Jan 9, 2016 Wetumpka Herald by Tallapoosa Publishers

2015 Wetumpka Herald Offensive Player of the Year: Nathan Rourke. See Sports, pg. 8. Wetumpka, AL 36092

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SATURDAY-SUNDAY • JANUARY 9-10, 2016

THEWETUMPKAHERALD.COM

VOL. 11, NO. 2

Same-sex marriage law challenged by Moore No marriage licenses to be issued out of Elmore County By KEVIN TAYLOR Copy Editor

Contributed / The Herald

Judge Ensley refuses to issue any marriage licenses from the Elmore County Probate Oﬀice.

A day after Alabama Supreme Court Chief Justice Roy Moore issued an executive order for all probate judges in the state to stop issuing same-sex marriage licenses, Elmore County Probate Judge John Enslen stopped issuing any marriage licenses.

Supreme Court that Alabama probate judges have a ministerial duty not to issue any marriage license contrary to the Alabama Sanctity of Marriage Amendment or the Alabama Marriage Protection Act remain in full force and effect.” With that, some probate judges have ignored Moore’s order, but not

Moore’s order comes on the heels of different state district courts trying to punch holes in the landmark Obergefell v. Hodges case, which allowed for same-sex marriages. On Wednesday Moore ordered that “until further decision by the Alabama Supreme Court, the existing orders of the Alabama

Marbury teacher arrested on sex charges

See MARRIAGE • Page 2

Human remains identified from 2009 discovery Remains originally discovered near Possum Trot Road

Wesley charged with having sex with a student By KEVIN TAYLOR Copy Editor

A Marbury High School teacher was arrested Thursday and charged with one count of a school employee engaging in a sexual act with a student, according to Millbrook Police Chief P.K. Johnson. Brian J. Wesley, 30, of Millbrook was Wesley arrested in the Elmore County circuit clerk’s office Thursday in Wetumpka. Wesley is listed as a social studies teacher at Marbury High, according to the school’s website. See ARREST • Page 2

By KEVIN TAYLOR Copy Editor

Kevin Taylor / The Herald

Just before the Thanksgiving break, Cheyanne Barrett’s sixth-grade students began working on developing an app to enter in the Verizon Innovative App Challenge. It was the top app among 1,200 entries in the state earning the school a $5,000 grant as well as new tablets for each of the students who participated.

It has been nine years, but now family members of Richard Wayne Adams can be at peace. Elmore County Sheriff Bill Franklin said the state department of forensic sciences contacted his office earlier in the week to positively identify Adams, whose decomposed body and skeletal remains were found near Possum Trot Road in the Deatsville community Feb. 25, 2009. At the time when Adams’ remains were found about 40 yards from the banks of Lake Jordan, forensic sciences could not identify the remains. Franklin said Adams’ skull was sent to Louisiana State University and later to the University of North Texas. DNA was retrieved and put into the Combined DNA Index System. “They got a hit and were able to positively identify the remains,” Franklin said. “We then contacted his relatives.” Adams was from the Verbena community in Chilton County, See REMAINS • Page 2

Student innovators win grant Holtville students excel in Verizon app challenge By KEVIN TAYLOR Copy Editor

A group of seven Holtville Middle School students is hoping to raise an additional $15,000 for their school after collectively designing a new smartphone app. Just before the Thanksgiving break Cheyanne Barrett’s sixthgrade students began working on developing an app to enter in the Verizon

Innovative App Challenge. The students came up with the app “Money Management For Me and You.” “We have a goal-tracker, games, a holiday function to offer tips for saving and avoiding money issues before and after the holidays. We also have a jingle for the app,” said HMS student Brooke Carrico. “We made the app to look kid and adult-friendly.”

Their idea was an award-winner. It was the top app among 1,200 entries in the state to earn the school a $5,000 grant as well as new tablets for each of the students who participated. “I was on my way to school when I got Mrs. Barrett’s email. I was almost in tears when I read it,” team member Hope Nelson said. Now their app idea is in contention to win the national See HOLTVILLE • Page 2

School bus routes, numbers constantly evaluated By JOHN W. PEELER Managing Editor

To a 10-year-old, any amount on the school bus may seem like a long time, but Elmore County Public Schools Transportation Coordinator, Ray Mullino, said evaluating bus routes and the capacity of every bus is a constant and ongoing process to make sure students arrive at school and back home safely. Mullino said the longest routes are under two hours, even though the drivers may be on the road as early as 6 a.m. Drivers must have the students at their respective schools no later

USPS 681-260

than when the tardy bell rings at 7:30 a.m., he said. “For instance, the Redland drivers don’t start picking up kids until 6:20 (a.m.),” Mullino said. “So, if you go to Redland, then you go (straight) to Redland School. If you are in seventh and eighth and up, then … they are picked up and go to the middle school and high school.” Redland community is a growing community, he said, and has buses committed only for Redland Elementary School students and after those buses are checked out at the See BUS • Page 2

Elmore County Public Schools Transportation Department constantly monitors transportation routes and the numbers of students that ride the buses and make any adjustments that may need to be made. John Peeler / The Herald

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Arrest Johnson said the case was forwarded to Millbrook police when it was discovered the offense happened in Millbrook. “It is my understanding that alleged offense occurred several months ago at the offender’s residence,” Johnson said. Johnson said there have been no allegations of the use of force during the offense. The victim is a student within the Autauga County Public School System. “People in position of authority and

Marriage in Elmore County. Enslen released a statement Thursday morning announcing that all marriage licenses will not be issued from his office. “I apologize for any inconvenience that this situation my visit upon any Elmore County citizens,” Enslen said. “It is my understanding that licenses may be purchased at the courthouse in Montgomery County.” Enslen and other county probate judges filed an emergency petition for a declaratory judgment or protective order after a Kentucky clerk (Kim Davis) refused to issue same-sex marriage licenses in September 2015. A few days later, Enslen filed a separate petition for a declaratory judgment arguing additional grounds for relief. Moore further said that there is such “confusion and uncertainty” among the state’s probate judges that “this disparity affected the administration of justice in this state.” One U.S. Court of Appeals (Eighth

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

continued from page 1

having responsibility for the safety and welfare of children must be held to the highest of standards and scrutiny. We have an obligation to protect minor children from situations like this,” Johnson said. Wesley was booked into the Elmore County Jail Thursday and was released on the same day on a $10,000 bond. After discussing the case with members of the Autauga County Sheriff’s Office, Johnson said Wesley may face additional charges in Autauga County.

continued from page 1

Circuit) ruled the Obergefell case did not invalidate the marriage laws of states within its jurisdiction. The argument is the case only has jurisdiction in the states of Michigan, Kentucky, Ohio and Tennessee. Americans United, a religious watchdog group in Washington D.C., says Moore is flat-out wrong. “I have a news flash for Roy Moore: The U.S. Supreme Court upheld marriage equality in June and the decision extends nationwide,” said the Rev. Barry W. Lynn, executive director of Americans United. “All Alabama probate judges remain bound by a federal court order to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples. “Moore is a dangerous demagogue who seems to believe that he can overrule our nation’s highest court from his legal fiefdom in Montgomery. He can’t, and state and local officials should continue to ignore him.”

