July 26, 2017 Wetumpka Herald by Tallapoosa Publishers

INSIDE TODAY: ELMORE COUNTY FYI South swept in AHSAA All-Star baseball

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The Nelons headline concert to benefit food pantry

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WEDNESDAY • JULY 26, 2017

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VOL. 119, NO. 30

Coosa River Craft House opens for business

By DAVID GRANGER Managing Editor

For those who appreciate good beer, a long-awaited event came to pass in downtown Wetumpka on Saturday morning. Just in time for the River and Blues Music & Arts Festival, the Coosa River Craft House, owned by John and Paige Stewart, opened its doors at 11 a.m. on

City objects to judge’s report, Dixon-Crenshaw attorney responds

Saturday “We’re so pleased,” said John Stewart. “This is a pretty good crowd for 11 o’clock in the morning, huh? We’ve been here 36 hours trying to get this place ready to open. It can pay its own bills now.” With duo Chuck Lofton and Curt McKinney entertaining the crowd, the craft beer finally began to flow at 108

South Main St. in the old Carr Motor building. Among the 19 beers on tap on Saturday morning – according to Stewart, the selection will change from time to time – were 30A, Avondale’s Battlefield single IPA, Good People Snakehandler and IPA, Straight to Ale’s He Ain’t Hefe, Laughing Skull, Lagunitas, Snakehandler, Chococlate Churro, Woot Stout, Truckstop

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County commission approves alcohol ordinance, talks employee leave By COREY ARWOOD Staff Writer

By COREY ARWOOD Staff Writer

City attorneys filed objections to a judge’s recommendations on their attempts at summary judgment in a district court case levied by an ex-police chief ousted and a former deputy chief demoted in an alleged “scheme of Mayor Jerry Willis.” The city’s objections elicited a fiery response from the attorney of ex-Wetumpka Police Chief Cecelia Dixon and former deputy chief Anthony Crenshaw, now a lieutenant. The response and evidence within it widened the dragnet of elected officials swept up in the “scheme” as illustrated within the judge’s initial report and recommendation. Now two council members were said by Dixon’s attorney to have also been in violation of the Alabama Open Meetings Act in collusion with the mayor to remove Dixon. The revelatory arguments by the plaintiffs’ attorney Wallace Mills were a response to the See CASE • Page A3

Honey, Underdog IPA and eight more selections. Approximately 12 of the selections are Alabama-brewed. “We like to support the Alabama brewers,” Stewart said. Stewart, who became a fan of craft beers during his 20-year career with a Birmingham tractor company, took the final steps to get Coosa River Craft See OPENING • Page A2

Corey Arwood / The Herald

A crowd of upwards of 300 people were rocking and reeling to Nathan & The Zydeco Cha-Chas, the Lousiana-based zydeco band who headlined the Wetumpka’s River & Blues Music and Art Festivals Saturday night.

River and Blues Festival a huge success By COREY ARWOOD Staff Writer

Hundreds of people were gathered in Gold Star Park Saturday night for the Wetumpka River and Blues Festival, and just before 8 p.m. there was a flurry of activity as newcomers filed in and daylong revelers moved to the main stage. After an afternoon of music and a day filled with arts, vendors, food, drink and music the headlining act was on stage, tuning up and the frontman choosing the right color accordion for the gig. On stage four men took to their See FESTIVAL • Page A2

The Elmore County Commission met Monday approving the Sunday alcohol sales ordinance, a probate judge’s project to further the digital directive for his office’s documents and a motion to begin policy changes to leave taken by county employees. Ordinance 2017-7-24 which regulates the Sunday sale of alcohol was approved. “This process began several months ago with the local delegation passing this in the State House and now we are in the final stages of that taking place here in Elmore County,” said Elmore County Commission Chairman Troy Stubbs. The ordinance, Stubbs said, would take effect on Aug. 1 of this year, however after Commissioner Kenny Holt asked, Stubbs said it would actually have impact on the first Sunday which would be Aug. 6. The ordinance was approved by unanimous vote. Elmore County Probate Judge John Enslen spoke about what he said was the next step in his efforts to digitize his office’s documents and records. Roughly 32,000 dated mortgage See COMMISSION • Page A8

Auburn ladies work with silver, indigo By DAVID GRANGER Managing Editor

Local craftsmen and women lined up along the Riverwalk that runs along the Coosa River on Saturday, selling their handcrafted wares to those who came largely for the music. “The only thing that we required from our artists is that their items be truly handcrafted,” said Tiffany Robinson, events director for the city. “I think we were able to draw an interesting variety.” Among those on hand along the Riverwalk selling their handcrafted products were a pair of ladies from the Auburn-Opelika area. Stephanie Edstrom of Auburn designs and sells artisan handcrafted jewelry and Kat Scarborough is an artist specializing in original artwork and custom portraits. She also does dyeing with indigo ink. “This is what I do,” said Edstrom. “This, and I have two kids. I’m a full-

time mom and I design jewelry.” Edstrom works largely with sterling silver, sometimes incorporating such natural herbs and spice such as dill, cayenne pepper, mustard seeds, hibiscus and corn flower. Scarborough, on the other hand, has a career as an art teacher. She teaches art to students in grades 3-5 at Opelika Elementary School. She, too, is a Mom with two boys, ages 6 and 1. “I’ve always painted,” said Scarborough. “My bachelor’s degree is in fine arts from Auburn and I have a degree in art education from Montevallo.” Scarborough explained what she does with indigo dyes, pointing out that dying with indigo was a precursor to photography. “I started experimenting with indigo dyes when I was in school at Auburn,” See ARTISTS • Page A8

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David Granger / The Herald

Stephanie Edstrom, left, and Kat Scarborough were among those selling handcrafted items at the Wetumpka River and Blues Music & Arts Festival on Saturday. Edstrom designs and markets sterling silver jewelry, often inlaid with herbs and spices for color, and Scarborough does original paintings, custom portraits and works with indigo dyes.

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TheWetumpkaHerald.com

Obituaries Henry Leo “Sonny” Newton NEWTON, Henry Leo “Sonny”, a resident of Deatsville, Alabama passed away Wednesday, July 19, 2017 at the age of 73. Funeral services will be held Saturday, July 22, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at Shoal Creek Baptist Church with Rev. Shane Russell officiating. Burial will follow at Coosa River Cemetery with Gassett Funeral Home of Wetumpka directing. Mr. Newton is preceded in death by his parents, Jamie L. & Gretel Newton, and his brothers, Dale Newton and Kenny Newton. He is survived by his wife, Jean Newton, sons, Colin (Susan) Newton, Chris (Amanda) Newton, sister, Karen Newton (Lonnie) Carden, grandchildren, Mason Newton, Zachary Newton, and Ella Kate Newton. Active pallbearers will be Tim Armstrong, Joe Brock, Brian Darnell, Roger Fuller, Dewayne Newton, Kyle Whitaker, Kenny Williams, and Kenny Wilson. Honorary pallbearers will be Johnny Albright, Wayne Darnell, Jim Guy, Richard Harris, Jack Holley, Sid Rogers, Bob Whitaker, and Brent Williams. Visitation will be held Friday, July 21, 2017 from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Gassett Funeral Home. Mr. Newton will lie in state 30 minutes prior to service time at Shoal Creek Baptist Church. Flowers will be accepted or memorial donations may be made to Shoal Creek Baptist Church Building Fund, 13214 Holtville Road, Deatsville, Alabama 36022. The family would like to extend a very special Thank You to Sonny’s sister, Karen Newton and her husband, Lonnie Carden. They accompanied Sonny and Jean to countless doctor’s appointments and were at his bedside every step of the way. Without

their unconditional love and generous support he would not have been able to spend his last few months at home. Thank You to all the friends and family for all the phone calls, meals, visits, and especially prayers during this difficult time. The family would also like to thank Kindred Hospice staff and the very special caregivers Olivia and Marty Farrell. Online Guest Book available at www.gassettfuneralhome. net

Mrs. Mary Kathryn Lett LETT, Mrs. Mary Kathryn; a lifelong resident of Eclectic, Alabama was born on December 9, 1932 and passed away on Saturday, July 22, 2017 at the age of 84. The family will receive friends from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. on Friday, July 28, 2017 at Gassett Funeral Home. Funeral services are Friday at 2:00 p.m. at Gassett Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Charles Sanders officiating. Interment will follow at Sheppard Cemetery. Mrs. Lett is survived by her son, James A. “Buddy” Lett, Jr.; daughter and sonin-law, Karyn Lett Perez (John); grandchildren, Dana Sawyer, Jessica Perez, and Hannah Perez; great-grandchildren, Parker Sawyer, Riley Ann Sawyer, and Christina Layne Estes; sisters-in-law, Doris Williams and Nelda Williams. She was preceded in death by her husband in 2013, James Audrey, Lett, Sr.; son, Billy Lett, brothers, Fred Y. Williams and Jimmy Williams. Flowers will be accepted or memorial contributions are requested to the United Methodist Children’s Home, 3140 Zelda Court, Suite 100, Montgomery, AL 36106. Online Guest Book available at www.gassettfuneralhome.net

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Opening House open for business for the music and arts festival on Friday, when, at a specially called meeting of the Wetumpka City Council, he was granted a city license to sell beer for on– and off– premises consumption. “The city has been very good to us during this whole process,” Stewart said. “We couldn’t ask for any more from them.” This isn’t Stewart’s first foray into the craft beer business. Stewart’s Autauga Creek Craft House in Prattville is the model for the Wetumpka location. The tables are handmade by family and friends of the Stewarts. Dominating one wall are American and Alabama flags made from wooden planks that, Stewart says, have become “selfie stations” in his Prattville

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establishment. The Coosa River Craft House does not serve food, but encourages its customers to bring food in from other downtown establishments or – like several customers did on Saturday – order delivery from a local pizza place. “I don’t want to compete,” Stewart said. “I want to enhance what is already here in Wetumpka. I am here to complement the businesses already downtown. “I want Coosa River Craft House to be a place where people can come in and enjoy conversation with friends over a few beers. Coosa River Craft House is open from 3 David Granger / The Herald p.m until 10 p.m Monday Paige Stewart, co-owner of Coosa Craft House with her husthrough Thursday and band, John, points to the first dollar ever earned by the new 3 p.m. until 11 p.m. on South Main establishment. Fridays and Saturdays.

Festival respective instruments, which might have seemed unconventional to the unsuspecting eye of a first time festival-goer. “What a great night it is to be in Wetumpka, Alabama, right?” the emcee asked and the crowd replied with a roar and some whistles. “Thanks for coming out to the River and Blues festival. We had a great day it’s been a long day, a hot day. A lot of you have been here from the beginning. We thank you for that. If you just showed up just a minute ago, we thank you for that, too. We’re glad you’re here, we’re going to have a great time. Give it up Nathan Williams and the Zydeco Cha-Chas!” Ultimately, the announcer’s guarantees stood true and from

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appearances everyone appeared to be having a good time. Williams took to the microphone and with a booming voice, said “Alabama, I come to party wicha’, we come to party wicha’,” he said with a New Orleans drawl before knocking out a few bars on his white accordion. The band kicked into a rhythmic groove and that was all it took to get the first dancers up to the stage. Williams cut his accordion in and out, playing solo after solo in between scant vocals: “Follow me chicken, not that Chicken in the barnyard, chicken too small to fry.” In his opening act Williams walked out into the crowd, among the dancers and those sitting,

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laying into a lengthy accordion cut before heading back to the stage. “I come to party whicha’. You know what I tell people all the time? I’m up Louisiana where the crawfish got soul, and the alligators sing the blues and if you don’t get up and shake a leg call the undertaker, because you’re dead,” Williams said between sets and then launching into the “Zydeco Boogaloo.” Walking through the crowd there was toe-tapping and knee-slapping and further back the more reserved talked through the band. City of Wetumpka Economic Development Director Lynn Weldon was at the show. About the size of the audience, she said, “This is the biggest crowd we’ve had. Oh, by far, I’ve never seen it completely full back here.” Wetumpka Fire and Police department officials and personnel were gathered on the outer perimeter of the concert area. Both said the event had been low-key with littleto-no incidents requiring either first-aid assistance

or law enforcement. Up the festival route behind the City Administration Building where any number of meats on sticks could be found, the hungry ate or perused the options. Among them were local business owners, Therese and Chris Carter, of a Company Street kayaking tour outfit and bait shop, Coosa River Adventures and Stoddard’s Bait Shop. Asked what they thought of the festival and what it had done for business, Therese Carter answered. “I’m impressed with the crowd, for sure,” said Carter. On the business side she said they had been booked regardless given peak paddling season, however she said some of their customers made their way to the festival since they were in town. “Now we did have folks that I think paddle with us come down … I shared it on our Facebook page and there were several people that were like ‘Oh hey, you know, that‘s right down the road from where we’re paddling,” Carter said.

