Jan. 9, 2019 The Eclectic Observer

Page 1

LOCAL, 3

SPORTS, 9

OPINION, 4

Area celebrates 2019 with City of Wetumpka fireworks show

Teams look at area play as ‘new season’

Read Steve Flowers’ ‘Inside the Statehouse’

Eclectic Observer The

WEDNESDAY • JANUARY 9, 2019

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

Vol. 30, No. 2

Schools get low B Elmore County schools earn score of 82 on statewide report cards By AMALIA KORTRIGHT Bureau Chief

According to the results of the annual statewide report card released by the Alabama Department of Education, most public schools in Elmore County have improved over the past couple of years. Elmore County Public Schools Superintendent Richard Dennis said he is proud of what faculty, staff and the more than 11,000 students in the system have accomplished. “I’m excited to see us trending upward,” Dennis said. “It’s very promising.” Overall, the Elmore County Public Schools System received a score of 82 for the 2017-18 academic year, which is slightly above the state’s average score of 80. The scores were determined by each school’s academic achievement and academic growth. For students in elementary and middle schools, academic achievement was defined by standardized test scores for reading and math, Alabama Alternate Assessments administered to students with cognitive disabilities and student participation. Academic growth was determined by Scantron test scores. For high school students, academic achievement was defined by ACT scores from juniors, assessment grades from sophomores and student participation rates. Academic growth was determined by ACT ASPIRE grades from sophomores and ACT scores from juniors. The majority of schools in Elmore County improved between the 2016-17 and 2017-18 academic years. Holtville High School, Millbrook Middle School, Airport Road Intermediate School and Wetumpka Elementary School each improved their score from a C to a B. See GRADE • Page 2

Amalia Kortright / The Observer

The clearance rate for crimes handled by the Elmore County Sheriff’s Office in 2018 is more than double the statewide average, according to recent reports.

Above average Sheriff ’s office crime stats beat state averages By AMALIA KORTRIGHT Bureau Chief

T

he Elmore County Sheriff’s Office’s crime and clearance rates for 2018 were well above state averages, according to a report released on Dec. 28. In 2018, Elmore County Sheriff Bill Franklin said 139,289 calls for service or actions were taken by ECSO deputies while out of the office. Because the population in Elmore County is growing, Franklin said the crime rate is increasing along with it. “That is slowly creeping up each year, by about 5,000 to 6,000,” Franklin said. “The county’s (population) is slowly growing. I know back in 1990, we had 49,210. We’re probably bumping about 90,000

right now.” Of the 1,244 crimes handled by the ECSO, Franklin said 802 are considered solved. The ECSO’s overall crime clearance rate is 64 percent, compared to an average of 24 percent from all law enforcement agencies in the state. “What we try to do as an investigative unit is strongly encourage that (deputies) stay above the statewide average,” Franklin said. Franklin said the results were the best he has seen during his tenure and attributed the ECSO’s success to the work of its employees in all positions and support from outside entities. “These good numbers that we’ve got can be attributed to everything from the dispatcher doing their job collecting all the data that they can on the calls they receive to the patrol deputy that actually See CRIME • Page 2

Eclectic Fire Department battles Central Avenue blaze By AMALIA KORTRIGHT Bureau Chief

Today’s

Weather

53 31 High

Submitted / The Observer

Firefighters from five local departments worked to put out a fire on Central Avenue in Eclectic on Dec. 30.

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Firefighters put out a blaze at an Eclectic building during the early hours of Dec. 30. Shortly after midnight, firefighters arrived at the 100 block of Central Avenue to find a fully formed structure fire. According to the Eclectic Fire Department, the fire was in danger of spreading to nearby structures. The EFD arrived first, and the Friendship, Kowaliga, Red Hill and Tallassee fire departments were called to provide manpower and extra water. Within 15 minutes, the firefighters said they got the fire under control and searched the building twice to make sure it was unoccupied. No injuries or deaths were reported. The cause of the fire is currently unknown and is under investigation by the EFD.

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Elmore Public Schools received an overall score of 82 from the Alabama Department of Education for the 2017-18 academic year.

Grade

continued from Page 1

Redland Elementary School’s score, which decreased by two points, remained the highest in the county at 88. “They’re still at the top and in a very good position,” Dennis said. “On the academic side, Redland has the leading grades.” Dennis credited the acrossthe-board improvements to an increased emphasis on classroom instruction. “The instructional aspect has been and will be the most significant way in which we’ve improved,” Dennis said. Dennis also said Elmore

County has come up with ways to track how well students perform in certain subjects. “In high schools, we’ve come up with benchmarks,” Dennis said. “A lot of people are upset about it but it’s a great way to monitor academic growth.” In elementary schools, Dennis said the implementation of the Wholesale Reading Program has been successful. Dennis said several software programs have also helped improve the performance of students who have struggled in certain areas. While he is proud of what was accomplished during the

Crime

year, Dennis said he recognizes the system still has room for improvement. “I want us to celebrate but I don’t want us to get too confident,” Dennis said. Dennis commended the teachers and students who made the improvements happen. “What I’ve expressed to my principals is for them to share the accolades with the teachers who are making it happen and the students who are working hard,” Dennis said. The Elmore County Public Schools System has a budget of $107 million.

continued from Page 1

goes out and works that call and collects the data and does a good narrative,” Franklin said. “They present that to the investigative division, who then goes out in the field and does their best to try to resolve the case. Over the years, we’re hiring better applicants. That’s through the Elmore County Commission working with us on trying to improve our conditions and our salaries.” Franklin said many unresolved cases involve identity theft. “Those cases are on the rise and that is one of the more rampant types of crime that we’re working. It’s gone up significantly in the past five years,” Franklin said. “With the technology out there and people getting very lax about protecting their personal data — anything from their Social Security number to their credit card data — and they’re using it in very bizarre places.” Earlier last year, Franklin said skimmers were discovered at gas pumps in the Elmore area. “Had people just merely paid for cash, we wouldn’t have a victim. But you’d like to think that you could purchase gas without becoming a victim of identity theft,” Franklin said. Franklin said he’s noticed elderly residents are the primary targets for identity theft in the area. “A couple of times a week, I have families that come to my office and I’m trying to coach people who are the son or daughter of grandma or grandpa who are getting taken advantage of,” Franklin said. “They think that there’s a promise of people saying you’re going to win hundreds or thousands of dollars and they’re giving out all this information over the telephone.”

Franklin said the clearance report, which is turned in to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, includes seven categories: homicides, rapes, robberies, aggravated assaults, burglaries, thefts and motor vehicle thefts. In the homicides category, Franklin said murders and attempted murders are included. Franklin said the ECSO solved all 10 homicides it handled in 2018. The state’s average clearance rate is 65 percent. A total of 19 rapes were worked by the ECSO during the past year and 18 were solved, Franklin said. The statewide clearance rate for rapes is 42 percent. Franklin said the ECSO cleared 12 of 13 robberies and the statewide average is 34 percent. The ECSO solved 466 of 546 incidents involving aggravated assaults, representing 85 percent clearance, nearly double the statewide average of 40 percent. In burglaries, 235 cases were handled by the ECSO and 90 yielded arrests, which is 38 percent and more than double the statewide average of 15 percent. The ECSO solved 186 of 389 thefts, Franklin said, which at 48 percent clearance is double the statewide average of 23 percent. Lastly, the ECSO solved 20 of 32 motor vehicle theft cases for a clearance rate of 63 percent. The statewide average was 27 percent. While drug-related crimes were not among the categories in the report, Franklin said deputies have made 89 drug arrests over the past 45 working days. “That’s everything from somebody finding a small amount of marijuana to cocaine, to heroin, to trafficking drugs, to unlawful distributions,” Franklin said.

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JANUARY 9, 2019 • PAGE 3

Amalia Kortright / The Observer

Above: Fireworks lit up the sky for the first 15 minutes of 2019. Because the Christmas on the Coosa fireworks show was postponed due to weather, both that and the New Year’s Eve show were combined. Below: Boy Scout Watson Perdue simulates lighting the Eternal Flame, a monument at the Arlington National Ceremony, in honor of local soldiers listed as prisoners of war or missing in action.

