June 30, 2016 Eclectic Observer by Tallapoosa Publishers

Panthers go winless in 7-on-7 event

The world has gone mad over Brexit

The real cost of freedom of speech

Eclectic Observer Page 4

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THURSDAY • JUNE 30, 2016

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

Vol. 27, No. 26

Woman dies in Elmore county jail

By COREY ARWOOD Staff Writer

A woman died Wednesday morning in Elmore County Jail, and a sheriff’s office official said autopsy results are expected to determine the cause of her death, which was said to have occurred within a 15-minute time span. Diana Layne, 39, of Pell City, was placed in the jail Monday night, said Sheriff Bill Franklin. He said the tribal police of Wind Creek Casino apprehended Layne on possession of a controlled substance, which Franklin said were 22 opiate-based, morphine pills.

At 6:07 a.m. Wednesday, Franklin said morning supervisors were about to leave their shift and checked in with Layne. He said they asked if she was going to eat breakfast. At 6:22 a.m. he said they found her unresponsive, and called for help. He said there were nurses on duty who were familiar with Layne, however he said it was soon learned that she was deceased. At which time, he said they called on the forensic science department for an autopsy. Franklin said there was evidence of active drugs in her system, and that she had been administered a urinalysis due to the nature of her arrest.

Due to these factors, he said the nurses had been, to some extent, looking in on Layne. He said due to her condition she was being held in one of the air-conditioned holding cell portions of the jail. Franklin also mentioned another arrest which he said occurred near the casino on Tuesday. He said he was not sure if there was any relation between the two cases, but a man, Tyrone Woods, 36, of Selma, was arrested on drug trafficking charges in possession of over 100 of the same style of pills, which Layne possessed. Franklin said the Central Alabama Drug Task Force made the arrest.

Commission considers leasing Board of Education building

Law causes confusion in school board on raises By COREY ARWOOD Staff Writer

By WILLIAM CARROLL Managing Editor

Based on a recent Alabama bill pertaining to pay raises for education employees, the Elmore County School Board voted to raise the wages of employees across the board, giving a 4 percent raise to those making more than $75,000 by 4 percent, however holding the superintendent to a 2 percent raise. Monday’s school board meeting ran over two hours and was host to a number of issues of debate between board members, however, of those issues, the pay raise topic garnered some of the most contentious discussions. The debate arose around whether to grant the optional 4 percent increase to public

With that honor, Norris also receives a $1,600 scholarship award. The first runner up was Madison Hill of Holtville High School who won a $750 scholarship. Second runner up Sarah Ray of Wetumpka High School won $650.00. Other winners included:

County commissioners heard a proposal from Adullam House for the rental of the old Board of Education building located at the corner of E. Bridge and Hill streets. Adullam House Director Angie Spackman told the commissioners that her group has been looking for the last few months around downtown Wetumpka for office space for Adullam House, which is a home for children of incarcerated parents that has been in operation in Elmore County for over 20 years. “We have looked at several facilities,” Spackman said noting that this was a time for expansion at Adullam House as they have recently been asked to take care of children in orphanages in Eastern Europe. “We need to have a much more professional face to the operation.” Spackman noted that people in the community are very familiar with the thrift store in the WinnDixie shopping center on Highway 231, but that the organization also has its main office space and a facility for mothers called Mary’s Place.

See AWARD • Page 2

See COMMISSION • Page 3

See SCHOOLS • Page 3

Submitted / The Observer

Lauren Norris (center) a rising senior at Prattville Christian Academy was named 2017 Distinguished Young Woman of Elmore County. Sarah Ray (left) of Wetumpka High School was named second runner up and Madison Hill (right) was named first runner up during the competition.

Norris wins Distinguished Young Woman award By COREY ARWOOD Staff Writer

Incoming Prattville Christian Academy Senior Lauren Norris won the honor of being named 2017 Distinguished Young Woman of Elmore County at the competition held Saturday evening at Elmore County High School.

Power company suspends recreational flow to Coosa By COREY ARWOOD Staff Writer

Alabama Power issued a “lake conditions alert” in a recent press release, which stated that heat and dry conditions have affected water levels and as a result the company will soon cease recreational releases to the Coosa River from the Jordan Dam. According to the statement, the water flows will be suspended starting on the weekend of July 4. The owners of two local businesses that rely on the river have made varying statements in response to the release, however neither seem too concerned by the announcement. Lonnie Carden of Coosa Outdoor Center said it was too early to tell just what the result would be from the power See RIVER • Page 2

Today’s

Weather

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Library ribbon cutting ceremony set for July 5 By COREY ARWOOD Staff Writer

File / The Observer

A competitor paddles through the rapids during last year’s Coosa River Whitewater Festival at Moccasin Gap.

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A ribbon cutting ceremony for the new addition to the Eclectic Public Library is scheduled for July 5. Mayor Gary Davenport said it was being held in part to recognize the businesses and individuals who helped complete the building. Several dignitaries, members of the Elmore County Commission, and County Board of Education, along with past legislative representatives were expected to be present at the ceremony, said Davenport. The event is set for 2:30 p.m. at the location of the new annex. He said the process of renovating what had been a municipal shop had taken over a year to complete. The ceremony was in part dedicated to those, he said, who had donated funding, materials and labor to the construction process. Betty Coker, the director of the library said, “It’s going to be a great addition to our library.”

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PAGE 2 • JUNE 30, 2016

Obituaries Arthur Lamberth

Arthur Glyn Lamberth (born December 31, 1929) went to be with our Lord Sunday, June 26, 2016 at his home in Central, Alabama. He was born December 31, 1929. Funeral services will be at 2 p.m., Thursday, June 30, at Linville Memorial Funeral Home with Bro. Scott Leach officiating. Burial will follow at Rose Hill Cemetery, Linville Memorial Funeral home directing. Arthur is survived by his brother, Leon Lamberth (Delores); his children, Jonell Hammond, Cindy Coan (Eric), Tim Lamberth (Diane), Bonnie Collini, Angela Westerfer, Rosanne Middleton (Jeff) and Tracy Lamberth; grandchildren, Shane Hammond, Sarah Heckler, Erica Hollis, Zachary Hammond, Nathan Heckler, Brandon Lamberth, Angela Thoms, Wayne Hollis, Clay Collini, Lillian Grecu, Steven Grecu, Shade Collini, Rachel Heckler, Cayenne Collini, Kayla Hollis, Faith Lamberth and Grace Lamberth; and great grandchildren, Skye Walls, Gabi Hammond, Noah Heckler, Kyra Hammond, Jaxtin Baull, Gabe Heckler, Jude Heckler, Skarlett Miller, Juniper O’Toole, Benjamin Thoms and Reilly O’Toole. He is preceded in death by his parents, Joseph Henry Lamberth and Alphia Lamberth Garrett; his siblings, LD Lamberth, Klenzo Lamberth, Dean Frazier, Allison Lamberth, JoDell Lamberth; and his grandson, Joshua MacMorris. Arthur graduated from Tallassee High School and Clemson University. During the Korean War he served as an honor guard. After 37 years as an electrical engineer at EI DuPont, he returned to his roots to become a farmer raising goats, cows, rabbits, guinea hens, ducks and geese. Arthur loved gardening, tennis, and genealogy, but most of all, spending time with family. Online condolences at www.linvillememorial. com. Linville Memorial Funeral Home Eclectic, Alabama