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Case objections made by the city’s attorneys who requested the district judge reconsider his recommendation to deny summary judgment. In those arguments, information not included in the judge’s report was provided by Mills against the city’s objections. “Most importantly, though, as argued before, Dixon is without crucial direct evidence on the subject because (Rebecca) Thornton and (Kevin) Robbins violated the Alabama Open Meetings Act by holding serial, un-advertised and closed meetings with the other council members about an issue upon which they knew they would be expected to vote,” wrote Mills. The “subject” in reference was described in the attorney’s response as a plan between Thornton, Robbins and Willis and five police officers tasked to make complaints prompting the investigation ultimately used by the council to oust Dixon. District One Councilman Robbins emerged in the document as part of the body of councilors along with the recently resigned Thornton, who allegedly colluded with Willis to oust then Chief Dixon after she was elected in 2009. Plaintiff case facts, like this, written by the judge in his June report will be argued in the upcoming trial if the city’s latest objections are not accepted by the judge. The majority of information presented by Mills was found in his reply to the city’s objection on the grounds of Dixon’s claims of age discrimination, taking up roughly five of its 21 pages. “There is sufficient evidence from which a juror could find that Rebecca Thornton and Kevin Robbins were in league with the Mayor, whose discriminatory animus was at the heart of this case. The Mayor said he didn’t want Dixon because she was ‘a woman and she’s too old.’ He said that he would have something to do with getting rid of her. He told her she better watch her

JULY 26, 2017 • Page A3

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back,” wrote Mills. He fired off responses to the arguments levied by the city’s attorneys. “Percy Gill, a member of the council, testified that Thornton and Robbins voted with the Mayor 99.9-percent of the time; there were discrepancies and inconsistencies in the testimony of Robbins and Thornton on key issues – particularly with regard to what the Mayor knew and didn’t know when the police officers complained to Thornton; this being key because the Mayor disavowed knowledge, yet at least one typed version of Rebecca Thornton’s notes say (that) he did know.” The city’s efforts at summary judgment were intended to have certain points dismissed prior to trial, namely Dixon’s employee status, her age discrimination claims, gender discrimination claims and Crenshaw’s retaliation claims. Within a 14-page document the city argued seven points against the judge’s report. The report recommended their request for summary judgment on each point presented in the initial appeal for summary judgment be denied. In his conclusion Dixon and Crenshaw attorney Wallace Mills writes, “Defendants object to the Report and Recommendation on every point. The findings of the Magistrate Judge, however, were wellreasoned; he accepted the facts in a light most favorable to the Plaintiff’s where there was dispute, and he applied the law correctly.” He concludes, “While some of the evidence is circumstantial, there is such a great weight of it that a reasonable fact finder could base a finding that Dixon was disparately treated and ultimately terminated from her employment as a direct result of Jerry Willis (’s) long-running, active plot to ‘get rid’ of her because she ‘was a woman and she’s too old.’ Likewise, Anthony Crenshaw was demoted from Deputy Chief of the department to Lieutenant and assigned to the junior high school because he

refused to be Jerry Willis’ ‘man’ and help him get rid of the ‘overweight old woman.’” He quoted testimony of a former councilwoman at the time of Dixon’s hiring, and that of Crenshaw. The nature of the judge’s role in deliberating whether summary judgment can occur, as stated numerous times within these documents, is to determine whether there is reason to dismiss evidence lodged by a plaintiff, Dixon and Crenshaw, against the defendant, the city. However, the plaintiff’s stance should be viewed in a “favorable light” by the judge in the instance of a dispute or question. The city’s attorney undersigned on the objection is Rick Howard of Holtsford Gilliland Higgins Hitson & Howard, P.C., of Montgomery. To their objection on age discrimination claims, which were upheld by the judge’s report, Howard states Willis was older than Dixon despite his alleged statements and Willis was not the decision-maker who terminated Dixon, the council did. He said Dixon did not provide proof three councilors who voted against her were age biased, and Dixon relied on what was coined as the “cat’s paw” and had adduced no evidence of any “scheme” or “plot” between the Mayor and council. It would be inference, he wrote, that the council ordered an investigation into officer complaints, leading to Dixon’s dismissal. Mills writes: “The council failed to consider Dixon’s response to the charges posited against her before they voted; the responses were not included in the report of Dana Hill; the Council moved to a vote on the issue of her termination without discussion over the objection of one of the council members; the Council ignored the cautionary statement included in the report of Dana Hill; the same police officers who purportedly complained to Thornton in the first place were promoted irregularly

In the early evening of June 23, 2017, Dustin Levi Ragan’s free spirit rose from the waters of the Coosa River and soared into Heaven to be with God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. He will always have a special place in the hearts of many friends and family. – Gran The family of Levi Ragan wishes to express our deep appreciation and heartfelt thanks to the rescue and law enforcement groups and our loving relatives and friends who diligently worked in recovering Levi from the Coosa River. We also thank those who sent cards, Àowers and kind expressions of sympathy. Your support at this dif¿cult time is very much appreciated and of great comfort. We will be forever grateful.

by the Mayor and some were seen meeting serruptisously (sic) with the Mayor prior to the Council meeting at which Dixon was terminated.” The investigation in question referred to that of Dana Hill, or the “Hill Report” which the city maintains was ordered by the city attorney, whereas the plaintiffs contend it was ordered as pretext for Dixon’s firing. Testimony from the officers referenced in the quote above in the investigation details, was said to be from five white males, who reportedly met with Thornton to lodge complaints against Dixon, and according to information in the response was the testimony from only five of 31 people interviewed. “The evidence demonstrates that Willis sent the five original complaining police officers to make the complaints; that Thornton and Robbins held illegal serial meetings with other council members to garner sufficient votes; that they did not take into consideration the ‘independent’ investigator’s cautionary statement in her report about these complainants and the fact that the ‘far majority of the complaints’ came from them; Dixon’s written responses to the allegations were withheld from the investigator and the Council; and that the Council moved to a vote on the issue without discussion over the objection of one of the council members.” Efforts to speak with Mayor Jerry Willis were unsuccessful due to what his aide stated to be the pending nature of the litigation. The trial is set for early 2018.

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Steve Baker, Publisher David Granger, 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.

OPINION

Page A4 • JULY 26, 2017

“Our liberty cannot be guarded but by the freedom of the press, nor that be limited without danger of losing it.” --Thomas Jefferson

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Enjoying the rewards from my garden of life

just finished watering my crops. Since most of them are planted in 5-gallon buckets with holes drilled in the bottom for drainage, I have to water them just about every day. It seems that the ones planted into the earth stay hydrated longer and appear healthier than the ones in the buckets. They simply have a better foundation. Those with the earth sustain longer and are more aesthetically pleasing, but the ones in the buckets taste just as good. I notice a lot of thing when I’m working with the homegrown groceries. First of all, due to our very mild winter, I notice all the bugs. When I walk out, I’m immediately attacked my gnats, mosquitoes, and other unidentified flying objects. It’s as if I’m covered with the Army’s insect repellant, which is supposed to be like Off, but I always called it “On.” Bugs were definitely attracted to it. Well, that or we were just always in bug-infested environments. Perhaps it was a little bit of both. While watering each bucket, I take a long look at each plant. I always have my garden pruner in my other hand and am quick to snip off dead pieces, particularly on my tomatoes plants. I want to

JODY FULLER Columnist

take care of them and want them to look pretty at the same time. If a tomato has been attacked by a horn worm or any other type of vile creature, I’ll snip it and throw it into my compost pile. Oftentimes, I’ll get a surprise tomato plant out of it. There’s a rather large one growing in my compost pile right now. Lucy had several growing in her compost, so I dug most of those up and repotted them. They are arguably my best-looking tomato plants. Who knew? I have others, along with pepper plants that popped up in other buckets. Perhaps they came from soil from my compost. Maybe the wind blew the seed. I don’t know. It really doesn’t matter. I have them now, and they are my responsibility. One of my biggest surprises of the year has been my watermelon vine. It’s a miracle, I tell you. Last year I planted an overabundance of them in a very small area. I really went

overboard. Remember, it was my first year having a garden, and I didn’t know what I was doing. The vines grew very well but didn’t produce very much fruit. I think I only got to enjoy one watermelon and enjoy it I did. Others tried to grow but something got ahold to them and they quickly perished. There is but one vine this year, and it’s beautiful. It wasn’t planted, and it wasn’t planned; it just happened, naturally. It grew from last year’s failure. God often works like that, at least in my garden of life. I didn’t plan the beautiful tomatoes that came from the compost, but with the foundation of rich soil and nutrients, it had no choice but to grow. They just popped up one day, and once they popped up, I couldn’t not take care of them. They were my responsibility, and I’ve enjoyed watching them grow. I really enjoy watching them feed my family. What a blessing, in so many ways. Jody Fuller is a comic, speaker, writer and soldier with three tours of duty in Iraq. He is also a lifetime stutterer. He can be reached at jody@jodyfuller. com. For more information, please visit www.jodyfuller.com

334-567-7811 • Fax 334-567-3284 email: news@thewetumpkaherald.com THE WETUMPKA HERALD (681-260) is published weekly on Wednesday by Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc., 548 Cherokee Road, Alexander City, AL 35010. Periodical postage paid at Wetumpka, Alabama. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: The Wetumpka Herald, P.O. Box 99, Wetumpka, AL 36092-0099 ISSN # 1536-688X.

We reserve the right to refuse to print any advertisement, news story, photograph or any other material submitted to us for any reason or no reason at all. •Obituaries - $.25 per word per paper. Additional $15 charge for a photo per paper. (Herald, 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 David Granger, managing editor david.granger@thewetumpkaherald.com NEWS Corey Arwood, staff writer corey.arwood@thewetumpkaherald.com Carmen Rodgers, staff writer carmen.rodgers@thewetumpkaherald.com SALES Marilyn Hawkins, marketing consultant marilyn.hawkins@TheWetumpkaHerald.com Ext. 305

Putting up the recent harvest, both tasty and bitter

y wife spent yesterday at home canning pickles. Don’t worry. I can guarantee you they are better than Aunt Bea’s kerosene pickles of Andy Griffith Show fame. Lynn’s pickles – as well as her pickled okra and pickled green beans – are renowned at family gatherings and tailgate parties. So, as my wife puts up her pickles, I think I’ll harvest a few of the local news items of the recent past. My first jar has to be of last week’s River and Blues Music & Arts Festival. Despite the fact that it was hotter’n blue blazes, everything seemed to go well. The music was fantastic, with King Bee and Nathan and the Zydeco Cha-Chas both living up to their billing. The food was tasty – though maybe all of us could do with a few less fried goodies – and the artisans brought some quality handcrafted products to town. I didn’t make it to the wakeboarding contest, but I hear that it was a hit, as well. So here’s kudos to Tiffany Robinson, the city’s event director, and everyone else who worked so hard to make the event a success. Surely one jar of canned goods won’t get us through even a mild Wetumpka winter, so here’s a second: After some unavoidable delay, the Coosa River Craft House opened on Saturday morning to a large thirsty crowd, especially for 11 a.m. on a Saturday morning. John and Paige Stewart appear to be on the cusp of a very

DAVID GRANGER Managing Editor

successful business here in Wetumpka. Already having the experience of the Autauga Creek Craft House in Prattville, they know what they’re doing and will bring craft beer fans in Wetumpka an ever-changing – and exciting – selection. It’s hard to wrap one’s head around the Celia Dixon and Anthony Crenshaw suits against the city, especially with little coming from the city’s side with the litigation pending. These may be the kerosene pickles we feared, reminiscent of Aunt Bea’s sour tasting cukes. Thing is, we can’t replace these with store bought or feign enjoyment and quickly devour them. We must wait until next year to see how everything shakes out, barring some unforeseen circumstance. And that’s a shame. There’s a lot of good happening in the city. Main Street Wetumpka promises to be an additional positive force. Already we’ve seen some movement downtown with the Craft House, Market Shoppes and the coming sandwich shop. And the streets promise to become more attractive with the coming downtown renovation, though maybe not as fast as some would like. But all cities have growing

pains. This is apparently Wetumpka’s major one. Let’s hope it goes by the wayside soon and that the city continues toward its new prosperity. Let’s put away one last jar of goodies for the future. And this one we won’t have to wait long to open. There’s a new season that’s right around the corner. It’s the season of blitzes and 10-yard curls and one in which the local high schoolers had a lot of success last season. Football will soon be here. With it will come a new reason to rally together and root for the city’s young warriors as they work hard to do Wetumpka proud. And also with football season will come the opportunity to again root for your choice of this state’s two stellar college football programs, Auburn and Alabama. Or perhaps you’re a Troy State or South Alabama fan. Regardless, the season we live for down in these parts is almost here. So let’s celebrate our recent successes, hope our trials turn out for the best for all concerned and look forward to some cooler, crisp autumn air to come our way soon. In the meantime, have another pickle. David Granger is the the managing editor of Tallapoosa Publishers Elmore County newspapers. He can be reached at david.granger@ thewetumpkaherald.com

