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ECSO: Wetumpka man sexually abused child By AMALIA KORTRIGHT Staff Writer
A Wetumpka man was recently booked into the Elmore County Jail after he allegedly subjected an underage victim to sexual contact. According to Elmore County Sheriff Bill Franklin, Elmore
Strength
Herald editor dies at 58 STAFF REPORT TPI Staff
Wetumpka Herald Managing Editor David Granger, 58, died Tuesday afternoon following a stroke he had nearly two weeks ago. Granger started working for Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. when he was hired as a staff writer at The Alexander City Outlook in January 2015. In December 2016, Granger took the position of managing editor for TPI’s Elmore County newspapers overseeing Granger The Wetumpka Herald, The Eclectic Observer and The Tallassee Tribune. Granger is from Opp and had been living in Equality with his wife Lynn Holley Maynard Granger for many years. He graduated from Elmore County High School in Eclectic and earned a bachelor of arts in journalism in 1984 from Auburn University. Throughout his multi-decade journalistic career, Granger earned several awards from the Alabama Press Association and Alabama Sports Writers Association. In the APA’s 2018 Better Newspaper Contest, Granger was awarded third place for his column, “Holidays bring fireworks… to my kidneys!” in the Best Humorous Column category. He also earned second place in Best Editorial Column or Commentary for “Facebook killing sparks quests for answers.” Granger was a big sports fan and a large space of his heart was dedicated to the Atlanta Braves and Auburn Tigers. TPI staff members are sad to lose a piece of their work family and said Granger will be missed but always remembered for his talent and humor.
County Sheriff’s Office deputies arrested Michael Wayne Strength, 31, at his residence in the Redland community on Wednesday, July 18. Franklin said Strength was formally charged with sexual abuse of a child under the age of 12. On July 20, Franklin said Strength was charged with one
count of rape in the first degree, one count of sodomy in the first degree, one count of sexual abuse in the first degree and two counts of enticing a minor. Earlier that week, Franklin said authorities had received a report of the abuse from the victim’s family. Franklin said the abuse is believed
HITTING THE STAGE Cletus
Dog killed by boater on Lake Martin Story spreads on social media; grand jury to decide charges, if any, for suspect By AMALIA KORTRIGHT Staff Writer Amalia Kortright / The Herald
Characters from ‘Hands on a Hardbody’ reflect on how the competition to win a truck changed their lives during the show’s closing number, ‘Keep Your Hands on It’ at Friday’s musical.
Wetumpka Depot Players present ‘Hands on a Hardbody’ By AMALIA KORTRIGHT Staff Writer
T
he Wetumpka Depot Players production of the musical “Hands on a Hardbody” hit the stage at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, July 19, and will run until Aug. 4. Stage manager Hannah Meherg said the first night drew a crowd that filled about 75 percent of the theater, and higher turnouts are expected throughout the show’s run. “We had a really strong opening night. I
think people were surprised that the musical wasn’t just hilarious, but it was also very poignant and there were some touching moments,” director Kristy Meanor said. “This is a show that the audience could make a connection with. This is about everyday people with everyday struggles, and it was written so that the audience starts to care about each character.” “Hands on a Hardbody” centers around a diverse set of people who have entered a See MUSICAL • Page A3
By AMALIA KORTRIGHT Staff Writer
Craft beer tents and vendors lined the Coosa River from the Coosa River Craft House to Coaches Corner during Wetumpka’s inaugural Coosapalooza Brewfest from 2 to 10 p.m. on Saturday. Visitors were able to sample a variety of craft beer from different breweries while walking along the river and listening to live music. “It’s a unique event for the city, our See BREWFEST • Page A5
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The Wetumpka Police Department is currently investigating a burglary that took place at the Humane Society of Elmore County at around 2 a.m. on Monday. Three white male suspects wearing masks, hoods and gloves, climbed fences on the Humane Society’s property, and See BURGLARY • Page A3
Amalia Kortright / The Herald
Chuck Lofton and Kurt McKinney perform for a crowd of onlookers in the afternoon at the city’s first Coosapalooza Brewfest.
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The death of a dog, which police say was killed by a boater near Goat Island on Lake Martin, has gained widespread attention because of provocative Facebook posts. But, Elmore County Sheriff Department officials said a man accused via social media of having killed the dog was not involved in any way. A two-year-old boxer named Cletus was swimming in the lake this past weekend when he was killed by a See DOG • Page A3
Police investigating burglary at local humane shelter
Wetumpka’s first Coosapalooza Brewfest draws a crowd
Today’s
to have been happening over the course of several years, and started before the victim had turned 12. Franklin said the victim told authorities the abuse had increased over time. Franklin said the victim said it began as “playful touching,” and had escalated to bondage and See STRENGTH • Page A2
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PAGE A2 • JULY 25, 2018
Obituaries Perry Wayne Harris Perry Wayne Harris, a resident of Wetumpka, Alabama, passed away on July 14, 2018 at the age of 77. Mr. Harris was born on August 8, 1941 in Rosinton, Alabama to Allie and Daisy Harris. He was preceded in death by his wife of 52 years, Virginia Corine Harris. They were married on August 8, 1964 after meeting on the Stapleton Baptist Church steps on July 16, 1961. He is survived by his children, Tonya Simonton (Jim) of Wetumpka and Shawn Harris (Shannon) of Seattle, WA; grandchildren, Aaron Simonton, Clay Simonton, Rachel Harris, and Matthew Harris, and his sister, Gwen Vickers. He was especially proud of his service in the US Navy. He enlisted at the age of 17 and finished his career as a Chief Petty Officer and retired in 1976. He and Virginia returned to south Alabama and later moved to Wetumpka. He worked for multiple companies as a small engine mechanic. He continued to tinker with engines and anything else that needed repairs for the remainder of his life. He was an avid gardener and prided himself of his peppers and tomatoes, which he grew for other people to enjoy. Wayne enjoyed his friends and family and spent many lunch times at the Senior Center in Wetumpka. In recent years, he had the opportunity to travel a bit more. He toured the National Parks in Colorado, Utah, and Arizona with his son and was able to finally see the Grand Canyon. He and his daughter were “rambling” partners and enjoyed many days just riding around, talking, shopping, and eating lunch. He liked to joke that you never knew where they would end up. Wayne’s grandchildren were his heart. He was so proud of each of them and their accomplishments and potential. They have been positively influenced by the character, strength, love, and sense of humor of a wonderful Granddaddy and they will miss him very much. Their memories are priceless. His son-in-law and daughter-in-law were blessings to him. He loved them and considered them his own. He considered Taylor Young and Karleagh Taylor to already be a part of his family. He cherished his dear friend, Marjorie Mallard. He will be missed by Cat Balou, Jack, and Charlie. The family will receive friends at his visitation at Gassett Funeral Home, Wednesday, July 18, from 6:00 to 8:00 in the evening. His funeral is scheduled for Thursday, July 19, at 1:30 in the afternoon at Alabama State Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Spanish Fort. Online Guest Book available at www.gassettfuneralhome.net
Strength
continued from page A1
strangulation. Franklin said deputies discovered incriminating evidence during a search of Strength’s residence. Because of the “extreme nature” of the crime, as well as Strength’s close proximity to the victim, Franklin said Strength was booked into jail on a $150,000 bond. The additional charges Strength received after his arrest increased his bond to $300,000.
TheWetumpkaHerald.com
THE WETUMPKA HERALD
WPD addresses suicide among police officers By AMALIA KORTRIGHT Staff Writer
Wetumpka Police Department Chaplain John Gallups said 140 police officers nationwide died as the result of suicide in 2017. Because of the stigma surrounding suicide, Gallups said he suspects that number could be higher. “More officers died from suicide than they did in the line of duty (that year),” Gallups said. “In 2016, we had a little bit of a drop in it. We thought the trend was going down, but then it jumped right back up. “The thing is, it depends on how it’s reported. A lot of departments didn’t report it as a suicide because of the stigma to it and things like that. With the 140 officers who committed suicide in 2017, that’s 140 too many.” So far, Gallups said no officers employed with WPD have died by suicide. However, in 2013, Gallups said one former officer who moved out of town lost her life to suicide several months after she left the WPD. “There were times it bothered me, simply because she was one of us. She was basically my sister in blue,” Sgt. Ella Roberts said. “With the things that happened, it was a stressful situation.” While many people view suicide as a selfish act or believe it happens as the result of a mental illness, Gallups said he disagrees. “Suicide is a painful act,” he said. “Whatever they’re going through in their life, they feel like this is the ultimate decision or the only decision that they have. How long does it take? It literally takes the blink of an eye to take your own life. If you’ve ever been stressed out and you feel like there is no other answer and you have a gun to your head and you pull the trigger, it’s the snap of a finger. You can’t
Amalia Kortright / The Herald
WPD Chaplain John Gallups said an estimated 50 percent of police officers nationwide have thoughts of suicide at one point or another. While no WPD officers have died as the result of suicide, Gallups encouraged locals to be supportive, appreciative and compassionate of local officers.
take that back.” Gallups said he is one of the 50 percent of police officers who are estimated to have, at one point, had suicidal thoughts. Gallups said he had come as close to holding a gun to his head before his life turned around, and credited his survival to God. “I was in a lot of pain, but God told me something different. The spirit said, ‘What are you doing?’ I put my gun back in my holster, and I’m here today because God had a better plan for me, because I didn’t make that split-second decision of a wrong choice,” Gallups said. “We have choices in life. God just controls the outcomes of those choices. There are probably more people who have been in that situation and thought about it, but that’s why I understand it, because I’ve been there.” Far too often before it happens, Gallups said no one sees the signs. Because of that, Gallups said he makes a point of speaking to officers regularly about job-related stress.
