to the film and figure out how to get better mentally.” Edgewood escaped with the victory last week despite its 10-point lead nearly disappearing at the end of the game. The Wildcats had chances to put the game out of reach but were troubled in the second half by fatigue and penalties. A total of 14 flags were thrown against Edgewood, totaling 125 yards. The offense stalled inside the opponent’s 10-yard line twice with penalties forcing the Wildcats to settle for a field goal on both occasions.

Read more about Edgewood’s victory on Page A9.

Submitted / The Herald

Former Wetumpka star Kavosiey Smoke (20) runs through a practice drill during his first fall camp at the University of Kentucky.

Smoke

Cliff Williams / The Herald

Edgewood’s Kolby Potts and Cade Bazzell combine to stop Northside’s Bryan Smith.

“We have to teach mental toughness and mental discipline,” Free said. “Once you get into full

speed in a game, it has to be second nature for your body to react to the See WILDCATS • Page A9

Volleyball

continued from page A7

Caleb Turrentine / The Herald

Wetumpka coach Margo Thomas directs her team during the Indians’ first week of practice for the 2018 season.

chemistry. “No one really wants to be there so we might as well make the most of it while we’re there,” Tyler said. “We have been able to joke around and have some fun to get to know each other.” The Indians are still confident they can have a successful campaign this year. They move into an area with Stanhope Elmore and Selma but Thomas does not want to worry about who the opponents are yet. “We want to focus on our team and making it the best it can be,” she said.

“We’re just looking for consistency in practices and that will come over time with repetition.” Wetumpka will begin its season Aug. 31 as a part of the Mayor’s Cup in Montgomery. The Indians will open with Brewbaker Tech on Friday evening and will play a total of four matches during the weekend. “We really like playing in the Mayor’s Cup,” Thomas said. “It is a great opening to the season because it tells us what we need to work on and what our weaknesses are.”

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this season while still being redshirted for his first year on campus. He said he has objectives he needs to meet at the college level but he already has bigger goals for the future. “I definitely want to get my degree and build relationships with my teammates,” Smoke said. “I also want to play at the next level. Everybody wants to go to the NFL.” Smoke and the Wildcats will begin their season Sept. 1 with a home game against Central Michigan.

Kick off the football season at Gold Star Park STAFF REPORT TPI Staff

Wetumpka will be holding a community pep rally Thursday at Gold Star Park to prepare for the 2018 football season. The Wetumpka High School band will be in attendance, along with the dance team, cheerleaders and a surprise guest speaker. The event will begin at 6:30 p.m.

Wetumpka Archery Park opening to be rescheduled

Due to weather and road construction issues, the opening of the Wetumpka Archery Park that was scheduled for Tuesday was postponed. A notice will be sent out when the event has been rescheduled. For more information, contact the Alabama Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division at 334-242-3469.

THE WETUMPKA HERALD

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

AUGUST 22, 2018 • Page A9

EDGEWOOD WINS Wildcats earn victory behind late plays from seniors By CALEB TURRENTINE Sports Writer

Edgewood Academy won a game over an AISA opponent for the first time since 2015 on Friday night at Edgewood Stadium. The Wildcats (1-0) defeated Northside Methodist Academy 13-12 after late heroics from seniors Tyler Abernathy and Hunter Bowdoin. “I didn’t need them to be any different than themselves tonight,” Edgewood coach Darryl Free said. “They are tough as nails and they’re not going to stop fighting until the end. When you have that sort of mentality, you find yourself in the right place at the right time.” Northside Methodist scored with 3:43 to go in the game to cut Edgewood’s lead to 13-12. The Knights looked to tie the game with the extra point but Abernathy came through the middle of the line and blocked the kick.

Cliff Williams / The Herald

Edgewood’s Mitchell Boyd brings down Northside’s Jusdon Crum as Clay Williams pursues.

“I just saw we had our backs against the wall,” Abernathy said. “I really

wanted this win so I just went with everything I had.” Abernathy recovered the

ensuing onside kick to set the Wildcats up in perfect See EDGEWOOD • Page A10

Wildcats

continued from page A8

game. So, we need to ramp up the speed in practice to make it more game-like.” Several Edgewood players struggled to stay on the field late due to fatigue-related injuries. There were four different starters stuck on the sideline throughout the second half with muscle cramps. “If you’re going to play both sides of the ball, you have to condition like you’re going to play both sides of the ball,” Free said. “Do what you can do to be smart and be prepared the best you can to give your team a chance to win on Friday night.” Morgan Academy will visit Edgewood after dropping its season opener in overtime. In the opener, Morgan’s Ed Williams finished with 143 yards of total offense as a weapon for the rushing attack and passing attack for the Senators. Coach Josh Thacker is in his third season in charge of the program. Last season, he led the team to its first playoff appearance since 2012. “They’re always known as a scrappy and physical team,” Free said. “They run a lot of variations and will be a huge challenge for us. But it’s about the next game up, we focus on getting better every snap and let the scoreboard take care of itself at the end of the ball game.”

Cliff Williams / The Herald

Wetumpka hosted its annual meet and greet and intersquad scrimmage on Friday night, as injured quarterback JD Martin, bottom right, watched from just outside the stadium.