William Peterson

Mr. William Henry “Bill” Peterson, 97, of Eclectic, passed away June 23, 2016. He was born January 25, 1919. Visitation will be Friday, June 24, from 3-5 pm at Linville Memorial Funeral Home. Funeral service will be Saturday, June 25, at 11 am at Linville Memorial Chapel with Rev. Marty Dunlap and Rev. David Babson officiating. Burial will follow at Pleasant Grove Cemetery in Eclectic, Linville Memorial Funeral home directing. He is survived by his daughter, Nancy Doler (Rickey); stepdaughter, Mary E. Hopper (Danny); stepsons, John Goodman (Debra) and Derrick Goodman (Denise); grandson, Kevin Doler (Tracie); step-grandchildren, Steven Goodman, Angela Cox, John Goodman, Jeanine Pitchford and Paige Armstrong and nine step-great grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his wives, Sybil Askew Peterson and Evelyn Peterson. Bill was a veteran of World War II and the Korean War and retired from the United States Air Force after 20 years of service. He loved going to church and enjoyed gospel music. He never met a stranger and always had a story to share. Online condolences at www.linvillememorial.com. Linville Memorial Funeral Home Eclectic, Alabama

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THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER

No shortage of holiday weekend events planned in area STAFF REPORT TPI Staff

Are you still finalizing your holiday weekend plans? If a trip to the beach or an extended vacation is not in the cards for you, relax. There are plenty of events scheduled right here close to home for you along with your family and friends to take in to help celebrate Independence Day. From parades, music, great food and plenty of fireworks check out the events planned in the Lake Martin region. July 1 Friday On The Green This Friday’s free concert on the Russell Crossroads Town Green will feature Rexton Lee from 6:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. Bring coolers, blankets, chairs, kids and pets for live music, lawn games and time with family and friends. July 1 Alabama Avenue at Chuck’s Alabama Avenue is so excited to kick off 4th of July weekend at Chuck’s Marina on beautiful Lake Martin! Celebrate the grand opening of the new Chuckwalla pizza kitchen as you spend your Friday night singing and dancing under the stars. July 2 Russell Crossroads Community Garden Club Pancake Breakfast The Russell Crossroads Community Garden Club members will be up early cooking pancakes for all to enjoy at the Artist’s Cabin from 8 a.m. until 10 a.m. on holiday weekend Saturdays. Come by, feed the family and help out the garden club. July 2 Fireworks Bash The Hackneyville Volunteer Fire Department will host its 4th annual Independence Day celebration and fireworks show from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. at 9461 Highway 63 North, across from the fire station in Hackneyville, just eight miles from Alexander CIty. Kowaliga Country 97.5 will be on site, aand guets

can enjoy live music from Baylie Kizziah, Outshine and Rexton Lee. July 2-3 Arti Gras Russell Crossroads once again will host this juried art show on the Town Green. Browse the tents and find that perfect piece for your lake home. There will be handmade pottery, photography, furniture, watercolors, oil paintings, reclaimed wood décor, jewelry, soaps, jams, jellies and more from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday. For information, call 256-212-1416. July 3 Celebrate Freedom The celebration begins at 6 p.m. on the lawn of Benjamin Russell High School in Alexander City. Celebrate the Fourth of July with a free concert and fireworks show at dark. Nationally known Christian singer Josh Wilson will be the headliner of the concert. Food vendors will be available. No private coolers allowed. July 4 Russell Marine Fourth of July Boat Parade Decorate your boat and join the patriotic crowd at Kowaliga Marina as boats of all sizes, shapes and decorations parade from Kowaliga Marina to Children’s Harbor, circling past the lighthouse and making the return trip. Spectators line the shore along the route to applaud their favorite boats and contestants. Registered boats will vie for top honors for Largest Flag, Tallest Flag, Most Patriotic Crew, Most Creative and Best Overall. Boat parade starts at 10 a.m. Call 334-857-2111 to register or for information. July 4 Fourth of July Blast Find a spot on the grassy hillside at Lake Martin Amphitheater for the 16th annual Fourth of July Blast, as Russell Lands hosts the Southeast’s largest fireworks show over Lake Martin. Gates open at 5 p.m. Show starts at 6:30 p.m. The Bank Walkers and Sweet Tea will entertain, and the fireworks start at 9 p.m. Call 256-397-1019 for information.

Award Be Your Best Self - Essay- $200 Sarah Ray Scholastic Awards - $300 - Madison Hill and Sarah Ray Interview Awards - $250 - Sarah Ray and Brianna Duncan (Holtville High School) Talent Awards - $250 - Madison Hill and Madison Law (Holtville High School) Fitness Awards - $250 - Madison Law and Morgan

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Bryant (Wetumpka High School) Self Expression Awards - $250 - Lauren Norris and Caity Jo Lee (Edgewood Academy) Roberta Pilcher Spirit Award - $250 - Lauren Norris Distinguished Young Women is a national scholarship program that inspires high school girls to develop their full, individual potential through a fun experience that highlights their accomplishments. The program encourages young women to develop self-confidence and the abilities to interview effectively, speak in public, perform on stage and build inter-personal relationships. Norris will now represent Elmore County in the statewide competition in Montgomery held in January 2017.

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company’s announcement of a suspended water flow. In the release, the company also said lakes in three other river systems would likely experience a decline in levels. On the Coosa River it specifically mentioned Weiss, Neely Henry and Logan Martin Lakes, while on the Tallapoosa

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River it specified lakes Harris and Martin. Smith Lake along the Black Warrior River was also stated to experience decline from the conditions. However, the owner of Coosa River Adventures said the information was “nothing new.” Chris Carter said even at its lowest flow volume, the Coosa would still be sufficient to paddle. The volume might not meet the desires of hardcore kayakers, he said, but there would be trade off in what he called the “logistical beauty” of the river, which he said was its peak when it was lower. He said there would be a rise in incidents of what he called, “Coosa River Tattoo’s,” or the markings caused by the damage to the bottom of vessels from the rocky riverbed. Carter brought up another factor, which would act to guarantee a certain level of water flow to the Coosa. “All hail the snail, because if it weren’t for him we may not have any water at all,” said Carter. He was referring to the Tulotoma magnifica, an endangered snail species, Carter said was once thought to be nearly extinct, and which thrived in the oxygenated rapids on the Coosa. A minimum flow was set for the conservation of the species, Carter said.

THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

JUNE 30, 2016 • PAGE 3

Schools

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school employees, despite pay rate discrepancies proposed in the bill. At a previous meeting, the board announced the four percent raise would be applied across the school system. The law, or House Bill 121, left it up to local school systems how they chose to apply the raises, which were roughly set at minimums of four percent for employees making less than $75,000, and 2 percent for those making above that. However, Elmore County Public Schools decided to go with the 4 percent salary increase for all employees, after officials said they surveyed roughly 92 percent of school systems in the state and found that was how they were applying the funds. The bill was signed into law April, 26, according to state documents. However, the language of the bill seemed to be a main reason for debate at the meeting, when Board Chair Larry Teel requested that Superintendent Andre Harrison not recommend the raise, saying it would violate state law. “Mr. Superintendent I’m going to take the privilege of the chair and ask that the next recommendation that you consider not making that recommendation because if this board approves it, it will be in violation of State law of State Bill, House Bill, I believe it’s 121, that’s correct House Bill 121 act 2016 198,” said Teel. Teel’s request appeared to come from his reading of the bill, however other board members later pointed the wording as referring to a “minimum” raise of 2 percent; not a set limit.

He said the “letter of the law” specified a two-percent increase and Harrison was proposing a four percent increase for those employees making over $75,000 per year. There seemed to be confusion and the board scrambled to understand and respond to Teel’s statement. Harrison followed that it was up to the board if it voted it down his recommendation, and said he could make an adjustment to reflect a 2 percent raise and redo the salary schedule. Teel followed through with what appeared to be his understanding of the law, saying “the intent and letter of the law” was “quite clear.” The conversation was turned to the Chief School Financial Officer, Jeffrey Middleton, who said the numbers Harrison was proposing were in line with their previous considerations. A main issue in their discussion was resolved when Teel referred to the bill and read, “Personnel earning $75,000 or more shall receive 2 percent minimum salary increase.” Patrycya Tucker, of District 2, asked for clarification about the use of “minimum,” and mentioned that one system was going higher than four percent. “If it says the minimum, is that what it says, the minimum?” said Tucker. To which Teel replied, “Yes ma’am.” Teel later conceded however, “I think the timing is totally inappropriate to be giving our employees additional raises, in addition to what the state is giving, I don’t think our economic condition justifies that at all.” Another board member, Mark Nelson, of District 3,

Commission and a facility for mothers called Mary’s Place. Spackman said that originally Adullam was looking for a new location for Mary’s House as the trust that owned the property had decided to sell it. She said that the family of the trust pledged to donate funds to build a new Mary’s place, but that Adullam’s current office space is a perfect location for the home. Adullam then asked to use the $150,000 pledged dollars for a new office facility and had entered into talks with the county about renovating and leasing the old BOE structure. Spackman said it was her understanding that the structure needed significant work including rewiring and the removal of asbestos. Commissioner David Bowen said that the county’s use of the building is restricted and that the county is not permitted to sell the building, but can lease it for a community based purpose. Spackman said that Adullam House could use

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the $150,000 to perform the necessary renovations, but she wanted to county to give the group a longer lease term due to the initial investment to be made in the property. The commission took no action on the matter as negotiations are ongoing between the county and Adullam on the property. Commissioners voted 4-0, Stephanie Daniels Smoke was not present at the meeting, to approve extending the county jail’s health care services contract with Quality Correctional Health Care for 90 days so that the parties could continue negotiating a long-term contract. During the commission’s last meeting on June 13, renewal of the contract was tabled as commissioners were hoping to negotiate a cost break on the terms of the contract. Commissioners voted

to table a franchise agreement extension for Charter Communications, which would have extended the agreement to August 26, 2020 to coincide with the Bright House franchise agreement. Taylor C. Vice, director of Charter’s government affairs group said that due to Charter merging with Bright House, his company wanted an extension of their franchise agreement to go along with Bright House’s current agreement. The commission also voted unanimously to approve the building purchase proposal for the county’s drug task force. The task force will be purchasing the building they are already using at a proposed cost of $ 315,000. The original asking price is $372,000. The county currently rents a portion of the building for just under $20,000 per year.

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In other matters before the commission: • Commissioners voted to approve a $5,000 sponsorship for Elmore County Economic Development Authority to participate in the Farnborough International Air Show. • Authorized the county engineer to execute and agreement with the US Dept. of AgricultureNatural Resources Conservation Service for an Emergency Watershed Protection Grant to repair sites damaged during the December 2015 flood. • Approved the Elmore County Americans with Disabilities Act Transportation Transition Plan.

later remarked that local funds would be used in any amount, which exceeded the state based raises. In this case, those funds would pay the 2 percent increase set for those employees making over $75,000, to which the state set out only a 2 percent increase. It was said that the 2 percent increases would amount to roughly $17,000 per year in salary expense. Ultimately, the argument resulted in discrepancies over whether Superintendent Harrison would receive a pay raise, and to what amount. After minutes of discussion among board members, and between Harrison and Teel over what percent would be appropriate, Harrison made a statement, which resulted in a humorous attempt to publicly excluded him from the additional salary increase. “Let me make myself clear to the public, when I decided to put my name on the ballot I was running for $109, and I have no problem with $109,” said Harrison. At which Tucker leaned in and said “109 thousand, 109 thousand,” and the room erupted in laughter. Harrison followed, “109 thousand dollars, I’m sorry, so again I have no problem with staying at $109,000 if I’m reelected for the next four … so exclude me.” In the end, the board voted that the 4 percent raise would be applied for all employees minus Harrison who would receive a 2 percent raise. Check out this weekend’s Elmore County Weekend edition for more details from this meeting.

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Steve Baker, Publisher William Carroll, Managing Editor Opinions expressed in guest columns and letters to the editor do not necessarily reflect the viewpoint of the management of Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc.

PAGE 4 • JUNE 30, 2016

OPINION

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

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

The world has gone mad over Brexit WILLIAM CARROLL Managing Editor

f you needed any signs of the doom and gloom that sometimes fills the world economy, you need look no further than the recent vote by the United Kingdom to leave the European Union. After the so called Brexit vote, the economies of Europe, the U.S., even Asian markets tanked. Uncertainty seems to always rule world markets, which are one part business and four parts gambling consistent with the best casinos in the world. The reality though is uncertainty is a truly human weakness. Think about your own life. Most people choose to live fairly common and structured lives. We go to work and come home at a certain time each day. Many of us tend to even handle our housework and daily chores based upon some predetermined schedule. Many people reading these words have lived in the same home or community for decades. We like the familiar, we know the schedule of our favorite television programs like the back of our hand. Change, especially in a conservative state like Alabama is scary. We like what we know. That is I think the common theme for all humanity. We can debate the merits and drawbacks of the United Kingdom. leaving Europe, but the

reality is none of us really know what will happen to Britain in the near future. The beauty of the human race is that we try to plan, but our best laid plans oftentimes blow up in our faces. We were not really blessed with foresight that of course belongs totally with a higher power. The funny thing about Brexit is its parallels to our own country. Similarities have already been drawn between the nationalistic Brexit vote and our own nation’s support for Donald Trump. The situations are somewhat similar, but the U.S. lost its similarity to the mother country well over 200 years ago. We have a much more diverse population than does the United Kingdom and we have had such a population for the majority of our existence. Still, the madness of Brexit threatens at times to affect our country. When a vote, with an uncertain outcome can negatively effect world markets the way the Brexit vote has, it is concerning. As much as many of us would like not to be part of the world stage, the world stage forces us to be a participant. As much as British voters chose a nationalistic approach, the world will still control the majority of their internal operations. We live in a global world now whether we want to or not. We can of course go mad from time to time, but the world draws us back every single time. Carroll is the managing editor of The Observer.

