Feb. 27, 2019 Eclectic Observer

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Eclectic Observer The

WEDNESDAY • FEBRUARY 27, 2019

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

Vol. 30, No. 9

Council tables action on financial matters By DONALD CAMPBELL Staff Writer

Following a pair of presentations made by representatives from Utility Management and Avenu Insights, the Eclectic Town Council voted Feb. 18 to table immediate action on both companies’ proposals to generate revenue for

the past three years.” Through these audits, Hoffman said the company may find ways the town can save money or it may find the town is getting the best deal possible. He said Utility Management does not charge its clients up front but splits any savings 50-50 with a client during a required four-year agreement.

the town. The first presentation came from Utility Management’s Ron Hoffman, who said it conducts electric rate audits for companies and municipalities to save them money on their utilities. “It’s a simple process,” Hoffman said. “We contact Alabama Power on your behalf and look at your data from

The second presentation was given by Yolanda Watkins from Avenu Insight, formerly known as Revenue Discovery Systems (RDS). Based on calculations the group made, Watkins said Eclectic could save $8,500 a year by changing its sales tax collection service from the Alabama Department of See COUNCIL • Page 2

Commission approves appointments County also approves vacating road near Lake Jordan By DONALD CAMPBELL Staff Writer

Donald Campbell / The Observer

Eclectic Elementary School principal Timothy Turley sits with a group of first-graders Thursday morning, watching as they complete an assignment on the difference between a person and a place.

Turley enjoys serving in leadership role Editor’s Note: This is the fourth in a series profiling principals in the Elmore County School System. By DONALD CAMPBELL Staff Writer It is often said it takes a special person to be a teacher and it’s just as true for those who serve as principals

Today’s

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since they must handle a wide range of issues to make sure the school is achieving its full potential. Among those special individuals is Timothy Turley, the principal at Eclectic Elementary School. “I like dealing with people,” Turley said. “I enjoy trying to solve problems and resolve issues.”

Following a six-year stint in the U.S. Army, Turley began his teaching career in 1998 at Wetumpka High School before coming to Eclectic Elementary School in 2003 to serve as assistant principal. He was promoted to principal in 2009. “It’s a humbling experience to know See TURLEY • Page 3

Openings on a pair of local water boards were filled during the Elmore County Commission at Monday night’s meeting. The commission approved William “Bill” Newton to fill a vacant seat on the Central Elmore Water and Sewer Authority board, and approved the reappointment of Charles “Ronnie” Bazzell to continue his service on the Elmore Water and Sewer Authority board. During the time the commission left an application window open to all interested parties, all of the commissioners had nothing but positive things to say about both men. Following a public hearing during Monday night’s work session, the commission approved a petition to vacate a public road off Hummingbird Lane near Lake Jordan. According to a homeowner wanting to build a new home on the property the road runs through, the road was once used for logging and platted by the county but there have been no efforts to develop along the road. See COMMISSION • Page 7

Affected Elmore County residents eligible for SBA loans STAFF REPORT TPI Staff

Low

THURS: HIGH 70 LOW 55

Gov. Kay Ivey announced Friday that Alabama businesses and residents affected by severe weather and a tornado on Jan. 19 can apply this week in Wetumpka for low-interest disaster loans from the Small Business Administration. SBA administrator Linda McMahon made the loans available in response to a letter from Ivey on Feb. 14 requesting a disaster declaration by the SBA covering Elmore, Autauga, Chilton, Coosa, Macon, Montgomery and Tallapoosa counties. “With the approval of my request for federal assistance, the Small Business Administration is providing a much-needed opportunity for recovery funding to the citizens of Wetumpka,” Ivey said. “Many individuals and businesses will benefit greatly from the federal disaster loans that SBA offers as they continue to recover following the devastating tornado that heavily damaged parts of the community.” SBA’s Customer Service Representatives will be See LOANS • Page 2

File / The Observer

Elmore County residents affected by the Jan. 19 torado can apply for low-interest disaster loans from the Small Business Administration, Gov. Kay Ivey announced Friday.

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PAGE 2 • FEBRUARY 27, 2019

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THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER

Council

Obituaries Sandra Lee Kovach Sandra Lee Kovach, age 75, of Eclectic, Alabama passed away on Tuesday February 19, 2019. Sandra was born July 26, 1943 in Illinois to Wilma Lyerla and Leroy Lyerla. Sandra is survived by her husband, Jimmy Kovach of Eclectic, AL; son-in-law Cecil Hannah of Hampton, GA; and son David Kovach of Riverside, CA; sister Judith Lanier and brother-in-law James Lanier of Eclectic, AL; grandson Drew Hannah of Hampton, GA. Sandra was preceded in death by; daughter Teri Hannah; father Leroy Lyerla and mother Wilma Lyerla. Growing up in Illinois, she married Jimmy Kovach on December 31, 1963 in Bluford, Illinois. Their life journey brought them to Alabama where she took care of her family (especially her husband). Sandra enjoyed reading, gospels music, spending time with her family and jigsaw puzzles. A member of Santuck Baptist Church, she was also known as an Alabama fan (quite an accomplishment for a girl from Illinois...). A processional gathering for Sandra will form at White Chapel-Greenwood Funeral Home, 909 Lincoln Road, Montgomery, AL on Monday, February 25, 2019 from 10:30 AM to 10:45 AM . The processional will then head to Greenwood Serenity Memorial Gardens, for a Graveside Service at 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Sandra’s memory may be made to a charity of your choice. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.WhiteChapelGreenwoodFH.com for the Kovach family.

Shirley Jean Meadows It is with our deepest sorrow that we inform you of the death of our beloved wife and mother Shirley Jean Meadows on February 21, 2019. Her life was a blessing for us. Her memory is a treasure that we hold dear. She is loved beyond words and missed beyond measure. Funeral services will be held on February 27, 2019 at 1:00 p.m. at Union #2 Baptist Church. Professional services provided by Wright’s Funeral Home.

Byrne announces US Senate candidacy STAFF REPORT TPI Staff

First Congressional District Republican Rep. Bradley Byrne announced on Feb. 20 in Mobile he is running for the U.S. Senate against Democratic incumbent Doug Jones in 2020. In announcing his candidacy, the three-term congressman made clear his campaign will focus on his record as a supporter of Alabama values and present a stark contrast between his conservative roots and Jones’ liberal views. “The fight for America’s future is too important to sit on the sidelines,” Byrne said. “I am running for the United States Senate to defend the values important to Alabama. We need a senator who Byrne will fight with President (Donald) Trump to defend the Constitution, build the wall, stand up for the unborn, push for lower taxes, make healthcare more affordable and protect the Second Amendment. I will fight every day to bring Alabama’s conservative values to Washington.” The Byrne family has been actively involved in the Mobile community since long before Alabama’s statehood. Bradley and his wife, Rebecca, reside in Fairhope. After graduating from the University of Alabama School of Law, Byrne returned to Mobile to practice and eventually entered public service as a member of the Alabama State Board of Education. Byrne gained name recognition with his fight against government corruption in the Alabama community college system and worked to reform Alabama’s Department of Postsecondary Education as chancellor. Byrne lost the 2010 Republican gubernatorial primary to eventual winner Robert Bentley.

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

continued from Page 1

Revenue to Avenu Insight. Watkins also said Avenu Insight offers to investigate if companies doing business in Eclectic have a business license; those without a license would be charged penalties. Watkins said the town could choose both or just one of the services if it signed a one-year agreement with the company. “You all were a former customer of ours,” Watkins said. “We would love to have you back.” The council wants to do more research on both proposals. The council also failed to act on a resolution from the Alabama League of Municipalities supporting an increase in the gas tax to fund infrastructure needs. The Alabama Legislature is expected to take up the issue in its upcoming regular session; the gas tax has not been raised since 1992. “Do we know what the

increase will be?” councilmember Carmen Winslett asked. “No, the legislature will be taking it up in March,” Mayor Gary Davenport said. After reading the resolution, a motion to approve it was made but it died for lack of a second. In other action at the meeting: • The latest town financial report was approved. Davenport said the town collected $94,000 in sales tax revenue during in January — about where the budget estimated the town would be. • The council reviewed a copy of the latest policy from the Eclectic Fire Department regarding enforcement of the town’s fire code. Although Councilmember Jackie Stearns said she wanted to see more detail, the council thanked the department for putting together the policy in a timely manner. • Davenport said the Industrial Development Board is looking for members to serve on its com-

mittee, and the planning commission approved an addition to Hercules Poly. • The council approved allowing Kellis Vegetation Management to handle fire ant control at the Panther Palace playground and senior center for a year at a cost of $428. • Winslett asked if a cutoff time for adding items to the meeting agenda could be established and the council agreed the deadline will be the Thursday before a council meeting. • Davenport said all the lights at Aaron Park have been installed and a final walkthrough will complete the project. He also announced final approval for the projects on Middle and Madix roads have been received from the Alabama Department of Environmental Management. The next meeting of the Eclectic Town Council will be at 6 p.m. on Monday, March 18 at Eclectic Town Hall.