Indians They are discrediting you as a football player and what you’ve accomplished. This takes the focus off the loss of JD and back on to the team.” While injuries never come at a good time, for the Tribe, Martin’s injury came the week before the annual fall scrimmage game. With the wounded quarterback watching from the front seat of a van parked outside of the end zone, his teammates went to work. Malik Davis returned the opening kickoff 90-plus yards to start the game. Tyquan Rawls, who moved over from defense during the spring and began taking snaps with the first team offense, accounted for two scores. “Coach was like, ‘Do you

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and play your game. Don’t worry about JD; don’t worry about mistakes,’” Rawls said. “Coming from the defense, I didn’t have my arm all the way where it needs to be. But that first touchdown pass felt good. I was kind of nervous the first snap, scared to mess up.” But after a pair of handoffs, Rawls founds his rhythm. The 5-foot-11 junior tossed one touchdown pass, a 40-yard catch and run, then in the waning moments of the game called his own number on a quarterback sweep and ran into the end zone from 30-plus yards out. “The thing that I’m so proud of, we dealt with the injury, but now we can put our focus where it needs to be

and Tyquan is a great athlete,” Perry said. After Martin’s injury, Rawls went to work. According to Perry, Rawls and teammate E.J. Rogers — who is also Martin’s best friend and sometimes roommate — was staying after practice to run routes. “They were like brothers, so E.J. was emotional about the injury to JD,” Perry said. “But instead of having a chip on his shoulder about it, he got with Tyquan and immediately went to work. When I saw that, I thought it was a pretty good statement about this team.” With the threat of summer storms on the horizon, Perry held off canceling the scrimmage and the decision

proved to be a great one for his squad. “I wanted to get out here and give them a game atmosphere and get the adrenaline going and have a crowd and have that game night atmosphere,” Perry said. “We needed a different atmosphere other than practice to springboard them into game week and I thought it was a great way to end the preseason.” With Martin on the shelf, Rawls and sophomore quarterback Brandon Bowman took snaps. Bowman also accounted for a pair of touchdown passes. In his postgame huddle, Perry looked over his squad of hungry Indians and made it

clear this week was going to be very different. He told them t the attitude in the weight room was going to change and on the practice field too. The preseason was over and it was game week. “I don’t know what’s going to happen. I can’t predict the future,” Perry said. “But these guys are confident and believe in themselves and what we are doing. We keep telling them to finish the fight and they haven’t questioned that. We want them to think that Wetumpka is the best team on our schedule. It’s been rewarding to see this kid have had such devastating news and deal with and then turn the focus on game week and on Fairhope.”

PAGE A10 • AUGUST 22, 2018

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

GOLD IS A ’BAMA GEM Eli Gold speaks at Lake Martin club fall meeting By LIZI ARBOGAST Sports Editor

Eli Gold is used to being in the spotlight. He is, after all, “the voice” of one of the most storied college football programs in history. So, it seemed natural when Gold took the stage at the Willow Point Golf & Country Club for the Lake Martin ’Bama Club’s fall event. Gold, who is the radio broadcaster for the University of Alabama football team, told stories, laughed with the crowd and talked about the Crimson Tide for more than hour, and his stories never got old for the crowd. Gold began his speech by talking about how Lake Martin ’Bama Club President Nancy Hodges got him to come down to Alexander City for the event. He claimed she first asked if he believed in the Constitution, then said he must believe in free speech because he is a broadcaster. Gold agreed he did believe in free speech, then Hodges said, “Good, ’cause I need you to come down to Alabama to do a free speech for our club,” Gold told the room full of laughing attendees. During his story-telling, Gold also talked about his new team of broadcasters, which include Rashad Johnson, a former Tide and NFL player, and John Parker Wilson. Wilson is replacing Chris Stewart as the color announcer; Stewart suffered a stroke earlier this summer but will continue as part of Gold’s team as the broadcast host. Johnson will be the sideline reporter. “What we’re doing is going to be very interesting because when that first snap of the first game against Louisville takes place, that’ll be the first play that John Parker Wilson or Rashad have ever worked on a broadcast,” Gold said. “Both men have been on

Amy Passaretti / The Herald

Above: Lake Martin ’Bama Club members gather at Willow Point Golf & Country Club.

many talk shows. They’ve guested and hosted talk shows, but they’ve never been on a game broadcast. It’s a whole different animal.” Gold also addressed the elephant that’s in every room full of Alabama football fans these days — who is going to be the Tide’s quarterback this season? In Gold’s style of the night, he answered with a joke. “I went and saw coach (Nick Saban) before I left to go to Chicago, and I said, “All these clubs are asking me, what can I tell them?’” Gold said. “He said, ‘I’ll get back to you.’ So he gets back to me and says, ‘All right, wait til you get back to the state of Alabama and then you can tell them the truth.’ So, the truth is, the coach has decided that I am going to be the starting quarterback. Thank you very much for your support.” On a more serious note, Gold did say honestly he thought Saban likely hasn’t made a decision between Jalen Hurts and Tua Tagovailoa.

Eli Gold But if the decision must be up to anyone, Gold said he thought Saban was the best man for the job. “That’s the kind of decision that the coach will have to make, and that’s the reason the coach is who is he is and why he is the coach,” Gold said. “Folks, the man is the

most remarkable coach, the most remarkable human being and the most remarkable football mind you have ever encountered in your life. I’m telling you, I have never been around a man who is so focused, who is so intense and who is so intent on getting the job done correctly.”