Eclectic Observer The

334-567-7811 • Fax 334-567-3284 email: news@thewetumpkaherald.com THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER (005-022) is published weekly on Thursday by Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc., 548 Cherokee Road, Alexander City, AL 35010. Periodical postage paid at Wetumpka, Alabama. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Eclectic Observer, P.O. Box 99, Wetumpka, AL 36092-0099. ISSN # 1536-688X. We reserve the right to refuse to print any advertisement, news story, photograph or any other material submitted to us for any reason or no reason at all. •Obituaries - $.25 per word per paper. Additional $15 charge for a photo per paper. (Herald, Weekend, Observer, Tribune). •Weddings/Engagements - $.25 per word per paper. $15 charge for a 2-column photo. •Birth Announcements - $.25 per word per paper. $15 charge for a photo. SUBSCRIPTION RATES One Year in Elmore, Tallapoosa or Coosa County: $25 One Year Elsewhere: $38 The publisher reserves the right to change subscription rates during the term of subscription at any time. To subscribe or if you miss your paper, call 256-234-4281. © 2016 Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. All rights reserved and any reproduction of this issue is prohibited without the consent of the editor or publisher. ADMINISTRATION Steve Baker, publisher publisher@thewetumpkaherald.com William Carroll, managing editor william.carroll@thewetumpkaherald.com NEWS Corey Arwood, staff writer corey.arwood@thewetumpkaherald.com Carmen Rodgers, staff writer carmen.rodgers@thewetumpkaherald.com Cory Diaz, sports editor Cory.Diaz@TheWetumpkaHerald.com. . . . . . . Ext. 306 SALES Jayne Carr, marketing consultant Jayne.Carr@TheWetumpkaHerald.com . . . . . . Ext. 313 Molly Brethauer, marketing consultant molly.brethaur@TheWetumpkaHerald.com. . . . . . . . Ext. 305

What happened to civil discourse?

hen did having a difference of opinion transition from being just that to hatred and stupidity? Whether discussing race, politics or college football, there are some issues many Americans simply can’t discuss in a civil manner. Discussions on race can become violent. Just say something negative about Dale Earnhardt and race fans will lose their mind. Lambasting individuals with opposing views is un-American. It baffles my mind and needs to change. Listening to and tolerating different points of view should be one of the great perks of living in the greatest country on earth. As long as they are expressed respectfully, personal attacks have no place in civil discourse. People are serious about college football in our state – quite frankly, too serious. Sure, I want Auburn to win every game, but when they lose, I know the sun is still going to rise the next day. A win or a loss will not impact my life in any manner. If we were as passionate about things that really matter – things that impact our lives – perhaps we wouldn’t be competing with other southern states in the “Battle for the Bottom” of things of actual importance: health, education, elected officials, etc. I wrote a guest column for al.com on the two Alabama football players recently arrested for drug and weapons charges,



JODY FULLER Guest Columnist

both of which were eventually dropped. The district attorney’s reason for dropping the charges even made Paul Finebaum’s head spin. Days later, more information was released. I simply wrote about the need for them being held accountable for their actions, specifically the weapons charges. There weren’t any negative comments when I posted the article to my social media. In fact, most Bama fans were in agreement, while others informed me of the sanctions Coach Saban and the university levied against the two studentathletes, which were quite stringent, I must say. However, when it comes to the comments on al.com, that’s a different story. If you want to read them, I encourage you to first hide the women and children. My mama, a Bama fan, was furious. I expected some backlash because some fans just have too much Bama in them. To be fair, I’m sure the same can be said for some Auburn fans – some. Some think if you love one team you must instinctively hate the other, which is simply ridiculous. I was born in 1972,

six months before the “Punt Bama Punt” game, so my Auburn fandom was off to a good start. Of course, Bama went on to win for the next nine years, which was not easy, as I was the only Auburn fan in my house. Most folks don’t like fence riders, and make no mistake about it: I’m not a fence rider. I’m Auburn all the way, but why waste hatred on a game? It’s just football and many of these kids were just a signature away from playing for another team – perhaps my team. I don’t think they should have been kicked off the team, much less sent to prison, where they likely would have become part of the system. I’m sure they are good young men. We all make mistakes. I just wanted them to be held accountable. I’m a military man and believe in good order and discipline and make no apologies for it. When Auburn players mess up, I want them to be held accountable, too. For some rabid fans, it’s all about football. Believe it or not, I actually care about these young men and their future. I wish them nothing but the best, but I want to see them doing well 20 years down the road – not just on Saturdays in the fall. Jody Fuller is a comic, speaker, writer and soldier with three tours of duty in Iraq. For more information, visit jodyfuller.com.

YOUR VIEW

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Hubbard proof that absolute power corrupts absolutely

he older you get the more you realize that old adages you heard as a child are true. There is a political maxim that says, “power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely.” It could very aptly be applied to the Mike Hubbard saga. Mike Hubbard was born and raised in north Georgia. He went to college at the University of Georgia and majored in journalism and landed a job in the Bulldog Sports Information Department. About that time an amazing athlete came from rural Georgia to play football at the University of Georgia. His name was Herschel Walker. Hubbard was assigned the task of spearheading the media promotion to win Walker the Heisman Trophy. Indeed he won the prestigious award as the nation’s greatest football player. A few years later, Auburn University landed an unusually talented athlete in Vincent “Bo” Jackson. Pat Dye had gotten the coveted Jackson after Bear Bryant dismissively told Jackson he would probably make him a defensive back or linebacker. Jackson did not like hearing that and he made Bryant regret it. Bo Jackson became the best football player in the country. Pat Dye, who is a Georgia grad and an all American guard, reached out to his alma mater to find out who promoted Walker and learned that it was Mike Hubbard. Dye brought Hubbard to Auburn and Hubbard soon had a resume that made him the prime promoter of two Heisman Trophy winners. Hubbard parlayed this notoriety into building a media empire around Auburn athletics. He controlled television and radio rights to Auburn games and even started his own radio station and printing company. He got elected to the legislature to

House. Indeed it was and still

Inside the is and will continue to be a majority. His minions Statehouse super elected him as their Speaker. By Steve Flowers represent Auburn in 1998. Hubbard followed the legendary Pete Turnham in the Auburn House seat. Mr. Pete served 40 years in the House from 1958-1998. He had the record for legislative tenure in state history and was known as the Dean of the House. Mr. Pete and I sat beside each other for 16 years in the House. I watched Pete over the years and every vote he cast and every action was geared toward helping Auburn University. He did it without fanfare. I saw him get untold millions of appropriations for Auburn. I always thought it was a travesty that not one building at Auburn was named after Pete. In fact, I observed him get the money for a new veterinarian building on campus. Therefore, it would have been most appropriate to name the building after old Pete. However, he would not have had it any other way. Ironically, after only 12 years in the House, Hubbard became Speaker. He had a building on campus named for himself. He also became known as an inside manipulator when he orchestrated the bidding of the Auburn football games to favor his Auburn Network to retain the exclusive contract while he was the Auburn State Representative. Hubbard became a stalwart state Republican leader soon after his election to the legislature. He became chairman of the Party and then in 2010 was instrumental in helping to recruit and elect the first Republican majority in the