Area celebrates 2019 at Wetumpka’s celebration By AMALIA KORTRIGHT Bureau Chief

Despite a light downpour and the threat of more rain, dozens of locals gathered in downtown Wetumpka on New Year’s Eve to ring in the beginning of 2019. According to organizer Gardner Perdue, Wetumpka’s annual New Year’s Eve festivities were started by resident Jack DeVenney and have been held for more than three decades. “Jack believed in giving back to his community, so he started many activities in Wetumpka. One of these was the New Year’s Eve celebration,� Perdue said. The events began at 9 p.m. with a ceremony in front of the Elmore County Courthouse for local soldiers who were last listed as prisoners of war or missing in action. Perdue said DeVenney was a Navy veteran and felt veterans should be honored on every occasion. “If it weren’t for the veterans, we wouldn’t be able to celebrate New Year’s Eve in the way that we do,� Perdue said. During the ceremony, Prattville veteran Lt. Col. Mary Tatum told onlookers being a female soldier in the 1970s came with a unique set of challenges but it was worth it. “Who would not put

their uniforms back on right now if we really needed to?� Tatum said. “We would do it in a heartbeat because it’s always in us, the pride and the passion.� Live music was initially scheduled to take place outside, behind the city’s administrative building, but was relocated to the Wetumpka Civic Center. This year, the music was provided by local DJ Shawn “G-Rivers� Singleton. At 11:59 p.m., locals counted down to midnight by watching a “meteor� made of fireworks drop at Gold Star Park. The “meteor strike� was followed by a 15-minute fireworks show. “It (was) the best fireworks show that anybody will see in Wetumpka tonight,� Perdue said. The fireworks were shot from both sides of the Coosa River. Because the city’s Christmas on the Coosa fireworks show was postponed, it was combined with the show on New Year’s. Perdue said the “meteor strike,� has been a tradition in the city since the early 2000s and was established to celebrate the area’s geography and history. “Wetumpka was formed by a meteor about 85 million years ago,� Perdue said. “Because of that, Jack

DeVenney thought that would be a great thing to have as a ball drop. In 2006, he got the Elmore County Technical Center to build the first (meteor).� Wetumpka resident

Jack McDaniel said he has attended the events with his family for almost two decades. “I’ve been here when it’s cold and I’ve been here when it’s warm, like tonight,� McDaniel said.

“It’s a tradition.� McDaniel said watch-

ing the “meteor strike,� was one of the things that made New Year’s in Wetumpka stand out. “It’s unique,� McDaniel said. “Where else do you know that you live where an asteroid hit? Several million years ago, we went ‘kaboom’ and got a bunch of dead dinosaurs.� While there have been mishaps in the past, McDaniel said this year’s fireworks show went off without a hitch. “Clearly, it brings us together on New Year’s Eve,� McDaniel said. “I thought it was fantastic. I saw no mistakes. It was perfect.�

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Steve Baker, Publisher Jimmy Wigfield, 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.

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Kenneth Boone Chairman kenneth.boone@alexcityoutlook.com Steve Baker Publisher, 256-414-3190 steve.baker@alexcityoutlook.com Angela Mullins Business Manager, 256-414-3191 angela.mullins@alexcityoutlook.com Jimmy Wigfield Managing Editor, 256-414-3179 jimmy.wigfield@alexcityoutlook.com Tippy Hunter Advertising Director, 256-414-3177 marketing@alexcityoutlook.com Audra Spears Art Director, 256-414-3189 audra.spears@alexcityoutlook.com Betsy Iler Magazine Managing Editor, 256-234-4282 betsy.iler@alexcityoutlook.com Erin Burton Circulation Manager, 256-234-7779 erin.burton@alexcityoutlook.com Lee Champion Production Manager, 256-414-3017 lee.champion@alexcityoutlook.com Newsroom Amalia Kortright Bureau Chief & Staff Writer, 334-350-3919 amalia.kortright@thewetumpkaherald.com Santana Wood Design Editor, 256-234-3412 santana.wood@thewetumpkaherlad.com Lizi Arbogast Sports Editor, 256-414-3180 lizi.arbogast@thewetumpkaherald.com Caleb Turrentine Sports Writer, 334-350-3922 caleb.turrentine@thewetumpkaherald.com Advertising Sales Marilyn Hawkins Sales Manager, 334-350-3917 marilyn.hawkins@thewetumpkaherald.com Shannon Filyaw Marketing Consultant, 334-444-8981 shannon.filyaw@tallasseetribune.com

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Alabama congressmen were once truly liberal

R

ecently, I came across a copy of an old congressional directory from 1942. It is always fun for me to read about this era in American political history. Franklin Delano Roosevelt had been first elected in 1932 in the depths of the Great Depression. He would go on to be reelected in 1936, 1940 and 1944 and would have been reelected into perpetuity. However, he died in Warm Springs, Georgia, in April 1945, only four months into his fourth term. He was the closest thing we Americans have ever had to a king. Nobody has or ever will serve four terms as president; after FDR’s omnipotent reign, the U.S. Constitution was changed to limit our presidents to two four-year terms. Roosevelt brought the country out of the Great Depression with his New Deal. However, he did not do it alone. He worked closely with a Democratic Congress and they congruently changed the nation and its government. Our Alabama delegation was an integral part of that transformation, as it was seniority-laden and very much New Dealers. A cursory perusal of Tom Brokaw’s book “The Greatest Generation” reveals a standard prerequisite for being successful in politics in Alabama during that time was to have been a military veteran. All of our congressmen had been veterans of World War I, unless they were too old to have served. In the 1940s, we had nine congressmen, whereas today we have seven. All nine were men and all were Democrats. Today, we have

STEVE FLOWERS Columnistt six Republicans and one token Democrat. There are several differences in our delegation on the Potomac today and our group of gentlemen congressmen of over 70 years ago. Obviously, their partisan badges have changed, as have Alabamians’. Another observation is the tremendous difference in power and seniority of the 1940s group versus our group today. Of that group of men, which included Frank Boykin, George Grant, Henry Steagall, Sam Hobbs, Joe Starnes, Pete Jarman, and John Sparkman, many had been in Congress for decades and wielded significant influence. Indeed, from the mid 1940s through 1964, ours was one of the most powerful delegations in the nation’s capital. They had risen to power through their seniority and their allegiance to Roosevelt’s New Deal policies. Steagall, from Ozark in the Third Congressional District, was chairman of the prestigious banking committee. He was instrumental in the passage of much of FDR’s New Deal banking laws which were revamped in the wake of the collapse of America’s banks in 1929 and the subsequent Great Depression. He was the sponsor of the Glass-Steagall Banking Act, which was a lynchpin foundation of FDR’s Banking Resurrection Plan coming out of the Great Depression.

One of the monumental differences in that era’s delegation and today’s is their philosophical voting records. As mentioned, that group of men were witnesses to and participants of the Great Depression. Every one of them had been born in the late 1800s, therefore they were in the prime of life when the Great Depression struck. They witnessed the devastation of the country. These men voted lockstep with FDR’s liberal agenda to transform America. Given this partisan progressive loyalty to FDR and the New Deal, this delegation’s voting record was one of the most liberal in the nation. Because of their loyalty to FDR’s programs, coupled with this group’s seniority, no state benefited from the New Deal agenda more than Alabama. Through the Works Progress Administration and the creation of the Tennessee Valley Authority, Alabama progressed. The Tennessee Valley of north Alabama was especially transformed. Later, Sparkman would create the Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, which made that Alabama city one of the most prosperous and progressive areas of the country. To the contrary, our delegation today is one of the most conservative in America. It was a different era. Steve Flowers’ weekly column appears in over 60 Alabama newspapers. He served 16 years in the Alabama Legislature. Flowers may be reached at www. steveflowers.us.