THE WETUMPKA HERALD

Edgewood

continued from page A9

position to run out the clock. However, after the Knights blocked a late punt, Edgewood needed one more play to secure the victory. After a personal foul moved Northside to the home team’s 15-yard line, the Knights threw a swing pass to the right side of the field. A group of Edgewood defenders knocked the ball loose and Bowdoin was the one who came out of the pile with the ball. The Wildcats took one more offensive snap and celebrated the win. “I’m just happy for the kids,” Free said. “They have been through so much. They faced that adversity and had that extra mental toughness at the end to get the win.” While it was the seniors who stepped up in the fourth quarter, it was the play of the other players who allowed the Wildcats to be in position to win the game. Running back Kolby Potts led the offense throughout the night. He finished with 123 rushing yards on 20 carries. The junior said he expected the workload after the week in practice. “The offensive line was working tonight,” Potts said. “They were blocking for me and there were holes open everywhere.” Sophomore quarterback Alex Johnson connected with junior Kaleb Varner for the team’s lone touchdown. Johnson finished with 103 passing yards after completing 12 of his 19 attempts in his first start at the varsity level. The Wildcats finished with 266 yards of offense. Junior Robert Stewart made field goals of 21 and 26 yards plus the deciding extra point for Edgewood. On defense, the Wildcats held off the visitors for three quarters before stamina became an issue. Northside quarterback Bauer Sharp threw for 189 yards and two touchdowns, both coming in the final quarter for Northside (0-1). Edgewood made up for it with eight tackles for a loss as a team. “We were playing aggressive,” Wildcat junior defensive end Cade Bazzell said. “Everybody was hype and just flying to the ball.”

Weekend Football Forecast

Lizi Arbogast Santana Wood Caleb Turrentine Griffin Pritchard Brian Tannehill Fairhope @ Wetumpka Stanhope @ Chilton Co. Mont. Cath. @ Tallassee Morgan Acad. @ Edgewood

Caleb Turrentine / The Herald

Sports Editor

Design Editor

Staff Writer

Correspondent Correspondent

Wetumpka

Stanhope Elmore Tallassee

Morgan Academy

Edgewood Academy

Stanhope Elmore Montgomery Catholic Morgan Academy

Morgan Academy

HELP US WITH OUR AWARD-WINNING SPORTS COVERAGE

Junior running back Travarasia Duncan (24) finds a hole in the defensive line during Stanhope Elmore’s practice.

Stanhope winning nine games across three seasons with the Tigers. He said he still has a good relationship with the school and the opposing coaches but this game just feels like any other game. Chilton County is now under coach Tal Morrison, who was at the helm in 2017 for the 1-9 season. The school now moves down to Class 5A and hopes to have more success. Bradford said slowing down senior running back Cameron Wright will be a key to stopping the Tiger offense. ShiKeem Laister will return as the team’s starting quarterback as Chilton County tries to use an experienced backfield to improve its offense. The Mustangs will turn to their own experience in the backfield as senior quarterback Kerenski

continued from page A7

McGhee returns from an injury. Stanhope will be using a multitude of looks at the running back position but Bradford said junior Travarasia Duncan has stepped out of the crowd during the final week before the season. As the first snap gets closer, the players are ready to get out on to the field. While some teams like to use the opening week as a bye week, Bradford said the excitement level at practice has been high but the kids are tired of hitting each other. “We’re just ready to get out there and play,” he said. “We have too much energy to just sit around another week and not play a game.” The game between the Mustangs and the Tigers is scheduled to kick off at 7 p.m. at Tiger Stadium in Clanton.

Tallapoosa Publishers is looking for people with a love of sports and a passion for writing and/or photography to help us cover high school sports in Tallapoosa, Coosa & Elmore counties. We are seeking correspondents to cover games, starting with the upcoming football season.

Interested? Email Lizi Arbogast lizi.arbogast@alexcityoutlook.com Please include name, number & writing samples, if possible.

THE WETUMPKA HERALD

AUGUST 22, 2018 Your community, your news ...

Local news TheWetumpkaHerald.com

AUGUST 22, 2018 • Page B1

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PAGE B1

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Bond increased for Wetumpka child sex abuse suspect degree rape are both Class 18. On July 20, he received A felonies. If convicted, additional charges of rape in Strength could receive a life the first degree, sodomy in sentence in prison and owe the first degree, sexual abuse up to $60,000 in court fees. in the first degree and two Sexual abuse of a child counts of enticing a minor. younger than 12 is a Class Elmore County Sheriff Bill B felony, and first degree Franklin alleged that Strength sexual abuse and enticing a had been abusing a child minor are Class C felonies. victim for years, and the abuse Strength Strength was booked into the began before the victim turned 12. Elmore County Jail after his arrest First degree sodomy and first

By AMALIA KORTRIGHT Bureau Chief

The bond for a Wetumpka man who was recently charged with multiple sex crimes involving an underage victim was nearly doubled following a recent bond hearing. Michael Wayne Strength, 31, who lists an address on Windy Ridge Road, was initially charged with sexual abuse of a minor on July

Girl Scouts hosting recruitment events

Rex served with the WPD for almost eight years. After Rex retired in 2015, he was adopted by his handler, Sgt. Darrell Spraggins.

