Local: Elmore County students of the month!
Opinion: Bush the best candidate, Rubio could beat Hillary.
Guionnaud wins the gold in weight class.
Eclectic Observer Page 4
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The
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THURSDAY • JANUARY 14, 2016
TheWetumpkaHerald.com
Vol. 27, No. 2
Residents to see rise in water fees By CARMEN RODGERS Staff Writer
Now that the Eclectic Water Works is the responsibility of the town, residents can expect to see a few changes. Besides changing the verbiage, the city has made a few other adjustments to the water works department since the acquisition. Some of the water department
fees are increasing. “The reconnection fee is going from $40 to $50 and the afterhours fee is going from $40 to $50. The penalty fee for tamper is also going up,” said Gary Davenport, mayor of Eclectic. Davenport said the increase in the fees is in response to the cost of conducting the business. While gas prices are on the decrease, it is the city that foots the bill for it and wages continue
to keep pace with the times. “We have to send somebody to reconnect, which cost us money,” he said. “We have to pay for gas and the employee. If it’s afterhours we pay them time and a half to do that.” The $50 fee is in line with what other water and sewage departments are charging. “All we’re doing is bringing them up to where they are equal to what every-
body else is charging, plus it helps us offset some of those overtime hours,” Davenport said. The fee for tampering with the water department’s equipment is also increasing. “If you check the surrounding water works and sewer boards in the area, two out of the three charge $500, flat,” See FEES • Page 3
FEMA, state officials visit to confirm damages
Commission approves funding for family resource center Amount of $10,000 was requested to fund staffing and other needs
By JOHN W. PEELER Managing Editor
By JOHN W. PEELER Managing Editor
The Elmore County Family Resource Center received a boost in their county footprint Monday when the Elmore County Board of Commissioners approved a request to fund the center $10,000 to help with staffing and other needs to regenerate the center. One of the goals of the center is to connect people to agencies and to help people to get resources. Katrina Mitchell, Elmore County Extension Office coordinator, gave the board a presentation requesting the funds and said about six months ago there was a renewed interest to regenerate the center, which Mitchell said had been fairly stagnant. “We know the resources across the county are diminished when people call and need resources,” Mitchell said. “ … The mission of the Elmore County (Family) Resource Center is, and always has been to connect people to resources. … however, at this point the funding had gotten to the point resources are few and far between. … It’s time, it’s time to try to regenerate and see what we can do for the people of Elmore County.” Funds, Mitchell said, would help with having someone answer phones, recreate the Elmore County Family See COMMISSION • Page 2
Today’s
Weather
60 43 High
Low
FRIDAY: HIGH 57 LOW 40
Carmen Rodgers / The Observer
This was the Davis home located on N. Ann Street. The family escaped without injury, but lost all their belongings in the Sunday night blaze.
Fire destroys Eclectic family’s home By CARMEN RODGERS Staff Writer
It was Sunday night when Lisa Davis of Eclectic heard an alarming sound that quickly brought her to her feet. Davis had only a few minutes to gather her children and escape their home on N. Ann St. in Eclectic. The mobile home she
and her family lived in caught fire around 9 p.m. and they escaped with only their lives. Everything they owned was gone in an instant. “I had just went to bed and not even five minutes later I hear the smoke detector go off,” Davis said. “I went to the kitchen because I thought maybe it was my dryer because my
dryer has been shorting out and I saw a light coming from my son’s bedroom. I walked in and his bed was on fire. I told them to run to the back door and I ran to my daughter’s room and grabbed her and pushed us all out of the door and I called 911 as soon as I got out.” It is believed the cause of See FIRE • Page 2
Elmore County could be on the verge of qualifying for Federal Emergency Management Agency public assistance relief for its infrastructure following a recent visit by FEMA and Alabama Emergency Management Agency officials. Two officials from FEMA and AEMA officials met with officials from Elmore County for a Joint Preliminary Damage Assessment where FEMA representatives in the public assistance area came in to confirm the damage from the recent deluge of rain that caused floods and flash floods across the area and the state. “They look at a representative sampling (of the damage) to verify that we have the damage that meets the specific thresholds for us to be eligible for a county for public assistance … that’s for financial assistance for damages to governmental infrastructure, such as roads and bridges, water systems and drainage systems … parks, public facilities … things like that,” said Eric Jones, Elmore County See FEMA • Page 2
Charges piling up for former Tallassee assistant police chief of someone who does not deserve to wear the badge of law enforcement,” Houston said. “He abused his power as an officer and abused the trust of The charges keep on coming. the public, which he swore to protect After former Tallassee assistant police chief Chris Miles pleaded guilty and serve.” Houston said a federal grand jury in federal court to obstruction of jusalso has returned an indictment against tice, deprivation of rights as well as distribution of marijuana in November Miles for crimes associated with this 2015, he now faces additional charges case. Miles already faces a maximum of on another matter. 20 years in prison after pleading guilty Randall Houston, district attorney for the 19th judicial circuit, confirmed for lying to federal agents about how he obtained information and his assault that an Elmore County grand jury of a suspect in April 2013. returned indictments against Miles Miles also pleaded guilty to selling in connection to a burglary during approximately 16 pounds of marijuana August 2013 on West Butler Street in to a known drug dealer in the area for Tallassee. The grand jury charged Miles with $4,000. “These charges, coupled with the one count each of second-degree federal charges against him, should burglary and second-degree theft of ensure he never has the opportunity to property. do it again,” Houston added. “Chris Miles is a prime example By KEVIN TAYLOR Copy Editor
Former Tallassee assistant Chief of Police Chris Miles and his wife Kelli Miles. Carmen Rodgers / The Observer
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PAGE 2 • JANUARY 14, 2016
Commission
TheWetumpkaHerald.com
continued from page 1
Resource Center directories, which are pocket directories that list resources throughout the county, and start reaching out and reconnecting with agencies who can help Elmore County residents. The board voted unanimously to approve the funds for the center, which will require amending the 2016 budget. With the voting season around the corner, the commission approved the temporary hire of Andy Dunn to install electronic voting machines at voting precincts for the March 1 Primary and April 12 Runoff Election. Dunn, who was in attendance, briefed the board on the intricacies and procedures used in the pre-emplacement, emplacement operations involved in getting the voting machines ready for the upcoming elections. In addition to the temporary hire of Dunn, the board approved the hire of two on-site voting specialists from ES&S for the March 1 Primary and one specialist for the April 12 Runoff Election. The specialists will be on-site to assist with the internal components of the voting machines, should there be an internal malfunction. Both Dunn and ES&S were approved by the board without opposition.