THE WETUMPKA HERALD

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

JULY 26, 2017 • Page A5

What would you say?

reetings from the corner of Bridge and Bridge! We are enjoying a brief reprieve from the heat of summer this Monday morning as I am writing. I do love summer sunshine, but a little bit of overcast is always welcome this time of year. How many of you have ever participated in a “bring a friend to church” Sunday? The practice has been around for quite some time in the life of the church. The basic idea is to encourage everyone attending a particular church to invite someone who is without a church home to visit one. It is a great idea. Since we are living in a time when more and more people do not feel the need to belong to a church family, perhaps the idea needs some tweaking. The

AME ZION Mt. Zion Chapel AME Zion 2340 Crenshaw Rd., Wetumpka 567-4413 Rogers Chapel AME Zion 709 W. Bridge St., Wetumpka 567-8144 Jackson Chapel AME Zion 4885 Coosada Rd., Coosada Jones Chapel AME Zion 2414 Ingram Rd. (Co. Rd. 3), Elmore ABUNDANT LIFE Abundant Life Church 9301 U.S. Hwy 231., Wetumpka 567-9143 ASSEMBLY OF GOD Agape Tabernacle Assembly of God 1076 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic 541-2006 Bethel Worship Center 11117 U.S. Hwy 231., Wetumpka 567-5754 Crossroads Assembly of God 2534 AL Hwy 14., Millbrook 285-5545 First Assembly of God 3511 Shirley Ln., Millbrook New Home Assembly of God 5620 Caesarville Rd., Wetumpka 5692825

F rst © UNITED METHODIST

idea remains solid, but it seems to me the approach needs to shift somewhat. Belonging to a church family makes as much difference in a person’s life now as it ever has. There are numerous reasons for anyone to refrain from belonging to a church family. Chief among these is that the world is full of folks who have been hurt by the church. This should come as no surprise to anyone. The church is an imperfect thing full of imperfect people. As it turns out, this is the main reason I can think of for belonging to a church family. I am fully aware that no one wants to be reminded of imperfection, but having the freedom to be imperfect while working to follow the perfect example of Jesus Christ

REV. JONATHAN YARBORO First Presbyterian Church

is quite liberating. The church does not have to be perfect. God in Jesus Christ is, and that is sufficient for us all. If the reason you would invite someone to church is in order to fill the offering plate, think about what that says about the church. The unintentional message conveyed is “We don’t care so much about you. We just want your money.” There are a lot of people who have turned away from the church for this reason. If the reason you would

invite someone to church is to expand the family atmosphere you enjoy at the ball park or social gathering, think about what that says about the church. The small groups we find connection with in our lives are invaluable, but they often work for us because we are somewhat like-minded with others in the group. They work because we know the rules and expectations, so to speak. If your reason for inviting someone to church is to let the congregation fix them, think again. We are all broken in our own way. Taking ownership of the salvation of others is dangerous business indeed, and human kind is not up to that task. So what would you say to someone you wanted to invite to your church? Every church

Area Churches 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 569-1952 Mt. Hebron West Baptist 150 Mt. Hebron Rd., Elmore 567-4441 Mt. Herron East Baptist Church 4355 Mt. Herron Rd. Eclectic, Al 36024 334-857-3689 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

needs givers. We all need fellowship and study. We all need to be reminded of God’s gift of grace and the power of God’s redemptive love. The simple truth is that God does not need the church. God’s ongoing revelation continues in, through, and sometimes in spite of the institution of, the church. The church needs God. When imperfect people come together for worship, fellowship, study and sharing of blessings, the movement of God’s Holy Spirit is impossible to ignore. Don’t take my word for it. See for yourself! Rev. Yarboro is the Pastor of First Presbyterian Church, Wetumpka

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 Refuge Baptist Church 3098 Red Hill Road Tallassee 334-857-2638 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

First United Methodist Church of Wetumpka

WETUMPKA

306 W. Tuskeena Street • 334-567-7865 www.firstwetumpka.com

Worship: 8:15 AM Chapel • 10:30 AM Sanctuary Wednesday Bible Study • 6:15 PM Summer Schedule: Please Call the Church Office for Children and Youth Activities

ARMONY H United Methodist Church

Wallsboro United Methodist Church 11066 U.S. 231 • Wallsboro Rev. Ryan Johnson, Pastor

8000 Titus Road Titus, AL

R Rickey Luster, M Music Director

Sunday Services at 11a.m. ___

Sunday School.........10:45 a.m. Morning Worship........9:30 a.m. Children’s Church......9:30 a.m. Thurs. Night Service...6:00 p.m.

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...................9:00 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

“And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” – Romans 8:28

Many a small thing

has been made

large..

408 West Bridge Street Wetumpka, AL 36092

...with the right kind of advertising.

Jason Chesser Minister Sunday Prayer & Fellowship...............8:30 a.m. Bible Study..............9:00 a.m. Worship Service....10:00 a.m.

• Alexander City Outlook • Dadeville Record • Wetumpka Herald • Eclectic Observer • Tallassee Tribune

Wednesday Bible Study..............7:00 p.m. Visitors Welcome At All Services

256.234.4281

1025 RiÀe Range Road • Wetumpka 334.567.4458

504 West Osceola Street 334-567-4729 •••• Rev. Anthony Rhodes, Senior Pastor

www.mvbaptistchurch.info

Dr. Tim Thompson - Pastor Angie Gallups - Worship Leader

Sarah Swedenburg, Worship Ministries

Sunday Morning Worship............10:30 Sunday School..................9:15 Evening Worship..............6:00 AWANA (Aug.-May).......5:25

Derek Blankenship, Student Ministries

SUNDAY SERVICES Sunday School...........9:30 a.m. Morning Worship.....10:30 a.m. Evening Worship.......6:00 p.m. WEDNESDAY SERVICES Prayer Meeting...........6:00 p.m. Choir Rehearsal.........6:45 p.m. Student Worship........6:00 p.m. Calvary Kids...............6:00 p.m.

Wednesday Activities 6:00 Adults......Prayer and Message Youth/College......Bible Study Children’s..........GA’s & RA’s

www.centeringlives.com

Cedarwood Community Church 10286 U.S. Hwy. 231 Wallsboro, AL (334) 567-0476 www.worshipcedarwood.org

Sunday Bible Study...9:00 AM Sunday Worship......10:00 AM

SANTUCK BAPTIST CHURCH 7250 Central Plank Road “A Family of Families” B.R. Johnson, Senior Pastor Larry Gore, Adm. & Counseling Randy Godfrey, Education Chad Middlebrooks, Students Matt Fallin, Worship Amy Pugh, Children & Preschool

We are a Congregational Christian Church which, in the name of Jesus, invites all to worship with us.

SUNDAY Sunday School........9 & 10:30 a.m. Worship...................9 & 10:30 a.m. Evening Celebration...........5 p.m.

Nursery ____

WEDNESDAY/FAMILY NIGHT Programs for every age 6:15 - 7:30 p.m.

Check out our Facebook page

Spring & Fall Soccer Seasons K4-6th Grade

Send your church news and happenings to: news@TheWetumpkaHerald.com ____________

Call Marilyn 334.567.7811 to advertise your church’s services in this space

PAGE A6 â&#x20AC;˘ JULY 26, 2017

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

THE WETUMPKA HERALD

THE MOON

The Moon is a celestial body, or satellite, that orbits around planet Earth. Scientists generally agree that the Moon most likely formed when a large body, close to the size of Mars, hit the Earth. The impact would have destroyed the body that hit the Earth, as well as several outer layers of the Earth. The debris from such an event would have then been pulled back together by gravity and formed the Moon. For billions of years afterwards, while the Solar System was still young, the Earth and the Moon were both bombarded by meteors crashing into them. Earthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s scars from that time have mostly healed from weather and erosion, but WKH FUDWHUV RQ WKH 0RRQ DUH VWLOO YLVLEOH 7KH ÂżQDO VWDJH LQ WKH 0RRQÂśV IRUPDWLRQ RFFXUUHG RYHU WKH QH[W WZR billion years. Molten lava seeped up from beneath the surface forming dark areas called maria. The Moonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s surface hardened into the grayish-green landscape that it still has today. There is no weather on the Moon. There are no clouds and no atmosphere (the gases that surround a planet). The sky is always black and starry, and there is only a whisper of wind which is caused by the Sun. Craters created billions of years ago remain practically unchanged. The largest is about 700 miles wide. Meteors, comets, and asteroids can hit the Moon with massive force causing debris to splash out of the craters and form gray streaks called UD\V 7KH\ FDQ EH D WKRXVDQG PLOHV ORQJ 1R OLIH H[LVWV LQ WKH 0RRQÂśV GXVW\ VRLO 7KH JUDYLW\ RQ WKH 0RRQ LV RQH VL[WK RI WKDW RQ WKH (DUWK ZKLFK PHDQV D SHUVRQ ZHLJKLQJ SRXQGV RQ (DUWK ZRXOG RQO\ ZHLJK Asteroids, Craters, Crescent, Earth, Far-side, Full, Gibbous, SRXQGV RQ WKH 0RRQ 7KH 0RRQ GRHV QRW SURGXFH LWV RZQ OLJKW ,W UHĂ&#x20AC;HFWV OLJKW IURP WKH 6XQ DOORZLQJ XV WR VHH LW IURP (DUWK 7KH WLPH WKH 0RRQ WDNHV WR WXUQ RQ LWV D[LV DQG WKH WLPH LW WDNHV WR RUELW WKH (DUWK Gravity, Maria, Meteor, Moon, is just over 27 days. This causes us to only see one side, the near side, of the Moon as it goes through its Near-side, New, Orbit, Quarter, monthly phase. The part we cannot see is called the far-side. The average temperature for the side of the Ray, Satellite, Soil, Solar System, 0RRQ IDFLQJ WKH VXQ LV GHJUHHV ZKLOH LW LV GHJUHHV IRU WKH VLGH H[SHULHQFLQJ QLJKW CONNECT

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DID YOU KNOW THAT THE FIRST MAN ON THE MOON WAS ASTRONAUT NEIL ARMSTRONG? THE APOLLO 11 MISSION LANDED ON THE MOON ON JULY 20, 1969.

MOON MAZE

A SPECIAL THANK YOU FROM ALL OUR SPONSORS!

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TheWetumpkaHerald.com

JULY 26, 2017 • PAGE A7

EVAN DUDLEY Sports Editor

Thoughts on Freeze resigning

think we all know what I’m going to write about this week. Whether you’re Crimson or Orange and Blue clad, you have an opinion on the matter. We’re talking about Hugh Freeze. The former head coach of the Ole Miss Rebels resigned last week amid a scandal that might eventually bring the program as close to the “death penalty” as any institution has since the infamous SMU case in the late 1980s. Phone records linking the coach to an out-of-state escort service were inadvertently made available by the university to private investigators and authors. The resulting research revealed the source of the phone calls and, with less than two months from the start of the 2017 regular season, Freeze was given his walking papers – in the more presentable resignation form – and the Rebels are looking for a sturdy hand to guide them through what most believe will be a hell-fire and brimstone lecturing from the NCAA Committee on Infractions. Although the NCAA investigation into the athletic program regarding recruiting and program violations was well under way before 2016, the year-long hell that the Ole Miss program has endured began with Laremy Tunsil face planting into the microphone during the 2016 NFL Draft. The first-round pick of the Miami Dolphins admitted on record to accepting impermissible benefits. That moment brought more pressure and eyes to Oxford than anyone imagined. And the football team performed as if they were distracted by a dark ominous cloud hovering above the tiny southern town. Since the season ended it has been relatively silent, with the exception of lawsuits filed by former coaches seeking to clear their names in what they call a “smear campaign” to levy the burden of guilt onto them. And more accusations were thrown around. There was a sense that more was to come. The 2017 SEC Media Days welcomed Freeze to Hoover and the former coach spoke at length about the program sailing out of the storm and into better waters. He spoke of loyalty, integrity and faith. The same sermon he preached when he was hired and propagated throughout his tenure. Freeze, however, turned out to be another wolf hunting for his supper amid the sheep. It’s still unknown or confirmed whether the phone calls were for his personal use or for recruits, but the word on the street is the storm is about to fire back up and even more revelations are to come. I am not shocked. It could be said I’m taking a hard stance because I’m a graduate of the University of Alabama. But I am a journalist, I can take my Bama shirt off and think objectively regarding the concerns of the SEC. Besides, before transferring to Alabama and moving to Tuscaloosa, I was living in Fulton, Mississippi and planning to attend Ole Miss. The reason this issue fires me up is simple: the arrogance. I know I am one to talk – being an Alabama fan in my personal time – but my team has the trophy case to back it up. Ole Miss defeated Alabama two straight seasons but still managed to blow a trip to Atlanta. All Alabama did was win two SEC titles and the program’s 16th national title while the Ole Miss faithful insisted that they were the far superior program despite losing to the likes of Memphis and Arkansas. So, I direct this to any Ole Miss supporter, administrator or fan. Reliving Freeze of his duties only displays a deeper awareness of the university’s guilt. You absolutely deserve what’s coming to you. Evan Dudley is the sports editor of The Herald.