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Little will change in Washington

T

he Republicans couldn’t do it when they controlled Congress and the White House. OK, “controlled” may be overstating any kind of management in Washington, D.C. Now, the House has a majority of Democrats, meaning the speaker and all committee chairs are Democrats who set their own agendas. Pundits and politicians are predicting what changes we’ll see and how those changes will affect America and the world. Will President Trump change how he acts and communicates? No. Will he change his mind when trying to make deals with Congress? Yes. Those who make deals change their minds and their bargaining chips fluidly. Will the changes in the House affect Congress’ ability to pass bills? The answer really depends more on Trump’s willingness to deal with Democrats in the House who, so far, have directed all their promises against all things Trump. Republicans picked up two more seats in the Senate for a majority of 53 senators. The Senate is likely to continue approving Trump’s judicial and cabinet nominations, and generally align with Trump’s policies. Thus, the Senate will be a “wall” protecting Trump from any House legislation attacking him personally. Nevertheless, the bureaucracy remains as swampy as ever, particularly in the upper echelons of

DANIEL GARDNER Columnist the Department of Justice and the various intelligence agencies. Make no mistake: the bureaucracy holds the real power in Washington. Special interest groups buy, sell and trade legislation as well as rules and regulations inside the bureaucracy. The biggest change is likely to be louder, expletive-laced and angrier rhetoric from the left. After all, the show must go on! New faces in the House have already stooped to new lows publicly, much to the delight of ratings-starved media. Game on! How low will they go? Regardless, they’ll all justify their expletives and hate with adolescent rejoinders of “Trump started it!” Very mature! We will probably see no real differences coming out of Washington between now and 2020. But we will see a lot more sound and fury as well as smoke and mirrors playing out in national media. What about foreign relations? America is in a much stronger position economically and militarily than any of our allies or enemies. Neither our allies nor our enemies like us as much as they

did under the previous administration but they respect our power much more now that we have an administration focused on making America economically stronger and less interested in solving other nations’ problems at our own expense. The world will rock on for the next two years with other nations trying to project power over vulnerable and unstable territories. The usual suspects — Russia, China, Iran and North Korea — will see how close they can fly to America’s flame without getting burned. Islamic jihad will continue to grow and spread across Europe and hotspots of the world. America will likely see isolated Islamic terrorist attacks. Domestic violence in America will likely increase as a byproduct of what everybody agrees is really bad immigration law. Unless we see another 911type event in America, most Americans will continue to experience the ups and downs as well as good things and bad things that come with being human. Washington’s shenanigans will likely not adversely affect any of us except those who obsess about Washington shenanigans. Daniel L. Gardner is a syndicated columnist who lives in Starkville, Mississippi. You may contact him at PJandMe2@gmail. com or interact with him on the Clarion-Ledger website www.clarionledger.com/story/opinion

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CommunityCalendar Wednesday, Jan. 9

• Wetumpka Line Dance is set to start its spring season at A Chance to Dance, located at 68 Queen Ann Road. Call 334552-2040 for more information. • The Eclectic Girls Club will meet at the Eclectic First Baptist Church at 11 a.m. It will be a potluck lunch, so please bring a dish to share and bring a friend. Call 34-306-0929 for more information.

Friday, Jan. 11

• Illusionists David and Jenny from America’s Got Talent will perform at Wetumpka High School from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Join us for an amazing show, featuring Vegas-style illusions, hilarious comedy and audience participation to help

support the Wetumpka High School Theatre Program. David and Jenny were featured on Season Eight of “America’s Got Talent,” where over 10 million people across the nation watched and voted. Now, it is your turn to see them live in action as they bring their show to the Wetumpka High School Auditorium.

Saturday, Jan. 12

• Haunted Investigations at the Wetumpka Area Chamber of Commerce building will resume at 7 p.m. Go on an authentic, in-depth, five-hour paranormal investigation of the most haunted building in Wetumpka! Use specialized equipment to locate the many spirits inside the chamber’s

building who make their presence known! Spend time in the basement with moving objects, disembodied voices, and responses to knocks or taps. Roam the unused third floor of the building where the haunted scarecrow resides and moves from room to room. Each and every room has a story that’s dying to be told.

Tuesday, Jan. 15

• Chris Eiland and the Hired Guns will be performing at Coaches Corner Bar and Grill from 6 to 9 p.m.

Sunday, Jan. 20

• The third annual Bridal Extravaganza will be held at Wetumpka’s Jasmine Hill Gardens and Outdoor Museum from 1 to 4 p.m. Come out and

Psychological exam ordered for murder suspect

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and Observer by calling 256-234-4281, faxing them to 256-2346550, sending your event to the.editor@thewetumpkaherald.com or logging on to http://www.thewetumpkaherald.com/. pitfalls of codependency in your recovery.

enjoy an afternoon of wedding planning and ideas, mix and mingle with top quality wedding professionals and discover the best options to make your dream wedding come true.

Thursday, Jan. 24

Wednesday, Jan. 23

• “Codependency: Beware the Pitfalls in Recovery” by the Council on Substance Abuse will take place from 6 to 8 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church of Wetumpka. Recovery from addiction is difficult, but when codependency and addiction occur together,r it makes the recovery process even more challenging. This free workshop will help you learn the relationship between codependency and addiction and provide information on how to avoid the

• FOWL Presents Historian Jim Phillips location Wetumpka Public Library time 6 to 8p.m. Come join the presentation, geared to honor Alabama’s bicentennial (1819-2019) We will view a great video of amazing places and lost sites in Alabama, with a focus on antebellum ghost towns, lost and found antebellum treasures, antebellum riverboat and stagecoach travel the 1800 patent medicines, etc. Mr. Phillips will bring with him a table museum of antebellum bottles, coins, maps and drawings. This meeting is open and free to the public.

Pet of the Week – Heinze

H

einze is a 45-pound, 7-month old male mix. This happy, energetic boy is a goofy sweetheart. When he was found as a stray, the finders discovered that he would not stay in a fence. It could be that he was trying to find his way home or maybe just needs some way to use up that energy. Heinze would love a family with energy to match his. He is great with other dogs. Shelter adoption fees are $100 for dogs and $50 for cats under 1 year old. Cats over 1 year old can be adopted by approved adopters for a fee of their choosing. This adoption fee completely covers the mandatory spay or neuter, basic immunizations, de-worming, microchip, heartworm check for dogs, rabies vaccination if old enough and a free health exam with a participating veterinarian. To meet Heinze and the other pets at the shelter, visit 255 Central Plank Road in Wetumpka. For more information, visit www. elmorehumane.org for more information, email hselco@bellsouth.net or call 334-567-3377. The shelter is open for adoptions Monday through Friday between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. and Saturday between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.

By AMALIA KORTRIGHT Bureau Chief

A Deatsville murder suspect was recently ordered to undergo a psychological evaluation by Elmore County Circuit Court Judge Bill Lewis to determine if he is fit to stand trial. According to court documents, David Arnold Helms II, 42, was ordered to meet with a certified forensic examiner appointed by the Alabama Department of Mental Health and Mental Retardation. Criminal proceedings against Helms were suspended until the court receives a report from the department. After the examination is conducted, court documents state the examiner will provide a report to Helms’ attorney and the district attorney citing his or her opinion on Helms’ ability to understand the nature of the proceedings against him and his ability to assist his attorney in his defense. If the examiner says Helms is Helms unable to comprehend the proceedings or assist in his defense, court documents state the examiner will provide an opinion about the cause of the inability, matters related to any treatment required for Helms to gain competency and Helms’ mental state at the time of the alleged offense. Helms, who lists an address on Lakehaven Circle, was initially arrested by the Elmore County Sheriff’s Office on June 5, 2017, and charged with murder after Sheriff Bill Franklin said he fatally strangled Jane Huddleston, 52, of Wetumpka, whom she had been staying with. Franklin said Huddleston’s body was found in a well on her property and she had been missing for several days. After he was booked into the Elmore County jail, Franklin said Helms damaged an interior window and was charged with second-degree escape and third-degree criminal mischief. The order for a psychological evaluation came after Helms’ attorney, Jonathan H. Stokes, filed a motion requesting the examination on his client’s behalf. In the motion, Stokes claimed Helms did not have health insurance, which rendered Helms unable to undergo any examination of his mental status. Stokes also wrote he is unable to present any medical records pertaining to Helms’ mental health to the court. Since his arrest, Helms has been held at the Elmore County jail on bonds totaling $133,000. Murder is a Class A felony, which can carry a maximum sentence of life in prison upon conviction.