Please join Wayne and Tina Curlee along with family and friends to celebrate the life of
Adam Hutchens Saturday January 16, 5:00pm The Warehouse 45 Main Street, Eclectic, Alabama
THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER
FEMA
continued from page 1
Emergency Management Agency director. Jones said the meeting included looking at documentation collected during the damage assessment phase, which began immediately after stabilizing the emergency conditions that existed during the holiday period. “They sat down and reviewed our documentation to begin with,” Jones said. “Then they went out and did some field surveys. They only wanted to look at the three largest jurisdictions with damage, so we had the Elmore County Highway Department, the City of Wetumpka Public Works and the Central Elmore Water and Sewer Authority. “Those are the three jurisdictions we met with during the JPDA process. They felt like we had already met with some of the state officials and they felt like the documentation we had, along with the state already working with us to verify our damages … they felt like we had enough to look at between those three entities to verify everything they needed to, to turn in for us to be eligible for the public assistance program.” Jones cautioned again that public assistance should not be confused with individual assistance and that public assistance is only for infrastructure. He said he felt like both the county, and the state would qualify for FEMA public assistance due to not only the damage in Elmore County,
Fire
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the fire was a child mishandling a lighter. “We think that he (Davis’ oldest son) got a lighter from his dad’s house,” Davis said. “He said that his little brother took the lighter and was lighting the bed, but his little brother was asleep at the time.” Davis said her children were taught not to play with lighters, but anyone with small chil-
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but across the district, as well. The next step, Jones said, in meeting the FEMA guidelines for public assistance is action by the state. “We were one of (many) counties requesting a JPDA with FEMA,” he said. “The state will wait until they get those (JPDAs) completed before they request the assistance from FEMA. Obviously, with FEMA assistance, the president will have to sign off on that. But, the governor is the one that has to request assistance from FEMA … he’d be asking for a disaster declaration and it would be for public assistance ... .” In order for the state to meet the threshold for FEMA assistance, Jones said the state must meet the $6.7 amount of damage, which he said he felt would be met. From all the jurisdictions in Elmore County alone there is an estimated $830,000, FEMA allowed, damages and just under $110,000 not covered by FEMA, but covered under the Federal Highway Administration, he said. “That’s the total numbers with both programs working for us for recovery,” he said. “I strongly feel we’ll (the state) meet that $6.7 million threshold,” he said. “We still have to get that approved, but I feel like we’ll get the public assistance approval, I really do.”
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dren knows that accidents can happen. Davis said she believes this tragedy will be a learning experience for her children. “The boys were scared because it was in their room,” Davis said. “They were worried about getting in trouble. My daughter, she’s only 3, was actually getting on to my older son who’s 6.” The mobile home is a shell of what it once was. “Everything was lost,” she said. “We already have people donating clothes, shoes, basic necessitates and things like that.” Since the community has extended a helping hand to the Davis family, now their main concern is finding another place to call home. “Right now we are trying to get enough money to get a new house,” she said. “We were renting, but we’re looking for something to own. It was our plan anyway but now we have to fast-track it.” Davis said she is grateful to the responding fire departments. Eclectic Fire Department, Red Hill Fire Department and Kowaliga Fire Department worked together to extinguish the fire.
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Tallassee Chamber of Commerce 2016 Annual Banquet & Awards Ceremony THURSDAY, JANUARY 21, 2016
6:00 pm Social, 7:00 pm Dinner & Program Wetumpka Civic Center 410 S. Main St, Wetumpka, Al Tickets: $35/person, $250 Reserved Table for 8 ***Tickets must be purchased or reserved in advance***
Guest Speakers: Mack & Ria Story Topic: Key to Making an Impact This presentation includes leadership principles such as: • How to grow your business through relationships • How to engage, develop and reward employees • Get better results from your business • How you can develop your leadership skills • Intentional Living
Open to Members and Non-Members Ticket Locations: WACQ, Tallassee Tribune, Chamber Office
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THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER
TheWetumpkaHerald.com
JANUARY 14, 2016 • PAGE 3
The Tallassee Housing Authority
Elmore County High and Elmore County Middle Students of the Month
is reopening its waiting list for Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV) Program on Tuesday, January 28th at the Tallassee Recreation Department located at 450 Gilmer Avenue. Only applications will be issued from 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. The HCV Program is a federally funded rental assistance program for low-income families/individuals, the elderly and disabled. The HCV Program provides eligible families an opportunity to rent from a private landlord of their choice within the Tallassee Area. Please call (334) 283-2801 for questions.
RODNEY GRIFFITH Lake Martin Properties Serving Lake Martin, Tallassee and the Surrounding Area
RODNEY GRIFFITH BROKER CELL: 334-207-0666 WEB: www.rodneygrif¿th.com EMAIL: rodneygrif¿th@windstream.net
Submitted / The Observer
(Above) Eclectic Elementary recently named its December Students of the Month. Those students are Brolen Hornsby, Kameron Barry, Braxton Loftin, Joshua Lett, Demarcus Rogers, Maria Morales (Kindergarten); Riley Oliver, Kaylan Martin, Levi Creamer, Cory Stubbs, Jaylyn Hill, Lacy Martin (first grade); Jordan Pollard, Jasmine Ramirez, Mason Pack, Brennon Lumpkin, Gage Tompkins, Kale Petty (second grade); Courtney Myers, Kennedy Robinson, Eli McGhee, Channing Buckner, Abe McGhee, Abbie Guy (third grade); Hallie Crumpton, Karley Navarre, Jayla Brooks, Jabari Murphy and Anabelle Orr (fourth grade). (Top) Elmore County High School recently announced its December Students of the Month. They are Grant Hall (freshman), Julie Marks (sophomore), Trey Fulmer (junior) and Wesley Meadows (senior).