He took control of the House of Representatives and ran it with an iron fist. Some would say that he became a dictator and that is not far from the truth. In my lifetime, I have never seen a Speaker garner the power and total control that Hubbard wielded. It was as though he was the King of the House and the other Republicans were his loyal subjects. Thus, the adage “power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely.” The much anticipated trial that ended on June 10, 2016, culminated in Hubbard’s conviction on 12 of 23 counts of felony ethics law violations. It was great drama. It was everything that was anticipated. The outcome was what most folks expected. His sentencing is set for July 8. He will probably get prison time given the overwhelming number of convictions. There is very little likelihood that an appeal will get much traction. The Judge in the case, Jacob Walker III, did a flawless job and ruled fairly and within the law on all issues. He read the charges to the jury verbatim from the law. The jury was extremely diligent and ruled on every count exactly the way almost any jury in the state would have ruled after hearing all the facts and the law. We will discuss the ramifications of the Hubbard downfall next week. See you next week. Steve Flowers is Alabama’s leading political columnist. His weekly column appears in over 60 Alabama newspapers. He served 16 years in the state legislature. Steve may be reached at www.steveflowers.us.

THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER

reetings from the corner of Bridge and Bridge! The first official day of summer arrived in nearly triple digits on the thermometer. Summer is here alright! Much of our national discourse of late has been rooted in first and second amendment rights. American citizens enjoy the right to free speech and the right to keep and bear arms. These rights and every other right in the Bill of Rights define who we are as a nation. Second amendment rights have been at the forefront of national debate for some time now. Partisan battles continue to rule the day; at least to this point. Interpretations of the amendment vary and are at the root of the divide when it comes to the right to bear arms. When it comes to the First Amendment, however, there

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

JUNE 30, 2016 • PAGE 5

The real cost of freedom of speech is little division in terms of intent. The founders of this nation fled a government structure where freedom of speech was not a right of citizenship. In turn, they insured, first and foremost, that “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances”. Citizens of these United States have fought to uphold this freedom above all others, and with good reason. The First Amendment insures diversity of opinion and viewpoint. It protects every citizen from governmental influence that seeks to control or manipulate individual right.

REV. JONATHAN YARBORO First Presbyterian

I am a firm believer in the First Amendment and all it stands for. I would not want to live in a land where a person could be punished for expressing their opinion. I believe in protecting that right for people I disagree with, even those I ardently disagree with. What troubles me is not the presence of the amendment. There is a part of the discussion of First Amendment rights that does not appear to be happening. It has to do with what some might call “ripple effects” or “collateral damage”.

As a Pastor who preaches at least 50 sermons each year, I exercise my Presbyterian right to free speech. I do not have to clear my message with anyone before it is shared. Maybe if I did, fewer people would fall asleep in church, but I digress! While I am free to preach as I feel called to, I have no control over the way anyone hearing my message interprets it. Once the words flow freely from my mouth, they cease to be free. They obtain a cost as soon as I utter them. In other words, we pay for the words we utter. Anytime you or I freely express ourselves, the meter immediately starts ticking. Some of the words we utter turn a profit. They encourage, empower, and challenge those who hear them. Other words we utter sink like the proverbial lead balloon.

They descend into an abyss dragging others with them. The First Amendment does not offer any wisdom about hearing free speech. There is no amendment dedicated to the balance of the equation. What is a citizen of our nation or any nation for that matter to do with free speech of the hateful kind? Every child of God is accountable for the words they utter. Every child of God is equally accountable for their response to the words of others. Some free speech is also hate speech. The words alone do not translate into hateful action. Someone has to embrace those words for that to happen. Rev. Yarboro is the Pastor of First Presbyterian Church, Wetumpka

Religion Briefs • Episcopal Church of the Epiphany On Sunday, July 3 A Morning Prayer worship service will be held at 10:30 a.m., with coffee hour to follow. For more information, visit the church website: http://epiphanytallassee.org/ • St. Vincent de Paul OUR LIFE’S JOURNEY is a service of St. Vincent de Paul Church and airs weekly from 8 - 8:30 a.m. on 580 WACQ and FM 101.1 in Tallassee. Listen Live on www. wacqradio.com or the TuneIn app on your smartphone. The pastor of St. Vincent de Paul is Monsignor Charles Troncale. July 3 - One Church part 2 July 17 - Apostolic Authority and the Pope July 24 - Marriage and the Eucharist part 1 July 31 - Marriage and the Eucharist part 2 August 7 - Making Catholic Moral Decisions (Jim Toner) August 14 - Making Catholic Moral Decisions (Jim Toner) August 21 - By Faith Alone part 1

August 28 - By Faith Alone part 2 September 4 - Which Came First part 1 September 11 - Which Came First part 2 • Salem Macon Baptist Church Will have our 176th Homecoming Anniversary on Sunday July 17, 2016 at 10. Rev. Marc Pargo, former pastor of SMBC, will be our speaker. Our singers will be Sweet Assurance from Montgomery, AL. A fellowship meal will follow the worship service. Please invite all former members to come and enjoy seeing old friends and relatives. Salem Macon is located at 4647 Tallapoosa Street, Notasulga, Al, 14 miles east of Tallassee and 5 miles west of Notasulga. Rev. Mike Stephens is pastor and Tim Bunn is Music Director. • First United Methodist Church Choir Camp—That Joe-he’s so dreamy! The classic Old Testament story of Joseph is retold in the exuberant times and music of the 50s. It’s surfer beats, leather jackets, and surfboards but the gospel truth remains the same…

trust the Lord with all your heart. This is a day camp open to anyone in the church or community that is entering first grade through those exiting sixth grade. We will learn an entire musical with narration, choreography, sets, and of course MUSIC. Camp hours are: Sunday, July 10, 2-4 PM, Kick-off party (mandatory) ; Monday-Thursday, July 11-14, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.; Thursday night, July 14, 7 p.m program. To register, call the church office at 283-2195 or sign up in the bulletin. The cost of camp is $10 per camper, due upon arrival to camp. • East Tallassee United Methodist Church The “River’s Edge Flea Market” is open every Saturday from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. All vendors are welcome: new items, old items, crafts, youth groups, ball teams, baked goods, produce and food. The flea market is sponsored by the East Tallassee UMC and is located across from City Hall. We will offer various priced booths. To reserve a space call Joan Wood at 334-312-4913. All proceeds raised by ETUMC will be used for church-sponsored programs.