By AMALIA KORTRIGHT Bureau Chief

The Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama is encouraging current scouts, as well as girls who are interested, to renew their memberships or sign up at two upcoming recruitment events in Wetumpka. “This is for everyone in Elmore County, not just for Wetumpka, even though both events are in Wetumpka” GSSA Marketing and Communications Director Meghan Cochrane said. The first event is scheduled for 6 p.m. on Sept. 13 at the Redland Baptist Church Fellowship Hall, and the second is set for Sept. 20 at the First United Methodist Church. According to Cochrane, the events will be used to form new troops, as well as place girls in existing troops in the area. Girl Scouts is open to girls from kindergarten through 12th grade, and according to a press release from the GSSA, gives them an all-girl, femaleled space to “take chances, try new things and learn to succeed through failure.” The press release said many of the activities offered by Girl Scouts involve developing planning and leadership skills, and allow girls to participate in community service projects, STEM and outdoor expeditions. “The public thinks we’re just cookies, crafts and camping,” Cochrane said. “This is our time to show parents what Girl Scouts is all about.” GSSA CEO Karlyn Edmonds said involvement in Girl Scouts can also help girls hone their academic strengths. “It’s not just a girl’s confidence and attitude that improve through Girl Scouts, they also become better students,” Edmonds said. “Through Girl Scouts, girls learn not to avoid difficult tasks and they become stronger challenge-seekers who are more likely to feel academically engaged and competent as a result.” While attendance at one of the events is encouraged, Cochrane said it is not required. To find out more about joining or volunteering with a local Girl Scout troop, visit Girlscoutssa.org or test “GIRL” to 33222. “We really want to prepare these girls to be our future leaders,” Cochrane said.

and remains there. The bond amounts for each of the charges Strength received on July 20 were originally set at $30,000 and were reset to $100,000. The increase brought Strength’s overall bond amount up from $300,000 to $650,000. As of Friday, representatives from the Elmore County Courthouse had not responded to requests for additional comment.

Submitted Submit mitted ted / The He Heral Herald raldd

County school board votes in favor of purchases By AMALIA KORTRIGHT Bureau Chief

‘He was like my son’ Wetumpka Police Department mourns loss of retired K9 By AMALIA KORTRIGHT Bureau Chief

he Wetumpka Police Department announced the death of retired K9 Rex on Aug. 13. According to the WPD, Rex, a German Shepherd, had been battling multiple medical conditions before he died. Rex was born on Dec. 14, 2004 in Slovakia. After he arrived in the United States, he was trained on detection, tracking and pursuit in Jackson, Mississippi by Randy Hare of the Alpha K-9 Training Center. Rex joined the Wetumpka Police Department in November 2007, and was assigned WPD Sgt. Darrell Spraggins as his handler. Spraggins said being assigned Rex was an honor, and referred to him as his best friend. “He was definitely more than just a partner to me. He taught me what it was to honor, protect, serve and love,” Spraggins said Monday. “It was like I lost a child yesterday.” During his eight-year career, the press release stated that Rex assisted in making “hundreds” of narcotics-related arrests and helped the WPD and other law enforcement agencies track and apprehend suspects. Through his work tracking fugitives, Rex received a Letter of Commendation from the U.S. Marshall’s Task Force and was recognized by the Montgomery Probation and Parole Office. “Without a doubt, if we were on a search for drugs and Rex was in there, there was no doubt that there were drugs based on his demeanor,” Spraggins said. Spraggins recalled one occasion when Rex tracked down a suspect who had assaulted a Dadeville police officer, and another when he helped locate a man who had fallen unresponsive after suffering a medical

emergency. Rex also frequented events at schools, churches, animal rescue centers and humane shelters. Every year, Rex and Spraggins would demonstrate different training simulations to show how the WPD operates its K9 unit. “The positive and lasting impact that Rex made while serving the city of Wetumpka over his eight years of service before retiring in 2015 will never be forgotten,” read a press release from the WPD. Rex officially retired on Oct. 29, 2015, and Spraggins was allowed to adopt him as a family pet. While his transition to retirement posed some challenges at first, Spraggins said he was able to adjust to being a full-time member of the family. Spraggins said WPD Chief Greg Benton, assistant Chief Ed Reeves and Chaplain John Gallups were present with him and his wife when Rex was put down. He thanked them for their support. “There were a lot of tears and a lot of respect,” Spraggins said. Spraggins also thanked the city of Wetumpka and the WPD for trusting him to work alongside Rex and allowing him to adopt Rex once he retired. “He was like my son. He was with me 24/7,” Spraggins said. The WPD asked the community to keep Spraggins, his family and the officers who knew Rex in their thoughts and prayers at this time. “The bond between a human and an animal has been described innumerable times as ‘they are like family.’ The bond between a police officer and their K9 partner runs even more deeply,” the press release read. “It is with great sadness that Sgt. Spraggins, his family members and members of the Wetumpka Police Department must now say farewell to a ‘fellow officer’ who served this community selflessly and passionately.”

Third Millbrook robbery suspect arrested by Millbrook police By AMALIA KORTRIGHT Bureau Chief

The Millbrook Police Department recently apprehended a third suspect connected to an armed robbery that took place at Belle Vue Square Apartments on Aug. 2. Jarceon LaJames Banks, 23, who lists an address in Banks Montgomery, was arrested by the United States Marshal Service and turned over to the MPD on Aug. 15. He was charged with robbery in the first degree and burglary in the first degree. According to an MPD press release, the detectives identified the suspect as Banks

and filed warrants for his arrest. The U.S. Marshal Service later located him and took him into custody. MPD Chief P.K. Johnson said the MPD turned another suspect, Oshai Sharief McLean, in to the Prattville Police Department on multiple charges from their jurisdiction. Johnson said he believes charges from the PPD are pending against Banks, as well. Johnson said the arrest and subsequent charges came as a result of collaboration between the MPD, the U.S. Marshal Service and the Prattville Police Department. “Our investigators are in constant contact with their counterparts in our sister cities on a daily basis, and we share intelligence and assist each other in the

identification and apprehension of those wanted for these violent criminal acts that occur because criminals don’t have jurisdictional boundaries,” Johnson wrote in the press release. “Usually we are looking for the same offenders. Such is the case in this instance.” The first two suspects, McLean and Delano Gilcrest, both of Montgomery, were arrested the day after the robbery occurred after they allegedly forced a victim into his apartment at gunpoint, stole some items. One suspect allegedly pointed a firearm at an MPD officer after police arrived. As of Monday, Banks remained in the Elmore County Jail on bonds totaling $100,000. Both first-degree burglary and first-degree robbery are felony charges.