Fees Davenport said. “If we turn somebody’s water off, we put a padlock on it and if you go out there and cut that padlock, that’s a tampering fee.” While deciding on just how much the fees should increase, other town and city water department fees were compared to those of Eclectic. “If you do that in the city of Tallassee it’s a $500 charge, first time. That’s what we’re trying to charge. If you do it a second time, $500 charge, third time and it’s $500. If you did that in Tallassee you’re going to spend $1,500,” Davenport said. Tampering with water department equipment can be costly in fees and it can land the one tampering in jail. “Actually that’s a criminal offense,” he said. “You can be arrested for that. Since I’ve
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been mayor, we’ve only had one person do that.” The water department is also increasing fees for boring and open road cuts. If a water line were on the one side of the road and needs to run to a meter on the opposite side of that road, it would call for boring or an open road cut. “What we’ll do, if it’s a town road, we’ll cut
the road,” Davenport said. “We’ll open the road up, run the line, close it up and pack it down with asphalt on top of it. We’re asking $300, whether we open it up or we bore it.” While some of the water department fees are on the increase, most will remain the same. “Water rates, sewer rates, connection fees,
tap fees; all those are going to be same as they were,” Davenport said.
LAKE MARTIN VIEW – 260 South Lands End, 3 bd/2 ba, 1 acre, $135,000. TALLASSEE – McNEAL STREET, 2 bd/1 ba, close to national guard armory, $55,000. COMMERCIAL BUSINESS – Hwy. 229 in Red Hill (formerly Red Hill Cottage Restaurant), over 3000 sq. ft. on 3 ACRES, only $99,500. RIVER HILLS SUBDIVISION – 23 lots, great views of Lake Tallassee, underground utilities, sewage. Prices start at only $20,000. 2 SOLD – 21 remaining. W. PATTON – Brick, 3 bd/1 ba, new heat pump, hardwood floors, 2 lots, REDUCED $65,000. ECLECTIC – NEW MOBILE HOME on 1.2 ACRE lot, 3 bd/ 2 ba, flat yard, lg. deck, on Ga. Rd. close to Rushenville Church. $69,000. 2206 HWY. 120 – 2 miles from Reeltown School, brick, 3 bd/2 ba, heat pump, hardwood floors. Beautiful yards, new roof, close to Kiwi Farm. 100% financing for qualified buyer. REDUCED TO $99,500. BEAUTIFUL BRICK HOUSE in Plantation Pines, 4 bd/3.5 baths, 1.6 acre lot very modern and pretty, REDUCED TO $324,000. 18 ACRES on S. Tallassee Drive, $34,000. 3189 LITTLE ROAD – 4 bd/2ba., large lot, very modern, & pretty, only $215,000. 8 ACRES KENT RD – REDUCED TO $45,000. 27 ACRES CLAUDE RD. – $80,000. TALLASSEE GILMER AVE. – 3bd/2 ba next to DQ zoned commercial, REDUCED TO $125,000. TALLASSEE BRICK HOME – on 1 acre with a 2 acre fish pond, 3 bd, 2 ba , large den and kitchen, garage, large screened porch, heat pump, $159,000. 8 more acres also adjacent to it. COMMERCIAL PROPERTY – 8 ACRES close to Walmart on Hwy 14, REDUCED $198,500. MULLINS STREET– Eclectic, 1991 Doublewide mobile home on flat acre lot 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, very private, $45,000. 548 PROSPECT ROAD ECLECTIC- Beautiful home on 4 ACRES, 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, Very modern and private, Very close to lake Martin.$279000.
Mack Daugherty
On March 1, 2016 elect a commissioner who has spent a lifetime of volunteer service to his country, state, county and community. “I firmly believe that one of our primary responsibilities and opportunities, while on this earth, is to strive to make a positive difference in someone’s life. I would be extremely humbled and honored to have the opportunity to serve as your Elmore County District Two County Commissioner. Thank you for your vote on March 1st, and may God bless you and your families!”
I volunteered to serve my country in the United States Military – (6) years.
I volunteered to serve my state as a Deputy Game Warden – (22) years.
I volunteered to serve the good people of Elmore County as a Certi¿ed Deputy Sheriff – (24) years.
I volunteered to serve as a Certi¿ed American Red Cross Instructor – (22) years.
I volunteered to serve my community as a Fireman and Fire Chief – (20) years.
I volunteered to serve the needs of seriously ill children and their families – (27) years.
I volunteered to serve as a Minister of Music in the church – (43) years.
– ACCEPTING NO CA MPA IGN DONATIONS – Paid for Mack Daugher t y Campaign | 7318 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024
Kenneth Boone, Publisher John W. Peeler, Managing Editor Opinions expressed in guest columns and letters to the editor do not necessarily reflect the viewpoint of the management of Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc.
PAGE 4 • JANUARY 14, 2016
OPINION
“Our liberty cannot be guarded but by the freedom of the press, nor that be limited without danger of losing it.” --Thomas Jefferson THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER
The Observer strives to report the news honestly, fairly and with integrity, to take a leadership role and act as a positive influence in our community, to promote business, to provide for the welfare of our employees, to strive for excellence in everything we do and, above all, to treat others as we would want to be treated ourselves.
