Dec 23, 2015 Wetumpka Herald by Tallapoosa Publishers

THE WETUMPKA HERALD Elmore County’s Oldest Newspaper - Established 1898

Wetumpka, AL 36092

50¢

WEDNESDAY • DECEMBER 23, 2015

THEWETUMPKAHERALD.COM

VOL. 118, NO.52

Local whistle-blower awarded $30 million By KEVIN TAYLOR Copy Editor

Monday morning Blake Percival had accomplished two of the three items on his list. He was working on the third by mid-morning Monday. For more than two months the federal government had been keeping Percival on edge wondering if he would ever see a dime of the $30 million settlement he earned after filing a false claims lawsuit

against his former employer USIS. “Every Friday for the last two months I would get the rug pulled right out from under my feet,” said Percival, a former Wetumpka police officer and resident of the area for 10 years. Each Friday Percival was in contact with his attorneys at Beasley Allen Law Firm in Montgomery texting to see if the money was going to be deposited into his account. Every Friday Percival would get the same answer. “Sorry, no.”

But last Friday Percival got a text from Larry Golston first thing that morning saying the law firm will be cutting him a check that afternoon. “It was pure elation,” Percival described his feeling after seeing the text. Percival then got up from his cubical at his job in Montgomery and walked into a broom closet to call his wife. “I had asked her if we were still going to the (Montgomery Christmas) parade and get a sub sandwich afterward. She

Local man hit, killed by vehicle

Today’s

Weather

77 69 High

Low

USPS 681-260

See WHISTLE • Page 2

Obama commutes Slapout man’s sentence

By KEVIN TAYLOR Copy Editor

A Wetumpka pedestrian was struck by a car and later died as a result of the incident Saturday evening just outside of the Wetumpka city limits. Lamkeo Phongsamout, 37, was pronounced dead at the scene at 6:30 p.m. after being struck by a 2008 BMW at the 115 mile marker on U.S. Highway 231 on the River Bridge. Alabama State Troopers said the driver of the vehicle stayed at the scene of the accident, which remains under investigation by Troopers. This marks the second Wetumpka pedestrian to be killed in less than a month. Donna Renee Murphy, 46, of Wetumpka was struck and killed by a vehicle in Montgomery Dec. 9.

said yes. Then I asked her how it felt to be a millionaire. And she just started crying,” he recalled. Percival went from having a little more than $50 in his checking account to more than $3 million by Friday afternoon. After dedicating his career to the criminal justice system, Percival was hired by USIS as an investigator for the company, which performed federal background checks to grant security

Mercer was serving 292 months on drug and weapons charges By KEVIN TAYLOR Copy Editor

Kevin Taylor / The Herald

Lt. Ed Gumpf checks his onboard computer earlier this year. Police locally and across the state will increase patrols during the holiday period. Photo by Kevin Taylor

Troopers increasing holiday patrols By KEVIN TAYLOR Copy Editor

The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency will have increased patrols on the highways this week through Jan. 1 with the hopes to promote highway safety and protect lives. Given the much lower cost of gas this year compared to last year, Col. John E. Richardson, director of ALEA’s Department

of Public Safety expects the roadways to be much busier. “Alabama State Troopers will work with their law enforcement partners across the state to promote safety,” Richardson said. “Creating a highly visible enforcement presence, Troopers and their county and municipal counterparts will work to prevent crimes See TROOPERS • Page 2

A Slapout man was one of 95 non-violent prisoners who President Barack Obama commuted their prison sentence Friday. Billy R. Mercer Jr. was sentenced to 292 months after being found guilty of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamines and the use or carry of a firearm in relation to a drug trafficking crime. Mercer was sentenced May 24, 2006. The president commuted his sentence, so Mercer will be released April 16, 2016. Mercer was arrested Oct. 10, 2004, in a hotel room in Prattville on an outstanding warrant issued by the Millbrook Police Department, according to federal court documents. See SENTENCE • Page 2

Corn Creek public access project to start in early 2016 By JOHN W. PEELER Managing Editor

The public access area, once leased by the Coosa River Paddling Club, should be back in operation next year through a new joint partnership with Elmore County, the City of Wetumpka and the paddling club. Richie Beyer, the Elmore County engineer said the access road had to be closed for about a year and a half, but finding a solution in creating a new access road had been ongoing until recently.

Prior to the new Emergency Operations Center construction, Beyer said the Coosa River Paddling Club had a lease for the area and maintained the road from the firing range used by the Sheriffs office all the way down from the river. “When we started the construction on the Emergency Operations Center, … it was determined, because of security reasons, we were going to have to cut access back to the park and use an alternate See PADDLERS • Page 2

Contributed / The Herald

The Coosa River Paddling Club LLC., present a check for $15,000 to the Elmore County Commision for the project to reopen Corn Creek to the public. From left to right are Bill Garnett; David Haynes; Vanessa Lynch, Executive Director at Wetumpka Area Chamber of Commerce; Robert Smith, Don Harris, Lonie Carden and Chris Carter. (Back row) County commissioners from left to right are James “Trey” Taylor, Joe Faulk, Chariman David Bowen, Mark Hragyil and Stephanie Daniels Smoke.

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TheWetumpkaHerald.com

Page A2 • DECEMBER 23, 2015

THE WETUMPKA HERALD

Confiscated vehicles to help Whistle fill realistic training needs By JOHN W. PEELER Managing Editor

The Elmore County Commission approved a move that will give volunteer firefighters another opportunity for realistic training through the use of confiscated cars. “These are all scrap cars and inoperable and were confiscated in some way shape or form by the drug task force or sheriff,” said Richie Beyer, county engineer for Elmore County. The vehicles are currently located in the county lot in the District 2 shop. Beyer said the cars have been in the county lot withering and rusting away and the county couldn’t do anything with them because they were confiscated, until now. “We had to wait till all the court proceedings went through … most of them don’t have VINs that match … so we couldn’t sell them as cars, so we scrapped them and sold them as scrap metal and we received absolutely no bids on them,” Beyer said. Since there were no bids on the vehicles for scrap metal, Beyer said the idea was to offer the

vehicles to the Volunteer Firefighter Association to use as training aids. “They do a lot of training with the ‘Jaws of life’ and extraction … training like that for vehicle accidents. I talked a little bit with Eric (Jones) at EMA and the (Elmore County Commission) chairman (and asked) if that would be feasible to them, and it was,” he said. Since the county didn’t receive any scrap bids, Beyer said they could donate the vehicles to the firefighters training group. Beyer said the vehicles would be especially helpful, in addition to providing training for firefighters, during County Government Day, which is scheduled for April. During government day, high school seniors from across the county are invited to see their county government in action. “Typically, the Volunteer Firefighters Association has people there (at government day) and they do a demonstration where they actually extraction with the jaws of life,” he said. “At a minimum, we can let them use one or two of those vehicles (for the demonstration).”

continued from page 1

clearances. Percival climbed the corporate ladder within the company. The higher he got the more he learned that the company he was working for was failing to perform the required reviews in at least 665,000 background checks. Meanwhile, the government contractor continued to take payment for incomplete work. It was also tasked with checks on Edward Snowden and Washington Naval Yard shooter Aaron Alexis. Percival decided to come forward and tell the truth, which led to his immediate termination from USIS. At the time of his termination, he was in the middle of moving his family from Minneapolis to Pennsylvania. He had a company car. He was expensed the move and was living in a corporate apartment. All of that was now gone. To regroup, Percival, 49, had no other option. He and his family moved in with his mother in Montgomery until he could find a job and move into a rental home. The ordeal was just beginning. While trying to piece his life back together, he sought out legal help. In 2011 his lawyers filed suit against USIS for fraud. Two years later the Justice Department joined Percival’s lawsuit. “Not many people in this country go through what I went through and then have the government stand behind you and say, ‘that’s not right.’” Percival said. “It’s nice when Uncle Sam recognizes what you do for the sake of

your government.” Internal documents show that senior management had no knowledge of what was going on. “This practice was followed in order to meet USIS’s internal goals for completed cases and, therefore, to increase the company’s revenue and profits,” according to court documents. USIS entered into a settlement then this past spring announced it had filed for bankruptcy. “At that point we didn’t know what assets were left,” Golston said. “We were blessed that there were some to be used in the settlement of this case.” The Justice Department reached a $30 settlement, but it was still dicey as to what would be Percival’s piece of the pie. Last Friday, the government wired more than $6 million to Percival’s attorneys. “I picked up the check at my attorneys’ office, went to the bank and told them I wanted the check cashed and I wanted all 20s,” he said with a laugh. “Then I told them I want to open an account.” The ordeal, the wait, the anxiety was finally over. After depositing that check Friday, Percival made a list of three things to do. He quit his job. He threw out the rest of the expired meat stored in the freezer. And on Monday, he put down a deposit on a RV so he and his family could hit the road.

Troopers

continued from page 1

and violations on Alabama roadways and waterways that lead to deaths and injuries.” Since 12:01 a.m. Dec. 18, Troopers have investigated six fatalities. The four fatalities in which seat belts were available, they were not used. Richardson said sobriety and usage of a seat belt are two key components to maintaining safe travel this holiday season. Last year three of the 19 Trooper-investigated fatalities involved the usage of alcohol. Nine of 16 people who

were killed in automobile accidents did not wear their seat belt during the holiday period last year. An infant who also died was unrestrained. “Using these two driving tips, avoiding alcohol or drugs and buckling up, could save a life,” said Spencer Collier, secretary of law enforcement. Troopers will work additional shifts during the holiday period thanks to funding provided by the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs.

Paddlers

continued from page 1

route,” Beyer said. Between the commission, the City of Wetumpka and the Coosa River Paddling Club, a solution was found. “We’ve been working on that with the Coosa River Paddling Club, who had previously held a lease with the county to maintain and operate the trails and roads that go back down into the Coosa River,” Beyer said. “We were able to come up with a solution that was going to cost us about $50,000 in materials to cut in a new road a little further south on (U.S. Highway) 231. “The City of Wetumpka is putting in $15,000 for MIKE WHORTON, Broker Cell: (334) 315-9207 Of¿ce: (334) 514-1988 Email: whorton10524@earthlink.net

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materials, the paddling club is putting in $15,000 and the county is putting the other $20,000 plus putting all the labor and equipment in to build the new access road,” he said. “It’s a win-win for everybody.” Lonie Carden, president of the Coosa River Paddling Club, who said he considers himself an environmentalist, said he has always been concerned about public access to rivers, creeks and streams. “It was terrible it shut down,” he said. “It will be good to have it open again.” Beyer said the county would start working on the project to make the area accessible after the first of the new year since there is now a partnership agreement with the Coosa River Paddling Club and the City of Wetumpka.

Sentence

continued from page 1

Following his arrest, motel cleaning personnel found two plastic baggies of meth in a tissue dispenser in Mercer’s room, the complaint said. During a search, police found a loaded .380 semi-automatic handgun and a red zippered pouch under the bed. In the pouch police found 50 smaller bags containing meth, according to the complaint. In total 15.6 grams of meth was found, according to federal court documents. Forty of the 95 were serving life sentences. Mercer was one of four Alabama prisoners in which their sentences were commuted.

New Montgomery market looking to hire up to 95 employees By KEVIN TAYLOR The Wetumpka Herald

A temporary hiring center has opened at 4145 Wall St. in Montgomery to accept applications for employees of the new Walmart Neighborhood Market on Congressman W.L. Dickinson Drive directly across from the Garrett Coliseum. Applications are being accepted from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Applicants can also apply online at http:// careers.walmart.com. Store manager Jeff Young said the store will be hiring full-time and part-

time employees. Young said up to 95 jobs have been created with the opening of the new store. “Providing the best customer service is what we strive for in all our stores, and we are excited to find and welcome our new team,” Young said in a press release. A majority of the new workers will begin work in January to prepare the store for its grand opening. Walmart provides benefits to eligible full-time and part-time employees ranging from health benefits to matching 401(k) contributions up to 6 percent of the employee’s pay.

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THE WETUMPKA HERALD

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

DECEMBER 23, 2015 • Page A3

2015 Christmas Light Winners The 2015 Christmas light Decoration Winners are as follows:

401 W. Bridge St. Rev Robert and Billie Rose

Business

Residential 1st Place Sweepstakes: 255 Sandy Springs Drive, Ken and Jennifer Sweatman 1st Place Traditional: 107 E. Tuskeena St., Jim and Sharon Watson 2nd Place Traditional: 908 Oak Crest Ct. Charles and Jean Causey 3rd Place Traditional: 458 River Oaks Dr. Helen Carroll 1st Place Whimsical: 55 Sandy Springs Dr, Mark & Billie Freeman 2nd Place Whimsical: 311 Government St. May and Jerry Eason 3rd Place Whimsical: 401 W. Bridge St. Rev Robert and Billie Rose Most Christmas Spirit Mayor’s Award:

1st Place Sweepstakes: The Vault, 111 Company St. 1st Place Whimsical: River Perk, 109 Company St. 2nd Place Whimsical: A Beautiful Creation, 855 Holtville Rd 3rd Place Whimsical: Zap Pest Control, 2426 US. Hwy 231 1st Place Traditional: Blue Ridge Chiropractic, 106 Court St. 2nd Place Traditional: Regina Edwards, P.C, 109 E. Bridge St. 3rd Place Traditional: Austin’s Flowers & Gifts, 118 Company St.

