July 14, 2016 Eclectic Observer by Tallapoosa Publishers

ECHS gets new weight room

Beware of online romance scams

Who is considered a good neighbor?

Eclectic Observer Page 4

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THURSDAY • JULY 14, 2016

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

Vol. 27, No. 27

Council hears updates on water system

By COREY ARWOOD Staff Writer

During Monday’s Eclectic town council meeting, members of the Alabama Rural Water Association gave a presentation of findings, fixes and what they plan for future actions with their ongoing inspections into the town’s water systems. The representatives spoke to the council about work they were doing with the water works and sewage and results they found at the beginning of their inspections.

The executive director of ARWA, Cathy Horne, briefly spoke and introduced Donnie Banks, a certified water operator with Water Management Services Inc., who said he had been working with the town’s water and sewage department and its field operations manager James Taylor. Horne said her group had been working with Eclectic since June on what seemed to largely amount to system quality, performance and regulatory compliance issues. Banks said from his preliminary search the system appeared to be well

run, however there were some issues which needed to be addressed. “When we begin to work with a new water system we look for ways to improve on what your system’s already doing and we try to identify potential problem areas and offer possible solutions,” said Banks. He said they checked the system for compliance with the Alabama Department of Environmental Management regulations, as well as safety issues and other deficiencies in its distribution system. Banks mentioned a few of his find-

ings from June. He said they had identified one area of water line that had low chlorine levels and began flushing “upstream and downstream” to determine the cause of the stagnant water. He also mentioned problems with the mapping system the town used, which had what he called incorrect, or missing, “valve” information and needed updating to accurately reflect the placement of these valves. Banks said there were also areas that needed addressing regarding what he called reading the “compound meters” See COUNCIL • Page 5

River and Blues Festival slated for this weekend

Corn Creek Park Road now open

By COREY ARWOOD Staff Writer

Commission also looking into leasing former BOE building By WILLIAM CARROLL Managing Editor

Perhaps the most exciting part of Monday’s Elmore County Commission meeting was what didn’t happen Monday, as torrential rains caused the cancellation of the Corn Creek Park Road access opening ceremony. Members of the Coosa River Paddling Club were present at Monday’s commission meeting to offer their thanks for the completion of the road project. The project ends a lengthy period where there was no direct access to the popular park while the road project was ongoing. The road and park are both now officially open. The commission made quick work of the rest of the night’s agenda: • The commission approved a cooperative mapping agreement with the Alabama Department of Transportation. County Administrator Grace McDuffie said that the DOT uses digital aerial mapping acquired by the county every three years in a shared agreement. • Commissioners approved a proclamation honoring the life of John W. Smoke. Smoke is the late husband of See COMMISSION • Page 3

Today’s

Weather

95 74 High

Low

FRIDAY: HIGH 91 LOW 74

Cliff Williams / The Outlook

Front from left are Lydia Hammond, Kallie Beall and Carolyn Jones. Back Row from left are Moses Torelli and Devin Cappell.

ACADEMIC ACCOLADES CACC students complete Noyce internship at UA

By DAVID GRANGER Staff Writer

Five Central Alabama Community College Students recently completed three-week National Science Foundationsponsored Robert Noyce Internships at the Univeristy of Alabama. Lydia Hammond of Alexander City, Kallie Beall of Jasper, Moses Torelli of Central, South Carolina, and Devin Capell and Carolyn Jones, both of Eclectic, each participated in the program, designed to

increase the number and diversity of graduating teachers certified in chemistry, mathematics and physics. “The CACC students had a fantastic experience living in Tuscaloosa for three weeks,” said Jeremy Carr, a CACC chemisty professor who also serves as the college’s UA Noyce Internship liaison. “From my perspective, several of our students were on the fence about sacrificing three weeks of summer employment to go explore their potential career paths. See INTERNS • Page 3

The annual Wetumpka’s River and Blues Music and Arts Festival is scheduled to be held this Saturday, and will be the fifth year for the Cajun inspired eclectic event full of music, food, art and games. The free event was said to hold two stages worth of entertainment from about six bands and a variety of styles including both crowd favorites and newcomers alike, ranging from the traditional Louisiana sound called zydeco, to classic rock and R&B. The city’s events and tourism manager, Tiffany Robinson, said the events were scheduled to begin around 3 p.m., later than usual, to help with the heat. According to a city press release, there will be a “juried art show” and a children’s dedicated “Kid Zone,” also with art demonstrations, and activities like a mechanical See FESTIVAL • Page 3

Wetumpka Depot actresses talk upcoming play By WILLIAM CARROLL Managing Editor

The Wetumpka Depot Players are bringing a little light-hearted humor to Wetumpka beginning Thursday as they present the Tim Firth comedy “Calendar Girls.” The play is based on the true story of a group of Yorkshire women who produced a nude calendar to raise money for Leukemia research. The play, which will run until July 30, is one of the most widely produced plays in the U.K. “The play is based on a true story of a group of middle aged ladies who posed nude for a calendar,” said Kristy Meanor, Depot executive director. “This show is

such a celebration of courage and love. It will be an absolute joy for audiences to experience. No worry, there is no nudity in the production, but the scene where the ladies pose for the calendar is perhaps one of the funniest scenes I have seen on stage in a long time.” “This heartfelt comedy about love, loss and enduring friendships features a wonderfully, talented cast,’’” said Calendar Girls director Stephen Dubberley. “The cast features Eleanor Davis, Teri Sweeney, Brooke Poague, Hazel Jones, Cindy Smith, Marcella Willis, Gayle Sandlin, Bill Nowell, Lee Bridges, Tatum Pollock, Mariah Reilly, Katie Therkelson, and Jay Russell” See DEPOT • Page 5

Submitted / The Outlook

The ladies of the Tim Firth comedy “Calendar Girls” which opens Thursday at the Wetumpka Depot Players Theatre in downtown Wetumpka.

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THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER

Humane Society prepping for Wags ‘N Whiskers auction By REA CORD Executive Director of Humane Society Elmore County

hew! The 4th of July is an absolutely awesome day of celebration here in the good old USA, but one that shelters rather dread the day after. In this year’s case, it was a very long three-four days of fireworks, owners away from homes and a LOT of lost pets. Hopefully by now most have been reunited with their owners, but if not, and if you have not called your area shelter to report your missing pet, please make sure that is on your ‘to do’ list for tomorrow. To call us about your missing pet in Elmore County please reach us at 334-5673377 Monday-Friday 8-5 and Saturday 8-3. Also check surrounding area shelters as a good Samaritan might have taken your pet to a shelter in another county for many and varied reasons. To reach the Montgomery Humane Society call 334-409-0622 and the Prattville-Autauga Humane Society is at 334-358-2882.