Bush the best candidate, Rubio could beat Hillary
L
ast week we discussed the presidential race. The GOP race for the nomination has been one of the most illuminating in history. Never before have political novices been the frontrunners. It is obvious that voters prefer an outsider with no governmental experience. Donald Trump and Ben Carson would both be considered outsiders, both lacking in political experience and skills and Trump lacking tact. No matter what they say or the amateurish blunders they make they doggedly cling to their lead in the polls. Over the years, I have been able to predict Alabama political races with some accuracy; however, national and presidential politics not so much. A prime example would be the presidential race eight years ago. In 2008, I looked at Fred Thompson and saw a presidential winner. He was tall with a deep gravelly voice. He had charisma and gravitas, not to mention a perfect resume and bio to be president. Thompson had risen to fame as a Watergate prosecutor, then moved on to become a well-known actor, who was a star in movies and the television show “Law and Order.” He served with distinction for eight years in the Senate from Tennessee. He was a proven political fundraiser. Hence I boldly declared and predicted that Fred Thompson would be the GOP nominee and prob-
STEVE FLOWERS Guest Columnist
ably the next president. Upon hearing of my column and glowing prediction his wife even called from Nashville to thank me for the complimentary words. A week later, Thompson dropped out of the presidential race. There is an old adage that says once bit, twice shy. Another that says fool me once shame on you, fool me twice shame on me. Well, a few months back I tried again and predicted that Jeb Bush would win the GOP nomination and go on to give Hillary Clinton a run for her money, but it currently looks as though Bush is fading nationwide. Regardless, I still believe that Jeb Bush is the best candidate the Republicans could field to possibly beat Clinton. He has proven himself to be a successful governor of a battleground state. Florida is indeed the ultimate swing state. The Sunshine State is now America’s third most populous state. It is a microcosm of America, probably
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because most of America has moved there to retire. Jeb Bush has a Hispanic wife with obvious Hispanic children and he has a very proven following among the Hispanic population in Florida. It does not hurt that he speaks fluent Spanish. Due to the country’s dramatic demographic changes and the advantages inherent in the Electoral College for Democrats, a Democrat begins the race as the favorite. However, Bush could pull off the upset. Capturing the all-important Hispanic vote in a pivotal swing state is crucial. Jeb Bush was considered by most of the Bush family as the more promising of the two sons. He was considered the one to follow his father as president. He is also a prolific fundraiser. Raising campaign money is the key to victory in presidential politics or any politics for that matter. He is a tireless worker who has an impeccable reputation as a family man, which is a stark contrast to the strange Clinton marriage. Time Magazine was pretty much on the same page as me several months ago. They had a cover story on Bush and summed it up this way, “A two term Governor of the ultimate swing state, Bush earned high marks for ushering in sweeping conservative reforms. He’s a Spanish-speaking policy wonk with a multi-cultural family that mirrors
the nation’s metamorphosis and he may be the only Republican with the mix of money, moxie and political mastery to match Clinton.” However, the premier reason that Jeb Bush is the best candidate against Hillary for the GOP is that he is from Florida. A Republican must carry Florida. Polling reveals that Trump cannot carry Florida or Ohio for that matter against Hillary Clinton. Therefore, if the GOP nominates Trump they are doomed. If Jeb Bush indeed falters and fails to win over GOP primary conservative voters nationwide, then who could beat Hillary? The answer is obvious. Young Florida Senator Marco Rubio is the only candidate left standing who could beat Hillary. He is Hispanic, very conservative, attractive, young, and articulate plus he hails from Florida. It is all about Florida. It will be interesting to watch. See you next week. Steve Flowers is Alabama’s leading political columnist. His weekly column appears in over 60 Alabama newspapers. He served 16 years in the state legislature. Steve may be reached at www.steveflowers.us.
County Line column and website aim to keep citizens updated The County Line T he Commission recognizes the importance of being proactive in communicating with the residents of Elmore County regarding the role and activities of county government. The County Line and the Elmore County website are two resources the commission uses to keep citizens informed and up-to-date. The county website can be viewed at www.elmoreco.org and features an A-Z directory of services for citizens to easily determine which department to contact for assistance. The website also includes all county departments and links to other agencies as well. The
Elmore County Commission
website offers information on current events, environmental services, job openings, pistol permits, property taxes, road management and closures, sex offender information, subdivisions regulations, tag renewals and much more. County commission meeting recordings can be viewed on the website the day after a commission meeting takes place. The procedures to address the commission, the meeting schedule, work session
agendas and meeting minutes are also available for review. The county commission page lists the county commissioners including contact information, district maps, and major subdivisions. The policies to address the commission and to request public records are also listed on the commission’s page. Citizens are encouraged to visit the county’s webpage to find out what’s going on in Elmore County government. We also welcome you to contact the county government offices by calling 334-567-1156 or coming by from 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
334-567-7811 • Fax 334-567-3284 e-mail: News@TheEclecticObserver.com THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER (005-022) is published weekly on Thursday 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. ISSN # 10500898. We reserve the right to refuse to print any advertisement, news story, photograph or any other material submitted to us for any reason or no reason at all. •Obituaries - $.25 per word for one newspaper (Herald, Weekend, Observer, Tribune). $15 charge for a photograph. •Weddings/Engagements - $.25 per word for one newspaper. $15 charge for 2-column photo. •Birth Announcements - $.25 per word for one newspaper. $15 charge for a photo. SUBSCRIPTION RATES One Year in Elmore, Tallapoosa or Coosa County $25 One Year Elsewhere $38 The publisher reserves the right to change subscription rates during the term of subscription at any time. To subscribe or if you miss your paper, call 256-234-4281. ©2016 Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. All rights reserved and any reproduction of this issue is prohibited without the consent of the editor or publisher. NEWS John Peeler, managing editor John.Peeler@TheWetumpkaHerald.com. . . . . . . . . . . .Ext. 302 Cory Diaz, sports editor Cory.Diaz@TheWetumpkaHerald.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . .Ext. 306 Kevin Taylor, copy editor Kevin.Taylor@TheWetumpkaHerald.com. . . . . . . . . . . .Ext. 309 SALES Jayne Carr, marketing consultant Jayne.Carr@TheWetumpkaHerald.com.. . . . . . . . . . . .Ext. 313
Member
Member
Maxwell-Gunter no place to house illegal immigrants
Y
ou might recall that over a year ago the Obama administration proposed using Maxwell-Gunter Air Force Base in Montgomery to house hundreds of illegal immigrant minors detained at the Mexican border. I was adamantly opposed to this proposal and worked with my colleagues in the Alabama delegation to shut it down. Now, Administration officials are at it again. The Pentagon quietly sent an email to my office over the holidays informing us that Maxwell-Gunter was among six military bases being assessed by the Department of Health and Human Services as a place to house children from the influx of minors at the southern border while they await deportation. This is a terrible idea for a number of reasons, and I wasted no time working to stop it from going forward. I immediately wrote the Secretaries of Defense, Homeland Security and Health and Human Services to state my strong objections and let them know I will fight any attempt to bring detained minors on base. I then went to the floor of
MARTHA ROBY U.S. Representative
the U.S. House of Representatives to raise awareness and let administration officials know we are paying attention. I have also been in touch with leaders on base in Montgomery to discuss the potential effect this would have on their mission. That’s the real issue here. Our active military installations have very important jobs to do. At Maxwell-Gunter, that includes things like training, education and cyber activities, many times in classified settings that are very sensitive. There’s no question in my mind that forcing our base to house and secure hundreds of illegal minors would negatively impact the mission. We cannot allow that to happen. The truth is these minors must be sent back to their home countries.