Loans

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available at the Disaster Loan Outreach Center to answer questions about the disaster loan program and help individuals complete their applications. The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is April 22 and the deadline to return economic injury applications is Nov. 21. Those who want to apply for assistance can go to the center at the Elmore County Commission office on 100 East Commerce St. in Wetumpka Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The office will close on March 2 at 2 p.m. Businesses and private nonprofit organizations may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory and other business assets. Interest rates are as low as 3.74 percent for businesses, 2.75 percent for nonprofit organizations, and 2 percent for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years. Loan amounts and terms are set by the SBA and based on each applicant’s financial condition. “Getting businesses and communities up and running after a disaster is our highest priority at SBA,” McMahon said. Loans up to $200,000 are available to homeowners to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate, and homeowners and renters are eligible for loans up to $40,000 to repair or replace damaged or destroyed personal property, according to Kem Fleming, the center director of SBA’s Field Operations Center East in Atlanta. For small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and most private nonprofit organizations, the SBA offers Economic Injury Disaster Loans to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster. Economic Injury Disaster Loan assistance is available regardless of whether the business suffered any physical property damage. Applicants may be eligible for a loan amount increase up to 20 percent of their physical

Hal Yeager / Governor’s Office

Gov. Kay Ivey surveyed tornado damage in Wetumpka following the Jan. 19 tornado. She recently announced those affected by the tornado are eligible for SBA loans.

damages, as verified by the SBA for mitigation purposes. Eligible mitigation improvements may include a safe room or storm shelter, sump pump, French drain or retaining wall to help protect property and occupants from future damage caused by a similar disaster. “The approval of the governor’s request for a Small Business Administration disaster declaration demonstrates the diverse partnerships that exist to provide assistance and an opportunity to eligible individuals in the city of Wetumpka, Elmore County and the contiguous counties to create a better tomorrow,” Alabama Emergency Management director Brian Hastings said. “Long-term recovery is an arduous process and SBA has always played a

strong role in helping our citizens in their time of need.” Applicants may apply for assistance online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via SBA’s secure website at DisasterLoan.sba.gov. Businesses and individuals may also obtain information and loan applications by calling the SBA’s Customer Service Center at 1-800-659-2955 (1-800-8778339 for the deaf and hard of hearing) or by emailing edisastercustomerservice@sba.gov. Loan applications can also be downloaded at www.sba.gov. Completed applications should be returned to the center or mailed to: U.S. Small Business Administration, Processing and Disbursement Center, 14925 Kingsport Road, Fort Worth, Texas, 76155.

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FEBRUARY 27, 2019 • PAGE 3

Humane Society of Elmore County News

Pawdi-Gras set for Saturday By REA CORD HSEC Executive Director

We sure hope to see a huge, fun and pet-loving crowd in downtown Wetumpka this coming Saturday, March 2 at 1 p.m. for the 2019 Order of Cimarrón Mardi Gras Festival as they also celebrate “Pawdi Gras” where pet owners can dress up their pet in Mardi Gras themed apparel and decorations for the parade. In honor of their first-ever “Pawdi Gras,” the grand marshall for the parade will be Rea Cord, Executive Director for the Humane Society of Elmore County. Isn’t that just the most ‘pawsome’ honor? Pet owners are encouraged to dress up their pet and walk along in the parade and Mardi Gras themed pets will be featured near the front of the parade. There is no entry fee for the parade, but they do need to know who all is joining the fun, so if you would like to participate in the “Pawdi Gras parade,” please download the Pawdi Gras entry form at http://wetumpkamardigras.com/ gallery/2018%20pawdi%20gras%20 application.pdf, fill in the info, then scan or take pictures of the application and email it to jeffroyal@msn.com by Wednesday, Feb. 27. The great crew of the Order of Cimarrón is also taking donations to benefit our shelter if you would like to help. You can see our shelter needs list at http://www.elmorehumane.org/ monetary-donations.html, but suffice that cleaning supplies are always at the top of the list — bleach, Fabuloso, dishwashing detergent and laundry detergent. But pet toys, office supplies, puppy and kitten food also great donations. Please ensure that any pet you bring to the parade is good in public around large crowds, loud noises, humans in costumes, children and other dogs. Your leashed dog also must be current on its rabies vaccine as required by Alabama law. Owners are asked to bring a “pet waste bag” and be responsible for cleanup along the route. Please also

make sure your pet is comfortable in its “costume” and does not overheat or get tangled up as we want this to be fun for your pet as well. Now the actual Order of Cimarrón Mardi Gras festival begins at 9 a.m. in Gold Star Park with over 40 vendors and fun for all. The parade will roll at 1 p.m. rain or shine. Parade participants will assemble at First Baptist Church, 205 West Bridge Street. The parade will follow West Bridge Street across the Bibb Graves Bridge and take a left on East Bridge Street, then turn right onto Hill Street, right onto East Commerce Street and go in front of the Elmore County Courthouse. Then the parade will turn left onto South Main Street and end at the Wind Creek Casino employee parking lot. Our ninth annual “Getting Down with the Dawgs” $10,000 Drawdown is coming up fast on Friday, March 15 at the Entertainment Center of Wind Creek Wetumpka. With the purchase of a $100 ticket you will have a 1 in 312 opportunity to win $10,000 (you do not have to be present to win the grand prize). Each ticket holder and guest will get a delicious buffet dinner/beverage, awesome door prizes given out after every 25th ticket drawn (you do have to be present to win the door prizes) and cash bars for your convenience. If you have a guest that would like to attend with the ticket holder(s), cost for their entry/meal is $25. On Friday, March 15, the Wind Creek Entertainment Center doors will open at 6 p.m., dinner catered by Wind Creek will begin at 6:30 and the Drawdown will start at 7:15. Stop by the shelter Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. to get your ticket(s). If you want to also visit our pets for adoption, please wait until 10 a.m. to get your ticket(s). You can also purchase your ticket(s) over the phone with a credit card, but we cannot mail them per federal law and will hold them in ‘will call.’ For any questions contact the shelter at 334567-3377 or email hselco@bellsouth. net.

Pet of the Week — Gracie

G

racie is a 4-year old female lab/shepherd mix who is a little shy at first but is very, very sweet. Gracie came to us with Gabby and they are just wonderful girls. Gracie weighs about 45 pounds, is great with other dogs and is just a very loving dog in search of a family to call her own. 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

Turley

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 all Gracie and all the other great pets at the shelter, visit 255 Central Plank Road in Wetumpka or visit the shelter’s website at www. elmorehumane.org. For more information, email the shelter at hselco@bellsouth.net or call 334-567-3377. The shelter is open for adoptions Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m.

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you’ve been selected for such a task,” Turley said. Turley said he held leadership positions while serving in the Army and believes that helps him be an effective leader at the elementary school. Taking the Elmore County School System’s statement “Every child empowered, every student succeeds” to heart and the idea that leadership is the art of influencing others, Turley works hard with his teachers and staff to create the best environment possible for their students. “To me, my job and the job of my staff is to provide a safe learning environment in order to create responsible members of society,” Turley said. In order to accomplish this, Turley said the school puts a special emphasis on reading and math while not neglecting other vital areas of learning. Turley said the goal in these two areas is helping students effectively comprehend what they are reading and ensuring they have the basic math skills needed to serve as a strong foundation as they move into the higher grades. Technology also plays a key role in the learning process at Eclectic Elementary, as Turley said his students love using technology while teachers find apps and games that entertain and teach the students. Although the school has not achieved a one-to-one initiative, he said each classroom has several

iPads for students to work on. “Our goal is literacy but we want our students to have fun,” Turley said. “If they have fun, they’re going to learn more.” As additional motivation to keep the students engaged, Turley said his teachers hand out rewards to students for meeting certain goals in the classroom while the school holds occasional parties for students who meet their Accelerated Reader goals, for example. The school holds special assemblies, bringing in speakers and activities the school feels students will enjoy, and there is always a huge turnout for the end-of-the-year awards day program. Turley said everyone is buying in to what he wants to see accomplished and the school is seeing results. “We are always trying to do better than we did last year,” Turley said. “We went from an 86 to an 88 on the state report card and we would love to get an A next year. We tell each class how they did last year then tell them we want them to be the best they can and have the highest scores. At times, if our students see it as a competition, they will want to work harder to beat last year’s score and other elementary schools.” While Turley said his school may not face the same kind of issues others might deal with, such as cyberbullying, he agreed there are certain issues

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Eclectic Elementary faces, including adequate funding. “We would like to see additional funding,” Turley said. “However, we do know you can’t always throw money at a problem and make it better.” Turley said there are ways the school has managed to acquire additional finances, including fundraisers and through the efforts of a highly motivated parent-teacher organization. For example, he mentioned the community’s generosity helped Eclectic Elementary add two new computer labs

over the past five years. Turley said he sees Eclectic Elementary School as a large family which works hard every day, and he encourages and reminds his students, parents and teachers how valuable it can be to work together as a family to achieve greatness. “Everyone is buying in,” Turley said. “Students, teachers and parents are all in the mix. It takes all of them for our children to be successful. Things are moving in the right direction here but there’s always room for improvement.”