Submitted / The Tribune

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Tallassee Chamber of Commerce 2016 Annual Banquet & Awards Ceremony THURSDAY, JANUARY 21, 2016 6:00 pm Social, 7:00 pm Dinner & Program Wetumpka Civic Center 410 S. Main St, Wetumpka, Al Tickets: $35/person, $250 Reserved Table for 8 ***Tickets must be purchased or reserved in advance***

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

OPINION

Page A4 • DECEMBER 23, 2015

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

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

THE WETUMPKA HERALD

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.

Our View From all of us to all of our valued readers, Happy Holidays

his time of the year it’s always too easy to get caught up in all the commercialism of the holiday season. But, it should be a time to step back, give thanks for all the good that’s come to us and appreciate this time of the year for it’s true meaning. Far too often we do forget to thank those that have helped us along the way throughout the year. Many times, we try and do that with gifts rather than just a simple “thank you” or taking the time to express, in words, what someone means to us rather than what if gift-wrapped in a box. It is the time of the year when we should be kinder and nicer to those that may not be as fortunate as we might be individually. For us at The Wetumpka Herald, The Tallassee Tribune and The Eclectic Observer, we want to thank you for taking the time to be involved in and read our newspapers. We appreciate everything you do to make this truly “your community newspapers.” Whether it’s advertising, writing letters to the editor or opening your doors for us to do a story on something you feel is important, we appreciate your time and ideas. From all the staff at the Elmore County newspapers, we truly appreciate you and wish for you a very Merry

Your View

ou may have seen the news that the Central Alabama Veterans Administration has now opened a new 150,000 square-foot, state-of-the-art clinic on Chantilly Parkway, in eastern Montgomery. Our veterans deserve a world-class facility like this one, and I was proud to join my colleague Rep. Mike Rogers, community leaders and Veterans Affairs officials to cut the ribbon on this impressive new facility. The VA’s new Chantilly clinic is intended to increase access to care for veterans who depend on the VA for medical and psychological services. The deep and complex problems that have plagued the VA nationwide, and particularly in this area, are well-documented. When I worked with whistleblowers and the press to expose major counts of malfeasance, mismanagement and cover-up within the Central Alabama VA, we knew extensive changes would have to be made and that the road to success would be a long one. But, I am encouraged by recent progress. Badly needed staff has been hired to fill some of the gaps that have existed for years. Major headway has

MARTHA ROBY U.S Representative

been made to reduce the backlog of patients waiting for appointments. All this means more veteran patients are receiving the care they need in a timely fashion, and that’s what it is all about. Of course, a new building will not fix all the problems with patient access by itself. As nice as it is, this new facility doesn’t make the journey for care any shorter for veterans living in Greenville, Andalusia, Troy or other areas relatively far from VA hospitals in Montgomery and Tuskegee. That’s why I’m working to build a network of local hospitals, clinics and other providers that can allow many veterans to access care right in their hometown. Very soon, I will be bringing together local, regional and national VA leaders to sit down with hospital Chief Executive Officers from around Alabama so we can

work out an agreement to develop this community veterans health network. When veterans are able to get treated by local providers, it means they aren’t forced to drive long distances to receive care. It also means the demand at existing VA facilities is lessened so they can tend to the patients already on their rolls. I believe this commonsense, hybrid approach is the future of veterans health care, and I’m optimistic we can build a community veterans health network here in Alabama that can serve as a model for the nation. It is refreshing to be able to share some positive news about our work to improve the VA. My staff and I will remain vigilant in making sure our veterans are receiving the care they need because that’s our job. I hope the opening of the new VA facility marks a turning point in our mission to improve VA services and make sure no veteran gets left behind. Martha Roby represents Alabama’s 2nd Congressional District. She is currently serving her third term.

Residents encouraged to keep Elmore County clean

A poem to all for Christmas Dear Editor, I am Carol Eason, mother of three adult sons; grandmother of four granddaughters, and one grandson. I have been an avid writer since the age of 14 and for a short time worked at The Wetumpka Herald. I am a former member of the Alabama Writer’s Conclave. My writings include poems, articles, and stories in genres of comedy, romance, tragedy, satire, and mystery. I have written and write for all ages children, teens, and adults — female and male. I currently reside in Montgomery, Alabama. This poem, “Santa, I Was Wondering” was composed in 1980. It was originally published 35 years ago in the Dec. 25, 1980 edition of The Wetumpka Herald. I wrote it from the perspective of children, three to eight years of age, male and female. One slight revision was required to “update” it. I hope the readers enjoy reading the poem as much today as I enjoyed writing it 35 years ago in this same paper. Merry Christmas and have a wonderful holiday season. Carol Eason Montgomery Santa, I Was Wondering Is the North Pole really far, far away? And how many toys will fit in your sleigh? Why is your beard so soft and white? And do you have to go to bed early at night? Are you always jolly with no tears in your eyes, And do you like to eat hamburgers and French fries? I wonder if you like to play in the sand, And watch cartoons about make-believe land. Do you like Mickey Mouse, Twilight Sparkle, Spider Man, and Winnie the Pooh? I like all of these, and Sesame Street, too, I was just wondering if you are like me. If so, you will know the things to leave under my Christmas tree. Santa, my Mommy is waiting, so I must go.

334-567-7811 • Fax 334-567-3284 e-mail: News@TheWetumpkaHerald.com THE WETUMPKA HERALD (681-260) is published twice weekly on Wednesday and Saturday 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 # 1536-688X. We reserve the right to refuse to print any advertisement, news story, photograph or any other material submitted to us for any reason or no reason at all. •Obituaries - $.25 per word per paper. Additional $15 charge for a photo per paper. (Herald, Weekend, Observer, Tribune). •Weddings/Engagements - $.25 per word per paper. $15 charge for a 2-column photo. •Birth Announcements - $.25 per word per paper. $15 charge for a photo. SUBSCRIPTION RATES (includes Wednesday & Saturday) One Year in Elmore, Tallapoosa or Coosa County $50 One Year Elsewhere $75 The publisher reserves the right to change subscription rates during the term of subscription at any time. To subscribe or if you miss your paper, call 256-234-4281. © 2015 Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. All rights reserved and any reproduction of this issue is prohibited without the consent of the editor or publisher. NEWS John Peeler, managing editor John.Peeler@TheWetumpkaHerald.com. . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 302 Cory Diaz, sports editor Cory.Diaz@TheWetumpkaHerald.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 306 Kevin Taylor, copy editor Kevin.Taylor@TheWetumpkaHerald.com.. . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 312 SALES Jayne Carr, marketing consultant Jayne.Carr@TheWetumpkaHerald.com. . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 313

Member

New VA facility is a turning point

Member

To better serve citizens, the Elmore County Commission would like to offer some useful information to help Elmore County “keep the wave of the future clean.” For residents of Elmore County living outside any municipal limits, garbage collection service is available through Advanced Disposal. Trash pickup in Elmore County is on a weekly basis. Citizens can help control litter by securely bagging and sealing all household waste that’s put into Advanced Disposal containers. Bagging household garbage ensures trash does not blow out of the truck once it is picked up from a residence. Advanced Disposal trucks use an automated arm to pick up containers and dump waste in the truck. Therefore,

The County Line By The, Elmore County Commission

all bagged garbage must be put in the garbage container in order to be picked up. As a reminder, to help citizens dispose of waste that won’t fit in a garbage can, the county commission sponsors free Countywide Clean Up Days every month at two or more locations. Locations, directions and dates are available on the county website at

www.elmoreco.org or by calling the Elmore County Commission Office at 334-514-5841. Advanced Disposal will be closed on the following holidays: Friday, Jan. 1, 2016 - New Years (routes will be picked up Saturday) Monday, July 4, 2016 Independence Day (routes will run a day behind all week) Thursday, Nov. 24, 2016 Thanksgiving (routes will be one day behind) Christmas is on Sunday, Dec. 25, 2016 and will not affect pick up routes For more information, call Advanced Disposal at 334-2520458 or visit their website at www.advanceddisposal.com.

Reflecting on this year’s monumental political events

s we look back over the past year’s political events one week stands out. During one week in the middle of 2015, three momentous events occurred. All three came down bang, bang, bang in the week leading up to the fourth of July. First was the landmark decision by the U.S. Supreme Court, which deemed same sex marriage legal and the law of the land. Then the historic BP settlement, which granted Alabama $1.3 billion for environmental recovery and an additional $1 billion for economic losses. Finally, was Governor Bentley’s executive order removing all of the confederate flags from the Capitol. All three decisions will have an impact on state politics. How will these three events affect Alabama politics in the next few years? The removal of the confederate flags affects only Gov. Robert Bentley. Since Gov. Bentley is prohibited by the constitution from seeking a third term as governor and at that time he will be 76, so it is doubtful that Bentley runs for office again. Therefore, it has no political effect. However, years from now it will be considered as a positive reflection on Bentley’s tenure as governor. Some have suggested that it will be one of his legacies. What about the BP settlement? This windfall to the state general fund will have a positive impact for Alabama’s finances for the next two decades. $55 million a year is nothing to sneeze at. It will help legislators who are not yet on the scene balance the state’s budgets. However, what are the political ramifications, if any? Negligible

STEVE FLOWERS Columnist

at best. Governor Bentley again claims the spotlight and will be able to claim credit for the BP settlement as it came down during his administration. That brings us to the same sex marriage issue. Like the BP ruling, it is all over but the shouting. It does not matter if less than a decade ago Alabamians voted overwhelmingly for a constitutional amendment outlawing same sex marriage. The U.S. Supreme Court is the ultimate omnipotent authority and they have spoken. It is over. It is the law. My prognostication is that this issue has legs and the fallout will be felt in Alabama politics into the 2018 Governor’s Race. Roy Moore likes to ride horses. In fact, he rides his horse to vote at his home in Gallion in rural Etowah County. Our Chief Justice Roy Moore has got a horse to ride into the 2018 Governor’s Race. Like Bentley, Moore is prohibited from running for his same office again. You cannot run for a judgeship in Alabama after age 70. Roy Moore will be 72 in 2018. You can bet your bottom dollar he will be a candidate for governor. Moore made his mark by running with a granite monument of the Ten Commandments. He gallantly stood by his convictions to not remove it from the judicial building. He lost his Chief Justice position over his stance. Alabamians did

not forget his stand. Ten years later they put him back in his job as Chief Justice. My belief is that this issue will not be forgotten nor taken lying down. We are one of, if not the most religious states in America. It is a pivotal issue for Christians. It resonates and it will be a game changer. They will be reminded every time they read their Bible. Alabama politics clearly dictates that race and religion drive the vote in the Heart of Dixie. Roy Moore knows his constituency. They know him and believe me he is their man. Studies have shown that if Alabama is the Heart of the Bible Belt, the buckle is a stretch of the state just north of Birmingham. Moore chose an evangelical church in Kimberly in rural northern Jefferson County to throw down the gauntlet. He told his folks in the Heart of the Bible Belt, “Welcome to the new world. It’s just changed for you Christians. You are going to be persecuted according to the U.S. Supreme Court dissents.” In a crowded field, the evangelical vote becomes paramount. We will have eight to 10 folks running for Governor in 2018. The vote becomes splintered maybe along geographical friends and neighbors lines. However, religion trumps geography in Alabama politics. Roy Moore has found his horse and it secures him a place in the runoff in 2018. Steve Flowers is Alabama’s leading political columnist. His weekly column appears in over 60 Alabama newspapers. He served 16 years in the state legislature. Steve may be reached at www.steveflowers.us.

THE WETUMPKA HERALD

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

DECEMBER 23, 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ Page A5

Religion Calendar â&#x20AC;˘ Centerpoint Fellowship of Wetumpka will hold its Christmas Eve Candlelight Worship Service at 4:30 p.m. Dec. 24. Everyone is invited to attend. â&#x20AC;˘ First United Methodist Church will have a Christmas Eve service at 5:30 p.m. Dec. 24 in the Family Life Center. All are welcome and encouraged to attend. â&#x20AC;˘ Trinity Episcopal Church will have its Family Christmas Eve Service at 6 p.m. Dec. 24. All are welcome and encouraged to attend. â&#x20AC;˘ Cedarwood Community Church will be holding its annual Candlelight, Communion and Carol Singing Christmas Eve Service at 5:30 p.m. Dec. 24. The entire community is invited. For more information please call the church office at 334567-0476. â&#x20AC;˘ Trinity Episcopal Church will have its traditional Midnight Service at 11 p.m. Dec. 24. All are welcome and encouraged to attend. â&#x20AC;˘ GriefShare grief recovery seminar and support group will began meeting at Calvary Baptist Church in Wetumpka. The group will meet on Tuesdays from 10 a.m. until noon and on Thursdays from 7-9 p.m. There is a $25 registra-

tion fee to help cover cost of materials. The church is located at 504 West Osceola Street, Wetumpka. For more information, call the church office at 334-5674729. â&#x20AC;˘Community Fellowshippers meet at Cainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Chapel United Methodist Church every third Wednesday at 11 a.m. The gathering includes devotion, program, prizes and covered dish luncheon. Local pastors and families encouraged to attend. â&#x20AC;˘ Calvary Baptist Church offers a Bible study â&#x20AC;&#x153;War Roomâ&#x20AC;? Mondays at 6:30 p.m. at Uncle Bobâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Doghouse in Wetumpka. Everyone is invited. Call the church office at 334-452-1931 for more information. â&#x20AC;˘Mulder Memorial United Methodist Church hosts a noon salad luncheon the third Thursday of each month from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Call 334-567-4225 for more information. â&#x20AC;˘First Presbyterian Church of Wetumpka holds a fellowship lunch every third Sunday after worship. â&#x20AC;˘Celebrate Recovery, which deals with lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hurts, habits and hangups, holds meetings every Thursday at 6:15

p.m. at Santuck Baptist Church. â&#x20AC;˘Christians of all denominations are invited to participate in a cooperative Bible Study held each Tuesday 1-2 p.m. at 103 West Tuskeena St. in Wetumpka The group is self-led and selects a book of the Bible to read through and study together. All are welcome. â&#x20AC;˘Friendship Closet, a ministry of Friendship Baptist Church, is open the first Tuesday of each month from 9 to 11:30 a.m. and from 6 to 8 p.m. Those who need clothes, shoes, etc. for women, men and children, may visit. â&#x20AC;˘Hope For Healing Grief Support Group meets the second Monday of each month at 6 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Tallassee. â&#x20AC;˘Riverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Edge Flea Market is open every Saturday from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. at East Tallassee United Methodist Church. All vendors welcome â&#x20AC;&#x201C; new items, old items, crafts, youth groups, ball teams, baked goods, produce and food. Various booth costs available. For info, call Joan Wood at 334-313-4913 or Melanie Baker at 334-4158314. All proceeds are used for church-sponsored programs.