Evan Dudley / The Herald

Maurice Young Jr., a receiver for the 2016 Wetumpka Indians, fields a punt during the AHSAA North-South All-Star game.

South falls in football All-Star game

By EVAN DUDLEY Sports Editor

The South All-Stars fell to the North All-Stars, 14-13, Thursday at the Cramton Bowl, which served as the final contest of the AHSAA Summer Conference and AllStar Week. The South squad more than doubled the offensive yardage of the North but crucial and timely turnovers proved to be the deciding factor in the contest. Maurice Young Jr., a wide receiver from Wetumpka High School, and Ryan Rush, an offensive lineman from Elmore County High School, represented Elmore County in the event, which is open only to graduated high school seniors. Young started at receiver for the South with Rush started at center. “It was bittersweet but fun,” said Young. “We played a great game and came out on the wrong end but you couldn’t ask for anything better competition-wise.” The South received the opening kickoff and began from its own 27-yard line. Young took the first hand-off for nine yards and caught his first pass four plays later, but the ball was forced loose by Haleyville’s Will Evans and returned 46 yards by Hartselle’s Connor Landers for the opening score of the game.

The South wasted no time taking the field following the fumble and drove 67 yards in seven plays to even the score on a 32-yard pass from Leroy’s Chase Warren to Jeff Davis’ Tyler Wesley, who finished with 66 yards and two touchdowns. The defense for the South rose to the occasion for the remainder of the first quarter but a blocked punt in the second quarter gave the North the ball at the South 2-yard line. A fumble and false start penalty pushed the North back to the 11-yard line but a pass interference call in the end zone resulted in a new set of downs. Hartselle’s Trevor Oakes would find Florence’s Jakobi Byrd for a six-yard touchdown on the next play and the North led, 14-7 at halftime. Although his team was down at intermission, Rush was confident in the team’s ability after witnessing the chemistry created throughout the week. “I was a good week and everyone enjoyed it,” Rush said. “The coaches were great and enthusiastic in practice. Nothing was hard, the week went smoothly and we gave it everything we had in the game. We came out on the losing end but we were fired up coming out of the half and you have to give it up for the other guys. Great game.” The South defense bent but refused to break during the second half, holding the

North to 111 yards and forcing three punts and two fumbles. The offense had a much better half, accounting for 135 yards and no turnovers. Following a third quarter fumble by the North, Warren led the South squad 56 yards down the field, scoring with eight minutes left in the game and a chance to take the lead. Unfortunately, Warren’s pass fell incomplete on the ensuing two-point conversion and the North maintained its 14-13 in the closing minutes of the game. The North fumbled on their next drive but the South could not capitalize and punted back to the North with just less than four minutes in the game. The North managed a first-down but were unable to sustain the drive and returned the ball to the South for a possible game-winning drive with one minute remaining in the game. The South, however, came as close as the North’s 48-yard line before time expired, giving the North a sweep of the All-Star week series. “This week is a great experience for all the athletes involved,” said Wetumpka Head Coach Tim Perry, an assistant for the South squad. “You put your egos on check on Sunday night and come together during the week to learn the game plan. It’s a unique situation and these kids put in a lot of work and effort and you couldn’t be prouder of them.”

South swept in AHSAA All-Star baseball By EVAN DUDLEY Sports Editor

The North All-Stars began their week-long sweep of the south All-Stars with a doubleheader sweep in baseball to open the competition portion of the AHSAA Summer Conference and All-Star Sports Week. The South dropped the first game 9-3 and came close to upsetting the North in a tight 3-2 game to close out the series at Riverwalk Stadium in Montgomery. The opening game appeared to be a classic from the start, with the squads tied at two after the second inning, but the North exploded for three runs in the third and fifth innings – with a single run in the fourth inning – on their way to a 9-3 victory. Wetumpka’s Max Champion was brought in early in the first game as a catcher and went 0-1. Champion would go for 0-1 again in the second game but did tally an RBI in the second game. “We started strong each

Evan Dudley / The Herald

Wetumpka’s Max Champion snags a pitch low and away during the opening game of the AHSAA All-Star baseball series.

game but faded in the end,” said Champion. “We had a good couple of days of practice but we didn’t finish like we wanted. But we had great time learning

and playing with one another. And that was important this week.” The South took an early lead in the second game with a two-

run first inning but the North would pull within one run in the fifth inning before securing the game in the seventh inning with two runs.

South All-Stars split softball double-header By EVAN DUDLEY Sports Editor

The North All-Star softball team doubled up the South squad, 12-6, in the first game of a doubleheader July 18 at Lagoon Park in Montgomery, but the South rallied in the second game and trounced the North All-Stars 11-1. The split was the lone exception to the North’s dominating performance during the AHSAA Summer Conference and All-Star Week. The North holds a 25-10-3 lead in the series following the doubleheader. Alexis Austin of Wetumpka High School went 3-5 with

two runs and an RBI for the series. Austin was a strong contributor and learned valuable lessons through the experience. “We felt good but got ahead of ourselves in the first game,” said Austin. “We learned that lesson quickly and responded with a strong performance in the second game. Those few days were a lot of fun and I really learned a lot from it.” The South grabbed a quick lead in the first game with a three-run first inning and led 4-1 heading into the third inning. The North squad found their swing in the third inning, plating eight

runs and adding another three in the fourth inning. The South managed to score two additional runs but was unable to overcome the deficit. The second game belonged to the South squad, who took a 7-1 led after three innings and quelled any hope of a rally from the North squad. The South would post up four more runs in the latter innings and shut out the North the final four innings. Lauren Rase of Rehobeth was named South MVP after going 3-3 with four RBIs in the second game. Northside’s Evan Dudley / The Herald Riley Honeycutt went 3-4 Wetumpka’s Alexis Austin makes a play with two runs and was named from shortstop during the AHSAA NorthNorth MVP. South All-Star softball double-header.

PAGE A8 • JULY 26, 2017

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

THE WETUMPKA HERALD

Market Shoppes holds ribbon-cutting ceremony

David Granger / The Herald

Rusty Russell, Katie Martin Russell, Pam Martin, Mayor Jerry WIllis, TIffany Robinson, Lynn Weldon, Steve Gantt, Dennis Fain and Gerry Purcell stand out front of Market Shoppes at its recent ribbon-cutting ceremony. Prior to the ceremony, Katie Russell spoke of her excitement in being part of downtown’s revitalization efforts by bringing 30 unique vendors featuring a variety of products to the location, which already boasts a waiting list.

Artists

continued from page 1

Scarborough said. “It’s fascinating to me.” Edstrom said she started making her jewelry in 2001. She was the first local artist to be profiled in Jule Magazine, the magazine of Auburn University’s Jule Collins Smith Museum of Art. Her jewelry is sold in the museum shop as well as

at Terry Furuta Designs and Studio 305 Salon in Atlanta. Others along the Riverwalk were selling hand-painted signs, honey and other bee-related products, wind chimes, children’s clothing, photography, soaps, pottery, carvings and more.

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Commission documents on index cards with small microfilm images and written messages are to be put into a format to go online. At roughly 35 cents an image he said it would cost up to $19,100 to complete. He said it was only a part of the project whose total goal was to digitize all of Elmore County’s documents and records. All in all, he said, it should take about three months to complete. Enslen also announced new online services his office provides through their ongoing online efforts. “I asked them to do something for our citizens who want to just get a copy of their deed at home for instance and I now have that setup where you can go on, there’s no charge to access the site, there’s no charge to review the entire index. If you see a document you want, like your marriage certificate or the deed to your house, then you find that in the index, you view just that say two-page

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document and its 75 cents viewing fee for those two pages,” said Enslen. The copy cost, he said, is a dollar per page, which he said would cost $1.50 more to do at home, but would save a trip to the courthouse. The website provided in his news release is https://psearch. sysconoline.com/ search/101. Enslen’s “Digitizing Project” proposal was approved. Enslen said, “History is important to all of us whether we recognize it or not, and one of my major legal duties is to preserve our public documents and I hope to be that we are the first county in the State of Alabama that has every document in the probate office digitized.” County Commissioner Earl Reeves led the discussion on the item entitled, “Discuss amending the applicable provisions of the Elmore County Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual regarding General Leave Without Pay.” Essentially the

discussion revolved around amending the personnel policy on leave without pay so that if it were to be taken it would have to be OK’d through a department head. Reeves said, as employers, they give annual leave, sick leave and family medical leave. “What we want to do here is to make sure that all our employees use the leave that is granted to them before they can use leave without pay,” said Reeves. Mercer spoke on the issue saying the policy book was dated and likely in need of revision. “Chairman, as we all know we inherited this commission, inherited a personnel policy procedure manual that was last revised 16 years ago,” said Mercer. “So us needing to make a revision to this is not surprising considering the age of our personnel policy.” After talking with the county attorney, Reeves said he wanted the employees to have time to review the revised document whatever it may

be. “What we need to address as a commission is that we acknowledge there are certain extenuating circumstances in people’s lives, but there needs to be a procedure by which they get that approved with a department head prior to considering anything like this,” said Stubbs. “This is not a just temp agency. We don’t just work when we feel like working. If we have days granted to us then we can use those days as we see fit but when an individual chooses to take leave without pay it puts a burden on all of their coworkers who are there and are fulfilling their responsibilities.” He said they should allow the attorney to draft something between now and next meeting and also give the employees time to consider the new rules. Also at the meeting, Jimmy Harris was appointed to the MidSouth RC&D Council and a resolution for a one-time bonus for retirees from the Retirement Systems of Alabama was approved.

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CommunityCalendar NOW – July 27

The Wetumpka Public Library will begin its summer series for students entering grades 7 – 12. Movies will be shown weekly on Thursdays at 1 p.m. at the library. For more information call (334) 567-1308 or visit www.wetumpkalibrary.com

NOW-Sept. 11

The Kelly Fitzpatrick Memorial Gallery Presents “A Heritage of Art and Design” featuring the Troy University Department of Art and Design. The exhibition is open daily Monday – Friday from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. A reception will be held Tuesday, June 27 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

July 28

“Wags N Whiskers,” the Humane Society of Elmore County’s silent auction will be from 6 p.m. – 10 p.m. at 100 River Oaks Drive. Tickets are $25 per person. Items for auction can be viewed at www.elmorehumane.org.

July 30 – Aug. 1

Holtville Riverside Baptist Church will Hold Revival services beginning at 6 p.m. on Sunday evening and 7 p.m. Monday – Wednesday evening. Bro. Cory Dennis, pastor of Beulah Baptist Church, will be bringing the message each evening. For more information call (334) 296-2183.

July 31

The Wetumpka Tea Party is hosting a “Top-Three” U.S. Senate Forum Monday, July 31, at 6:30 p.m. at the Wetumpka Civic Center for the candidates who have polled over 20% by professional polling firms. Those candidates are: Rep. Mo Brooks, Judge Roy Moore and Sen. Luther Strange. Because this forum showcases only three candidates there will be more time for the candidates to delve deeper into their policy positions and their past experiences serving the people of Alabama. Montgomery talk radio host Dan Morris will be the

moderator. There will be a straw poll at the end of the forum. This free event is for educational purposes and is not an endorsement for any candidate.

Aug. 14

Aug. 4 The Elmore County Homeschool Organization will host a free event open to families from any county in the area that are currently homeschooling or are interested in homeschooling. Light refreshments will be served. Children are welcome; there will be activity tables for their enjoyment. For more information visit www.onlineecho.com/openhouse2017.

Aug. 6 The Kempter Family, a vintage gospel band, will be in concert at Rushenville Baptist Church in Eclectic at 6 p.m.

Aug. 7 Join the Elmore County BAMA Chapter at 6 p.m. on at Coaches Corner in Wetumpka as we kick-off the fall season with Ken Gaddy, director of the Paul W. Bryant Museum. Space is limited so RSVP by July 28 at elcobama@gmail.com or by calling 334-207-5050. Admission is $20 for members and $25 for non-members (memberships are payable at the door $15 Single; $25 Family) and includes a tailgate spread, plenty of tea and water, door prizes and a cash bar.

Aug. 12 Holtville Riverside Baptist Church will have a gospel singing at 6 p.m. The singers will be Holy Destiny and Justified. For more information please call (334) 2962183. Refreshments will follow. • Join us for our first ever More for Moms Expo! We are planning a fun and informative day for River Region moms that will feature WSFA 12 News personalities, guest speakers, vendors, fashion show, goody bags and more. For more information visit our Facebook page, More for Moms Expo.