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Page 4 • FEBRUARY 27, 2019

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Jones will be the underdog in Senate race

A

lot has happened politically in the first quarter of 2019. The governor and all of our constitutional officials have been sworn in and begun their fouryear terms in office with Kay Ivey as governor, Will Ainsworth as lieutenant governor, John Merrill as secretary of state, John McMillan as state treasurer, Rick Pate as agriculture commissioner and Jim Zeigler begins his second term as state auditor. More importantly, the legislature has organized and the regular session begins next week. It will be dealing with a myriad of major issues, not the least of which are the two state budgets. The legislature is more important than the governor in state government because it appropriates the money. Those who have the gold make the rules. Another apropos adage is the governor proposes but the legislature disposes. The powers in the 35-member Senate are Sen. Del Marsh (R-Anniston), Sen. Greg Reed (R-Jasper), Sen. Jabo Waggoner (R-Vestavia), Sen. Arthur Orr (R-Decatur) and Sen. Greg Albritton (R-Escambia). Orr and Albritton chair the finance and taxation committees. The leadership of the House consists of Speaker Mac McCutcheon (R-Madison), Rep. Victor Gaston (R-Mobile), Rep. Mike Jones (R-Covington), Rep. Bill Poole (R-Tuscaloosa) and Rep. Steve Clouse (R-Ozark). Poole and Clouse chair the budget committees. All of the above lawmakers are Republicans. There is a super majority Republican domination in both chambers; a 77-28 margin for Republicans over Democrats in the House and a 28-7 margin in the Senate. There is one white Democrat in the Senate, Sen. Billy Beasley of

STEVE FLOWERS Columnistt Barbour, which is George Wallace’s home county. As predicted, the 2020 campaigns have begun. In Alabama, we’ll not only have a presidential race but one for the U.S. Senate. Our anomaly, Democratic junior Sen. Doug “the California Kid” Jones will be running for a full term. His philosophy and voting record more closely reflect a California senator than his Alabama counterpart, Sen. Richard Shelby. Jones is truly, unashamedly a liberal national Democrat. He votes right down the line with the liberal Democratic leadership in Washington; his voting record is identical to Chuck Schumer’s, Elizabeth Warren’s and Bernie Sanders’. It is more of a parody than anomaly that one of the most conservative states in America would have a liberal democrat representing it in the U.S. Senate. Indeed, Jones is the only Democrat in any Deep South state in the Senate. It is safe to say Jones will be the underdog next year as, unfortunately for him, he more than likely will not have Roy Moore to run against, although my guess is Moore might run again. All of the early Republican entrees or prospects are up in age, which is not conducive to building seniority or power in the Senate. Moore is over 70, Zeigler is 70, U.S. Rep. Bradley Byrne is 63 and Marsh is 62. Byrne and Zeigler have significant name identification and both have built a statewide

organization, so they would be the early favorites. Marsh can be a player if he is willing to spend his personal money; it would take $2 million to $3 million to put him in the game. Ainsworth would be the perfect choice to take the Jeff Sessions/Jones seat. He is 37 and could build power for the state in Washington. If he enters the Senate race, the Republican to watch is Merrill, who has a free shot. He has the best and broadest statewide grassroots political organization in modern Alabama political history. Nobody will come close to outworking him. The presidential campaign caravan has begun and a host of liberal democratic senators are lining up. Liberal is the optimum word but most would prefer to be labeled socialists. Their states give you an indication of their philosophical tint. Sen. Kristen Gillibrand of New York, Sen. Cory Booker of New Jersey, Warren of Massachusetts, Sanders of Vermont and Sen. Kamala Harris of California are seeking the Democratic nomination. Also in is Julian Castro, who was housing director in the Obama administration and whose philosophy is akin to Fidel Castro’s. Jones should run for president since his Senate voting record is just as liberal as the aforementioned other Democratic senators. He has a proven civil rights record and his fundraising base is built in California and New York. His odds are probably better for winning the Democratic presidential nomination than being elected to a full term as a Democratic senator from the Heart of Dixie. Steve Flowers served 16 years in the Alabama Legislature and can be reached at www.steveflowers.us.

We’d like to share your thoughts and opinions with the community for free. You may submit one letter to the editor per month (300 words or less) and/or a guest column (500 words or less). Include name, address and phone number. We reserve the right to refuse any submissions. Mail: Your View, The Wetumpka Herald P.O. Box 99, Wetumpka, AL 36092 E-mail: news@thewetumpkaherald.com

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Obituaries: 25 cents per word with a $15 charge for picture per paper (Herald, Observer, Tribune). Obituaries are only accepted via the funeral home in charge of arrangements. We do not accept obituaries from individuals. Weddings, Engagements, Anniversaries, or Birth Announcements: These significant family events or milestones are free up to 120 words and a small photograph. Longer announcements are billed at 25 cents a word over the initial 120. Photographs up to 4 columns by 4 inches are $25 and must be emailed to us at announcements@ thewetumpkaherald.com. Include name and telephone number. The text for the announcement must be in the body of the email (not as an attachment) and photographs must be sent as a .jpeg attached to the email. Announcements will appear within 10 days in The Herald, The Tribune or The Observer.

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Eclectic Observer The

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. The publisher reserves the right to change subscription rates during the term of subscription with a 30-day notice. The notice can be mailed to the subscriber, or by notice in the newspaper itself. To subscribe or if you missed your paper, call Erin Burton or Linda Ewing at 256-234-4281. The Eclectic Observer is contract printed each Tuesday evening in Alexander City by Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. 256-234-4281

Subscribe Today!

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For residents in Elmore, Tallapoosa or Coosa Counties. $38 annually elsewhere.

Call 256-234-4281

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Information

USPS-005-022 ISSN: 1536-688X The Eclectic Observer is published weekly on Wednesday, by Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc., 548 Cherokee Road, Alexander City, AL 35010. Periodical postage paid at Wetumpka, Alabama. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Eclectic Observer, P. O. Box 99, Wetumpka, AL 36092-0099. Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. manages The Alexander City Outlook, The Dadeville Record, The Wetumpka Herald, The Tallassee Tribune, The Eclectic Observer, Lake Magazine, Lake Martin Living, Elmore County Living, Kenneth Boone Photography and a commercial web printing press. © 2016 Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. All rights reserved and any reproduction of this issue is prohibited without the consent of the editor or publisher.

www.thewetumpkaherald.com

Big lessons discovered in small store M

y life changed forever inside the walls of a Payless Shoe Source. Last week the small-but-mighty chain of shoe stores from Topeka, Kansas, announced the closing of its 2,100 stores. Known for affordable footwear, you could always find a pair of shoes to keep your toes dry and a leave a few dollars in your pocket. But it wasn’t the knock-off Sperry boat shoes that changed my life – it was the job as a shoe clerk inside the modest building that changed my life. I was in college and needed a job. Payless needed a clerk. Not exactly a match made in heaven but a job nonetheless. Back then the school posted jobs on a bulletin board on note cards. When you ran across one you were interested in, you pried out the thumbtack and carried the blue card around the corner to the job placement department. The lady at a small desk picked up the phone and arranged an interview. After a career of typical high school jobs of making pizzas and dropping chicken into vats of boiling grease, my job application probably did not knock the store

LEONARD WOOLSEY

Columnist manager out of his shoe-fitting stool. But for some reason, the manager gave me a shot. Gordon was an interesting man. With his oversized-plastic glasses continually sliding down his nose, Gordon was what we called a Shoe Dog. Unpacking cardboard shipping boxes and carefully arranging each pair of shoes into a precise order along the half-dozen rows was his kingdom. But there was more. Gordon taught me to sell. “Walk up to the customer, greet them and offer to help them find something.” He made it sound so simple and effortless. But for me, it was terrifying. The first time I was left alone in the store I almost threw up in the backroom toilet. One day I remember hearing a lady with her small daughter on the next row looking for a pair of shoes

for Easter. With my back against a row of men’s work boots, my stomach began heaving and a wave of sweat washed over me like I was back shoving pizzas in a stone oven. I took a deep breath and forced myself around the corner offering to help. I don’t know if I sold a pair of shoes that day. But I do know I relived the same physical and emotional nightmare repeatedly until it one day, curiously, it faded away into the background. Soon I learned the art of meeting strangers, discovering common ground and finding a way to help them along the way. And to my surprise, this rewarding and empowering lesson altered the course of my life for the better. Today whenever I find myself facing an intimidating or stressful situation, I always remember standing with my back up against the wall of boots sweating and panting – trying to break free from the chains of self-doubt. And then suddenly, I know whatever is on the other side isn’t so scary after all. Leonard Woolsey is the president and publisher of The Daily News in Galveston, Texas.

THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

FEBRUARY 27, 2019 • PAGE 5

CommunityCalendar Wind Creek named among top Alabama hotels Submit calendar items: Participate in your Herald and Observer by calling 256-234-4281, faxing them to 256-234-6550, sending your event to the.editor@thewetumpkaherald.com or logging on to http://www.thewetumpkaherald.com/.

Saturday, March 2

• MARDI GRAS: The Order of Cimarrón will be holding its seventh annual Mardi Gras festival location in historic downtown Wetumpka beginning at 9 a.m. March 2. The event will be held rain or shine. Catch the beads, candies and tokens thrown from parade floats and visit vendor booths along South Main Street. • PAWDI GRAS: Please join all of us at Wetumpka’s PAWDI Gras, where you can dress up yourself and your pet and show off! We hope to have a huge doggy crowd there to celebrate Mardi Gras and the love we all have for our pets. PAWDI Gras is being held as part of The Order of Cimarrón’s Mardi Gras festival. • FLEA MARKET: Come out to Santuck Flea Market every first Saturday of the month. The flea market will be held at Plank Road Market in Santuck beginning at 5 a.m.

Friday, March 8

• CREEK INDIAN ODYSSEY: The Alabama River Region Ballet is proud to present “Creek Indian Odyssey” at the Davis Theatre for the Performing Arts at Troy University Montgomery. Performances will be held Friday, March 8 at 7 p.m., Saturday, March 9 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, March 10 at 2 p.m. This historic and inspiring ballet is something you won’t want to miss. Tickets

are on sale now and can be purchased online at www.riverregionballet.com

Tuesday, March 12

• LADIES’ NIGHT OUT: Market Shoppes on Hill Street will be holding a ladies’ night out event from 4 until 8 p.m. Join us for shopping, sales, wine, non-alcoholic beverages, appetizers, new arrivals and giveaways.