The Elmore County Board of Education unanimously voted to make several purchases during a regularly-scheduled meeting on Monday. The board agreed to accept a low bid of $35,042.04 from Atlas Manufacturing, based in Alapaha, Georgia, for a greenhouse kit that will be placed at the Elmore County High School agriculture department. Secondly, the board voted to accept a low bid of $12,550 from Sun South of Clanton to purchase a John Deere 865 Diesel utility terrain vehicle for the use of the Holtville High School agriculture department. Board members also agreed to purchase two 2018 Ford F150 trucks from Collier Ford of Wetumpka, which will be used as transportation service trucks for the school system. The trucks will cost $39,385.82 each. They also voted in favor of accepting the proposed auto insurance quote of $67,352.93 per year from the Alabama Trusts for Boards of Education. Lastly, the board accepted the Elmore County 5-year capital plan.

Many a

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THE WETUMPKA HERALD

‘The ever-elusive pursuit of happiness’

n a recent reading in the devotional called “The Valley of Vision: A Collection of Puritan Prayers and Devotions,” I found the following statement to be both enlightening and convicting: “Convince me [Oh God] that I cannot be my own God, or make myself happy.” Here are a bunch of questions that clanged around my mind as I pondered on the statement above: If we could “make” ourselves happy, and had the power of God to do so, then what would we do? What would we seek out? What would we grant to ourselves? Would we succeed in making ourselves happy? If we did what we thought would make ourselves happy, then would we find ourselves disappointed in the end? Would we look at our lives and begin to remove pain and difficulties and supply ourselves with pleasures of various types? Is it possible that

we would, Shockingly, discover that by deleting the trials from our life and by maximizing pleasure to the fullest extent that we would find ourselves even more empty and unfulfilled at the end of the day? Christian author and apologist Ravi Zacharias has often said this regarding our pursuit of pleasure: “I am absolutely convinced that meaninglessness does not come from being weary of pain; meaninglessness comes from being weary of pleasure. And that is why we find ourselves emptied of meaning with our pantries still full.” Zacharias has also said on many occasions that, “The loneliest moment in life is when you have just experienced that which you thought would deliver the ultimate & it has just let you down.” Could it be that God actually Does know what He’s doing whenever He has allowed some sort of terrible cross or pain into our

BILLY REINHARDT Riverside Heights Baptist Church lives? Could it be that God, in His wisdom, and Who actually has the “Big Picture” of the history of the universe in mind, actually knows more than we do? Could it be that we have an infinite number of “blind spots” when it comes to understanding the wisdom and will of God, especially as it relates to various types of trials and difficulties in our lives? We must be assured of God’s love for us during those trials (proven by the Cross of Christ), and we must also be assured of God’s presence with us during those dark moments (Jesus has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you”Hebrews 13:5), but we must also

be Equally Assured that God has a purpose behind our pain, even if we don’t see it or understand it (see Romans 8:28, etc.). Another Christian writer has said, about the concept of being “God,” that if he had the power of God, he’d answer every prayer he ever asked for and that he would respond positively to every request for relief from every adverse circumstance that existed; but he also said that if he had the wisdom of God, then he’d leave everything just the way it is. We often complain about God’s laws and complain about circumstances that cross our desires for happiness because we do not actually know what happiness is and because we do not really know what can bring about this elusive status of “being happy” as long as we live on this earth. Ignorance, as to what our soul needs, drives and creates our misery. Pretending

to be omniscient & “God-like” creates our frustrations. We don’t believe, nor do we trust God to run the universe; we think we can do better. Again, may we lean on and trust in a God Who is far greater, far wiser, and far bigger than we could every think or imagine. Romans 11:33-36: “33 Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways. 34 ‘For who has known the mind of the Lord, or who has been his counselor?’ 35 ‘Or who has given a gift to him that he might be repaid?’ 36 For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever. Amen.” Billy Reinhardt is pastor at Riverside Heights Baptist Church and a regular faith columnist for Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc.