HUMANE SOCIETY OF ELMORE COUNTY NEWS We are thrilled to announce that we now have a new way for our supporters to donate other than via Paypal. We now have links on our website homepage (http://www.elmorehumane. org/) and our Facebook banner so you can donate using your own credit card AND you have many options to tell us about your donation. You can set up recurring donations, donate in memory/honor of a loved one, donate for a specific use, share your donation if you choose and more. You will receive an immediate tax donation receipt and then we will follow-up with our thank you for your support. We are certainly grateful to all of our many supporters and hope this makes donating even eas-

ier for everyone! Only three weeks until our 11th annual Wags ‘N Whiskers Auction on Friday, July 29 at the Wetumpka Civic Center, 212 S. Main Street, Wetumpka. Check out all the items (less any ‘too late to classify”) that will be up for auction at: www.elmorehumane.auction. This is both a silent and live auction and we can pretty well guarantee there will be something for everyone. The doors to the Civic Center will open at 6 pm and be prepared for a long line to get in! DJ Ziggy from PowerSounds USA will be our Master of Ceremonies and you will definitely enjoy heavy hors d’oerves provided by Creek Casino Wetumpka. From 7:15 – 8 p.m., Scott & Michelle Williams, and the crew from High as the Sky Auction Company, will liven everything up during the fast paced live auction portion! Silent Auction bidding will go on throughout and continue until the final whistle. For your planning this is a fun evening that could well last until 9 p.m. bidding wise. Once bidding is over our many auction volunteers will then help

everyone collect their items and complete final payment processing. Besides all the great auction items, there will be super door prizes and chances to win either a huge Alabama or Auburn Football basket chalked full of items! You can pre-purchase tickets ($25 couple/$15 single) at our shelter (255 Central Plank Road, Wetumpka) or at the door. We also have only a couple of tables seating eight for $300 – come to the shelter or call us at 334-567-3377 to pay for your table before they are all gone! And we have plenty of fliers if you would like to help us advertise around the River Region. Our Silent Auction is a definite ‘go to’ event and all of the proceeds raised help us care for the 300+ pets with us during this very busy time of year. You are bound to run into many fellow animal-loving friends while also enjoying an evening of fun bidding, great food and knowing you are supporting a great cause!

HSEC Pet of the Week - Liddy and Phoebe Liddy and Phoebe are two, simply adorable, 12-week-old, female tabby kittens in search of their forever homes. We have many kittens from 9-16 weeks old, a variety of colors and coat lengths and each kitten will just crawl into your heart and lap. Our adoption fees are $100 for dogs & $50 for cats under 1 year old; cats over one year old can be adopted by approved adopters for a fee of their choosing. This adoption fee completely covers the mandatory spay or neuter, basic immunizations,

de-worming, microchip, heartworm check for dogs, rabies vaccination if old enough, and a free health exam with your participating veterinarian. To meet all the great pets at our shelter come to 255 Central Plank Road, Wetumpka, AL, 36092, go to our website at www.elmorehumane.org for more information, email us at hselco@bellsouth.net or give us a call at 334-567-3377. We are open for adoptions Monday–Friday10-5 and Saturday 9-3.

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Commission

continued from page 1

Commissioner Stephanie Daniels Smoke. • Commissioners approved appointing Andy Dunn to act as HAVA machine custodian for upcoming municipal elections. McDuffie requested Dunn act in such capacity to ensure there is no damage to the equipment. • The commission also approved a budget amendment for 2015 and 2016 bond issues. McDuffie said that the amendments were necessary because the current budget was prepared before last year’s October 1 bond issue and an earlier bond was not budgeted at all originally. • Commissioners also voted to approve an amendment to transfer overtime allowance expenditures from

the domestic violence line item into the sheriff’s budget. McDuffie said that last summer there were four officers who received overtime allowance who were assigned to domestic violence, those officers have now transferred to the sheriff’s department and other officers who do not receive an overtime allowance have been designed to domestic violence. • County Engineer Richie Beyer said that there have been developments in the contract negotiations between the county and Adullam House for lease of the old Board of Education Building located downtown. Beyer said the commission should have information to consider regarding the negotiations at the next board meeting.

Festival

continued from page 1

bull, inflatables, and face painting. Robinson said there would be “a little bit of everything” as far as food went at the festival. The event will stretch throughout Gold Star Park downtown, beginning behind City Hall and ending at the Wetumpka City Administrative Building and the Civic Center. Robinson said there would be two stages, with music acts playing simultaneously but the opening act and headliner, she said would begin around 6 p.m. and play to around 10 p.m. on the main stage, behind the civic center. The main act is scheduled to go on roughly around 8:15 p.m., and goes by Rockin Dopsie Jr. and the Zydeco Twisters. The press release calls the performer the “James Brown of Zydeco,” and his band “top notch musicians,” and describes their music as “New Orleans funkiness, with a gumbo of soul, (and) R&B,” with the “best high energy show around.” Robinson said it was on of the bigger events she first had a hand in developing through her time working with the city, starting around 2010. Last year, she said the festival brought in over

$12,000. “It’s a lot of work but at the end of the day it’s worth it,” said Robinson. She said out of all of the city’s events, which she helped orchestrate, Wetumpka’s River and Blues, was “More like my baby” and she said she had watched it grow every year. It was paid for by community businesses, Robinson said, and funded by sponsors. She said the history of the festival stemmed from a similar event in Montgomery called Jubilee City Fest, which she said she worked at for a short time. After it was shut down, a local committee was formed, with the city’s blessing, Robinson said, to create what would become Wetumpka River and Blues. She said she wanted something in Wetumpka that was “good for the whole community” and with the tri-county area. According to the city, in the 2013 Alabama Tourism Guide it was listed as one of the Top Ten Events in July. Robinson said for those that attend to anticipate it being hot, and bring their own coolers, popup tents and lawn chairs.

Interns However, at the end of the internship, literally every one of our students were ecstatic about what they learned, and truly eager to begin their preparation to become teachers. All of them want to return for a second internship year.” The CACC students worked on various research projects over the three weeks. Jones and Capel, both of whom are pursuing chemistry education, contributed to a research project designed to measure the amount of iron in common vitamin tablets. Beall, who wants to be a math educator, studied energy changes in a swinging rod using slow motion video analysis. Hammond and Torelli are pursuing physics and math education and also used slow motion video analysis to study how mass affects the velocity of a falling magnetic object. Other highlights of the internship for the students, Carr said, included visits to UA’s chemistry, automotive, and earthquake research labs, a field trip to Moundville to explore native American life in Alabama 800 years ago, and evening star-gazing at the University of Alabama Observatory. All students were also equipped with a variety of teaching resources including software and brand-new TI Inspire calculators. Most of the interns lived in on-campus dormitories, which helped them build relationships and work on evening projects with other students in attendance. Finally, Carr said the Noyce interns had a rewarding experience contributing to the Summer Enrichment Camp at Matthews Elementary School in Tuscaloosa, where they worked with gifted elementary and middle school students experienced observe and aiding in hands-on

JULY 14, 2016 • PAGE 3

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teaching. Dr. Dennis Sunal, a professor of science education at the University and program coordinator for the UA Royce Internships, urged each of the participants to apply for Royce scholarships, which he said would help fill a growing need for match and science teachers in the state and nation. “I hope that you all continue pursuing your interest in science and math careers with a possible focus on teaching,” Sunal told the group of interns. “Consider applying for the UA-Noyce scholarship; come to UA to get your bachelor’s degree. Scholarships for teachers are available to cover almost all of your costs (so your family doesn’t have to go into debt).” Noyce Scholarships for up to $32,000 ($16,000 per year for the students’ junior and senior years) are available. Noyce, the name-

sake of the internships, founded Intel and is known as the “mayor of silican Valley.” The internships are designed

to increase the number and diversity of graduating teachers certified in chemistry, mathematics and physics.

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Steve Baker, Publisher William Carroll, 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 • JULY 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.