Friday, March 15

• GETTING DOWN WITH THE DAWGS: The annual Getting Down with the Dawgs $10,000 Drawdown fundraiser for the Humane Society of Elmore County will be held at the Entertainment Center of Wind Creek Wetumpka. Doors open at 5 p.m., dinner begins at 6, followed by the drawdown at 7. Each ticket holder and one guest will enjoy a great night of fun, buffet dinner/beverages while supporting our shelter. Tickets are on sale at the humane shelter, located at 255 Central Plank Road in Wetumpka, by calling 334-567-3377 or emailing hselco@bellsouth.net.

Saturday, March 30

• WETUMPKA UNITED: A night of laughs and music to bring the community together, the Wetumpka United concert will be held at Calvary Baptist Church, located at 504 West Osceola Street in Wetumpka. Doors open at 5 p.m. and the concert begins at 6.

STAFF REPORT TPI Staff

The Wind Creek Casino Hotel was ranked the ninthbest in the state by a recent U.S. News & World Report examination of luxury hotels nationwide. Seven of the state’s top 15 hotels rated by the magazine are part of the Resort Collection on the state’s Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, including three of the top four on the list (The Battle House Renaissance Mobile Hotel and Spa, the Grand Hotel Golf Resort and Spa in Baldwin County and the Marriott Shoals Hotel and Spa in Florence). Wind Creek’s Casino and Hotel in Atmore was eighth on the list. “When it comes to entertainment, dining and guest service, Wind Creek Hospitality takes pride in offering guests an escape from the ordinary,” Wind Creek Hospitality public relations director Magi Williams said in an email. “We strive to meet and exceed the highest standards in the industry; that’s why we are honored to have Wind Creek Atmore and Wind Creek Wetumpka included in U.S. News and World Report’s list of the Top 15 Best Hotels in Alabama. This recognition affirms that our properties are following through on their promise to create winning moments for guests around the state and across the world.” According to a statement

Donald Campbell / The Observer

Wind Creek in Wetumpka was named as one of the top 15 hotels in the state of Alabama by U.S. News & World Report.

from U.S. News & World Report, the magazine compiles its rankings by gathering lists of all hotels consistently receiving a hotel class rating of at least 3.5. The magazine

then reviews the awards each hotel has received, its class rating and ratings given to the hotel by its guests to calculate an overall total for each hotel being ranked.

Realtors donate $10K to Wetumpka police STAFF REPORT TPI Staff

Submitted / The Observer

The Montgomery Area Association of Realtors recently presented the Wetumpka Police Department with a $10,000 donation to help the department replace equipment damaged or destroyed during the Jan. 19 tornado. From left, 2018 association president Forrest Meadows, MLS president Paige Mock, 2019 association president Kim McElroy, Wetumpka Mayor Jerry Willis, MAAR treasurer Craig Schaid and MAAR secretary Bo Evans.

The Montgomery Area Association of Realtors made a $10,000 donation to the Wetumpka Police Department to help replace equipment damaged or destroyed during the Jan. 19 tornado. “These funds will go a long way to help us get back on our feet,” assistant chief Ed Reeves said in a press release. “We lost so much but donations like this from the Realtors go a long way in helping us do our job, which is to serve Wetumpka.” Association president Kim McElroy added, “Natural disasters are inevitable and the resulting needs are often great but I am proud to say that the Montgomery Area Association of Realtors has made helping others a priority.”

For many years the MAAR helped those in need by contributing to disaster relief funds of other organizations. However, since 2017, the association has gone directly to those in need. For example, following the devastation of Hurricane Harvey on Houston, the MAAR contributed $10,000 to the Texas Association of Realtors. In 2018, the MAAR donated $10,000 to the Panama City Association of Realtors to aid in recovery following Hurricane Michael. “We do this to help those in need but I want to highlight some of those contributions and thank our members for what they do,” McElroy said. “Now as we look back on the recent events in Wetumpka and the direct hit the city took from the tornado, my organization has again stepped up to the plate.”

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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.”

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PAGE 6 • FEBRUARY 27, 2019

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER

ClassiÄeds

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

The Dadeville Record

Employment

Employment

Job Opportunities

Wetumpka Area Wood Pallet Operation Needs:

HELP WANTED FLEA MARKET 706-801-5239

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

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

‡0DLQWHQDQFH 0LOOZULJKW Must have working knowledge of welding/ torching, hydraulics, pneumatics, and electrical systems. ‡3URGXFWLRQ 6XSHUYLVRU Report to Plant Manager and be hands on with people/equipment. Must be willing to operate equipment as needed. ‡0DFKLQH 2SHUDWRUV Operate wood sawing, stacking and nailing machinery.

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

The Eclectic Observer

Employment

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

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

NOW HIRING!!! ‡'LUHFWRU 3KDUPDF\ 6HUYLFHV ‡'LUHFWRU 0DWHULDO 0DQDJHPHQW ‡51 (5 5)7 SP DP ‡51 ,&8 5)7 SP DP Email resume to:

Blaine.Green@cvhealth.net

RU JR WR www.cvhealth.net EEO Employer M/F/D/V Drug-free-Workplace White Oak Transportation

is hiring CDL-A drivers in your area. Great Pay! ([FHOOHQW %HQHÂżWV Visit our website www.whiteoaktrans.com for more information EOE-M/F/D/V CARLISLE DRUG Full-Time position available for Soda Fountain. )RRG VHUYLFH FHUWLÂżFDWLRQ accepted but not required. Apply in person: 12 Main Street Alexander City,35010 No calls accepted!

Employment

We Are Looking to Fill the Following Positions: 1. RN/LPN Nursing Supervisor 2. Caregivers Provide appropriate care and supervision to Elderly and Disabled individuals. Call us at 256-342-5222 or email: aohcs08@gmail.com

Jobs Wanted

Apply at Bass Lumber RU FDOO

Shoneys of Wetumpka Now Hiring Manager Trainees, Cooks and Servers Apply within during business hours Monday-Friday: 4700 US Highway 231 EOE

The Tallassee Tribune

Looking for Janitorial work Part-time. Have References. Call Mike 256-786-9049

‡FULL-TIME PRN CNA’S (2PM-10PM) Shift Differential ‡LPN/RN CHARGE NURSE (7PM-7AM/FT) New Competitive Pay scale & Shift Differential Apply In Person Adams Health and Rehab 1555 Hillabee Street Alexander City Rebecca Clark (256)329-0847

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

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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 Now Hiring Experienced Mechanical/ Structural Draftsman SURÂżFLHQW LQ 'LPHQVLRQDO AutoCAD drafting. Contact Brown Machine & Fabrication, Inc. Alexander City, AL 0RQGD\ 7KXUVGD\

‡&HUWL¿HG 1XUVLQJ $VVLVWDQWV DP SP SP SP SP DP VKLIWV ([FHOOHQW SD\ DQG EHQH¿WV $SSO\ LQ SHUVRQ DW :DVKLQJWRQ 6WUHHW $OH[DQGHU &LW\ NOW HIRING ‡(PHUJHQF\ 5RRP )7 51 DP SP ‡37 6XUJLFDO 6FUXE 7HFK ‡)7 &513 :HWXPSND 3HGLDWULFV (PDLO UHVXPH OUD]LFN#LY\FUHHNKHDOWK FRP

Moco Transportation OTR Drivers Needed 25 yrs old, 2 yrs Exp. Hazmat Required. Good MVR. NO LOCAL RUNS Call: 1-800-328-3209 Hiring CDL Drivers, Backhoe Operators, and Laborers Must be highly motivated and able to follow directions Must have own transportation Please call: 334-322-4432

Bill Nichols State Veterans Home NOW-HIRING!!!

‡ SP DP /31 51 &KDUJH 1XUVH 6LJQ RQ %RQXV ‡0 ) 51 6XSHUYLVRU SP DP SP SP 6KLIWV %RWK ZLWK 6LJQ RQ %RQXV ‡3DUW 7LPH 'LHWDU\ $LGH ‡3DUW 7LPH +RXVHNHHSHU

Apply at: hmrveteranservices.com Contact:Brandy Holman 256-329-0868 ,I LQWHUHVWHG LQ WHDFKLQJ DUW FODVVHV RQ D YROXQWHHU EDVLV FRQWDFW 6KRQGD <RXQJ $'& 'LU RI 5HFUHDWLRQDO 6HUYLFHV ([W 1HHG WR ÂżQG WKH ULJKW FDQGLGDWH" Call 256-277-4219 WR SODFH \RXU DG LQ WKH FODVVLÂżHGV WRGD\ Selling your home? Advertise here and sell it faster. Call Classifieds at 256.277.4219.

Auctions & Sales Estate Sales Estate Sale March 1-2 9am-3pm only 344 Windsor Dr., Alexander City Household items Selling your home? Advertise here and sell it faster. Call Classifieds at 256.277.4219.