“The Bible says that you can’t serve two masters,” he said. “You’ll either hate one or love the other. Police officers try to serve three every day. I call it walking the dog. Police officers walk three large dogs every day of their career. They walk the department dog, they walk the street dog and they walk the family dog.” According to Gallups, one of the largest stressors is the media’s portrayal of police. “The accumulation of stress in people’s lives sometimes causes them to have a negative outlook on life,” Gallups said. “When you look at media, you will find that most people are against cops. I doubt that’s really true in reality, but telling people that people support law enforcement doesn’t sell papers.” Gallups said the WPD, among other departments throughout the state, is relying on chaplains and peer support programs to help officers manage their stress. “It’s all in the ability to handle the stress of the
job and getting officers an avenue to where they can talk about their stress and trust the people they’re talking to,” Gallups said. Recently, Gallups started the One to One program, which pairs people to local first responders. As part of the program, first responders are prayed for daily and receive monthly notes of encouragement from their partner. “Knowing there is someone else out there that prays for me on and off the job is a big help,” Roberts said. However, Gallups said he would much rather see locals praying and supporting officers of their own accord. Gallups said civilians can also help by being positive and thankful for the officers who work to keep the community safe every day. “Encourage and discourage have one word in common: courage. What’s wrong with going and buying a dollar card and sending it to a department, saying, ‘Hey, thank you for your service?’” Gallups said.
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JULY 25, 2018 • Page A3
Burglary
continued from page A1
passing boater. Before Cletus died, Elmore County Sheriff Bill Franklin said the family had been trying to alert the boater that the dog was in the water. A friend of the family claims the boater intentionally hit the animal. Franklin said a report was filed by Cletus’ owner and, after an investigation, deputies were able to identify the driver of the boat. Initially, Franklin said the ECSO had planned to arrest the boater on a felony charge that was later reduced to a misdemeanor charge by the Elmore County District Attorney’s Office that said the crime fell under the misdemeanor statute under the Alabama Code of Law. Because the boater would not have been charged with a felony, Franklin said the dog’s owner refused to sign the warrant for the boater’s arrest. “Me and (the owner) had a very good, healthy, wholesome conversation,” Franklin said. “I understand where he’s coming from. If it were my dog, I’d be upset.” Franklin said the ECSO is not in charge of prosecuting suspects and does not have control over what types of warrants are issued. “We are the fact finders. We investigate the crimes and we bring those facts to the DA’s office for them to prosecute in a court of law,” Franklin said. Franklin said he is asking the District Attorney’s office to present a case to an Elmore County Grand Jury during its next session in October. The grand jury will then decide what charge, if any, will be filed and whether that charge will be a felony or a misdemeanor. The social media posts have wrongfully accused one man of being the boat driver, Franklin said. “That particular gentleman has nothing to do with nothing. He doesn’t know what’s going on,” Franklin said.
continued from page A1
damaged gates, back doors and the office’s glass window before they took the keys to the organization’s vehicles, according to Humane Society Executive Director Rea Cord. The suspects climbed over another gate and climbed into the shelter’s red Dodge truck and Ford F-150 and drove away. Cord said, from reviewing the surveillance footage taken during the incident, she believes this is not the first time they have committed a theft. “I doubt this was their first rodeo at stealing things,” Cord said. “They need to be caught and put in jail, in my opinion. It hurts. You’ve got people stealing from a non-profit.” Cord said none of the animals were harmed during the burglary, but the humane society’s office cat Fred is still “shook up.” Both vehicles were recovered near Narrow Lane Road in Montgomery by the Montgomery Police Department at about 7:47 p.m. on Monday night,
A red Dodge pickup truck, along with a Ford F150, were stolen from the Humane Society of Elmore County in early morning hours Monday. Both vehicles were later recovered in Montgomery. Submitted / The Herald
according to Central Alabama Crime Stoppers. WPD Detective Clarence said neither of the vehicles were damaged and no suspects were found in or near the vehicles. Cord thanked Reid, along with other WPD and MPD officers who helped recover the vehicles. She also thanked staff members who traveled with her to Montgomery to retrieve the truck.
Reid said two suspects were later arrested by the MPD on unrelated charges. The third suspect, however, has not been taken into custody. Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact the WPD at 334-567-5321 or Central Alabama Crime Stoppers at 215-STOP or online at 215STOP.com. According to Crime Stoppers, tips may lead to a cash reward.
Musical
continued from page A1
contest to win a “hardbody” truck from a car dealership in Longview, Texas. The truck is awarded to the contestant who keeps a hand on the truck the longest. Meanor said the titular “hardbody” was shipped to the Wetumpka Depot Players building in four parts and reassembled on stage. Both Meanor and actor Michael Armstrong, who plays the role of Greg, said staging a two-hour musical with a truck came with a unique set of challenges. “Whenever you’re doing shows, you usually have an open stage,” Armstrong said. “But having a big Nissan hardbody on stage makes it a lot different.” Meherg said the play afforded new opportunities to members of the Wetumpka Depot Players, including 15-year-old Erynn Gilbert who served as assistant stage manager for the first time. Previously, Gilbert said she has worked as a crew member behind the scenes. “It was really different from what I normally do. It’s really cool to see the different aspects that go into building a show,” Gilbert said. Meherg said it is rare to have a cast work together as harmoniously as this one has.
“This has been a really easy cast to stage manage. Everyone has been so professional, and they’re so talented and helpful to each other,” Meherg said. Cheryl Jones, who plays the role of Janis, said she hails from Longview, and several other cast members also came from Texas, which adds a layer of familiarity to the setting of the show. “All of us Texas folks have kept saying Texan things all throughout rehearsal,” Jones said. Through the show, she said she had the opportunity to connect with cast member Kim Mason, who she used to see perform when she attended shows at the Granbury Opera House in Texas. “We had mutual friends in the theater world, but we hadn’t met until the show,” Jones said. Armstrong said he has worked with the Wetumpka Depot Players in the past, and decided to audition after he was approached by Meanor. After he was cast, Armstrong said he was able to gain a variety of new friends and learned some new skills. “The process has been amazing. We’ve all grown super-duper close,” Armstrong said. “The dialect was super hard, because I’m not used to speaking southern.” Armstrong said he especially
appreciates the show’s message, which he cited from the show’s last number: “If you love something, keep your hands on it.” Actor Lindsey Justus, who plays the role of Heather, said she was decided to audition after she listened to the soundtrack of the Broadway version and “fell in love with the music.” She said some of her favorite “Hands on a Hardbody” songs include “Alone With Me” and “I’m Gone.” “I’m from Ohio, and I know the feeling of getting away from home,” Justus said. Justus said this is the first time she has performed with the Wetumpka Depot Players, and she enjoyed the experience. “Everyone here is so supportive and encouraging and wonderful to work with. I’m so honored to be surrounded by all these brilliant people,” Justus said. “This is probably one of the most exciting shows I’ve had the privilege of getting to know.” “Hands on a Hardbody” tickets cost $12 in advance and $15 at the door and online at www.wetumpkadepot.com. For more information about “Hands on a Hardbody,” or to make reservations, visit the depot’s website or call 334-8681440.
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Opinion
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#Resist: We don’t know, but... H ow many times have #Resist (Trump) folks’ heads exploded over something President Trump said or did, or over the unconventional way he said or did something? And yet, millions have not died as predicted, the world is not on the precipice of a nuclear war, and America’s economy continues to improve. Nevertheless, Democrats, national media outlets, and all forms of the #Resist movement continue to be the most potent agitators of instability, uncouth epithets, and advocates of violence in America today. We all agree Trump is an unconventional president. Americans are divided over how Trump’s words and actions are interpreted, because those on the left (including #Resist Republicans) can only speculate meanings, saying, “We don’t know, but….” CLUE: When anyone begins to report or analyze news with “We don’t know, but…” all that follows is opinionated speculation. Consider news from NATO in context with Trump’s predecessors. Both Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama asked NATO nations to increase their defense spending, but defense spending in NATO remained flat. President Trump exhorted NATO nations to increase defense spending, and 15 NATO nations raised their defense spending with promises from all to raise their spending to at least 2-percent of GDP by 2024. That’s results on the international stage!