Area Churches AME ZION Mt. Zion Chapel AME Zion 2340 Crenshaw Rd., Wetumpka 567-4413 Rogers Chapel AME Zion 709 W. Bridge St., Wetumpka 567-8144 Jackson Chapel AME Zion 4885 Coosada Rd., Coosada Jones Chapel AME Zion 2414 Ingram Rd. (Co. Rd. 3), Elmore ABUNDANT LIFE Abundant Life Church 9301 U.S. Hwy 231., Wetumpka 567-9143 ASSEMBLY OF GOD Agape Tabernacle Assembly of God 1076 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic 541-2006 Bethel Worship Center 11117 U.S. Hwy 231., Wetumpka 5675754 Crossroads Assembly of God 2534 AL Hwy 14., Millbrook 285-5545 First Assembly of God 3511 Shirley Ln., Millbrook New Home Assembly of God 5620 Caesarville Rd., Wetumpka 5692825 BAPTIST Abraham Baptist Church Millbrook Antioch Baptist Church 1115 Antioch Rd., Titus 567-2917 Beulah Baptist Church 2350 Grier Rd., Wetumpka 514-2881 Blue Ridge Baptist 4471 Jasmine Hill Rd., Wetumpka 5674325 Brookwood Baptist Grandview Rd., Millbrook Calvary Baptist 504 W. Osceola St., Wetumpka 567-4729 Central Baptist 3545 W. Central Rd., Wetumpka 541-2556 Coosada Baptist 20 Kennedy Ave., Coosada Deatsville Baptist 184 Church St., Deatsville Eclectic Baptist Church 203 Claud Rd., Eclectic 541-4444 Faith Baptist 64 Chapel Rd., Wetumpka 567-4417 First Baptist Church 205 W. Bridge St., Wetumpka 567-5191 First Baptist of Elmore Hwy. 14 Co. Rd. 74, Elmore Galilee Baptist 95 Old Georgia Rd., Wetumpka 567-4178 Good Hope Baptist 1766 S. Fleahop Rd., Eclectic Goodship Baptist Hwy. 143, Millbrook Grace Baptist Old Montgomery Hwy., Wetumpka 567-3255 Grandview Pines Baptist Deatsville Hwy., Deatsville Green Ridge Baptist 288 Turner Rd., Wetumpka 567-2486 Harvest Baptist

2990 Main St., Millbrook Hillside Baptist 405 Old Montgomery Hwy., Wetumpka Holtville Riverside Baptist 7121 Holtville Rd., Wetumpka 514-5922 Lake Elam Baptist 4060 Gober Rd., Millbrook Liberty Hill Baptist 61 Crenshaw Rd., Wetumpka 567-8750 Lighthouse Baptist 2281 Main St., Millbrook Living Water Baptist 1745 Grass Farm Rd. (Co. Rd. 80), Weoka Millbrook Baptist Millbrook 285-4731 Mitts Chapel Baptist 935 Cold Springs Rd., Deatsville 5691952 Mt. Hebron West Baptist 150 Mt. Hebron Rd., Elmore 567-4441 Mountain View Baptist 1025 Rifle Range Rd., Wetumpka 5674458 New Harmony Baptist 3094 New Harmony Rd., Marbury 3121878 New Home Baptist 1605 New Home Rd., Titus 567-0923 New Hope Baptist 6191 Lightwood Rd., Deatsville 569-1267 New Lily Green Baptist 6504 Deatsville Hwy., Deatsville New Nazareth Baptist Hwy. 143, Deatsville Pleasant Hill Baptist Pleasant Hill Rd., Eclectic 541-3460 Prospect Baptist Prospect Rd., Eclectic 567-5837 Redland Baptist 1266 Dozier Rd., Wetumpka 567-8649 Rehoberth Baptist 8110 Rifle Range Rd., Tallassee 567-9801 Rushenville Baptist 10098 Georgia Rd., Eclectic 541-2418 Saint James Baptist 1005 Nobles Rd., Wetumpka 567-6209 Saint James Baptist 101 Gantt Rd., Deatsville 569-3006 Santuck Baptist 7250 Central Plank Rd., Wetumpka 567-2364 Seman Baptist Seman, Alabama Shoal Creek Baptist 13214 Holtville Rd., Deatsville 569-2482 Springfield Baptist Hwy. 7, Millbrook Thelma Baptist 810 Weoka Rd., Wetumpka 567-3665 Titus Baptist 6930 Titus Rd., Wetumpka 334-531-2120 Tunnell Chapel Baptist 210 Central Plank Rd., Wetumpka 567-2589 Victory Baptist 5481 Main St., Millbrook Wadsworth Baptist

2780 Hwy. 143, Deatsville 569-2851 BAPTIST - MISSIONARY Atkins Hill 565 Atkins Rd., Wetumpka 567-1141 Cathmagby Baptist 3074 Mitchell Creek Rd., Wetumpka 567-4787 First Missionary Baptist at Guilfield 412 Company St., Wetumpka 567-7455 Goodhope 1389 Willow Springs Rd. Wetumpka 567-7133 Lebanon 17877 U.S. Hwy. 231, Titus 514-1097 Mount Canaan 1125 Weoka Rd., Wetumpka 567-2141 Mount Pisgah 16621 U.S. Hwy. 231, Titus 567-3668 Mt. Zion 371 AL Hwy. 14, Elmore, 567-2613 Mt. Zion #3 1813 Luke Paschal Rd., Eclectic New Home 5130 Elmore Rd., Wetumpka 567-5966 Second Missionary 760 N. Bridge St., Wetumpka 567-8601 Spring Chapel Jasmine Hill Rd., Wetumpka 567-6493 Sweetwater 163 Michael Lane, Wetumpka 334-5389415 Tabernacle Baptist 1020 W. Tallassee St., Wetumpka 5670620 BAPTIST - PRIMITIVE Bethel Old School 4625 Jackson Rd. (C.R. 103), Wetumpka Providence 4850 Chana Creek Rd., Wetumpka CATHOLIC Our Lady of Guadalupe 545 White Rd., Wetumpka 567-0311 CHURCH OF CHRIST Church of Christ of Elmore 470 Caesarville Rd., Wetumpka 567-6670 Church of Christ Grandview Pines 165 Deatsville Hwy., Millbrook Cold Springs Church of Christ 5920 Alabama Hwy. 143, Deatsville Georgia Road Church of Christ 4003 Georgia Rd., Wetumpka 567-2804 Lightwood Church of Christ 251 New Harmony Rd., Deatsville 5691510 Redland Road Church of Christ 2480 Redland Rd., Wetumpka 514-3656 Wetumpka Church of Christ W. Bridge St. At W. Main St., Wetumpka 567-6561 CHURCH OF GOD Elmore Church of God 10675 Rucker Road, Elmore Gethsemane Church of God 705 Cotton St., Wetumpka 567-9886 Church at the Brook 2890 Hwy. 14, Millbrook