The Wetumpka Herald

PUZZLES & HOROSCOPE ARIES (March 21-April 19) Be more creative. After a meeting, you will want to continue a conversation. You could Ă„nd a diɈerence of opinion to be somewhat stressful. Your Ă„ery side expresses itself. What you feel is right, but you will get an earful. Tonight: Put on your dancing shoes. TAURUS (April 20-May 20) Express your point of view. You might not receive the results you desire. Make an eɈort to keep complications out of your life. You could overthink a problem, making you hesitant to take the next step. Tonight: With a favorite loved one. GEMINI (May 21-June 20) Reach out for a loved one at a distance. You often wonder what is going on around you, though you enjoy the activity. An element of confusion surrounds you. You need to plug in your high energy to some pastime. Tonight: Relax and let oɈ steam. CANCER (June 21-July 22) You want to move in a new direction emotionally, but you cannot easily catch up on certain details to resolve the present confusion. You might want to relax more than you have in the recent past. You will see your eɉciency heightened as a result. Tonight: Squeeze in some exercise. LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) You will see what is happening around you, but it might take a touch of creativity. Others have very diɈerent ideas that point in another direction. Confusion could mess up your plans. Tonight: Deal with someone who often puts you on a pedestal. VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) You are able to do more than usual. Find out what works for you when having a discussion that takes you in a new direction. Listen to news and be willing to change gears if need be. You want to reach out to someone at a distance.

Tonight: Allow others to come forward. LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) Defer to a co-worker who understands more than you about an immediate problem. You can accomplish the lion’s share of your work. Nevertheless, pay attention to where there could be confusion. Your anger could trigger another party, making a situation diɉcult. Tonight: Speak your mind diplomatically. SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) Curb a tendency to go overboard. Optimism comes easily at this moment, but make sure you cross your t’s and dot your i’s. Be aware of how drained you might be from recent events. Decide what would be best to do if you’re not feeling well. Tonight: Relax and join a friend. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) You can get a lot done and Ă„gure out what is going on, but your fatigue builds. Know when to stop and relax. Others will naturally relax as well and get out of your way. Your energy is much stronger than you realize. Tonight: Let your hair down. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) You might not be able to handle all the pressure you’re under. If you follow your sixth sense, you will land on your feet. Avoid taking advice; you need to hear your inner voice. Act on this voice. Tonight: Know when to call it a night. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) One-on-one relating draws attention. You could work through a problem involving a friend. You will be a lot happier if going out and joining friends. When the unexpected occurs, your ability to adapt emerges. Tonight: Where your friends are. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20) You will be more forthright than you have been for a while. Your ability to move through problems is essential to an oɈer someone makes you. Today is about how you deal with others. Tonight: Could go to the wee hours.

THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

FEBRUARY 27, 2019 • PAGE 7

Commission

continued from Page 1

The commission passed a resolution recognizing Stanhope Elmore student Chloe Wegner for her recent crowning as Miss Alabama High School 2019. Wegner briefly spoke to the commission, detailing how she used the platform of the competition to speak about anti-bullying efforts and would be spreading this message to schools throughout the state in the coming weeks. She also said she was preparing for the national competition in Little Rock, Arkansas. “It’s always an honor to have our young people here with us,â€? commission chair Troy Stubbs said. “We look forward to your success.â€? In other action at the meeting: • The memorandum of warrants between Feb. 2 and 20, totaling $1,221,873, was approved.

• The commission scheduled a public hearing March 11 regarding a retail beer and retail table wine liquor application for Lake Jordan Bait and Tackle on Lightwood Road in Deatsville. • The commission heard from Guy Sanders of Alabama Pro Packaging, a company which once supplied items such as paper products and cleaning supplies to the county. Sanders asked about trying to get back into an agreement with the county but Stubbs said the county obtains supplies through a company on the state bid list since the county consolidated its purchasing of such items. Stubbs encouraged Sanders to apply to be placed on the state bid list with enough time for it to prepare budgets for fiscal year 2020. • A memorandum of understanding with the Central Alabama Electric

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Garage Sales Moving Sale 2025 Flinn Rd Pike Road Saturday, March 2 7:00a.m.-2:00p.m. Furniture, medical supplies, wheelchair, walker, washer, dryer, refrigerator, freezer, tools, Easter decorations.

Merchandise Antiques & Collectibles Antique Mahogany Drop Leaf Table, Butcher Block Table Antique Mahogany Drop Leaf Table great condition $350 Butcher Block Table $300 Dark Cherry Formal Dining Table with two leafs $200 334-399-2414

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Rentals Apartments

Heating Season Assistance Starts December 15th, 8:00am for Chilton/Elmore/ Autauga & Shelby Counties. Appointment Lines: Chilton/Elmore/Autauga: 205-287-0139 Shelby: 205-610-8916 Online: eaaoac.cascheduler.com 11th Area of Alabama O.A.C.

Available Now!! AVAILABLE NOW!!! 3BR-starting at $478 2BR-starting at $419 1BR-starting at $374 Kitchen furnished w/appliances, sewer/water/garbage services provided. Highland Ridge Apartments located in Goodwater. 2IÂżFH KRXUV SP SP &DOO

2004 White Ford Mustang 40th Anniversary Edition 3.9 V-6 engine, 115K miles Asking $4,990 Call 256-392-3429

1993 14-foot Sylvan V-hull Boat w/drive-on trailer, 30 HP Evinrude motor, live well, WUROOLQJ PRWRU GHSWK ÂżQGHU rod holders. Asking $2800 Call Tom @ 256-307-1423

Motorcycles & ATV’s

WE CAN HELP. Reach the county market for less using the classifieds. Need a quick quote? Call 256.277.4219

Call or go online to browse, buy or sell!

CLASSIFIEDS

256.277.4219

ATTENTION VETERANS!!! Served between 2003 and 2015? Deployed to Iraq or Afghanistan? ,ĂǀĞ ĹšÄžÄ‚ĆŒĹ?ĹśĹ? ĹŻĹ˝Ć?Ć? Ĺ˝ĆŒ Ć&#x;ŜŜĹ?ƚƾĆ? ÍžZĹ?ĹśĹ?Ĺ?ĹśĹ? Ĺ?Ĺś ÄžÄ‚ĆŒĆ?ÍżÍ?

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Services

State ClassiďŹ ed

Appliance Service

AlaScans SERVICES LEADING SMART home provider Vivint Smart Home has an offer just for you. Call 1-877-220-8817 to get a professionally installed home security system with $0 activation.

Need appliance or air conditioner parts? +RZ DERXW D ZDWHU ÂżOWHU IRU \RXU UHIULJHUDWRU" We have it all at A-1 Appliance Parts! Call 1-800-841-0312 www.A-1Appliance.com

Need to find the right employee?

WE CAN HELP. Reach the county market for less using the classifieds. Need a quick quote? Call 256.277.4219

1995 Harley Davison Softail Custom Lots of extras 16,800 actual miles. 6200.00 dollars. Bike is in great shape. (256)596-2394

Duplexes for Rent

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• The commission approved a resolution for Courtney Clements to fill the position of county safety coordinator to stay in line with its insurance policies. • The regular consent docket was approved. The next meeting of the Elmore County Commission will be held at 5 p.m. Monday, March 11 in the courtroom of the Elmore County Courthouse.

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Cooperative was approved relating to the cooperative’s broadband efforts. The cooperative currently operates along the county right of way and is interested in expanding broadband service in the county, although it wanted to receive the thumbs-up from the commission. “Lack of broadband has been a top issue for us,â€? commissioner Bart Mercer said, although he added the county has chosen not to move too quickly on the matter, as moving too fast can turn into a disaster. • The commission approved a memorandum of understanding, as well as a pair of resolutions on a Community Development Block Grant and a grant through the Appalachian Regional Council to help fund construction for the planned Elmore County Primary Care Center.

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Sports

Visit our sister website: TallasseeTribune.com FEBRUARY 27, 2019 • PAGE 9

The

Observer

All-County Girls Basketball Team Coach of the Year

Player of the Year

Rachel leads Panthers back to sub-regionals By CALEB TURRENTINE Sports Writer

Over the last few years, the Elmore County girls basketball program has seen its largest streak of sustained success since the turn of the century. Coach Amy Rachel was back at the helm for her seventh season this year and the Panthers won 16 games for the first time since 2002 on their way to another sub-regional appearance. She is the AllCounty Girls Basketball Coach of the Year. The Panthers were coming off four consecutive area championships but a change in the area alignment had Elmore County face off against a tough schedule. The season eventually came to an end in the sub-regional with a 58-41 See RACHEL • Page 10 File / The Observer

Stanhope Elmore’s Alisson Evans (22) is the All-County Girls Basketball Player of the Year after averaging a double-double on the season.

Evans breaks out in final season at SEHS By CALEB TURRENTINE Sports Writer

The Stanhope Elmore girls basketball team needed to find production on the court from someone this season but it was not quite sure who would take the reins. It did not take long for senior Alisson Evans to step up both on and off the court for the Mustangs this season.

“She meant a lot to our program,” Stanhope Elmore coach Kelvin Stokes said. “She came to play every game and put that hard work in every day. We prevailed to the sub-region this year because of her play.” Evans, a four-year starter at Stanhope who is the AllCounty Girls Basketball Player of the Year, led the Mustangs to 11 wins this season, the most of her high school

career. While her defense and rebounding ability was always apparent, Evans took over on the offensive end and led the Mustangs in scoring this season. After scoring a total of 330 points during her first three seasons, Evans averaged 18.4 points per game across Stanhope’s 27-game season. She accounted for 47 percent See EVANS • Page 10

File / The Observer

Elmore County’s Amy Rachel is the All-County Girls Basketball Coach of the Year.

FIRST TEAM Guard: Brooke Burkett Stanhope Elmore sophomore Burkett has already played three seasons with the varsity team at Stanhope Elmore but she took things to another level this season. She averaged 11 points and eight assists to go along with 2.3 steals per game. One of Burkett’s biggest performances of the season came in the area tournament against Wetumpka as her 20 points and eight assists sent Stanhope into the area championship. “She has always been that girl that I put our offense in her hands,” Stanhope coach Kelvin Stokes said. “She’s come so far this season. When Brooke goes, our team goes so I’m looking forward to seeing her in her junior year and her senior year.”