DANIEL L. GARDNER Columnist
How have #Resist interpreted this accomplishment? “President Trump offended all of our NATO allies! We’re all doomed!” President Trump misspoke at a news conference following a summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin. If #Resist reactions are any indications, this is the only time any American president has ever misspoken. Associated Press reporter Jonathan Lemire asked, “Just now, President Putin denied having anything to do with the election interference in 2016. Every U.S. intelligence agency has concluded that Russia did … who do you believe?” Part of President Trump’s reply: “My people came to me, Dan Coates came to me and some others, they said they think it’s Russia. I have President Putin; he just said it’s not Russia. I will say this: I don’t see any reason why it would be. But I really do want to see the server.” Please note that no one in America’s intelligence community has examined any of the hacked servers. Crowdstrike, a private cybersecurity contractor with ties to the Clinton campaign, is the only group reported to have examined any of the servers. Later, Trump tried to clarify his remarks by saying,
“The sentence should have been...’I don’t see any reason why it wouldn’t be Russia.’” #Resist folks have questioned Trump’s clarification, and speculated about what Trump and Putin discussed in their one-on-one meeting. “We don’t know, but….” Confounding the #Resist camp even more, Trump invited Putin to the White House this fall. Heads have been exploding ever since this news broke! “We have undeniable proof Russia meddled in the 2016 election! And, Trump invites our adversary, Putin, to the White House! We’re all doomed!” CLUE: Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev supported John F. Kennedy in the 1960 election and “meddled” in that election. Russia, China, North Korea, Iran, and other nations have meddled in American elections for decades. America meddles in other nation’s elections. President Obama meddled in Israel’s elections, among other meddling, reportedly with taxpayers’ money! As a former businessman, Trump calls our allies ‘partners.’ He calls our adversaries ‘competitors.” He deals with each as such, contrary to conventional American political rhetoric and protocol. Why are #Resist heads exploding? “We don’t know, but….”
Daniel L. Gardner is a syndicated columnist who lives in Starkville, Mississippi. You may contact him at PJandMe2@gmail.com or interact with him at www. clarionledger.com
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, 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 (includes Wednesday) 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. © 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@thewetumpkaherald.com NEWS Amalia Kortright, staff writer amalia.kortright@shelbycountyreporter.com Carmen Rodgers, staff writer carmen.rodgers@thewetumpkaherald.com SPORTS Caleb Turrentine, sports writer caleb.turrentine@thewetumpkaherald.com SALES Marilyn Hawkins, marketing consultant marilyn.hawkins@TheWetumpkaHerald.com Ext. 309
Letter to the Editor
Does state parole board have a conscious? Dear Editor, We learn of outrageous violent crimes anywhere we are revolted. But when it happens in our hometown and its horror is unspeakable, one realizes it isn’t something that takes place in a far off place, but right at home. Last Friday, July 13, Marie Kitchens, 74, her great-grandson Colton Lee, 7, and her neighbor Martha Reliford, 65, were brutally murdered by a homeless man in a robbery attempt in Guntersville, Alabama. The killer, Jimmy Oneal Spencer, 52, has a long violent criminal history. He was serving a life sentence in an Alabama prison until January of this year when he was released by the Alabama Pardons and Parole Board. Spencer was a native of Franklin County, Alabama — across the state from Guntersville — where he had lived since his release.
Franklin County District Attorney Joey Rushing issued a terse emotional statement upon Spencer’s recent arrest expressing frustration on his failure to convince the AP&PB to deny his release. Rushing emphasized his anger to area media that despite having been sentenced to life, Spencer has now murdered three people including a child. Early release practices by the pardons and parole board has been under scrutiny for a decade with the current case being typical of gross mistakes in judgment. So, where does the accountability lie? Is it people who are appointed through the political appointment systems that is nothing more than politicians “taking care of their cronies” with lengthy high paying positions. While victims, prosecutors and even judges can and do protest and oppose the release of violent criminals, they are, nonetheless, powerless to
stop the board’s decisions. Somehow, this system just does not jive with our judicial system. When a jury decides the guilt of an offender, a judge passes sentence, the appeals court reviews the case and agrees, why should a handful of bureaucratic good old boys in Montgomery overrule and invalidate that procedure? Especially when it leads to the multiple deaths of innocent people? Please keep in mind that while these deaths are devastating to the relatives, these crimes are against ALL the citizens of Alabama as well. One has to wonder how members of the Pardons & Parole Board feel about the deaths of Martha Reliford, Marie Kitchens and her great grandson Colton Lee. Does the word conscious come to mind? James W. Anderson Talladega
THE WETUMPKA HERALD
TheWetumpkaHerald.com
JULY 25, 2018 • Page A5
District governor promotes polio awareness By AMALIA KORTRIGHT Staff Writer
Normally, District Governor Sam Adams’ attire would not be appropriate for a Rotary club meeting. But to those present at the Wetumpka Rotary Club meeting at the Wind Creek Casino and Hotel last Tuesday, it sent a message. Adams showed up to the meeting wearing a T-shirt bearing the words “End Polio Now,� running shorts and a blazer. “We’ve been working on this for 40 years; it’s a long time,� Adams said. “Flash back 40 years, did you know that 350,000 people a year got polio? You say, ‘That wouldn’t happen to me.’ How many of you have had the flu? It’s the same thing. You catch (polio). It’s a communicable disease.� In the hour before the meeting started, Adams had already run two miles through the city in an effort to raise awareness of polio. “I started from here (at the casino) and got on Google Maps and determined that the bridge downtown is about a mile,� he said. “I actually ran over the bridge, came back and looked (like I was) in pretty bad shape, but I made it. It was a good run.� Adams said the disease has left a longlasting effect on many of its victims. He cited several notable people, including
Amalia Kortright / The Herald
District Governor Sam Adams speaks about the importance of ending polio at a July 17 Wetumpka Rotary Club meeting. Prior to the meeting, Adams ran two miles through the city to raise awareness.
“MASH� actor Alan Alda, director Francis Ford Coppola and golfer Jack Nicklaus who contracted polio and survived. “These names most of y’all know, but think of the thousands of people you don’t know who were impacted negatively by this horrendous disease. It spread all over the place,� Adams said. “A lot of these
guys who were involved with polio, none of us know them. We barely remember them, and we barely know what polio is, but it does make a difference. It’s about these unsung heroes.� While many people believe Jonas Salk was largely responsible for curing polio, Adams said the injectable vaccine
he developed was only about 33 percent effective. Adams referred to Salk’s colleague and rival Albert Saban, who developed an orally ingested vaccine, as the true inspiration. “It became 100 percent effective in combating the polio virus. Once that was discovered, it transformed the whole battle of polio,� Adams said. Adams said Saban began spreading his vaccine internationally, starting with the Eastern Bloc countries and then moving it to the United States and Cuba. “He didn’t make a dime off of it. He said, ‘I’m a doctor. I’m a researcher. I want to help humanity.’ He didn’t take a patent on it, and therefore, it became accessible all around the world,� Adams said. “To me, that’s an inspiration when you sacrifice your own personal benefit to help other people.� Since then, Adams said Rotary clubs from all over, alongside the Gates Foundation, have taken up the gauntlet to fight polio. In this day and age, Adams said only about a dozen cases of polio are reported per year, and they mainly take place in third world countries plagued by conflict, like Pakistan and Afghanistan. “Rotarians have been killed in trying to administer this immunization. It’s not easy, but we’re going to break through,� Adams said.
Brewfest
continued from page A1
people are so excited to bring this event to Wetumpka,� Main Street Wetumpka President Dennis Fain said. The event’s lineup included Ben Norris; Chuck Lofton and Kurt McKinney; Allen, Steve and Caryl and Jeff and the Johnsons. According to Fain, the event served to raise funds for Main Street Wetumpka’s efforts to revitalize the city’s downtown area. Fain said it was also a replacement for the Wetumpka River and Blues Music and Arts Festival, which had been an annual event in the past but did not take place this year. Fain Coosa River Craft House owner John Stewart originally came up with the idea for Brewfest. Fain said the Coosapalooza Brewfest
was a joint effort between Main Street Wetumpka, the city and Coosa River Craft House owner John Stewart, who initially came up with the idea for the event. “He approached the city, and since Main Street Wetumpka is working to revitalize downtown, the city suggested we get involved,� Fain said. Fain said one of the main goals of Coosapalooza Brewfest was to draw more people to Wetumpka, especially those in the younger generations. “One of the demographics we hadn’t reached yet is the millennial crowd, and millennials like to drink craft beer,� Fain said. Coosa River Craft House co-owner and John Stewart’s wife, Paige Stewart, referred to
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Amalia Kortright / The Herald
Visitors pose for a photo as they line up to sample beer from the different vendors at the beginning of the city’s first Coosapalooza Brewfest.