Beware of online romance scams Cities should stay out of candidate policing

ardly a day goes by that I don’t get a message from a random lady telling me that someone is using my photos in online romance scams. These photos are lifted from open sources such as Facebook and then used to create fake profiles on social media and dating sites. Military men are often the photo victim. I’ve tried to laugh about it and sometimes still do. Most of the time, they are so blatantly fake, I can’t fathom how someone could fall for them. I mean, do I look like a guy named “Tope?” Is it possible that I’m the first Captain General in the history of the U.S. military? Is there even a town named Texas City, Alabama? It’s simply ridiculous. Although anyone can be a victim, the scammers target women who seem vulnerable: older, divorced, disabled, etc. There is just about always a sad story on the scammer’s end. Oftentimes, they are widowed with a child, and more times than not, they are deployed to some remote part of the world. Fairly quickly, the scammer “falls in love” with the victim. The scam can last for weeks, even months, until finally, a request for money is made. For many potential victims, that’s when the red flag is raised, but it should never get to that point. With respect to Facebook, there should be a red flag the moment you receive a friend request from someone you don’t know, particularly if there are no mutual friends. Don’t just click on the accept button. Take a look at the profile. If they only have a picture or two and the rest of the information on the page are life events, then it’s most likely a fake. If they only have a handful of friends, it’s most likely a fake. If their relationship status is widowed, that’s a dead giveaway; it’s a fake. If they are in the military, it’s most likely a fake. If you do start chatting with them, be advised, they are very good at what they do. If you are vulnerable, they will exploit

JODY FULLER Guest Columnist

that. If they start telling you how much they love you, it’s most likely a fake. If they won’t Skype with you, then it’s most likely a fake. If they say they can’t Skype, have them record a video saying something you told them to say. If they can’t, don’t, or won’t, it’s a fake. I’m very passionate about this, because I currently have a lady from Mexico harassing me online, because she was scammed out of $1,500 by a “James” Fuller using my photos. She thinks it was actually me. It blows my mind that anyone would send that amount of money to someone they don’t know. Furthermore, it blows my mind that someone would think I’d be dumb enough to use my own photos if I was trying to scam them. Although most of the messages I get are from women in foreign countries, I sometimes get them from Americans, too. I had a show for a church in Troy in January with a victim in the crowd. I think she’d already figured it out before that night, but it freaked her out. Heck, it freaked me out even more. We live in a scary world where we have to remain vigilant at all times. Many people are looking for love in all the wrong places. Be careful who you speak to online. If you don’t know them, don’t talk to them. If you have a loved one involved in an online romance, then I encourage you to get involved and help your loved one before they get hurt emotionally or financially. Lastly, for good measure, stay away from the free dating sites. Jody Fuller is a comic, speaker, writer and soldier.. He can be reached at jody@jodyfuller.com.

Eclectic Observer The

334-567-7811 • Fax 334-567-3284 email: news@thewetumpkaherald.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 # 1536-688X. We reserve the right to refuse to print any advertisement, news story, photograph or any other material submitted to us for any reason or no reason at all. •Obituaries - $.25 per word per paper. Additional $15 charge for a photo per paper. (Herald, Weekend, Observer, Tribune). •Weddings/Engagements - $.25 per word per paper. $15 charge for a 2-column photo. •Birth Announcements - $.25 per word per paper. $15 charge for a photo. SUBSCRIPTION RATES 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. ADMINISTRATION Steve Baker, publisher publisher@thewetumpkaherald.com William Carroll, managing editor william.carroll@thewetumpkaherald.com NEWS Corey Arwood, staff writer corey.arwood@thewetumpkaherald.com Carmen Rodgers, staff writer carmen.rodgers@thewetumpkaherald.com Cory Diaz, sports editor Cory.Diaz@TheWetumpkaHerald.com. . . . . . . Ext. 306 SALES Jayne Carr, marketing consultant Jayne.Carr@TheWetumpkaHerald.com . . . . . . Ext. 313 Molly Brethauer, marketing consultant molly.brethaur@TheWetumpkaHerald.com. . . . . . . . Ext. 305

ecently, I shared an opinion piece regarding the importance of making sure that local candidates actually follow the law and live within the districts and communities they claim to live in. In that piece, I lauded one Tallassee city council member for outlining the importance of following the law. I did not intend for my opinion though to be misconstrued that the city had or should play a role in the legality of candidate qualifications. Recently, the Tallassee City Council has had at least two closed-door executive session meetings, and one vote regarding the ability of candidates to be on the ballot. Also, they even went so far as to ask candidates for “proof” of residency, four of the five mayoral candidates complied. Let’s go through why all of this is very, very bad. First, pursuant to Alabama law, executive sessions are only permitted in very limited circumstances. Section 36-25A-7 says that such sessions may only be held for nine specified reasons. One of those reasons found in subsection 3 states: To discuss with their attorney the legal ramifications of and legal options for pending litigation, controversies not yet being litigated but imminently likely to be litigated or imminently likely to be litigated if the governmental body pursues a proposed course of action, or to meet or confer with a mediator or arbitrator with respect to any litigation or decision concerning matters within the jurisdiction of the governmental body involving another party, group, or body. Prior to voting to convene an executive session under this exception the governmental body shall receive a written opinion or oral declaration reflected in the minutes from an attorney licensed to practice law in Alabama that this exception is applicable to the planned discussion. Such declaration shall not otherwise constitute a waiver of the attorney-client privilege. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if any deliberation begins among the members of the governmental body regarding what action to take relating to pending or threatened litigation based upon the advice of counsel, the executive session shall be concluded and the deliberation shall be conducted in the open portion of the meeting or the deliberation shall cease. This reason appears to be the closest reason used by the city council to support their use of

WILLIAM CARROLL Managing Editor

executive sessions to discuss the matter of candidate qualifications, but it actually does not fit the intent of the statute. This statute is meant to confer the protections of an attorney client privilege nature on the city council and allow council members to discuss sometimes sensitive information with the city’s attorney. For instance, the city officials may wish to discuss certain facts of a case, the open discussion of which could be incriminating, or to discuss facts that do not need to be discussed in public for fear they may create additional legal ramifications for the city. The discussion though of whether candidates running for city offices, specifically the position of mayor, are qualified or not is not one of the discussions that should be conducted in a closed door meeting. When elected officials meet behind closed doors to determine the eligibility of candidates running for position, especially the positions they now hold, it creates the appearance of impropriety and the distinct possibility of corruption. City officials could be plotting to challenge certain “undesirables” or simply those they wish not to challenge them for their positions. While legally there is nothing against a city filing an election contest against a proposed candidate, it is actually a really bad idea in practice and is not an effective use of taxpayer dollars. Generally, individual taxpayers or the candidates themselves should file any legal challenge to a candidate’s qualifications. That is the most effective means of challenging such issues and places the contest in the locale most attuned to resolving the issue, the Alabama court system. The problem with the way Tallassee handled the situation is that municipalities could simply meet and confer about which candidates they wish to contest and which they don’t, perhaps based upon actual altruistic reasons, perhaps for more nefarious ones. Who then polices the policemen? This brings up another troubling issue. At some point, the city council requested that candidates submit

to them proof of residency. Again, it is not up to the city council to ask for such documentation. A recent elections manual produced by the Alabama League of Municipalities for the 2016 elections makes it clear: The receipt and filing of statements of candidacy constitute ministerial acts. The clerk and the mayor have no authority to judge the qualifications of a candidate including residency of the candidate. Their only job is to receive the statements which are properly filled out and see to it that the names of the candidates are properly placed on the ballot. If a question is raised concerning the qualifications of a candidate, a decision thereon should be made by a court. Before leaving the name of a candidate off the ballot after a proper statement of candidacy and the statement of economic interests have been filed, the mayor should have a court order or Attorney General’s Opinion to that effect. The ALM then goes on to site Harris v. McKenzie, a 1997 Alabama Supreme Court case for the idea that courts must decide residency. So, were the members of the Tallassee City Council secretly discussing candidate qualifications in a closed door meeting? If they were they were violating the law. Interestingly, one candidate apparently even provided possible evidence that she might not live in the city limits and yet the council voted to take no action. What then was the point of this entire song and dance? Why waste time even discussing it, especially when technically they have no real authority other than to possibly file a court contest case, which as stated above would be a bad idea? Additionally, the time for filing as a candidate is not complete, perhaps another candidate will file a last minute announcement. What if that occurs? Is that candidate subject to the same policing activity as the others? At this point, the city leaders in Tallassee need to wise up and stay out of the election contest game. If they are that concerned about who is running against them they need to contest those opponents themselves, filing their own actions in court and using their own money. Don’t use taxpayers’ funds to fight your battles for you. William Carroll is the managing editor of The Herald.