Obituaries Paul Downs Martin

Paul Downs Martin, 61, a resident of Wetumpka passed away on Saturday, Dec. 19, 2015, in a local hospital. Paul served with the Wetumpka Volunteer Fire Department for 36 years. He is survived by his son, Nicolas (Meghan) Martin of Palm Coast, Florida; daughter, Emily (Donald) Moncrief of Wetumpka; his mother, Swanson Martin of Wetumpka; brother, Alan (Nanette) Martin of Deatsville, and two nephews, Jonathan and Jordan Martin. He was preceded in death by his father, Paul Haroldson Martin. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m.

Violette Hammond Darnell Violette Hammond Darnell ascended on Sunday, Dec. 20, 2015, at the age of 95. She is preceded in death by her husband, William â&#x20AC;&#x153;Budâ&#x20AC;? Darnell. She is survived by her 11 children, Buddy, Darlyn, Pete, Mike, Melita, Nona, Rob, Conie Mac, Macy, Noel and Dale and their spouses. She has 39 grandchildren, 72 great grandchildren and 5 great-great grandchildren. Graveside services were held at noon Dec. 22 at Montgomery Memorial Gardens. A Celebration of Life in Christ service was held at 3 p.m. Dec. 22 at Thelma Baptist Church in

Dec. 23 at Mountain View Baptist Church with the Rev. Anthony Counts and Jamie Reynolds officiating. Burial will follow in Kaylor Cemetery. Active pallbearers will be members of the Wetumpka Fire Department. Honorary pallbearers will be Chuck Lail, Evan Adams, John Gallups, Lyndon Pouncy, Jeff Rogers, Mark Hollingsworth and Tim Powell. Visitation was 5-7 p.m. Dec. 22 at Gassett Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, donations are requested to any Wells Fargo Bank under â&#x20AC;&#x153;Donations for Paul Martin.â&#x20AC;? Online guest book available at www. gassettfuneralhome.net

Wetumpka. Memorials may be made to your churchâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s missions ministry or your favorite

charity. Online guest book available atwww.gassettfuneralhome.net

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

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THE WETUMPKA HERALD

In trying times remember, O God our help

few weeks ago, less than a month after the Paris attacks, the news reported another senseless attack, this time in San Bernardino, California. Authorities think, but don’t really know of it was terrorism, workplace violence or both, although I don’t see much difference between them. We do know that 14 are dead; that shrill voices are screaming from whatever agenda or political or religious persuasion they represent; that survivors are left to deal with the aftermath of their terror and fear; and families are left to grieve and deal with the sorrow of their loss. Then, only a week later, another attack, this time in a London subway station. And, then, on the Second Sunday of Advent, Dec. 6, we came into Church to worship God and hear God’s words of comfort from apocryphal Book of Baruch: “Don’t worry, I’ll lead you through it.” Baruch is speaking to that remnant of the Hebrew nation left behind in the ruins of Jerusalem after the Assyrians conquered the Nation, tore down the city walls, destroyed the Temple, and took most of the survivors into exile. Echoing Isaiah and other prophets, Baruch says: “Arise, O Jerusalem, stand upon the height and look toward the east, and see your children gathered from west and east, at the word of the Holy One, rejoicing that God has remembered them. For they went forth from you on foot, led away by their enemies; but God will bring them back to you, carried in glory, as on a royal throne. For God has ordered that every high mountain and the everlasting hills be made low and the valleys filled up, to make level ground, so that Israel may walk safely in the glory of God. The woods and every fragrant tree have shaded Israel at God’s command. For God will leadvIsrael with joy, in the light of his glory, with the mercy and righteousness that come

REV. BOB HENDERSON Trinity Episcopal Church

from him.” This is a poetic way of saying, “Trust God, God will lead you through, God will bring you home.” There words are just as applicable to those who were trying to live in the rubble of the destroyed city, as they were to those taken away to exile, as they are to us, here, today. God is here with us, God will lead the lost back, God will lead us through. I’m not sure we believe that. Over and over, I see posts on Facebook that say: “Bring God back to America”; “Bring God back into our schools;” “Bring God back into our lives.” Well, folks, God doesn’t need to be brought back. God has never left!! God is here with us, even in San Bernardino, even in Paris, even in the London Subway stations, even in Wetumpka. God is here, and as God said through Baruch, God will lead us through whatever tragedy befalls us, even when it doesn’t seem like it. Image what those Hebrews trying to live in a destroyed Jerusalem thought about God’s presence or absence: imagine what those in captivity thought – “Why is this happening, where is God, how do we bring God back?” Those are the same questions we often ask. One of the problems we have in answering those questions is our attitude toward God. We, today, just like the ancient Hebrews,

Wetumpka Church of Christ 408 West Bridge Street

Jason Chesser Minister Sunday Prayer and Fellowship.......8:30 a.m. Bible Study.............9 a.m. Worship service...10 a.m. Wednesday Bible Study........7 p.m.

Visitors Welcome At All Services

want to believe, do believe that God leading us through tragedy means God will fix it. The Dec. 3, cover of the New York Daily News read, in big type: “God Isn’t Fixing This.” The article seemed to be a criticism of those politicians who urged people to pray for the people in San Bernardino, when, according to the paper, they were the ones who could fix the problem of terror attacks and mass murder. The clear implication of this headline is that God should fix it, and, since God hasn’t, won’t and can’t, what’s the use of praying. Well, I have what may be a sad truth for many – leading us through tragedy doesn’t mean fixing it; it doesn’t mean life without pain, hurt or even death. Never has, never will. Let me say that again, “leading us through tragedy” doesn’t mean fixing it: it doesn’t mean life without pain, hurt or even death. Never has, never will. This is one of the most prevalent and destructive blasphemies of Christianity. Nowhere in scripture has God ever promised to “fix it.” God promises to lead us with joy and glory where we need to go, whether it is to safety, to suffering, or to death. Part of Psalm 126 tells us how things work with God, how God helps us through tragedy: “Those who sowed with tears” will reap with songs of joy. “Those who go out weeping, carrying the seed,” will come again with joy, shouldering their sheaves. Sow with tears, reap with joy; go out weeping; come back with joy. From sadness, hurt, sorrow to joy. That’s how God works. It was that way for the Hebrews and likewise, for the Christian Church. Remember, Christianity was born in the blood of the cross, the blood of martyrs, the pain of persecution, and it has been so ever since.

First Presbyterian Church

Harmony United Methodist Church 8000 Titus Road Titus, Ala.

100 W. Bridge St.

Sunday Services at 11 a.m.

Rev. Jonathan Yarboro

Minister Dr. John Brannon

Sunday School..9:45 am Morning Worship..11 am

There is Harmony at Harmony United Methodist Church!

567-8135 “In the name of the Lord Jesus – Welcome.”

Please join us.

Mountain View Baptist Church

Wallsboro United Methodist Church 11066 U.S. 231, Wallsboro

Rev. Ryan Johnson Pastor Rickey Luster, Music Director

Sunday School..........10:45 a.m. Morning Worship........9:30 a.m. Children’s Church.......9:30 a.m. Wed. Night Service.....6:30 p.m. You will receive a warm welcome at this friendly, Christ-centered Church. NURSERY PROVIDED FOR ALL SERVICES

In our humanness, we want Christianity to be painlessly sweet, happy, worry free. Our history shows otherwise, that Christianity is not for sissies. Yes, God may level the path, but, that level path may just make it easier for us to travel to a destination filled with suffering or death. No, the promise is not safety. The promise is that God will carry us, God will lead us in Glory, with Joy, with mercy, with righteousness wherever and into whatever we need to go. Admittedly, sometimes, there are miracles of healing or relief, but, generally speaking, we live in a hard, tough, evil world. And, this is precisely why we need God and need to remember that God is in our lives to lead us, to walk with us, to carry us. With God is leading us and walking that path with us, we find strength to go wherever God leads us. Let’s not imprison God with our wishes for safety, our desire for God to fix it. Instead, let us draw comfort from God no matter what is or does happen to us, to our loved ones, to the world. God is here, now and always, not to fix what happens, but to love us when it does and lead us through to wherever His path goes. Where will that be? I don’t know. A different path, a different place for all of us, surely, but, a place where God will be with us. This Advent, like all Advents, is a time to prepare for the future – the far off future when Jesus will return, and the closer future of the rest of our lives. So, let’s prepare for those futures by relinquishing our expectation of how God should fix things, and let God lead us into what we need to do, and where we need to go on the path God has prepared; trusting God, believing in God, taking comfort in God and walking with God wherever God leads.

567-4458 1025 Rifle Range Rd.

504 West Osceola St. 334-567-4729

Anthony B. Counts, Pastor Angie Gallups, Worship Leader Billy Reinhardt, Min. of Students

Rev. Anthony Rhodes Senior Pastor

SUNDAY Morning Worship.......10:30 Sunday School.............9:15 Youth Choir ..................5:00 Evening Worship..........6:00 WEDNESDAY Fellowship Meal............5:45 Preschool/Children’s Choirs.........................6:00 House of Prayer............6:30 Preschool/Children’s Missions........................6:30 Youth Bible Study.........6:30

Tammy Driver: Children's Director

SUNDAY SERVICES Sunday School........9:30 a.m. Morning Worship...10:30 a.m. Evening Worship.....6:00 p.m. WEDNESDAY SERVICES Supper.....................5:30 p.m. Prayer Meeting........6:15 p.m. Choir Practice..........7:00 p.m.

CEDARWOOD COMMUNITY CHURCH 10286 U.S. Hwy. 231 Wallsboro 567-0476 www.worshipcedarwood.org

Roger Olsen, Pastor 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

Santuck Baptist Church

7250 Central Plank Road

“A Family of Families”

B.R. Johnson, Senior Pastor Larry Gore, Adm. & Counseling Randy Godfrey, Education Amy Pugh, Director of Children & Preschool Chad Middlebrooks, Students SUNDAY Sunday School............9 & 10:30 a.m. Worship........................9 & 10:30 a.m. Evening Celebration.................6 p.m. WEDNESDAY/FAMILY NIGHT Programs for every age 6:15 - 7:30 p.m.

Send your church news and happenings to: news@The Wetumpka Herald.com _________ Call Jayne or Shannon at 567-7811 to advertise your church’s services in this space

THE WETUMPKA HERALD

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

DECEMBER 23, 2015 • Page A7

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The Wetumpka Herald

Page 10 • DECEMBER 16, 2015

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DECEMBER 23, 2015 • Page A11

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THE WETUMPKA HERALD

2015 Herald All-Area Team

FIRST TEAM OFFENSE

OL - Madison Albright (Sr.), Stanhope Elmore -- Playing at guard, the 6-foot-1, 260 pounder graded out the highest among the Mustangs front. OL - Tyler Anderson (Jr.), Edgewood Academy -- When it ran the ball, the Wildcat offense ran it to the left side behind Anderson (6-foot-2, 305), Edgewood’s highest graded lineman. OL - B.J. Burke (So.), Holtville -- Burke’s 84 percentage was the highest among all linemen in the area, and recorded 47 knockdowns to pave the way for the Bulldogs’ flexbone scheme. OL - Markel Leonard (Sr.), Elmore County -- Panther head coach Norman Dean dubbed Leonard his best on a line that paved the way for 1,885 team rushing yards. OL - Dereck Taplin (Sr.), Wetumpka-An All-Area honorable mention last season, Taplin led a young and thin Indian line. QB - Nathan Rourke (Sr.), Edgewood Academy -- The No. 1 Canadian prospect tied an Alabama state record in touchdown passes (59), while throwing for 3,768 yards and only 3 picks. RB - Tevin Brooks (Sr.), Tallassee -- For the second straight year, Tallassee boasts a first-team back. Brooks amassed 1,816 yards and 26 scores on 258 carries. RB - Kell Floyd (Sr.), Elmore County -- Arguably the area’s most exciting player, Floyd carried this team this year, collecting 1,636 total yards and 18 touchdowns. RB - B.J. Smith (Sr.), Stanhope Elmore -- The Troy commit makes this team and eclipsed 1,000 yards rushing for the third straight year with 123 carries for 1,012 yards and 10 scores. WR - Daniel Green (Sr.), Edgewood Academy -- Green provided Rourke with a reliable target opposite Jackson Tate, hauling in 28 catches for 637 yards and 10 touchdowns. WR - Jackson Tate (Jr.), Edgewood Academy -- Tate set a new AISA record for single-season receiving yards (1,785) and had an area-leading 76 receptions and 25 scores for the ‘Cats. ATH - Kavosiey Smoke (So.), Wetumpka -- The sophomore rushed 126 times for 801 yards and 9 touchdowns and caught 12 passes for 136 yards for the Tribe. PK - Will Digmon (Sr.), Wetumpka -Digmon was solid when called upon, making five of his six field goal attempts with a long of 36 and hit 26 of 27 PATs.