Coosapalooza Brewfest as “much needed and much wanted,� and
said, despite the threat of severe weather that day, the event yielded an
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impressive turnout. “For it to be as busy as it is, I think it’s going to get busier as the day progresses,� Paige Stewart said about an hour after it started. “I think this brings a lot of diverse people. It’s not just young drinkers. It’s craft beer fans of all ages, and I think it introduces people to the craft beer craze.� Titus residents Susan and Mike Junkin said they came out to support the city of Wetumpka and sample the beer. Mike Junkin echoed Paige Stewart’s sentiments that Coosapalooza Brewfest has been needed for a long time. “I’ve been here since 1978, and it’s always been Montgomery, then Prattville, then Wetumpka has
always been third in development. Wetumpka is too beautiful to not share it,� Mike Junkin said. “It keeps the smalltown look and feel,� Susan Junkin said. “That’s very important.� Ryan and Tabby West, who are currently residing in Fort Deposit and move every three months for his job, said they decided to come after seeing Coosapalooza Brewfest advertised online and said it was a good opportunity for them to get out and explore a new place. “I just like walking around with my wife. I know it’s cheesy, but I love places like this,� Ryan West said. “It’s good to see new things and try new stuff. It makes life fun.�
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Highway 231 walking bridge reopens By AMALIA KORTRIGHT Staff Writer
A wooden, 300-foot pedestrian bridge located on U.S. Highway 231, north of Fort Toulouse Road, officially reopened to the public on Friday, July 13. According to Wetumpka City Clerk Tiffany Robinson, the bridge had been closed since early February, after it was severely damaged during a fatal car accident. Public Works Director Tex Grier said about half of the bridge was destroyed during the incident. Grier said it had been repaired to meet its original specifications, and Robinson said repairs were covered by insurance. Before the bridge was closed, Robinson said she saw many people walking and fishing on it each day. “I’ve seen quite a bit of social media buzz on people being excited that they can now walk all the way to Fort Toulouse again and not have to worry about traffic,” Robinson said. “We like to be a walkable community.” According to Robinson, the bridge is one of several that allow residents to walk across town along the Coosa River. Robinson said the path taken regularly by many people will not only be enhanced by the bridge’s reopening, but also by the addition of a new bridge. “We’re actually in the process of building another bridge on the other side of Bibb Graves, so you’ll actually be able to walk from Fort Toulouse Road, all the way down past (city hall), cross the bridge and walk all the way to the sports complex,” Robinson said. “You’ll pretty much be able to walk from one side of the city to another.” Grier and Robinson said the city’s pedestrian bridges have provided an important avenue for physical activity in Wetumpka, and provide easy
Amalia Kortright / The Herald
Pedestrians in Wetumpka now have access to the walking bridge on U.S. Highway 231 that had been shut down for almost five months. Public Works Director Tex Grier said half of the bridge was destroyed, and has been rebuilt to the original bridge’s specifications.
access to different parts of the city for some. “I think it’s good for the walkers. The people that are exercising and using the gyms, they are doing a lot of walking from Fort Toulouse into town at present,” Grier said.
“We want all of our parks and everything to be accessible, so it’s avenues like these bridges that make it accessible for people that live in West Wetumpka or any parts of Wetumpka,” Robinson said.
Man charged with sex crimes at local motel By AMALIA KORTRIGHT Staff Writer
A 59-year-old Chapman man was charged with first-degree rape, first-degree kidnapping and sexual torture. Willie Olen Daniels, who lists an address on Butler County Road 11, was arrested by the Wetumpka Police
Department at Motel 231 on July 9. According to WPD Chief Greg Benton, the victim had rented a room at the motel prior to the July 9 incident from which Daniels’ charges stem. Benton said Daniels held the victim against her will in a different room and
Daniels
assaulted her. She escaped from the room and ran across the street to the Superior Gas Inc. station, where the clerk called 911. “(If) you see something like that and you hear that story, you call 911,” Benton said. All three charges are considered Class A felonies.
If convicted, Daniels could face up to life in prison and owe a maximum fine of $60,000. As of July 19, Daniels remained at the Elmore County Jail on a cashonly bond of $60,000. Daniels’ case was assigned to Elmore County District Court Judge James Glenn Goggans, and the date for a preliminary hearing has not been set.
Eclectic man charged with incest investigation to the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences for analysis. A warrant for Smith’s arrest was issued shortly after the results came in. “The findings supported the case of incest,” Lowery said. According to court documents, the victim is a juvenile related to Smith by either blood or marriage. Incest is a Class C felony. If convicted, Smith could face up to a decade in prison. As of July 19, Smith remained in the Elmore County Jail on a $150,000 bond. Smith’s initial appearance at the Elmore County Courthouse was scheduled for 10 a.m. on July 11. As of July 19, the date for a preliminary hearing had not been scheduled.
By AMALIA KORTRIGHT Staff Writer
A 41-year-old Eclectic man was charged recently with felony incest after a lengthy investigation. Ricky Winston Smith Jr., who lists an address on Lindsey Smith Road, was arrested by the Elmore County Sheriff’s Office on July 9. ECSO Chief Ricky Lowery said an initial report against Smith was filed in April and authorities investigated it for several weeks before sending evidence gathered from the
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Vicki Bonner Ward and Frank Bertarelli talk to a visitor about Leadership Elmore County at a community expo in Wetumpka earlier this year. According to LEC Chair Jennifer Glover, applications for the Leadership Elmore County Class of 2019 are due by Aug. 1 and between 10 and 20 people are accepted each year.
LEC taking applications for Class of 2019 By AMALIA KORTRIGHT Staff Writer
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Elmore County residents, along with those who are interested in learning more about the community, are invited to apply for the Leadership Elmore County Class of 2019. According to LEC Chair Jenifer Glover, applications are due by Aug. 1, and between 10 and 20 people are accepted each year. “We are looking for people who are involved in their community, or people who want to become involved in the community or people who want to develop their leadership skills,” Glover said. “This is open to anybody in any position.” Glover said involvement in Leadership Elmore County begins in September with an
overnight retreat and ends in May with a graduation ceremony. In between, Glover said, are monthly classes that touch on different aspects that go into building and maintaining the community. “We visit each of the communities in Elmore County to see what goes into them,” Glover said. While tuition costs $450, Glover said it is typically paid by each member’s place of employment. Scholarships are available for small business owners or those who are paying the tuition out of pocket. During the application process, Glover said all submissions are reviewed and phone interviews are conducted to see who would be a good fit for the class and has time to participate.
Perhaps one of the most important benefits of LEC, Glover said, is how members are able to delve into what it means to be a leader. “One of the things we do within the program is a positive leadership curriculum, where we explore different aspects of leadership and its applications in our day-to-day lives,” Glover said. In past years, Glover said LEC classes have consisted of a wide variety of people. For the 2019 class, Glover said the LEC Board is looking for younger members of the community. Those who do not live in Elmore County are also welcome to apply. Glover encouraged anyone interested in LEC to reach out to her by sending an email to info@leadershipelmorecounty. com
THE WETUMPKA HERALD
TheWetumpkaHerald.com
CommunityCalendar Wednesday July 25
• Noah’s Ark Adventure VBS program at Redland Road Church of Christ located at 2480 Redland Road Wetumpka from 7 to 8:30 p.m. The classes are for all ages. Saturday July 28 • The Orsi Family Remembrance Balloon Release will be at the Wetumpka Sports Complex ballfields on Highway 14 July 28 at 10 a.m. This is a time for our entire community to come together in remembrance of the Orsi family and the many memories we have shared. Please bring any type of balloon you would like to release. For more information contact Kacie Williamson 334-530-9878. • Noah’s Ark Adventure VBS program at Redland Road Church of Christ located at 2480 Redland Road Wetumpka from 7 to 8:30 p.m. The classes are for all ages.
Friday, July 27
• Central Alabama Chapter Dinner & Live Auction will be hosted by Alabama Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation July 27 from 6 to 10 p.m. The event will be at the Wetumpka Civic Center located at 410 South Main Street in Wetumpka. It is the “do-not-miss” social event of the year with a chance to win top-notch firearms, premium hunts and exclusive RMEF merchandise. Guests will experience the kind of camaraderie and sense of purpose and accomplishment that keeps most attendees coming back year after year. Best of all, you will have a great time while supporting a cause that’s close to the hearts of hunters, their families and the future of great outdoors. • Wags & Whiskers Auction will be July 27 from 6 to 10 p.m. at 100 River Oaks Drive in Wetumpka. You are invited to join us at our 13th annual auction. There will be hundreds of items up for auction (both silent and live), great food door prizes and more. All the proceeds go to the humane shelter to help ensure we can continue our work and be there to help all the pets brought to us in need of our help. The fun, the food (cash bar as well) and bidding begins at 6 p.m. when we open the Entertainment Center doors.
Saturday, July 28
• Come join us for a “fun”raiser to benefit Felecia Brown at the Red Hill Community Center (Old Red Hill Schoolhouse) located at 3554 Red Hill Road from 4 to 9 p.m. There will be a spaghetti dinner, homemade cake auction, bingo prizes and music provided by David Stough, Philip Carter and Wild Country. The fundraiser is to benefit Brown, a single mother who has been successfully treated for throat cancer. For more information, please call Jennifer Bennett at 334-324-1895.
Tuesday, July 31
• Heather Layne will be at Grace Point Community Church at 78223 Tallassee Highway in Wetumpka. There will be a free concert and this event is open to the public with dinner to be served at 5:45 p.m. The concert is hosted by Celebrate Recovery. Layne is a recording artist and published songwriter. Her voice and songs can be heard on Christian and country music radio.
Saturday, August 4
• Santuck Flea Market and Plank Road Market are in Santuck from 5 a.m. 3 p.m. on the first Saturday of each month.
Sunday, August 5
• The Wall Street African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Zion Church will celebrate 138 years of ministry at the church located at 71 Zion Street in Tallassee at 2:30 p.m. We are grateful to God that he has sustained us and allowed us to preach teach and inspire members of the Wall Street Community and abroad down through the years. A program is being prepared to commemorate this joyous occasion. Our guest minister for the occasion is Reverend George E McKain Director of Bureau for the A.M. E. Zion Church. You are cordially invited to join us for the celebration. Dinner will be served after the program.