ELMORE COUNTY WEEKEND

Buses

continued from page 1

transportation office, are parked back at Redland school. “We have eight buses and that is all they (service) is Redland Elementary,” he said. “Then, for the seventh and eighth grade, those buses come here and (students) are dropped off here at the middle school and high school.” Mullino said transportation routes and the numbers of students that ride the buses are constantly monitored to ensure any adjustments that may need to be made, are made. Since 2013, he said, there have been more routes added, specifically to the Redland community. “We’ve had to add more routes to Redland,” he said. “The buses were kind of overcrowded, so we had to shift some streets over and add a route, and, we’ve had to change some buses.” Mullino said bus drivers keep up with the number of students on the buses and when the numbers approach the capacity of the bus, the numbers are evaluated and action is taken. “We look at all routes every year, and we look at the numbers (of students),” he said. “We’ve had to change some buses. Normally, the traditional bus holds 72 (passengers) and we’ve had to (change to) 84 passenger (buses) … and increase the capacity (of the bus). It could be a

long process, because if you bump (a route) one street over, it may affect six different bus routes. We mainly look at numbers … it’s a continuing process.” Mullino said there are a lot of details that go into making sure the county’s school children arrive safely to school and safely home — all the way down to the type of buses put into service. Although Mullino said he believes buses are seeing an increase in passengers due to the number of parents deciding to have their children ride the bus to and from school, he added, the bus is still the safest mode of travel. “The number of students hasn’t increased, but the number of students riding the bus has increased,” he said. “(Our) buses are really the safest mode of transportation on wheels. “It’s a tank on wheels. They are so well built and Alabama has set the standard on that. We can’t buy buses from Tennessee, Texas or Oklahoma because their buses don’t meet the standards for Alabama for a bus. We order and buy our buses from Alabama.” Mullino said from pick up at home to drop off at school, children who ride the bus are in safe hands, because safety is a paramount concern of the Transportation Department.

Holtville

continued from page 1

prize and a $15,000 grant for the school. By texting MONEYAPP2 to 22333, Holtville Middle School gets a vote. The school with the most votes by the end of Jan. 31 will be named the winner. “And I found out you can vote every other day,” Carrico said. The team, which consists of Julius Jackson II, Sydney Tait, Carter Brink, Bethany Parson, Sam Woodfin, Nelson and Carrico, hopes to use the grant money to assist in affording the cost of an expanded band room at Holtville Middle. “We have a lot of students who participate in beginner band and there is not enough room for them all,” Carrico said. “This money

could be used to afford a bigger room.” After learning of being the state title holders, the students have been working to perfect their 30-second commercial which will be posted on the Verizon App Challenge website. Barrett said she left the app and its creation entirely up to the students. “This has been a great opportunity to challenge themselves and have the experience of something new,” Barrett said. “Now we just need the community’s support to get involved to help us win the $15,000.” Since the voting opened, Holtville Middle School is among the Top 10 in total votes received.

Remains

continued from page 1

Franklin said. In 2009 when Adams’ remains were found, evidence showed that he had suffered a gunshot wound to the head and the gun was found under his body. Franklin said forensics confirmed it was a self-inflicted wound.

Adams was found was under a makeshift shelter, and at that time investigators believed Adams’ body had been there up to a year after his death. Adams would have been 57 years old this year.

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ELMORE COUNTY WEEKEND

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JANUARY 9-10, 2016 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 3

Area Calendar

Community Millbrook Players present â&#x20AC;&#x153;Murd-Arr!! Pirates of the Salty Dogâ&#x20AC;? When: Jan. 9, 7:30 p.m. Where: Millbrook Community Theatre Details: A tale of â&#x20AC;&#x153;Captain Bigbeardâ&#x20AC;? and his misfit crew of Scallywags! Tickets are $10 in advance or $12 at the door, which includes dessert and drink. Visit www.millbrooktheatre.com or call 334-782-7317 for more information. Blood Drive When: Jan. 10, 9 a.m.-noon Where: First United Methodist Church of Millbrook Details: Hosted by LifeSouth Community Blood Centers, Inc. Auditions for â&#x20AC;&#x153;SchoolHouse Rockâ&#x20AC;? When: Jan. 10, 2 p.m.; Jan. 11, 7 p.m. Where: Depot Theatre, Wetumpka Details: looking for a diverse cast of actors ages 12 and up. We are casting adults of all ages as well. Millbrook Players present â&#x20AC;&#x153;Murd-Arr!! Pirates of the Salty Dogâ&#x20AC;? When: Jan. 10, 2 p.m. Where: Millbrook Community Theatre Details: A tale of â&#x20AC;&#x153;Captain Bigbeardâ&#x20AC;? and his misfit crew of Scallywags! Tickets are $10 in advance or $12 at the door, which includes dessert and drink. Visit www.millbrooktheatre.com or call 334-782-7317 for more information. Blood Drive When: Jan. 10, 1-4 p.m. Where: CVS of Tallassee Details: Hosted by LifeSouth Community Blood Centers, Inc. National Championship Game Viewing and Tailgate Party When: Jan. 11, 6 p.m. Where: Montgomery Performing Arts Center Details: Come early and be a part of the tailgate party starting at 6 p.m. and then at halftime with hamburgers, hot dogs, wings and other tailgate-type foods as well as door prizes. The cost is $25 per person. The doors open at 6:30 p.m. to watch the game for free with drinks, popcorn and candy on sale in the lobby. Self-Defense Class When: Jan. 11 Where: Tallassee Recreation Center Details: Contact the recreation department if you are interested in a self-defense class. The class would consist of situational awareness, prevention, recognition of criminal behavior and some physical defense. Cost would be $55. Call 334-283-4726. Eclectic Girls Club Meeting When: Jan. 13, 10:30 a.m. Where: Kountry Kitchen, Eclectic Details: All are invited. Make friends, meet old acquaintances, enjoy fun, food and fellowship. Lunch is $10. Call Penny Holley at 334-306-0929 for more information. The Black Jacket Symphony Presents â&#x20AC;&#x153;Journey ESC4P3â&#x20AC;? When: Jan. 15, 8 p.m. Where: Montgomery Performing Arts Centre Details: Tickets start at $25. Purchase them at ticketmaster.com Tim Tebow â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Journey Continues...â&#x20AC;? When: Jan. 16, 7 p.m. Where: Montgomery Performing Arts Centre Details: Tickets start at $60. Purchase them at ticketmaster.com. Proceeds benefit the Cancer Wellness Foundation of Central Alabama. McCraney-Cottle Arts Council presents â&#x20AC;&#x153;Alice in Wonderlandâ&#x20AC;? When: Jan. 16, 7 p.m. Where: Tallassee High School Auditorium Details: A Missoula Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Theatre production offers attendees on a whimsically madcap, funfilled fantasy. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students. Call Mona Mills at 334-201-4892 for more information. MLK Celebration When: Jan. 17, 3 p.m. Where: Wetumpka Civic Center Details: Various pastors of area churches and other leaders will be on hand to speak during this MLK celebration. 21st Annual MLK March When: Jan. 18, 10:30 a.m. Where: March will start at Rogers Chapel AME Zion Church at 209 W. Bridge St. Details: The march will continue from the church across the Bibb Graves Bridge.

