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THE WETUMPKA HERALD Elmore County’s Oldest Newspaper - Established 1898
Wetumpka, AL 36092
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WEDNESDAY • DECEMBER 9, 2015
THEWETUMPKAHERALD.COM
Christmas on the Coosa set Saturday More than 100 have registered for event By KEVIN TAYLOR Copy Editor
More than 100 parade entries have registered to be a part of just a portion of an all-day holiday celebration in downtown Wetumpka this Saturday. Wetumpka’s annual Christmas on the Coosa activities begin as early as 7:30 a.m. with the Character Breakfast in which children can have breakfast with some of their favorite story characters from Cinderella to Spider-Man in the Wetumpka Civic Center. King Herod and his officials, of Centerpoint Fellowship, were from left to right: Alex Rouse, Scott Rouse, John Photo by Corey Arwood “The kids love the charac- Passmore and Johnathan Passmore. ters and get to interact with the characters they like to watch on TV,” said Tiffany Robinson, special events/ tourism manager for the City of Wetumpka. Because of its popularity, there will be two pancake breakfast sessions. The first will begin at 7:30 a.m. and the second is scheduled for 9 a.m. By COREY ARWOOD See CHRISTMAS • Page 2 Staff Writer
Downtown Christmas installment successful
The manger scene of First United Methodist of Wetumpka. Photo by Kevin Taylor
There was a large turnout Friday night for the second event in this year’s Christmas on the Coosa. Temperatures fell into the 40’s, but downtown Wetumpka was filled with onlookers who gathered in the streets for the scenes of nativity displays and later in the warmth of the businesses participating in the open house. Local downtown businesses kept their doors open late serving refreshments to passersby and area churches provided See DOWNTOWN • Page 3
VOL. 118, NO.21
Council votes to shut out outside opinions By KEVIN TAYLOR Copy Editor
The debate among Wetumpka City Council members and its mayor as to whom can speak before the council during public meetings was squelched Monday night. City Councilman Percy Gil presented an ordinance which would allow for people who lived outside of the city limits of Wetumpka to speak during the public comment portion of the council meetings. Once brought up to a vote, the ordinance died by a 3-2 margin. Steve Gantt and Gil voted in favor, while Kevin Robbins, Rebecca Thornton and Greg Jones cast the dissenting votes. “Our city relies on the citizens and taxpayers not just from within the city limits but outside of our city limits. I just don’t think it’s progressive See COUNCIL • Page 2
Former W.B. Doby High School designated a historical landmark
By KEVIN TAYLOR Copy Editor
The Alabama Historical Commission recently voted to include the former W.B. Doby High School to the Alabama Register of Landmarks and Heritage. Before being eventually transformed into what is now Wetumpka Elementary School, the building was once the lone high school for all black children of Wetumpka. W.B. Doby was built in 1963 and later closed See LANDMARK • Page 3
Millbrook’s Christmas Parade draws rave reviews CONTACT US 334-567-7811 • Fax: 334-567-3284
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By COREY ARWOOD Staff Writer
Crowds lined the mile-long route down Millbrook’s Main Street Saturday to watch the annual Spirit of Christmas Parade and its 100 or more entries of local schools, organizations, churches and businesses. The parade got off to a raucous start, led by the Millbrook Fire Department and its brigade that moved along with sirens blaring.
The procession that filed behind was made up of decorated floats, marching bands, pageant girls, classic cars and old tractors, some horses and a single calliope organ that played a carnival tune down the road. Most vehicles and floats were carrying local well-wishers and season’s greeters, and with upcoming elections, some area politicians as well. They waved, tossed candy, and even a few Mardi Gras beads to onlookers See PARADE • Page 3
Santa, Mrs. Claus, and some helpers distribute candy and good cheer along Main Street.
Photo by Corey Arwood
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Page 2 • DECEMBER 9, 2015
Council thinking nor does it show appreciation to those who do help our tax base and care what happens in the city from which they do most of their business in,” Gil said. Little to no reaction was heard in the council chambers where just over a dozen people were in attendance. Gil said the disallowance of people living outside of the city to speak started shortly after one person who lived outside of the city voiced his opinion when funding for the Boys and Girls Club was looking to be cut. The debate further came to a head two months ago when Gil began to have concerns over how much of the $6 million bond the city floated was used toward work at the Wetumpka Sports Complex and whether any money would be left to do any renovations or updates in and around the Martin Luther King Jr. Center, which is located just behind the sports complex. When a resident of Elmore wanted to speak during the public comment portion of the meeting, Willis recognized the man and said that he had allowed him to speak before but would not recognize him
TheWetumpkaHerald.com
continued from page 1
to speak again because he did not reside in any of the five council districts within the city. During the Nov. 16 meeting, when Gil first introduced the ordinance, he said the council should not be “exclusive” to those who live outside the city limits since they may support the city’s tax base through retail purchases within the city. Willis argument against was supported by a state attorney general’s opinion that the council be the body which sets the guidelines as to who can and cannot address the council during public comment. “…it is good public policy to allow citizens and taxpayers to express their views within guidelines and restrictions established by (the council),” part of the opinion stated. But it was still members of the council as well as Willis who argued the word “citizen” is defined as one who lives within the town or city’s limits. Gil said people should not feel left out. “We should have a form of government that should be inclusive and not shut people out, which is happening under this mayor’s leadership,” he said.