Saturday, August 11
• A Writer Workshop, located at The Wetumpka Library at 212 South Main Street in Wetumpka, will be August 11 from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Friends of the Wetumpka Library present “Summer Somethin’ Getting Into Character: How to
JULY 25, 2018 • PAGE A7
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Develop Your People and Get Them Into Print” by local fiction and nonfiction author Linda Alexander for three Saturdays in August.
Monday, August 13
• Come Join The Eclectic Girl Scouts Troop No. 9192 at Eclectic United Methodist Church located at 1035 Main Street in Eclectic from 6 to 7 p.m. The event will be hosted by Catherine Rutherford Fulmer and Randelle Branson Luster. Is your daughter interested in becoming a Girl Scout? If so join us for our new parent and registration meeting.
Ongoing events
Rent an historical location for your celebration from the Red Hill Historical Preservation Association, Inc. It rents out the almost 100 year old Red Hill School building for your special occasions. Take your wedding vows or have the reception in the auditorium where Hank Williams performed! Have your family reunion where many of you might have attended school. Contact Paula Castleberry at 334541-2474 or email her at mcasby53@ windstream.net. • The Wetumpka Public Library hosts preschool activities and Story Time every Tuesday and Friday morning at 10 a.m. • The Kelly Fitzpatrick Memorial Gallery is located at 408 South Main St. in downtown Wetumpka and will be open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and by appointment. On the third Tuesday of each month, a “lunch & learn” event called Tuesday with Kelly will be held at noon. To schedule a tour call Cookie at 334.567.0050. For more information, visit thekelly.org or friend us on Facebook. • The Eclectic Public Library hosts activities at 2 p.m. every Tuesday and 10:30 a.m. every Saturday for area children. The programs are free and include stories, rhymes, dress up, dance and music. • Santuck Flea Market operates from daylight until 2 p.m. on the first Saturday of each month from March until December. The location is 7300 Central Plank Road, Wetumpka. • The Elmore County Branch #5026 of the NAACP meets at 6:30 p.m. every third
Tuesday (the executive committee) and every fourth Tuesday (full membership) at the Martin Luther King Center located at 200 N. Lancaster St. in Wetumpka. • The DAC Foundation exhibit located at 219 Hill St. in downtown Wetumpka will be open each Monday and Wednesday from 10:00 am until 12:00 pm. and by appointment. To schedule an appointment call 334-513-1086. For more information, visit DixieArtColony.org or us on Facebook. • Celebrate Recovery meets at Grace Point Community Church, located at 78223 Tallassee Highway, every Tuesday night at 6:15 p.m. All are welcome! These meetings are a safe and loving environment for individuals seeking to conquer their hurts, habits, and hang-ups! For more information visit gracepoint.info. • Celebrate Recovery meets at Journey Church, located at 2960 East Cobbs Ford Road every Monday at 5:30 p.m. There is a meal and childcare provided. Celebrate Recovery is a Christ-centered 12-step for anyone struggling with addiction or life-challenging issues. Call Larry at (334) 832-5714 or visit myjourneychurch.com for more information. • Celebrate Recovery meets each Thursday evening at 6:15 p.m. at Santuck Baptist Church, located at 7250 Central Plank Road. This is a Christ centered 12 step program for anyone struggling with hurts, habits, and hang-ups. Call (334) 567-2364 for more information. • Fresh Start Recovery meets every Thursday from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. at First United Methodist Church Wetumpka located at 306 W. Tuskeena St. Fresh Start Motorcycle Ministry began when God laid it on the heart of a lifetime biker to minister to those with his background. All are welcome, not a requirement to own/ ride a motorcycle. Format used is the Holy Bible. For information contact ministry leader Paul Henderson at (334) 201-5428. • Gamblers Anonymous meets Saturdays at 6 p.m. at Cedarwood Community Church, located at 10286 U.S. Highway 231 in the Wallsboro/ Wetumpka community. Call (334) 567-0476 for more information.
Winslett, new Eclectic Town Council member, takes oath of office By AMALIA KORTRIGHT Staff Writer
A new member of the Eclectic Town Council was sworn in during a regularly scheduled council meeting July 16. Eclectic resident Carmen Winslett took her oath of office to serve in place three of the city council.
Nathan Collins, Mayor Gary Robert Newman, Davenport Josh Pack said she is and Stephanie replacing Stepney. During former council the previous member Joe council meeting Creamer, who on June 18, recently moved Davenport said outside of the they chose her town limits. after a unanimous Winslett Winslett vote. was selected Davenport said out of five Winslett was selected candidates, including
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because of her extensive involvement with the Eclectic Public Library and the Alabama Cotton Festival Committee, as well as because of her efforts to re-open the town’s trade day events. “The council felt that, because of her volunteerism, she
would make a good councilperson,” Davenport said. As of July 19, multiple messages seeking comment from Winslett have not been returned. The council also passed a resolution concerning the locations
where food trucks are allowed to conduct business; approved a $500 appropriation from the city to the Butterfly Bridge Children’s Advocacy Center; approved a project grant to install lights at the Aaron Park baseball field.
PAGE A8 • JULY 25, 2018
TheWetumpkaHerald.com
THE WETUMPKA HERALD
The Lord’s Prayer to our Father
I
n my last column, I wrote that the Lord asks us to call Him Abba, Father – or, in our modern times, Daddy. When we come to pray we need to stand before God as our caring, loving Father — Daddy. We need to let it sink deep to our hearts and minds — Our Daddy cares for us, our Daddy knows our needs. Our Daddy loves us! The first line of the Lord’s Prayer says, “Our Father, who art in Heaven, hallowed be thy name.” The first thing we need to do when we come before our Father is not to ask. The prayer says, “hallowed be thy name” — give Him praise and adoration, saying “Daddy, I love you!” It cannot be just as a dry beginning, but an expression of love. Take your time to express your love: “I want your
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Name to be praised everywhere Daddy, I love you Daddy.” The next line of the Lord’s Prayer says, “Thy Kingdom come, Thy Will be done, on Earth as it is in Heaven.” Before I ask for what is important for me, I want to ask for Your kingdom. For You! That’s the most important thing. Daddy I want you. Daddy I want to be in your holy presence. In our own daily lives, we often begin with the next line: “give us this day our daily bread.” In fact, by the time we reach that point in the Lord’s Prayer, we have spoken to the Father as Child-Father (“Our Father, who art in Heaven”); I love you Daddy (“hallowed be thy Name”), I want only you Daddy (“thy kingdom come”), I’m accepting your will Daddy because I know it is best (“thy will be done on Earth as it is in Heaven”).
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These are not casual statements. Why would Jesus put these words in the Bible if they talk about something very obvious – that God’s home is in Heaven? I would like us to see more behind it, more that really addresses our lives and is meant to bring us onto right path of relationship with God. Heaven is where God is present. God is Heaven. Seeing Him face to face and adoring Him – this will be our beatific vision. It will be our Heaven, for all eternity. Heaven is present where God is present. And Jesus said that where two or three of you
gather in My Name there I am. We are invited to not only desire Heaven but bring it here. In many ways, Heaven begins, in very imperfect ways, here on Earth. We are good at raising hell. We are good in making others suffer, and being in pain ourselves. We are great at doing what is not good, or even what is evil. We are completely lost when it is about doing good. Heaven begins here and now. Jesus calls it God’s Kingdom. God’s reign. The Heavenly Kingdom, the Kingdom of Heaven. And this heaven is all about sharing God’s Love, compassion, mercy, and forgiveness with others. There is a story about cat who falls asleep. When he wakes up, under his favorite tree, there is dense fog around him. He thinks that he is in Heaven. And so he goes to
God 1076 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic 5412006 Bethel Worship Center 11117 U.S. Hwy 231., Wetumpka 567-5754 Crossroads Assembly of God 2534 AL Hwy 14., Millbrook 2855545 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 5142881 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 5675191 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 1554 Hwy. 143, Millbrook 285-0094 Grace Baptist Old Montgomery Hwy., Wetumpka 567-3255 Grandview Pines Baptist 346 Deatsville Hwy., Millbrook 2855125
R Kim Rev. Webb, Pastor
8000 Titus Road Titus, AL
Ric R c Rickey Luster, Mu M Music Director
Sunday Services at 11a.m. ___
Sunday Sc Sunday Schoo School.........10:45 hool a.m. Morning a.m. g Worship........9:30 p Children’s Church......9:30 C Chi hiildr ld en’ n’ss Chur C hurrch. ch. h ... .....9 ..99:30 :3 a.m. Tuesday Bible Study.........Noon Tu T ueesd u day B ibl blle Stud b dy.. y..... .. ....Noon on n
Minister Dr. John Brannon
There is Harmony at Harmony United Methodist Church!