2016 Candidate Fair When: Jan. 18, 6-8 p.m. Where: Wetumpka Civic Center Details: Get a chance to meet the area candidates running in the March 1 primary. AUM Martin Luther King Jr. Reflections Breakfast When: Jan. 19, 7:30-9 a.m. Where: Taylor Center at AUM Details: Guest speaker will be Douglas Jones, who was lead attorney in the successful prosecution of two Ku Klux Klansmen in the 1963 bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham. It is free and open to the public, but there is limited seating. Tallassee Chamber of Commerce Annual Banquet When: Jan. 21, 6-9:30 p.m. Where: Wetumpka Civic Center Details: Tickets are $35 per person or $250 for a table of eight. Speakers will be Mack and Ria Story. Call 334-283-5151 for more information. Elmore County Parenting Expo When: Jan. 21, 5-7 p.m. Where: Wetumpka High School Details: This event is to help educate parents on things like cyber bullying, current drug trends, financial aid, college info, various parenting resources in our area, etc. Wind Creekâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s food truck â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Good to Goâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; will be at the school providing Chicken Chili w/ cornbread to those that attend this event. Expo sponsored by the Elmore County Technical Center. Call 334-567-1218 for more information. Live in Concert: Boyz II Men When: Jan. 23, 8 p.m. Where: Wind Creek Entertainment Center, Wetumpka Details: The four-time Grammy Award winning group will perform for the first time in Wetumpka. In addition to four Grammys, the group won nine American Music Awards and nine Sould Train Awards. Tickets are available on Ticketmaster.com Prattville Mardi Gras Celebration and Parade When: Jan. 23, 11 a.m. Where: Downtown Prattville Details: The celebration starts at 11 a.m. followed by the parade at 2 p.m. Taste of Elmore County When: Jan. 25, 6-8 p.m. Where: Wetumpka Civic Center Details: Tickets are $25 each and will benefit the Elmore County Food Pantry. Purchase tickets at the food pantry. Elmore County Relay for Life Kickoff Battle of the Bands When: Jan. 28, 6 p.m. Where: Wetumpka Civic Center Details: Applications for the bands to enter can be found at www.relayforlife.org/wetumpkaal Millbrook Revelers Mardi Gras Festival and Parade When: Jan. 30, 9 a.m. Where: Village Green, downtown Millbrook Details: Festival grounds with various rides for children and vendors will open at 9 a.m. The parade will begin at noon. Kathleen Madigan - The Mermaid Lady Tour When: Feb. 6, 7:30 p.m. Where: Montgomery Performing Arts Centre Details: Tickets start at $17. Purchase them at ticketmaster.com. Wetumpka Area Chamber of Commerce Membership Dinner When: Feb. 9, 5:30 p.m. Where: Wetumpka Civic Center Details: Annual meeting and reception Roaring 20s style. Call 334-567-4811 for more information. Wetumpka Depot Players present â&#x20AC;&#x153;Steel Magnoliasâ&#x20AC;? When: Feb. 11-14 & Feb. 18-21 Where: Wetumpka Depot Theatre Details: Purchase tickets by calling 334-868-1440 or log on to www.wetumpkadepot.com Elmore County Relay for Life Committee and Team Camptain Meeting When: Feb. 11, 5:30 p.m. Where: Elmore County Firefighters Association (191 Red Eagle Drive), Wetumpka Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day Blues Show When: Feb. 13, 7 p.m. Where: Garrett Coliseum, Montgomery Details: Show features Betty Wright, Willie Clayton, Wyndell â&#x20AC;&#x153;B,â&#x20AC;? J-Wonn and Vick Allen. Table seating is $45 and arena seating is $40. Tickets are available at www.ticketmaster.com Eat Healthy! Live Healthy!

When: Feb. 16, 7 p.m. Where: Main Sanctuary of Shoal Creek Baptist Church, Deatsville Details: Registered dietitian Allan Higginbotham will be the special guest speaker at the free event. It is sponsored by the churchâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s library team. Elmore County Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 19th Annual Hunting Heritage Dinner When: Feb. 18, 6 p.m. Where: Wetumpka Civic Center Details: Single, couples, sponsor and corporate table tickets available. A ticket includes an all â&#x20AC;&#x153;you can eatâ&#x20AC;? ribs and chicken meal as well as a one-year NWTF membership. Other activities included with tickets: silent auction, live auction, raffles including a total of 19 guns to be given away. For other information and/ or tickets, call Gene Calhoun 334-315-2636 or Phil Savage 334-850-7997.

Serving Lake Martin, Tallassee and the Surrounding Area

RODNEY GRIFFITH

Carhartt Bassmaster College Series Southern Regional When: Feb. 6, first light until 6 p.m. Where: Lake Martin Details: The season begins on Lake Martin as some of the best collegiate anglers hit the water for the top prize. For more information go to www.bassmaster. com

Tea Party at Seven Gables When: Feb. 20, 10 a.m. Where: Seven Gables, Tallassee Details: Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll get dressed up and have some tea and hor dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;oeuvres. Bring a friend. Special appearance from a princess. First child is $35 and additional siblings are $25 each. Call 334-283-2900 to reserve.

Alabama Bass Trail South on Lake Martin When: Feb. 20, 5 a.m. Where: Lake Martin Details: The first stop of the Alabama Bass Trail South Tour. Future stops will be on Lewis Smith Lake, Lay Lake and Lake Jordan. Log on to www.alabamabasstrail.org for more information.

Elmore County Humane Shelter presents: Getting Down with the Dawgs Drawdown When: Feb. 20, 5 p.m. Where: Wind Creek Wetumpka Entertainment Center Details: A $100 ticket gives you a 1 in 300 opportunity to win $10,000. Tickets include buffet dinner, chance to win door prizes. There will also be a cash bar. Tickets are now on sale. Call 334-567-3377 for more information.

Color in Motion 5K Montgomery When: Feb. 27, 9 a.m. Where: Montgomery MotorSports Park Details: Registration is $50 per person. You show up wearing white and we do the rest! As you sprint, jog, waddle, or leisurely stroll along the course you will be bombarded with bright colors that transform a group of ordinary runners into a moving rainbow! Go to www.colorinmotion5k.com for more information.

Montgomery Chamber Music Organization presents the Dover Quartet When: Feb. 23, 7:30 p.m. Where: Wilson Auditorium, Montgomery Details: For more information or ticket information call 334-277-3505 or log on to www.montgomerychambermusic.org

Government

Sports & Outdoors Girls Lacross Clinic When: Jan. 10, 3-4:30 p.m. Where: Charles Lee Field, Huntingdon College Details: Free clinic is open to girls in grades 1-12. To participate you must have sneakers or cleats, a mouth guard, water and functional clothing to participate in athletics. Email bmuir@huntingdon.edu for more information. Slapout Strikeout 5K Walk/Run and Kids 1 mile Home Plate Dash When: Jan. 16 Where: Holtville High School Details: Registration is $25 per person for 5K runners; Registration is 10 and Under Home Plate Dash runners is $15. Proceeds benefit the Holtville High Softball Team.