THE WETUMPKA HERALD
Area Calendar
Community A Kempter Christmas: Back to Bethlehem When: Dec. 10, 7 p.m. Where: Frazer United Methodist Church, Montgomery Details: The Elmore County family Gospel group will perform their annual Christmas concert. Admission is free, but a love offering will be taken. Town of Eclectic Christmas Parade, Christmas Tree Lighting and Cantata When: Dec. 11, 5 p.m. Where: Downtown Eclectic Details: Events kick off with the parade starting at 5 p.m. leading to town hall for the tree lighting at 6:30. The Cantata will be held at 7:30 p.m. in the Elmore County High Auditorium. Slapout Christmas Parade When: Dec. 11, 6:30 p.m. Where: Holtville Road and Lightwood Road, Slapout Details: Parade lineup will begin at 5:20 p.m. at Holtville High School. The Christmas Tree Lighting will be held at 7 p.m. in front of Holley Oil. Movie Night “Polar Express” When: Dec. 11, 6 p.m. Where: Grandview Family YMCA Lodge, Millbrook Details: Come dressed in your PJs and experience the Polar Express Movie Night. Popcorn and Hot Chocolate will be served. Redland Community Association When: Dec. 12, 9 a.m. Where: Redland Volunteer Fire Station #2 (corner of Redland and Jackson roads) Details: An opportunity to visit with fellow Redland community members and to become active on issues, problems and projects for improving the Redland community. For info, call Dan McGinty at 334-207-0104. Christmas on the Coosa When: Dec. 12 Where: Downtown Wetumpka Details: 7 a.m. and 9 a.m. -- Character Breakfast in the Wetumpka Civic Center; 10 a.m. -- Arts & Crafts; 2 p.m. -- Parade; 3 p.m. -- So You Think You Can Cook, Wetumpka? in Gold Star Park; Boat Parade -- 5:30 p.m.; Fireworks -- 6 p.m. Southside Middle School Christmas Concert When: Dec. 14, 7 p.m. Where: Tallassee High Auditorium What a Wonderful Christmas Concert Series When: Dec. 14, 7 p.m. Where: Wetumpka Civic Center
Details: The LeFevre Quartet and Wilburn & Wilburn will be part of the concert. Tickets are $10 each with all proceeds benefiting the Elmore County Food Pantry. NAACP Christmas Social and Canned Food Drive When: Dec. 15, 6:30 p.m. Where: MLK Recreation Center, Wetumpka Details: The newly reorganized Elmore County NAACP 5026 invites all to aid the Elmore County Food Pantry. All are encouraged to bring two canned goods and two other non-perishable food items. The meet and greet is open to all. Call Bobby Mays at 334-475-0795 or Wanda Penn at 334-220-1554 for more information. Tallassee High School Christmas Concert When: Dec. 15, 7 p.m. Where: Tallassee High Auditorium Wetumpka Depot Players present “The Holiday Bug” When: Dec. 16-18, 7 p.m.; Dec. 19, 10 a.m. Where: Wetumpka Depot Theatre Details: The Holiday Bug is a Puppet performance perfect for all ages. The Christmas production is recommended for ages 7 and up with plenty of clean entertainment for the adults, too. Call 334-8681440 for more information and tickets Glenn Miller Holiday Concert When: Dec. 17, 7 p.m. Where: Davis Theatre, Troy Montgomery Details: Doors open at 6:30 p.m. It is a free concert, but canned food donations are appreciated. Call 334-953-3500 for more information. Millbrook Chamber of Commerce Christmas Open House When: Dec. 18, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Where: Millbrook Chamber of Commerce City of Wetumpka Children’s Christmas Party When: Dec. 20, 2-4 p.m. Where: Wetumpka Civic Center Details: Families will arrive at Wetumpka Civic Center for a delicious lunch provided by Wind Creek Hospitality’s ‘Good to Go’ food truck. After lunch, the children will go up onto the stage and the staff from the Wetumpka Police Department and the City of Wetumpka will hand out gifts. Auditions for “Steel Magnolias” When: Dec. 20, 2 p.m.; Dec. 21, 7 p.m. Where: Wetumpka Depot Theatre Details: The Wetumpka Depot Players announce auditions for the first show of their 36th season. Director Carol Thomaston Heier asks that those auditioning be
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prepared with a “southern story” to share (less than 2 minutes) as well as cold readings from the script. Camp Chandler Christmas Camp Fun When: Dec. 20-22 Where: Camp Chandler Details: Children ages 5-14 are welcome. Activities will include fishing, archery, riflery, canoes, broom hockey, field games, pedal boats, putt putt, campfire with s’mores, holiday crafts, Christmas goodies, Christmas tree trimming, a party, and more! YMCA members $105, non-members $120. For info, call 334-229-0035. A Christmas Gathering When: Dec. 21, 6 p.m. Where: Historic 1987 Superintendent’s House on Lower Tuskegee Road Details: Sponsored by the Tallassee Historical Preservation Society. 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. City of Wetumpka New Year’s Eve Celebration When: Dec. 31 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. 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. Self-Defense Class When: Jan. 11 Where: Tallassee Recreation Center Details: Contact the recreation department if you are interested
Christmas “This is always a special time of year in Wetumpka,” said its Mayor Jerry Willis. “Wetumpka’s Christmas on the Coosa showcases the unified spirit and charm of this community.” The Christmas on the Coosa 12K run follows at 9 a.m. Shortly after the run begins, various vendors will be located in Gold Star Park with a number of arts and crafts for sale just in time for Christmas. The vendors will be on site from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Robinson estimates total attendance for all the events Saturday will easily be 5,000 or more. “We are going to have beautiful weather for once, so we expect a really good crowd throughout the day,” she said. People will begin to line up along West Bridge and South Main streets just after noon to get their perfect vantage point to watch the street parade. As of Monday there were 104 parade entries signed up, and Robinson said there could be more by Saturday. This year’s parade grand marshal is Doug
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. 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.
Sports & Outdoors Christmas at ANC When: Dec. 12, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Where: Alabama Wildlife Federation NaturePlex, Millbrook Details: Learn how to create your own nature ornament, get pictures with Santa, enjoy our Christmas movie special, and make sure to go on the hay ride! Christmas is always fun here at the ANC, we will have hot chocolate for sale and plenty of activities to keep you warm. Admission is $5 per person. 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. Christmas at Lanark When: Dec. 8, 10, 11, 9-11 a.m. or Noon-2 p.m. Where: Alabama Nature Center, Millbrook Details: Join Santa with a funfilled day of Christmas activities at Lanark Field Days. Sit on Santa’s lap, enjoy a hayride, hear holiday stories, make a Christmas snack, candy cane hike and Christmas crafts. Admission is $8 per child.
Government Elmore County BOE Meeting When: Dec. 14, 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. Elmore County Commission Meeting When: Dec. 14, 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: Dec. 14, 6 to 7:30 p.m. Where: Tallassee City Hall
continued from page 1
Finlay, who has served as Santa’s helper for 14 years. “He has just been and played an active part in the parade,” Robinson said. Joining Finlay will be various entries from Boy Scout troops to marching bands. And of course the man everyone will be waiting to see, Santa Claus, will take time out of his busy schedule to drop by. Following the parade another new item to the celebration will be the cooking contest “So You Think You Can Cook Wetumpka?” Various teams will be preparing their best dishes to be judged. Just after dark, Santa Claus will make a quick return visit on water skis to kick off the annual boat parade along the bank of the Coosa River in front of Gold Star Park. And right after the last boat passes by, a huge fireworks display will be launched. “It’s a tradition for Wetumpka. If you’ve been to Wetumpka you’ve heard of Christmas on the Coosa,” Robinson added. “You can’t see Santa on water skis just anywhere.”