FIRST TEAM DEFENSE

DL - Trent Holley (Jr.), Wetumpka -- A breakout year, the 6-foot-2, 230 defensive tackle led the line with 46 stops, four sacks and three forced fumbles. DL - Kelvin Lucky (Sr.), Edgewood Academy -- The 6-foot-6, 230-pound Nigerian product was second in the area with 11.5 tackles-for-loss and had 40 tackles. DL - Zeryes Rivers (Sr.), Tallassee -- An honorable mention last year, Rivers led the area in tackles-for-loss (12) and recorded 72 stops, 11 hurries and three sacks. DL - K.J. Stokes (So.), Stanhope Elmore -- Only a sophomore, Stokes terrorized opposing quarterbacks with 76 tackles, six sacks and two forced fumbles. LB - Jeremiah Lowery (Jr.), Stanhope Elmore -- Lowery led all area defenders with 107 tackles and added five forced fumbles and three sacks. LB - Jeremy Noah (Sr.), Tallassee -Providing consistently for the Tigers, Noah notched 61 stops, six tackles-for-loss, including four sacks. LB - DeMarvin Perry (Jr.), Edgewood Academy -- Perry rounded out the area’s best linebacking corps, finishing with 56 tackles, 7.5 tackles-for-loss and an interception. LB - Khalid Young (So.), Edgewood Academy -- For a Wildcat first-string defense that played in the second half only twice, Young led with 59 stops and holds an offer from Mississippi State. DB - Jamarcus Miller (Jr.), Tallassee -Miller’s four picks tied for the area lead and paced a solid Tiger secondary. He ended up with 45 tackles and three pass breakups. DB - Barry Mitchell (Sr.), Stanhope Elmore -- The 5-foot-10, 175-pound senior didn’t shy away from contact with an arealeading 91 tackles and had 17 pass breakups. DB - Travis Rawls (Sr.), Elmore County -- As the season progressed, Rawls played better as he intercepted four passes in the last three games of the season to go along with his 28 tackles. DB - Nick Turner (So.), Wetumpka -- In his first year starting, Turner paced the Indians’ defense with 66 stops, including two tackles-for-loss, to go along with two picks and a forced fumble. P - Trenton Lewis (Sr.), Stanhope Elmore -- The First-Team All-Area place-kicker last season, Lewis checks in as the First-Team punter this year with a 37.6 yards per punt average.

Honorable Mentions, Offense: OL - Jake Baker (Jr), Tallassee; Cody Clements (Jr), Holtville; Micah Emfinger (Sr), Tallassee; John Ellis Rawls (Jr), Wetumpka; Josh Wilson (Sr), Elmore County; QB - Will Venable (Jr) Elmore County; RB - Kareem Jackson (Jr), Stanhope Elmore; Tyler Price (So), Edgewood Academy; DeAndre Williams (Jr), Wetumpka; WR - Neal Cook (Sr) Elmore County; Jurmorris McMillon (Sr) Stanhope Elmore; Defense: DL - Jake Andrews (So) Stanhope Elmore; Austin Barnett (Sr) Edgewood Academy; Ryan Rush (Jr) Elmore County; Victor Jones (Jr) Elmore County; LB - Deangelo Jones (Fr) Wetumpka; DeAndre Meadows (Jr) Stanhope Elmore; Ty Pierce (So), Stanhope Elmore; DB - Chase Goodman (Sr), Tallassee; Dylan Lee (Jr), Tallassee; Michael Taylor (Sr) Edgewood Academy; Quinas Turner (Jr) Stanhope Elmore

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DECEMBER 23, 2015 • Page B1

To all 2015 advertisers at The Wetumpka Herald We thank you for your trust and conﬁdence. ASE Credit Union Gassett Funeral Home Jackson Thornton Russell Lands on Lake Martin Mark’s Service Center Wetumpka Flea Market Collier Ford Elmore Community Hospital Cornerstone Realty Russell Marine Santuck Baptist Church Brighthouse Guardian Credit Union Alabama Power AMCOM Alfa Realty - Jim Bailey Anne Robinson Art Bolin Wetumpka Chamber of Commerce Ben Atkinson River Bank & Trust Kowa Brian Gibbons Calvary Baptist Church Centerpoint Church Cedarwood Community Clay Boshell Cousins Insurance Covington Healthcare Dunson Lawn Service Faith Baptist Church First Presbyterian Church Grace Baptist Church Harmony United Methodist Church House & Home - Kelly House J&M Tank Lines, Inc Linville Memorial Mountain View Baptist Church Mucho Mondo Nursery Mulder Memorial Methodist Church Must Stop Cafe New York Life Re/Max Properties - Nancy Oates Sew Unique Singleton’s Alignment Stone & Britt, LLC Superior Gas - Wetumpka Trinity Episcopal Church Turf Tactics DBA Two MM Advertising Wallsboro United Methodist Church Wetumpka Church of Christ Wetumpka Medical Center Wetumpka Memorial Whorton Real Estate Window World of Montgomery Zap Pest Control A Chance to Dance A&S Transmissions Adams Drugs Alabama Yard Pro Auto Motorcar Service & Sales Aldridge Borden & Co Barﬁeld’s Heating Bell Family Chiropractic Best Buy Auto & Tire Boutique Talisi Bright Beginnings Bryson Veterinary Burnout Cycle Camo Country Chappell Tire Service Clayton Homes of Anniston Cornus Kennels Destinations Travel Dr Spencer Coleman Eclectic Family Dentistry Eclectic Family Pharmacy Frankie’s Sweet Shoppe Elmore County Farmers Coop

Elmore County Finance Gene Jones Agency George Family Farm Haynes Life Flight Holy Cross Episcopal Church Homeplace Mortgage Hornsby & Sons Body Shop J Alan Taunton & Company James Hamner Jenilyn’s Creations Jerry’s Auto Glass Karen’s Mane Tamers Lee’s Auto Repair Lisenby’s Music Shop McQuick Printing Company Riverside Chevrolet Scottish Rose Florist Smokehouse BBQ State Farm Insurance TA Wear The Gab Salon Tallassee Family Dentistry The Grumpy Dog Toulouse Tire & Auto Wee Ones Day Care Wetumpka Health & Rehab Wetumpka Tire & Auto Gutterworx Zaxby’s Alabama State Employee Credit Union Alabama AG Credit Los Mayas Quality Home Health Supreme Lending Vape Escape Alabama River Region Ballet Allegiance Staffing Arkansas Pondstock Blue Ridge Baptist Church C&S Deer Processing CE Fulmer & Sons Heady Soaps Clayton Homes of Opelika Crossfit Intrique Curves of Wetumpka Da Pop Advertising Deerfield Venues Deramus Hearing Center Diversified Alarm Doodle Bugs Eclectic Pawn El Rancho Grande Elmore County Food Pantry Elmore County BOE Elmore County Commission Elmore County Extension Office First United Methodist Church Fresenius Medical Friends of Tukabatchee Georgia Road Church Heart Links Holley Marketing J&H Gold Buyers J&M Ornamental Concrete Historical Armory, Inc Lewis Advertising JC 360 Couriers Joe Roberts Lollar Motor Company Magnolia Cremations Mary Kay - Crystal Willis Michael Miller New Colors Painting Pat Harden Prime South Bank Regional Healthcare Network Schuster Enterprises Shaker Recruitment Sharon Brugh SMI Advertising

Sonshine Floral & Gifts Radney Funeral Home Southern Pain Control Stephens Tax Ofﬁce Tallassee Community Development Tallassee Youth Softball The Learning Tree The New Hob Nob The Plant Farm Town of Eclectic Trinity Custom Homes Welch’s Veterinary Wetumpka Preschool Brookside Funeral Home Ellison Funeral Home Frederick-Dean Funeral Home Jeffcoat Funeral Home Prattville Memorial Leak Memory Funeral Home 1220 Cafe 231 Total Car Care A Perfect Cut Advanced Disposal Apex Fitness Bert Owens Cathy Thornton Chilton Surgical Associates Chris’ Hot Dogs City of Tallassee Connie Morrow Diamond, Carmichael, Gary, Patterson & Duck, P.A. Dunn & Schreiber Orthodontics Edgewood Academy Elmore County Auburn Club Elmore County Humane Society Elmore County Sheriff Exit Realty Farmers Feed Service First Community Bank Fort Hargrove Fran’s Mac Tax Fuller Warehouse & Gin, Inc GKN Aerospace Godwins Flowers Goss Auto Sales Harrison’s Pawn & Jewelry Home Integrated Solutions Joe Mamas Jones Accounting Jones Auto & Wrecker Service Lake Martin Hospice Marilyn Winborn - Insurance Agent Millbrook Chamber of Commerce Montgomery Turf Nelson Wholesale Automotive O’Dell Equipment Rental Parker Tire and Service Pigg Enterprises Pump It Up Quality Home Health R&J Recording Studio Rhonda’s Beauty Shop River View Auto Sales Robbie Silas Contracting Segrest Law Firm Solar Nails & Spa Sparkle Cleaners Storage Binz Stouts Automotive Sweet as Honey Taleecon Farmers Coop Tallassee Health & Rehab Tallassee True Value The Vault Variety United Heating & Air Wetumpka Depot Players Wetumpka Paint & Body Wing It Granite Transformations

From our family at The Wetumpka Herald, we extend our wishes to all for a happy, healthy and prosperous 2016.

300 Green Street, Wetumpka, AL 36092 | 334-567-7811

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THE WETUMPKA HERALD

Community Elmore County Seniors Christmas Party When: Dec. 23, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Where: Doster Memorial Community Center, Prattville Details: The senior services in conjunction with the Central Alabama Aging Consortium and Parks and Recreation of Prattville, will be hosting a Christmas Ball for the senior citizens in the community. It is dedicated to the senior citizens whom we serve on a daily basis at our senior centers. Wind Creek Montgomery presents “King Bee” When: Dec. 23, 7 p.m. Where: B.B. King Restaurant at Wind Creek Montgomery Blood Drive When: Dec. 23, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Where: Walmart of Millbrook Details: Hosted by LifeSouth Community Blood Centers, Inc. Wind Creek Montgomery presents “The Dion Hawkins Experience” When: Dec. 26, 6-8 p.m. Where: B.B. King Restaurant at Wind Creek Montgomery Blood Drive When: Dec. 27, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Where: Walmart of Millbrook Details: Hosted by LifeSouth Community Blood Centers, Inc. City of Wetumpka New Year’s Eve Celebration When: Dec. 31

Camp Chandler New Year’s Bash When: Dec. 31-Jan. 1 Where: Camp Chandler Details: Children ages 5-14 are welcome. Activities will include fishing, archery, riflery, broom hockey, field games, pedal boats, canoes, putt putt, and more. Camp Chandler campers will bring in the new year with a party, fireworks and even a ball drop. YMCA members $40, non-members $50. For info, call 334-229-0035. Lewis Black -- The Emperor’s New Clothes: The Naked Truth Tour When: Jan. 7, 7:30 p.m. Where: Montgomery Performing Arts Centre Details: Tickets start at $25. Purchase them at ticketmaster.com Self-Defense Class When: Jan. 11 Where: Tallassee Recreation Center Details: Contact the recreation department if you are interested

Billy F. Stroud, Sr., a resident of Tallassee, Al. He was born March 6,1938 in Wetumpka. Mr. Stroud passed away Wednesday Dec.16,2015 at age 77. He retired from the City of Wetumpka and was a veteran of the U.S. Army. He is survived by his children Brenda Joyce Evans, Shirley Ann Funderburk, Sandy Smith, Billy F. Stroud, Jr., Mark Stroud, Cathy Stroud, Lisa Nelson and Shelton Davis; numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren along with a host of other family members and friends. Memorial Service will be held Wednesday, Dec. 30, 2015, 1:00pm at Faith Baptist Church. 64 Chapel Hill Rd., Wetumpka, Al. by Pastor Gerald Wood

in a self-defense class. The class would consist of situational awareness, prevention, recognition of criminal behavior and some physical defense. Cost would be $55. Call 334-283-4726. Eclectic Girls Club Meeting When: Jan. 13, 10:30 a.m. Where: Kountry Kitchen, Eclectic Details: All are invited. Make friends, meet old acquaintances, enjoy fun, food and fellowship. Lunch is $10. Call Penny Holley at 334-306-0929 for more information. The Black Jacket Symphony Presents “Journey - ESC4P3” When: Jan. 15, 8 p.m. Where: Montgomery Performing Arts Centre Details: Tickets start at $25. Purchase them at ticketmaster.com Tim Tebow “The Journey Continues...” When: Jan. 16, 7 p.m. Where: Montgomery Performing Arts Centre Details: Tickets start at $60. Purchase them at ticketmaster. com. Proceeds benefit the Cancer Wellness Foundation of Central Alabama. Taste of Elmore County When: Jan. 25, 6-8 p.m. Where: Wetumpka Civic Center Details: Tickets are $25 each and will benefit the Elmore County Food Pantry. Purchase tickets at the food pantry. McCraney-Cottle Arts Council presents “Alice in Wonderland” When: Jan. 16, 7 p.m. Where: Tallassee High School Auditorium Details: A Missoula Children’s Theatre production offers attendees on a whimsically madcap, fun-filled fantasy. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students. Call Mona Mills at 334-201-4892 for more information. MLK Celebration When: Jan. 17, 3 p.m. Where: Wetumpka Civic Center Details: Various pastors of area churches and other leaders will be on hand to speak during this MLK celebration. 21st Annual MLK March When: Jan. 18, 10:30 a.m. Where: March will start at Rogers Chapel AME Zion Church at 209

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Sheriff ’s Reports

Area Calendar Where: Downtown Wetumpka Details: The evening’s activities will open with a POW/MIA observance and torch ceremony at 9 p.m. on the grounds of the Old Elmore County Courthouse. Other activities, ,including a DJ and concessions will begin at 9:30 p.m. in the lower parking lot behind the Wetumpka administrative building. The asteroid fall will be at midnight, followed by a fireworks grand finale. Attendees are welcome to bring tents, tables, chairs, blankets, fire pits, etc. This is a family event. Free.