JANUARY 9, 2019 • PAGE 5

Cord offers advice on raising horses By REA CORD HSEC Executive Director

Let’s talk horses. Calls about horses always increase in the winter when pastures are brown and neglected horses become more noticeable to passersby. While many horses can do fine during the summer on good pasture alone, their food must be supplemented in the winter when there is no more grass. If you are unsure, please consult your large animal veterinarian but most horses need a grain or pellet feed and hay diet when there is no grass. Supplemental feeds not only keep your horse(s) healthy, but will also keep them warmer in the cold weather. It is important that your horse be fed the appropriate feed for its needs. Some horses may do fine on a simple sweet feed while others may need a senior or special formulation to give them what they need. If you are unsure what your horse needs, consult your veterinarian, talk to the folks at your local feed mill, call your area extension office, call a local stable, ask fellow horse owners, get on the internet, check out some books or give us a call at 334-567-3377 as we do have staff that are knowledgeable about horses. One excuse that does not fly about a horse that is horribly thin is that it is “old!” Old horses that are fed correctly for their nutritional needs will maintain a generally healthy weight and condition. There is,

however, a lot more to maintaining an old horse, or any horse for that matter, than just grain and hay. The first and simplest thing every horse owner must do is to routinely de-worm your horse(s). De-worming may be the single most important reason why today’s horses live so much longer and it is easy and relatively cheap – just talk to your vet or any of those sources noted above. One thing many owners do not know is that as horses age, they develop very sharp points on their teeth that can cause them pain and problems properly chewing their food. This is easily remedied by having your veterinarian “float” your horse’s teeth. Floating or filing can be done on the farm and for many horses should be done at least once per year and can make an amazing improvement in their physical condition. Horses also consume a LOT of water and may actually need more in the winter so should have clean and unfrozen water available at all times. There are inexpensive floats and “in-tank” water heaters to keep water tanks full and unfrozen at all times – just ask your local feed store. Should horses have shelter to get out of the elements if they want – well, yes, we think so, but it is sadly not required by law here in Alabama. You don’t have to go broke building a fancy barn, however, to help your horse – a three-sided runin shed where a horse can be shielded from the wind and/or

rain can go a long way to helping a horse stay healthy and relatively comfortable in bad weather. Fancy is a term for us humans; functional is all a horse (or any other livestock) cares about. Blanketing horses in inclement weather is sometimes a good thing, but not always necessary. Older or infirmed horses may need blanketing in bad weather to help them maintain their body temperature but healthy horses with good winter coats are likely to be just fine in Alabama winters without blanketing. For owners who do blanket, however, it is essential that those blankets be removed and dried out routinely and the horse brushed out to make sure they aren’t wearing a wet blanket or to check that the blanket is not rubbing/chafing the horse anywhere. If you suspect a horse is being neglected or treated cruelly please contact the Elmore County Sheriff’s Department at 334-567-5227 so they can investigate. They will contact us for assistance if necessary and we are glad to help them. Many horse owners are sadly ignorant as to what owning a horse entails and may need guidance to help them do right by their horse(s) so please direct them to the sources above for information. But if they don’t seem receptive or are blatantly ignoring their horse’s needs, then please report the situation to law enforcement so that they can either be educated or dealt with under our state cruelty/neglect laws.

1 OUT OF 10

ELDERLY PERSONS AND ADULTS WITH DISABILITIES ARE BEING:

Abused, Neglected or Exploited If you suspect this is happening to someone you know, please report it to Adult Protective Services by contacting your local DHR office or calling the

ALABAMA IS #1 IN THE NATION FOR PRESCRIBED OPIOIDS. THIS IS NOT A NATIONAL TITLE WORTH KEEPING.

ADULT ABUSE HOTLINE at 1-800-458-7214

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IF YOU SEE IT, REPORT IT

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“This project was supported by Subgrant #16-VA-VS-076 awarded by the Law Enforcement / Traffic Safety Division of ADECA and the U.S. Department of Justice.” The opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this publication/program/exhibition are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Department of Justice or grant-making component.”

UNCLES NEIGHBORS COUSINS NEPHEWS FIRST

24/7 Helpline 844-307-1760 COURAGEFORALL.COM a message of the Alabama Department of Mental Health

PAGE 6 • JANUARY 9, 2019

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER

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Lake & River Phone (256) 277-4219 Fax (205) 669-4217 The Alexander City Outlook

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

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classiďŹ eds@alexcityoutlook.com public.notices@alexcityoutlook.com classiďŹ eds@thewetumpkaherald.com public.notices@thewetumpkaherald.com

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Job Opportunities WARRIOR MET COAL NOW HIRING Located in Brookwood, AL Immediate need for experienced: ‡8QGHUJURXQG 0LQHUV ‡(OHFWULFLDQV ‡0DLQWHQDQFH )RUHPDQ ‡6XSHUYLVRUV $SSO\ RQOLQH ZZZ ZDUULRUPHWFRDO FRP

The Tallapoosa County Revenue Commission is taking applications for Appraiser Trainee Apply at the Tallapoosa &RXQW\ &RPPLVVLRQ 2IÂżFH in Dadeville. Deadline January 16, 2019 Tallapoosa County is an EOE

Now Hiring Heavy Equipment Operators and CDL Drivers Competitive pay and EHQHÂżWV 3UH HPSOR\PHQW GUXJ WHVW UHTXLUHG Equal Employment 2SSRUWXQLW\ (PSOR\Hr Call: 205-298-6799 or email us at: jtate@forestryenv.com

White Oak Transportation

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Birmingham,AL based Transportation Company looking for Class-A CDL-Drivers ‡$YHUDJH PLOHV ZN ‡0XVW EH DW OHDVW \UV ROG ‡6WDUWLQJ SD\ DW PLOH LQFUHDVH WR LQ PRQWKV ‡ PRQWKV GULYLQJ H[S &DOO ([W RU (PDLO UHFUXLWLQJ#FKXUFKWUDQVSRUWDWLRQ QHW

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Now Hiring for Full-Time Manufacturing Positions in the Alexander City Area. All Shifts Available. Overtime & some Saturdays may be required. Pay rates start at $9.00/hr & increase depending on the company. Your choice of two Health Insurance Plans available. Must pass drug screen & client background requirements. Apply in person at: 207 South Central Avenue Alexander City, AL 35010 or Online at www.asapply-ag.com

DRIVERS Hanna Truck Lines is seeking Professional Flatbed Drivers. 56 cpm-No surprises: Starting pay (all miles): 54cpm, 55cpm at 6 months, 56cpm at 1 year. 100% Outbound loads Pre-loaded & Tarped. 75% Inbound No Tarp. Late Model Peterbilt Trucks. AirRide Trailers. Home weekends. Low cost BCBS Health/Dental Ins. 0DWFKLQJ . 4XDOL¿FDWLRQV 18 months Class A CDL driving H[SHULHQFH ZLWK PRV ÀDWEHG Applicants must meet all D.O.T. requirements. Contact recruiting at 1-800-634-7315 RU FRPH E\ +7/ RI¿FH DW 1700 Boone Blvd, Northport. EOE

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The Learning Tree, Inc. is Accepting Applications for 2nd, 3rd and Weekend shifts for Direct Care Applications can be picked up at: 101 S. Dubois Street Tallassee, AL 36078 Or contact Shatia Carr (334)252-0025 Ext. 101 Email: Scarr@learning-tree.org

The Wetumpka Herald

PUZZLES & HOROSCOPE ARIES (March 21-April 19) If you can lie low, you might get a kick out of watching a group of friends as they decide to reverse course. The reactions they give might be unbelievable. Be smart and observe. Try to minimize any comments, and watch an issue work itself out. Tonight: Not to be found. TAURUS (April 20-May 20) You have taken on an inordinate amount of responsibilities. Sometime around midday, you can relax and not be so concerned with each detail or issue that pops up. You might get feedback that allows you to feel good about a sequence of sudden changes. Tonight: Hang with the crowd. GEMINI (May 21-June 20) Make long-distance calls in the morning, before your schedule becomes too hectic. You will want to mull over a recent insight. You could be stunned by how a friend sees his or her universe. In the afternoon, decide to take the lead. Tonight: Invite friends to join you for a break. CANCER (June 21-July 22) Listen to what is being shared by a boss. You might witness the reversal of what was just suggested. Try to unearth the fundamental issue that this person must deal with. Happiness surrounds those who are more open and authentic. Tonight: Love the one you’re with. LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) Your popularity soars, and you might have more choices than you’d like to have. Maintain a sense of humor when trying to make plans with someone at a distance or when listening to a friend’s change of mind. Feelings come out between you and a loved one. Tonight: Out late. VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) Tackle what you must immediately in the morning. Distractions seem to appear from out of nowhere in the evening. If you have been eɉcient and organized, you can be a little indulgent with your schedule. You might meet someone of interest. Tonight: Accept an invitation to go out.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) Take oɈ to spend time with a loved one. This person will appreciate you and your eɈorts. You will be in a more chipper mood when you get to work. You could be surprised by a partner’s reaction in the afternoon. Immerse yourself in your work. Tonight: Don’t push. SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) Getting going could be quite challenging. Instead of Ă„ghting city hall, why not enjoy a leisurely morning? The afternoon demands your creativity. Are you aware that you have an admirer? If you look around, you might realize who this person is. Tonight: Paint the town red. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) Make calls in the morning. You will receive a positive response. Now might be the time to bring up a diɉcult topic. On the other hand, you could decide to enjoy an easy conversation. In the afternoon, you’ll recognize that a problem must be handled alone. Tonight: Hang close to home. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) Use care with your Ă„nances, as you or someone else is likely to make a mistake. Your caution could prevent a problem from happening. You might be in meetings or brainstorming with one person most of the afternoon. Tonight: Hang out at a favorite spot with loved ones. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) No matter what happens, you seem to be all smiles in the morning. Deal with diɉcult people at that time, as you are more likely to gain their favor then. Financial matters come forward in the afternoon. You cannot avoid dealing with them. Tonight: Pay bills Ă„rst. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20) Whatever ails you in the morning will dissolve later in the day. Give yourself permission to be sluggish in the morning or to sleep in. You will want all of your energy in the afternoon. Someone clearly wants to spend more time with you. Tonight: Choose a favorite stress-buster.