Area Churches AME ZION Mt. Zion Chapel AME Zion 2340 Crenshaw Rd., Wetumpka 567-4413 Rogers Chapel AME Zion 709 W. Bridge St., Wetumpka 567-8144 Jackson Chapel AME Zion 4885 Coosada Rd., Coosada Jones Chapel AME Zion 2414 Ingram Rd. (Co. Rd. 3), Elmore ABUNDANT LIFE Abundant Life Church 9301 U.S. Hwy 231., Wetumpka 567-9143 ASSEMBLY OF GOD Agape Tabernacle Assembly of God 1076 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic 541-2006 Bethel Worship Center 11117 U.S. Hwy 231., Wetumpka 5675754

Crossroads Assembly of God 2534 AL Hwy 14., Millbrook 285-5545 First Assembly of God 3511 Shirley Ln., Millbrook New Home Assembly of God 5620 Caesarville Rd., Wetumpka 5692825 BAPTIST Abraham Baptist Church Millbrook Antioch Baptist Church 1115 Antioch Rd., Titus 567-2917 Beulah Baptist Church 2350 Grier Rd., Wetumpka 514-2881 Blue Ridge Baptist 4471 Jasmine Hill Rd., Wetumpka 5674325 Brookwood Baptist Grandview Rd., Millbrook

Calvary Baptist 504 W. Osceola St., Wetumpka 567-4729 Central Baptist 3545 W. Central Rd., Wetumpka 541-2556 Coosada Baptist 20 Kennedy Ave., Coosada Deatsville Baptist 184 Church St., Deatsville Eclectic Baptist Church 203 Claud Rd., Eclectic 541-4444 Faith Baptist 64 Chapel Rd., Wetumpka 567-4417 First Baptist Church 205 W. Bridge St., Wetumpka 567-5191 First Baptist of Elmore Hwy. 14 Co. Rd. 74, Elmore Galilee Baptist 95 Old Georgia Rd., Wetumpka 567-4178 Good Hope Baptist 1766 S. Fleahop Rd., Eclectic

Goodship Baptist 1554 Hwy. 143, Millbrook 285-0094 Grace Baptist Old Montgomery Hwy., Wetumpka 567-3255 Grandview Pines Baptist 346 Deatsville Hwy., Millbrook 285-5125 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

ARMONY H United Methodist Church

Wallsboro United Methodist Church 11066 U.S. 231 • Wallsboro R Kim Rev. Webb, Pastor

8000 Titus Road Titus, AL

Ric R c Rickey Luster, Mu M Music Director

Sunday Services at 11a.m. ___

Sunday Sc Sunday Schoo School.........10:45 hool a.m. Morning a.m. g Worship........9:30 p Children’s Church......9:30 C Chi hiildr ld en’ n’ss Chur C hurrch. ch. h ... .....9 ..99:30 :3 a.m. Tuesday Bible Study.........Noon Tu T ueesd u day B ibl blle Stud b dy.. y..... .. ....Noon on n

Minister Dr. John Brannon

There is Harmony at Harmony United Methodist Church!

You Will Receive a Warm Welcome at This Friendly, Christ-centered Church. NURSERY PROVIDED FOR ALL SERVICES

*Please Join Us*

205 W. Bridge Street • Wetumpka, AL (334) 567-5191 SUNDAY WEDNESDAY Sunday School...................8:45 am Fellowship Meal...............5:00 pm Kids’ Activities.................6:00 pm Worship Service..............10:00 am Youth Worship..................6:00 pm Evening Worship..............5:00 pm Prayer & Bible Study.......6:15 pm Visit us at fbcwetumpka.com

SANTUCK BAPTIST CHURCH

504 West Osceola Street 334-567-4729

7250 Central Plank Road “A Family of Families”

••••

Rev. Anthony Rhodes, Senior Pastor Sarah Swedenburg, Worship Ministries

B.R. Johnson, Senior Pastor Larry Gore, Adm. & Counseling Randy Godfrey, Education Matt Fallin, Worship

Derek Blankenship, Student Ministries

SUNDAY SERVICES Sunday School...........9:30 a.m. Morning Worship.....10:30 a.m. Small Group...............5:00 p.m. WEDNESDAY SERVICES Prayer Meeting...........6:00 p.m. Student Worship........6:00 p.m. Calvary Kids...............6:00 p.m.

F rst

Cedarwood Community Church 10286 U.S. Hwy. 231 Wallsboro, AL (334) 567-0476 www.worshipcedarwood.org

WETUMPKA Matt Albritton, Pastor

www.firstwetumpka.com

SUNDAY

WEDNESDAY

8:15 AM..........................Chapel 9:20 AM.............Sunday School

3:00 PM............Children/Youth Program (Bus Pickup) 5:15 PM.........................Supper 5:45 PM........Youth Bible Study 6:00 PM....Adult Choir Practice 6:15 PM.........Adult Bible Study

10:30 AM..................Sanctuary 12 Noon.........Hispanic Service 5:30-7:00 PM....Youth Program

2281 Main St., Millbrook Living Water Baptist 1745 Grass Farm Rd. (Co. Rd. 80), Titus 514-7304 Millbrook Baptist 3431 Browns Road, Millbrook 285-4731 Mitts Chapel Baptist 935 Cold Springs Rd., Deatsville 569-1952 Mt. Hebron West Baptist 150 Mt. Hebron Rd., Elmore 567-4441 Mt. Herron East Baptist Church 4355 Mt. Herron Rd. Eclectic, Al 36024 334-857-3689 Mountain View Baptist 1025 Rifle Range Rd., Wetumpka 5674458 New Harmony Baptist 3094 New Harmony Rd., Marbury 3121878

306 W. Tuskeena Street •(334) 567-7865

Sunday Bible Study...9:00 AM Sunday Worship......10:00 AM We are a Congregational Christian Church which, in the name of Jesus, invites all to worship with us.

Nursery ____

Check out our Facebook page

SUNDAY Sunday School........9 & 10:30 a.m. Worship...................9 & 10:30 a.m. Evening Celebration...........5 p.m.

www.centeringlives.com

WEDNESDAY/FAMILY NIGHT Programs for every age 6:15 - 7:30 p.m.