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Landmark
DECEMBER 9, 2015 • Page 3
continued from page 1
in 1970 when black high school students integrated into Wetumpka High School. Committee members Winfred Wise, Reba Glasper Steele, Diann Varner, Margie Wilkerson Malone, Robert Sims, Melvin Palmore, Billie Ruth Rawls, Yancey Mitchell and Frances Rawls Thomas worked diligently through the process to have the school placed on the state register. The school was named after Welton B. Doby, who was the principal of the Elmore County Training School and first president of the Elmore County Teachers Association. Robert A. Geeter served as the first principal of W.B. Doby High followed by Theodore Jackson
before the school’s closing. In 1966 a dozen Doby high school students were integrated into Wetumpka High School before all black high school children were fully integrated into WHS by 1970. After W.B. Doby closed it soon became Wetumpka Junior High and later the Wetumpka Elementary of present. Committee chairman Winfred Wise said a historical marker will be placed on the property “to preserve the school’s origin.� Wise said he hopes to have the marker unveiled sometime this summer.
Downtown
continued from page 1
the scenery for the nativity depictions. There was a steady flow of foot traffic down the candle-lit streets and still more people continued to arrive as it got later. But more than the onlookers facing the cold, the infants, children, teens, adult and senior performers of the displays refused to relent to the cold, betray their scene and fail their audience. Roughly 12 different churches of various denominations, from throughout the Wetumpka area enacted the different scenes. “This year we wanted to focus on the giving spirit of Christmas,� said Tiffany Robinson, the City of Wetumpka’s special events and tourism manager. Robinson said this was the third year she has overseen Christmas on the Coosa. And she said the event grows with each year. There were crowds gathered inside most of the businesses and a steady exchange of people at the door. The owner of The Vault Variety, Sharon Brooks, said that she was excited about the night’s turnout. “I love it, I love it and I love it. Awesome, awesome and awesome,� Brooks said.
One street over at River Perk, Kari Butler said that the weather despite being cold, was nicer than last year and she thought that gave the turnout a boost. “I’m impressed. I am really glad so many people came out,� Butler said. And at Austin’s Flowers and Gifts, owner Jennifer Powers said she thought the turnout was great. “There’s always a lot of people that come out for this,� Powers said. And it was because of its popularity and growth that Robinson said the city moved the event from the river-walk downtown to promote local businesses. Through some of the Christmas on the Coosa events, Robinson said the city collects items for any one of its various charities. She gave an example of the recent pageant. Robinson said that the girls who participated were told to donate a paper product to the Wetumpka Police Department and its PECK program for people who encounter homelessness. “It’s just a good time for fellowship for the community and to kick off the Christmas season,� Robinson said.
Parade
continued from page 1
and scores of screaming children that flitted about to catch the goods. This year’s “Miracle on Main Streetâ€? themed parade was orchestrated by a team of overseers at Kelley Accounting in Millbrook. “You couldn’t have asked for a better parade ‌ to me it seemed like the floats were better than ever this year,â€? said Kathy Kelley, the Spirit of Christmas chairman and co-owner of Kelley Accounting. An officer with the Millbrook Police Department standing nearby added he also thought it was the one Kelley’s best parades, and from his perspective, working the parade, everything flowed nicely. Kelley said the crowd was “awesome,â€? and she thought the turnout this year was even better than recent years. “It was awesome, we had great weather; it’s Christmas,â€? Kelley said. There were also vendors gathered just off the parade route, that had been there since Saturday morning. “It’s been a fair day, the weather’s been pretty; Papa ain’t gonna knock it,â€? said “Papaâ€? Owen, of Pa Pa’s and Grammie’s P-nuts.
Three winners were taken from each category and there was an overall winner based on theme. In order, the winners among the clubs and organizations were:
Church Category • Goodship Missionary Baptist Church • Living Faith Church • Lake Elam Missionary Baptist
Clubs and Organizations Category • Boy Scouts Troop 191 • Alabama Angels Pageant •Cub Pack 19
Area Schools Category • Coosada Elementary School • MMS Golden Key Club • Elmore County Tech Center Businesses Category
• Haynes Life Flight • Lisa’s Dance Dimensions • Wind Creek Montgomery Best Representation of Theme • Lisa’s Dance Dimensions.
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OPINION
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.
Page 4 • DECEMBER 9, 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 City Councilman Percy Gil absolutely right
T
he Wetumpka City Council voted against an ordinance allowing those who live outside the city limits the ability to speak during the comments portion of city council meeting Monday. What that means to those that live in the surrounding communities and visitors to Wetumpka is you have no voice in a public forum to address concerns and issues, or offer suggestions on how to make Wetumpka a better place to live, or visit. City Councilman Percy Gil, who brought forward an ordinance to allow those who live outside the city limits, has it right. The city not only receives revenue from visitors to the area, but also other forms of monies from outside the city. Businesses come in who employ people from outside the county, as well. To deny those people the right to voice their opinions, good and bad, who help make Wetumpka a place people that want to visit, goes against everything the U.S. Constitution stands for, mainly, free speech. Voting against the ordinance said in a matter of fact way, “We’ll take your money, but keep your opinions or issues to yourself.” That’s not a very good way to welcome people from outside the city limits, nor is it very progressive as a city who is trying to bring businesses in. And, what does voting down the ordinance say to those who may have positive suggestions to make the city a better place to be? Putting a gag on free speech is never the answer. It’s a Constitutional right. To limit the people’s voices, within the city limits or outside the city limits, is not the way an elected official deals with issues. Leadership, which is what the city council is supposed to represent, is not leadership if it doesn’t create a vision of the future, coach and build or motivate people to accomplish things. Leaders lead by example and the example set by the recent rebuttal of the ordinance allowing ALL to speak or comment at the city council meeting falls short of what leaders do — set the example and do the right thing.