WEB: www.rodneygrifÂżth.com EMAIL: rodneygrifÂżth@windstream.net LAKE MARTIN VIEW â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 260 South Lands End, 3 bd/2 ba, 1 acre, $135,000. TALLASSEE â&#x20AC;&#x201C; McNEAL STREET, 2 bd/1 ba, close to national guard armory, $55,000. COMMERCIAL BUSINESS â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Hwy. 229 in Red Hill (formerly Red Hill Cottage Restaurant), over 3000 sq. ft. on 3 ACRES, only $99,500. OAK HEIGHTS â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Nice home, 3 bd/1 bath, large kitchen & den, $43,000. REDUCED! RIVER HILLS SUBDIVISION â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 23 lots, great views of Lake Tallassee, underground utilities, sewage. Prices start at only $20,000. 2 SOLD â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 21 remaining. W. PATTON â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Brick, 3 bd/1 ba, new heat pump, hardwood ďŹ&#x201A;oors, 2 lots, $69,900. ECLECTIC â&#x20AC;&#x201C; NEW MOBILE HOME on 1.2 ACRE lot, 3 bd/ 2 ba, ďŹ&#x201A;at yard, lg. deck, on Ga. Rd. close to Rushenville Church. $69,000. 2206 HWY. 120 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2 miles from Reeltown School, brick, 3 bd/2 ba, heat pump, hardwood ďŹ&#x201A;oors. Beautiful yards, new roof, close to Kiwi Farm. 100% ďŹ nancing for qualiďŹ ed 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 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 4 bd/2ba., large lot, very modern, & pretty, only $215,000. 8 ACRES KENT RD â&#x20AC;&#x201C; REDUCED TO $45,000. 27 ACRES CLAUDE RD. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; $80,000. TALLASSEE GILMER AVE. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 3bd/2 ba next to DQ zoned commercial, REDUCED TO $125,000. TALLASSEE BRICK HOME â&#x20AC;&#x201C; on 1 acre with a 2 acre ďŹ sh 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 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 8 ACRES close to Walmart on Hwy 14, REDUCED $198,500. MULLINS STREETâ&#x20AC;&#x201C; Eclectic, 1991 Doublewide mobile home on ďŹ&#x201A;at acre lot 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, very private, $45,000.

Elmore County Commission Meeting When: Jan. 11, 5 p.m. Where: Old Elmore County Courthouse Details: A work session will begin at 5 p.m. followed by the regular meeting. Tallassee City Council Meeting When: Jan. 11, 6 to 7:30 p.m. Where: Tallassee City Hall Elmore County BOE Meeting When: Jan. 19, 4:30 p.m. Where: Elmore County Board of Education board room, 100 H.H. Robison Drive, Wetumpka Details: Anyone wishing to be placed on the regular board meeting agenda must make an official request to the superintendentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s office before 4 p.m. Wetumpka City Council Meeting When: Jan. 19, 6 p.m. Where: Wetumpka City Hall Details: A work session will begin at 6 p.m., followed by the regular meeting.

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Millbrook Spring Softball Clinic When: Jan. 30, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Where: Stanhope Elmore High School, Millbrook Details: Registration is $25 per person. The clinic is for fielding and hitting for girls ages 7 and above. Then there will be a catching and pitching clinic immdiately following. Space is limited to the first 20 pitchers and catchers. This clinic is $25 per person. Call Dane Urban at 334-651-9587 or Scott Farlow at 334-660-6574 to register or for more information.

Millbrook Players present â&#x20AC;&#x153;Liâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;l Abnerâ&#x20AC;? When: Feb. 18-21 & Feb. 25-28 Where: Millbrook Community Theatre Details: Based on the classic comic strip, Liâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;l Abner is packed with one show stopping dance after another - pure entertainment for the whole family! Tickets are $8 for children ages 6-12. Tickets are $12 for ages 12 and up. Visit www.millbrooktheatre.com or call 334782-7317 for more information.

RODNEY GRIFFITH Lake Martin Properties

Pain the Park for Jody 5K Color Run When: Jan. 30, 9 a.m. Where: Gold Star Park, Wetumpka Details: Registration fee is $40 per person with the proceeds going to support the Jody Marie Sanford Memorial Scholarship Fund. Registration and packet pickup begins at 7:30 a.m. the day of the race. The race begins at 9 a.m. Call 334-685-3525 or 334-4306627 for more information.

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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 The Wetumpka Herald

PAGE 4 • JANUARY 9-10, 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

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ELMORE COUNTY WEEKEND

The Herald strives to report the news honestly, fairly and with integrity, to take a leadership role and act as a positive influence in our community, to promote business, to provide for the welfare of our employees, to strive for excellence in everything we do and, above all, to treat others as we would want to be treated ourselves.

Doing better in 2016

s we say goodbye to 2015, we are looking forward to a productive 2016. The City of Wetumpka had a great year and we have so much to be grateful for. We completed phase two of the sports complex and are already developing a plan for phase three. Phase one of the downtown redevelopment project was completed, as well. I would personally like to commend the businesses of downtown and their patrons for being patient with this project. The impact of Willis construction hasn’t always been agreeable, but the inconvenience will be well worth the finished product. Phase 2, which will include the sidewalks and streetscape, is expected to begin in May. Again, I thank everyone for their patience as these improvements to our city are under construction. I also appreciate all the phone calls and messages complimenting our first responders, employees and volunteers who offered their help during the flood. We never like to be put into these dangerous situations, but it’s reassuring to know we have professionals who know how to handle them correctly. If anyone has any concerns regarding city issues, I encourage you to contact my office at 567-1314. I have always and will continue to have an open door policy. It takes us all staying positive and working together to make Wetumpka a better place. I would like to conclude, by thanking the employees, volunteers and participants for once again pulling off a successful Christmas on the Coosa. Countless hours go into the planning of all the events occurring throughout the month and I want everyone to know how appreciative I am for the time and energy they put into making it a wonderful event. This tradition continues to grow in Wetumpka and displays a tremendous amount of community pride. We had gorgeous weather and a great turnout and I couldn’t be prouder of this city. Now let’s move on to an even better 2016. Happy New Year and God bless.

Great accomplishments, great students. . . every day

y first year as Superintendent of Elmore County Public Schools has come to a close, and I would like to share some of the highlights of 2015 with you. Our academic programs have experienced exciting growth and changes. We have implemented Aspire Periodic Assessments to guide our efforts to help all children meet the rigorous College and Career Ready standards in reading and mathematics. All students in grades K-4 now receive music instruction, and they have already demonstrated their accomplishments through various performances. We held our first Elementary Academic/Enrichment Summer Camps in two communities last summer and plan to host these in all areas in 2016. Twenty-first Century Community Learning Centers continue to be successful afterschool enrichment programs in all of our middle schools. We have partnered with Central Alabama Community College to offer dual enrollment courses to our high school students and we have made Stanhope Elmore High School available for CACC to offer evening courses to community members interested in pursuing postsecondary education. Our Career-Technical Education Program has added three new programs on the campus of