We will do it with the utmost compassion and care, but it has to be done. Some say sending the children back would be cruel and calloused. But, we have to look at the bigger picture. These children did not arrive by accident. There is an organized trafficking scheme that is preying on families in Central America, selling promises of a life in the United States to poor parents and children. These children endure horrendous conditions as they make the long journey, in most cases with no ability to communicate with their families, no guardian to protect them and no financial resources to provide for them. By the time they finally reach the border, many will have suffered severe physical and even sexual abuse. Allowing the detainees to stay in the United States is actually the least compassionate option because it invites even more children to endure the brutality of this organized trafficking scheme. We worked hard to shut this effort down the first time, and I will do everything I can to see it shut down again.
FAITH
Phone 334-567-7811 kevin.taylor@thewetumpkaherald.com
THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER
TheWetumpkaHerald.com
Obituaries Fannie Mae Grier Evans Mrs. Fannie Mae Grier Evans, a native of Elmore County, was born on March 18, 1922 and passed away Sunday, Jan. 10, 2016, at the age of 93. The family received friends from 1-2 p.m. Jan. 12 at Balm of Gilead Church. The funeral services immediately followed the visitation with Minister Ronald Davis officiating. Interment will follow at Balm of Gilead Church Cemetery with Gassett Funeral Home directing. Mrs. Evans is survived by her sons, Raymond Evans (Sue), Rachel E. Evans, Robert Evans (Linda), and Rudolph Evans (Robbie); daughter, Ruby Joyce Luster (Wayne); brother, Howard L. Grier (Sarah); 14 grandchildren; 34 great grandchildren and 19 great-great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Jasper H. Evans; daughter-in-law, Carolyn A. “Drene” Evans; granddaughter, Michelle Norman; one sister and five brothers. Flowers will be accepted or memorial contributions are requested to the Balm of Gilead Church Cemetery Fund, 5187 Balm Road, Wetumpka, AL 36092. Pallbearers will be Tim Evans, Tony Evans, Kenneth Evans, Shane Luster, Zach Luster and Scotty Evans. Honorary pallbearers are Tristian Rawls, Austin Harris, Jared Evans, Travis Rawls, Ryan Evans, Timothy Evans, Evan Moseley, David Brown, Tanner Faulk, Skyler Hawk and Sawyer Hawk.
Online guest book available at www.gassettfuneralhome.net
Ronald Sellers Mr. Ronald Sellers, 74, of Eclectic, passed away Jan. 6, 2016. He was born Jan. 17, 1941. A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Jan. 17 at Watson Chapel Congregational Church with the Rev. Kenneth Keppel officiating. He is survived by sons, Nathan Sellers, Aaron Sellers, Joe Sellers and Bobby Sellers; daughter, Angela Dahm; sisters, Ann Swink (Raymond), Martha Mooring and Judy Cineroz; and brothers, Harold Sellers and Charles Sellers. Online condolences at www.linvillememorial.com.
Patty Wall Mrs. Patty Wall, 70, of Eclectic passed away Jan. 4, 2016. She was born June 6, 1945. A graveside memorial service was held at 1 p.m. Jan. 8 Cain’s Chapel with the Rev. Gerald Wood officiating. She is survived by her mother, Helen P. Sewell; sisters, Judy Davis and Genea Crockett; daughter, Melissa Wall; son, Kyle Wall (Kellie); and grandchildren, Taylor Thornell (Justin), Trace Wall, Tanner Wall, Josh Ayers, Cort Kynard and Bo Ayers (Samantha); and great grandchildren, Kendall Ayers, Audrey Ayers and Owen Thornell. She is preceded in death by her husband, Jerry Harrison Wall. Online condolences at www.linvillememorial.com
JANUARY 14, 2016 • PAGE 5
Religion Calendar • Seman Congregational Christian Church on Alabama Highway 9 having a revival with Brother Scott Jordan Jan. 13. Service time is 7 p.m. All are welcome and encouraged to attend. • Wellspring Community Church in Millbrook will host The Underground at 7 p.m. Jan. 15 featuring surviving The Fall! Have free food and hang out afterward. Evening filled with rockin music, lights, and a great time with friends. • Healing Waters Church of God in Eclectic will host a Youth Rally at 5 p.m. Jan. 16. Free pizza, games and prizes to follow. Praise and worship by Trend Setters Youth Praise Band from Beacon of Hope and its drama team with the word being brought by Matt Parker. All are encouraged to attend. • Living Word Church in Wetumpka will host Movie Night at 7 p.m. Jan. 16. “Courageous” will be the family-friendly movie shown. Popcorn and drinks will be served. There is no admission fee. Call 334-399-1486 for more information. • Living Word Church in Wetumpka will host a night of Youth #takeover at 6 p.m. Jan. 24. There will be a worship band, a powerful
youth-focused message with pizza and drinks to follow. It is all FREE! Call 334-498-4646 for more information.
located at 504 West Osceola Street, Wetumpka. For more information, call the church office at 334-567-4729.