Top 10 comedic news stories of 2015 B e still your beating hearts, because the agonizing wait is over. Wake the kids. Rake the leaves. Fake speaking in tongues. Yes, it’s the most wonderful time of the year, when the eagerly awaited list of Top 10 Comedic News Stories of 2015 is finally, mercifully released. Yoke an ox. Toke some skunk. Poke Uncle Bud to make sure he’s still ambulatory. Under no circumstances is this list to be confused with the Top Ten Legitimate News Stories of 2015. No. No. No. No. No. They are as different as back and forth. Like fireworks and 14-inch aluminum pipe wrenches. Yellow grape-tomatoes and marble Corinthian columns. Flaming hulahoops dropped from CIA drones and the plastic to-go cups used by drive-through Margarita stands off highway 10 outside New Orleans. Feet and sleet. These contents purposefully ignore the death, destruction and dastardly deeds of this past annum horribilis to focus on the delightfully diverting and droll. Herein, you will find no mention of Syrian refugees or Paris or San Bernardino or ISIS or FIFA or Boko Haram or Bill Cosby or Paris or even horrors of horrors, Jeb Bush’s presidential campaign. Rest assured the 16th year of this new millennium garnered quite a
WILL DURST Guest Columnist
few wacky and zany antics lending themselves to the tickling amusement of we, the American masses, and it’s time to take a fine-tooth comb to sift for the amusing bits so that we can mock and scoff and taunt and form a sort of mental scab. 10. The hacking of the Ashley Madison website, forcing Bill Clinton to spend four months trying to scrub his name off the client list. He probably got his people to copy and paste the damn thing as well. 9. The Hollywooding of Bernie Sanders, who went from little-known Vermont curmudgeon to leader of the Stop Hillary movement. He proves that while you can take the curmudgeon out of Vermont, you can’t take the pain-in-the-ass out of the curmudgeon. Or something like that. 8. Rachel Dolezal, the Caucasian head of the NAACP who claimed to be black, but was exposed when investigators found a Justin Bieber poster on her office wall. Also, she can’t dance for crap.
7. Faulty airbags. The first inklings of this scandal caused many folks to conclude the feds were going to recall Mitch McConnell. 6. Kim Davis, the Kentucky County clerk who apparently was told by God not only to deny gay couples’ marriage certificates but also get divorced three times then marry some guy who goes on national television wearing overalls. 5. Caitlyn Jenner, who finally succumbed to the excessive levels of estrogen floating around the Kardashian household. At least she demonstrated her independence by spelling Caitlyn with a “C.” 4. The Benghazi hearings, where Republicans revealed their test for Hillary - if she doesn’t float, she’s not a witch. 3. The Republican presidential debates, where the whole world witnessed the fight over the party’s very soul. Alas, the soul lost. 2. Deflategate, precipitated by Tom Brady’s belief that the ball was way too heavy with all that air in it. 1. The hot-air, force of nature that is Donald Trump. The candidate for every voter who just couldn’t cozy up to the intellectual elitism of Sarah Palin. Will Durst is an award-winning, nationally acclaimed columnist, comedian and margarine smuggler.
YOUR VIEW
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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 334-567-3535. © 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 Shannon Elliott, marketing consultant Shannon.Elliott@TheWetumpkaHerald.com. . . . . . . . . Ext. 309 Jayne Carr, marketing consultant Jayne.Carr@TheWetumpkaHerald.com. . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 313
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Gubernatorial Derby an interesting race T his week we will continue our analysis of the potential horses in the 2018 Alabama Gubernatorial Derby. So far, we have counted down from 18 to 8. In descending order the list includes Speaker of the House Mike Hubbard , Supreme Court Justice Jim Main, Sen. Greg Reed, Sen. Arthur Orr, Mayor Vaughn Stewart, Mayor Walt Maddox, Mayor Sandy Stimpson, Congressman Bradley Byrne, Lt. Gov. Kay Ivey, Sen. Del Marsh and State Agriculture Commissioner John McMillan. The next four horses will be revealed today and we will conclude the series next week when we reveal the top three horses. We begin this week with the Number 7 horse, Attorney General Luther Strange. Of the known candidates, Strange will have served eight years in a job that is the best stepping-stone to governor. At 6-9, Big Luther will be the tallest horse in the race. He is a proven fundraiser with close personal ties to the Birmingham business community. However, he has had a somewhat controversial tenure. His continuation of the Bob Riley-era gambling circus demagoguery is a tar baby. The Number 6 horse, Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle, is going to be a player and will make it to the gate. Battle will most likely be in the 2018 Governor’s Race. Being the popular mayor of the Rocket City makes him a contender in the contest. Huntsville is the crown jewel city of the state. It is as though it really does not belong in Alabama. It is like the Silicon Valley of California or the
STEVE FLOWERS Columnist
Research Triangle of North Carolina was placed in North Alabama. Huntsville has more PhDs per capita than any city in the southeast. Huntsville is the heart of the vote rich Tennessee Valley. Battle will be the hometown candidate from the area. He will benefit from his name recognition and popularity in his region. He won re-election as mayor of Huntsville with 81 percent of the vote. He will do well in North Alabama. The key will be if he can become more than a regional candidate. Our sixth-ranked horse will benefit from the fact that he is dedicated to running and has been committed to the 2018 Governor’s Race for a while. Contrary to Battle’s dedication to the race, our Number 5 horse, State Treasurer Young Boozer, seems ambivalent about his political future. Boozer has been in banking for his career. He is not a natural politician. He was perfect for the State Treasurer post. Probably when he ran for that job he thought that would be his tenure in politics and he would cap off his career with that experience. Therefore, he is probably wrestling with the decision of whether he should go any further at age 65. He has a great name. He is not the first Young Boozer. His grandfather, Young Boozer,
was a successful businessman and mayor of Samson. His father, Young Boozer II, was an ultra-successful businessman who starred in football at the University of Alabama with Bear Bryant. He was the hero of a famous Rose Bowl victory over Stanford in the 1920’s. This Young Boozer graduated from Stanford. That leads us to our Number 4 horse, who is a real thoroughbred. Secretary of State John Merrill is the best retail politician on the state stage today. He is the only one on the scene that reminds me of the master politicians of bygone days in Alabama. He is meticulously organized and built a grassroots statewide organization in his victorious race for Secretary of State in 2014. He won the old fashioned way by getting out and meeting people and working from sunup to sundown. His victory illuminated the old friends and neighbors tradition in Alabama politics. He ran like a scolded dog in his hometown of Tuscaloosa and his boyhood family stomping grounds of Cleburne County. He will have to make a tough choice whether to keep his safe Secretary of State post or roll the dice in 2018. We will conclude our handicapping of the horses in the 2018 Alabama Derby next week when we reveal the top three potential horses in the race. See you next week. Steve Flowers is Alabama’s leading political columnist. He served 16 years in the state legislature. Steve may be reached at www.steveflowers.us.