You Will Receive a Warm Welcome at This Friendly, Christ-centered Church. NURSERY PROVIDED FOR ALL SERVICES
*Please Join Us*
205 W. Bridge Street • Wetumpka, AL (334) 567-5191 SUNDAY WEDNESDAY Sunday School...................8:45 am Fellowship Meal...............5:00 pm Kids’ Activities.................6:00 pm Worship Service..............10:00 am Youth Worship..................6:00 pm Evening Worship..............5:00 pm Prayer & Bible Study.......6:15 pm Visit us at fbcwetumpka.com
SANTUCK BAPTIST CHURCH
504 West Osceola Street 334-567-4729
7250 Central Plank Road “A Family of Families”
••••
Rev. Anthony Rhodes, Senior Pastor Sarah Swedenburg, Worship Ministries
B.R. Johnson, Senior Pastor Larry Gore, Adm. & Counseling Randy Godfrey, Education Matt Fallin, Worship
Derek Blankenship, Student Ministries
SUNDAY SERVICES Sunday School...........9:30 a.m. Morning Worship.....10:30 a.m. Small Group...............5:00 p.m. WEDNESDAY SERVICES Prayer Meeting...........6:00 p.m. Student Worship........6:00 p.m. Calvary Kids...............6:00 p.m.
F rst
Cedarwood Community Church 10286 U.S. Hwy. 231 Wallsboro, AL (334) 567-0476 www.worshipcedarwood.org
© UNITED METHODIST
www.firstwetumpka.com
SUNDAY
WEDNESDAY
8:15 AM..........................Chapel 9:20 AM.............Sunday School
3:00 PM............Children/Youth Program (Bus Pickup) 5:15 PM.........................Supper 5:45 PM........Youth Bible Study 6:00 PM....Adult Choir Practice 6:15 PM.........Adult Bible Study
10:30 AM..................Sanctuary 12 Noon.........Hispanic Service 5:30-7:00 PM....Youth Program
Green Ridge Baptist 288 Turner Rd., Wetumpka 5672486 Harvest Baptist 2990 Main St., Millbrook Hillside Baptist 405 Old Montgomery Hwy., Wetumpka Holtville Riverside Baptist 7121 Holtville Rd., Wetumpka 5145922 Lake Elam Baptist 4060 Gober Rd., Millbrook Liberty Hill Baptist 61 Crenshaw Rd., Wetumpka 5678750 Lighthouse Baptist 2281 Main St., Millbrook Living Water Baptist 1745 Grass Farm Rd.
ARMONY H United Methodist Church
11066 U.S. 231 • Wallsboro
Matt Albritton, Pastor
Father Mateusz Rudzik is a regular faith columnist for Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc.
Area Churches
Wallsboro United Methodist Church
WETUMPKA
check it out. He passes kids playing on the playground, and birds singing beautifully from the trees. He comes to meet a familiar looking always angry dog from the neighborhood. And as usual, this dog barks at him very loudly. Normally this little cat would run away. This time, however, he pauses for a moment and thinks: I’m in Heaven. What should I do? And so he goes to the dog and gives him a big hug, which leaves the dog speechless. And he continues his journey. Who are the angry barking and hostile dogs in your life? What would be Heaven’s worthy reaction? What could I change to make the Heavenly Kingdom more visible, to bring even the smallest piece of Heaven down on Earth?
306 W. Tuskeena Street •(334) 567-7865
Sunday Bible Study...9:00 AM Sunday Worship......10:00 AM We are a Congregational Christian Church which, in the name of Jesus, invites all to worship with us.
Nursery ____
Check out our Facebook page
SUNDAY Sunday School........9 & 10:30 a.m. Worship...................9 & 10:30 a.m. Evening Celebration...........5 p.m.
www.centeringlives.com
WEDNESDAY/FAMILY NIGHT Programs for every age 6:15 - 7:30 p.m.
1025 RiÀe Range Road • Wetumpka 334.567.4458 www.mvbaptistchurch.info
Dr. Tim Thompson - Pastor Angie Gallups - Worship Leader Sunday Morning Worship............10:30 Sunday School..................9:15 Evening Worship..............6:00 AWANA (Aug.-May).......5:25 Wednesday Activities 6:00 Adults......Prayer and Message Youth/College......Bible Study Children’s..........GA’s & RA’s
Spring & Fall Soccer Seasons K4-6th Grade
Send your church news and happenings to: news@TheWetumpkaHerald.com ____________
Call Marilyn Hawkins 334.567.7811 to advertise your church’s services in this space
29
DAYS UNTIL FOOTBALL TheWetumpkaHerald.com
Sports The
Herald
Visit our sister website: TallasseeTribune.com JULY 25, 2018 • PAGE B1
RACING PRODIGY
McLing returns to national motocross championship By LIZI ARBOGAST Sports Editor
When Wetumpka’s Michael McLing was only 7 years old, he found his first true love. At a friend’s house, McLing rode his first dirt bike and immediately wanted one of his own. Fast forward just six years, and McLing, now 13, has honed his craft to near perfection, qualifying for his second AMA National Motocross Championship in his young career. “It feels even better than it did the first time,” McLing said. “When I qualified before, I was on a smaller bike, so now that I’m on a bigger bike, it feels good to know I qualified again.” In order to get to the national championship — which begins Monday at the Loretta Lynn Ranch and Campground in Hurricane Mills, Tennessee — McLing had to race his way through the area qualifying race, where the top eight advance, then the regional qualifying race. From seven regionals, the top six advance to the national championships. Forty-two racers from several different age groups qualify, and McLing qualified for nationals in both the 12-13 and the 12-14 age range. When McLing earned a spot at the national championship in 2016, he had a stellar ninth-place finish in the 10-11 age group and 14th in 9-11.
“It feels even better than it did the first time... This year my goal is top 10.” — Michael McLing Wetumpka native who qualified for AMA National Motocross Championship
“This year, top 10 is my goal,” McLing said. “I just have to work hard and have good conditioning, and I need to get a good start.” McLing has attended Edgewood Academy since he was in kindergarten and is also a member of the Edgewood JV football team. He started out competing at three local tracks — Monster Mountain in Tallassee, Crossbones MX in Billingsley and Millcreek MX in Pell City. Because of the competition level in the sport, McLing has had to travel outside Alabama to stay competitive on a national level. “I’ve traveled all across the U.S.,” McLing said. “My mom and dad have really helped me.” Although McLing is also a football player, he said he fell in love with motocross racing because of its unique nature. “Most sports aren’t like this,” McLing said. “This is way more complicated, and you have to be more fit and lightning fast on the course. At first when I was getting into it, it was hard to do the training, but now it’s not too hard. I just worked on what I had to work on to get better.” There are 35 different classes of competition at nationals, and McLing will compete in the 85 Mini Sr 1 and the 85 Mini Sr 2. The track contains a variety of jumps, corners and other obstacles. Racers will compete in three races over the course of the week, then their scores will be added up to determine a winner in each class.
Submitted / The Herald
Wetumpka’s Michael McLing is headed to the AMA National Motocross Championship. McLing is an Edgewoood Academy student and it is his second time qualifying for the national championships.
Archery range opening soon By AMALIA KORTRIGHT Staff Writer
Amalia Kortright / The Herald
The Wetumpka Sports Complex’s pavilion, multi-distance archery range and tower are set to open approximately a month from July 20, according to the city’s public works director.
According to Public Works Director Tex Grier, the construction on the archery range at the Wetumpka Sports Complex is near completion and is set to open in “approximately a month,” as of Friday. “This is just part of our ongoing efforts to make Wetumpka a travel destination instead of a pass through,” Grier said. “It’s a really nice facility that we’re really proud of.”
Grier said the city has been working to establish the archery range over the course of two years. He said the city was originally approached by the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. Grier said the city’s decision to add an archery range to the Sports Complex came after they noticed the diversity of interest in Wetumpka residents. While the archery range will be open to the general public, Grier said, hopefully, it will serve as a See ARCHERY • Page B2
PAGE B2 • JULY 25, 2018
TheWetumpkaHerald.com
THE WETUMPKA HERALD
AWF to host annual fishing rodeo By BETSY ILER Managing Magazine Editor
Courtesy / Kacie Williamson
The Wetumpka Youth League is inviting the community to a balloon release ceremony for 12-year-old Cadence Orsi, who died with her parents in a recent murder-suicide.
Balloon release to honor Cadence Orsi By AMALIA KORTRIGHT Staff Writer
To honor the life of 12-year-old Cadence Orsi, who died as the result of a recent murder-suicide in the Redland community, the Wetumpka Youth League is holding a balloon release ceremony at the Wetumpka Sports Complex baseball fields at 10 a.m. on Saturday, July 28. Softball coach Kacie Williamson said she remembers Cadence as a sweet soon-to-be seventh grader, a great softball player and a talented artist. According to Williamson, Cadence had also started learning the saxophone. Cadence was one of a set of triplet daughters, and is survived by them and an older sister. Both of her parents died in the murder-suicide. “I wanted to do something to honor Cadence. She was a wonderful ballplayer, a sweet girl and a joy to be around,” Williamson said. “She was hilarious, a goofball if you caught her in the right moment. She was just wonderful. I loved her like my own.” Williamson said the balloon release will also serve to commemorate Cadence’s mother, Charley Orsi. Williamson described Charley as a dedicated mother, who loved all four of her daughters dearly. Williamson said the Wetumpka Youth League family will not be the same without her. “With Cadence playing ball, the other triplets in gymnastics and (their older sister) in the band, she was everywhere,” Williamson said. “She was a staple in the stands.” Although police said Bob Orsi was responsible for the murder-suicide, Williamson said she felt the tragedy was the result of “spiritual warfare,” and wanted to give the community an opportunity to mourn him, as well. “We will never know what all went into it, what he was thinking and feeling,” Williamson said. “I just wished he would have asked for help.” Williamson said it is necessary for the community to come together in remembrance because so many lives were impacted by the Orsi family. While friends and family will have mourned the Orsis at the memorial service and funeral, Williamson said the balloon release will serve as a more lighthearted way to celebrate their lives and share memories. “I just want anybody that wants to be there to come. It’s not just a softball thing,” Williamson said. “I wanted to open it to the community because so many lives were touched by that family.”