• New Home Baptist Church in Wetumpka will host SALT (Serving and Learing Together) Conference Feb. 4-5. To register and arrange lodging, contact Eric Sutton no later than Jan. 28. Call 334-5675966 or 334-398-5697.
•Community Fellowshippers meet at Cain’s Chapel United Methodist Church every third Wednesday at 11 a.m. The gathering includes devotion, program, prizes and covered dish luncheon. Local pastors and families encouraged to attend.
• Shoal Creek Baptist Church will host “Eat Healthy! Live Healthy!” at 7 p.m. Feb. 16 in the main sanctuary. Registered dietitian Allan Higgenbotham will be the speical guest speaker. This is a free program sponsored by the Library Team of the church. It is open to the public. • Newsboys - We Believe, God’s Not Dead Tour will perform at 7 p.m. March 31 at Garrett Colisuem in Montgomery. Tickets start at $25. They may be purchased at ticketmaster.com or call 334-3566866 for more information. • GriefShare grief recovery seminar and support group will began meeting at Calvary Baptist Church in Wetumpka. The group will meet on Tuesdays from 10 a.m. until noon and on Thursdays from 7-9 p.m. There is a $25 registration fee to help cover cost of materials. The church is
•Christians of all denominations are invited to participate in a cooperative Bible Study held each Tuesday 1-2 p.m. at 103 West Tuskeena St. in Wetumpka The group is self-led and selects a book of the Bible to read through and study together. All are welcome.
• Calvary Baptist Church offers a Bible study “War Room” Mondays at 6:30 p.m. at Uncle Bob’s Doghouse in Wetumpka. Everyone is invited. Call the church office at 334-452-1931 for more information. •Mulder Memorial United Methodist Church hosts a noon salad luncheon the third Thursday of each month from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Call 334-567-4225 for more information. •First Presbyterian Church of Wetumpka holds a fellowship lunch every third Sunday after worship. •Celebrate Recovery, which deals with life’s hurts, habits and hang-ups, holds meetings every Thursday at 6:15 p.m. at Santuck Baptist Church.
•Friendship Closet, a ministry of Friendship Baptist Church, is open the first Tuesday of each month from 9 to 11:30 a.m. and from 6 to 8 p.m. Those who need clothes, shoes, etc. for women, men and children, may visit. •Hope For Healing Grief Support Group meets the second Monday of each month at 6 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Tallassee. •River’s Edge Flea Market is open every Saturday from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. at East Tallassee United Methodist Church. All vendors welcome – new items, old items, crafts, youth groups, ball teams, baked goods, produce and food. Various booth costs available. For info, call Joan Wood at 334-313-4913 or Melanie Baker at 334415-8314. All proceeds are used for church-sponsored programs.
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Area Church Services Agapé Assembly of God Hwy. 63 North Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Sunday Worship 10:30 a.m. Sunday Evening Worship 6 p.m. Wednesday Night Service 7 p.m. Balm of Gilead Sunday School 10 a.m. Worship Service 11 a.m. Bethlehem East Baptist Church Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship 11 a.m. Discipleship Training 5 p.m. Evening Worship 6 p.m. Wednesday Evening 7 p.m. Beulah Missionary Baptist Church P.O. Box 130, Eclectic 36024 Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Worship Services 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Wednesday Services 6 p.m. Friday Services 6 p.m. Prayer Meeting and Bible Class 1st Tuesday Prayer Meeting 6 p.m. Central Baptist Church Sunday School 10 a.m. Worship Service 11 a.m. Adult Choir Practice 5 p.m. Evening Worship Service 6 p.m. Wednesday: Children, Youth and Adult Bible Study/Prayer Meeting 6:30 p.m. Central United Methodist Church Sunday Morning 9:30 a.m.
Chaney Creek Primitive Baptist Church Every Sunday except 2nd Sunday 10:30 a.m. Saturday before 2nd Sunday 10:30 a.m. Chapel United Methodist Church Services 2nd and 4th Sunday 9:45 a.m. Sunday School 2nd and 4th 9:15 a.m. Sunday School 1st, 3rd and 5th 10 a.m. Claud Independent Methodist Church 81232 Tallassee Hwy Sunday School 9:15 a.m. Worship Service 10:30 a.m. Evening Worship 6 p.m. Wednesday Prayer and Bible Study 7 p.m. Eclectic First Baptist Church Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Service 10:45 a.m. Discipleship Training 5 p.m. Wednesday: Meal 5:30 p.m. Youth, Children and Adult Studies and Activities 6:15 p.m. Eclectic United Methodist Church 1035 Main Street Morning Service 10:50 a.m. Evening Service 6 p.m. Wednesday: Meal 5:30 p.m. Service 6:30 p.m.