Race for White House should be fun to watch

s if we have not been inundated enough with politics this year, hold on to your seats. Over the next few weeks that is all you will hear, read or see. The Republican Convention is set for July 18-22 in Cleveland and the Democratic Convention will begin on July 25 in Philadelphia. After a full year of primaries, caucuses and delegate collecting, the field is finally set for the fall campaign for president. After the July conventions are over, the race is on between Democrat Hillary Clinton and the Republican standard-bearer Donald Trump. Trump has been the story of the year. He vanquished a field of stellar and sterling Republicans. It was quite a quest. He locked up the GOP nomination in May. It took Hillary a little longer to put away socialist Bernie Sanders. In fact, Sanders won more primaries than Clinton and got almost as many votes. The results of the primaries throughout the country reveal that there are two extreme political parties in America. The Democratic Party of Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton is extremely liberal and the Republican Party of Donald Trump and Jeff Sessions is extremely conservative. George Wallace would be hard pressed to run around the country today running for president as a third party candidate spouting his famous line, “There ain’t a dimes worth of difference in the national Republican and Democratic parties,” because there is a vast difference. In fact, they ought to simply change the names of the Republican Party to the Conservative Party and the

STEVE FLOWERS Guest Columnist

Democratic Party to the Liberal Party. There is a good reason we are a reliably red Republican state. We are indeed one of the most conservative states in America. Donald Trump will carry Alabama overwhelmingly in November and we will proudly cast our nine electoral votes for the GOP nominee for the tenth straight presidential election. We have voted for the Republican nominee in every election since 1980. A Democrat has not carried Alabama since Georgian Jimmy Carter in 1976. The race for the White House will be fun to watch. You have a matchup of two brash, blustery New Yorkers. Hillary Clinton, the former First Lady, U.S. Senator from New York and Secretary of State is making history as the first woman to be the nominee of one of the two major political parties. She will also enter the fray as the favorite. The demographic changes in America and the slant of the Electoral College system favors a Democrat in the presidential selection process. However, I contend that Donald Trump, the flamboyant New York billionaire is the best candidate the Republicans could have fielded. His contentious, bold, provocative and uninhibited statements and behavior appeal to nonpartisan independents and blue collar men in the pivotal Rust Belt states of Ohio, Michigan

and Pennsylvania. One thing is for certain, Clinton and Trump have the highest negative ratings of any presidential nominees in polling history. For years political experts have professed that a candidate cannot win an election with a negative approval rating of over 25%. Unbelievably, the polls show that Trump has a negative rating of 60% and Clinton has an unfavorable rating of 54%. That is amazing, yet one of them will be elected President of the United States. Experts say that Trump has to tone down his rhetoric. He must build a campaign infrastructure and he must be more specific with his campaign promises and not just use slogans and code words. Hillary, first of all, needs to warm up some, if possible. She comes across as remote and distant. She must woo and attract young voters. Millennials do not trust her. She also has to fight back when Trump blasts her because, believe me, he will. We are probably in for the most negative presidential campaign in your lifetime. As the campaign evolves, remember national horse-race polls are irrelevant. Under the Electoral College system it is winner take all in each state. Therefore, about six pivotal swing states are the important cogs in the equation. You need to know what the polls are saying in the key battleground states of Ohio and Florida. See you next week. Steve Flowers is Alabama’s leading political columnist. His weekly column appears in over 60 Alabama newspapers. Steve may be reached at www.steveflowers.us.

THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

JULY 14, 2016 • PAGE 5

Depot

continued from page 1

Gayle Sandlin, who plays Marie, the president of the local Women’s Institute said the role was a challenge as the character is very unlike her own personality. “Marie is very concerned about the WI and keeping up appearances,” she said. “She therefore becomes conflicted with other members of the WI who decide to pursue the nude calendar. I hope that most of my personality is not like Marie although in our personal lives we all find ourselves conflicted and often trying to control those around us.” Sandlin said she really enjoys the opportunities community theatre and a play like “Calendar Girls” gives to participants. “What makes community theatre so much fun is taking the words written in the script and weaving a set, lighting and acting into a story that audience members can join in for a few hours,” she said. “Community theatre give you the opportunity to act in a role that is very different from your own personality and making that character come alive on stage.” Cindy Smith, who plays Celia, said that her character is a “little different from the other girls.” “She prefers the ‘finer’ things in life,” Smith said. “She is secretly always trying to out do Chris. I love her spunk, and the fact that when it gets down to it, she may come off as almost overconfident at times, but she has insecurities just like all women do.” Marcella Willis, who plays Ruth, said she feels her character is the one who grows the most during the play from initially insecure to confident. Brooke Poague, who plays Cora, said the role suits her. “I’m playing the role of Cora; vicar’s daughter, young pregnancy, single mother, very dry sense of humor and rather blunt,” Poague said. “You rarely question what’s on Cora’s mind and, for better or

Council

worse, that doesn’t take much acting on my part.” The play is of course based on historical facts Sandlin said she actually learned quite a bit about the women involved. “I watched the movie first since the screenplay was written before the stage play,” Sandlin said. “Additionally, there are BBC interviews with the women of Yorkshire talking about their personal journeys and the making of the film. There is another reunion interview that was very interesting to watch and provided insight into the characters and their journey of raising fund for the new settee in the relative’s room at the hospital.” All four ladies said theater goers will really enjoy the comedy and the interaction of the ladies involved. “The most humorous part of the play, for the cast and I hope the audience, is the calendar shoot,” Poague said. “However, I also hope that the audience will leave contemplating the deeper meaning of the play.” “I believe that theater goers will enjoy this show not only because of its well written humor, but the message it sends,” Smith said. “The friendship these women have with each other is like family.” “In addition to the comedy of the action on stage, I hope the audience will be able to listen to the dialog and hear the stories of all the women in the play and their background and history,” Sandlin said. “They are extremely varied, yet they all come together through the WI to raise the funds for the cancer wing of the hospital. Also, hopefully the audience will learn a little more about the British culture and sense of humor and the bond that has been formed from the women who participate in the Women’s Institute. “ In reference to bonds, the cast has formed quite a bond of its own working on the play. “I am a new comer to the bunch and they (the

other actors) accepted me like I have been there my whole life, right from the beginning,” Willis said. “The cast has become like family; a very diverse and usual family, but family nonetheless,” Poague said. “There is always a camaraderie and bond formed with members of a cast that will always remain,” Sandlin said. “To me, that is one of the most fascinating parts of the community theatre. There is a wide spectrum of people of all ages, backgrounds, personalities, politics and opinions who come together to make the story of the particular production come alive.” The show plays July 14, 15, 21-23, 28-30 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday July 17 and 24 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $12/$15 and can be purchased by calling the box office at 868-1440 or wetumpkadepot.com. The Wetumpka Depot Theatre is located at 300 South Main in historic downtown Wetumpka.

continued from page 1

which he said were being read incorrectly and not recording accurate water usage. From what he described as a “high” and “low flow” gauge, only the “low flow” gauge was being read, he said. As a result, Banks said they made a new form to help in reading the compound meter and more accurately report the usage to Alabama Department of Environment Management. He also mentioned issues with what he described to be the chlorine cylinders, which he said were not secured adequately and needed safety levers in the instance of a leak. Also, the readings on chlorine levels were being conducted with the use of what Banks called a color

wheel, which he said was largely used for swimming pools. He said they had ordered an electronic chlorine meter that would better meet ADEM regulations. And there was a need at the “master meters,” he said, for a measure to check the chlorine levels in the water when it first comes into the town’s water system to ensure its presence at that point. In a secondary report he said the town bought 8,600,000 gallons of water and sold 7,400,000 gallons at a loss percentage of 12.9 percent. Horne said water loss in the state is 15 percent per system, ADEM’s standard, and commended Eclectic on the rate.