In just a few weeks, the Alabama Wildlife Federation will host its annual Youth Fishing Rodeo at the catfish pond. The The 15th annual free fishing fest starts at 7 a.m. Aug. 4 and is open to children ages 15 and under, said Alabama Nature Center Camps and Community Programs Coordinator Matt Vines. “This event is one of the things that connects people to the outdoors in a family setting, especially the kids,” Vines said. “They have a great time, and this is a good experience that hopefully encourages them to go outside as they get older.” Gates open at 6:30 a.m., and participants will meet at the pavilion in the pecan grove to pick up stringers and T-shirts. Fishing will start at 7 a.m. at the upper pond. Alabama Nature Center is located on the AWF grounds at 3050 Lanark Rd., Millbrook. Though a free event, the rodeo is limited to 200 participants and reservations are recommended, Vines said. Participants should call 334-285-4550 to reserve a spot and sign up for a free T-shirt. Snacks and drinks will be available, and door prizes will be awarded. All participants must be accompanied by an adult and should bring their own fishing poles, coolers, buckets and other gear. “We hand out stringers to the kids during the rodeo, and there are door prizes, too – things like cups, coolers, tackle boxes, hats, gifts cards and fishing gear,” Vines explained. Kids will be allowed to catch and release as many fish as they want until 11 a.m., and they will be allowed to take home five of the catfish they catch. “It’s not a tournament – we will have a tournament later in the year. This is just a fun event for the kids. It always fills up though, so we need them to call the office and get their names on the list,” he added. Vines said the event is a great opportunity for quality family time that could help children develop an appreciation and understanding of the natural environment, as well as an introduction to the sport of
Submitted / Alabama Wildlife Federation
The annual fishing rodeo will take place at the upper pond at the Alabama Nature Center in Millbrook on Aug. 4. Participants will be allowed to bring home five fish.
fishing. Sponsors are needed to help stock the pond with fish and provide fish food, bait, door prizes, bottled water, ice, snacks,
T-shirts and portable toilets and hand-washing stations. Anyone interested in sponsoring part of the event is encouraged to call Vines for information.
Archery way to keep local youth active and involved in extracurricular activities. “It’s about keeping their interest in things that are productive,” Grier said. Once the archery range is open, Grier said local schools have considered starting archery teams for students and using the facility. He also said the range will host
continued from page B1
local competitions. Grier said the pavilion intended for the archers to stand and shoot is about 100-feet long, will feature a multi-distance range and a tower. It will be accessible under the guidelines of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Currently, Grier said the city is working to establish a designated parking area for the range.
He said the new archery range will afford both residents and non-residents another way to stay active and utilize the sports complex, which already has facilities for football, baseball, softball and soccer. “We are really fortunate, in the city of Wetumpka, of our size, to have the recreational facilities that we do,” Grier said.
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THE WETUMPKA HERALD
TheWetumpkaHerald.com
JULY 25, 2018 • Page B3
All About The Telephone
Telephone Word Find
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A Special Thank You To All Our Sponsors!
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PAGE B4 • JULY 25, 2018
TheWetumpkaHerald.com
THE WETUMPKA HERALD
THE WETUMPKA HERALD
TheWetumpkaHerald.com
JULY 25, 2018 • Page B5
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TheWetumpkaHerald.com
THE WETUMPKA HERALD
THE WETUMPKA HERALD
Police Reports Wetumpka Police Department July 13
• There was a report filed of theft of property a felony third degree at US Hwy 231. The incident was reported when a window AC unit, DEWALT Miter saw, DEWALT impact driver kit, 95-piece tool set, trash bags and toilet paper — all valued at $1,049.94 — were stolen from a business.
July 14
• There was a report filed of fraudulent use of a credit card a felony at the 100 block of Village Loop. The incident was reported when $340 was stolen from a residential home.
July 15
• There was a report filed of theft of property a felony at the 3000 block of U.S. Highway 231. The incident was reported when a shift shaver tool, a lip sealing ring tool, snap-on hand tools and sockets and three transmission coles — all valued at $4,950 — were stolen from a business. • There was a report filed of theft of property a felony at the 500 block of Hospital Drive. The incident was reported when a .380-caliber Smith and Wesson was stolen from an individual. • There was a report of possession of marijuana, a second-degree misdemeanor, at South Main Street.
July 16
• There was a report of theft of property a felony at the 600 block of U.S. Highway 231. The incident was reported when $375.28 and assorted snack foods and drinks valued at $21.57 were stolen from a service station. • There was a report filed of domestic violence in the form of harassment, a misdemeanor, at the 400 block of Short Street. The incident was reported from a residential home. • There was a report of harassment, a misdemeanor, at the 5000 block of U.S. Highway 231. The incident was reported from a restaurant.
July 17
• There was a report filed of theft of property, a felony, at the 2000 block of U.S. Highway 231. The incident was reported when a Cadillac 2008 SRX 4 door valued at $8,500 was stolen. • There was a report filed of harassment, a misdemeanor, at the 5000 block of U.S. Highway 231. There were pictures taken of injuries.
July 18
• There was a report filed of domestic violence in the form of harassment, a misdemeanor, at the 1000 block of Coosa River Parkway. The incident was reported when there was damage to a black iPhone 8 valued at $800. • There was a report filed of theft of property, a felony, at the 200 block of Saint Thomas Avenue. The incident was reported when blank checks from a business were stolen from a residential home.
July 19
• There was a report of theft of property, a misdemeanor, at 60 Redland Road. The incident was reported when soap and key chains valued at $20 w ere stolen from a department store. • There was a theft of property report, a misdemeanor, at the 4000 block of U.S. Highway 231. The incident was reported when truck lights, a radar detector, flashlight, amp kit and backpack — all valued at $241.34 — were stolen from a department store.
TheWetumpkaHerald.com
JULY 25, 2018 • Page B7
GOP primary runoff analysis by Steve Flowers
T
he storyline of last week’s GOP Primary runoff was the extremely low turnout. The big surprises to me were the big victories by Steve Marshall for Attorney General and Martha Roby for Congress. Their winning was not a surprise; however, their margin of victory was impressive. Going into the runoff my guess was that whichever one won between Marshall or Troy King, would win by a narrow margin. After all they had arrived at the runoff in a dead heat of 28 percent each. It is hard to tell how Marshall was able to trounce King by a 62 to 38 margin. The only logical theory would be that he got a sympathy vote from his wife’s death during the runoff. King’s filing a suit over Marshall’s campaign fundraising, days before the election, hurt the former Attorney General. It made him look like a loser. Also, it became apparent to me during the campaign that both Marshall and King were polarizing figures. Folks either liked them or they really did not like them. King obviously made some enemies and detractors during his tenure as Attorney General. As George Wallace used to tell me, “More folks vote against someone than for someone.” King will probably be residing in Buck’s Pocket, politically, for the rest of his life. However, he personally will be a lot better off, especially financially. Just ask Jere Beasley. The Lt. Governor’s race ended about like I expected. I thought it would be close and it was. It was really the only nip and tuck battle of the night. Will Ainsworth was the big winner of this 2018 political year. He went from being a one term state legislator from Sand Mountain to Lt. Governor of Alabama. At age 37, he is now the youngest
STEVE FLOWERS Columnist among the major players on the state political scene. His narrow but impressive victory supplants Twinkle Cavanaugh as the heir apparent to governor. This race attracted more money and attention than is usually the case, and for good reason. Our Lt. Governor has ascended to Governor more times than not in recent decades. If Kay Ivey is elected Governor, as expected, she will more than likely only serve one four-year term. Will Ainsworth with his victory last week has emerged as one of the favorites in the 2022 Governor’s race. How did young Ainsworth pull off his victory? If you are an observer of Alabama politics, you can see the path clearly. The more things change the more they stay the same. Ainsworth’s calling card from the get-go was that he had family money to spend. Sometimes people have money and tout that as an advantage but, when push comes to shove, they won’t spend it. Ainsworth put his money where his mouth was. He spent it. Money is the mother’s milk of politics. Ainsworth did a good days work when he hired whoever ran his campaign. His polling and media were dead on and outstanding. His polling and media people knew when to go negative and how much to spend and what ad would work. Thus, the truisms came into play. No. 1 — money talks. It is the mother’s milk of politics. No. 2 — is more people vote against someone than for someone. Thus, negative advertising works. Thirdly,
people in Alabama vote for someone from their neck of the woods. Especially in secondary races. Folks, there are a lot more people and votes in North Alabama than South Alabama. There was a distinct regional delineation that Ainsworth was from the north and Twinkle’s base and home was in South Alabama. North Alabama will beat South Alabama every day of the week and twice on Sunday. Finally, don’t ever run statewide in Alabama without the Alfa endorsement. Make no doubt about it, folks, Alfa is still the big dog in Alabama politics. They ran the table on all the statewide races in last Tuesday’s runoff. The Alfa endorsement was the common thread that appeared in the final results of all races. Ainsworth’s name, as the endorsed candidate of the Farmers Federation ballot was without a doubt the difference in the 10,000-vote margin by which he edged Twinkle. In a low turnout race, the Farmers Federation endorsement becomes ever more pronounced and accentuated. Farmers vote. They vote Republican. They vote the Alfa ballot. They not only won every legislative race in the state that they wanted, which is their bread and butter, in addition they won the statewide offices. So, you might say they got their dinner and dessert. You can probably bet the family farm that property taxes will not be raised in the Heart of Dixie this next quadrennium. See you next week. Steve Flowers is Alabama’s leading political columnist. His weekly column appears in over 60 Alabama newspapers. He served 16 years in the legislature. Steve may be reached at www.steveflowers.us.