ANDRE HARRISON Guest Columnist

the Elmore County Technical Center: Public Safety and Law, Automotive Technology, and Hospitality and Tourism. A new Culinary Arts Program has been added at Holtville High School, including a complete kitchen renovation with restaurant-grade fixtures and equipment. We are very proud of the increase in the graduation rate for the district: 86 percent in 2014 to 90 percent in 2015. There was also an increase in the graduation rate at each of our four high schools. Finally, the Class of 2015 was awarded a combined total of $9.1 million in scholarships. Elmore County is the first school system in Alabama to pilot full-time working dogs in schools. We have nine specially-trained dogs in elementary and secondary classrooms with the possibility of additional dogs to be placed. The program will study the impact of full-time assistance dogs on truancy, disruptive behavior, stress, peer isolation, and bullying. All of our school buses now include a GPS/radio system as well as

video for increased safety for our students. Our first annual Teacher of the Year Banquet was held last spring to honor each school’s Teacher of the Year as well as the elementary and secondary Teachers of the Year for the district. We have also experienced an increase in the number of teachers and administrators holding advanced degrees, especially doctorates. Approximately 58 percent of certified staff hold a Master’s degree or higher, and this number continues to climb. Superintendent’s roundtable meetings were held in Eclectic, Holtville, Millbrook, Redland and Wetumpka in November and December. These meetings were open to the public and provided a forum to share information and receive public input on our school system. We received valuable input to help us better meet the needs of our stakeholders. I continue to be amazed at the wonderful things that go on across the Elmore County Public School System on any given day, but I must say that it is being with the students that I enjoy the most. It is truly an honor to serve as superintendent, and I am thankful for this opportunity every day. Harrison is the Superintendent of Schools for Elmore County.

YOUR VIEW

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334-567-7811 • Fax 334-567-3284 e-mail: News@TheWetumpkaHerald.com THE WETUMPKA HERALD (681-260) is published twice weekly on Wednesday and Saturday by Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc., 548 Cherokee Road, Alexander City, AL 35010. Periodical postage paid at Wetumpka, Alabama. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Wetumpka Herald, P.O. Box 99, Wetumpka, AL 36092-0099. ISSN # 1536-688X. We reserve the right to refuse to print any advertisement, news story, photograph or any other material submitted to us for any reason or no reason at all. •Obituaries - $.25 per word per paper. Additional $15 charge for a photo per paper. (Herald, Weekend, Observer, Tribune). •Weddings/Engagements - $.25 per word per paper. $15 charge for 2-column photo. •Birth Announcements - $.25 per word per paper. $15 charge for a photo in each newspaper. SUBSCRIPTION RATES (includes Wednesday & Saturday) One Year in Elmore, Tallapoosa or Coosa County $50 One Year Elsewhere $75 The publisher reserves the right to change subscription rates during the term of subscription at any time. To subscribe or if you miss your paper, call 256-234-4281. © 2015 Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. All rights reserved and any reproduction of this issue is prohibited without the consent of the editor or publisher. NEWS John Peeler, managing editor John.Peeler@TheWetumpkaHerald.com. . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 302 Cory Diaz, sports editor Cory.Diaz@TheWetumpkaHerald.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 306 Kevin Taylor, copy editor Kevin.Taylor@TheWetumpkaHerald.com.. . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 312 SALES Jayne Carr, marketing consultant Jayne.Carr@TheWetumpkaHerald.com. . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 313

Member

A new year, a strong start

s the House convenes for the Second Session of the 114th Congress, it is important to get off to a strong start. That’s why I’m pleased the very first bill to be considered this year is a plan to repeal Obamacare and begin the process of replacing it with healthcare policy that works. It is past time for this law to go. Under Obamacare, many in Alabama and throughout the country lost the health plans they liked. Many have been forced to go to different doctors, to say nothing of the doctors who stopped practicing altogether. Premiums skyrocketed and many middle class families are being impacted by new taxes, fees and penalties. I wouldn’t blame you for thinking, “So what? The House has voted to repeal Obamacare dozens of times.” It’s true that my colleagues and I in the House have voted more than 50 times to repeal, defund or replace the president’s health care law. And, each time, our efforts are ultimately blocked in the Senate, where Republicans lack the 60 votes needed to overcome a Democratic filibuster. What’s different this time? This time our plan was carefully crafted to follow the Senate’s special

MARTHA ROBY U.S. Representative

“Reconciliation” rule that allows certain budget-related legislation to go through by a majority vote regardless of a filibuster. The Senate came through in late 2015 passing the Obamacare repeal reconciliation package by a vote of 52-47. That means when the House takes up and passes the measure first thing this year, we will finally send a bill repealing Obamacare to the president’s desk. Some may quibble that this is somehow an empty gesture. After all, President Obama will never sign a bill repealing his signature legislative achievement and the law that bears his name. However, as veteran lawmakers like Sen. Jeff Sessions (R-Ala.) and Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX) have pointed out, forcing a veto puts accountability for this deceptive, costly healthcare law squarely on President Obama. It also sends a clear message to the American people that, under a new president in 2017, Congress

stands ready to replace this disastrous law with healthcare policies that put patients first. That’s a message I believe will be well-received, especially now. Just as Obamacare mandates and penalties have started setting in, many signing up for health plans are facing “higher premiums, fewer doctors and skimpier coverage,” according to The Wall Street Journal. For those who do get coverage, the out-of-pocket expenses of actually seeing a doctor have risen dramatically in a maze of deductibles, copays, and “co-insurance,” the paper reports. Yes, President Obama can stop our Obamacare repeal reconciliation package from becoming law this year. But, he cannot stop the growing chorus of Americans unhappy with the higher costs and broken promises of his healthcare law. Their voices are being heard in Congress, where, finally, a majority in both the House and Senate are ready to end this failed experiment and deliver better, more workable healthcare policy. Martha Roby represents Alabama’s 2nd Congressional District. She lives in Montgomery with her husband, Riley and their two children.

FAITH

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Page 5 • JANUARY 9-10, 2016

et me start out on a negative note. What are the signs you are getting

older? “Everything hurts and everything that doesn’t hurt doesn’t work.” “The gleam in your eyes is from the sun hitting your bifocals.” “Your little black book contains only names ending in M.D.” “Your knees buckle and your belt won’t.” “Your back goes out more than you do.” “You sink your teeth into a steak, and they stay there.” “You buy a compass for the dash of your car.” “The little old gray haired lady you helped across the street is your wife.” I say all this to say that while my wife celebrated a birthday this week, none of those apply

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

Diane Wilkinson Smith, passed quietly in her home Monday, Dec. 28, 2015. A memorial service will be held at 1:30 p.m. Jan. 9 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Wetumpka with Gassett Funeral Home directing. She is preceded in death by her husband, Howell W. Smith, and her son, Robert. She is survived by her sister, Rita, two sons, David and Mark, six grandchildren, Mike, Chase, Ross, Nate, Haley, and Dan, as well as three great grandchildren, Anderson, Mason, and Mary Elise. Diane was salutatorian for her high school class in Eufaula. Her college studies were completed with a teaching degree from Huntingdon College as well as her master’s degree from the University of West Florida.