THE WETUMPKA HERALD

W. Bridge St. Details: The march will continue from the church across the Bibb Graves Bridge.

Sports & Outdoors

2016 Candidate Fair When: Jan. 18, 6-8 p.m. Where: Wetumpka Civic Center Details: Get a chance to meet the area candidates running in the March 1 primary.

Christmas Eve Ugliest Sweater Run When: Dec. 24, 8 a.m. Where: Fleet Feet Sports, Montgomery Details: Join us for this FREE event and wear your ugliest Christmas outfit for a chance to win a FREE pair of limited edition Saucony shoes. There will be pancakes and refreshments afterward.

Live in Concert: Boyz II Men When: Jan. 23, 8 p.m. Where: Wind Creek Entertainment Center, Wetumpka Details: The four-time Grammy Award winning group will perform for the first time in Wetumpka. In addition to four Grammys, the group won nine American Music Awards and nine Sould Train Awards. Tickets are available on Ticketmaster.com Prattville Mardi Gras Celebration and Parade When: Jan. 23, 11 a.m. Where: Downtown Prattville Details: The celebration starts at 11 a.m. followed by the parade at 2 p.m. Taste of Elmore County When: Jan. 25, 6-8 p.m. Where: Wetumpka Civic Center Details: Tickets are $25 each and will benefit the Elmore County Food Pantry. Purchase tickets at the food pantry. Millbrook Revelers Mardi Gras Festival and Parade When: Jan. 30, 9 a.m. Where: Village Green, downtown Millbrook Details: Festival grounds with various rides for children and vendors will open at 9 a.m. The parade will begin at noon. Kathleen Madigan - The Mermaid Lady Tour When: Feb. 6, 7:30 p.m. Where: Montgomery Performing Arts Centre Details: Tickets start at $17. Purchase them at ticketmaster. com. Wetumpka Area Chamber of Commerce Membership Dinner When: Feb. 9, 5:30 p.m. Where: Wetumpka Civic Center Details: Annual meeting and reception Roaring 20s style. Call 334567-4811 for more information.

Wetumpka High School Football Banquet When: Jan. 7, 6:30 p.m. Where: Wetumpka High School Details: Tickets are $10 each. Tickets for the football players are paid for by the Wetumpka Quarterback Club. Slapout Strikeout 5K Walk/Run and Kids 1 mile Home Plate Dash When: Jan. 16 Where: Holtville High School Details: Registration is $25 per person for 5K runners; Registration is 10 and Under Home Plate Dash runners is $15. Proceeds benefit the Holtville High Softball Team.

Government Elmore County Commission Meeting When: Jan. 11, 5 p.m. Where: Old Elmore County Courthouse Details: A work session will begin at 5 p.m. followed by the regular meeting. Tallassee City Council Meeting When: Jan. 11, 6 to 7:30 p.m. Where: Tallassee City Hall Elmore County BOE Meeting When: Jan. 19, 4:30 p.m. Where: Elmore County Board of Education board room, 100 H.H. Robison Drive, Wetumpka Details: Anyone wishing to be placed on the regular board meeting agenda must make an official request to the superintendent’s office before 4 p.m.

Seniors

Street for those 55 and older: Regularly Scheduled Activities Monday-Friday - Lunch, 11:30 a.m. Cost is $1.60 donation if possible. SilverSneakers Classic Exercise Class - M, W, F at 9:30 a.m. - total body toning and muscular strength SilverSneakers Circuit Exercise Class - Tuesdays at 9:30 a.m. - cardio workout SilverSneakers Yoga Class Thursdays at 9:30 a.m. - deep breathing, stretching, muscle relaxation Bridge Club - Wednesdays, 12 to 3 p.m. Audio Book Club- second and fourth Monday of every month at 1 p.m. - enjoy listening to a book on tape while knitting, crocheting, sewing, etc. New Regularly Scheduled Activities DIY Classes - Every first and third Monday at 1 p.m. Do It Yourself Classes to learn to make things you can use around the house, including soap, lotions, crafts and decorations. Uno Wednesdays - 1 p.m. every Wednesday take part in a rousing game or two of Uno. Sock Sisters - 1 p.m. every Thursday come and make nonslip socks to give to nursing home residents. Volleyball - Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m. Join us for an intense game of volleyball, using a beach ball! Bridge - Wanted: Bridge players for afternoon Bridge Club. Meets Wednesday afternoons 12 to 3 p.m. Special Activities • Feb. 1-5, 2016: Motorcoach trip to Amelia Island, St. Augustine, and Jacksonville, Florida - Cost is $410 per person for double occupancy. Price includes four nights lodging and eight meals. For more information, or for a trip flyer, please call DeLane at 334-5671335. NOTE: For info on any Prime Time event, call 334-567-1335.

The Eclectic Senior Center is open every weekday until noon. For more info, call Deborah Rowe at 334-541-3581.

“Prime Time” activities at the Wetumpka Senior Center, held at the Fain Center, 120 Cotton

Dec. 20 Reports filed by officers of the Elmore County Sheriff’s De• Domestic violence (harassment) on 100 block of Noah’s partment Dec. 14-20. Road in Wetumpka. • Domestic violence (harassment) on 2700 block of Dec. 14 Williams Road in Wetumpka. • Domestic violence (harassment) on 200 block of Renee Way in Elmore. • Criminal mischief on 2400 block of Grays Ferry Road in Arrests made by officers of the Elmore County Titus. Sheriff’s Department Dec. 14-21. • Identity theft on 1700 block Lindsey Road in Seaman. Dec. 15

• Menacing on 200 block of Edwards Cook Road in Holtville. • Harassing communications on 100 block of Cathy Lane in Deatsville. • Burglary and theft of property on 2200 block of Buyck Road in Titus where three TVs valued at $2,630, a shotgun valued at $200, a video game console valued at $200 and $35 in cash were reported stolen. • Criminal trespass and criminal mischief on 13900 block of U.S. Highway 231 in Wallsboro. • Theft of property on 8400 block of Holtville Road in Holtville where Christmas decorations, a power outlet and an extension cord valued at $60 were reported stolen.

Dec. 14

• A Wetumpka man, 26, was arrested and charged with breaking and entering of a motor vehicle and theft of property. • A Millbrook man, 32, was arrested on a probation violation. • A Millbrook man, 25, was arrested on a probation violation.

Dec. 18

• A Coosada man, 30, was arrested on failure to appear warrants for possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia and domestic violence. • A Montgomery man, 18, was arrested and charged with obstructing governmental operations.

Dec. 16

• Menacing on 900 block of New Quarters Road in Tallassee. • Resisting arrest on 3300 block of New Harmony Road in Deatsville.

Dec. 17

• Domestic violence (harassment) on 1800 block of Ingram Road in Elmore. • Criminal mischief and theft of property on 600 block of Lake Eagle Nest in Wetumpka where a motor vehicle part valued at $438 was reported stolen. • Harassing communications on 100 block of Squaw Ridge Road on Lake Martin.

Dec. 18

• Domestic violence (criminal mischief) on 100 block of Planters Road in Wetumpka. • Criminal mischief on 800 block of Ceasarville Road in Elmore. • Domestic incident on North Turkey Pond Lane in Wetumpka. • Criminal mischief on 300 block of Shady Nook Drive in Holtville. • Criminal trespassing on Mountain Terrace Lane in Wetumpka.

Dec. 19

• Domestic violence (harassment) on 1100 block of Gossum Switch Road in Crenshaw. • Domestic violence (harassment) on 600 block of Lake Eagle Nest Drive in Wetumpka. • Theft of property on 11300 block of Central Plank Road in Eclectic where a metal water can valued at $10 was reported stolen. • Criminal mischief on Cleveland Drive in Wetumpka.

Dec. 19

• A Deatsville woman, 32, was arrested on a failure to appear warrant for negotiating a worthless instrument. • A Wetumpka man, 41, was arrested on a failure to appear warrant for resisting arrest and charged with illegal possession of prescription medication. • A Prattville woman, 45, was arrested on a failure to appear warrant for domestic violence (harassment). • A Wetumpka woman, 42, was arrested and charged with disorderly conduct. • A Clanton man, 23, was arrested and charged with breaking and entering of a motor vehicle, theft of property and fraudulent use of a credit card.

DECEMBER 23, 2015 • Page B3

Wetumpka police, churches, businesses spread cheer this season

By KEVIN TAYLOR The Wetumpka Herald

At least 500 people from Wetumpka and surrounding communities came to the Wetumpka Civic Center Sunday to accept more than 300 gifts for children of less fortunate families to help them enjoy the holiday season. In addition to the gifts given, those attending were treated to a holiday dinner. “There were so many who donated their time and money to help these families enjoy Christmas,” Wetumpka Mayor Jerry Willis said. “We had families not just from Wetumpka attend but those from Millbrook, the Friendship community and other surrounding communities.

“It really was just wonderful, and to the children it was a big deal.” Wetumpka Police Chief Danny Billinglsey said the attendance was much larger than expected. “At my last count we gave presents to 308 children and there had to have been 200-plus families there Sunday afternoon,” Billingsley. The gifts, food and facilities were all donated from various groups, churches, businvesses and individuals, Billingsley said. “I would like to thank all of those who did donate of themselves whether it be presents, money, food or just time to make this Christmas party such a wonderful event,” Billingsley added.

Dec. 20

• A Wetumpka man, 51, was arrested and charged with DUI and possession of marijuana. • A Wetumpka man, 54, was arrested on a failure to appear warrant for possession of marijuana. • A Montgomery man, 49, was arrested and charged with domestic violence (harassment). • A Wetumpka man, 23, was arrested and charged with domestic violence (harassment). • A Montgomery man, 31, was arrested on a probation violation.

Dec. 21

• A Montgomery man, 37, was arrested on a failure to appear warrant for possession of marijuana. • A Montgomery woman, 22, was arrested on a failure to appear warrant for operating a vehicle without insurance. • A Tuskegee man, 46, was arrested and charged with theft of property.

Photo montage by Kenneth Boone.

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DEAR SANTA

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Page 2 • DECEMBER 23-24, 2015

Eclectic Elementary Dear Santa I would like to have a tablet and some Elsa head fones and I would like lots more things for Chrismas this year. Marry Chrismas Rhianna Dear Santa I would like a crosbow and a rip stick drawing stuf. Abe Dear Santa, I would like some legos action figurs. And some gift cards and some pj. Love Caleb Dear Santa, I wunt mot kentrol car Love Logan Deer Santa, I want a X box and a fourwheeler and a guitar and a beaby gun with a skope. Justin Dear Santa, I wunt a Now all American Girl Doll, bike, Auburn fotboll signed biy #1. I wunt a four wheeler. Love, Alor Cummings Dear Santa, I have been good this year so could you get me an American girl doll Grace. Some thing else I would like is an iPad. two more things is a laptop. One more thing is graces kitchen. Love, Lily Merry Christmas Dear Santa, I have been good this year. All of my friends have too! I would like to have a bed for my American Girl Doll and her puppy, Spot if that is all right. Also, I would like to have a camper, that is white with two bunk beds please. Thank you for your time. Please tell your elves I said Hi! Your Beliver,

Sophie Merry Christmas Dear Santa, I have been good this year so I want a iPod touch. Or 2 tickets to an Auburn game. I hope you have a good year. Love, Ben Dear Santa, I hope I’ve been good so I would like a Esay bake oven, Oltement oven, IPad mine, and a video drone. I would really like to drone to be pink but it’s ok I Gussie. Love, Gracie Ann Dear Santa, I have been good and whet I want four Chrismas is a 150 cc Dirt Bike. Love, Seth Dear Santa, I hope you visit my house Because I’ve been good This Year. for Christmas I want a I pod touch 4 and clothes. That is all I want for Christmas. Love, Tianna Dear Santa, I hope you have a good year this year. I wote a iPad and a fitbit. Cloths and socks. Dog toys for my dog and my elf freedy is a big mass he got in the ceral and got on my ruin deer and got on the chistmas tree and got on my bed and red a book and his feet was proped on a pillow. and he got on the top of the light in my house. I hope you bring my present this year. Love Ellie Dear Santa, I want a “i” pad and a snowy day, “i” phone, a class elf, a dog and I hope you have a good year. Love, Brandon Dear Santa, I want some new Superman football gloves, and I woke football visor. I love you Santa. from Jackson

Elmore County Superintendent, Dr. Andre Harrison Have a Safe & Fun Holiday!