Guard: Madison Traylor, Elmore County senior Traylor has been the key to Elmore County’s success on the court for most her high school career. This season, Traylor set career highs in points, rebounds and steals. She led the team with 16.5 points per game and 10.7 rebounds per game while recording 17 double-doubles. Traylor’s biggest game of the season came against Booker T. Washington in the area tournament when she scored 27 points and grabbed 16 rebounds to help send the Panthers into the sub-regional round for the sixth consecutive season. “She knew this was going to be her last season playing basketball so she put in the hard work early in the offseason,” Elmore County coach Amy Rachel said. “She was getting workouts in a 5 a.m. and that’s stuff you can’t teach a kid to do. Everything she does, she’s doing her best to excel at it.”

Guard: CJ Weldon Edgewood senior Weldon entered the season with high expectations for herself and from her teammates. The Wildcats thrived off shooting from deep and Weldon was the top 3-point shooter on the team. She knocked down 68 3-pointers across the team’s 26 games. Weldon led the Wildcats with 11.9 points per game and scored the 1,000th point of her career during the team’s postseason run to the Elite Eight. “She’s one of these players that leads with her effort,” Edgewood coach Jay Adams said. “They look to her to be the heart of that offense and when she’s on, we’re on.”

Forward: Lacondra Paschal Wetumpka senior Wetumpka struggled to find success on offense all season but Paschal seemed to always be the solution. She scored in double figures four times this season, including a 16-point performance against Elmore County in the Elmore County Tournament. Paschal finished the season with an average of 5.8 points per game, leading Wetumpka with a total of 119 points. She also led the team in steal and shot 42 percent from the field. “Lacondra’s leadership and experience has been great for us this season,” Wetumpka coach Jermel Bell said. “She worked hard every day during the offseason and at practices. She encouraged and motivated her teammates by her actions on and off the court.”

Forward: Ciarra Sullen, Tallassee senior After winning a total of 29 games during her first three seasons in high school, Sullen was staring at Tallassee’s 2-15 record after a tough start to the season. However, the Tigers found a way to battle back, winning four of their final eight games and Sullen was right in the middle of that success. She averaged 9.1 points, 4.1 rebounds and 1.5 steals per game during her final season. “Ciarra is a great motivator for the team,” Tallassee coach Harold Harris said. “She understood that winning was important but learning how to compete and put forth effort was needed. She kept the team tied together as a family.”

HONORABLE MENTION CK Bolton, Fr., G, Elmore County; Lindan Oliver, Jr., G, Tallassee; Leanna Moorer, Sr., G, Holtville; Madison Britt, So., F, Elmore County; Avery Roberts, Sr., F, Edgewood

PAGE 10 • FEBRUARY 27, 2019

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER

PANTHERS SWEPT AWAY Late goal gives Indians win over ECHS By CALEB TURRENTINE Sports Writer

Elmore County erased two deficits on Thursday night but Wetumpka came out on top after a late goal from Arthur Davis gave the Indians a 3-2 win in boys soccer at Hohenberg Field. Kaio Pelogia broke through the midfield before sliding the ball past the defense to Davis who slotted it past the keeper with less than three minutes to go. “We were running out of time and I knew we just needed a big play,” Davis said. “I saw the ball and took my opportunity. I saw the two center backs go toward (Pelogia) so I just called for the ball. He heard me and made a great pass and luckily I scored.” Wetumpka (2-1-2) controlled the game in the first half but came up empty on its first two chances in the opening Caleb Turrentine / The Observer 10 minutes. Despite offside appeals from Elmore Wetumpka’s Brennan Worrell (3) and Elmore County’s Devin Dewberry (10) battle for the ball during Thursday night’s match. County, the Indians got on the scoreboard in the “We really wanted to the ball, beating the goalElmore County forward 13th minute after Manny dominate more,” Davis keeper with a left-footed Jason Aguilar did not get Castellanos turned in a said. “We like to be the many chances but he took shot from the edge of the free kick from Brennan box. Aguilar had a chance aggressors but when they advantage of them when Worrell. scored, I guess we lost three minutes later but they came. Luke Tessier had two Wetumpka’s Zach Grindle a little hope. We always After an errant back chances in the next eight made the save to keep the fight back though.” pass from a Wetumpka minutes but could not See BOYS • Page 12 defender, Aguilar raced to game tied at 1-1. add to Wetumpka’s lead.

Caleb Turrentine / The Observer

Elmore County winger Raney Jones (15) attempts to make a tackle on a Wetumpka player during Thursday’s game at Hohenberg Field.

ECHS held scoreless in loss at Wetumpka By CALEB TURRENTINE Sports Writer

Three different players found the back of the net as the Wetumpka girls soccer team grabbed its first victory of the year with a 4-0 win over Elmore County on Thursday night. Wetumpka goalkeeper Jeweliana Holton finished the match with six saves for her second clean sheet in the last three games. “She’s doing great right now and she’s only in seventh grade,” Wetumpka coach Jessica Holbert said. “We were torn between two but See GIRLS • Page 12

Evans

continued from Page 9

File / The Observer

Stanhope Elmore’s Alisson Evans, right, led the Mustangs in points, rebounds and blocks this season.

of the team’s points this season. “I’m excited for her because she’s worked hard for this recognition,” Stokes said. “She’s always led by example. Night in and night out, she gave everything she had on the court.” Evans also averaged 14.6 rebounds and 5.4 blocks per game. She recorded 24 double-doubles, including three against Wetumpka, which she said stands out the most. “My best game was probably the one at Wetumpka,” Evans said. “We started off really bad but we knew that’s what we were working for and we wanted it.” After dropping the first game of the series at home, Stanhope fell behind by 17 points at halftime on the road. The Mustangs fought back and Evans scored eight points in the overtime period to secure the team’s first area victory of the season. Evans finished that game with 27 points, 16 rebounds, four blocks and three steals. She added another double-double in the victory over Wetumpka in the area tournament which sent the Mustangs into the sub-regional round. “We all came together and played as a team this year,” Evans said. “We played better together and when the team was better, I played better.” While Evans said it was not clear to her

where her biggest improvement was on the court, she credited herself with becoming a better leader during her senior season. Evans said she used to be the quiet one but she had to come out of her shell a little bit and Stokes said that was clear. “Honestly, it was just her mindset,” Stokes said. “Most athletes are going to reach that potential their senior year. When reality set in that this was going to be it for her, she knew she had to step it up. She started showing that she wanted it more.” Stokes was the head coach for all four seasons of Evans’ high school career. He said he always saw the potential there and Evans worked hard to be where she is today. “I always held her to that high standard of consistency,” Stokes said. “We’ve always challenged her here and she has risen to that. She has so much more room to grow though so I’m looking forward to seeing her develop more in college.” Evans had multiple offers from community college around the state to play basketball at the next level. She said she expects to sign her letter of intent to play basketball at Huntingdon College some time over the next week. “That means a lot to me,” Evans said. “Since I was young, all I wanted was to play basketball past the high school level. This is what I’ve worked so hard for.”

Rachel loss at No. 3 Childersburg, a team which is participating in the Class 4A Final Four in Birmingham this week. “There was a lot of good competition we lost to this season,” Rachel said. “We start counting up those 11 losses and you see it is a lot of worthy opponents. I’m still very pleased with how we played and how we finished the season.” Seven of the team’s 11 losses came against opponents which made it to their regional tournaments. Two of the other four losses were against B. T. Washington, both of which Elmore County avenged with a win in the area tournament. Despite losing a starter to a late-season injury, Rachel led the Panthers into the area tournament with confidence. Elmore County faced BTW in the first round and needed a victory to extend its season. Madison Traylor was a key to the team’s success all season and the Panthers relied on her heavily in that game. Elmore County came away with a 45-42 victory behind 27 points from Traylor and Rachel said Traylor’s leadership made the job a lot easier. “She handled that pressure

continued from Page 9

File / The Observer

Elmore County coach Amy Rachel, right, helped the Panthers make their sixth consecutive appearance in the first round of the state tournament.

well but we had to have other kids step up to support her,” Rachel said. “She really took it in stride and pushed her teammates to be better. But she did that by showing them what to do instead of just telling them. That’s something you

can’t coach.” Traylor, who surpassed 1,000 career points this season, was one of three senior starters on the team this season. She has been playing on varsity since her eighth-grade year and said Rachel has been like

a second mom to her over the years. “She has helped us grow into the people we are now,” Traylor said. “She means so much to us. She told us to make sure we didn’t have any regrets and to leave everything

out on the court. She made us cherish this last year together.” With four seniors on the team, Traylor said Rachel made them realize this would be the last chance they had to play together and it pushed them to be better. The senior class never missed a sub-regional but Rachel said their leadership qualities have prepared the next group. “That is exactly in line with where we want to be,” Rachel said. “The younger ones have had excellent examples from our seniors. They are leaving their fingerprints all over this program.” Sophomore Madison Britt and freshman CK Bolton had breakout seasons and Rachel said she will be expecting more from them moving forward. And while the success on the court is clear to see, Rachel said she wants the program to be known for more than the final scoreboard. “Of course, we want to win and be successful but it’s about more than that,” Rachel said. “We want to make sure those things translate into real life. You start doing all of those things right, wins will come with that.”

THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER

CALEB TURRENTINE Sports Writer

Allow athletes to make their own decisions

W

hen a high school student becomes a college athlete, it feels like everyone in the world has an opinion on how the next four years of this young person’s life should go. From someone sending angry tweets to recruits for not selecting their favorite school to calling a 21-year old selfish for sitting out a meaningless bowl game to make sure they can still have a future, it can get ugly. Last Wednesday, Duke basketball player Zion Williamson blew through his shoe and injured his knee on the play. He still has not returned to the court for the Blue Devils and it has sparked a debate on whether he should risk his NBA draft stock by playing another college game. Williamson is projected to be the top pick in the 2019 NBA Draft and has had one of the biggest brands for an 18-yearold athlete in the world. However, because you have to be 19 to enter the NBA Draft, Williamson, like many others, was forced to go to college for one season. Yes, college is a great opportunity and there are plenty of examples of why having a degree makes for a better life. However, if any of us had an opportunity to sign a multi-million dollar contract in your desired field straight out of high school, I’m not sure there would have been many people second guessing your decision. Now, everyone has an opinion on whether Williamson should return to the court. On one side, people say he committed to playing for Duke and he would be selfish to abandon his teammates in the middle of the season. Sure, I get that I guess but that argument will hold credibility only when it comes from one of his teammates — not an angry basketball fan that is upset his favorite team could get worse. On the other side, people want to tell Williamson to get healthy and make that money. The top three picks in the NBA Draft will make an average of $6 million during their rookie seasons. While I lean toward being more understanding of the latter, the main point is it is the athlete’s decision to make. If Williamson wants to get back out and play the game he loves then he should do it. If he and his family believe the best decision would be to sit out and completely heal before doing draft workouts in the summer, he should do that. This is not close to the first case of this decision needing to be made and it likely will not be the last. However, it seems like a simple solution would be to go back to the old format with some new twists. The NBA first adopted the one-anddone rule in 2006, allowing any player to enter the NBA Draft after just one year of playing in college. Other options started to pop up, such as spending the year between high school and NBA in Europe and what is now the G-League. So why can’t we make all of these options available for athletes? If an 18-year-old believes he or she is ready to play in the NBA or WNBA, they should be allowed to hire an agent and enter the draft. Some teams will take the chance on the talent they see and some will not. In basketball and football, if an athlete hires an agent, they lose college eligibility and cannot return to play for the NCAA. However, in other sports such as hockey and baseball, the rules are different. Hiring an agent can get you in front of professional teams so you can have a better grasp of your draft stock. In the NHL and MLB Drafts, an athlete can get drafted and still decide to return to college, they just have to cut ties with the agent before the NCAA year begins. These athletes should have all of these options available to them. They are the reason the NCAA is bringing in hundreds of millions of dollars every year but they still don’t get a dime from it. We all want to pretend it is about the athletes but it never seems like the people in charge care about what is best for the players. And most of the fans just care about seeing results on the field or on the court. Make sure the best options are available to every athlete and allow them to make their own decision. It should not be any more difficult than that. Caleb Turrentine is a sports writer for The Observer.

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

FEBRUARY 27, 2019 • PAGE 11

Maddox gets $1,000 scholarship at NWTF banquet By DONALD CAMPBELL Staff Writer

The Wetumpka Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation presented a $1,000 scholarship to Elmore County High School senior Dalton Maddox at its annual banquet Thursday night. By winning the local scholarship competition, Maddox qualified to compete for a $2,500 scholarship offered by the state federation. If Maddox receives the state scholarship, he would compete for the national $25,000 scholarship from the NWTF, the federation’s Archie Burchard Jr. said. Following graduation, Maddox said he plans to attend Central Alabama Community College in Alexander City and study criminal justice and law enforcement with the ultimate desire of working for a law enforcement agency such as the FBI. “I started getting interested in a criminal justice degree about two years ago,” Maddox said. “This scholarship will definitely help me. I felt pretty proud of myself to receive this scholarship.” Attendees who filled the Wetumpka Civic Center had dinner and raised more funds for projects the organization supports.

Donald Campbell / The Observer

Dalton Maddox, a senior at Elmore County High School, was presented a $1,000 scholarship during the National Wild Turkey Federation’s annual banquet and fundraiser.

“We appreciate everybody coming out tonight,” Burchard said. “Tonight has been very successful for everybody.” During the banquet and fundraiser, guests enjoyed a dinner of barbecue chicken and ribs, baked beans and potato salad while bidding on a wide range of items available in a silent auction. Attendees also purchased raffle tickets to win hunting rifles and shotguns along with other hunting gear such as tree stands. Once the silent auction

closed, items including paintings and a turkey statue were put up for sale in a live auction, which featured 10 wooden turkey calls used as “tickets” for the final giveaway of the night, a top-of-the-line shotgun featuring a specialized camouflage pattern and the National Wild Turkey Federation logo. With the money the event has raised in the past, the local chapter of the NWTF has held a special youth day at Fort Toulouse in June along with other

hunting-based events for local children, including deer hunting and dove hunting with the state federation. Although Burchard could not estimate how much Thursday night’s event had brought in, he said the banquet and fundraiser were successful. “I think this event makes everybody feel like a part of our community,” Burchard said. “We are trying to pass our hunting heritage on to future generations.”

Panthers run into tough competition at tourney STAFF REPORT TPI Staff

The Elmore County softball team could not find consistency at the plate during last weekend’s tournament at Brewbaker Tech in Montgomery. The Lady Panthers won just one game before being eliminated by a 4-2 loss to Montgomery Catholic on Saturday afternoon. Elmore County was without a victory after the first day of the tournament. The team recorded just three hits, two by pitcher Maci Curlee, during the 8-0 loss to Saint James in the opener. The Lady Panthers followed that up with a 3-2 loss to Charles Henderson, losing on a walk-off home run in the bottom of the fifth inning. Elmore County got only one hit in the game, a

two-run homer from Kelina Daniels. The team bounced back the next day with a 12-2 victory against Trinity to stay alive in the tournament. Daniels, Madison Britt, Mackenzie Lewis and Madelyn Becker each recorded two RBIs in the victory. Britt led the team with four hits and reached base seven times in just nine plate appearances. Daniels finished the tournament with five RBIs and scored three runs.

BASEBALL Elmore County grabs win in season opener

Landon Maynard and Austin Downey both took the mound in Saturday’s season opener, leading the Panthers to an 8-3 victory over Reeltown. Maynard got the start

and the win for the Panthers while Downey showed off his skills both on the mound and at the plate. Elmore County took a 3-0 lead in the second inning after a two-run single by Chase Wilson and the Panthers did not give up the lead. Maynard pitched four innings, allowing just three hits and two runs, but struggled with his command and walked four batters before being pulled. Downey, who already had an RBI single in the third inning, pitched the final three innings of the game to close out the Rebels. He allowed one hit and one unearned run while striking out six batters. Taylor Henderson added a two-run triple in the sixth inning to add to the Panthers lead. Downey led the team with three hits and two RBIs.

Mentored hunts renew enthusiasm for hunters By DAVID RAINER Department of Conservation and Natural Resources

One of the mantras adopted by those who love the outdoors is “pass it on,” which means introducing somebody to hunting, fishing or other outdoors activities when you get the opportunity. For the Alabama Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries (WFF) Division, one facet of that effort comes in the form of the Adult Mentored Hunting Program, where seasoned hunters take new or inexperienced adult hunters to one of WFF’s Special Opportunity Areas (SOAs) for a weekend in the woods hunting deer, turkeys or small game. What WFF has realized is the mentors, who have many years of experience in the hunting field, are benefitting from their role as much or more than the folks who are being mentored. One case in point is Bill Gray, Supervising Wildlife Biologist in WFF’s District IV. The longtime WFF biologist was admittedly reluctant to head out just before Christmas to fulfill a mentor’s role at the hunt at the Portland Landing SOA. By the end of the weekend, Gray had a new outlook on the experience, and he had gained a new friend. “When you’ve hunted for a long time, you take a lot of things for granted,” Gray said. “You kind of lose the magic like when you were young and first learning to hunt. “Through the progression over the weekend, I got to watch him (James Hopper) learn and be excited and notice some things that were special to him.” One example was how excited Hopper became when he viewed a deer for the first time through a riflescope. “That was an eye-opener for me and how important this program can be and what a great opportunity we have to share our world as hunters,”

Billy Pope / Dept. of Conservation and Natural Resources

WFF Wildlife Chief Keith Gauldin shows Adult Mentored Hunt participants how to look for deer sign, like this rub on a cedar tree.