PAGE B8 • JULY 25, 2018
TheWetumpkaHerald.com
THE WETUMPKA HERALD
Humane Society of Elmore County News
Wags & Whiskers Auction to be Friday By REA CORD HSEC Executive Director
This Friday is the night for our 13th annual Wags & Whiskers Auction at the Wind Creek Wetumpka Entertainment Center located at 100 River Oaks Drive in Wetumpka. If you don’t already have your ticket(s), not to worry as they will be on sale at the door for $25 per person and the doors open at 6 p.m. Tickets are also available at the shelter through Thursday. This is both a silent and live auction and even if you have never been to an auction, don’t worry, you get instructions at arrival and we’ll show you how it works. Silent Auction bidding begins at 6 p.m. when we open the Entertainment Center doors but no reason to rush as bidding will go on throughout the evening. Wind Creek Wetumpka will ensure a great layout of food for everyone as well as two cash bars. Kyle from Kyle-Co Entertainment will keep us entertained and informed as our Master of Ceremonies and High as the Sky Auction Company will crank up the live auction bidding around 7 p.m. Silent Auction bidding will continue throughout and until the cowbell clangs and our many auction volunteers will then help everyone collect their items and do the final payment processing. Parking for our auction will be primarily in the parking deck so please plan accordingly to drop someone off if you need to and then you will be able to pull up for loading at the end of the auction. Please do not park in the gas station/store area or behind the Entertainment Center as your vehicle will be towed. You can preview all of the auction items by checking out our special auction website: www.elmorehumane. auction. There will be some items we received late that won’t be on the website so look at those as bonus
surprises Friday night. We have something for everyone: weekend hotel/ resort packages for The Grand Hotel Marriott Resort in Point Clear, Battle House Renaissance Mobile Hotel & Spa & Marriott Shoals Hotel & Spa; tickets for two to the October Talladega NASCAR Truck Series Race and Monster Energy Cup in October; wine baskets, Granary Basket from Oakview Granary; numerous gift certificates to a wide cross-section of local businesses and services; Luke Skywalker’s Land Speeder for your child to motor around in; artwork galore; jewelry of all kinds; antique solid wood Secretary; crosssection of gift baskets; home décor; sports and outdoor items and so much more. And for our Alabama and Auburn Football fans you will want to purchase raffle tickets for your huge team basket chock full of team collectibles! You don’t want to miss out on so many great items as well as an evening with fellow shelter supporters and animal lovers. Please do thank our board and auction volunteers who work year-round to make this event successful as it is a culmination of tremendous work and generosity on the part of so many. We look forward to seeing everyone Friday.
CONTACT HSEC 334-567-3377 hselco@bellsouth.net www.elmorehumane.org 255 Central Plank Road in Wetumpka
HOURS Monday through Thursday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, July 27: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Pet of the Week – Saturn
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aturn is a Lab mix girl who is eight-months old and weighs about 60 pounds. She is the last of her litter and has been with us since February because she is a very shy girl. While Saturn is very loving, her comfort zone is with another dog so really needs a home where she will have another dog as a buddy — then you can see her shine. She is happy as a lark playing in water and will do well with an adopter willing to let her slowly develop her confidence in her new surroundings. Shelter adoption fees are $100 for dogs & $50 for cats under one-yearold; 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, free health exam with a participating veterinarian. To meet Saturn and other pets at the shelter, visit 255 Central Plank Road in Wetumpka. For more information, visit www.elmorehumane.org, email hselco@bellsouth.net or call 334-567-3377. The shelter is open for adoptions Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. This Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (so shelter staff can get ready for the Silent Auction starting at 6 p.m.) and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Jones reiterates serious issues from potential tariffs By DONALD CAMPBELL Staff Writer
Earlier this year, President Donald Trump announced a series of new tariffs to be levied against motor vehicles and automobile parts being imported into the United States, as well as newsprint paper produced in Canada and exported south. Last Thursday, Sen. Doug Jones reiterated the problems these tariffs can create with the Alabama economy during his weekly conference call with news agencies across the state. “In 2017, 57,000 jobs in the state of Alabama were related to automotive manufacturing,” Jones said. “Tariffs like this will devastate our economy. Automobiles are not a national security threat.” As a way to try and keep the state and national economy from suffering potentially irreparable damage, Jones reiterated he and Sen. Lamar Alexander (R-TN) are working to introduce a bill to Congress that would suspend the automotive tariffs. These import taxes will increase costs on both fresh-ofthe-line vehicles and parts needed to complete assembly at a U.S.-based plant by 25 percent. This means automobiles produced at locations throughout Alabama and neighboring states, including Hope Hull (Hyundai), Vance (Mercedes-Benz), Lincoln (Honda), Huntsville (the Toyota and Mazda plant under construction), West Point, Georgia (Kia) and Chattanooga, Tennessee (Volkswagen), not to mention the multitude of smaller factories that manufacture parts to be utilized in these larger plants, will cost more to produce and thus be more expensive on the showroom floor. Not only will this hurt the consumer out to purchase a new car, but this will be detrimental to those who work in any of these facilities. With Alabama having one of the largest car manufacturing bases in the country, the feeling will be that much more severe here than in many other places. According to data recently released by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Alabama would be the sixth-hardest state hit under these tariffs, with $3.6 billion in exports threatened. This places Alabama behind only Washington ($6.2 billion), Louisiana ($5.9 billion), California ($5.6 billion), Texas ($3.9 billion) and Illinois ($3.8 billion). “When we raise tariffs, we can count on others retaliating with their own,” Jones said, adding that the union representing many of those who work
File / The Herald
Doug Jones held a conference call with Alabama journalists last Thursday and reiterated the problems these tariffs can create with the Alabama economy during his weekly conference call with news agencies across the state.
in auto manufacturing centers has said if these tariffs go through, the Hyundai plant outside Montgomery would be among the first to see serious cutbacks. Tuesday, Jones and a number of his colleagues went before the United States International Trade Commission to testify regarding both the automobile and newsprint tariffs and the negative effects they may have. After hearing testimony from these senators, the ITC will be voting on this matter on Aug. 28, according to Jones. “You have my support on this (delay and repeal of the tariffs),” Jones said. “The more information we can get out about this, the better.” Newsprint paper tariffs could deal a severe, perhaps even crippling blow to small-town newspapers throughout the state and across the country. For publications that have a press and print not only their own newspapers, but also papers from other communities, this will create a serious ripple effect. Since these
companies cannot absorb the entire cost increase, they will have to pass some of it on to the papers who pay to have the larger group print their publications. In turn, the smaller papers will then have to either charge more or cut staff in order to maintain a workable revenue margin.
Following his discussion on the effect the president’s tariffs could have on the state and national economy, Jones opened up the discussion to other topics. During this time, he responded to questions on his civil rights cold case bill, the president’s comments during the recent Helsinki Summit with Vladimir Putin of Russia and the latest ads supporting Brett Kavanaugh for the Supreme Court opening, among other items. “I am stunned at President Trump’s comments,” Jones said. “There is not much confusion on what he said.” Jones felt, until the president acknowledges there was interference, there will be a problem that could continue to pop up again and again in the 2018 midterms and the 2020 general election. With so much focus having been placed on the recent summit in Finland, Jones said there has not been a major amount of action surrounding his bill to release records surrounding cold cases from the modern civil rights era, and while no co-sponsors have come on board over the last few days, Jones is looking to secure another primary sponsor to join Claire McCaskill (D-MO) and Kamala Harris (D-CA) in supporting the legislation. Jones admitted he has not seen the ad backing Kavanaugh, and will continue his own investigation into the nominee. “I am currently building my files,” Jones said. “It’s unfortunate that people take sides so quickly. I will continue doing my research and I will be watching the Senate Judiciary hearings.” Wrapping up his conversation before returning to a committee meeting, Jones had one final call to action for those taking part in the call. “These tariffs are a bipartisan issue that affects everyone,” he said. “Let your voices be heard.”