THE WETUMPKA HERALD & THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER

Dear Santa, I am looking forward to you coming at Christmas. I have ben good this year. I would like a tablet, halo 5, dirt bike, 3ds, Minecraft story mode, legend of Zelda triforce heros, rock band 4, gatar hero, thank you for my 2 elves spending desenber with me. Coleman

Dear Santa I have been a good kid this year. I have listed to my parents and my teacher. I have made lots of friends. I am always kind to them. I want to wish you a merry chrismas. What I want for chrismas is a bike furreal freind a bored game tea set and pray for my family sencearely kelis

Dear Santa, I have been Good this year so I want a iPhone 7 and a Not a high flying jet and parachute and legos and a real robot and a super boy toy. Love Tyler #21

Dear Santa, I been a good Boy this so. I would like a College Basketball game, a WWE game and a lot of car for me. Merry Christmas Santa sincerely Jacobie

Dear Santa, I have been good so, can I have a tablet, because the last one broke. Can I have a PS4 to and a minecraft disc with it please. Love, jazzy Dear Santa, I have been canda of a good boy can I have some army clothes, Boots, army toys, Hamster. thank you. Love Patrick Dear Santa, I have been good this year. Me and my sister have been wanting an elf pet for elfie. Three things I have been wanting they are an iPod my two front teeth and an owl pillow. Sincerly, Natilee Dear Santa, I have been a good kid this year and this is what I wan’t for Christmas. Kindle, tadlet and a case for my tadlet and my Kindle. Love Caden Dear Santa I would like some $2000, legos, iPod and a phone. I hope you can give me all of that. Love, Xander Dear Saint Nick, I have been a OK boy this year. I have listen to my parents and teachers this year. I’ve made more friends than last year! And always be kind to them. I hope you have a merry christmas! I would like a dart board, glow-in-the-dark base ball, slippers for Christmas. Sincerely John Phillips Dear Santa, I would like a bike, basketball, some vidieo games, camo Bible, tablet, wii u a thats not all I want a new phone and that’s all I want for Christmas. From Logan

Dear Santa, I have been a good kid this year. I have listen to my parents and my teachers. I have made lots of friends and I am always kind to others. Hope you have a great Christmas! Love, Emma I have been a good kid this year. I have listend to my parents and my teachers. I have made 3 new friends this year. I want to wish you a Merry Christmas. I would like. Sting, Johnmend, Evamirai, the aluchoa dragons, golddust, Nataly, mark Henry,Summerslam Rey-Mystrio. Love, Micah Holtville Elementary Dear Santa what I want for Christmas is for people to have a good Christmas and money. So kids can have a great Christmas. Thank you, Christian Dear Santa First , I would like you to give homeless people a blessing for Christmas. My brother would like a tablet for Christmas. Can you get me blue beats for Christmas? I would like a lipstick kit and a nail polish kit. Also, I would like a mannequin head. Love jasmine Dear Santa, for Christmas I want to get my whole class new stuff. Can you please get me a tablet, for Christmas. I also want American girl doll, puppy. Also I want you get my brothers an Xbox with games. Can you get my sister new games for the Wii, jewelry,

334-567-8444

flip-flops, I want new church clothes, pink boots, highheels, heelies, tennis shoes, go kart, I want you to give some of this to orphans. I love you Santa thankyou for all the stuff you gave me over the years. Love, Kaila Dear Santa, this Christmas I want for every orphan to find a new home. I want everyone to have their family together. I want my stepdad to get the green tractor he wanted and my mom to get enough money to go to the spa. I want everyone who is sick or hurt to feel better or heal. I want everyone to sleep good when you come on Christmas eve. Love, Melanie Dear Santa, for Cristmas I want the sick to be better. Then the homeless to get homes and cars. Then I want PS4 with destiny The taken king. I also want 3 d.s.xl. And PS4 other games Mortal Kombat II. and also call of duty III. Brysen Dear Santa, I want an Xbox one. My brother wants on ps4 for Christmas. My other brother would like a new dog. Love, Alex Dear Santa, can everyone have a great Christmas I’m sure they want a really good Christmas and can I please have iPhone 6 plus, a flatbill hat, a football, clothes, shoes, pokemon cards, markers, crayons, and a basketball. Love, Alexa Dear Santa, I want some games for my playstation 4. A hat for my brother and something nice for my sister and mom and dad. Love, LaDarrion Dear Santa, I would like you to get Kaila a tablet. I would like you to get Mrs. McCants a laptop, supplies and copy paper. I would like you to get the orphin’s stuff. I would like a tablet. I would like you to get homeless people cars and stuffs they need. Audra Dear Santa, first what I want to tell you is please get

homeless people something like a house, maybe a car. And this is what I want a fish tank, a drumset, and a bike. Love, Kaden Dear Santa, my cousin Keyah would like a violon for Christmas and my cousin Dro Dro would like a toy car for Christmas. I would like you to bring gifts that my friends like. Love, Dallas Dear Santa, Christmas is a time for all of us to have fun together, and it is also called “Hanukkah”. I listed what I want for Christmas. What I want is a rubber alligator, a plastic black horse, a rubber tyranusaurus rex, a wooden flexible cobra, a different kinds of birds pack, a rubber red dragon, and a rubber Horn Lizard. For your information I have not been naughty. Love, Alexandria Dear Santa, I would like an elf for Christmas. I’ll name her Christy. I also want a gun, so I can go hunting with my daddy. I would make up set, a new Fur real friend. Would you bless my grandfathers daddy to try and get better. I would like a waterbottle and a guitar. I want everyone to have a Merry Christmas! Love, Hannah Dear Santa, I would like an IPad and some cothles. But you don’t have to give it all to me. Other people need it to for Christmas. I have some more things I want for Christmas I would like a gokart and some boots but I know I don’t need it all. Love, Ragen Dear Santa, I need a new PS3 for the family. My lego superhero game I will like some new clothes. That is all I for Christmas. I want my family to have a great Christmas. Love, Hunter Dear Santa, for Christmas I want a Treasure truck. and I want a Xbox 360 games. and new shows. and new chapter books. and a shirt. and I want a basketbal. and army man. and a big IPod. Mark

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DECEMBER 23-24, 2015 • Page 3 year. For Christmas I would like to get a Sky walker , iPhone 7, boots, Dork Diaries Book, piano, tablet, swingset, above ground pool 8 feet tall 6 feet wide, New shirt, New pants, jewelry, a heart pillow, white jacket. I hope you have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Love, Lily Grace

Dear Santa, for Christmas I want a Treasure truck. and I want a Xbox 360 games. and new shows. and new chapter books. and a shirt. and I want a basketbal. and army man. and a big IPod. Mark Dear Santa, I would like to have a wonderful Christmas. My sister would like to have an iPod. I would love to have a whole bunch of clothes to donate to people who need them the most. Kaila would want a special Christmas. Ragen, Jasmine, Hannah, and me. I bet all wall a wonderful and great Christmas. My mom, dad, sisters, brothers and me all want to spend time together on Christmas Eve and Christmas day. I want a gocart. Thank you for everything over the years. Anna Dear Santa, I want My little pony stuffed animaland a tablet and a beaniebabby. Thank you. Love Austyn Dear Santa, I want is make up, 2 stuff puppies, and a dress. Thank you Santa, Ho Ho Ho! Love, Courtney Dear Santa, For Christmas I would like a gymnastic swing bar. I would also like a pair of night slippers and a new phone case if it is possible. Thank you. Love, Victoria Dear Santa, I would like some toys and some movies and clothes. Thanks. Love, Bridgette Dear Santa, I want a playstation 3 controller. A Nerf gun, and a toy monster. Also, a truck, iPad, and a Drumset (red). I’ve been a good boy. If you can get it if you can’t it’s fine. Thank you Santa. Love, Cedrick Dear Santa, What I want for Chrismas is a Elf on the shelf, and I want a playstation and I want a dog. Love, Nicole Dear Santa, What I want for Christmas! I would like a Bluetooth Hoverboard, trampoline and a bycicle. Love, Addyson Dear Santa, I want the Biney Boos and, I want some crafts, and Christmas books. I have been good this year. My elf has done funny stuff like walking my animals. I am making cookies for you. I hope you like them. I’m making milk for you Santa. Thank you for the toys. Thank you Santa. Love, Karlee Jo Dear Santa,

Dear Santa, I have been good this year I would like Call of Duty ghost. I would like Halo reach. I would like a rainbow loom. I would like a GTA five. I hope you have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Love, Evan Dear Santa, I have been good this year for crismas this year I would like an Xdox 360 and a playstation 3 and 4 and I want a 5 and 4 and a cal of duty 3 and 4 and a dirt dake. I want an elf for crismas to. I beleav. Love, DJ I would like a PS4, Driving mocs and Family Fued board game. Thank you santa. I will love this stuff for Christmas. Love, Karson Dear Santa, I want a Tablet. I want a blanket, and I want a drum set. Love, TJ Dear Santa, Want an I-pod, a stuffed owl, and I want a Friendship braclet and necklace. Love, Emalee Dear Santa, I would like a iPod touch, 2K16, and a shooting game. Thank you Santa if I’m on the nice list I hope you give me all of this. Thank you. Love, Jace Dear Santa, I want remote control car, Star Wars figure, and a book please Santa. Thank you. Love, Beau Dear Santa, For Chritmas I want a two wheel bike, $1,000,000 and a new hair brush. Thank you Santa for the Christmas presents and most of all love. Love, Tempe Dear Santa, This year I would like golf clubs, Rainbow Sic Siege, and Just Cause Three. I’ve been a good boy this year and a good student. Love, Turner Dear Santa, I would like a playdoh set. a school set, and an art set. Love, Lindsey Dear Santa, I have been good this year. Can I have a Laptop and some Pokémon cards, 4 36 Booster packs, and a BNX bike with helmet and some football stuff, please? Love, Hank

Dear Santa, I want new shoes with straps not strings, a Yellow bike with pegs, Nike clothes. Santa thank you very much. Santa please don’t miss my house. My address is Broadveiw Street. Love, Justin Dear Santa, I have been very good this year I would like to get a movie of Jurrassic World, Spinocaurus tooth, Football signed by Derek Henry, Doom Buggie, Diary. I hope you have a Merry Christmas and a happy new year. Love, Gavin Dear Santa, I have been a good girl this year for christmas I would like to get a elf. I hope you have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New year. Shaylah Dear Santa, I have been good this year. Casey Dear Santa, I have been very good this year. For Christmas I would like to get a compound bow, Xbox 360. I hope you have a Merry Christmas and a happy New Year. Love, Tyler Dear Santa, I have been very good this year for Christmas. I would like a compoundbow, a computer, a piano, a canvases to paint on. I hope you have a Marry Christmas. And a happy new year. Love, Bethanee Dear Santa, I have been trying to do my best for christmas. I want this to be the best christmas. I want nascar and I want a football signed by Dee Millener. And

Merry Christmas! DRUG

use is life abuse. Don’t start- Be Smart. Your Friend,

Bill Franklin

Sheriff of Elmore County Pd. Pol Adv. By Bill Franklin 8955 US Hwy 231, Wetumpka, AL 36092

I want a play football and I want Madden 16 and I want all of my games for Xbox 360. I really want NCAA 14. And I won’t Call of Duty III. Love, Keiland

and horse. I would also like a owl necklace, and a puppy necklace. I would also like a clever keet. I hope you have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New year! Love, Carla

Dear Santa, I have been good this year. Can I have Xbox one call of duty 3 & 4 and PS4 with fallout 4 and a call of duty costume. Love Zachary

Dear Santa, I have been good this year. For Christmas this year I would like a tablet, Beats, DS, Pokémon white, Mario kart 7, Lego Batman, and yoka, Halo, camping suply, grabling hock, and sky walker healment and Star Wars life saver. I hope you have a Merry Christmas and a happy new year. Chrystian

Dear Santa, I have been very good this year. For Christmas I would like to get 1.Skywalker, 2.shopkins collection, 3.A+ in Mrs. Acre’s classroom, 4.An A+ in Miss Randolph’s classroom, 5.New shirts 6.New dresses, 7. highe hills 8. some books, 9. court to go away, 10. and Santa I really badly wish my daddy can come back for Christmas. 11.Pants 12. shorts, 13 .some new American girl doll clothes, 14. last but not least an iPhone 6 Plus! I hope you have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Love, Ella Dear Santa, I’ve been very good this year. I want a tablet and a Baby doll. And I want to have a Merry Christmas and a happy new year. Love summer Dear Santa, I have been very good this year for Chirstmas. I would like to get a Auburn iPhone 5 phone case. I would also like a Xbox and games. And cat toys And a good dog. I hope you have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Love Bella Dear Santa, I have been very good this year. For Christmas this year I would like a ring for my mom. I would aslo like a puppy, goat,

Dear Santa, I have been very good this year. For Christmas I would like a tablet a stuffed ainamal and a big fat 100 A+ on my reading test. I hope you have a Mary Christmas and a happy new year. Love Tyson Dear Santa, I have been very good this year. For Christmas I would like to get, a tablet with Wi-Fi, and a boll Stroller and a bike. I hope you have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Love,Kayla

Dear Santa, I have been very good this year. For Christmas this year I want Rainbow Loom. I will also like the newest Pokémon cards and a sketch book and Call Duty 3 and paints and an easel, and some canvas and ken doll clothes and a new Ryan doll Love, Allyssa

Dear Santa, I have been very good this year. For Christmas this year I would like a Xbox 360 and the game Call of Duty Ghosts, and Black Ops. Basketball Goal, Pool, iPhone, 100$, New Trampoline, baby Pig in a Pen for it, Rabbit and a pen for it, and food for both of them. Love, Colt

Dear Santa, I have been very good this year. For Christmas I would like to get a sled, DS3, bike, Xbox 360 and toothless for Christmas other stuff from you. I hope you have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Love, Connor

Dear Santa, I have been very good this year. For Christmas I would like a real puppy, Feist squirrldog. I would also like a art set. I would also like a 12 set of lead pencils. And a iPad. I would also like a stuffed gaint bear. Last butt not least a thousand dollars. I hope you have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Love, Avery

Dear Santa, I have been very good this

M & Ha

ppy New Year!