AME ZION Mt. Zion Chapel AME Zion 2340 Crenshaw Rd., Wetumpka 567-4413 Rogers Chapel AME Zion 709 W. Bridge St., Wetumpka 567-8144 Jackson Chapel AME Zion 4885 Coosada Rd., Coosada Jones Chapel AME Zion 2414 Ingram Rd. (Co. Rd. 3), Elmore ABUNDANT LIFE Abundant Life Church 9301 U.S. Hwy 231., Wetumpka 567-9143 ASSEMBLY OF GOD Agape Tabernacle Assembly of God 1076 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic 541-2006 Bethel Worship Center 11117 U.S. Hwy 231., Wetumpka 567-5754 Crossroads Assembly of God 2534 AL Hwy 14., Millbrook 285-5545 First Assembly of God 3511 Shirley Ln., Millbrook New Home Assembly of God 5620 Caesarville Rd., Wetumpka 569-2825 BAPTIST Abraham Baptist Church Millbrook Antioch Baptist Church 1115 Antioch Rd., Titus 567-2917 Beulah Baptist Church 2350 Grier Rd., Wetumpka 514-2881 Blue Ridge Baptist 4471 Jasmine Hill Rd., Wetumpka 567-4325 Brookwood Baptist Grandview Rd., Millbrook Calvary Baptist 504 W. Osceola St., Wetumpka 567-4729 Central Baptist 3545 W. Central Rd., Wetumpka 541-2556 Coosada Baptist 20 Kennedy Ave., Coosada Deatsville Baptist 184 Church St., Deatsville Eclectic Baptist Church 203 Claud Rd., Eclectic 541-4444 Faith Baptist 64 Chapel Rd., Wetumpka 567-4417 First Baptist Church 205 W. Bridge St., Wetumpka 567-5191 First Baptist of Elmore Hwy. 14 Co. Rd. 74, Elmore Galilee Baptist 95 Old Georgia Rd., Wetumpka 567-4178 Good Hope Baptist 1766 S. Fleahop Rd., Eclectic Goodship Baptist Hwy. 143, Millbrook Grace Baptist Old Montgomery Hwy., Wetumpka 567-3255 Grandview Pines Baptist Deatsville Hwy., Deatsville Green Ridge Baptist

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ELMORE COUNTY WEEKEND

I’m slowly learning to celebrate

to her. Did you get that baby none, absolutely none! Jeannie is as energetic as ever; she exercises and eats properly and never stops for anything if she can find something to do. It wears me out just watching her from my recliner as I hold my Creme Soda and Twinkie. This week my wife did have a birthday. That might not mean much to you, but in our family birthdays are quite an occasion. I must admit it is not due to my making, but my wife, Jeannie’s. In my home, prior to marriage, birthdays were rarely noticed and never celebrated. I grew up like that and due to that attitude was OK with it. But then, I married Jeannie. Jeannie trained our children and me in the need to observe birthdays. I mean it was an all-day affair. There were happy birthdays

She graciously took on the role of an Army Air Corp/ Air Force officer’s wife, in addition to her teaching career. Some of her teaching career found her as head of the math department at Gulf Breeze High School in Florida. Volunteer work included the Red Cross in Japan, bookwork at our Lady of Guadalupe, faculty sponsor of the National Honor Society at Gulf Breeze High School. She also helped the public with tax preparation on many occasions. Burial will be at 11 a.m. Jan. 16 at Macedonia Primitive Bap tist Church in Section. Memorial donations may be made to Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, 545 White Road, Wetumpka, AL 36092. Online guest book available at www.gassettfuneralhome. net

JAMES TROGLEN First Baptist Church

when you got up, cake, parties, presents and singing all day long. It took me quite a few years to get used to it. I still fail at the event from time to time, but not the rest of the family. For instance this past birthday my daughter shows up at my wife’s work with larger than life balloons celebrating her age, cupcakes and her two daughters singing Happy Birthday. Then she arranged at the church evening meal, Wednesday, for there to be another cake for the church to enjoy and another

round of Happy Birthday. Our cook even let the girls help with the cake. Then there was my wife’s birthday party in which she decided the best party was to take all her grandkids to ChuckE-Cheese where we proceeded to divest ourselves of our retirement income and all our 401K. We are now officially broke! The kids had brought two balloons indicating her age a 1 and a 6. Now don’t get ahead of me, but my wife is very sharp. She made sure the balloons were never in the same order so was she 16, or 61 or as she said put them together anyway you want such as 1 plus 6, or 61 minus 16, or 16, or 6 plus 1. You get the picture. The truth is birthdays for our family are not a way of celebrating an age but life. It is a day where that person is special, val-

ued, shown how glad we are for them to be a part of our family. It’s their day as we say, “Boy as a family we are so glad you’re here and a part of us.” That is a grand thing to have happen to you? Isn’t it? More people need to catch that type of vision. Birthdays aren’t sad times to say, “Oh, well I’m another year older and closer to the grave.” It is not a time to celebrate the passing of life like, “Yeah! I’m now 16 another year of life gone.” It is a time to celebrate a person. My wife has taught me a lot these past 41 odd years, and I am learning, slowly, but learning and grateful. “Happy Birthday Baby!” Dr. James Troglen is pastor of First Baptist Church of Wetumpka.

Religion Calendar

Obituaries Diane Wilkinson Smith

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•Seman Congregational Christian Church on Alabama Highway 9 having a revival with Brother Scott Jordan Jan. 1013. Service times will be 7 p.m. each day. 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 encour-

288 Turner Rd., Wetumpka 567-2486 Harvest Baptist 2990 Main St., Millbrook Hillside Baptist 405 Old Montgomery Hwy., Wetumpka Holtville Riverside Baptist 7121 Holtville Rd., Wetumpka 514-5922 Lake Elam Baptist 4060 Gober Rd., Millbrook Liberty Hill Baptist 61 Crenshaw Rd., Wetumpka 567-8750 Lighthouse Baptist 2281 Main St., Millbrook Living Water Baptist 1745 Grass Farm Rd. (Co. Rd. 80), Weoka Millbrook Baptist Millbrook 285-4731 Mitts Chapel Baptist 935 Cold Springs Rd., Deatsville 569-1952 Mt. Hebron West Baptist 150 Mt. Hebron Rd., Elmore 567-4441 Mountain View Baptist 1025 Rifle Range Rd., Wetumpka 567-4458 New Harmony Baptist 3094 New Harmony Rd., Marbury 312-1878 New Home Baptist 1605 New Home Rd., Titus 567-0923 New Hope Baptist 6191 Lightwood Rd., Deatsville 569-1267 New Lily Green Baptist 6504 Deatsville Hwy., Deatsville New Nazareth Baptist Hwy. 143, Deatsville Pleasant Hill Baptist Pleasant Hill Rd., Eclectic 541-3460 Prospect Baptist Prospect Rd., Eclectic 567-5837 Redland Baptist 1266 Dozier Rd., Wetumpka 567-8649 Rehoberth Baptist 8110 Rifle Range Rd., Tallassee 567-9801 Rushenville Baptist 10098 Georgia Rd., Eclectic 541-2418 Saint James Baptist 1005 Nobles Rd., Wetumpka 567-6209 Saint James Baptist 101 Gantt Rd., Deatsville 569-3006 Santuck Baptist 7250 Central Plank Rd., Wetumpka 567-2364 Seman Baptist Seman, Alabama Shoal Creek Baptist 13214 Holtville Rd., Deatsville 569-2482 Springfield Baptist Hwy. 7, Millbrook Thelma Baptist 810 Weoka Rd., Wetumpka 567-3665 Titus Baptist 6930 Titus Rd., Wetumpka 334-531-2120 Tunnell Chapel Baptist

aged to attend.

334-567-5966 or 334-398-5697.

•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.

•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.

