All-area Volleyball Team inside today
McElroy has book signing in Eclectic
Meet Lilo, Elmore County’s Pet of the Week
SPORTS, Page 8
LOCAL, Page 2
HSEC NEWS, Page 7
Eclectic Observer The
WEDNESDAY • NOVEMBER 28, 2018
TheWetumpkaHerald.com
Vol. 29, No. 48
County renews contract
Santa and Mrs. Claus are expected to make a guest appearance during Eclectic’s ‘A Season of Hope’ holiday festivities. File / The Observer
Commission votes to renew governmental affairs contract By AMALIA KORTRIGHT Bureau Chief
The Elmore County Commission unanimously voted Monday evening to renew a governmental affairs service contract with a firm that helps protect local interests in Montgomery and shape local legislation. “They have represented us the entire time of our terms,” commission chairman Troy Stubbs said of the Crosby Drinkard Group, LLC. “They’ve done an excellent job over the last two years. They’re local people and they care about our county.” Stubbs said the Crosby Drinkard Group, LLC helps the county move forward with local legislation. “They focus on the immediate interests of our county. For example, in years past, we passed Sunday alcohol sales. (It) was a local piece of legislation that impacted Elmore County businesses,” Stubbs said. “This particular group helps us with the preparation of the legislation so that it will accomplish the goals that we have.” Additionally, Stubbs said the group represents Elmore County’s interests regarding statewide legislation that affects the county. “If there are things that come up at the See COMMISSION • Page 2
Today’s
Weather
51 32 High
‘A Season of Hope’ Eclectic getting ready for annual holiday event By AMALIA KORTRIGHT Bureau Chief
H
undreds of residents and visitors are expected to gather in Eclectic’s downtown area on Dec. 8 for the town’s annual Christmas parade, holiday market and tree-lighting ceremony.
“You get an opportunity to get out there and spend the holidays with your neighbors,” assistant town clerk Elizabeth Geer said. “Last year, we had a lot of people come. I know everybody said they had a good time.” At the events, visitors will have the opportunity to make contributions to Donalsonville, Georgia, which was devastated by Hurricane Michael. See HOLIDAY • Page 2
Small Business Saturday was a success, retailers say
Low
By CARMEN RODGERS Staff Writer THURSDAY: HIGH 61 LOW 44
Despite college football rivalry games and dreary weather, locally owned shops and retail stores in Tallassee and Eclectic seemed to experience higher-than-average sales during Small Business Saturday, owners said. In downtown Tallassee, shoppers visited the newly opened Sistruck, All Things Desired, where Cathy Butler and Mary Ellen Peters were busy helping customers. “We have been busy today,” Butler said, “especially earlier in the day. At one time it was really busy.” Several shoppers hit the local stores on Black Friday for some Christmas shopping. See SMALL • Page 2
Carmen Rodgers / The Observer
In downtown Tallassee, shoppers visited the newly opened Sistruck, All Things Desired, where Cathy Butler and Mary Ellen Peters were busy helping customers during Small Business Saturday.
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PAGE 2 • NOVEMBER 28, 2018
Holiday
TheWetumpkaHerald.com
continued from page 1
THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER
Small
continued from page 1
Currently, Geer said town officials are looking for ways to get Donalsonville residents involved in the festivities. The holiday market, featuring local food and craft vendors, will start at the Eclectic Warehouse at 8 a.m. and end at 4 p.m. “The vendors will benefit, and the residents benefit for shopping local,” Geer said. Geer said the parade, which is set to start at 2 p.m., will involve local schools, businesses, civic groups, antique vehicles, winners of the 2019 Miss Alabama Cotton Queen pageant, and Santa and Mrs. Claus. Geer said last year’s parade included about 70 entries. Immediately after the parade ends, the town’s tree-lighting ceremony will begin at the warehouse doors. Geer said the tree will later be moved to town hall for the enjoyment of all who drive by. In honor of the town’s recent efforts to provide aid to Donaldsonville, Geer said the theme of this year’s events is “A Season of Hope.” “We adopted Donalsonville, Georgia, so the theme was played off that,” Geer said. “I hope that we all have a good Christmas, but I hope that we’ll be able to provide Donalsonville with a good Christmas as well. I hope everybody comes out and spreads some love.”