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PAGE 6 • JULY 14, 2016

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER

Who is considered a good neighbor?

reetings from the corner of Bridge and Bridge! I do hope the blessings of summer are flowing for everyone in our community. The rumbling waters are welcome this time of year! The parable of the Good Samaritan is one of the best known morality stories in the earthly kingdom. A man encounters Jesus and asks what must be done to inherit eternal life. Jesus tells the man he already knows the answer. Jesus asked the man what was written in religious law. The man responds, “You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your being, with all your strength, and with all your mind, and love your neighbor as yourself.” The man indeed knew the answer. The answer was insuffi-

cient for the man. Having the answer does not always mean knowing what to do with it. The man further questions Jesus, saying, “Who is my neighbor?” Jesus answers the second question with a parable. The common interpretation of the parable is that it provides a definition of “neighbor” on God’s terms. In this sense, the parable explains that everyone is our neighbor according to God. A closer look at the parable reveals a different perspective. Rather than explain who our neighbor is, Jesus uses the parable to explain what it means to be neighborly. Jesus explains what it means to love your neighbor as yourself. In the parable, Jesus explains that a man was traveling from Jerusalem to Jericho. He encountered

REV. JONATHAN YARBORO First Presbyterian

thieves who stripped, robbed and beat him; leaving him to die in a ditch. A priest saw the man in the ditch and moved to the other side of the street. A Levite also saw the man in the ditch and crossed to the other side of the street. A Samaritan passed by, saw the man in the ditch, and had compassion for him. He helped the man up and took him to an inn for care. The Samaritan made an agreement with the innkeeper and paid for the wounded man’s care. The Samaritan is the one

intervened who acted as a neighbor to the wounded man. There is much more to be learned from the parable, however. The labels have powerful meaning in our present reality. The man left to die is an innocent victim. He did nothing to invite or deserve his fate. The priest is someone like me; ordained professional clergy in the church. The Levite represents a lay leader; an Elder or Deacon as we know it in our time. What we find when we pay attention to the labels in the parable is unsettling. The gospel is funny that way. God has a way of stepping on everyone’s toes at the same time. The teaching about what it means to be neighborly is quite a challenge. If we think in the context of national news from last

week, the man in the ditch is a young black man and the Samaritan is an off duty policeman. The beauty of the parable is that the man in the ditch could also be an off duty policeman and the Samaritan a young black man. The parable teaches the lesson that the gospel does not play by the rules and traditions of the earthly kingdom. If any of us seriously wants to inherit the blessings God’s grace makes possible, we must keep the commandments and be neighborly to those dying in the ditch. We know the answer already. Each of us, regardless of situation, must value the lives of others if we want to know peace. Rev. Yarboro is the Pastor of First Presbyterian Church, Wetumpka.

Religion Briefs Episcopal Church of the Epiphany

On Saturday, July 16 from 9 to 11 a.m. Episcopal Church of the Epiphany will host “Beans &amp; Rice.” The Beans &amp; Rice ministry takes place the third Saturday of every month. At that time the Parish Hall is open to those in need of food, who may choose their preferred items from the selection available. On Sunday, July 17 a morning prayer worship service will be held at 10:30 a.m., with coffee hour to follow. For more information, visit the church website: http://epiphanytallassee.org/

Westside Independent Baptist Church

Cowabunga VBS July 11-15 from 6p.m. until 8p.m. All ages, nursery-adult are welcome

St. Vincent de Paul

OUR LIFE’S JOURNEY is a service of St. Vincent de Paul Church and airs weekly from 8:00-8:30 a.m. on 580 WACQ and FM 101.1 in Tallassee. Listen Live on www. wacqradio.com or the TuneIn app on your smartphone. The pastor of St. Vincent de Paul is Monsignor Charles Troncale. July 17 - Apostolic Authority and the Pope July 24 - Marriage and the Eucharist part 1 July 31 - Marriage and the Eucharist part 2 August 7 - Making Catholic Moral Decisions (Jim Toner) August 14 - Making Catholic Moral Decisions (Jim Toner) August 21 - By Faith Alone part 1 August 28 - By Faith Alone part 2 September 4 - Which Came First part 1 September 11 - Which Came First part 2

Westside Independent Baptist Church

One Day Revival, July 17. Dr. Ron Rielly, Evangelist for 36, founder and president of Ambassadors for Christ will be preaching. There will also be special music. This will be an exciting time at Westside Baptist and everyone is invited to join in the celebration.

First Baptist Reeltown

It’s time for Vacation Bible School at First Baptist Church, Reeltown. Come and join us as we take kids on the adventure of a lifetime. We will travel deep into the expansive and wonderful sea - the sea of God’s Word. When submerged, we will discover that Jesus didn’t just see what’s on the outside of people but looked deep down on the inside. So grab your goggles, step into your flippers, and dive in to find truth below the surface! VBS starts Sunday, July 10th and goes through Friday, July 15th. The time each night is 6 - 8 PM. You are always invited to regular services at FBCR. We have Sunday Worship services at 8:30 and 11 a.m.. Sunday School begins at 9:45 with classes for all ages. Wednesday night bible study begins at 6:30 p.m. and also includes a class for everyone. Please join us at FBCR. We are located at 16963 Hwy 49 S, Notasulga - ½ mile north of Reeltown school.

Salem Macon Baptist Church

Will have our 176th Homecoming Anniversary on Sunday July 17, 2016 at 10 a.m. Rev. Marc Pargo, former pastor of SMBC, will be our speaker. Our singers will be Sweet Assurance from Montgomery, AL. A fellowship meal will follow the worship service. Please invite all former members to come and enjoy seeing old friends and relatives. Salem Macon is located at 4647 Tallapoosa Street, Notasulga, Al, 14 miles east of Tallassee and 5 miles west of Notasulga. Rev. Mike Stephens is pastor and Tim Bunn is Music Director.

course MUSIC. Camp hours are: Sunday, July 10, 2-4 p.m., Kick-off party (mandatory) ; Monday-Thursday, July 11-14, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.; Thursday night, July 14, 7 p.m. program. To register, call the church office at 283-2195 or sign up on the bulletin. The cost of camp is $10 per camper, due upon arrival to camp.

Westside Baptist Church

Will celebrate it’s 54th anniversary on July 24. Dr. Robert Keeton, missionary with Rock of Ages Prison Ministry will be preaching in the morning service. Lunch will be served afterwards. There will also be special music. There will be no evening service on July 24.

Mount Olive Baptist Church

Glory be to God! Mt. Olive Baptist Church will be celebrating their 18th pastoral anniversary of Rev. L.D Holstick and First Lady Minister, Twinita Holstick. The celebration will be on July 24 at 2:30 p.m. Mt. Olive members, family and friends come join us as we celebrate this glorious anniversary for our pastor. Our guest speaker will be Rev. Jerry Humpry, pastor of Liberty Hill Baptist Church in Wetumpka, AL. Liberty Hill Baptist Church congregation will also accompany him. We would like for everyone to come worship with joy, love and giving thanks for the man chosen by God to be our shepherd. We are looking forward to seeing all of our brothers and sisters of Christ here to make a joyful noise unto the Lord, and also give thanks to our pastor.

East Tallassee United Methodist Church

First United Methodist Church

Choir Camp—That Joe-he’s so dreamy! The classic Old Testament story of Joseph is retold in the exuberant times and music of the 50s. It’s surfer beats, leather jackets, and surfboards but the gospel truth remains the same… trust the Lord with all your heart. This is a day camp open to anyone in the church or community that is entering first grade through those exiting sixth grade. We will learn an entire musical with narration, choreography, sets and of

The “River’s Edge Flea Market” is open every Saturday from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. All vendors are welcome: new items, old items, crafts, youth groups, ball teams, baked goods, produce and food. The flea market is sponsored by the East Tallassee UMC and is located across from City Hall. We will offer various priced booths. To reserve a space call Joan Wood at 334-312-4913. All proceeds raised by ETUMC will be used for church-sponsored programs.