The Elmore County Auburn Club will hold its annual meeting at the Wetumpka Civic Center. Doors will open at 6 p.m. and a meal catered by Smokin’ S BarB-Que served at 6:30 Alumni, students and friends are invited to attend this football kick-off meeting that will feature Auburn Head Baseball Coach Butch Thompson and Aubie, Auburn’s award winning mascot. Coach Thompson will speak on the AU baseball program and Dudley Perry, club president, will update the members on club activities for the coming year. Tickets for adults are $30, if purchased by Aug. 8th. Children 5 and under are free and 6 to 12 will cost $15. Tickets may be purchased in advance at Collier Ford or by mailing a check or money order to Elmore County Auburn Club c/o J. Martin, 328 Jordan Beach Road, Wetumpka, AL 36092. On Aug. 9, the adult ticket price will increase to $35. There will be some tickets available at the door at the higher cost. Participants will enjoy a silent auction to benefit the Club’s Scholarship Fund and door prizes. Since the late 70s the Elmore County Auburn Club has been providing at least one scholarship to a deserving Elmore County student. Last year two students were provided with $1,000 tuition checks.

Aug. 26

En Fuego is a free Christian music festival, which takes place every year in a beautiful natural amphitheater in central Alabama located at 2701 County Road 23 in Verbena from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m. You will hear some of the best bands in the industry for free. Did you catch that? For free! If you have any questions, please call us at (205) 516-0467.

Aug. 27

Ridge Church is moving! We will begin meeting at Wetumpka High School to expand and better accommodate our community.

THE WETUMPKA HERALD

Submit calendar items: Participate in your Herald

and Observer by calling 256-234-4281, faxing them to 256-2346550, sending your event to the.editor@thewetumpkaherald.com or logging on to http://www.thewetumpkaherald.com/.

Services begin at 9 a.m. and 10:45 a.m.

Sept. 30

The Titus Bluegrass Festival ill be held from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. at the Titus Community Center. There will be live bluegrass music, arts & crafts vendors, food, inflatables for kids, and more.

Oct. 5

Adullam House will host its 3rd annual Charity Golf Tournament at the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail in Prattville. Registration begins at 8 a.m., tee-off will be at 9 a.m., followed by lunch. Proceeds from this tournament will fund the much needed expansion at Adullam House Christian Academy. There are a variety of sponsorship levels, or you may simply put together and team and play. Fees are $150 per player and $600 for a foursome. This will include golf, contests, lunch, and a chance and many great door prizes. For more information please visit our website at www. adullamhouse.org/golf.

ONGOING EVENTS

• 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 Street in Wetumpka. • The DAC Foundation exhibit located at 219 Hill Street in downtown Wetumpka will be open each Monday and Wednesday from 10:00 am until 12:00 pm. Our first exhibit at this location, features work by Dixie Art Colony artists Arthur Stewart, Kelly Fitzpatrick, Shiney Moon, Lousie Everton, Karl Wolfe, Billy Wilson and Genevieve Sutherland. Some of the work has never been publicly shown. For information visit DixieArtColony.org or follow 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 hangups. 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 Street. 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. • Griefshare Ministry meets on Tuesday nights at 6:30 p.m. This ministry helps assist those who have lost loved ones and struggling how to deal with their grief. Contact the church office for more information 334-567-4729 or visit www.calvarybaptistwetumpka.org.

Gospel music hall-of-famers The Nelons headline concert to benefit food pantry By DAVID GRANGER Managing Editor

The Elmore County Food Pantry will benefit from gospel music concert by Multi-Dove Award winning and Grammy nominated recording artists The Nelons along with two other acts, set for Saturday, July 29, at 6 p.m. at the Wetumpka First Baptist Church, located at 205 W. Bridge St. “This and the Taste of Elmore County are our two major fundraisers of the year,” said Larry Dozier, vice president of the food pantry board. “We want people to understand that every penny raised through this concert goes to serve the hungry of Elmore County. For every ticket purchased for $20, we can 110 pounds of food. “The food pantry gets no public assistance. We are an all-volunteer organization except for one paid employee. Our director, Kathy Moseley, is paid a very small salary.” In addition to the Nelons, Other performers at the concert will be The Dennis Family and the Spoken For Trio. The musical ministry of The Nelons was formed after family patriarch Rex Nelon had already enjoyed

a spectacular 20-year career as a member of the legendary LeFevres. Recently inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame, the Nelons have been singing hit songs, bridging the traditional sounds of Gospel music with contemporary influences and inspiring listeners of all ages for decades. The group has enjoyed success as a part of the prestigious Gaither Homecoming Tour and Video Series and continues to bridge generational gaps. Joining the Nelons for this exciting event will also be talented, female vocalist, Amber Nelon Thompson. Thompson travels full-time with The Nelons, but has also established a solo career with multiple releases. She was named as the youngest Dove Award nominee in history by the Gospel Music Association. The event promises to be a night that will be enjoyed by all Gospel music lovers. “It will be a lot of fun,” states Kelly Nelon Clark. “Not only will we be singing the classics that have stood the test of time, we will also share many wonderful and interesting stories behind these timeless songs.” Appearing with the

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Nelons will be Millbrook’s The Dennis Family, made up of sisters Paulette Dennis-Pynes and Millie Dennis-Brown and Paulette’s daughter Denise Pynes-Weldon. In 1998, Weldon was voted lead singer of the year by the Central Alabama Southern Gospel Music Association. That same year, Brown was voted tenor of the year. Rounding out the night’s lineup will be Prattville’s Spoken For Trio, made up of Robin Submitted / The Herald and Jay Simpson and Multiple Dove Award-winning and Grammy-nominated artists Michael English & The Nelons will Patricia Hudman. The headline a singing to benefit the Elmore County Food Pantry on Saturday, July 29, at Wetumpaward-winning trio has ka’s First Baptist Church. been singing Gospel music in the southeast for Pantry at 334-567-5191 or on the concert or tickets Vision, The Perrys and 17 years and has shared visit www.elmorecountyfor the event, contact the The Florida Boys. the stage with the likes of foodpantry.net. Elmore County Food For more information The Gold City, Greater

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Co ngratulatio ns!

2017-2018 FYI

FYI

2017

Cover

Your guide to all things Elmore County Annual publication of The Wetumpka Herald, The Tallassee Tribune and The Eclectic Observer

2017-2018 FYI

Welcome HOME

lmore County offers a warm “welcome home” to long-time residents and newcomers alike. Although the area is among the fastest-growing in the state, it retains its friendly, small town character – a trait treasured and nurtured by local citizens,organizations and officials.

The county is a mixture of larger cities, small towns, communities, rural areas, lakeside neighborhoods and more. Residents can enjoy atmospheres ranging from bustling venues packed with people to quiet retreats where nature reigns. These pages contain a wealth of information about the many facets of Elmore County. Readers can find interesting statistics about the area, learn where to go for a number of vital services and check on how to contact various government officials. In addition, there is information describing local attractions, annual events, restaurants,cultural offerings, parks, recreation possibilities and more. This publication is intended to be a useful guide readers can keep and use as a reference throughout the year.

2nd Annual Dam Century Bike Ride Come join us, Saturday, September 23, 2017 for the 2nd Annual Bike Ride! You can choose from three different challenging routes: 18+ miles, 60+ miles or 100+ miles

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Registration at 6:30 am Course opens at 7:00 am Course Closed at 5:00 pm People can register on the Event on the Facebook page or on Chamber website

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2017-2018 FYI

FYI

Your guide to all things Elmore County

Table of Contents On the cover: Wind Creek Wetumpka Photo by Mitch Sneed

Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. Staff

Welcome 3 Places of interest 6 Annual events 10 Area education 15

Government 18 Industry 19 Emergency services 20 Making connections 21

CHAIRMAN Kenneth Boone PUBLISHER Steve Baker EDITOR Mitch Sneed

MANAGING EDITOR David Granger CIRCULATION David Kendrick BOOKKEEPER Angela Mullins EDITORIAL STAFF Evan Dudley Corey Arwood COMPOSING STAFF Audra Spears Darlene Johnson Hallie Holloway Santana Wood PRODUCTION MANAGER Lee Champion ADVERTISING STAFF Marilyn Hawkins Kat Raiford

2017-2018 FYI

LINVILLE MEMORIAL

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2017-2018 FYI

Places of INTEREST Gene Jones Antique Tractor Museum The museum, located at 3121 Park Court in Millbrook, houses more than 30 antique tractors of various makes and models along with tools, horse/mule pull plows and one of the largest collections in the Southeast of Indian artifacts from Alabama. Admission is free, but by appointment only. Call 334-285-1700 for an appointment.

Fort Toulouse/ Jackson Park Fort Toulouse/Jackson Park is the premiere tourist attraction not only in Wetumpka, but in Elmore County. Park events bring about 135,000 people to the city each year. The park site has been inhabited periodically since approximately 5000 B.C. when nomadic bands of Native American hunters traversed the area. In about 400 A.D., large hunting base camps were located there. Several mounds topped by ceremonial temples were built at the fort about 1000 A.D. The first European to explore the area was Hernando DeSoto. More than a century later – in 1717 – a French fort was constructed at the confluence of the Coosa and Tallapoosa rivers and named Fort Toulouse. The fort was rebuilt by the French in 1751 – the cost accounting for half of France’s military budget for the entire Louisiana colony. After the French lost possession of the base in 1763 it fell into ruins. Andrew Jackson and the Tennessee Militia arrived in the area during the Creek Indian War. In April 1814 he visited the site and planned construction of a new fort. He returned in June to the completed fortification, by then named Fort Jackson. The fort became the first county seat of Montgomery County, and Jackson Town rose nearby. Residents later began to move downriver to Montgomery, and both the town and fort were abandoned by 1819. The Alabama Historical Commission gained possession of the park property in 1971, and archaeologists began excavations. More recently, 250 acres were purchased by the Forever Wild Program to be operated in conjunction with the park. The site of old Fort Jackson Town and Jackson Camp are within this acreage. Indications of prehistoric Indian mounds and village sites have also been discovered there. Today large portions of the forts have been reconstructed; and reenactments are held on a regular basis. Other features of the park include a campground with RV hook-ups, hiking trails, an arboretum, picnic areas, a boat ramp and a visitors center with museum and gift shop.

Jasmine Hill Gardens Jasmine Hill Gardens and Outdoor Museum is one of the oldest gardens in Alabama, and was originally the home of Ben and Mary Fitzpatrick. The couple transformed the Elmore County hillside with plantings and with Greek statuary they collected during their travels abroad. The more than 80-year-old gardens are home to an abundance of flowering trees, shrubs, bulbs and plants. A visitors center – in the guise of a full-scale replica of the Temple of Hera as it probably appeared during the first Olympic games in 776 B.C. – is also located on the grounds. In

addition, a reproduction of the temple’s ruins as they appear today is one of the site’s attractions. Jasmine Hill’s 20-acre gardens were closed to daily traffic in October 2002, but are now reopened to visitors for a limited period at the height of the blooming season each year.

Alabama Nature Center at Lanark Lanark Plantation in Millbrook is home to the Alabama Wildlife Federation. AWF’s Alabama Nature Center includes five miles of boardwalk hiking trails through the woods on the property. The trails are open to the public the third weekend of each month, and school groups can schedule special field trips to the site. Lanark was originally the home of Isabel and Wiley Hill. The couple moved there as newlyweds in 1948 and built a three-room house in a cornfield across a stream from the original antebellum home. They spent the next 50 years enlarging their house and creating the surrounding 30-acre garden. Wiley Hill died in 1995, and Isabel continued to care for their home and gardens until her death in 2001, when she left both houses, the gardens and the surrounding 300-plus acres to the Alabama Wildlife Federation. The original Lanark home began as a log cabin built by Peyton Bibb in 1827. The house passed to the Hill family, who continued to enlarge and expand the original building. In the late 1920s, Dr. Charles Thigpen, Wiley Hill’s grandfather, purchased the property. It was then passed down through the generations to Wiley and Isabel, who tended, improved and expanded Lanark, bringing it to its present state. The gardens represent a lifelong labor of love by the Hills. Centered on a formal lawn, Lanark’s gardens include wooded paths, streams, lakes, lawns and bridges. The gardens were designed as a year-round presentation, producing flowering fruit trees and daffodils in spring, the blooms of thousands of hydrangea bushes in summer, the colors of maples and sycamores in fall and a show of camellias and evergreens in winter. Some of the other plants at Lanark include narcissus, oak leaf hydrangeas, azaleas, redbuds, dogwoods, pansies, trillium, tulips, day lilies, French hydrangeas, tree hydrangeas, ginger lilies, wild azaleas, tall phlox, wood phlox, ornamental cherry and peach trees, forsythia, magnolias (including Japanese and big leaf), tea olives, crape myrtles, Stokes asters, black-eyed susans, Mexican sage, hyacinth bean vine, jasmines, snowball bushes, tuberoses and numerous wild flowers.