Georgia Road Church of Christ 4003 Georgia Road Sunday: Morning Bible Study 9 a.m. Morning Worship 10 a.m. Evening Worship 5 p.m. Wednesday: Mid-Week Bible Study 7 p.m. Good Hope Baptist Church 1766 S. Fleahop Road Sunday School 9:15 a.m. Morning Worship 10:30 a.m. Discipleship Training 5 p.m. Evening Worship 6 p.m. Wednesday: Prayer Service 7 p.m. TeamKID and “R.U.S.H” Youth Celebration 6:30 p.m. Healing Waters Church of God 1639 Kowaliga Road Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Morning Worship 10:30 a.m. Evening Worship 6 p.m. Wednesday: Family Training Hour 7 p.m. Kendrick Memorial Baptist Church Hwy. 9 Nixburg Sunday School 10 a.m. Worship Service 11 a.m. Mt. Hebron Church of Christ 4530 Mt. Hebron Road Sunday: Morning Bible Study 10 a.m. Morning Worship 11 a.m. Evening Worship 6 p.m. Wednesday:
Mid-Week Bible Study 7 p.m. Mt. Hebron East Baptist Church Sunday School 10 a.m. Sunday Worship 11 a.m. Wednesday: Children in Action 6:30 p.m. Bible Study and Prayer Meeting 6:30 p.m. First Wednesday of Month Potluck supper, Bible study and prayer meeting, 6 p.m. Pleasant Hill Baptist Church Sunday: Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Service 10:30 a.m. Evening Worship 5:30 p.m. Wednesday: Bible Study and Prayer Meeting 6:30 p.m. Adult Choir Practice 6:30 p.m. Prospect Baptist Church Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Worship Service 11 a.m. Discipleship Training 6 p.m. Worship Service 7 p.m. Wednesday: Bible Study and Teen Kid 6:30 p.m. Refuge Baptist Church 3098 Red Hill Road Sunday School 9:15 a.m. Worship Service 10:30 a.m. Rock Springs Baptist Church 375 Rigsby Rd, Tallassee AL 334-283-1156
Submit your church calendar items and events to: kevin.taylor@thewetumpkaherald.com
Rushenville Baptist Church 10098 Georgia Road Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship 11 a.m. Children’s Choir 5 p.m. Bible Study 6 p.m. GA’s, RA’s 6 p.m. Adult Choir Practice 6:45 p.m. Wednesday: Bible Study and Prayer Meeting 6 p.m. Salem Road Baptist Church 12 Old Salem Road Sunday School 10 a.m. Worship Service 11 a.m. Sunday Night Services 6 p.m. Wednesday Evening Prayer 7 p.m. Providence Primitive Baptist Church 4850 Chana Creek Road Bible Study 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship 10:45 a.m. Evening Worship 5:30 p.m. Wednesday Prayer and Praise 7 p.m. Union No. 2 Missionary Baptist Church PO Box 240452 Eclectic, AL 36024 Sunday School - 10 a.m. Morning Worship - 11:15 Tuesday Bible Study - 6 p.m. Watson Chapel Congregation 2223 East Cotton Road Sunday School 10 a.m. Morning Worship 11 a.m.
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THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER
Sheriff’s Reports Reports filed by officers of the Elmore County Sheriff’s Department Dec. 30-Jan. 5. Dec. 30 • Possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute on Central Plank Road and Wipporwill Road in Eclectic. • Domestic violence (harassment) on Oak Creek Loop in Wetumpka. • Criminal trespass on 2100 block of Hogan Road in Holtville. • Domestic violence (harassment) and interference with a domestic violence emergency call on 6100 block of Central Plank Road in Santuck. • Breaking and entering of a motor vehicle and theft of property on 100 block of Gossom Pass in Crenshaw where a handgun valued at $450 was reported stolen. Jan. 2 • Receiving stolen property on Tallassee Highway at Georgia Road in Wetumpka.
TheWetumpkaHerald.com Jan. 3 • Theft of property on 17200 block of Central Plank Road in Central where an ATV valued at $6,000 was reported stolen. • Criminal trespass on 300 block of Southern Hill Drive in Redland. • Theft of property on 1500 block of River Falls Road in Wallsboro where a generator valued at $400 was reported stolen. • Burglary and theft of property on 1000 block of Thrasher Road in Wallsboro where a TV valued at $300 was reported stolen. • Burglary and theft of property on Dopson Point Road on Lake Martin where a TV valued at $600 was reported stolen. • Domestic violence (harassment) on Tecumseh Drive on Lake Martin. • Domestic violence (harassment) on 200 block of Mark Trail in Wetumpka. Jan. 4 • Domestic incident on 100 block of Alexander Circle in Redland. • Theft of property and breaking and entering of a motor vehicle on 8900 block of U.S. Highway 231 in Wetumpka where a cell phone valued at $200 was reported stolen. • Theft of property on 4200 block of Balm Road in Central where a washing machine valued at $150 was reported stolen. • Identity theft on 2000 block of Grier Road in Wetumpka.
JANUARY 14, 2016 • PAGE 7 • Domestic complaint on 300 block of Landers Swink Road on Lake Martin. • Domestic violence (harassment) on Georgia Road at Williams Road in Wetumpka. • Domestic violence (harassment) on 600 block of Lake Eagle Nest Drive in Wetumpka. Jan. 5 • Criminal mischief and criminal trespass on 100 block of Windsong Drive in Titus. • Criminal trespassing on 300 block of Nabors Circle in Tallassee. • Theft of property on 600 block of Lake Eagle Nest Drive in Wetumpka where various clothing valued at $150 were reported stolen. • Unauthorized use of a motor vehicle on 600 block of Lake Eagle Nest Drive in Wetumpka.
SPORTS
Cory Diaz Sports Editor Phone 334-567-7811 sports@thewetumpkaherald.com
PAGE 8 • JANUARY 14, 2016
THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER
Guionnaud grabs gold at McPhillips HHS sweeps Panthers
By CORY DIAZ The Wetumpka Herald
Michael Guionnaud won his weight division at the Julian McPhillips Wrestling Invitational Saturday at St. James in Montgomery. One of two Elmore County wrestlers that advanced to their respective class finals, the junior heavyweight bested county rival Holtville’s Nathan Smith by pin to earn the gold medal. “He worked it out, and it just ended up as it worked out that he came out on top,” longtime Panther wrestling coach Steve Flowers said. “(Smith) made a mistake, and he capitalized on it.” Guionnaud pinned all four of his foes during the McPhillips tournament, beating Prattville Christian Academy’s Jordan Haynes, Opelika’s Callahan Saggus and Park Crossing’s Seth Craig before winning the evenly matched championship bout against Smith. “They’re about even and they’ll be at the sectionals. That’ll be the two that will probably be competing with each other,” Flowers said. ECHS’s Jacob Owens was the other Panther that wrestled his way to the finals, where he fell short to Lee-Montgomery’s Laperio Wheat. Competing in the 122-pound
bracket, the junior started out pinning Park Crossing’s Cameron Whitlow and Sidney Lanier’s Jatorrian Spells to clinch a spot in the championship match. “Jacob Owens finished second in the Oak Grove tournament a few weeks ago, as well. We can probably look for him to work very well at sectionals,” Flowers said. “He’s a five-year wrestler, so he’s grown into it. He started out in the seventh-grade, so he’s coming along. He’ll be there next year, look for him to be very good.” David Wood (128-pound), Noah Wood (140-pound), Jeb Ballard (147-pound) and Tracy Strouse (154-pound) each won at least one bout at McPhillips for Elmore County. Three days after Guionnaud bested Smith in the tourney finals, Smith got his revenge in a dual at ECHS Tuesday. Holtville swept the Panthers, winning each contested match by fall, and dominated the team dual, 66-6. “(Tuesday), Michael made a mistake and Smith capitalized on it. It’s kind of the way it works sometimes when they’re pretty close to even,” Flowers said. “He got beat. He made some mistakes, he’s still learning. “We got a lot of work. We got a lot of new guys, and they’re having to work. We’re learning, we’re getting better.”