THE WETUMPKA HERALD
TheWetumpkaHerald.com
DECEMBER 9, 2015 • Page 5
I’m not a meteorologist, I just weather the storm
N
othing is more calming than listening to the sound of water. Whether it’s ocean waves, the sound of rain falling on a tin roof or an electronic wave machine that simulates the flow of water or raindrops, the sound of water has a calming effect for many. But, we all know that sometimes even ocean waves can become less than calming when a storm is approaching, or has hit land. And, soothing raindrops can sometimes turn into torrential downpours and storms. The good news is that storms, whether on the ocean or in our own back yard, always pass and are a necessary evil in our lives. How we choose to deal with these temporary periods, however, is completely within our own control. The most immediate instinct that comes to mind when we are caught up in a storm, or something we think is about to be a storm, is to take defensive measures or run. But, not all the time is that the best avenue of “weathering the storm.” To put it into perspective, weather
By Rea Cord Executive Director Christmas is coming up fast and it can be a great time to bring home a new pet since you may have time off for the holidays and everyone will be home to welcome the new pet to the family. If you are thinking of adding a pet we do hope you come to our shelter (or any shelter for that matter) to find your new best friend. Surprising your children, parents, or spouse with a pet may work out wonderfully since the giver is also a recipient but we do caution against getting a pet as a gift for a non-family friend. A pet is a very personal bond and one reason we are happy to offer Adoption Gift Certificate/Gift Baskets for you to purchase so that the recipient can come at a later time to find their new best friend. This way the adoption is paid for and you can even add items like food, dishes, toys, etc so the recipient will have everything they need to bring their new puppy or kitten home. These certifi-
Dear John By John W. Peeler forecasters are not always correct. I can’t count the number of times bad weather has been predicted that never materialized. Sometimes, a wait and see approach, or patience, is the best plan of action. Like today five minutes ago the sun was shining and now it is pouring down rain … without warning. Things happen and sometimes we never see it coming. Have you ever looked outside and after looking at the leaves on the foliage, everything within you tells you it is going to rain? The leaves are turned over, but the sun is shining bright. Then, you check the weather forecast and know it’s supposed to be overcast, but no rain predicted. So, you’ve done your due diligence
cates are good for one year so an adopter doesn’t have to feel rushed if they don’t find ‘the’ one that first visit. This can also give them time to get through the hectic holidays and then look for their new best friend when things calm down at home. We are open for adoptions from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday. We will, however, only do pick-ups of pre-approved adoptions on Dec. 24 until noon and then will be closed Dec. 25-26. For your planning, our adoption fees are $100 for dogs & $50 for cats under 1 year old; cats over 1 year old can be adopted by approved adopters for an adoption fee of their choosing. This adoption fee completely covers the mandatory spay or neuter, basic immunizations, de-worming, microchip, heartworm check for dogs, rabies vaccination if old enough, 45 days of pet health insurance and a free health exam with your participating veterinarian. And while we would love it if all of our pets found home for the holidays, we also want potential adopters to make sure they are ready. Christmas parties, visiting relatives, tempting presents under the tree and people food everywhere can also make Christmas a hectic time of year to bring home a new pet. A new puppy can mean a lot of ‘accident’ clean-up and a new kitten will just love climbing the Christmas tree to play with all those decorations and could be a lot to handle with all of
and checked for signs of rain, right? Later, you realize you should have gone with your intuition as you watch it pour down rain. Not all storms are bad, though. Storms have a way of resetting balance, both ecologically speaking and in life. Everything that looks bad, isn’t … everything that looks good, isn’t … but, how we “weather” the turbulent times in our lives is what builds character and gives us the experience we need to grow as a person. We probably can all say we have weathered many storms throughout our lives. Some of those storms reset us and gave us balance and direction. Other storms, have torn us down and made us wonder when the rain will stop. But, the rain will stop. And, when all is said and done, you will have weathered the storm. At the end of the storm, the clouds will part and behind those dark clouds a new day will dawn with new meaning and purpose — if you can find a way to shine.
the other ongoing activities. We tell adopters that bringing home a new pet is a bit like adding a four-footed child, so we just want to help potential adopters make sure they are ready for the commitment a new pet brings since we want it to be a lifetime of love for people and pet alike. On Dec. 19, we hope you can stop by for our Shelter Christmas Open House from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. And, visit with Santa, who will also be with us for photos with pets and children. You can take your own photo of your pet with Santa or we can help take a photo using your camera or smart phone. Any donated pet supply item would be greatly appreciated. For those who may not have visited us before, our address is 255 Central Plank Road, Wetumpka, AL 36092, and if you need directions just give us a call at 334-567-3377. Don’t forget to check out our Tails End Thrift Store (co-located at the shelter) for gifts for yourself and your friends. Our Thrift Store has clothes, linens, Christmas decorations, books, collectibles, small appliances, toys and so much more. The store will be open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 10- 12 and Dec. 17-19 Dec and can also receive donations during those hours. While at our Thrift Store please thank our volunteers who work so hard receiving, sorting and selling all of the donated items on behalf of all the animals we all work so hard to help.
Wetumpka Flea Market & Antiques
5266 U.S. Hwy. 231 (Winn Dixie Shopping Center)
(334) 567-2666
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Chilton Surgical Chilton Surgical Chilton Surgical Chilton Surgical Associates, Associates, P.C. P.PC. .C. Associates, Associates,
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FAITH
Phone 334-567-7811 Fax 334-567-3284 News@TheWetumpkaHerald.com TheWetumpkaHerald.com
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TheWetumpkaHerald.com
God’s suggestions for gift giving
G
reetings from the corner of Bridge and Bridge! Only 16 shopping days until Christmas! Have you found the perfect gift for everyone on your list yet? There are as many approaches to Christmas shopping as there are options for Christmas gifts. Some folks plan incessantly. Others scour the sales circulars in search of the absolute best deal. Some procrastinate. Others are completely finished with their shopping before the first decoration gets put up. All of this happens in the name of making us and others happy. The worlds of the sacred and the secular are often at odds during the season of Advent. Religious leaders bemoan the continued encroachment of our consumer economy into the preparation for and celebration of the birth of Christ. The rhetoric at times becomes hostile and judgmental. Finding the peace of Christ can be challenging this time of year. As a pastor, I can understand why this happens. The season of Advent is one of the busiest in the life of the church, as it should be. Most congregations participate in special ministries in December, and finding the time to prepare and implement those ministries is a challenge. Funding these ministries in trying economic times is an additional challenge.