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TheWetumpkaHerald.com

JANUARY 9, 2019 • PAGE 7

Cobb remains in custody, awaiting grand jury By CARMEN RODGERS Staff Writer

A suspect arrested in connection with an armed carjacking late last month remains in the Elmore County jail awaiting a grand jury review which may not occur until the summer, according to the county district attorney’s office. Terrance Cobb, 20, who lists his address as 261 Gerald Robinson Drive in Notasulga, was still in jail Monday and has not requested a preliminary hearing, according to Elmore County District Attorney’s Office prosecutor David Stewart. Stewart said Cobb has already made his initial court appearance, which in his case may have been done electronically because of Cobb the holidays. “Sometimes, the clerk’s office will send someone over to the jail to sign the forms. Sometimes, the judge will get on a webcam and Skype over to the jail if they are not in court,� Stewart said. “During the holidays, it is not that uncommon for that to happen. “The arraignment wouldn’t happen until the case is bound over to the grand jury and that may not happen until maybe this summer.� According to Stewart, the grand jury meets four times a year — January, April, July and October.

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“We have grand jury this week and the April docket is about half full, so I would imagine it will be on the grand jury docket this summer,� Stewart said. Late last week, District Judge James Glenn Goggans set a $250,000 cash bond for Cobb, who was charged with first-degree kidnapping, first-degree robbery, rape, sodomy and discharging a firearm into an occupied vehicle in connection with the abduction of a 68-year-old victim during a carjacking on Dec. 30 in Tallassee, according to Tallassee police chief Matt Higgins. “We handle our part, and we trust the courts to handle their parts, and we always appreciate it when the court system backs us and sets a high bond or no bond for someone who we feel is a danger to the public,� Higgins said. “I hate to use the term ‘happy’ because this isn’t a happy situation but I am happy with the way this turned out between us and the courts.� Goggans set a $60,000 bond each for the rape, sodomy, robbery and kidnapping charges and a $10,000 bond for the firearms charge. The victim, who was recovering in a Montgomery hospital, was due to be released Jan. 3, according to Higgins. Higgins praised TPD Sgt. Genifer Drinkard for working with the victim. “Sergeant Drinkard, who was brought in to work with victims

Notices

of sex crimes and things of that nature, has done an outstanding job on this case,� Higgins said. Officials at Elmore County jail could not confirm or deny if Cobb remained in solitary confinement. Higgins said on New Year’s Eve that Cobb was being held in solitary confinement at the jail because he tried to escape after being taken into custody. “He has been combative and attempted to escape,� Higgins said. Cobb was sleeping when officers found and arrested him at a residence not far from a truck stop where the victim flagged down a police officer for help, Higgins said. Higgins said the suspect stole a car from Victoryland Casino in Shorter Sunday evening and crashed into the victim’s car in Tallassee, leading to the armed carjacking. Within a few hours of the incident, Tallassee police detectives developed a lead on the suspect and, along with Macon County Sheriff’s Office deputies and Alabama Fish and Game officers, executed a search warrant at 2:15 a.m., resulting in Cobb’s arrest, Higgins said. “The suspect was found sleeping when we got there,� Higgins said. Tallassee Mayor Johnny Hammock said authorities caught a break when the suspect used the woman’s cell phone to make a call. “He stole her cell phone,�

Apartments

Hammock said. “They traced back a number that he called from that cell phone and were able to identify him.� Tallassee police were called to the scene of an accident on Alabama Highway 229 on Dec. 30 at about 6:30 p.m. and found a vehicle abandoned off the roadway, Higgins said. “There was no one in the vehicle when we arrived on scene,� Higgins said. “We know the car was taken from the casino. The suspect found the keys to the vehicle and that’s how it was stolen.� Hammock said the suspect passed the woman, clipped her vehicle and caused a wreck in Tallassee. “When he approached the female’s vehicle, she refused to open the door and he fired a round into the vehicle to gain access,� Higgins said. The victim called a family member during the carjacking, which helped police determine she had been abducted, Higgins said. “The victim was on the phone with a family member during the time of the abduction and we were getting separate calls from family members and other witnesses that (the incident) had occurred,� Higgins said. “It was a little chaotic at first but we were able to piece all that together and determine fairly quickly what we’re looking at. At that point, we put out a lookout.� Higgins said the suspect sexually assaulted the woman at an

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undisclosed location and shortly thereafter abandoned her and the car. The victim then drove to the Torch 85 truck stop on County Road 53 in Tuskegee. “At some point, she made her way to the Torch without him,� Higgins said. “He left her behind with the vehicle and that’s when she was able to flag down an officer from Tuskegee.� Higgins said Cobb was arrested within 10 miles of the Torch 85 and credited teamwork among the agencies involved in the case for the quick arrest. “Good detective work, some info from the victim, some other things that we were able to piece together, and, of course, through some things that we do with modern technology, were able to get a suspect, and then talk with the victim and narrow it down and eventually locate a possible address where he was staying,� Higgins said. “Fortunately for us, he was there when we got there.� Higgins believes the original theft at Victoryland Casino in Shorter, 15 miles from Tallassee, was a crime of opportunity. “Of course, he hasn’t given us a statement at this time but we don’t know that it was intentional,� Higgins said. “It looks like a flight from his original crime, (he) had an accident which disabled the vehicle that he was in, which led him to commandeer the vehicle that he collided with, which was still drivable.�

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PAGE 8 • JANUARY 9, 2019

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER

‘Lament: A forgotten response to the pain we experience’ E

vil and pain come in a variety of forms in our life. You or a friend or family member is diagnosed with stage 4 cancer unexpectedly. A child dies in the womb. A spouse is suddenly institutionalized due to some unforeseen mental illness. Suicide shocks a community. Illness of every sort plagues your life every day. You lose your job and financial difficulties ensue. War comes upon a people and you are displaced from your home. On and on and on we could go. Struggle seems to describe the experience of many, and struggle also seems to describe many people’s faith after a life-altering tragedy. I’ve recently been listening to some people within (and outside) Christianity that I would describe as “doubters.” These are people that have a faith in God that they are hanging onto by a very thin thread, and then there are others that have lost their faith altogether after, or during, some dark trial. There are a great variety of reasons why people struggle to believe in God or to trust God, but a primary

reason that emerges most of the time is some intense encounter with pain or evil in their lives. This is where the concept of “lament” enters into the picture. What does it mean to lament? A lament is “a passionate expression of grief or sorrow; it is a complaint.” The Bible is full of laments. The book of Lamentations is one big lament, and the psalms are full of laments. Psalm 44:23-25 gives an example of lament when it says: “23 Awake! Why are you sleeping, O Lord? Rouse yourself! Do not reject us forever! 24 Why do you hide your face? Why do you forget our affliction and oppression? 25 For our soul is bowed down to the dust; our belly clings to the ground. “ A lament asks, “Where is God?” or, better yet, addresses God and asks, “Where are YOU, God? I’m hurting. I’m struggling. I need Your help. Where are You, God?” Given that there are many that come away with a frac-