Corey Diaz / The Observer
Above, Elmore County’s Michael Guionnaud (left) wrestles Holtville’s Nathan Smith during their heavyweight championship bout at the annual Julian McPhillips Wrestling Invitational Saturday at St. James. Top, Guinnaud accepts his gold medal after winning his weight class.
Panthers drop two straight By CORY DIAZ Sports Editor
Corey Diaz / The Observer
Elmore County forwards Jakobi Bickely (50) and Terrence Head (11) sky for a rebound earlier this season.
After winning six straight, the Elmore County Panthers have dropped their last two games, both by single digits. The Panthers (12-6, 2-1) lost their first Class 4A, Area 5 contest of the season on the road at Booker T. Washington-Magnet, 58-51, Thursday before falling at home versus St. James, 54-45, Monday. ECHS and BTW-Magnet battled backand-forth throughout the entire area matchup, with Elmore County leading, 26-14, at halftime and 38-36 after three quarters of play. In the fourth, Elmore County senior point guard Neal Cook fouled out and Booker T. Washington pieced together a 22-point period to close out the 58-51 victory and grab the outright Area 5 advantage over ECHS. Senior Tyric Belyeu led the Panthers with 18 points against BTW-Magnet, while fellow senior Johnnie Jasper scored
eight points along with eight rebounds. Junior forward Terrence Head brought down 10 rebounds to go with his seven points and Cook added six points in the loss. Mike Stinson and Kennon Watkins paced Booker T. Washington with 17 and 13 points, respectively. Hosting St. James Monday, the Trojans’ E.J. Card had a banner game, dropping 24 points to help his team down Elmore County. The Panthers were in foul trouble most of the contest; St. James scored 20 points at the foul stripe, making up the difference in the game. With Cook and Head fouling out, Jasper led a depleted ECHS squad with 13 points, while Belyeu added 10 points and both amassed four fouls. Senior Kell Floyd had five points. The Panthers travel to Thorsby Friday and will host BTW-Magnet in an area tilt Tuesday.
Tallassee tops ECHS in junior varsity action
Elmore County junior varsity wrestler Jake Butler tries to roll over his Tallassee opponent during the teams’ dual at ECHS Tuesday.
By CORY DIAZ The Wetumpka Herald
Corey Diaz/ The Observer
The Elmore County junior varsity wrestling team lost to county rival Tallassee, 57-21, Tuesday at home. Tallassee doubled up the Panthers, winning six duals of out nine. For ECHS, Jake Butler (147-pound), Aaron Mosely (167-pound) and Skyler Stanley (120-pound) earned victories. After the Tigers picked up the first win, Stanley garnered his squad’s first pin, pulling ECHS within 15-12.
Tallassee rattled off three straight wins, one by forfeit and two by fall, before Butler outlasted his opponent by a close 11-10 decision. The Tigers took the next match by fall, and Elmore County’s Aaron Mosely followed that with a win of his own, pinning Tallassee’s John Burgess in the second period. The final two matches went to the Tigers.
Alabama defeats Clemson in championship game I just finished watching Alabama defeat Clemson 45-40 to win their fourth national championship in the last seven years. While, as an Auburn fan, this makes me nauseous at best, I must admit that it was a very entertaining game. I usually don’t watch Alabama because I inevitably end up cheering for the other team. I’d like to be one of those people who can pull for both teams, as long as they’re not playing each other (like my sweet mother). In fact, I’ve been on a personal quest for a few years now to try and become one of those people. It hasn’t been going very well. However, I did watch this game from beginning to end and I’m glad I did.
ANDY GRAHAM Sports Columnist
There was an extremely high level of talent on display and I thought it was a very well played game on both sides. There’s no question Nick Saban is one of the best recruiters and managers of a program there has ever been in college football. His in-game coaching ability, although, has been questionable at times over the years. That was not the case against Clemson. The onside kick in the fourth
quarter was a brilliant call and executed to perfection. That was a pivotal moment in the game and put the Tigers under the gun the rest of the night. Also to his credit, he let Lane Kiffin be himself and call his kind of game. I might not think much of Kiffin as a person, but he has proved the last two years that he is one of the best in college football at exploiting weaknesses in the opponent’s secondary. O.J. Howard had a career night and that was not by accident. That was good coaching. Even in a loss, Clemson proved a lot of its doubters wrong. The offensive staff put together an excellent plan and effectively attacked a defense with seemingly no weaknesses. The Tigers out-
gained Alabama through the air and on the ground with Deshawn Watson obviously being the catalyst. Watson’s ability to extend plays and convert third downs with his legs gave the Tide fits and was almost enough to pull off the upset. I thought Clemson did their conference proud and Dabo Swinney deserves a lot of credit for building a quality program. The Tigers bring back a ton of talent including Watson and will be front and center in Jordan Hare Stadium to begin the 2016 season. Auburn better get their house in order or that game won’t be pretty. In the end, Jake Coker made the plays he needed to make and avoided any killer mistakes. I didn’t think he was good enough
to lead a team to a championship. I don’t think most Alabama fans believed he was good enough until it actually happened. We were all wrong. He certainly isn’t spectacular, but he got the job done and that’s all that really matters. The question has been asked if it’s good or bad for college football that Alabama be so dominant. It’s an interesting question. In the big picture, I think it’s probably good because it creates passion and interest in the sport. Some of it’s love and a lot of it’s hate, but either way people are invested. Personally, I’m growing weary of this hellish Crimson world. Then again, I do live in the belly of the beast.