Maranatha Church of God 2621 Holtville Rd., Wetumpka 567-6786 Victory Tabernacle AOH Church of God Hwy 143, Millbrook Wetumpka Church of God Hwy. 9 N. Wetumpka 215-3091 CONGREGATIONAL CHRISTIAN Cedarwood Congregational Christian 10286 US Hwy 231 N, Wetumpka 5670476 Seman Congregational Christian 15970 Central Plank Rd., Seman Union Congregational Christian 8188 Lightwood Rd., Marbury 569-2122 EPISCOPAL The Episcopal Church of the Epiphany 2602 Gilmer Ave., Tallassee 252-8618 Trinity Episcopal Church 5371 U.S. Hwy. 231, Wetumpka 567-7534 St. Michael & All Angels Church 5941 Main St., Millbrook HOLINESS New Beginnings Holiness 865 Crenshaw Rd., Wetumpka 567-9211 Summit Holiness 2050 Hwy. 14, Millbrook Temple of Deliverance Holiness 620 Alabama St., Wetumpka 514-3114 JEHOVAH’S WITNESS Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses 9235 U.S. Hwy. 231, Wetumpka 567-8100 LATTER DAY SAINTS Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints 1405 Chapel Rd., Wetumpka 567-8339 Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints Cobbs Ford Rd., Millbrook LUTHERAN Christ Lutheran Church 2175 Cobbs Ford Rd., Prattville PRESBYTERIAN First Presbyterian Church 100 W. Bridge St., Wetumpka 567-8135 Millbrook Presbyterian Corner of Main St. & Coosada Rd. Valley View Presbyterian - PCA 4125 Rifle Range Rd. Wetumpka 3862386 SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST First Elmore Seventh Day Adventist 210 Lucky Town Rd., Elmore 514-1020 INDEPENDENT METHODIST Claud Independent Methodist Church 81232 Tallassee Hwy, Eclectic 541-2552 UNITED METHODIST Cain’s Chapel United Methodist 96 Lightwood Rd., Deatsville 569-2375 Central United Methodist Church

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11721 Central Plank Rd. Central Elmore United Methodist Church 40 Hatchet St., Elmore 567-8653 First United Methodist Church 306 W. Tuskeena St., Wetumpka 5677865 First United Methodist Church 3350 Edgewood, Millbrook Harmony United Methodist Church 8000 Titus Rd., Titus Mulder Memorial United Methodist 3454 Fire Tower Rd., Wetumpka 567-4225 New Style United Methodist 64 Old Georgia Plank Spur, Wetumpka 567-9840 Oak Valley Station United Methodist 162 Parsonage Road, Tallassee 541-3924 Pierce Chapel United Methodist 1003 Pierce Chapel Rd., Santuck 2656099 Providence United Methodist 1540 Providence Rd., Titus Robinson Springs Methodist Church 5980 Main St., Millbrook Trinity United Methodist 135 Little Weoka Creek Rd., Equality 567-9997 Union United Methodist 691 Central Rd. Eclectic Wallsboro United Methodist 11066 US Hwy. 231, Wetumpka CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE Millbrook Church of the Nazarene 3251 Browns Rd., Millbrook PENTECOSTAL Faith Deliverance Church 475 Jackson St., Elmore 567-9209 OTHER Central Bible Chapel 3630 Edgewood Rd., Millbrook Chapel of Praise Hwy. 14, Millbrook Cornerstone Full Gospel 9301 US Hwy. 231, Wetumpka 567-9143 East Chapel MP Church Airport Rd., Millbrook Grace Bible Church 2251 Main St., Millbrook Gracepoint Community Church 78223 Tallassee Highway, Wetumpka 514-9292 New Life Church - Millbrook Sanctuary Worship Center 1688 Ceasarville Rd., Wetumpka Servant Fellowship Church P O Box 1423, Wetumpka 567-2190 servantfellowshipchurch@windstream.net The Worship Center 2705 Williams Rd., Wetumpka Time of Refreshing Fellowship 117 E. Bridge St., Wetumpka 567-7750 Victory Temple (Pentecostal church) 1173 Old Montgomery Hwy., Wetumpka 567-7779 Words of Life Church 105 Cousins Rd., Wetumpka 514-2730

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JUNE 30, 2016 • PAGE 7

Area Calendar June 30

MOURNING TO MORNING: Mourning to Morning, a Christian growth group for mothers who have lost a child, will meet Thursday, June 30, at 6:00 p.m. at Grace Baptist Church in Wetumpka. Linda Darnell will have a devotional message and Alice Scarborough will have the program. A light meal will be served. For more information call 334-567-8754 or email us at mourningtomorning@gmail.com. Find us on Facebook, Mourning to Morning Group.

July 2

FAMILY AND FRIENDS DAY: Tallassee Community Outreach will host the 2nd annual Family and Friends Day on July 2 at the Jordanville basketball court at the Tallassee Housing Authority. The event will begin at 2p.m and last until the fun ends. Admission is free. There will food, fun and entertainment for all.

July 4

CELEBRATION PARTY: Living Word Wetumpka will be hosting a free Community Celebration Party on July 4 from 4 p.m. - 9 p.m. There will be live music, bouncy house for the kids, games and activities for young and old, and Christian karaoke. Food & drinks will be served. Everyone is invited! This event is free to the public! Come join us for an afternoon of fun. We are located at 500 Hwy 170 Wetumpka. Call (334)3991486 for more info.

July 8

WOODCARVING SCHOOL: The 31st Annual Southeastern Woodcarving School and Competition will be July 8 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Wetumpka Civic Center. For more information or to register go to www.centralalwoodcarving.com.

July 11 - 15

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL: Grace Baptist Church is hosting vacation Bible school July 11-15 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Registration begins at 5:30 p.m. each night. For more information or to pre-register, call 334-5673255 or email at wetumpkagrace@gmail.com Grace Baptist Church is located at 304 Old Montgomery Highway behind the Wetumpka McDonalds and Gassett Funeral Home. VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL: Calvary Baptist

Wetumpka will be offering Vacation Bible School to children age 3 through 6th grade. The dates are July 11 – July 15 from 6:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The theme this year is “Submerged” – Finding Truth Below the Surface, Psalm 139: 23-24. For more information please contact the church office 334-567-4729 or visit our website www.calvarybaptistwetumpka.org

July 12

ARCHERY: Archery Class Registration for boys and girls ages 10-18 will be 6/20 - 7/8. Classes will begin 7/12 thru 7/28. It will meet each Tuesday and Thursday at 8:30 am at the recreation center. Cost is $40 for new shooters and $25 for returning shooters

July 13

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

July 31

BACK TO SCHOOL: Calvary Baptist Wetumpka will be hosting our Annual “Back -2- School Bash on July 31 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. For more information on this event, please contact the church office 334-5674729 or visit our website www.calvarybaptistwetumpka. org

ONGOING EVENTS POOL SEASON: The Tallassee Pool season for 2016 will end Saturday, July 30. Hours of operation will be Monday-Saturday from 1pm-5pm. Daily pass is $3 per day and individual pass is $45, family pass for up to 4 in same household is $60 and 5 or more $75 for season. First session of swim lessons for ages 4 and up (must be 4 by time of lesson) will begin June 13-June 24, Second session will be June 27 –July 8 (closed July 4) Third session will be July 11-22. Registration fee for Tiny Tots is $55 and Levels 1-6 will be $65. You may register at Recreation Department until Thursday, May 26 and after May 26 please register at pool. WATER AEROBICS: Water Aerobics classes will begin June 28th and go thru July 28th. Classes will be each Tuesday and Thursday night at 7:00 pm at

the City Pool. No need to register...just pay $3 each day you exercise. Lap swimming will also be available during that time if you do not want to participate in the aerobic class. SWIM LESSONS: First session of swim lessons for ages 4 and up (must be 4 by time of lesson) will run through June 24. Second session will be June 27 – July 8 (closed July 4) Third session will be July 11-22. Registration fee for Tiny Tots is $55 and Levels 1-6 will be $65. You may register at Recreation Department until Thursday, May 26 and after May 26 please register at pool.