BILLY REINHARDT Columnistt

tured faith or with no faith after trials, I wonder if we taught people to “lament” more that we would be able to better “connect “ with God during our pain? It’s easy to see where church services and, possibly, those within the church might seem distant to one who is hurting because we, maybe unintentionally, give this air that we “have it all together” or that “we have all the answers.” When someone is going through great pain and deep darkness, they often don’t have it all together and they have no answers. A proper response would be to weep with those who weep (Romans 12:15) and to help them lament. One musical artist, in 2012, put this comment online: “Approximately 70 percent of the Psalms are laments. Approximately 0 percent of the top 150 CCLI songs

are laments (songs sung in churches).” If this is still currently true, then what does this do for those who are experiencing unimaginably difficult circumstances? I heard one Christian artist say, in response to contemporary Christian music, that, “Life is not always positive and encouraging.” Yes indeed. If we gave people permission to lament more in our church services, if we wrote songs that expressed lament, if we went through the bible passages on lament more often, would we find ourselves not only healthier and more whole, spiritually-speaking, but would we also find less “faith-carnage” after a trial or tragedy? If we knew that it was allowed and permissible to express our pain to each other, and most importantly to God, would those who are hurting find more support and remain in the church rather than leave it? Can we, in the church, bring ourselves to the place of admitting that there are unanswered questions and that life is not always so “neat and tidy”? Wouldn’t it be good and proper to create

spaces in our lives, in others’ lives, to simply pour out our (their) complaint before God? Do we focus on the “good and blessed life” to a fault where we make those who are going through pain feel estranged, unnecessarily, from the Christian community and, even, from God? May we learn to say with the psalmist: “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from saving me, from the words of my groaning? 2 O my God, I cry by day, but you do not answer, and by night, but I find no rest.” And, by God’s grace, may we also find the strength to say with the author of the book of Lamentations: “21 But this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope: 22 The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; 23 they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.24 ‘The Lord is my portion,’ says my soul, ‘therefore I will hope in him.’” Billy Reinhardt is pastor at Riverside Heights Baptist Church and a regular faith columnist for The Observer.

Area Churches AME ZION Mt. Zion Chapel AME Zion 2340 Crenshaw Rd., Wetumpka 5674413 Rogers Chapel AME Zion 709 W. Bridge St., Wetumpka 567-8144 Jackson Chapel AME Zion 4885 Coosada Rd., Coosada Jones Chapel AME Zion 2414 Ingram Rd. (Co. Rd. 3), Elmore ABUNDANT LIFE Abundant Life Church 9301 U.S. Hwy 231., Wetumpka 5679143 ASSEMBLY OF GOD Agape Tabernacle Assembly of God 1076 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic 541-2006 Bethel Worship Center 11117 U.S. Hwy 231., Wetumpka 5675754 Crossroads Assembly of God 2534 AL Hwy 14., Millbrook 285-5545 First Assembly of God 3511 Shirley Ln., Millbrook New Home Assembly of God 5620 Caesarville Rd., Wetumpka 5692825 BAPTIST Abraham Baptist Church Millbrook Antioch Baptist Church 1115 Antioch Rd., Titus 567-2917 Beulah Baptist Church 2350 Grier Rd., Wetumpka 514-2881 Blue Ridge Baptist 4471 Jasmine Hill Rd., Wetumpka 567-4325 Brookwood Baptist Grandview Rd., Millbrook Calvary Baptist 504 W. Osceola St., Wetumpka 5674729 Central Baptist 3545 W. Central Rd., Wetumpka 5412556 Coosada Baptist 20 Kennedy Ave., Coosada Deatsville Baptist 184 Church St., Deatsville Eclectic Baptist Church 203 Claud Rd., Eclectic 541-4444 Faith Baptist 64 Chapel Rd., Wetumpka 567-4417 First Baptist Church 205 W. Bridge St., Wetumpka 567-5191 First Baptist of Elmore

Hwy. 14 Co. Rd. 74, Elmore Galilee Baptist 95 Old Georgia Rd., Wetumpka 5674178 Good Hope Baptist 1766 S. Fleahop Rd., Eclectic Goodship Baptist 1554 Hwy. 143, Millbrook 285-0094 Grace Baptist Old Montgomery Hwy., Wetumpka 567-3255 Grandview Pines Baptist 346 Deatsville Hwy., Millbrook 2855125 Green Ridge Baptist 288 Turner Rd., Wetumpka 567-2486 Harvest Baptist 2990 Main St., Millbrook Hillside Baptist 405 Old Montgomery Hwy., Wetumpka Holtville Riverside Baptist 7121 Holtville Rd., Wetumpka 514-5922 Lake Elam Baptist 4060 Gober Rd., Millbrook Liberty Hill Baptist 61 Crenshaw Rd., Wetumpka 567-8750 Lighthouse Baptist 2281 Main St., Millbrook Living Water Baptist 1745 Grass Farm Rd. (Co. Rd. 80), Titus 514-7304 Millbrook Baptist 3431 Browns Road, Millbrook 285-4731 Mitts Chapel Baptist 935 Cold Springs Rd., Deatsville 5691952 Crossroads Community Church 150 Mt. Hebron Rd., Elmore 567-4441 Mt. Herron East Baptist Church 4355 Mt. Herron Rd. Eclectic, Al 36024 334-857-3689 Mountain View Baptist 1025 Rifle Range Rd., Wetumpka 567-4458 New Harmony Baptist 3094 New Harmony Rd., Marbury 312-1878 New Home Baptist 1605 New Home Rd., Titus 567-0923 New Hope Baptist 6191 Lightwood Rd., Deatsville 5691267 New Lily Green Baptist 6504 Deatsville Hwy., Deatsville New Nazareth Baptist Hwy. 143, Deatsville Pleasant Hill Baptist Pleasant Hill Rd., Eclectic 541-3460

Prospect Baptist Prospect Rd., Eclectic 567-5837 Redland Baptist 1266 Dozier Rd., Wetumpka 567-8649 Refuge Baptist Church 3098 Red Hill Road Tallassee 334-857-2638 Rehoberth Baptist 8110 Rifle Range Rd., Tallassee 5679801 Rushenville Baptist 10098 Georgia Rd., Eclectic 541-2418 Saint James Baptist 1005 Nobles Rd., Wetumpka 567-6209 Saint James Baptist 101 Gantt Rd., Deatsville 569-3006 Santuck Baptist 7250 Central Plank Rd., Wetumpka 567-2364 Seman Baptist Seman, Alabama Shoal Creek Baptist 13214 Holtville Rd., Deatsville 569-2482 Springfield Baptist Hwy. 7, Millbrook Thelma Baptist 810 Weoka Rd., Wetumpka 567-3665 Titus Baptist 6930 Titus Rd., Wetumpka 334-531-2120 Tunnell Chapel Baptist 210 Central Plank Rd., Wetumpka 567-2589 Victory Baptist 5481 Main St., Millbrook Wadsworth Baptist 2780 Hwy. 143, Deatsville 569-2851 BAPTIST - MISSIONARY Atkins Hill 565 Atkins Rd., Wetumpka 567-1141 Cathmagby Baptist 3074 Mitchell Creek Rd., Wetumpka 567-4787 First Missionary Baptist at Guilfield 412 Company St., Wetumpka 567-7455 Goodhope 1389 Willow Springs Rd. Wetumpka 567-7133 Lebanon 17877 U.S. Hwy. 231, Titus 514-1097 Mount Canaan 1125 Weoka Rd., Wetumpka 567-2141 Mount Pisgah 16621 U.S. Hwy. 231, Titus 567-3668 Mt. Zion

371 AL Hwy. 14, Elmore, 567-2613 Mt. Zion #3 1813 Luke Paschal Rd., Eclectic New Home 5130 Elmore Rd., Wetumpka 567-5966 Second Missionary 760 N. Bridge St., Wetumpka 567-8601 Spring Chapel Jasmine Hill Rd., Wetumpka 567-6493 Sweetwater 163 Michael Lane, Wetumpka 334-5389415 Tabernacle Baptist 1020 W. Tallassee St., Wetumpka 567-0620 BAPTIST - PRIMITIVE Bethel Old School 4625 Jackson Rd. (C.R. 103), Wetumpka Providence 4850 Chana Creek Rd., Wetumpka CATHOLIC Our Lady of Guadalupe 545 White Rd., Wetumpka 567-0311 CHURCH OF CHRIST Church of Christ of Elmore 470 Caesarville Rd., Wetumpka 5676670 Church of Christ Grandview Pines 165 Deatsville Hwy., Millbrook Cold Springs Church of Christ 5920 Alabama Hwy. 143, Deatsville Georgia Road Church of Christ 4003 Georgia Rd., Wetumpka 567-2804 Lightwood Church of Christ 251 New Harmony Rd., Deatsville 569-1510 Redland Road Church of Christ 2480 Redland Rd., Wetumpka 5143656 Wetumpka Church of Christ W. Bridge St. At W. Main St., Wetumpka 567-6561 CHURCH OF GOD Elmore Church of God 10675 Rucker Road, Elmore Gethsemane Church of God 705 Cotton St., Wetumpka 567-9886 Church at the Brook 2890 Hwy. 14, Millbrook Maranatha Church of God 2621 Holtville Rd., Wetumpka 567-6786 Victory Tabernacle AOH Church of God 2080 Main Street, Millbrook