Gray said. “Really for me, it was a way for me to bring back some of that wide-eyed wonder and true joy. “It’s not that I don’t enjoy hunting anymore. I do. I love it, but you get kind of numb to some of the things that are old hat to you. To these guys, it’s not. And to see how excited they get has renewed my interest in hunting and being able to usher more people across that threshold who may be interested in becoming a hunter.” On Hopper’s first hunt, the deer came in late and were too far for his comfort zone in terms of making a quality shot. On the second day, a buck came through about 35-40 yards from the blind, but Gray had to make sure the deer met the minimum requirements for harvest. By the time Gray saw the deer, it was weaving through the trees and disappeared. Gray said Hopper couldn’t hide his

disappointment on Sunday morning when the rest of the hunt’s participants were busy cleaning deer and feral hogs. “I said I’ve got to try to help this out,” Gray said. “We exchanged phone numbers. I got him down to my place the first week in January. He drove five hours south to my place in Barbour County.” One of those aspects of hunting that experience often mitigates turned into the deciding factor on the Barbour County hunt. “He came very close to taking a deer,” Gray said. “But he spooked the deer with the safety. He was using the safety like he was taught on the range. When he clicked that safety off, he said the deer trotted away and didn’t look back. I didn’t think to show him how to put some downward pressure on the safety and slide it forward real See HUNTS • Page 12

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TheWetumpkaHerald.com

Girls Jeweliana had more experience in goal. She has surprised me and done even better than what I expected.” Holton did not see much action in the first half as Wetumpka dominated possession in the first 40 minutes of the match. The Indians had several chances early and found the back of the net in the 17th minute to take the lead. Marley Candelaria swung in a free kick from 35 yards out and Emily Smith found herself on the end of it. Smith poked the ball past the keeper to put Wetumpka in front for good. The Indians (1-13) were benefitted by an Elmore County own goal in the 23rd minute after a shot from Ellen Anne Singleton was deflected past the goalie. Madyson Jost scored Wetumpka’s third goal of the night with a shot from 30 yards out with under seven minutes to go in the first half. “In the last few games we’ve had, that’s something we have needed,” Holbert said. “When those outside shots fall, sometimes you’re able to open up the inside. That was nice to see.” Elmore County (0-5-0) came out of the halftime break with more energy. The Panthers had four shots saved by Holton in the first 15 minutes of the second half. “We made some adjustments at halftime,” Elmore County coach Angie Simmons said. “We pushed Joya (Kiwele) up into the midfield and she got the ball forward more. And we had a conversation with our defense to push

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THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER

Caleb Turrentine / The Observer

Elmore County’s Cameron Bailey (18) tries to push Wetumpka’s Leo Castellanos off the ball

Boys

Caleb Turrentine / The Observer

Elmore County’s Raney Jones (15) dribbles through the midfield during Thursday’s night’s game at Wetumpka.

up the field more and that helped a lot.” Raney Jones was the biggest threat going forward for the Panthers. She had four shots on goal in the game, including two in a span of 45 seconds in the 49th minute to force big saves from Holton. “She is really good but she’s out there trying to do everything on the field,” Simmons said of Jones. “She’s a strong competitor and that’s a good thing. She can play anywhere but she has to learn to play the position we have her in.” Wetumpka added its fourth goal of the night in the 57th minute when an Elmore County

defender blocked an incoming cross, deflecting it outside of the box. Grayson Singleton took the shot first time from 25 yards and put it over the goalkeeper’s head to put a cap on Wetumpka’s 4-0 win. Wetumpka will be back in action at home Thursday night against Pike Road before starting area play against Stanhope Elmore on Saturday. Holbert said she believes the win over Elmore County can propel the Indians forward. “I think this is going to help a lot. We haven’t been playing well together a lot,” Holbert said. “We get experience with each game and that’s why I knew we

needed to play this game. We wanted more playing time.” Elmore County has yet to find the back of the net this season but Simmons said there were still a lot of positives from Thursday night’s loss. The Panthers have now started area play and will need to find a solution to their attacking play soon. “We have to take moral victories with the record we have right now,” Simmons said. “With the team as young as they are, we have to take those positives and show the girls what they’re doing well. The score didn’t show it but we all saw improvement.”

Wetumpka grabbed the lead again just before the break when Castellanos and Worrell connected again. Castellanos made a pass just outside the box, allowing Worrell to cut inside of two defenders and release a left-footed shot which bounced off the post and into the back of the net. “In the last few games, when things started to shift, we didn’t respond as well as we needed to,” Wetumpka coach Desmond Knight said. “But in this game, every time they had an answer, we countered with something and stayed in front.” The Panthers (1-4-1) came out of halftime with more energy and had more chances to score. In the 49th minute, Aguilar found himself one on one with the goalkeeper and put the ball into the bottom left corner to even the score again. “It’s important to always know you’re in the game,” Elmore County coach John Hilbish said. “We just told our guys that we are a better team than they are. They just needed more confidence in themselves.” The game started to slow down in the middle of the second half as the game became more physical and both teams were without a shot on goal for a 13-minute span. Things took a quick turn when Elmore County looked to take a 3-2 lead in the 63rd minute. The Panthers played a ball over the top of Wetumpka’s defense and forward TK Barris beat Grindle to the ball, sending the ball toward the goal. However, Wetumpka left back Leo Castellanos slid in to knock the ball off the line to keep the game level. “Leo is one of those guys we ask to do a lot,” Knight said. “He’s a defender but he was a part of the attack a lot tonight. For him to put in those miles and then make a stop like that, that felt like it took the wind out of Elmore County and empowered our guys to stick with it.” Aguilar had another shot saved with 11 minutes to go but that was the last attack of the night for the Panthers. Elmore County spent most of its night on the counter attack and finished with five shots on target. “I think if we passed the ball more we would have more chances than we had today,” Aguilar said. “We just have to keep practicing and come back to play hard next game.” The late goal from Davis gave Wetumpka its second win in the last three matches. The Indians will be back in action tomorrow night with a home match against Pike Road before traveling to Stanhope on Saturday to begin area play. “That’s definitely a big boost to morale for us,” Knight said. “The momentum we have to build off now is great. We’re finally starting to click. They gritted that one out.” Elmore County is hoping to bounce back quickly from the loss with area play starting this week. Hilbish is still staying positive despite the Panthers’s streak of five games without a victory. “They still believe what I tell them,” Hilbish said. “They know what they’re potential is and they know how good they can be. When we get a dry field to play on again, we’ll be a different team.” Elmore County responded with a 5-4 win over Chilton County on Saturday. The Panthers got two goals from Kevin Jenkins and one each from Barris, Devin Dewberry and Alex Simmons.

Hunts quietly. As much as he has to learn about being a good hunter, I have as much to learn about being a good mentor. “But he was very excited and not dejected about not getting a buck for the second time. I sent him home with some deer meat, and they loved it.” Since then, Hopper purchased a deer rifle similar to the one he used on the mentored hunt to get ready for a new season. “Part of my experience was I felt like I made a new friend,” Gray said. “We weren’t able to get together before the season ended, but I’m as excited about being there with him when he gets his first deer as he is about getting his first deer.” As unlucky as Gray’s hunter was, Drew Nix had the opposite experience on his mentored hunt at the Cedar Creek SOA. Nix, the WFF Forester, has been mentoring hunters for many, many years and has recruited quite a few people into the realm of license-buying hunters. Nix said those people he introduced to hunting included youth, adult non-hunters and physically disabled individuals. His hunter on the Cedar Creek SOA happened to be a person who was very familiar with firearms, a retired Army guy who now serves as a military contractor to teach marksmanship. “He was from rural New York and was very well-versed in firearms, but he had never been hunting,” Nix said. “During his active duty, he never had the opportunity to

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Billy Pope / Dept. of Conservation and Natural Resources

WFF’s Drew Nix shows members of the Adult Mentored Hunt what properly placed game cameras can reveal about a hunting area.

pursue hunting.” On the adult mentored hunts, the person who draws the spot is allowed to bring a hunting companion. However, sickness forced the hunter’s companion to drop out. The hunter was then given permission to bring his 11-year-old son. On the first hunt, several deer came into one of the fields that had recently been constructed on the SOA, including one buck that met the criteria for permissible harvest. “I told the gentleman it was a legal buck, but I would wait because we were sitting on an exceptional piece of property,” Nix said. “He held his composure. After about 10 minutes,

no other deer came in. He said, ‘If you’re telling me that’s a legal deer, I would like to go ahead and harvest that deer.’” Nix said when the hunter got the rifle up he noticed a significant anomaly. “It cracked me up,” he said. “From the waist up, he was rock solid. From the waist down, it was like a small earthquake was going on. His legs were vibrating the whole blind. “But he took a good shot and made a clean kill. The deer ran out of the food plot about 5 yards. He and his son were really charged up and wanted to put their hands on the deer, but I told them to wait and see if a doe came in. Sure

enough, he took a doe later that afternoon with another clean, ethical shot. They were just ecstatic.” The hunter even added another doe to his take before the weekend was over, which meant he went home with a cooler stuffed with venison. “When we were butchering the deer, the guy I mentored let me get finished with half of the first deer and then he took over,” Nix said. “He pretty well cleaned and quartered the rest of the deer. Then he called his buddies and had a processor lined up in Pelham before he left Cedar Creek.” Nix admitted to the group of hunters at dinner one night that

he wasn’t too enthusiastic to miss rutting activity where he hunts, but that he had a “great” time as a mentor. “The big takeaway from this is this used to be done by family members – dads, uncles or grandfathers,” he said. “In today’s world, we’ve kind of skipped a generation of folks who did not hunt and are not hunters. “That seems so foreign to us. For someone who has been hunting for a long time, you may not see the value in doing this until you’ve done it.” Justin Gilchrist is the wildlife biologist in charge of the Dallas County SOAs, Portland Landing and Cedar Creek, and he is grateful to see a lot of hard work reach fruition during the mentored hunts. “For me, these hunts have been very rewarding,” Gilchrist said. “We put in a lot of time managing the resources and getting things ready for the hunts. Getting to mentor these people who have never been in the woods in their life is very special to me. We get to take people out and teach them about firearms and hunting. We show them deer sign and what to look for when scouting, like a hard mast (acorns, etc.) crop. “Nothing compares to watching their reaction when a deer walks out. Then you watch them be successful and get excited about their first deer. To see them take a deer on land where we’ve done a lot of work is very rewarding. It pumps me up.” Visit www.outdooralabama. com/hunting/adult-mentored-hunting-program for more information.

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