SPORTS

PAGE 8 • JUNE 30, 2016

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Cory Diaz / The Observer

Above, Elmore County rising senior quarterback Will Venable throws a pass at the Passing League 7-on-7 event hosted by Wetumpka Monday at Hohenberg Field. Right, Elmore County rising junior linebacker Ryan Orr, left, and rising senior linebacker Keshaan Bowman wrap up an Alabama Christian Academy wide receiver during a game at the Wetumpka-hosted Passing League 7-on-7 event Monday at Hohenberg Field.

Panthers go winless at 7-on-7 event

By CORY DIAZ Sports Editor

Elmore County came up empty at the Passing League 7-on-7 event Monday hosted by Wetumpka at Hohenberg Field. Competing amongst six total teams, the Panthers went 0-3 on the lightning-shortened afternoon, falling to Alabama Christian Academy, 14-7, the host Indians, 25-7, and CarverMontgomery, 17-10, in 20-minute contests that featured a running clock. Booker T. Washington (Tuskegee) and Montgomery-Catholic were also on hand.

In all three games, ECHS jumped out to good starts offensively, scoring a touchdown on its opening series against ACA and Wetumpka, but struggled to sustain the continuity. “This was our first time out there competing this summer, and right now we’re working on timing,” Panther head football coach Norman Dean said. “It’s a lot different running route against competition like that. We do it a little bit with what we call half-skelly, which is 7-on-7 with ourselves. But out there, you have to run your routes a little faster and a little sharper. We’ll keep working on it and hopefully we’ll hit the ground running by

August.” Rising senior quarterback Will Venable threw three scores, two to incoming freshman Keshawn Benson to lead the offense, and two interceptions. Junior Terrence Head caught his team’s other touchdown and threw a pick at quarterback. Defensively, opponents found the end zone on seven of 12 series versus ECHS, who forced a three-and-out on the other five possessions. With kickoff to the 2016 season 50 days – Elmore County will host Montgomery Academy Aug. 19 – Dean said his coaching staff are still looking for the team’s best.

“It’s a kind of an extension of spring – we will figure out who can fill what spots. What can we do well and try to accent that?” Dean said. “We try to identify what’s not working very good and try to get better where we struggle. “I thought we moved the ball very well against pretty good competition. We’ll work on our route combinations, get them a little crisper and we’ll get our timing a little bit. Defensively, we’ve got to find some guys to really step up and anchor down that defense. We’re working on it all.” The Panthers will return to Wetumpka for a 7-on-7 July 11.

AHSAA hands ECHS fines for six ejections in 2015-16 By CORY DIAZ Sports Editor

Elmore County High racked up the second-most number of athletic fines and ejections in the tri-county area for the 2015-16 school year, according to the annual list released Friday by the Alabama High School Athletic Association. ECHS collected six fines totaling $800, tying fellow county school Stanhope Elmore, while Montgomery’s newest high school Park Crossing had the most with seven, coming out to $1,000. For the 2014-15 school year, Elmore County picked up one fine. Other county schools,

ECHS Class 4A rival had two fines, Wetumpka only had one, while other county rival Tallassee didn’t get hit with a fine. This year, 75 schools did not receive a fine. Head football coach Norman Dean garnered a $300 fine for his ejection in the Elmore County High football team’s season opener at St. James Aug. 31. Football was hit with another fine, a student ejection against Tallassee, for $100. Three ECHS basketball student-athletes were each ejected and given a fine on Jan. 11 against St. James, and the soccer team was tagged on April 12 versus rival Holtville.

Submitted / The Herald

Elmore County head football coach Norman Dean celebrates a touchdown against rival Tallassee during the 2015 season.

Summer means black bears on the move but no cause for alarm STAFF REPORT TPI Staff

School is out, the temperature is rising and the beaches are calling – a typical summer in Alabama. Add to that summertime list an increase in black bear sightings outside the animal’s primary ranges in the state. Most recently, numerous sightings of a black bear were reported in both Oxford, Ala., and Tallapoosa County, where the bear was observed eating from trash cans. Seeing a black bear in Alabama is uncommon and exciting, but it is no cause for alarm. “All bears sighted this year have been behaving normally and exhibiting a natural fear of humans,” said Steve Bryant, District 2 Supervising Wildlife Biologist for the Alabama Division of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries (WFF). “So far there are no reports of bears acclimating to human activities or causing any property damage.” Alabama’s relatively low black bear population appears

to be on the rise. A small population exists in Mobile and Washington counties, but bears migrating from Georgia have established a viable population in northeast Alabama as well. WFF is currently working with Auburn University researchers and other state and federal agencies to collect data on the state’s black bear population and movements. “Late spring and early summer is usually when you’ll see sub-adult males that have been expelled from their mother’s territory,” Bryant said. “They are often spotted while searching for a place to establish a new home range. Black bear mothers occasionally allow a sub-adult female to become established within her home range, but she won’t tolerate any of her male offspring doing the same. Additionally, larger adult males will often wander for miles during this time of year in search of receptive females.” Black bear is a protected species in Alabama. Shooting at one is a Class A misdemean-

or, which carries a potential minimum fine of $2,000. Other penalties for firing at a black bear include the potential loss of hunting and fishing license privileges for three years and possible jail time. Bears are typically secretive, shy animals that avoid human interaction. To prevent accidently attracting one to your home, feed pets just enough food that they can consume in one meal. If bears have been reported in your area, wait to put your household trash out until the day of pick-up. Secure uneaten pet food, trash bins, bird and other wildlife feeders as they are easy pickings for hungry young bears. What should you do if you are lucky enough to encounter/ observe a black bear? WFF offers these suggestions: • Do not be frightened. • Do not approach the animal. • Do not run from the bear; back away slowly. • Stand tall and upright and make loud noises. • Avoid direct eye contact with the bear.

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A small population of black bears exists in Mobile and Washington counties and are on the move to establish a new home range or in search of mates.

• Make sure the bear has an unobstructed direction to escape. • Never purposely feed a bear. • Never approach a bear with cubs; this will provoke an attack. “These animals are an import-

ant wildlife resource in Alabama woodlands,” Bryant said. “If you have an unexpected encounter with a black bear, don’t panic. Consider yourself lucky to have had the experience.”