Movie Memories Wetumpka, Millbrook and Tallassee all provided “on-location” filming sites for the 2003 major motion picture, “Big Fish.” Visitors to the area can easily recognize the Bibb Graves Bridge, the “Bloom house,” the historic First National Bank building, the Old Elmore County Courthouse and other locales appearing in “Big Fish.” Downtown Wetumpka was also the site for filming of two other modern movies – “The Rosa Parks Story,” a CBS made-for-TV movie shot in 2001 and “The Grass Harp,” filmed in late 1994 and early 1995. In addition, “Flames, The Red Robber” – an educational film commissioned by the American Farm Bureau Federation – was shot in and around Wetumpka in 1929. “The Elms,” an 1830’s-vintage home in Coosada, was the filming site for several scenes in the 2004 movie, “Heaven’s Fall.” The film concentrates on the 1933 retrial of the Scottsboro Boys.

2017-2018 FYI

Wind Creek Wetumpka Wind Creek Wetumpka, operated by the Poarch Band of Creek Indians, is located at 100 River Oaks Drive and offers electronic bingo (Class II gaming). The facility is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and attracts more than a thousand customers per day. Work on the complex began in September 2001 when bulldozers moved in to clear tribal property located adjacent to River Oaks subdivision. Two months later (Nov. 24), the doors of the new video bingo hall opened to the public. Another modular unit was added soon after the bingo hall opened. In January 2002, several additional modular buildings were installed to house traditional table bingo, which was later discontinued. In early March 2005, a more permanent building was opened to house the operation. Half of a parking deck was also been completed that is intended to eventually be part of a full-scale casino complex (Class III gaming). A major expansion at the site was completed in October 2008, bringing the total number of electronic bingo machines to 900 in approximately 39,000 square feet. The addition also added a 252-seat buffet and a bandstand for live entertainment. Construction of a 20-story hotel tower and 90,000 square foot gaming area, several restaurants and expanded parking deck began in July 2012. All parts of the new facility are expected to be open by January 2014.

Tallassee Confederate Armory When the Confederacy feared for the security of Richmond, Va., a decision was made to relocate Richmond Carbine to the old 1844 cotton mill located in Tallassee. The site is the only Confederate armory to survive the Civil War intact. Tours of the armory can be arranged by appointment only. Every fall, reenactors stage the “Battles for the Armory” attracting numerous visitors.

The Trophy Room Located in Tallassee, The Trophy Room features animal dis-

plays from Africa. It provides an opportunity to study large cats, gazelles and other animals in a dramatic exhibit environment.

Wetumpka Impact Crater In 1999, after more than a century of speculation, the Wetumpka area was confirmed as the site of a meteor strike. The first information about the site was recorded by state geologist E.A. Smith in August 1891, who noted the chaotic nature of the rock protrusion now known as Bald Knob. Maps prepared in the 1950s by H.D. Earle, L.C. Conant, and C.W. Drennan described the area as “structurally disturbed.” In the 1970s, a hypothesis attributing the cause of the formation to a meteor strike was put forward by Tuscaloosa geologist Dr. Tony Neathery. In 1997, Auburn University geologist Dr. David T. King Jr. began investigating the area and collecting evidence to prove Wetumpka an impact crater site. His research led to confirmation that the 5-mile-wide, horseshoe-shaped ridge of hills is the result of a meteor that impacted the area more than 80 million years ago. It is one of only a handful of such formations in the world. Guided crater walks and an evening lecture are conducted yearly and sponsored by the Trail of Legends Association. The members of the Wetumpka Impact Crater Commission have worked for about a dozen years toward a dream of bringing the crater to prominence. Now, partnered by the Elmore County Economic Development Authority and the City of Wetumpka, that vision is closer to becoming a reality. The proposed Alabama Impact Crater and Science Center is in its second phase of development. Phase one – a master plan created at the commission’s direction – was unveiled in January 2009. Funding for phase two has been underwritten by the Wetumpka City Council. The overall plan was created with the center located on city property on U.S. Highway 231 that once served as a state rest area. Featured in the master plan are: •An interpretative center to include a museum, research facility, gift shop, snack bar, cafe, theater and ballroom. •An elevated observatory. •An outdoor classroom, amphitheater, fragment garden, timeline, ocean and river features, dormitories, light show, interpretative play area, impact fountain, meteor sculpture, core cylinder feature, pavilions/ shelters, viewing platforms, walking trails, wayfinding and several parking areas.

2017-2018 FYI Entertaining, Educating and Reaching Out to the Community Since 1980 “If you can’t make it better-Laugh at It!” Join us for a comic look at one of our country’s most beloved voices, who captured the frustrations of her generation by asking, “If life is a bowl of cherries, what am I doing in the pits?” Discover the story behind America’s beloved humorist who championed women’s lives with wit that sprang from the most unexpected place of all – the truth.

Assemble the River Region’s best singers, storytellers and musicians and toss in a mix of tunes from Broadway to Bluegrass and you have a delicious evening at the Depot Theatre. Don’t miss this special event that beneﬁts the Depot Player’s capital campaign. Help us continue to entertain, educate and reach out to our community and enjoy music and refreshments!

WETUMPKA DEPOT PLAYERS 300 S Main Street in Historic Downtown Wetumpka

Tickets: 334-868-1440 | wetumpkadepot.com

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4700 US Highway 231, Wetumpka, AL

334/567-3811 2557 Cobbs Ford Road, Prattville, AL

334/285-9591

109 Company Street, Suite 110 | Wetumpka, AL | 334-478-4970

GASSETT Funeral Home and Crematory 204 East Charles Avenue - P.O.Box 54 Wetumpka, Alabama 36092

FUNERALS • CREMATIONS • PRE-ARRANGEMENTS • MONUMENTS Since 1978 Gassett Funeral Home has prided itself on offering the Ànest of services and facilities to the families of the River Region. Built upon the foundation of superior service; we’ve upheld that commitment for nearly 40 years as the areas only continuously family owned/ operated funeral home. And now, as Wetumpka’s only on-site crematory.

334-567-8433 www.gassettfuneralhome.net

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2017-2018 FYI

Drive a Little, Save a Lot.

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New & Used Vehicles Sales, Service & Parts

334-283-6815 www.tallasseeautomotive.com 1618 Gilmer Avenue, Tallassee, AL 36078

2017-2018 FYI

Annual EVENTS New Year’s Eve A special New Year’s Eve celebration has been held in Wetumpka since 1993. The program features fireworks, torchbearers, recognition of United States military personnel, luminaries and a countdown to the new year. The centerpiece of the event is an “asteroid drop,” commemorating the meteor strike at Wetumpka 83 million years ago. A lighted ball and a digital countdown clock are also part of the celebration. Activities are held on the square at the Old Elmore County Courthouse downtown. The event is geared toward families.

MLK Parade A parade is held every January in Wetumpka each year to honor legendary civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Impact Crater Tours The Trail of Legends Association hosts a crater lecture and crater tours in Wetumpka during late winter each year. The lecture offers attendees an opportunity to learn about the five-mile wide crater resulting from a meteor impact about 83 million years ago. Participants in the tours have an opportunity to visit sites along the crater rim.

Mardi Gras Parades The Millbrook Revelers host a Mardi Gras parade each year, which travels along Main Street. Vendor booths are also open during the event. The group’s first Mardi Gras celebration was held in 2006. In Wetumpka, the Order of Cimarrón hosted its first Mardi Gras Parade in 2013.

Arbor Day Arbor Day is recognized in Wetumpka each year with a formal tree planting and distribution of free seedlings. On Arbor Day, the city also celebrates its status as a Tree City USA. Tallassee, also a Tree City USA, celebrates Arbor Day in February and attendees receive free seedlings. The day is also recognized annually in Millbrook with a tree planting ceremony.

Annual Easter Egg Hunts Easter egg hunts are held in Eclectic, Elmore, Millbrook and Wetumpka each spring. Events are sponsored by various groups in the different communities.

Confederate Heritage Celebration The Elmore County Confederate History and Heritage Celebration is held in April each year. Highlights of the day include speakers, music, vendors, food, door prizes and participants in period dress. The event attracts about 500 participants annually.

Historic Tour of Wetumpka

The Elmore County Historical Society and Museum hosts a tour of various historic homes, buildings and gardens in Wetumpka each spring with different locations featured every year.

Relay for Life Relay for Life events are held annually in Millbrook, Tallassee and Wetumpka. The fundraiser attracts hundreds of people to Hohenberg Field in Wetumpka, Village Green Park in Millbrook and J.E. “Hot” O’Brien Stadium in Tallassee. Teams enjoy music, fellowship, entertainment and food while collecting money to aid in the battle against cancer.

Earth Day The City of Wetumpka and the Wetumpka Pride organization host an Earth Day celebration each spring. Activities include an old-fashioned plant swap, a recycled art contest, door prizes, refreshments, free compost and more. Local master gardeners assist attendees with plant selection and identification, and answer gardening questions. Attendees are also encouraged to bring in recyclable materials during the event. Funds generated during Earth Day are used in support of local beautification projects. The celebration is held at the Wetumpka Recycling Center. Tallassee’s annual Earth Day event centers on “spring cleaning” and recycling. Volunteers participate on litter teams for general cleanup. Residents are encouraged to clean up around their homes and businesses and recycle various items. A variety of tree seedlings are also given away. To conclude the event, an outdoor movie is shown “on the green” at city hall. Families bring blankets, lawn chairs and snacks to enjoy the film.

2017-2018 FYI

Spring Fly-In Each spring, Experimental Aircraft Association 822 hosts a fly-in at the Wetumpka Municipal Airport. The event includes a Young Eagles program that offers free airplane rides to youth ages eight to 17. Displays of antique aircraft, home-built aircraft and exmilitary aircraft are also typically part of the day’s offerings.

Antique Tractor Show and Pull This event is sponsored by the Elmore Volunteer Fire Department and the Southern Antique Iron Association each May in Elmore. Antique tractors pull in 10 or more divisions. As part of the festivities, the Elmore VFD sponsors a non-sanctioned barbecue cookoff featuring ribs, Boston butts, briskets and chicken.

Patriotic Celebrations In addition to Independence Day, other patriotic holidays are recognized with Wetumpka observances – Memorial Day, Flag Day, POW/MIA Day, Veterans Day and Pearl Harbor Day. Memorial Day and Veterans Day ceremonies are held at local cemeteries, and feature guest speakers, recognition of military personnel past and present and patriotic music. On Flag Day, two flag disposal ceremonies are held – one conducted by local Boy Scouts and the other by members of Smith-Leonard VFW Post 4572. Pearl Harbor Day is commemorated with the dropping of a wreath and flowers into the Coosa River, as well as remarks in keeping with the occasion. The Town of Eclectic holds its annual Veterans Day Ceremony at Veterans Park on Highway 63. A guest speaker is featured, along with special music. Tallassee holds events in recognition of Memorial Day and Veterans Day each year. The local VFW organizes a parade in November on a date close to Veterans Day.

Farmers Markets Farmers markets are currently held in Tallassee, Wetumpka and Millbrook weekly. The markets offer a variety of locally grown produce, as well as other activities.

Independence Day Events The Fourth of July brings family fun to Wetumpka annually. A concert and dance and fireworks show are included in the celebration. Events center in downtown Wetumpka. A fireworks display is also held on Lake Jordan. In Emerald Mountain, a neighborhood Fourth of July parade is held each year, featuring decorated golf carts, bicycles, wagons and more, followed by a brunch at the clubhouse. Independence Day is celebrated in the Kowaliga area of Lake Martin with Russell Marine’s annual Fourth of July boat parade in the morning and Russell Lands’ Fourth of July Blast concert and fireworks display in the evening. In Millbrook, an annual barbecue and camp stew sale is held by the Millbrook Men’s Club with proceeds benefiting that community.

River and Blues The inaugural River and Blues Music and Arts Festival was held in Wetumpka in July 2012 and attracted about 5,000 attendees. Approximately 10,000 attended the second annual event. The free festival offers around a dozen bands on two stages, arts and crafts, food vendors, children’s activities and more.

Tallassee Summer Street Dance

The Talisi Historic Preservation Society sponsors a street dance held in downtown Tallassee each July. The concert is held in the Tallassee Historic District, near the Fitzpatrick Bridge. Proceeds from concert ticket sales benefit the Talisi Historic Preservation Society in its efforts to save the Confederate Armory and Old Mill.

Summerfest

Every fourth Friday of July the City of Millbrook hosts a special “thank you event” for residents — Summerfest. It features live music, concessions, inflatables for the children and a fireworks finale around 9 p.m. at The Pines Golf Course.

Wags and Whiskers

Each year in late July, the Humane Society of Elmore County hosts a reception and silent auction as a fundraiser to help support the society’s efforts on behalf of homeless animals.

Business Expos

The Millbrook Area Chamber of Commerce and Wetumpka Area Chamber of Commerce each host a business expo each year to provide an opportunity for the general public to become better acquainted with the goods and services offered by their local business communities.