REV. JONATHAN YARBORO First Presbyterian Church
Have you ever wondered if the Bible has anything to say that might help navigate the confusion? Is it appropriate to even bother God with the limits of our understanding? You might be surprised at what you find if you are willing to look. First, we have impeccable wisdom regarding the spirit of the giver. In giving humanity the gift of grace, God freely gives without reservation or condition. The gift of grace is freely given to all, with no expectation of anything in return. Second, God knows our every need. God’s gifts of blessing address those needs. They are not concerned with our wants. God is wise enough to leave the satisfaction of human want to us. God regularly provides everything we need, not just to survive, but to thrive. Third, by addressing needs rather than wants, God empowers us to be the people God created us to be. God’s gifts are not intended for us alone. They are always given in abundance so there is always enough blessing to share.
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
Finally, God’s giving is seldom what we expect. As a result, we always have reason to be surprised. I don’t care what anyone says to the contrary; surprises always make the best gifts. As you navigate the holiday season, take a moment to think about God’s model for giving. God so loved the world that God came into the world in human form to show us what the life of faith makes possible. Jesus Christ, God’s gift of example to all, encouraged everyone he encountered to love others as we are loved by God. Jesus led by example. Jesus greeted everyone God placed in his path with the love and compassion God has for the whole of humanity. In doing so, Jesus witnessed to that love, no matter what he was doing. What an incredible gift. The things we do for others are important, as is the motivation behind our actions. However, our efforts will always pale in comparison to what God does, and that is OK. Do the things that make you happy during Advent and Christmas. Know the things God does offer much more than happiness. God’s giving redeems, restores and relocates the lost. Think about it. The Rev. Jonathan Yarboro is the pastor of First Presbyterian Church in Wetumpka.
8000 Titus Road Titus, Ala.
Pastor
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
Obituaries Fletcher Haynie
Mr. Fletcher Haynie, 83, of Eclectic passed away Dec. 5. He was born Oct. 13, 1932. Visitation will be 5:30-7:30 p.m. Dec. 9 at Linville Memorial Funeral Home. Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Dec. 10 at First Baptist Church of Eclectic with the Rev. Britt Green and the Rev. Dru Mattox officiating. Burial will follow at Pleasant Grove Cemetery with Linville Memorial Funeral Home directing. He is survived by wife, Iva Haynie; son, Darrell Haynie; daughter, Charlotte Mattox (Dru); daughter-in-law, Gail Haynie; brother, Luke Haynie (Pat); grandchildren, David Fletcher Haynie Jr. (Lindsey), Jennifer Salemi (Ryan), Brett Mattox and Aaron Mattox and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. He is preceded in death by wife, Evelyn Ruth Haynie; son, David Fletcher Haynie Sr.; and siblings, Betty Luke Haynie, Howard Williams “Chicken” Haynie, Lorene Canty and Morris Haynie. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Kindness Ministry, First Baptist Church of Eclectic, PO Box 240400, Eclectic, AL 36024. Online condolences at www.linvillememorial.com.
Religion Calendar • A Kempter Christmas: Back to Bethlehem will be held at 7 p.m. Dec. 10 at Frazer United Methodist Church in Montgomery. The Elmore County family Gospel group will performe their annual Christmas concert. Admission is free, but a love offering will be taken. • Cedarwood Community Church of Wallsboro will be showing the movie, “The Christmas Candle” at 6:30 p.m. Dec. 11. There is no charge for attending, and this program is part of the Church’s Advent and Outreach programs. For more information please call the church office at 334-567-0476. • First United Methodist Church of Tallassee will host a Christmas Cantata at 6 p.m. Dec. 13. Everyone is invited to attend. • First Baptist Church of Tallassee will host a musical Christmas drama at 4&6 p.m. Dec. 13. Everyone is invited to attend.
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
11066 U.S. 231, Wallsboro
Rickey Luster, Music Director
THE WETUMPKA HERALD
First Presbyterian Church
Harmony United Methodist Church
Wallsboro United Methodist Church Rev. Ryan Johnson
Visit our sister website: TallasseeTribune.com
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 9, 2015 • Page 7
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“Train up a child in the way he should go and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” – Proverbs 22:6
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Page 8 • DECEMBER 9, 2015
TheWetumpkaHerald.com
THE WETUMPKA HERALD
17 earn Master Gardener distinction STAFF REPORT Herald Staff
The Central Alabama Master Gardeners Association recently honored 17 graduates of the 2014 Master Gardener Intern Class after the interns had completed the requirements to become full-fledged Master Gardeners. In addition to attending weekly classes for 13 weeks, each intern was required to contribute a minimum of 50 volunteer hours in order to qualify for graduation. The 17 members of the Class of 2014 contributed 1,529 volunteer hours, an average of nearly 90 hours per Intern. Master Gardener class subjects included basic landscape design and plant selection; plant propagation; soils and plant nutrition, vegetable gardening and many more. Class instructors included Alabama Cooperative Extension System County Agents, experts from Auburn University and experienced Master Gardeners. Interns could accrue volunteer hours by “Learning In The Garden” at the ACES facility on Queen Ann Road in Wetumpka, volunteer at the Alabama Wildlife Federation in Millbrook, aid in answering gardening-related questions at the Millbrook Farmers’ Market, volunteer to staff the ACES Help Line by assisting those who call in asking for gardening advice and other activities.
CAMGA honored 17 graduates of the 2014 intern class at recent graduation ceremonies. The graduates were Melanie Barry, Tallassee; Sharon Cleary, Alexander City; Sandy Rosemond, Wetumpka; Peggy Gelpi, Montgomery; Lavonne Hart, Tallassee; Cindy Beumer, Wetumpka; Linda Queen, Deatsville; Rod Douglas, Wetumpka and Don Hoover, Wetumpka; Mike Harber, Shorter; Robin Culver, Tallassee; Darla Tiesling, Montgomery; James May, Montgomery; Submitted photo Joyce Vella, Tallassee; Terry Chambliss, Wetumpka and Corky Butts, Deatsville.