2019 UP TO

Dr. Gary Harrelson will begin seeing patients (ages 5 & older) on January 3, 2019 at Tallassee Family Care located at 115 Herren Hill Road, Tallassee, AL 36078. Dr. Harrelson graduated from Louisiana State University School of Medicine in 1981 and completed his Family Medicine Residency in 1984. Before relocating to Tallassee, he practiced in Auburn, AL, caring for patients from the tri-county area. With more than 37 years of Family Practice experience, Dr. Harrelson looks forward to serving our community and meeting the healthcare needs of your family.

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Wetumpka Church of God Hwy. 9 N. Wetumpka 215-3091 CONGREGATIONAL CHRISTIAN Cedarwood Congregational Christian 10286 US Hwy 231 N, Wetumpka 5670476 Seman Congregational Christian 15970 Central Plank Rd., Seman Union Congregational Christian 8188 Lightwood Rd., Marbury 569-2122 EPISCOPAL The Episcopal Church of the Epiphany 2602 Gilmer Ave., Tallassee 252-8618 Trinity Episcopal Church 5371 U.S. Hwy. 231, Wetumpka 567-7534 St. Michael & All Angels Church 5941 Main St., Millbrook HOLINESS New Beginnings Holiness 865 Crenshaw Rd., Wetumpka 567-9211 Summit Holiness 2050 Hwy. 14, Millbrook Temple of Deliverance Holiness 620 Alabama St., Wetumpka 514-3114 JEHOVAH’S WITNESS Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses 9235 U.S. Hwy. 231, Wetumpka 567-8100 LATTER DAY SAINTS Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints 1405 Chapel Rd., Wetumpka 567-8339 Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints Cobbs Ford Rd., Millbrook LUTHERAN Christ Lutheran Church 2175 Cobbs Ford Rd., Prattville PRESBYTERIAN First Presbyterian Church 100 W. Bridge St., Wetumpka 567-8135 Millbrook Presbyterian Corner of Main St. & Coosada Rd. Valley View Presbyterian - PCA 4125 Rifle Range Rd. Wetumpka 3862386 SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST First Elmore Seventh Day Adventist 210 Lucky Town Rd., Elmore 514-1020

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Sports

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As many students prepared to return to school in August, senior Jeffrey Purcell decided to take a different route. After problems at home arose, Purcell moved away to live on his own and he felt he was forced to drop out of high school with limited resources

PAGE 9 • JANUARY 9, 2019

The

Observer

REDEMPTION: By CALEB TURRENTINE Sports Writer

Visit our sister website: TallasseeTribune.com

Elmore County’s Jeffrey Purcell looks to write new ending to his story

career. at his disposal. However, with the It did not take long help of coach Jared for Purcell to return to Jones and Elmore his family’s farm where County High School, he now spends most of Purcell is looking at a his day working. After new outcome. missing the first few Purcell said his mom weeks of the school approached him with year, it seemed likely the idea to return to Purcell was on his way Purcell academics while still to getting a GED instead being able to focus on the work of finishing his high school

CALEB TURRENTINEE Sports Writer

Monday’s game said more about Clemson than it did Alabama

at home. Elmore County offers an online program called The EDGE, which allows residents of Elmore County to take courses from a remote location. “Every student has their own story,” Elmore County principal Wes Rogers said. “We’re here for the kids. We want them to leave here successful. He has to do the whole year worth of work in a few months

but he wants to be here. He knows this is the best place for him.” Purcell is now back on track to graduate with the classmates he has grown close to over the last few years. He became friends with many of them when he joined the wrestling team. During his junior year, See PURCELL • Page 10

BRAND NEW SEASON

T

he college football world was shocked Monday night when Clemson scored 31 unanswered points against Alabama on its way to its second national title in three years. The Tigers were always one of the favorites entering the season — I picked them as the champions in August but that’s no big deal — but no one could have predicted what happened Monday night in Santa Clara, California. Alabama had more first downs, more rushing yards, more pass completions and even finished with more offensive plays and time of possession. Those are all the things Clemson won the last time the Tigers knocked off the Crimson Tide and surely those things were a focus for Alabama going into the game. However, the Clemson defense made sure none of that mattered. After allowing two touchdowns on the first three Alabama offensive drives, the Tigers locked down the top offense in the country and allowed just three points for the rest of the game. Tua Tagovailoa looked like a different quarterback but the truth is, he still may be the best passer in the country. Clemson’s defense was just that good and we should have seen it coming. There were times where it would bend but Clemson’s defense held its ground when it needed to. Alabama was 4-for-13 on third downs and 3-for-6 on fourth downs. The Crimson Tide could not even complain (too much) about ther kicking game because they attempted only one field goal. They were forced into going for it on several occasions because they were playing from behind. A few bad play calls certainly didn’t help. Clemson’s offense stole the show from Tagovailoa and the Tide’s highpowered unit. Trevor Lawrence was the best quarterback in the country Monday night and it was a different star from the state of Alabama who had the biggest performance of the game. Central Phenix-City graduate Justyn Ross finished the game with six receptions for 153 yards. His 74-yard touchdown catch seemed to be the moment everyone knew the Crimson Tide were in trouble. The game got so out of hand Clemson brought in its reserves on its final drive. And for good measure, the Tigers took the final 10 minutes of the game to drive 94 yards and still finish short of a touchdown, just like an Alabama team would do under Nick Saban. As with any Alabama loss, the stories will come about how Alabama’s dynasty is over. That may not be entirely the case but I do believe Monday signaled the changing of the guard a bit. This is the first time a team other than Alabama has won two championships in three seasons since Florida did it in 2006 and 2008. Clemson is here to stay and the Tigers made that clear with a 28-point victory over Saban’s dynasty with the play of two true freshmen. If you’re sick of seeing Clemson and Alabama play in the postseason, you may just want to stay away from college football for a while. As long as Saban and Dabo Swinney are in charge of these two programs, there are not many other teams that will be beating them.

File / The Observer

Elmore County boys basketball coach Rodney Taylor is hoping to take some positives out of the holiday break and into area play.

Area hoops play brings new sense of urgency By CALEB TURRENTINE Sports Writer

High school basketball teams will return from the holiday break with several games circled on the calendar over the next month. The turn of the year comes with a higher priority on each game as the focus turns to area play. “It’s like a new season,” Tallassee boys coach Keiven Mixson said. “We are excited about where we’re at but it’s a new season. We have to focus on the things we were doing well and what made us suc-

cessful.” The Tigers enter the start of area play with a 15-2 overall record and is one of the favorites in Class 5A Area 4. Tallassee went 6-1 during the month of January last season and it will hope to use another big run this season for a chance to host the area tournament. “Area play is going to be tough for us,” Mixson said. “Everyone is getting a little better. Everyone is shooting for the same thing but we’re capable of it. We know where we stand.” Tallassee’s biggest challenge in area play will come

and both teams are preparing for the rematch Jan. 17. Both coaches believe that game can be the key to success in the second half of the season and will use the rest of the time to prepare for the area tournament. “We have 10 games to get ready for one game in February,” Elmore County boys coach Rodney Taylor said. “We want to keep getting better and be ready for the area tournament. One game, one night. Anything can happen.” The top two teams from each area will advance to See HOOPS • Page 10

Elmore County Player of the Week

Wright leads Mustangs to win in first taste of rivalry By CALEB TURRENTINE Sports Writer

Brian Tannehill / For The Observer

Caleb Turrentine is a sports writer for The Observer.

from another ranked team. Brewbaker Tech is 13-5 this season and has been a force in 5A for the last few seasons. The two teams will meet for the first time Thursday night when the Tigers play host to the topten showdown. Holtville and Elmore County will be playing the underdog role in Class 4A Area 5. Each team has already played two area games but still have six remaining games to fill the majority of the schedule. Elmore County grabbed a one-point win at Holtville at the beginning of the season

Stanhope Elmores C.J. Wright (14) flies to the hoop for a layup during Saturday’s win over Wetumpka.