Lions Club Barbecue

Annually, on the Saturday prior to Labor Day, Wetumpka Lions Club members hold a barbecue sale. Proceeds are used to support Southeastern Guide Dogs and other Lions Club projects.

Taste of Eclectic

The Eclectic the Beautiful group sponsors the annual Taste of Eclectic each September. Restaurants and food vendors from the surrounding area set up their favorite food items in the Elmore County High School lunchroom for residents to sample.

Titus Bluegrass Festival This festival is held annually on the last Saturday of September at the Titus Community Center on Highway 29. The day offers several bluegrass bands, barbecue and drinks, children’s activities and many vendors.

Bark in the Park Each September, the Elmore County Humane Society invites dogs and their owners to Fort Toulouse/Jackson Park for doggie games, contests and fun. Adoptable pets and vendors are also part of the event.

Tallassee Trade Day Trade Day, sponsored by the Tallassee Chamber of Commerce, is held each fall on historic King Street in Tallassee. More than 150 vendors participate, offering arts, crafts, clothing and food. Singers and dancers provide entertainment. T here are also inflatables, pony rides, train rides, clowns and dunking booths.

An Eclectic Christmas Tours are held several evenings as about 150 adults and youth reenact the Christmas story, from the angels’ appearance to shepherds announcing Christ’s birth, through downtown Bethlehem and Jesus’ birth in a manger. This is an outdoor walk-through drama.

Christmas on the Coosa Wetumpka’s largest event of the year – Christmas on the Coosa – is held on the second Saturday of December each year. The event was first officially celebrated as Christmas on the Coosa in 1984; but a street parade was initially held in 1972, and the inaugural boat parade appeared on the river in 1980. Approximately 25,000 visitors gather in downtown Wetumpka each year for the daylong family event. Activities during the festival include a large arts and crafts show, concessions, entertainment, children’s activities, vintage car show and a quilt show. Highlights of the celebration are the street parade and a spectacular fireworks grand finale.

2017-2018 FYI

We are happy to announce that

Elizabeth B. Keeble, M.D. will be joining the practice in August, 2017. Dr. Keeble was born in Opelika AL but raised in Lanett, AL. She attended Huntingdon College in Montgomery where she obtained a bachelor’s of art degree in Biology and graduated Cum Laude. She then attended the University of South Alabama in Mobile and obtained her Doctor of Medicine. She completed an internship at Baptist Health System in Birmingham and her ophthalmology residency at the University of Alabama in Birmingham. APPOINTMENTS FOR DR. KEEBLE CAN BE SCHEDULED IMMEDIATELY BY PHONING 334-277-9111 OR 1-800-255-3012. VISIT US AT 8007 US HIGHWAY 231, WETUMPKA, AL • 334-567-9111 OR 4255 CARMICHAEL COURT NORTH, MONTGOMERY, AL • 334-277-9111

2017-2018 FYI

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2017-2018 FYI

Annual EVENTS

Coosa River Challenge Adventure Race In October, the Coosa River Challenge Adventure Race – a triathlon-style event – attracts hundreds of competitors. The route alternates between a mountain biking or foot face on the Swayback Bridge Trail near Lake Jordan. Participants then transition to canoes at Jordan Dam and paddle four miles to Corn Creek Park. The final leg of the race is a run ending at Gold Star Park in downtown Wetumpka. The race is sponsored by the City of Wetumpka, the Trail of Legends Association (TOLA) and the Coosa River Paddling Club.

Alabama Cotton Festival and Rook Tourney The Town of Eclectic holds its Cotton Festival annually. This year the event is scheduled for October. The festival is held in downtown and includes arts, crafts, entertainment and food. The Alabama Rook Tournament is held in conjunction with the Cotton Festival.

Halloween Hauntings

Every year several Halloween events are held in the county, including the Titus Maze of Terror, the Camp Chandler Halloween Carnival and the Tallassee Haunted Library Tour.

Wetumpka Cemetery Tours The Elmore County Historical Society hosts tours of the Wetumpka City Cemetery in the fall. Tours feature actors dressed in period clothing who share the stories of selected individuals who were laid to rest in the cemetery.

Historic Reenactments Reenactments are staged at Fort Toulouse/Jackson State Historic Site year-round. The largest annual undertaking at the park is Alabama Frontier Days, held in early November. Detailed reenactments recreate the past as participants portray Indians, soldiers, settlers and craftsmen. Thousands of school children from Alabama and other states attend the event. Every April, the forts are the site of the annual French and Indian War Encampment. During the two-day event, reenactors represent various parties involved in the war – French, Spanish, British and Native Americans – as they prepared for and battled in the “War for Empire” in the mid-18th century (1755-1763). In Tallassee, reenactors stage the “Battles for the Armory” every fall. The Civil War era reenactment features set battles each of the two days of the event. Numerous visitors attend the historic portrayals. A period ball is also part of the weekend activities.

Christmas Parades and Tree Lightings Tree lighting ceremonies are held in Elmore, Millbrook, Tallassee and Wetumpka separate from other holiday events. The tree lightings feature music and concessions. Eclectic’s tree lighting is held in conjunction with the community’s annual Christmas parade. Millbrook, Tallassee and Wetumpka also hold yearly Christmas parades. Details of Wetumpka’s parade and related events are included in a separate listing.

2017-2018 FYI

Area EDUCATION Elmore County School System

Airport Road Intermediate, 3-4 384 Blackmon Dr., Coosada 334-285-2115 airportroad.eci.schoolinsites.com

The Elmore County School System has an enrollment of more than 11,000. The system is district accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Distance learning was introduced in 1993, making Elmore County the first in the state to use the system. Internet access is available in every school library, computer labs and classrooms. Accelerated Reader is used in all schools, and advanced placement and dual enrollment courses are available to high school students. Several schools participate in the Alabama Math, Science and Technology Initiative. The systemâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website is www. elmoreco.com.

Millbrook Middle/Junior High, 5-8 4228 Chapman Rd., Millbrook 334-285-2100 millbrook.ecm.schoolinsites.com

Deatsville Holtville Elementary, K-4 287 Whatley Rd., Deatsville 334-569-2925 holtville.ece.schoolinsites.com Holtville Middle, 5-8 655 Bulldog Ln., Deatsville 334-569-1596 holtville.ecm.schoolinsites.com Holtville High, 9-12 10425 Holtville Rd., Deatsville 334-569-3034 holtville.ech.schoolinsites.com

Eclectic Eclectic Elementary, K-4 35 Harden St., Eclectic 334-541-2291 eclectic.ece.schoolinsites.com Eclectic Middle, 5-8 170 S. Ann St., Eclectic 334-541-2131 eclectic.ecm.schoolinsites.com Elmore County High, 9-12 155 N. College St., Eclectic 334-541-3662 elmorecounty.ech.schoolinsites.com

Millbrook Coosada Elementary, K-2 5260 Airport Road, Millbrook 334-285-0273 coosada.ece.schoolinsites.com

Stanhope Elmore High, 9-12 4300 Main St., Millbrook 334-285-4263 stanhope.ech.schoolinsites.com

Tallassee High 502 Barnett Blvd., Tallassee 334-283-2187 tallassee.tch.schoolinsites.com

Millbrook Child Development Program 5760 Main St., Millbrook 334-285-9450

Private

Wetumpka Child Development Center 510 Micanopy St., Wetumpka 334-567-1287

Adullam House Christian, Pre-K-8 7469 Georgia Rd., Wetumpka 334-514-0003

Wetumpka

Chapman Christian, Pre-K-12 4711 Chapman Rd., Millbrook 334-285-5354 chapmanchristianacademy.com

Elmore County Technical Center 800 Kelly Fitzpatrick Dr., Wetumpka 334-567-1218 elmorecounty.ect.schoolinsites.com

Edgewood Academy, K-12 5475 Elmore Rd., Wetumpka 334-567-5102 edgewoodacademy.org

Redland Elementary, K-6 495 Scholars Dr., Wetumpka 334-567-1248 redland.ece.schoolinsites.com

Emerald Mtn. Christian, Pre-K-12 4125 Rifle Range Rd., Wetumpka 334-567-0555 emeraldmountainchristianschool.org

Wetumpka Elementary, K-4 510 Micanopy St., Wetumpka 334-567-4323 wetumpka.ecm.schoolinsites.com

New Life Christian, K3-12 4230 Hwy. 14, Millbrook 334-285-5615 newlifechristianacademy.com

Wetumpka Intermediate, 5-8 1000 Micanopy St., Wetumpka 334-567-1413 wetumpka.eci.schoolinsites.com

Victory Baptist, Pre-K-12 3151 Hwy. 14, Millbrook 334-285-5082 Principal: Dan Todd victorybaptistschool.net

Wetumpka High, 9-12 1251 Coosa River Pkwy., Wetumpka 334-567-5158 wetumpka.ech.schoolinsites.com

Tallassee City School System The Tallassee City School System serves approximately 1,800 students. The systemâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website is www.tcschools.com. Tallassee Elementary 850 Friendship Rd., Tallassee 334-283-5001 tallassee.tce.schoolinsites.com Southside Middle 901 E.B. Payne Sr. Dr., Tallassee 334-283-2151 southside.tcm.schoolinsites.com

Other Adult Learning Center 512 Micanopy St., Wetumpka 334-567-1421 Eclectic Child Development Program 35 Harden St., Eclectic 334-541-4532 Eclectic Head Start Center 334-541-3428 Elmore County Alternative Program 800 Kelly Fitzpatrick Dr., Wetumpka 334-567-1298 Holtville Child Development Program 287 Whatley Rd,. Deatsville 334-514-5858, Ext. 41222 Intensive Treatment Placement Center 124 Chapel Rd., Wetumpka 334-567-1215

Colleges Alabama State University 915 S. Jackson St., Montgomery 334-229-4291 Auburn Montgomery 7300 University Dr., Montgomery 334-244-3611 Central Alabama Community College 1675 Cherokee Rd., Alexander City 256-234-6346 Faulkner University 5345 Atlanta Hwy., Montgomery 334-272-5820 Trenholm State Technical College 1225 Air Base Blvd., Montgomery 334-832-9000 Trenholm State Technical CollegePatterson 3920 Troy Hwy., Montgomery 334-288-1080 Huntingdon College 1500 E. Fairview Ave., Montgomery 334-833-4497 South University 5355 Vaughn Rd., Montgomery 334-263-1013 Troy University at Montgomery 231 Montgomery St., Montgomery 888-357-8843 Virginia College 6200 Atlanta Hwy., Montgomery 334-277-3390

2017-2018 FYI

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2017-2018 FYI

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Godwin’s Flowers 334.283.2160 • East Tallassee Shopping Center Tallassee, Alabama • www.godwinsflowers.com

IF YOU ARE BUYING OR SELLING ON LAKE MARTIN TALLASSEE, OR ECLECTIC CALL RODNEY!

LAKE MARTIN PROPERTIES

Rodney Griffith Cell:

(334) 207-0666

www.rodneygriffith.com rodney @ rodneygriffith.com

2017-2018 FYI

Area GOVERNMENT Elmore County Commission The Elmore County Commission meets the second and fourth Monday of every month at 6 p.m. in the Old Elmore County Courthouse in Wetumpka. Work sessions are at 5 p.m. preceding meetings. Phone - 334-514-5841. District 1 - Kenny Holt District 2 - Mack Daugherty District 3 - Troy Stubbs, Chairman District 4 - Bart Mercer District 5 - Earl Reeves

Elmore County Board of Education Phone number for the board’s central office 334-567-1200. Superintendent - Richard Dennis District 1 – Dale Bain District 2 - Patrycya Tucker District 3 - Mark Nelson District 4 - Michael Morgan, Chairman District 5 - Leisa Finley District 6 - Kitty Graham District 7 - Joey Holley

Tallassee City Board of Education Superindendent –Wade Shipman Board Members District 1–Kami Scarborough District 2 –Don Bryant District 3 – Jennifer Jelks District 4 – Ruthanne McCaig District 5 – Rex Ledbetter District 6 – Sandra Patterson District 7 – Lacey Brewer

Other Officials 19th Judicial Circuit District Attorney – Randall Houston Circuit Judges Bill Lewis Benjamin A. Fuller

Sibley G. Reynolds District Judges Glenn Goggans Patrick Pinkston Probate Judge - John E. Enslen Revenue Commissioner – Lee Macon Circuit Clerk - Brian Justiss Sheriff - Bill Franklin Coroner – Brad Linville

Coosada The Coosada Council meets the second Tuesday of every month at 6 p.m. at Coosada Town Hall. Phone - 334-285-3700. Mayor – Connie Hand Place 1 – Smiley Rogers Place 2 – Jo Milam Place 3 – Grant Crosby Place 4 – Howard Goza Place 5 – Theodore Jackson