Commission
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Statehouse that would directly or indirectly impact Elmore County, they help us to be aware of those things and to work with our local delegation to protect our interests,” Stubbs said. Before making a final decision, Stubbs said he spoke to two similar groups over the last six to eight weeks. “They did not present a specific contract, but they shared some of their thoughts on how they might be able to help the county,” Stubbs said. In other business, the commission unanimously approved retail table-wine license and retail beer license requests from Hog Wild BBQ, LLC in Deatsville.
Carmen Rodgers / The Tribune
Kendra Hathcock set up shop in downtown Tallassee early last weekend to catch the Small Business Saturday shoppers.
“We were really busy yesterday,” Butler said. Over in Eclectic, shoppers also visited the stores early Saturday morning. “Today, so far, at least 300 people have been in and out,” said Original Grace Boutique’s Laci Lee. Like small businesses in Tallassee, Eclectic businesses were appeared busier than average during Black Friday. “It was extremely busy,” Lee said. First observed on Nov. 27, 2010, Small Business Saturday is a counterpart to Black Friday and Cyber Monday, which feature bigbox retail and e-commerce stores, respectively. By contrast, Small Business Saturday encourages holiday shoppers to patronize small, local brick-and-mortar businesses. While Small Business Saturday is designated for locally owned shops and stores, Tallassee Chamber of Commerce director Jerry Cunningham encouraged shoppers to always shop locally whenever possible. “Shopping local supports the community and that is a win, win,” he said.
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THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER
TheWetumpkaHerald.com
NOVEMBER 28, 2018 • PAGE 3
The kingdom of Heaven on Earth?
G
reetings from the corner of Bridge and Bridge! I hope everyone is still basking in the glow of Thanksgiving. No, I am not talking about the Iron Bowl! I am talking about the blessings that accompany the season of giving thanks. My family loves Disney World. We are one of the many families who embrace its motto, “The Happiest Place on Earth.” We have been several times as a family and will go again. Sure, when looked at from a certain angle, Disney World is the pinnacle of American capitalism. It is more than simply expensive. The business machine of Disney enterprises is intricate and complex. In short, they know how to get people to spend a lot of money and have a good time doing it.
When observed from another angle, Disney World is also the pinnacle of customer service. The colossal business machine knows that large crowds make the business run. As such, they cater to the needs of hungry consumers. This past week, my family visited another special place. My nephew Benjamin, who is a senior in the marching band at Homewood High School, joined 379 other marching Patriots for this year’s Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade. As soon as we found out he would be there, my family decided we would be spending Thanksgiving in New York City as well. I love New York City for many of the same reasons I love Disney World. However, I would never identify New York City as holding any
REV. JOHNATHAN YARBORO First Presbyterian Church
position on a “happy place” scale. I have traveled to NYC several times. The wonder of the city is always accompanied by painful reminders of the downsides of our capitalist society. The disparity between haves and have-nots is, at times, overwhelming. This visit changed my attitude towards NYC for the better in some respects. The change was not a glossing over of reality. It was more about embracing a different perspective. I have never seen as many
people in the city as were there for Thanksgiving. In truth, I have never visited the city during a major holiday. It was the coldest Thanksgiving Day on record, with a wind chill of five degrees. There were throngs of people everywhere. I have to confess I was a bit anxious for this trip because of those factors and others. Huge crowds make me nervous. I despise cold weather. Our nation seems to be more hostile and divided than ever. What a great way to spend Thanksgiving! I was pleasantly surprised to find all of those things working themselves out in a positive sense. People behaved civilly, in general. It wasn’t engineered like it can be at Disney World. For the most part, it just happened. Almost every person I
engaged, for whatever reason, appeared to be thankful. Store clerks, restaurant workers, security personnel, public servants, and most folks on the street shared some sense of gratitude for life. This helped put the harsh realities of life in a major city in perspective. Being surrounded by people of different cultures speaking different languages is a blessing, not a threat. Being immersed in groups of people with differing life experiences is a blessing, not a threat. Sharing thoughts and feelings of gratitude is good for us all. Could NYC be the kingdom of heaven on earth? After last week, I am beginning to think it can be. Rev. Yarboro is the pastor of First Presbyterian Church in Wetumpka.