In his first season at Stanhope Elmore, C.J. Wright has made a big impact on the Mustang boys basketball team. After moving from Sidney Lanier, Wright immediately became one of the starters for Stanhope coach Terry Hardy. Wright got his chance to make an impression on possibly the biggest basketball stage in Elmore County on Saturday night when the Mustangs hosted Wetumpka in the area opener. He took advantage of the opportunity, scoring a game-high 25 points to lead Stanhope to its first victory of 2019. “It felt great to have everyone come out and put on a show for everybody,” Wright said.

Wright got started early in the game, scoring six points in the opening frame. He grabbed four rebounds and two steals in the first quarter as well. “He comes from Montgomery so every game they play down there is a rivalry so he’s kind of used to that,” Stanhope coach Terry Hardy said. “It’s nothing new for him but he was welcomed into this one in a big way. He’s a big addition to the team, just the energy he brings and his defense. His defense helps out a lot and gets everyone going.” Wright’s real show did not start until the second half. After finishing the second quarter with just seven points, Wright came out on fire in the third quarter. With just over three See WRIGHT • Page 10

JANUARY 9, 2019 • PAGE 10

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER

NATIONAL UPSET

Clemson hands Tide blowout loss in title game STAFF REPORT TPI Staff

The Alabama Crimson Tide suffered its worst loss under coach Nick Saban, and it came at the worst possible time. After leading Clemson early in the second quarter, the Tide were stymied by the Tigers’ defense and overwhelmed by their offense. It resulted in a lopsided victory in favor of Clemson, which won 44-16 to claim the College Football Playoff National Championship Game victory. Clemson immediately got started, as A.J. Terrell picked off a pass from Alabama quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and ran it 44 yards to the house. “I don’t think there was anything they were doing that stopped us,” Tagovailoa said at a postgame press conference televised on ESPN. “That was totally a bad decision, poor decision on my part. We came out and we were killing ourselves. We were shooting ourselves in the foot. Although Alabama answered back, tying the score when Tagovailoa connected with Jerry Jeudy for a 62-yard score, Clemson fired right back. Less than two minutes later, the Tigers scored from 17 yards out to take a 14-7 lead. Alabama had the next

Kent Gidley / UA Athletics

Top: Alabama wide receiver Jerry Jeudy (4) is tracked down by Clemson’s Tanner Muse in Monday’s national championship game. The Crimson Tide lost, 44-16. Above: Alabama running back Josh Jacobs (8) is surrounded by a trio of Clemson defenders Monday night.

two scores, and a 25-yard field goal from Joseph Bulovas was the Tide’s only lead of the game. But what looked like might turn into a shootout quickly became a blowout in favor of Clemson, as the Tigers scored 31 straight points en route to the easy victory. Although Alabama did a decent job stopping Clemson’s run game — the Tigers had just 135 yards on the ground — quarterback Trevor Lawrence had a field day through the air, going 20

of 32 for 347 yards and three touchdowns. He was named the game’s offensive MVP. For UA, Tagovailoa finished the game 22-of-34 for 295 yards to go along with two touchdowns and two interceptions. Jeudy ended the contest with five catches for 139 yards and a score. On defense, sophomore defensive back Xavier McKinney had seven tackles and a pass breakup, while junior linebacker Mack Wilson and senior defensive end Isaiah

Hoops the next round of the postseason. The winners will host a sub-regional game while the runner up will go on the road. Holtville, which lost each of its first two area games, will look to rebound when it travels to area leader Handley on Friday night. The Bulldogs had two weeks without a game during the break and hope the rest will do them some good. “My guys are in great spirits,” Holtville boys coach Michael Collins said. “No one is hanging their heads or dragging their feet. The great thing about the area tournament is everyone is starting at the base level.” Holtville will resume area play with two road games in a six-day span. After traveling to Handley, the Bulldogs will travel across the county to face Elmore County, two teams which they already lost to. “In my experience, playing on the road is just about attitude,” Collins said. “You have to play a little smarter. If we play the way we’re supposed to play, those home calls and hostile crowds aren’t going to make that big of a difference.” Holtville will finish up area play with two games against Booker

Buggs each had six tackles. “I don’t think one game necessarily defines who you are, and that’s what I’d like our players to know,” Saban said during his postgame press conference on ESPN. “I think you learn a lot from experiences like this. … The seniors on this team have done a fantastic job representing the University of Alabama. They’ve provided a lot of leadership and a lot of good examples for the young players on our team.”

continued from Page 9

Purcell

continued from Page 9

Purcell was one of the top wrestlers for the Panthers. He made it to the state championship match in Huntsville before failing to make weight and missing out on a chance to wrestle for the title. Purcell was ready to avenge that moment this season but it was in jeopardy after not enrolling for the beginning of the semester. However, AHSAA rules allow students enrolled through online programs to participate in athletic events. “That’s like my family,” Purcell said. “When I left, I felt like I abandoned them. When my mom told me I had the option to go back, I knew I had to take it. I was just glad for the opportunity.” Jones said the team’s first reaction to hearing Purcell would not return was thinking he was crazy. However, when the time came to welcome Purcell back to the team, they were willing if he was willing to put in the work. “I want to push myself to make sure I achieve my goals,” Purcell said. “I don’t want any chance of that happening again. I have to put forth the effort to make it work.” Purcell hit the mats for the first time this season in a tournament at Prattville Christian last month. He picked up right where he left off, winning all five matches at the tournament by pins. “It felt great to be back out there,” Purcell said. “I like getting out on the mats. It helps with stress and everything. We built a family and we support each other so I’m just glad to come back to that.” Jones said the original plan was for Purcell to split time with the other starter at the 132-pound weight class but he was out of town for the tournament. Purcell took full advantage of the opportunity he had. “The longer he is with the team, the easier it is going to get on everyone,” Jones said. “It’s easier for them to accept that he’s back when he’s out there winning.” Purcell followed up his performance with a 4-1 record at the Barry Mask Invitational at Wetumpka. While he said school is still the main focus, Purcell said a fast start on the mats helped him realize he made the right choice to return. “The main thing is he’s back on track to graduate,” Jones said. “I’m definitely glad he’s back with the wrestling team but I’m more happy he won’t be considered a dropout.”

Wright

continued from Page 9

minutes to go in the quarter, Wright made his first field goal attempt of the second half. The shot started a run of seven consecutive points for Wright which gave Stanhope its largest lead of the game with 2:18 to go in the third. After the game, Wright said he did not realize how well he was playing until the final buzzer. He said getting the win is first but being worried about the stats can make you worse. “I just have to play through it,” Wright said. “I don’t worry about it too much — don’t worry about your stats or it will keep you down. I just keep playing and try to have a good game.” Wright scored nine points in the quarter, making all three of his shot attempts. He capped off the quarter by following up a teammate’s missed layup with a putback dunk just before the buzzer. “That was my first one like that,” Wright said. “Everyone got excited so I had to throw that one down for everybody. I didn’t have any words; I just had to look at the crowd.” In the fourth quarter, Wright added nine more points, including three free throws which helped put the game away. Stanhope improved to 10-6 on the season and 1-0 in area play with a 67-63 win over its rivals. “It was an important win,” Wright said. “We were bringing the energy in practice and coach was coming on strong. It just paid off during the game.”

File / The Observer

Shakwan Bickley (13) and Elmore County will be the underdogs when they pick up Class 4A Area 5 play again this week.

T. Washington. Collins said he still wants to see improvement from his team and believes they can still be great. “We’re working on getting better and playing consistently,” Collins said. “When we play well, we’re a very good basketball team but we’ve strug-

gled with consistency.” Booker T. Washington dropped its area opener against Handley but will still be the favorites to finish as the runner up at the area tournament. Elmore County fell to the Yellow Jackets during a tournament over the break and Taylor said he’s trying to

take the positives from the extra meeting. “It can be good and bad but, in this case, I liked it,” Taylor said. “I got a chance to watch them play for three days and we saw we could compete with them. We aren’t looking at it as an insurmountable game.”

Brian Tannehill / For The Observer

Stanhope Elmore’s C.J. Wright is the Elmore County Player of the Week.

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