•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 334498-4646 for more information. •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

210 Central Plank Rd., Wetumpka 567-2589 Victory Baptist 5481 Main St., Millbrook Wadsworth Baptist 2780 Hwy. 143, Deatsville 569-2851 BAPTIST - MISSIONARY Atkins Hill 565 Atkins Rd., Wetumpka 567-1141 Cathmagby Baptist 3074 Mitchell Creek Rd., Wetumpka 567-4787 First Missionary Baptist at Guilfield 412 Company St., Wetumpka 567-7455 Goodhope 1389 Willow Springs Rd. Wetumpka 567-7133 Lebanon 17877 U.S. Hwy. 231, Titus 514-1097 Mount Canaan 1125 Weoka Rd., Wetumpka 567-2141 Mount Pisgah 16621 U.S. Hwy. 231, Titus 567-3668 Mt. Zion 371 AL Hwy. 14, Elmore, 567-2613 Mt. Zion #3 1813 Luke Paschal Rd., Eclectic New Home 5130 Elmore Rd., Wetumpka 567-5966 Second Missionary 760 N. Bridge St., Wetumpka 567-8601 Spring Chapel Jasmine Hill Rd., Wetumpka 567-6493 Sweetwater 163 Michael Lane, Wetumpka 334-538-9415 Tabernacle Baptist 1020 W. Tallassee St., Wetumpka 567-0620 BAPTIST - PRIMITIVE Bethel Old School 4625 Jackson Rd. (C.R. 103), Wetumpka Providence 4850 Chana Creek Rd., Wetumpka CATHOLIC Our Lady of Guadalupe 545 White Rd., Wetumpka 567-0311 CHURCH OF CHRIST Church of Christ of Elmore 470 Caesarville Rd., Wetumpka 567-6670 Church of Christ Grandview Pines 165 Deatsville Hwy., Millbrook Cold Springs Church of Christ 5920 Alabama Hwy. 143, Deatsville Georgia Road Church of Christ 4003 Georgia Rd., Wetumpka 567-2804 Lightwood Church of Christ 251 New Harmony Rd., Deatsville 569-1510 Redland Road Church of Christ 2480 Redland Rd., Wetumpka 514-3656 Wetumpka Church of Christ W. Bridge St. At W. Main St., Wetumpka 567-6561 CHURCH OF GOD Elmore Church of God 10675 Rucker Road, Elmore

•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 located at 504 West Osceola Street, Wetumpka. For more information, call the church office at 334-567-4729.

Gethsemane Church of God 705 Cotton St., Wetumpka 567-9886 Church at the Brook 2890 Hwy. 14, Millbrook Maranatha Church of God 2621 Holtville Rd., Wetumpka 567-6786 Victory Tabernacle AOH Church of God Hwy 143, Millbrook Wetumpka Church of God Hwy. 9 N. Wetumpka 215-3091 CONGREGATIONAL CHRISTIAN Cedarwood Congregational Christian 10286 US Hwy 231 N, Wetumpka 567-0476 Seman Congregational Christian 15970 Central Plank Rd., Seman Union Congregational Christian 8188 Lightwood Rd., Marbury 569-2122 EPISCOPAL The Episcopal Church of the Epiphany 2602 Gilmer Ave., Tallassee 252-8618 Trinity Episcopal Church 5371 U.S. Hwy. 231, Wetumpka 567-7534 St. Michael & All Angels Church 5941 Main St., Millbrook HOLINESS New Beginnings Holiness 865 Crenshaw Rd., Wetumpka 567-9211 Summit Holiness 2050 Hwy. 14, Millbrook Temple of Deliverance Holiness 620 Alabama St., Wetumpka 514-3114 JEHOVAH’S WITNESS Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses 9235 U.S. Hwy. 231, Wetumpka 567-8100 LATTER DAY SAINTS Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints 1405 Chapel Rd., Wetumpka 567-8339 Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints Cobbs Ford Rd., Millbrook LUTHERAN Christ Lutheran Church 2175 Cobbs Ford Rd., Prattville PRESBYTERIAN First Presbyterian Church 100 W. Bridge St., Wetumpka 567-8135 Millbrook Presbyterian Corner of Main St. & Coosada Rd. Valley View Presbyterian - PCA 4125 Rifle Range Rd. Wetumpka 386-2386 SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST First Elmore Seventh Day Adventist 210 Lucky Town Rd., Elmore 514-1020 INDEPENDENT METHODIST Claud Independent Methodist Church 81232 Tallassee Hwy, Eclectic 541-2552 UNITED METHODIST Cain’s Chapel United Methodist 96 Lightwood Rd., Deatsville 569-2375 Central United Methodist Church 11721 Central Plank Rd. Central

Submit your church calendar items and events to: kevin.taylor@thewetumpkaherald.com

•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. •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.

Elmore United Methodist Church 40 Hatchet St., Elmore 567-8653 First United Methodist Church 306 W. Tuskeena St., Wetumpka 567-7865 First United Methodist Church 3350 Edgewood, Millbrook Harmony United Methodist Church 8000 Titus Rd., Titus Mulder Memorial United Methodist 3454 Fire Tower Rd., Wetumpka 567-4225 New Style United Methodist 64 Old Georgia Plank Spur, Wetumpka 567-9840 Oak Valley Station United Methodist 162 Parsonage Road, Tallassee 541-3924 Pierce Chapel United Methodist 1003 Pierce Chapel Rd., Santuck 265-6099 Providence United Methodist 1540 Providence Rd., Titus Robinson Springs Methodist Church 5980 Main St., Millbrook Trinity United Methodist 135 Little Weoka Creek Rd., Equality 567-9997 Union United Methodist 691 Central Rd. Eclectic Wallsboro United Methodist 11066 US Hwy. 231, Wetumpka CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE Millbrook Church of the Nazarene 3251 Browns Rd., Millbrook PENTECOSTAL Faith Deliverance Church 475 Jackson St., Elmore 567-9209 OTHER Central Bible Chapel 3630 Edgewood Rd., Millbrook Chapel of Praise Hwy. 14, Millbrook Cornerstone Full Gospel 9301 US Hwy. 231, Wetumpka 567-9143 East Chapel MP Church Airport Rd., Millbrook Grace Bible Church 2251 Main St., Millbrook Gracepoint Community Church 78223 Tallassee Highway, Wetumpka 514-9292 New Life Church - Millbrook Sanctuary Worship Center 1688 Ceasarville Rd., Wetumpka Servant Fellowship Church P O Box 1423, Wetumpka 567-2190 servantfellowshipchurch@windstream.net The Worship Center 2705 Williams Rd., Wetumpka Time of Refreshing Fellowship 117 E. Bridge St., Wetumpka 567-7750 Victory Temple (Pentecostal church) 1173 Old Montgomery Hwy., Wetumpka 567-7779 Words of Life Church 105 Cousins Rd., Wetumpka 514-2730

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Page 6 • JANUARY 9-10, 2016

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JANUARY 9-10, 2016 • Page 7

Page 8 • JANUARY 9-10, 2016

SPORTS TheWetumpkaHerald.com

2015 Wetumpka Herald

Oﬀensive Player of the Year:

Nathan Rourke Edgewood Academy

BY CORY DIAZ Sports Editor

n his first day at Edgewood Academy, Nathan Rourke showed up with a notepad. The Oakville, Ontario, Canada native arrived in Alabama listed as his home country’s No. 1-ranked high school quarterback prospect, but Rourke took notes from Edgewood head football coach Bobby Carr to accelerate the transition -- a process that was tough in the beginning. “The whole thing was pretty tough,” Rourke said. “I look back at the spring practices, we had a Green and White Game, and I just remember making a lot of mental mistakes and just not being comfortable.” While his new signal caller was shifting to essentially a brand new game, Canadian football has 12 men on offense and defense and a wider and longer playing surface, there was no doubt to Carr what he had. “He’s a born leader. If I had to describe him in two words its he’s a born leader,” Carr said. “I tell you, his first day at Edgewood, he showed up with a notepad and he took notes on everything I told him about football,” Carr said. “He just soaked it all in and he learned our offense faster than any quarterback ever has.” Rourke said finding his place in a program that’s won five consecutive state championships and 58 straight games before he got there was a lit-

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tle unsettling, but immediately being accepted by his new teammates gave him his role. “I think the easiest part of the whole transition, the whole experience was coming down here, coming into this culture, coming into this atmosphere that coach Carr has created. I think it would’ve been harder if I felt like an outsider on the team, but they embraced me,” the senior said. “It was easy to find a leadership role, and that’s where I’m comfortable. I was able to get to that point really quickly.” Summer 7-on-7 competitions allowed Rourke to memorize the terminology of Carr’s offense. In the Wildcats’ 2015 season opener versus reigning Class AAA state champions Escambia Academy, the quarterback threw four touchdowns in the first half, but failed the find the end zone for the remainder of the game. Two weeks later, he passed for six touchdowns against Glenwood -the first of four games he threw for six scores this year. He fought threw the self-induced pressure, Rourke said, and things started to click for the Canadian as he went on to tie an Alabama high school record and set the AISA mark for touchdown passes with 59, to go along with his Edgewood record 3,768 passing yards, while only throwing three interceptions, helping lead the ‘Cats to a state record sixth straight state title and extending the nation’s longest active winning streak to 71

games. “The thing about Edgewood is the pressure is on the entire team and not one individual. I think I took a lot of pressure on myself in the Escambia game,” Rourke said. “In the second half, I put a lot of pressure on myself to repeat the first half, and I think that’s why I struggled. Early on in the season, I put pressure on myself to be perfect in everything. When I lost that pressure, that’s when I really found my groove. “My teammates and coaches were a big part of that. And my mom and dad helping me with trying to fine me mentally. That’s the thing I learned, coach Carr he’s a different coach than I’ve had before. He’s very emotional and I had to get used to that. It made me mentally strong.” For his record-setting season, Rourke credited Carr, that he knew what type of quarterback this year’s team needed. He took notes that first day, but Carr now sees that Rourke already had it all. “He’s a got a lot of knowledge of the game. His football IQ is very high,” Carr said. “That’s the reason he was able to pick up stuff so fast. It was like having another coach on the field. The numbers speak for themselves. “What everybody doesn’t see is the type of person he is. He carries himself well and he comes from a great family. He’s very goal-oriented and I think the sky’s the limit for him.”

ELMORE COUNTY WEEKEND

Georgia Tech hires WHS’s Washington BY CORY DIAZ Sports Editor Tevin Washington accepted an offensive graduate assistant position at Georgia Tech, his collegiate alma mater announced Wednesday via Twitter. The former Wetumpka High standout took over the Yellow Jackets starting quarterback job, under head coach Paul Johnson, midway through the 2010 season, started the next two seasons and earned a spot as a team captain for 2012. Washington’s 38 career

Area coaches pick Bama to win title “I don’t think Clemson’s defenisve line can slow down Derrick Henry and Alabama the whole game. Clemson will scored a few touchdowns with Deshaun Watson at quarterback, a dual threat type guy that Alabama’s struggled with in the past. But I see Bama’s defense forcing Clemson into a lot of third-and-longs, and nobody likes third-and-longs.” Alabama 38, Clemson 24

Lady Wildcats overcome sluggish start, beat Lions BY CORY DIAZ Sports Editor Edgewood Academy held Evangel Christian to two points in the first and fourth quarters en route to a 46-18 victory Thursday night. Both teams started slow offensively, but only EA was able to locate a rhythm. It took 5:30 before junior Kevi Hansen found her team’s first basket of the game, then a 2-2 tie, and after leading 7-2 after 1, the Lady Wildcats’ depth took control. “We felt like with him having such a short bench, that if we could run and get them tired we have better depth, I think that showed,” Edgewood girls basketball coach Kevin Smith said. “We’ve been trying to break it, but we have a habit of slow starts, and it’s gotten us in trouble a couple of games.” From the second period on, EA pressured Evangel’s

young guards to create turnovers and pick up easy chances on offense. With 12 team steals, the Wildcats limited the Lady Lions to 16 points for the remainder of the contest. Hansen paced all scorers with 22 points, along with 13 rebounds. “We were trying to get her more involved in the game, but also, kind of let the game come to her. Sometimes she forces it a little bit much and feels pressure to try to do so much,” Smith said of Hansen. “We put her in positions where we felt like she would get good opportunities, and the girls did a good job of getting her the ball in good scoring positions. Probably the best we’ve done as far as getting her in good spot and finding her and making the most of it. So that’s good to see.” Junior forward Kaylee Glenn and freshman guard C.J. Weldon each added

touchdowns currently rank second in Georgia Tech program history. A three-year starter at quarterback for the Indians, Washington was named First Team AllState at the position in 2007 as a senior. He amassed 67 total touchdowns (42 passing, 25 rushing), while throwing for 5,042 career yards and rushing for 2,097 yards. Washington led Wetumpka to a 10-2 record and the second round of the Class 6A playoffs his senior campaign under then head coach Chad Anderson.

Bobby Carr

“Obviously, Bama’s defense speaks for itself. I think Jake Coker answered a lot of questions the game he had in the semifinal game with Michigan State loading the box. These big games come down to turnovers. I thought Clemson, their big deal last week was the fake punt; momentum will be cheap. Alabama’s favored, but anything can happen. Champs always find a way, and Bama’s proven to be the last ones standing.” Bama 31, Clemson 14

“I think there’s no doubt that Alabama is the best football team between the two. But sometimes the best one doesn’t always win. I think if Alabama can contain their quarterback, I don’t think there’s any doubt they win. In the third and fourth quarter, that’s when Alabama seems to get stronger. Overall, I think they’re the better team that Clemson.” Bama 31, Clemson 17

Edgewood’s freshman point guard Kaitlyn Sampson drives past an Evangel Christian defender during Thursday’s game at EA. Photo by Cory Diaz

six for Edgewood, who improved to 8-5, 1-1 in Class AA, Region 1 play. Holding Evangel to two points twice, especially in the final quarter, was

encouraging for Smith’s young squad. “We do want to be able to win that fourth quarter. It’s good for us and hopefully we can build on that.”

Tim Perry

Hunter Adams

Jeff Foshee

“I hope it’s a down-to-the-wire game. That’s what national championship games are supposed to be, a last play, last possession. Obviously, we have a vested interest for Wetumpka players and the University of Alabama was gracious enough to consider Brandon Kennedy talented enough to play. So we’re going to support Brandon and that program.”