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THE WETUMPKA HERALD & THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER a bike in a new pair of shoes. Thank you! Sincerely, Larissa

Dear Santa, I have been very good this year. For Christmas I would like a Tablet. And I would want a knew phone, and a cat, and the monster high dolls Jackson, holt, and clawd. The last thing I wannt is a monster High High school. Love, Tristany

Dear Santa, How are Mrs. Claus and the reindeer? For Christmas this year I would like a PS4 and PS4 games. For my sister could you bring her a frozen doll. She has been a good girl this year. There will be cookies waiting for you and carrots for the reindeer. Love, Gunnav

Dear Santa, I have been very good this year. For Christmas I would like to get... 1. A new phone case. 2. A real puppy. 3. A real horse. I hope you have a Merry Chistmas and a Happ New year. Love, Brooklyn

Dear Santa, Is everybody OK? I heard there was a snow storm at the north pole. For Christmas this year I would like a puppy and a big Barbie house. Please bring my mom a new Christmas dress. There will be cookies waiting for you and reindeer food for the reindeer. Love, Ana

Dear Santa, I have been very good this year and I want a elf for Christmas and a bike, and hair extensions, and a guitar, and a easy bake oven. A glitter iPhone. Then I want a vacuum set, and a glitter purse, and a loom machine, and a xbox pencil sharpener. I hope you have a Merry Christmas. Love, Madlyne

Dear Santa, My Elf is funny. Today he hid in a water bottle! Treat him with care. For Christmas I want a go-kart and rollerskates. But my sister could you bring a novel. There will be cookies for you. Love Kennedy

Dear Santa, I have been very good this year. For Christmas this year I would like a Pokémon cards, iPad, iPhone, Yoki watch and Rainbowloom. I hope you have a Merry Christmas and a happy new year. Love, Ty

Dear Santa, my elf is real funny. She hid in the cabinet. She brought cups for us. Can you believe that it is 21 more days until Christmas. How is Mrs. Claus in the reindeer? I would like you to bring a 4 wheeler and a backpack. Will you bring Walker a toy BB gun. There will be cookies for you and your reindeer will have reindeer food. Love Ellie

Dear Santa, I have been good this year. For Christmas this year I would like to get a computer and I would like an iPad, and a vacum cleaner, and a desk and desk chair. I hope you have a Merry Christmas and a happy new year! Love, Travis Dear Santa, I have been very good this year. For Christmas this year I would like a treasure truck. I would also like a rainbow loom. I would like hair extensions. And I would like a fourwheeler. And I would like owl stuff such as as owl clothes, jackets. I hope you have a Merry Christmas and a happy new year! Love, Aubrey Dear Santa, I would like a new playhouse. I would like Laptop apple with a seagreen case. I would like Miss. Davis to get new earrings. Sincerely, Kaliy Dear Santa, Will you get Colton Mann a baby turtle. Also get Colton a shovel. And get Colton a droid for Christmas. Sincerely Elijah Dear Santa, I want to get Beth Hedley a bake. I want a green scooter. I want kinds of clothes. I want some Yummy Nummy’s. I want a Pakisn. Sincerely Jordan Dear Santa, Can you get my dog a new toy for Christmas? I also want a lego set for Chistmas. And I want a ps vita the most for Christmas. Sincerely Jon Dear Santa, I want you giv me present thank you. I can get you mlik and cookies I wealy want give magic wond Im was good prtty happy New your I’m glad you’re coming to aunt Maire. Don’t

Dear Santa, My elf has been very good. Can you send back a letter that tells me why he won’t leave the living room? I would like a i-pad mini. Have a safe trip! There will be cookies and milk for you on the fireplace. Love, Trent

com in Bathroom give my mom a present. yarn for clothes I love you so much I love you’r wite berd. Sincerely Stella Dear Santa, I would like for my brother to get a Xbox because he said he wants a Xbox one really bad. I would like a black pear of boots or maybe a red pear of boots. And last a necklease for my mommy. Last invoice for my sisters. sincerely Abigail Dear Santa, Hello! I’m so ready for Christmas! Is Turt OK? For the first thing I want is the bomb game. The second thing I want is a CD player. For the last thing I want is a bunch of highlighters! I really hope you can get me this stuff. Why did turt go to Scotland. Sincerely Kaiden Dear Santa, I would like Mrs. Davis to have a rock star instrument. And I would like a red and blue DS. And I would like an iPhone 5!

Sincerely Jerry Dear Santa, I love candy canes. I sat in your lap. I would like a bike. I will ride it in my backyard. Please bring my sisters a gift too. Thank you so much. I love you Santa. Sincerely Olivia Dear Santa, I want you to give Abby a baby doll a big one. I want an Elf on the shelf. I want to tablet. sincerely, Jayla Dear Santa, I want Call of duty Black Ops III and I want you to give Jen a PlayStation and I want you to give Nathen an Xbox One. Sincerely Brody Dear Santa, this is what I want for Christmas. 1. Shopkins 2.A present for Miss Davis 3. Disney infinity 3.0 Star Wars characters Sincerely Lily

The

Gab Ŷ

Paula Sargent – Owner

Dear Santa, I would like Star Wars Battlefront. I would also like a PlayStation 4. I would like Turt to come back for the class. Sincerely Daniel Dear Santa, I want you to get Nathan Beverly a dirtbike. I want you to get Miss Davis 1,000 boxes of chocolate. I want a pink bike. I want a Hover Board. I want a pet dog named bella. Thank you Santa Claus I love you. Sincerely, Amber Dear Santa, Will you check on Elfie my cuddle elf? Will you tell him I’m o.k.? Can you get Chairity a new tablet and tell her it’s from Colton Mann? Will you make many replica of a turtle for my Mom? Sincerely Colton Dear Santa, Will you do me a favor Elijah Headley blocked me from getting hit by a ball a PE. Please give him a new pool for Christmas. Will you get me

Dear Santa, My Elf was silly and good. Nick was traped in my Elsa castle. Chett hid in our basket of blankets. Have you met Hicup yet? Hicup is stufft elf. I would like to get Britt a sign that saids Keep Out Please and it be Alabama. For my sister Korbin I want to get her a rainbow loom. I would like a iPod case that saids AML and a tall eletric scooter. There will be oatmeal for the reindeer and extra cookies some for you and miss Clase. Love,Ann Marie

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Dear Santa, how are the elves? Hope they’re making toys quick! It’s almost Christmas. For Christmas this year I would like and octo core computer and cell phone. For my brother could you bring an octo core computer too. There will be some cookies and milk for you and carrots for Rudolph, Vixen,Comet, Cupid, Blitzen, Dasher, Dancer, Prancer and Donner. Love, Braxton

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Dear Santa, my elf Harley is going crazy. He is sitting on harmful things. Also I would like a 3DS and a bunch of games for it. For my cousin Cameron could you bring another elf for him. I can’t wait until you come. Love Ethan

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DECEMBER 23-24, 2015 • Page 5 How are Mrs. Claus and the reindeer? For Christmas I want a four wheeler in the Play house. I will have a surprise waiting on you. Have a safe trip. Love, Braden

Dear Santa, for Christmas this year I would like a jetpack that goes slow in a parashot that goes with the jet pack. For my sister could you get her a Barbie doll set she has been very good this year. There will be milk waiting for you and trixy, comet, and Roudolph. Love, Preston

Dear Santa, how are Mrs. Claus and the reindeer? I can’t wait for your arrival this year. I would like a Miancraffted X-Box game and a lego Batman set. Bring something special for my family. I will put cookies for you and carrots for the reindeer. I’ve been good this year. Love to all, Clayton

Dear Santa, my elves are getting hard to find. My reindeer is not moving. My reindeer is named Christmas Wishes. My elf is named Charlie. Thanks for letting Charlie bring Carly. And I want a Zooomer, every thing, a Girl Scouts cookie oven and a MC square doll. Love, Cayden Dear Santa, how are Ms. Claus and the reindeer? For Christmas this year I would like a little puppy and a elf. Could you bring a little kitten in a monster truck for my brother? He has been very good! Love, Isabella Dear Santa, my elf brought a reindeer. Santa are you and the elves cold? Can you tell Dasher, Prancer, Comet and Rudolph I love them much? I really want a real deer and a iPhone. Santa can you give my mom a new dog? There are milk and cookies just for you. Oatmeal for your reindeer too. Love, Presley Dear Santa, you will not believe this but we lost our Elf! For Christmas I would like a Thomas the Train set and master viewer. For my sister could you bring

a pink blowdrier she has been really good. There will be cookies waiting for you. love,Eric Dear Santa, how are Mrs. Clause and the reindeer? I wish I could see you. I can’t wait for your arrival the year!!! For Christmas this year I would like a Xbox one and a guitar. For my dad could you bring a baseball signed by you and Ms. Clause. He has been a great dad. There will be cookies for you and carrots waiting for all the reindeer. Love, Tyler Dear Santa, How are Mrs. Claus and the reindeer? I can’t wait for your arrival this year! For

Christmas this year I would like a elf and a ginny pig. But my mama could you bring her a new car? There will be cookies waiting for you and sparkely oatmeal for the reindeer. Love, Billy

her a doll. She has been a very good kid. There will be cookies waiting for you and carrots for your reindeer. My reindeer name is Sky. My elf name is Anthony. They are waiting for you too! Love, Anthony

Dear Santa, how is Mrs. Claus and the reindeer? I can’t wait for Christmas! I would like cowgirl boots and my borther would like a mostertruck from you. He has been good. There will be cookies and apples for the reindeer. Love, Lanie

Dear Santa, How are Mrs. Claus and the reindeer? I can’t wait for your arrival this year! For Christmas this year I would like a tablet and a X-box games. For my mom could you bring a tent. She has been nice and good this year. There will be cookies and milk for you! Love, Zach

Dear Santa, For Christmas this year I would like a bike and a guitar. For my sister could you bring

Dear Santa, How are Ms. Claus and the

Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus

n Sept. 21, 1897, The New York Sun published what was to become the most widely read letter to a newspaper. It was sent by 8-year-old Virginia O’Hanlon, who lived with her parents in Manhattan. Below is the full text of that letter and the iconic reply by Sun editorial writer Francis Pharcellus Church. Dear Editor, I am 8 years old. Some of my little friends say there is no Santa Claus. Papa says, “If you see it in The Sun, it’s so.” Please tell me the truth, is there a Santa Claus? Virginia O’Hanlon Virginia, your little friends are wrong. They have been affected by the skepticism of a skeptical

age. They do not believe except they see. They think that nothing can be which is not comprehensible by their little minds. All minds, Virginia, whether they be men’s or children’s, are little. In this great universe of ours man is a mere insect, an ant, in his intellect, as compared with the boundless world about him, as measured by the intelligence capable of grasping the whole truth and knowledge. Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus. He exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist, and you know that they abound and give to your life its highest beauty and joy. Alas! How dreary would be the world if there were no Santa Claus! It would be as dreary as if there were no Virginias. There would

be no childlike faith then, no poetry, no romance to make tolerable this existence. We should have no enjoyment, except in sense and sight. The eternal light with which childhood fills the world would be extinguished. Not believe in Santa Claus! You might as well not believe in fairies! You might get your papa to hire men to watch in all the chimneys on Christmas Eve to catch Santa Claus, but even if they did not see Santa Claus coming down, what would that prove? Nobody sees Santa Claus, but that is no sign that there is no Santa Claus. The most real things in the world are those that neither children nor men can see. Did you ever see fairies dancing on the lawn? Of course not, but that’s no proof that they are not there. Nobody

can conceive or imagine all the wonders there are unseen and unseeable in the world. You tear apart the baby’s rattle and see what makes the noise inside, but there is a veil covering the unseen world which not the strongest man, nor even the united strength of all the strongest men that ever lived, could tear apart. Only faith, fancy, poetry, love, romance can push aside that curtain and view and picture the supernal beauty and glory beyond. Is it all real? Ah, Virginia, in all this world there is nothing else real and abiding. No Santa Claus! Thank God he lives and he lives forever. A thousand years from now, Virginia, nay 10 times 10 thousand years from now, he will continue to make glad the heart of childhood.