Area Churches 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 5675754 Crossroads Assembly of God 2534 AL Hwy 14., Millbrook 285-5545 First Assembly of God 3511 Shirley Ln., Millbrook New Home Assembly of God 5620 Caesarville Rd., Wetumpka 5692825 BAPTIST Abraham Baptist Church Millbrook Antioch Baptist Church 1115 Antioch Rd., Titus 567-2917 Beulah Baptist Church 2350 Grier Rd., Wetumpka 514-2881 Blue Ridge Baptist 4471 Jasmine Hill Rd., Wetumpka 5674325 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 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 5691952 Mt. Hebron West Baptist 150 Mt. Hebron Rd., Elmore 567-4441 Mountain View Baptist 1025 Rifle Range Rd., Wetumpka 5674458 New Harmony Baptist 3094 New Harmony Rd., Marbury 3121878 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 210 Central Plank Rd., Wetumpka 567-2589 Victory Baptist 5481 Main St., Millbrook Wadsworth Baptist 2780 Hwy. 143, Deatsville 569-2851 BAPTIST - MISSIONARY Atkins Hill 565 Atkins Rd., Wetumpka 567-1141 Cathmagby Baptist 3074 Mitchell Creek Rd., Wetumpka 567-4787 First Missionary Baptist at Guilfield 412 Company St., Wetumpka 567-7455 Goodhope 1389 Willow Springs Rd. Wetumpka 567-7133 Lebanon 17877 U.S. Hwy. 231, Titus 514-1097 Mount Canaan 1125 Weoka Rd., Wetumpka 567-2141 Mount Pisgah 16621 U.S. Hwy. 231, Titus 567-3668 Mt. Zion 371 AL Hwy. 14, Elmore, 567-2613 Mt. Zion #3 1813 Luke Paschal Rd., Eclectic New Home 5130 Elmore Rd., Wetumpka 567-5966 Second Missionary 760 N. Bridge St., Wetumpka 567-8601 Spring Chapel Jasmine Hill Rd., Wetumpka 567-6493 Sweetwater 163 Michael Lane, Wetumpka 334-5389415 Tabernacle Baptist 1020 W. Tallassee St., Wetumpka 5670620

Providence 4850 Chana Creek Rd., Wetumpka

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

BAPTIST - PRIMITIVE Bethel Old School 4625 Jackson Rd. (C.R. 103), Wetumpka

HOLINESS New Beginnings Holiness 865 Crenshaw Rd., Wetumpka 567-9211

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 5691510 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 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 5670476 Seman Congregational Christian 15970 Central Plank Rd., Seman Union Congregational Christian 8188 Lightwood Rd., Marbury 569-2122

Summit Holiness 2050 Hwy. 14, Millbrook Temple of Deliverance Holiness 620 Alabama St., Wetumpka 514-3114 JEHOVAH’S WITNESS Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses 9235 U.S. Hwy. 231, Wetumpka 567-8100 LATTER DAY SAINTS Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints 1405 Chapel Rd., Wetumpka 567-8339 Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints Cobbs Ford Rd., Millbrook LUTHERAN Christ Lutheran Church 2175 Cobbs Ford Rd., Prattville PRESBYTERIAN First Presbyterian Church 100 W. Bridge St., Wetumpka 567-8135 Millbrook Presbyterian Corner of Main St. & Coosada Rd. Valley View Presbyterian - PCA 4125 Rifle Range Rd. Wetumpka 3862386 SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST First Elmore Seventh Day Adventist 210 Lucky Town Rd., Elmore 514-1020 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 Elmore United Methodist Church 40 Hatchet St., Elmore 567-8653 First United Methodist Church 306 W. Tuskeena St., Wetumpka 5677865 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

THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

JULY 14, 2016 â&#x20AC;˘ PAGE 7

ALL ABOUT PEANUTS Are peanuts one of your favorite foods? Peanuts are not real nuts; they are legumes. Just like peas and beans, peanuts grow in pods. Peanuts are native to South America, but they are now grown in many places around the World. They need a warm climate and time to grow. The peanut plant is a small bush about two feet high with small yellow Ă&#x20AC;RZHUV 7KHLU EUDQFKHV VSUHDG RXW DV WKH\ JURZ :KHQ WKH Ă&#x20AC;RZHUV ZLWKHU DQG GLH DQ XQXVXDO SHJ IRUPV DW WKH EDVH RI WKH Ă&#x20AC;RZHU 7KLV SHJ JURZV LQWR WKH JURXQG DQG WKH peanut pod begins to grow. A peanut actually grows and ripens underground. They are sometimes called groundnuts or earthnuts for this reason. After peanuts are harvested, they are stacked for four-to-six weeks and allowed to cure, or dry out. When a peanut is ready to be used, many different products can be made from them. The most comPRQ RI FRXUVH LV SHDQXW EXWWHU 2WKHU SURGXFWV VXFK DV SHDQXW RLO Ă&#x20AC;RXU DQG VRDSV are also made from them. They can be salted, roasted or eaten plain. In the 1800â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, George Washington Carver, a famous agricultural chemist, found many different uses for the peanut.

DID YOU KNOW THAT IT TAKES OVER 500 PEANUTS TO MAKE ONE JAR OF PEANUT BUTTER?

PEANUT CROSSWORD

WHAT IS A PEANUT ALLERGY? You have probably heard of one of your classmates being allergic to peanuts, but what does it mean? When a person who is allergic comes into contact with peanuts, it can trigger a life-threatening reaction because their body thinks it is an invader. If a person tells you that they canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be around peanuts, ALWAYS remove them right away.

WORD FIND

Hidden Words: Boiled Butter Carver Cure Earthnuts Flour Groundnuts Legume Nuts Oil Peanuts Peg Pod Roasted Salted Soap WHO

WAS GEORGE WASHINGTON CARVER? George Washington Carver was born in Diamond Grove, Missouri, in 1864 as a slave. His mother, Mary, was taken by kidnappers. In 1865, President Lincoln freed all slaves. Moses and Susan Carver had no children so they adopted George and his brother. They taught George how to read and write and realized how intelligent he was! They helped George get an education. He graduated from Iowa State University with a Masters Degree in Agriculture and became a professor. In 1896, Carver moved to Tuskegee, Alabama, to teach at the Tuskegee Institute founded by Booker T. Washington. Carver conducted research on many things, but he was most famous for his studies on the peanut. Often called the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Peanut Man,â&#x20AC;? he found uses of peanuts such as oil, to keep pests away from other FURSV IRU IXHO VRDSV Ă&#x20AC;RXU FORWKLQJ G\HV DQG XVH in plastics. He died on January 5, 1943. George Washington Carver Day is observed each year on January 5.

Across Clues: 3. Some people have an ____ to peanuts. 5. Peanuts grow inside _____. 6. Part of a peanut that grows into the ___. 8. Most popular food made from peanuts. Down Clues: 1. A peanut is a _____. 2. Famous researcher of peanuts. 4. A peanut is sometimes called a ______. 5. Can be eaten roasted, salted, or boiled. 7. Peanuts do this while underground.