1025 RiÀe Range Road • Wetumpka 334.567.4458 www.mvbaptistchurch.info

Dr. Tim Thompson - Pastor Angie Gallups - Worship Leader Sunday Morning Worship............10:30 Sunday School..................9:15 Evening Worship..............6:00 AWANA (Aug.-May).......5:25 Wednesday Activities 6:00 Adults......Prayer and Message Youth/College......Bible Study Children’s..........GA’s & RA’s

Spring & Fall Soccer Seasons K4-6th Grade

Send your church news and happenings to: news@TheWetumpkaHerald.com ____________

Call Marilyn Hawkins 334.567.7811 to advertise your church’s services in this space

THE WETUMPKA HERALD

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

AUGUST 22, 2018 â&#x20AC;˘ Page B3

Wetumpka Kidz Page

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$ 6SHFLDO 7KDQN <RX 7R $OO 2XU 6SRQVRUV RANDALL V. H OUSTON DISTRICT ATTORNEY APPLIANCE PROPANE

Clanton: (205)755-4242 â&#x20AC;˘ Prattville: (334) 365-5715 Wetumpka: (334) 567-2237

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Supporting Education!â&#x20AC;?

CITY COLLISION, LLC 89077 Tallassee Hwy. Tallassee, Alabama 334-391-7345

Alabama Foot Care Center

2304-B Gateway Drive (Hwy. 280) Opelika, AL Feet Hurt at All? Call Dr. Paul!

334-741-7600

www.alfootcare.com

2425 Dozier Road Wetumpka, AL

(334) 478-4938

Commercial & Residential Byron Peavy, Licensed Plumber 4144 Central Plank Rd. â&#x20AC;˘ Wetumpka, AL 334-567-9941 or 334-324-0884 peavyplumbing@yahoo.com

5268 U.S. Hwy. 231â&#x20AC;˘ Wetumpka

334-567-5136

JONES AUTO & AUTO & RV REPAIR CENTER, LLC WRECKER SERVICE 917 Company Street | Wetumpka, AL OWNER: ROGER JONES Serving the Local Area for 44 Years 24/7 (334) 567-7108

1259-C South Memorial Drive â&#x20AC;˘ Prattville, AL

334-365-5085 w w w. p r a t t v i l l e r v. c o m

Slapout Wetumpka Clanton Tallassee 334-569-3325 334-567-8833 334-755-2739 334-283-2795

Elmore Co. Farmerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Co-Op

2530 East 5th Street Montgomery, AL

355 QUEEN ANN ROAD WETUMPKA, AL

334-265-1208

(334) 567-4321

Southeast J. Alan Taunton & Company, LLC Storage

4 Locations in Elmore County 334.567.3000 334.567.4000 www.southeaststorage.com

SHERIFF

740 Memorial Drive â&#x20AC;˘ Prattville, AL

74 Commerce Street â&#x20AC;˘ Montgomery, AL

(334) 567-4567

334-834-6640

www.arrowpestcontrol.net

www.aldridgeborden.com ALIGNMENTS

TIRES/BRAKES

Singletonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Alignment And MufďŹ&#x201A;er Service, LLC

Alfa Insurance

220 Company Street â&#x20AC;˘ Wetumpka, AL

ÂŽ

www.alfainsurance.com

Call Alfa.ÂŽ The best agents in the business.

EXHAUST

334-567-6760 OIL CHANGES

MONTGOMERY CHILDRENâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S S P E C I A LT Y

C E N T E R

A 54-bed pediatric nursing center that accepts kids ages 18 & under 2853 Forbes Drive â&#x20AC;˘ Montgomery, AL 36110 (334 ) 261-3445 w w w. m o n t g o m e r y c h i l d r e n s c a r e . c o m

4400 Wetumpka Hwy. Montgomery, AL 36110

334-517-6157

Visit our website for our current inventory!

www.riverviewautosales231.com

Certified Public Accountants

â&#x20AC;˘ Tax Planning and Tax Preparation â&#x20AC;˘ Bookkeeping and Accounting Services â&#x20AC;˘ Payroll and Payroll Tax Services â&#x20AC;˘ Small Business Consulting Services â&#x20AC;˘ Quickbooks and Sage Peachtree Assistance

200 Executive Park Dr. Phone: 334-283-2567 P.O. Box 780248 Fax: 334-283-6900 334.567.5441 Tallassee, AL 36078-0248

Sheriff Bill Franklin

Emergency: 911

E-mail: alantaunton@taunton.cpa.com

Everything Rotates Around You!

WETUMPKA TOULOUSE

KEITH CANNON, Owner

Autoâ&#x20AC;˘Homeâ&#x20AC;˘Life

Riverview Auto Sales GUARANTEED FINANCING!

111 Eastdale Rd. South|Montgomery, AL 36117|Phone: 334.272.5656 5859FindUS AL â&#x20AC;˘ 334-478-3360 www.eastmontanimal.com us onHwy. Facebook 231 â&#x20AC;˘ Wetumpka,

ELMORE COUNTY

James Hamner 26 Cambridge Dr. Wetumpka, AL 36092 (334) 567-5156 jhamner@alfains.com

PRATTVILLE

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Honest Labor â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Fair Pricesâ&#x20AC;? We Offer Mobile Service!