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 5679143 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 5412556 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 1554 Hwy. 143, Millbrook 285-0094 Grace Baptist Old Montgomery Hwy., Wetumpka 567-3255 Grandview Pines Baptist 346 Deatsville Hwy., Millbrook 285-5125 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), Titus 514-7304 Millbrook Baptist 3431 Browns Road, Millbrook 285-4731 Mitts Chapel Baptist 935 Cold Springs Rd., Deatsville 5691952 Crossroads Community Church 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 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 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
Thank you for your support 3 years in a row! We sincerely hope you will allow us to meet your healthcare needs.
Community Hospital 334-283-6541 • www.chal.org 805 Friendship Road, Tallassee
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 2080 Main Street, Millbrook Wetumpka Church of God Hwy. 9 N. Wetumpka 215-3091 CONGREGATIONAL CHRISTIAN Cedarwood Congregational Christian 10286 US Hwy 231 N, Wetumpka 567-0476 Seman Congregational Christian 15970 Central Plank Rd., Seman Union Congregational Christian 8188 Lightwood Rd., Marbury 569-2122 EPISCOPAL The Episcopal Church of the Epiphany 2602 Gilmer Ave., Tallassee 252-8618 Trinity Episcopal Church 5371 U.S. Hwy. 231, Wetumpka 567-7534 St. Michael & All Angels Church 5941 Main St., Millbrook HOLINESS New Beginnings Holiness 865 Crenshaw Rd., Wetumpka 567-9211 Summit Holiness 2050 Hwy. 14, Millbrook Temple of Deliverance Holiness 620 Alabama St., Wetumpka 514-3114 JEHOVAH’S WITNESS Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses 9235 U.S. Hwy. 231, Wetumpka 567-8100 LATTER DAY SAINTS Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints 1405 Chapel Rd., Wetumpka 567-8339 Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints Cobbs Ford Rd., Millbrook LUTHERAN Christ Lutheran Church 2175 Cobbs Ford Rd., Prattville PRESBYTERIAN First Presbyterian Church 100 W. Bridge St., Wetumpka 567-8135 Millbrook Presbyterian Corner of Main St. & Coosada Rd. Valley View Presbyterian - PCA 4125 Rifle Range Rd. Wetumpka 386-2386 SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST First Elmore Seventh Day Adventist 210 Lucky Town Rd., Elmore 514-1020 INDEPENDENT METHODIST Claud Independent Methodist Church 81232 Tallassee Hwy, Eclectic 541-2552
UNITED METHODIST Cain’s Chapel United Methodist 96 Lightwood Rd., Deatsville 569-2375 Central United Methodist Church 11721 Central Plank Rd. Central Elmore United Methodist Church 40 Hatchet St., Elmore 567-8653 First United Methodist Church 306 W. Tuskeena St., Wetumpka 567-7865 First United Methodist Church 3350 Edgewood, Millbrook Harmony United Methodist Church 8000 Titus Rd., Titus Mulder Memorial United Methodist 3454 Fire Tower Rd., Wetumpka 567-4225 New Style United Methodist 64 Old Georgia Plank Spur, Wetumpka 567-9840 Oak Valley Station United Methodist 162 Parsonage Road, Tallassee 541-3924 Pierce Chapel United Methodist 1003 Pierce Chapel Rd., Santuck 265-6099 Providence United Methodist 1540 Providence Rd., Titus Robinson Springs Methodist Church 5980 Main St., Millbrook Trinity United Methodist 135 Little Weoka Creek Rd., Equality 567-9997 Union United Methodist 691 Central Rd. Eclectic Wallsboro United Methodist 11066 US Hwy. 231, Wetumpka CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE Millbrook Church of the Nazarene 3251 Browns Rd., Millbrook PENTECOSTAL Faith Deliverance Church 475 Jackson St., Elmore 567-9209 Victory Temple 1173 Old Montgomery Hwy., Wetumpka 567-7779 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 Words of Life Church 105 Cousins Rd., Wetumpka 514-2730
Steve Baker, Publisher 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 • NOVEMBER 28, 2018