WIN A $500 VISA GIFT CARD What do you do for fun in Elmore County? Where do you shop? Answer questions like these and others in a quick 10 minute online survey. Clink on the link at wetumpkaherald.com or go to pluseresearch.com/shoppingsurvey
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Wetumpka Elementary sings its way to Christmas
By JOHN W. PEELER Managing Editor
If you want to treat yourself to some up-and-coming singers, you can say you saw them first at the Wetumpka Elementary School. The WES chorus gets in the holiday swing of things at 6 p.m. Thursday when they present their Chorus Program at WES. Then, on Saturday as a part of the Christmas on the Coosa, WES first- and second-grade students will be singing their way through the parade and the Clown Troupe will be riding a float in the parade. Students will get a treat, too, as they ride the bus
with Andre’ L. Harrison, Elmore County superintendent of education. And this year’s Little WES Queen, Lexi Naylor, will represent the school during the parade, as well. Some can’t wait for school to let out over the Christmas break. “Can’t wait to see my family and friends over Christmas Break,” said Cam McMillian, a WES student. While there are still some school days left, Bonnie Sullivan, WES principal, looks forward to her students returning. “We have a wonderful school and can’t wait to see everyone next year,” Sullivan said.
Wetumpka Middle School busy during the holidays By JOHN W. PEELER Managing Editor
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Wetumpka Middle School helped bring in the Christmas season by helping light the city Christmas tree last week with the band offering Christmas music during the ceremony, but the school isn’t done showing its holiday spirit and student accomplishments. “Anytime the kids can go and show their talents to the different stakeholders in the community, that’s always a positive,” said Tremeca Jackson, Wetumpka Middle School principal. WMS band has a close relationship with the Wetumpka High School band program, Jackson said, and participated in the Christmas program at the high school Tuesday. Jackson said the Beta Club will honor its seventh- and eighth-grade students with an induction ceremony Thursday at WMS. The Beta Club, she said, is for those students that academically have all “A’s” and “A’s and B’s.” “They (Beta Club) also
do community service projects inside of the community and outside the community,” she said. “(Monday) for instance, we took a group of boys and girls to the nursing home here in Wetumpka and helped them decorate.” Friday will be a big day for fifth-graders when they graduate the Drug Abuse Resistance Education program. “We are really excited about that,” Jackson said. “Teaching students about drug awareness and how to respond positively when there is peer pressure. We want to get them early on and get them prepared for when they are in situations like that and how to respond to those challenging situations.” WMS will round out the week Saturday as participants in the Christmas on the Coosa parade. “Our cheerleaders and our dance team will be participants in the parade,” she said. “We want to show the community the different talents we have here.”
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Wetumpka students lead the way The Wetumpka High School JROTC program recently hosted a special assembly to honor our nation’s veterans. The high school’s symphonic band performed special musical numbers, along with our school choir and two visiting vocalists, Lisa and Cassidy Jackson. Guest speaker Dr. Jeff Langham encouraged students to express gratitude every day to our nation’s Veterans and to give the Vets an opportunity to share their story. Students dressed in red, white, and blue applauded and held up “thank you” signs to honor all veterans who Submitted / The Herald attended.
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Newly crowned Miss Christmas on the Coosa Emma Clai Gunter recently held a book drive to collect and donate more than 300 children’s books to the Wetumpka Public Library. Gunter’s platform is that reading is fun and seeks to promote literacy in the community. Accepting the books is Myrna Hays, who is in charge of the children’s Kevin Taylor / The Herald section at the library.
Wetumpka High School recently announced their Students of the Month for November. They are (freshmen) Austin McDowell, Anna Katherine Shineflew; (sophomores) Tavien White, Rebekah Rankin; (juniors) Landry Staves, Brandi Smoke; (seniors) Cody Lewis and Brooke Cannon. Submitted / The Herald
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Lady Tribe wins 10th in a row v. SEHS BY CORY DIAZ Sports Editor
Wetumpka point guard Shadeja Wright-Lucas puts up a shot earlier Photo by Cory Diaz this season.
Wetumpka won its 10th straight regular season meeting over rival Stanhope Elmore, 62-44, Friday at home. Four Lady Indians scored double digits as WHS (3-3, 1-0) captured the early, Class 6A, Area 4 lead with the victory against its county rival. “You’ll win more games when you have a total team effort,” Wetumpka girls basketball coach Jermel Bell said. “The one thing on offense, we made more layups when we had an offensive opportunity. We converted our shots, we shot better from the field, and we also drove to the basket more.” Guard Tyauna Ferguson and Shadeja
Wright-Lucas lit the offensive fuse, scoring 18 apiece, but by also getting the ball inside where forwards Tamara Donley and Zekeria Hooks each added 10 points. The Lady Tribe led Stanhope wireto-wire, and took a 32-18 advantage into halftime after giving up just one point in the second quarter. Bell lauded the defensive effort, as he said his team’s starting to grasp the aggressive offensive approach they set out with from the beginning of the year. “They’re starting to understand how to get to the basket, get inside more and get the bigs to touch it more. And when we get the opportunity to get to the basket, they’re making their la-
yups, making those easy mid-range shots,” Bell said. Wetumpka maintaining its stranglehold over Stanhope was crucial, Bell said, but he was happier with how the Lady Indians played. “It’s good to know (WHS’s won 10 straight versus the Mustangs), but my biggest thing was coming out and playing with energy and intensity on the defensive end. We want to get to basket as much as possible, and we need to create energy on the defensive end to create opportunities on the offensive end,” Bell said. “After starting slow, we started out 0-2 this year, I think we’re getting into a rhythm. Now I think they understand how I wanted things done.”
Holtville Youth Baseball & Softball League announces a change to its bylaws. For questions or comments, call commissioner Michael Brock at (334) 569-3511.
Indians roll Mustangs in area rivalry tilt BY CORY DIAZ Sports Editor
Wetumpka’s Cole Blackwell rolls Montgomery-Catholic’s Elijah Friday during Monday’s tri-meet at Holtville.