Crossword Ans: Across-3) allergy 5)pods 6)peg 8)peanut butter Down1)legume 2) Carver 4)earthnuts 5)peanut 7)ripen

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Faulkner.edu In Cooperation with Central Alabama Community College Call Carol Tarpley at (256) 215-4308 Or email ctarpley@faulkner.edu

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Class-A CDL Local GREAT BENEFITS! And OTR Drivers Health Insurance $9 Weekly

OTR Drivers Home 2 or More Times Weekly

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PAGE 8 • JULY 14, 2016

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THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER

ClassiÄeds

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

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

classiﬁeds@alexcityoutlook.com public.notices@alexcityoutlook.com classiﬁeds@thewetumpkaherald.com public.notices@thewetumpkaherald.com

The Eclectic Observer

The Tallassee Tribune

DIESEL TECHNICIAN NEEDED! Full-time. Must have experience. Great Pay with Beneﬁts.

Please Contact Patterson Truck Parts

256-234-3981

Security Pest Control “The best against pests”

The Wetumpka Herald

THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

Venable serves as Boys State delegate STAFF REPORT TPI Staff

Eclectic’s William Venable was a delegate at the 79th American Legion Alabama Boys State in Tuscaloosa earlier this summer. A rising senior at Elmore County High School, Will is an honor student and plays multiple sports. He is an active leader in his church youth group. At Boys State, he was a resident of City #5 (Barnette), and he was involved in the Medical Interest Group. He attended lectures covering the medical and healthcare fields and toured the University of Alabama’s Sports Medicine facility. American Legion Alabama Boys State is a leadership program for young men who have completed their junior year of high school and are leaders in the their schools and communities. American Legion Alabama Boys State provides delegates with a working knowledge of how governments function on the city, county, and state levels. By teaching youth to understand and appreciate the basic principles involved in the successful management of a democratic society, the American Legion believes we can keep America strong for future generations. Acceptance to Alabama Boys State is a privilege granted by invitation only. Delegates from across the state are selected by their school faculty and community leaders to participate. Selection is based on their demonstration of leadership, hard work, strong morals and motivation. Boys State is a full and active week held on the campus of the University of

Alabama in Tuscaloosa, and is one of the state’s highest honors. At Boys State, students build new Venable friendships, participate in mock government and hear from an array of Alabama leaders. These include congressmen, state elected officials, business leaders, civic leaders, and more. Delegates join interest groups that focus on their individual goals. In these education breakout sessions, delegates not only learn from lectures, but develop skill sets through field trips and handson exercises. Delegates also have activity time during which they can participate in recreation activities such as sports, music, drama, and news media. The American Legion believes there is no better way to assure the survival of our republic than to train our young people in the ideals and objectives of American government. By teaching youth to understand and appreciate the basic principles involved in the successful management of a democratic society, we can keep America strong and ensure freedom for future generations. These are the distinguished, long-standing objectives of American Legion Boys State. Alabama Boys State is directed by retired Judge Pete Johnson of Birmingham. The assistant directors are Judge Joel Laird of Anniston and Ret. Col. Mark Valentine.

JULY 14, 2016 • PAGE 9

Area Calendar July 11 - 15

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL: Grace Baptist Church is hosting vacation Bible school July 11-15 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Registration begins at 5:30 p.m. each night. For more information or to pre-register, call 334-567-3255 or email at wetumpkagrace@gmail.com Grace Baptist Church is located at 304 Old Montgomery Highway behind the Wetumpka McDonalds and Gassett Funeral Home. VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL: Calvary Baptist Wetumpka will be offering Vacation Bible School to children age 3 through 6th grade. The dates are July 11 – July 15 from 6:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The theme this year is “Submerged” – Finding Truth Below the Surface, Psalm 139: 23-24. For more information please contact the church office 334-567-4729 or visit our website www.calvarybaptistwetumpka.org

July 13

GIRLS CLUB: The Eclectic Girls Club will meet July 13 at 10:30 a.m. at the Kountry Kitchen in Eclectic. If you live in Eclectic or surrounding area, you are invited to make new friends, meet old acquaintances, enjoy food and fellowship. Lunch is $10.

July 15

MASTER GARDENER CLASS: The 2016 Elmore County Fall Master Gardener Class will be held at Elmore County Extension Auditorium in Wetumpka each Thursday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. beginning September 1 through November 17. A light lunch will be provided. Applications are available at Elmore County 4-H located at 340 Queen Ann Road, Wetumpka, AL 36092. Those selected for the class will receive an acceptance letter on or around August 17. The fee for the class is $150. The class fee is not due until notification of selection for course. Applications received by Friday, July 15 will receive a $25 discount towards the class fee.

July 19

TUESDAYS WITH KELLY: Tuesdays With Kelly are lunch and learn events at noon on the third Tuesday of each month at The Kelly Fitzpatrick Memorial Gallery 408 South Main Street.

Bring a sack lunch, drinks and desserts provided. Free, Open to the Public, Fun, Music and Door Prizes !!! Tuesday, July 19 is “The Way I See It” with Priscilla Crommelin Ball and Lt. Colonel Quentin C. Crommelin, Jr., children of the late Priscilla Crommelin. DANCE CLASSES: Dance Generation registers now for fall classes. Registration at Tallassee Studio July 19 4:30 p.m. -6:30 p.m. For more information call Shawn at 334-283-2201.

July 31

BACK TO SCHOOL: Calvary Baptist Wetumpka will be hosting our Annual “Back -2- School Bash on July 31 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. For more information on this event, please contact the church office 334-567-4729 or visit our website www.calvarybaptistwetumpka.org

August 13

Beulah Baptist Church will hold the Annual Teachers Luncheon on August 13 at 1:00p.m. In order to honor the Reeltown School Teachers and Aides and some other teachers from surrounding school systems.

August 26-27

The Tallassee High School Class of 1981 is planning its class reunion, to be held August 26 and 27 in Tallassee. If you are a member of the class and have not been contacted by a classmate, please call Suzy Solomon Wilson at 334283- 8172. ONGOING EVENTS POOL SEASON: The Tallassee Pool season for 2016 will end Saturday, July 30. Hours of operation will be Monday-Saturday from 1pm-5pm. Daily pass is $3 per day and individual pass is $45, family pass for up to 4 in same household is $60 and 5 or more $75 for season. First session of swim lessons for ages 4 and up (must be 4 by time of lesson) will begin June 13-June 24, Second session will be June 27 –July 8 (closed July 4) Third session will be July 11-22. Registration fee for Tiny Tots is $55 and Levels 1-6 will be $65.

You may register at Recreation Department until Thursday, May 26 and after May 26 please register at pool. WATER AEROBICS: Water Aerobics classes will go thru July 28th. Classes will be each Tuesday and Thursday night at 7:00 pm at the City Pool. No need to register... just pay $3 each day you exercise. Lap swimming will also be available during that time if you do not want to participate in the aerobic class. SWIM LESSONS: First session of swim lessons for ages 4 and up (must be 4 by time of lesson) will run through June 24. Second session will be June 27 –July 8 (closed July 4) Third session will be July 11-22. Registration fee for Tiny Tots is $55 and Levels 1-6 will be $65. You may register at Recreation Department until Thursday, May 26 and after May 26 please register at pool. CHILD FIND: The Tallassee City School System is launching its annual campaign to assist children—birth to age 21—who have disabilities and may need special services. The campaign urges parents, service providers, and concerned citizens to contact Child Find, a program to locate, identify and evaluate children with disabilities or children who are believed to have disabilities. The Tallassee City School System wishes to notify you of the availability of special education services in our public schools. If you have questions regarding our programs, or if you wish to refer a student, please contact Lynell Carr at (334) 283-5675 or Child Find (Alabama Department of Education) at 1-800-548-2547.” ART EXHIBITION: There is a free exhibit of sixty-five works of art by the late Priscilla Crommelin featuring vibrant still life and floral paintings, portraits and landscapes at the Kelly Fitzpatrick Memorial Gallery Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Kelly Fitzpatrick Memorial Gallery. TENNIS LESSONS: Grassroots Tennis Association will be offering (8) Weeks of Free Tennis Lessons this Summer throughout the rural and inner city underprivileged communities. A player can become a recipient of Free Tennis Lessons by contacting this organization before (May 27th, 2016) by calling (334439-8198).