Merry Christmas! Singleton’s

reindeer’s? I can’t wait for your arrival this year. I would like a pink camo fourwheeler. For my sister could you bring a purple camo fourwheeler. She has been very good this year. There will be cookies and milk for you and carrots for the reindeer’s. Love, Kayden Dear Santa, How are you and Mrs. Claus? For Christmas I would like a Baby Alive doll and a Playdough kit. For my baby sister can you give her babytoys. My mom and I are are making cookies for you. For the reindeer there will be oatmeal. Love, Kaleigh Dear Santa,

Dear Santa, my mom is going to make you good cookies. There will be cookies for the reindeer too. I will set milk of you. This year I want a red flamed fourwheeler and a drone. My sister wants a red fourwheeler and make-up. She has been a good girl. Have a safe trip. Love, Tyler Dear Santa, how are Mrs. Claus and the reindeer? I can’t wait for your arrival this year. I would like to have a good Elf. For my sister please bring her a Barbie doll. There will be a gift for you and your reindeer! Drive safely! Love, Mya Dear Santa, my elf Fred has been hiding in funny places. I would like the American Girl Doll doctoring set. And I would like Sydney and Richie to get something special. I can’t wait till Christmas! I love Christmas! :) Love, Michelle

Merry Christmas FFrom our ffamilyl to your ffamily. l The h Humane Society t of Elmore County

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Dear Santa, How is it up there in the north pole? Christmas is coming up! For Christmas I would like just money and that’s all! The best gift of Christmas is the birth of Christ! Hope you have a nice Christmas! Love, Will Dear Santa, I can’t wait for your arrival this year. For Christmas this year I want to paint set, and dolls. For my brother Preston could you bring some Pokémon cards. He has been nice. I will draw picture for you and Mrs. Claus and the reindeer’s. Love,Isabella Dear Santa, How is your year? How is Mrs. Claus and the reindeer? My mom is making a cake

for you. There will be food for the reindeer. I don’t know an Ismo a American Bulldog. For my sister Chloe please bring a Snacking Sabra. She has been very good this year. My elf Snow Flake is funny! Love, Avery Dear Santa, my elf Oodle is waiting for you to come this year. He is on his best behavior. He’s going to watch us bake cookies. He is probably going to eat them all before you get here. For Christmas this year I would like a goffcart and a Christmas tree for people who can’t afford for one. There will be cookies for you and the reindeer. Love, Jaymee Dear Santa, I am making some good cookies for you and Ms. Claus. I would like

RANDALL HOUSTON DISTRICT ATTORNEY 19TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT

THE WETUMPKA HERALD & THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER

a iPod case and a veetecar. My brother won’t some PS3 games. Love, London Dear Santa, How is Mrs. Claus and you and the reindeer? Would you tell Marvin your elf to make a cake on Satatday. Would you make me an Alabama picture. And for dad a camow fourwheeler that is 4 x 4. From Titus Dear Santa, My elf Gingersnap got her snowflakes from last year and hung them up on purple string. She is so silly! For Christmas this year I would like an American girl doll kit and the American girl doll Grace. For my sister could you bring an iPad mini. A pink one. We are baking cookies and oatmeal you and reindeer. Love, Wilson Dear Santa, how are the reindeer? How is Mrs. Claus? I can’t wait for your arrival this year. I want a Lego set. I want a dog for the family. There will be cookies waiting for you and carrots for the reindeer. Love, Zachary Dear Santa, my elf Fred is a

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good hider! These are the top 3 things I want. Two American Girl Doll, glasses one pink one blue, and A.G.D. school set and A.G.D. bath set . My brother would like Star Wars Legos. My sister would like an A.G.D. doctor kit. I hope you have a safe flight! Your friend, Sydney Wetumpka Elementary Dear Santa, I like Santa and I like to spend time with my family. I wut a z@Be gun Thomas Dear Santa, You’re nice and you’re good and I want a baby sister, money. M. Coleman Dear Santa, what I whut for Christmas is a tablet a babby doll a bike a scooter a Santa toy Bing Bong Toy a Olaf Toy a candycane lots and lots and lots of candy. Addison Dear Santa, PlayStashun 3, unchrted 3, littil big planet 3 Weston Dear Santa, I want lots and lots and lots and lots and lots and lots and lots and lots and lots and lots

and lots and lots of candy. Jacob

zippy zack desk for Christmas Brianna

Dear Santa, I want a Nerf zombie gun not a real one and I am not on the naughty list I am on the nice list. Joseph

Dear father Christmas, PS4or Xbox one minecraft store, modernmincraft PS3, phone drug bike forwills and soopcm and a treehase for christmas Cason

Dear Santa, what I want for Christmas is a motorcycle. Taelyn Dear Santa, I want a got crow for chistmas in a dess in a forecast mess in a bick for chistmas. Antalaysha Dear Father Christmas. I want X-box 360, bike, Basketball shorts Basketball gaul for Christmas. Damarcus Dear father Christmas I want a Amaracan girl doll Mcinna. I want a bike for Christmas. Jessa Dear father Christmas I want a Xbox, Aily, tishoows for Christmas . Rebekah Dear father Christmas, I want a pone, four whellr, cotin candy maker, paint,

Dear Father Christmas I want a big toy idomidis Rex. A big toy t-Rex. A small toy vlosoraptor for Christmas. Bennett Dear Father Christmas, I want a Xbox 4. I want a box of craws. I want a ros chak. I want a box of cars for Christmas. Camden Dear father Christmas, I want Xaeboxl A oo hows owsid with shefs for Christmas. Clay Dear Father Christmas I want a merkidale. I want brbes. I want a merechisnis for Christmas. Jaycee Dear father Christmas, I want a Xbox 360. A feel cute cuter. I want a toy for my leep pad for csrismas. Hudson

DEAR SANTA

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THE WETUMPKA HERALD & THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER

DECEMBER 23-24, 2015 • Page 7 Dear Santa, I wuld like to have a bag of jellybeans and a stuft pig or candy. Elaine

Dear Father Christmas, I want a DS for Christmas. I want a stuffet anamal aburn tiger for Chrismas. Yuushi

Dear Santa, This is what I want for Christmas. I want to give every girl and boy something to eat and to wear. Love, Gracie

Dear Santa, This is all I want for Chismas. 1. A locket 2. A go cart 3. a puppy 4. a glowing pillow 5. a lather jacket 6 my own drem house 7. An Elf 8. a perse Alaysia

Dear Santa, I want a Xbox 360. I want a PlayStation 4. I want god of war 3 and gta. I want WWe 2K16. Chris

Dear Santa, I want a pepermint kiss for chresmis but I now that I can’t get everhing for chresmis so I op tat I can notice so I can get somthing for chrismis. Love, Anastasia

Dear Santa, I want to skate board, Xbox one, and a iPad. Banshe, gun, and dog. Quinton

Dear Santa, I want cow girl boots and a cowgirlefit and account girl hat and most of all I want to feed and cloth people and kid that can’t eat and don’t have clothes and I want a puppy and a kitten and a lot of candy. Love Jaicie

Dear Santa, I want a puppy, iPhone, Gokart key, money, books a lot of them, our generation caryer and an iPad. Lauren Dear Santa, I want a Amarciaen Girl doll and a mall doll an iPhone and a Lizze hearts doll and a tablet and I’m Madlien Hatter doll and some earphonse and apple white doll and a balla outfit and balla shoes. Summer

Dear Santa, What I want for Chirstmas is My life doll colth, a barbie, a barbie house, a my life doll house, a phone. Tania Dear Santa, What I want for Christmas is a elf, pie face, Choloate pen, oreebz pool, Olaf snow cone maker, oreebz crush, a big bowl of snackes, snackies, bike bookshelf. So that’s what I want for Christmas this year I hope you get it all for me! Zariah Dear Santa, I want a four wheeler, a drone, a Go pro and a doombuggy. Hunter Dear Santa, I want a Zoomer and a Zoomer kittey, cool baker maker dog. A LOT,

LOT of CANDY! Kari Dear Santa, I want a bebe gun and iPhone drone puppy tablet bike dirt bike computer bradblades. Kemarion Dear Santa, I want a remocintrole or R.C

caranda Auburnsine a aletrik toothbrush and a dog. Gabriel Dear Santa, I want a hutting rifel, hunting rifel ammo, a pistel, pistel ammo, a combat knife, a bow and arrows, Xbox live, YouTube account, a pupy for my brother, M16, M16 ammo, a tshirt that says dez nuts, camra

drone. Phillip Dear Santa, I want a shirt that says what are those. I want the game portal. I want the game battlefront. I want the game battlefield. I want to game cod III. Love, Matthew

Dear Santa, What I want for Christmas is a dog, go cart, toy geep and car, Gallexy, two elves, silly string, Amercia girl doll, monkey, pit treasure box, I do 3-D, orbize, my life doll with 2 suitcase, sunglasses, laptop or computer. Magic treehouse books, A gym for me to practice, elves to bring their pet, a book with a locket and not let me lose the key, cursive sheet, headphones that don’t hurt my head, trampilone, chese mat, a higher beam inside, wider floor, a high and low bar, watermelon, a water binder, snow, snowballs, and a box. Love, Alyssa

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DEAR SANTA

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Page 8 • DECEMBER 23-24, 2015

THE WETUMPKA HERALD & THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER

Celebrate the Miracle! As I watch the holiday season unfold, I recall the greatest story ever told; And join my friends in adulation Marked by joy and celebration As I honor our Savior’s birth, I send this prayer for peace on earth And pray that every one of you Receive His many blessings, too!

MERRY CHRISTMAS from RANDALL HOUSTON DISTRICT ATTORNEY • 19TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT

Merryy C M Christm Ch Christmas hristma Happy app pyy N New Y Year! a !

Dear Santa, What I want for Christmas is a hamster that is a girl. I want a American girl doll that is Grace Thomas. I want to iPad air 2. I want iPhone 6. I want to play house that has a porch. I want a Baby Alive with clothes and dipers. And that’s what I want for Christmas. Love, Taliah Dear Santa, I want a Blad blad and a Psp and a dog and a cat and the elf on the shelf in the dog house for my dog and a Christmas book and a new TV in the xbox 360 in mincraft and a phone with a Christmas cast. Omario Dear Santa, I want a video game name Fallout 3 or 4. Also a shirt that has a Zelda symbol on it. And the new Zelda watch that has the majors mask on it. Then a Zelda cap that has the symbol on it. Also the new Zelda Tri Force heros game. Love, Garrett

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Dear Santa, What I want is a Kindl and I want the game goat smilder her on the Kindel. I want some cool pocket knifes. I kept Money blive it or not! scram ride. On Xbox 306 fast and fives game on Xbox 360 or on Kindel. Minecraft pocket on Kindel. Love, Zack Dear Santa, I want a fourwheeler and a sky rover and a blad blad. Next I want a hunting stuf and I want a pet ginn pig. Bradley Dear Santa, All I want is some chicken and fries and I-pod and a dirtbike a little one that it my size and I want Omario to come to my house and I won’t me a lab. No name Dear Santa, I won’t ask for a lot but I want to goldfish a goldfish bowl and decorations for the inside of the bowl. I won’t $50, a jacket, a guitar, scooter, I want Oreoes and American girl grace. A Trampaleen only for me. I want to pet turtle, a tablet, dicstnary, a bunch of nail polish, some shoes. A Macon set. A clock. A copple pair of earings. Love, Camryn Dear Santa, I know you won’t get this for me but I would like a hours or a fish. If you can’t get Mia house oh hours or fish you can gust get me more Amarican girl doll clothes. Have I been a good girl this year? I hope I have I got you a gift in my room the black facke dog is holding it at the end of my bed on the big fake present. Love, Alida Dear Santa,

I can’t wait for Christmas because I won’t some of the toys from Toys “R” Us and I want an bald eagle, pinto horse, black bull, blue and yellow mecaw. I want to light up wholahoop. I want some 3DS game. I want some a box 360 girl games. My own magic pen set. A set of frozen fever toy set A chocolate pen set. A wild rabit toy A papo fox , papo wolf. An iPod that charges very fast, some nail polish. Love, Caylee Dear Santa, I can’t wait for Christmas. Santa I want some shoes super Mario maker I want a PS4. The reason I want blue shoes because I don’t have any blue shoes. I want to super Mario maker because it is very fun. The reason I want the PS four is my brother wants one, then he will give me his Xbox 360. I want to peace as a present I want a dog that is a male. I want Skyland or superchargers. I want a picture of you at the north pole. I want my homeroom class to get pencils with erasers. Santa how are the reindeer. How are the elves doing. Sincerely, Lexton Do you Santa, I want a Bay Blade, and a Battlefield. My dad want a motorcycle and a key. My mom want a ring. My sister want to castle. My Ethan a car. My Malcolm want a Batman. Santa, you are the Best. Matt Dear Santa, I want for Christmas is for you to have a good Christmas. I want for Christmas is a ipad, tablet, money, jacket, leotard, guitar, scooters, Oreos, dog,

Madison, trampoline, turtle, candy, robot, bows, lots of pillows , umbrella, bed, dry erase board, chalkboard, clock, paint, portrait, campuses, make up, mirror, bouncing ball, bubbles, fingernail polish, arrows, bench, purses, bags, dimand, car, Nerf gun, darts. Love, Gabby Dear Santa, I want an iPod, iPhone, tablet, money, jacket, shoes, guitar, pants, scooter, Oreos, Alysia, classroom, Taniya, Gabby, ocean, shark, turlte, food more water, kids, robot, half head with a brain, Ms. Weldon, Lexton, whiteboard, Adia, Camryn, umbellua, clock, sign, belts, balls, track dog, bow and aroow, lights, car, nerp gun, darks, boyfriend, make up. Madiso Dear Santa, for Chrismas I want elsa’s ice Palace and a skatbourd and some walki-talkis and some rollerskats also some gams for my PlayStation two and jingle Bell my elf has been good and I’ve been good this year I’m in third grade I’m also 9 years old see you later. Shelby Dear Santa, what I want for Christmas is a mermaid tail, a my life doll, Shopken seson 3, and a perfect birthday! Santa that is all I want for Christmas. thank you. Brittnie Dear Santa, I want my iPod and iPhone 5s and I need money $5000 and electric scooter, my life doll, American doll, and iPad. Taniya

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The Elmore County Commission supports education, economic development, agriculture and tourism. David Bowen, Chairman Mark Hragyil, District 1 Trey Taylor, District 2 Joe Faulk, District 4 Stephanie Daniels Smoke, District 5