Wetumpka The Wetumpka Council meets the first and third Monday monthly at Wetumpka City Hall. A work session begins at 6 p.m., followed by the business meeting. Phone - 334-567-5147. Mayor - Jerry Willis District 1 – Kevin Robbins District 2 – Percy Gill District 3 - Lynnes Justiss District 4 – Steve Gantt District 5 – Greg Jones City Clerk - Candy Masters

Deatsville The Deatsville Council meets the third Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Deatsville Fire Department. Phone - 334-285-9881. Mayor – Clayton Edgar Laura McGlamry Joey Acre Brian Smith Bill Gunter George Porter

Tallassee

Elmore

The Tallassee Council meets the second and fourth Monday of every month at Tallassee City Hall. Phone - 334-283-2361. Mayor - Johnny Hammock Ward 1 -Jason Taunton Ward 2 -Sarah Hill Ward 3 -Damien Carr Ward 4 - Darrell Wilson Ward 5 - Terrel Brown Ward 6 - Bill Godwin Ward 7 -David Stough

The Elmore Council meets the second Monday of every month at 7 p.m. in the Carmichael-Mercer Community Center. Phone - 334-514-5988. Mayor - Margaret White Place 1 - Christopher Sisson Place 2 – Open Place 3 - Scott Schodorf Place 4 - John Glasscock Place 5 - David Foster

Eclectic The Eclectic Council meets the first Monday of each month at 7 p.m. at Eclectic Town Hall. Phone - 334-541-2148. Mayor – Gary Davenport Inez Gates David Goodwin Charles Powell Linda Thornton Reed Jackie Stearns

Millbrook The Millbrook Council meets the second or fourth Monday of each month at 6 p.m. at the Millbrook Judicial Building. Work session begins at 5:30 p.m. Phone - 334-285-6428. Mayor - Al Kelley Ward 1 - Olivia Venable Ward 2 - Michael Gay Ward 3 - Jimmy Harris Ward 4 - Justin Jones Ward 5 - Hal Hodge

2017-2018 FYI

Local INDUSTRY Elmore County Economic Development Authority

Wetumpka Industrial Parks

Organized economic development efforts are important to communities across the country. Elmore County began working to capitalize on local resources with the 2003 formation of the Elmore County Economic Development Authority and subsequent development of ECEDA’s Tourism Council. Such an entity must have “something to sell” to businesses and industries that consider moving to an area. The list of items such prospects look for in a location include a diverse and stable workforce; good educational facilities; recreation opportunities; and plant sites that are convenient for transportation of both supplies and finished goods. Locations must also be adequately served by electricity, gas, telephone, sewer and water.

The city’s original industrial park – located on Highway 170 near its intersection with Highway 14 – is at capacity and boasts a variety of manufacturing concerns. With the purchase of a 93-acre tract on Highway14, Wetumpka’s second industrial park offers new sites. Wetumpka’s Westside Technology Park has access to all necessary utilities and is centrally located with convenient access to U.S. Highway 231, I-65 and the Wetumpka Municipal Airport.

Wetumpka Municipal Airport The Wetumpka Municipal Airport – located on Highway 14 between the City of Wetumpka and I-65 – is one of the state’s busiest general aviation

airports with an average of 110 flights daily. The facility has a 3,000 foot runway – long enough to accommodate small jets. More than 100 aircraft are based at the airport. A new terminal is located on the site. A “J” taxiway offers seven spaces on which multi-craft hangars may be built by lessees. An additional taxiway with 14 spaces for large hangars is part of the airport’s long-range plan. The Wetumpka Municipal Airport is centrally located six miles from I-65 and five miles from the city’s new Westside Technology Park. It is also convenient to the Alabama River Parkway, which provides access via toll bridge to north Montgomery.

Tallassee Industrial Development

The Tallassee Industrial Development Board offers affordable space in its Entrepreneur Center for startup or expanding industries, as well as

property in three industrial parks. Tallassee Industrial Park South is a 234-acre site located about two miles from I-85. The Tallassee Industrial Park is a 79.5-acre site with approximately 20 acres still available and is six miles from I-85. The Donald Reeves Airport Park is located approximately eight miles from I-85 and has about 100 acres available for purchase.

Tallassee Municipal Airport Tallassee’s Donald Reeves Airport is a general aviation airport located between I-85 and the city’s central business district. It covers 425 acres. It is owned by the City of Tallassee and began operation in 1996. Its runway is 3,207 feet.

City of Millbrook

Comfort... Convenience... Community

Medical/Surgical Inpatient Services Emergency Room Services 24/7 Inpatient Chemical Detox Primary & Urgent Care

Call 334-567-4311 500 Hospital Drive, Wetumpka, AL

334-285-6428 www.cityofmillbrook.org

2017-2018 FYI

Emergency SERVICES Law Enforcement Elmore County Sheriff 8955 U.S. Hwy. 231 Wetumpka 334-567-5546 Coosada Police 5800 Coosada Rd. Millbrook 334-285-3700 Eclectic Police 145 Main St. Eclectic 334-541-2148 Millbrook Police 3900 Grandview Rd. Millbrook 334-285-6475

Eclectic 334-541-4425 Elmore VFD 15 Fire Station Rd. Elmore 334-567-3480 Emerald Mountain VFD 1785 Old Ware Rd. Wetumpka 334-514-4357 Friendship VFD 4544 Friendship Rd. Tallassee 334-283-6463 Holtville/Slapout Fire & Rescue, Inc. 5615 Ceasarville Rd. Wetumpka 334-569-2461

Prattville Police 101 W. Main St. 334-595-0208

Lightwood VFD 6250 Lightwood Rd. Deatsville 334-569-1818

Tallassee Police 214 Barnett Blvd. Tallassee 334-283-6586

Kowaliga VFD 1240 Prospect Rd. Eclectic 334-857-3648

Wetumpka Police 208 Marshall St. Wetumpka 334-567-5321

Fire Departments Buyck VFD 125 Laurel Creek Rd. Titus 334-514-0410 Coosada VFD 5830 Coosada Rd. Coosada 334-285-6200 Deatsville VFD 6930 Hwy. 143 Deatsville 334-285-1821 Eclectic VFD 140 First Ave.

Millbrook Fire Department 3820 Grandview Rd. Millbrook 334-285-6707

Santuck VFD 7645 Central Plank Rd. Wetumpka 334-567-5144 Seman VFD 15860 Central Plank Rd. Equality 334-541-4600 Tallassee Fire Department 123 N. Ann Ave. Tallassee 334-283-5660 Titus VFD 5879 Titus Rd. Titus 334-514-1070 Wetumpka Fire Department Stations on S. Main, W. Coosa, U.S. Hwy. 231 S. and U.S. Hwy. 231 N. 334-567-1333 Windermere VFD 3050 Crosswinds Alexander City 256-329-0906

Hospitals

Prattville Fire Department 942 E. Main St. 334-595-0300

Elmore Community Hospital 500 Hospital Dr. Wetumpka 334-567-4311

Real Island VFD 1495 Real Island Rd. Equality 334-857-3233

Community Hospital 805 Friendship Rd. Tallassee 334-283-6541

Red Hill VFD 5529 Chana Creek Rd. Tallassee 334-541-3855 Redland VFD 4367 Redland Rd. Wetumpka 334-567-6814

Medical Clinics Community Medical Arts 875 Friendship Rd.

Tallassee 334-283-3111

route 911 calls to the appropriate authority.

PriMed Physicians Inc. 4452 U.S. Hwy. 231 Wetumpka 334-567-8400

Emergency Management Agency 100 E. Commerce St. Wetumpka 334-567-6451

Tallassee Family Care 115 Herren Hill Rd. Tallassee 334-283-3477 Wetumpka Urgent Care 11 Cambridge Dr. Wetumpka 334-567-8633

Other agencies E-911 is used in the county. Dispatchers

Care Ambulance 334-567-9455 334-252-0088 Elmore County Firefighters Association 334-514-9247 Haynes Ambulance 510 Hospital Dr. Wetumpka 334-514-7911 Search and Rescue of Elmore County 334-567-5227

Alabama Marine Police District III Headquarters 126 Marina Rd. Alexander City 256-329-2268 1-800-432-7389

2017-2018 FYI

Making CONNECTIONS 1-800-481-6909 Alabama Power 400 S. Main St. Wetumpka 1-800-245-2244 303 Gilmer Ave. Tallassee 1-800-245-2244 Central Alabama Electric Coop 637 Coosa River Pkwy. Wetumpka 1-800-545-5735, 334-5678855

DirecTV 1-888-795-9489 Dish Network 1-888-825-2557 EarthLink 1-800-859-5017 Hiwaay Internet Services 1-888-231-6852

Water

Cable and telephone

Spectrum / Bright House 3996 U.S. Hwy. 231 Wetumpka 334-567-4344

Central Elmore Water and Sewer 133 Lake Point Rd. Eclectic 334-541-3480 716 U.S. Hwy. 231 Wetumpka 334-567-6814

Direct Digital TV

Eclectic Water Works

AT&T 1-888-321-2375

507 Main St. Eclectic 334-541-2840

3 Freeman Ave. Tallassee 334-283-4298

Elmore Water Authority 1633 Ala. Hwy. 14 Elmore 334-285-6109

Tri Community Water System 2630 Main St. Millbrook 334-285-4267

Cooperative Propane 824 Gilmer Ave. Tallassee 334-283-4042

Wetumpka Water Works 2909 Elmore Rd. Wetumpka 334-567-8404

L&P Propane 8768 Holtville Rd. Wetumpka 334-569-4277

Wall Street Water 5059 Notasulga Rd. Tallassee 334-283-5002

Southern Natural Gas 5070 Coosada Pkwy. Elmore 334-285-6464

Gas and Propane

Superior Gas Inc. 8561 U.S. Hwy. 231 Wetumpka 334-567-5421

Friendship Water Works 4540 Friendship Rd. Tallassee 334-283-6463 Holtville Water System 10048 Holtville Rd. Holtville 334-569-2105 Millbrook Water and Sewer Department 3861 Grandview Rd. Millbrook 334-285-3001 Tallassee Gas and Water Department

Acme Propane Gas 9945 Holtville Rd. Wetumpka 334-569-3325

Apex Gas and Appliance 7616 U.S. Hwy. 231 Wetumpka 334-567-8833

Elmore County Sheriff’s Ofﬁce

¡ Ń ¡ 8955 US HWY 231 WETUMPKA, AL 36092

334-567-5546 www.elmoreso.com Secret Witness Line: 334-567-5227

Front Row: Mayor Pro-Term Bill Godwin, Mayor Johnny Hammock, City Clerk Barbara Garnett Back Row: Sarah Hill, David Stough, Darrell Wilson, Terrell Brown, Jeremy Taunton, Damian Carr

CITY OF TALLASSEE 3 FREEMAN AVENUE, TALLASSEE, AL

(334) 283 - 6571 Where new business and industry are always welcome!

2017-2018 FYI

Southern Classic Realty, LLC 1409 Gilmer Ave., Suite 2, Tallassee, AL 36078

334-991-4727 www.southernclassicrealty.net

Wanda Jones, CRS

Jan Casey

Chuck Stewart

Christy Parker

Associate Broker/Co-Owner REALTOR®

Broker/Co-Owner

REALTOR®

334-799-8531

334-306-5795

334-415-4868

334-201-7974

jan@southernclassicrealty.net

chuck@southernclassicrealty.net

christy@southernclassicrealty.net

wanda@southernclassicrealty.net Over 25 years experience on your side! Currently licensed in Alabama since 2011 and was licensed in Southern California from 1992-2012. I was also licensed in Arizona for 2 years. My business partner and I opened Southern Classic Realty LLC in Oct 2012 in Tallassee, Alabama. I enjoy working with buyers and sellers in all price ranges. I’m also an experienced real estate investor and have been since 2003.

After moving to Tallassee from Birmingham in 1988, I owned/operated Lake Side Golf & Country Club for 18 yrs. Upon selling the business in 2005, I got my builders license and real estate license. I became acting broker at Dabwood Realty in 2007, where I worked until my business partner and I opened Southern Classic Realty LLC in Tallassee in Oct. 2012. I also manage investment properties for clients, work with new home builders as well as buyers and sellers.

Lifelong resident of Tallassee, Alabama serving the Tallassee and Lake Martin Area as an active real estate agent for over 6 years with an additional 35 years of manufacture engineering and management experience. Specializing in personal attention to assisting real estate property buyers and sellers to realize maximum value while providing seamless and transparent service through real estate transaction process.

Christy Parker, along with her husband Jeff, are life long residents of Tallassee and have raised 3 children here. Having sales experience for over 20 years and owning and operating her own business, she knows what it takes to be successful. Christy applies her integrity, energy, hard work, and creative service in every detail of your real estate transaction. Christy strives for nothing less than total satisfaction with the buyer and seller to make their process a dream come true.

Featured on HGTV MY LOTTERY DREAM HOME "Sweet Dream Home Alabama" 3/10/17

2017-2018 FYI