PAGE 10 • JULY 14, 2016

SPORTS TheWetumpkaHerald.com

Visit our sister website: TallasseeTribune.com

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THE ‘WEIGHT’ IS OVER

Cory Diaz / The Observer

Elmore County High School set up their new weight room Monday. The new equipment and racks, valued at roughly $75,000, were used for the first time Tuesday. Pictured left, some junior varsity football players hit the weights Wednesday. Right, eighth-grader Sam Bartlett shoulders one of the new bars to squat Wednesday.

New weight room lifts motivation in ECHS athletes By CORY DIAZ Sports Editor

Elmore County High student-athletes’ wait to break in their new weight room ended this week. Monday morning, the new equipment by Total Strength and Speed, totaling around $75,000, was delivered to campus. Coaches put together everything, and on Tuesday morning, varsity Panther football players got their first taste of their new, customized weight room. “It’s a lot nicer than I thought; I know it was going to be nice, but it’s super nice,” rising senior quarterback Will Venable said Wednesday morning. “It’s good to finally be able to get in there, put some

work in there. I’ve enjoyed it these first two days we’ve gotten to go in there.” ECHS’s new setup features a long strip of artificial turf, a new sound system and close to 10,000 pounds of plates for six double-sided racks that will allow up to 60 athletes to work out simultaneously. “This will really change what we can get done,” Elmore County High strength and conditioning coach Daniel Carpenter said. “Total Strength did a fantastic job designing what we wanted. It’s quality equipment; I don’t know if we have to ever replace this stuff.” The school’s “EC” logo can be found on all of the tsunami weight bars, benches and leg workout machines and “Elmore County” and “Panthers” are alternated on the racks.

AWF to present top conservation award STAFF REPORT TPI Staff

The Alabama Wildlife Federation will present this year’s Alabama Wildlife Federation Governor’s Conservation Achievement Awards at a formal banquet, beginning at 6 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 5, at the Marriott Legends at Capitol Hill in Prattville. The AWF Governor’s Conservation Achievement Awards, considered the most prestigious conservation honors in the state of Alabama, promote leadership by example and in turn increase conservation of our natural resources including our wildlife, forests, land, water and air. Over the past 40 years, Alabama Wildlife Federation has presented these awards to individuals and organizations that make great contributions to the conservation of Alabama’s wildlife and related natural resources. This year’s award recipients are: Conservationist of the Year - Dr. David Thrasher, Montgomery; Wildlife Conservationist of the Year - Luis de Hechavarria, Orrville;

Fisheries Conservationist of the Year - Chris Blankenship, Mobile; Forest Conservationist of the Year Jimmy Bullock, Birmingham; Land Conservationist of the Year - Blythe Cotton Company, Town Creek; Water Conservationist of the Year - Dr. Pat O’Neil, Tuscaloosa; Air Conservationist of the Year - GeorgiaPacific, Naheola Mill; Conservation Educator of the Year - Doyle Keasal, Auburn; Conservation Communicator of the Year - James “Big Daddy” Lawler, Camden; Conservation Enforcement Officer of the Year Officer Greg Gilliland, Munford; Legislative Conservationist of the Year – U.S. Sen. Richard Shelby, Tuscaloosa; Judicial Conservationist of the Year - Judge Jim Main, Montgomery; and Hunter Safety Instructor of the Year - Mike O’Neal, Guntersville. For more information about the awards and recipients, visit www. alabamawildlife.org. Tickets to the banquet are $40 and are available for purchase by contacting AWF at 1-800822-9453.

“Creates more energy,” rising senior offensive lineman Ryan Rush said. “When you walk in there, this is what we worked for. You get a little pumped when you go in there. Brand new racks, brand new weights. We’ve got different equipment in there, more space, which is a good thing because we got kind of clustered (in the old weight room). “It’s definitely an upgrade from the last gym. We’ve come a long way, done a lot of fundraisers, raised a lot of money and I’m really glad we got this especially with it being my senior year. I can get in there, put some work in and show these other younger guys. And they show the younger guys below them.” Senior defensive end Jakobi Bickley said the new weight room will help him

and his teammates seek out an opportunity to play on the next level. “I’ll need to put in work because I’m trying to go to the next level and have an opportunity at the next level,” Bickley said. “It’s great. We’re going to have to put in work, on the field and in the weight room. We’re going to see how it turns out.” With the new equipment and setup, Venable said he hopes the newness will motivate the Panthers this summer, going into fall camp and football season. “I hope it motivates us a little more, an incentive to come. You know, we got a new weight room, let’s go in there and make the most of it,” he said. “Hopefully that translates to the field and we do our best.”

Elmore County High QB club offers season ticket packages By CORY DIAZ Sports Editor

With kickoff to the 2016 Elmore County High School football season a little over a month away, fans and supporters looking for reserved seats to all Panther home games still have a chance to reserve them. The ECHS Quarterback Club is selling reserved season-ticket packages for $50, which includes one ticket to all five Panther homes games at a discounted admission rate and one parking pass (valued at $10) in the preferred parking lot behind the home side stands that has easy entrance/ exit access to the bleachers. There is a limit, so reserved spaces are firstcome, first-serve. All reserved seats are directly in front of the pressbox near midfield. Desired location of the seats are on a first-come, first-served basis. Back for the second straight season

is the $25 concession stand combo package, which contains a meal at all five home games. Fans will have the choice between a hamburger or a hot dog, fries and a drink (valued at $6, separately). The Club would like to have all reservations in before Elmore County’s first home game, the season-opener on Aug. 19 versus Montgomery Academy. For more information about reserved seating, contact Renae Venable at (334) 541-2131.

ADCNR says wildlife rescues not required STAFF REPORT TPI Staff

The more time you spend outdoors, the more likely you are to eventually encounter a wild animal that appears to be in need of rescue. If you discover wildlife that seems to be in need, the first thing to remember is that, despite appearances, this is very rarely the case. Many mammals leave their young alone for the majority of the day, and fledgling birds are on the ground for a period of time being fed by their parents before they take flight. This means that a young, uninjured bird or mammal is not in need of rescuing. The best thing to do in these instances is to leave the animal where it was found. If it has already been moved from its point of origin, it is still OK to return the youngster to its capture site, even hours later. The notion that a mother will reject babies after being touched by humans is a myth. Many people make the mistake of monitoring the baby animal to see if mama returns. If you can see the area, this means that the parent can also see you, and will not return

because of your proximity. Leave the area and keep in mind that some species are only visited by their mother twice in a 24-hour period. This is normal, and not cause for alarm. If you discover injured wildlife and feel the need to assist the animal, it is important to be aware of the legal and practical issues involved in “rescuing” wildlife. Native wildlife cannot be held in captivity, even for the purposes of medical assistance, without proper permits. There are licensed wildlife rehabilitators throughout Alabama, and these individuals and facilities have the experience and enclosures necessary to tend to and house convalescing wildlife. Wounded and ailing animals must be transported as quickly as possible to those with a permit, and may not be kept in the care of the finder or even a local veterinary clinic which lacks a Wildlife Rehabilitation Permit. A truly injured animal (hit by car, etc.) may be a candidate for transport to a licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator. Leaving nature to her natural cycles of birth, growth and renewal is an appropriate way to appreciate wildlife. Allowing the natural parents of a young animal to care for

Submitted / The Observer

The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources issued a reminder that many wildlife are not in need of rescuing.

their offspring is the best way to ensure its healthy development and avoid the violations and fines sometimes associated with unlawfully possessing native wildlife. If you find a fawn, rabbit or other species alone in the woods, remember that they are right where they belong. Leave them as you found them.