2198 Kent Road â&#x20AC;˘ Tallassee, AL (334) 546-0425 license #07069 www.keepyoucomfy.com

PEAVY PLUMBING

Wee Oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Preschool & Beyond â&#x20AC;&#x153;Train up a child in the way he should go and when he is old, he will not depart from it.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Proverbs 22:6 Offering Before/After School & Full/Part Time

Saturday 7:30 AM until Noon

AMBULANCE www.pricepaintandbody.com 827 US Hwy. 231 â&#x20AC;˘ Wetumpka, AL (334) 478-4975

HOURS: Monday - Friday until 5:30 PM 7:30 AM ____

Wetumpka Tire Pros 1745 U.S. Hwy. 231 â&#x20AC;˘ Wetumpka, AL 36093

Toulouse Tire Pros 5376 U.S. Hwy. 231 â&#x20AC;˘ Toulouse, AL 36092

334-514-0455

334-567-0012

www.wetumpkatirepros.com

2461 MAIN STREET MILLBROOK, AL

334-285-5540 INDOOR AND OUTDOOR SEATING UPSCALE AND BBQ CATERING www.Smokehousebbqmillbrook.com

450 Hackel Drive Montgomery, AL

(334) 273.1119 or (800) 253.6619

BarďŹ eldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Heating and Air BOBBY BARFIELD, Owner

Residential, Light Commercial Sales - Service â&#x20AC;˘ Installation Commercial & Industrial 105 Haggerty Circle â&#x20AC;˘ Wetumpka, AL

(334) 514-9678

PAGE B4 â&#x20AC;¢ AUGUST 22, 2018

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AUGUST 22, 2018 â&#x20AC;¢ Page B5

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THE WETUMPKA HERALD

Humane Society of Elmore County News

Pet of the Week – Miss Pink

iss Pink is a just too cute, 5-month old female mix pup. She weighs about 20 pounds now, so she should be in the 35-pound range when fully grown – the perfect size for almost any family. She is a very playful, sweet and loving pup. She is good with dogs and cats and loves children. Shelter adoption fees are $100 for dogs & $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, free health exam with a participating veterinarian. To meet Miss Pink and the other pets at the shelter, visit the Humane Society of Elmore County located at 255 Central Plank Road in Wetumpka. For more information, visit www. elmorehumane.org for more information, email hselco@bellsouth.net or call 334-567-3377. The shelter is open for adoptions from Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

First-ever Putts Fore Paws event set for Thursday By REA CORD HSEC Executive Director

This Thursday is our first-ever Putts Fore Paws at the Emerald Mountain Golf Club in Wetumpka on Thursday, Aug. 23 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. All thanks to the Alabama News Network, this is the first of what we hope will be a recurring annual event so hope to start off big! Entry fee is $300 per four-person scramble and the team fee includes green fees, golf carts, food, door prizes and more! To register, submit and fill out the On-Line Registration Form and all teams must be registered prior to Aug. 23. Team registration at Emerald Mountain will begin at 6:30 that day, with a shotgun start at 8 a.m. For more information or to become an event (team or hole or general) sponsor, call 334-270-2834. Many thanks to Montgomery Subaru, Greenville Foot Care and Harriott II Riverboat for coming on board as sponsors already! We will also be out

at Emerald Mountain with a few of our pets and sure hope to see a lot of teams enjoying a morning of golf while also supporting our shelter and the hard work of the Montgomery CW! We are blessed to have wonderful support from our community and that means September is shaping up to be a very busy month. On Sunday, Sept. 16 we hope for another huge crowd at our 13th Annual Bark in the Park at Fort Toulouse. The fun for both humans and dogs goes from 1 to 5 p.m. with vendors, food, games and more. Get your pet microchip from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. with the help of the Tuskegee Veterinarian School for only $25 which covers the chip and registration. You will be able to get a professional photo of your pet, perhaps have your dog’s toenails trimmed, let your dog paint its very own ‘paw’ painting, search out hidden shelter painted rocks, visit wonderful local Vendors, get something yummy to eat, and

purchase one of our Bark in the Park 2018 T-shirts for sale for $15. We will also have a Blessing of the Pets prior to our always popular Pet Parade! Admission to Bark in the Park is $5 per person 13 years old and older. All dogs coming to Bark in the Park must be good in public, meaning good around children, adults and other dogs in a very busy situation, AND they must have a current rabies tag/proof of rabies vaccination to come to the Park. Vendor spots are still available, and Bark in the Park is a great place for folks to be able to learn about your business, product or service. We welcome local businesses, clubs, civic groups, etc. Our vendor fee is only $35 and you must bring your own tables/pop-up/chairs. There is no electricity available so if you must bring a generator please let us know for site planning. To get a vendor application please contact us at the shelter at hselco@bellsouth.net or call us at 334-567-3377.

Saturday, Sept. 29 is going to be a super busy day as there will be two great events on behalf of our Shelter. If you are a motorcycle enthusiast, join us for the 16th annual Cruisin’ For Critters at Déjà Vu, located 121 North Burbank Drive in Montgomery! This event is all thanks to the incredible members of the Predators Riding Club Montgomery and we cannot thank them enough for sticking with us for 16 years — our longest running event! More info to follow but make sure to mark your calendars. Also on Saturday, Sept. 29 at 4 p.m., come out to Ida Belle Young Park at 5400 Vaughn Road in Montgomery for a first ever Charity Flag Football Game between Team Stallion and Sincerely Yours as they play to raise money for our shelter, Humane Society of Elmore County, and Resurrection Catholic Church. More info to follow as this grows. No admission, but donations gratefully appreciated.