Photo by Cory Diaz
Wetumpka edges Dawgs on tiebreak BY CORY DIAZ Sports Editor Cole Blackwell’s 7-4 decision over Tristan Watson secured a sweep for Wetumpka at a Holtville tri-meet Monday night. The Indians defeated the Bulldogs, 36-36, on a tiebreaker as Blackwell’s win was the team’s seventh for the dual, while HHS managed just six. “I’m excited about where we’re at right now,” WHS wrestling coach John Mason said. “Coming here, doing what we did, I feel like our leadership is starting to show a little bit more. We’re finally getting our weight classes in line; now you’re starting to see some acceleration out of the Wetumpka squad.” Normally wrestling at 113, Watson competed up a class as Blackwell took an early lead and held on for the 7-4 decision to give the Tribe the sweep. WHS defeated Montgomery-Catholic, 54-24. Holtville coach Ben Jackson said he has full confidence in his grapplers and
was proud of Watson. “It definitely tells them that we have confidence in them, especially Tristan,” Jackson said. “Tristan told us he thought he could take the guy. He had a great match against the kid, just couldn’t turn in the end, lost by just three points, a decision, which isn’t huge, but when you look at how they won, how we lost, it makes you question your decision making.” The same strategy worked against Catholic as the Bulldogs won the dual, 42-23. HHS picked up five pinfalls to WHS’s one, as Cameron McCormick (132-pound) and Cody Gibson (145-pound) opened the dual for the Dawgs with a pin over Clay Spivey and James Stroh, respectively. Jaret Gallops garnered the Indians’ first win, a 12-2 major decision over Kenneth Segarra in their 152-pound bout. Holtville got back on track with two more pinfalls, Chase Headley versus Elijah Weems and Garrett Baker versus
Zane Mason. But Wetumpka responded as Trevor Leonard pinned Evan Headley and heavyweight Trent Holley defeated Jacob Stodgehill with a 19-3 technical fall. In a 106-pound match, Spencer Gordon regained the lead for HHS with a pin against Dawson Tadlock, before Blackwell’s victory sent the dual to the tiebreak. While his team, who was missing five starters, went 1-1 in the tri-meet, Jackson said he saw a lot of good things out of his group, including Headley and Bakers’ upsets. After dropping the first few duals of the season, Mason said he felt his team has turned the corner, thanks to its leadership. “The returning wrestlers we have from last year, took to that team mentality,” Mason said. “It’s really taken off for us. Trent Holley, Jaret Gallops, Trevor Leonard, Cameron Spurlin, I can’t go now enough about those guys and their leadership and the knowledge they have.”
Wetumpka exploded for 23 points in the third quarter as it rolled rival Stanhope Elmore, 62-49, Friday at home. Tied 22-22 at halftime, the Indians (3-1, 1-0) surpassed its first half point total in the third period en route to outscoring the Mustangs (3-2, 0-2) 40-27 in the second half. “We’ve got to start that intensity in the beginning, we can’t afford to let a good team got out on us like that,” WHS coach Ed Rogers said. “They have improved tremendously, and our guys were able to step up to the challenge.” WHS senior forward Courtland Holloway led all scorers with 20 points, 12 coming in the second half. Senior combo guard Antonio George turned in 13, recording eight after the break. For Stanhope’s turnaround this season, Rogers credited 6-foot-5 Zech Byrd, who’s dropped 18 points to keep the Mustangs in the Class 6A,
W I L EA’s Green helps East beat West in All-Star game D C A T S BY CORY DIAZ Sports Editor
Daniel Green scored two touchdowns to help the East hold off the West, 3627, in the annual AISA AllStar Football Game Friday night at Cramton Bowl. The senior wide receiver became the second Edgewood Academy All-Star in a row to earn the East’s Most Outstanding Offensive Back Award (Josh Crawford). “I’ve got to give all the glory to God,” Green said. “He gave the ability to do this and put everything to him.” EA featured five players, including Austin Barnett, Kelvin Lucky and Michael Taylor on the defensive
side of the ball. With the East trailing, 7-6, with 22 seconds to go before halftime, Green hauled in a 50-yard touchdown pass from Edgewood quarterback Nathan Rourke to give his team a 12-7 lead at the break. Connecting with a familiar receiver for his lone touchdown of the game, Rourke said the pitch-andcatch almost never happened. “We were on different groups on offense. One of our guys got hurt so he ended up being in on that play,” Rourke said. “I think me and Kelvin (Lucky) get enough attention and I think there’s some players on our team, especially Daniel who de-
serve more attention because he’s an amazing player. He’s truly the best teammate I’ve ever played with. It was really great for him with all these players to get that. I’m just happy for him that he got it and he played so well today.” Green capped the opening drive of the second half, breaking a couple of tackles and racing to the end zone on a 22-yard score with 8:06 third-quarter mark, putting the East ahead, 207. “I’m trying to do my thing. The quarterback gave me a good ball, can’t ask for nothing more than that,” said Green, who wants to play at the next level. “I just did what I could when I got the ball,
do my best.” The West rallied, notching the game’s next two touchdowns, and retook the lead, 21-20, heading into the fourth. Rourke turned in his highlight on the ensuing drive on a 60-yard reception, where he juked and broke multiple tackles before being stopped at the West 14-yard line. “We thought maybe we could get it. I’m just a little disappointed that guy caught me, I wanted to score on that,” Rourke said. “Pretty special play, the impact and timing was crucial.” See photos and more on the game at www.thewetumpkaherald.com.
Area 4 contest. “Everybody (guarded him). We couldn’t stop him,” Rogers said. “We put pressure on the ball and didn’t allow him to get it. Then, coach Taylor decided to put him on the point. When he got tired, he got in foul trouble, and I think that’s when started to make that run when he was on the bench. It was a team effort.” Stanhope came out “red hot,” but Wetumpka’s biggest push came from its bench. Sophomore guard Kavosiey Smoke dropped eight points, while senior forward Cody Jones added five. “I’m still trying to find that right mixture because we have about 10 guys that can play. To get a good win, and a rivalry win, I’ll take it,” Rogers said. “Stanhope has really opened people’s eyes with the combinations that they have. They’ve got size and speed, they really push the ball. (Byrd) improved his game a whole lot. If coach decides to ride that kid, they’re going to upset somebody.”
• Reggie Gee • Edgewood Academy • Scored 34 points, pulled down 15 rebounds and dished out seven assists in EA’s 80-63 win over Eastwood Academy.
Athlete of the Week Reggie Gee Edgewood Academy Recognizing Our Best!
www.asecu.org • 334-514-6050