Our
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Telephone: (334) 567-7811 | Fax: (334) 567-3284 Email: news@thewetumpkaherald.com Management Steve Baker Publisher, 256-414-3190 steve.baker@alexcityoutlook.com Angela Mullins Business Manager, 256-414-3191 angela.mullins@alexcityoutlook.com Jimmy Wigfield Managing Editor, 256-414-3179 jimmy.wigfield@alexcityoutlook.com Tippy Hunter Advertising Director, 256-414-3177 marketing@alexcityoutlook.com Audra Spears Art Director, 256-414-3189 audra.spears@alexcityoutlook.com Betsy Iler Magazine Managing Editor, 256-234-4282 betsy.iler@alexcityoutlook.com Erin Burton Circulation Manager, 256-234-7779 erin.burton@alexcityoutlook.com Lee Champion Production Manager, 256-414-3017 lee.champion@alexcityoutlook.com Newsroom Amalia Kortright Bureau Chief & Staff Writer, 334-350-3919 amalia.kortright@thewetumpkaherald.com Santana Wood Design Editor, 256-234-3412 santana.wood@thewetumpkaherlad.com Lizi Arbogast Sports Editor, 256-414-3180 lizi.arbogast@thewetumpkaherald.com Caleb Turrentine Sports Writer, 334-350-3922 caleb.turrentine@thewetumpkaherald.com Advertising Sales Marilyn Hawkins Sales Manager, 334-350-3917 marilyn.hawkins@thewetumpkaherald.com Kat Raiford Marketing Consultant, 334-444-8981 kat.raiford@tallasseetribune.com
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The
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TheWetumpkaHerald.com
A few last thoughts on our general election
O
ur new 55th governor looked and sounded more like the old Kay Ivey, than the one we have seen the past few years and during the campaign. She was vibrant, succinct to the point, had a perfectly timed and unscripted victory speech. Her green jacket was becoming. She will be a good governor. She will tackle the tough issues the state must face in the next four years, especially our infrastructure needs. She is extremely qualified and ready to be governor. She is a real Republican with a real Republican super majority state legislature. There are 27 Republicans and eight Democrats in the senate. The numbers are 77 Republicans and 28 Democrats in the house. Kay also has a unique and advantageous relationship with all of the Alabama senate. She was the presiding officer of the senate the last six years and was considered fair and impartial. She worked with and developed a very good working relationship with the GOP leadership. The three primary leaders of the senate, Del Marsh, Jabo Waggoner and Greg Reed, have a close knit, trusting bond with Kay. Kay not only becomes the 55th governor, she is the first Republican female elected as governor and the second female governor in our state history. Ironically, Kay cut her teeth in politics working in our first female governor, Lurleen Wallace’s campaign for governor. Kay was a student at Auburn University. Little did she know that 52 years later she would be the second female governor of our state. The more things change, the more they stay the same in Alabama politics. The Alabama that Kay and I grew up in and knew 50 years ago was totally
STEVE FLOWERS Columnist Democratic. In fact, the word tantamount was used continually to describe the dominance of the Democratic Party. It was an accurate statement. The dictionary describes tantamount as “the same as.” Today I use the word tantamount when explaining winning the Republican Primary in Alabama. We were a one-party state 50 years ago and we are a one-party state in statewide politics, today. The difference is we changed parties. We are now a Republican state, yesteryear we were a Democratic state. Winning the Republican nomination for statewide office in Alabama is tantamount to election. The proof is in the pudding. We have 29 elected statewide offices in Alabama, all 29 are held by Republicans. I’m not prophetic, but allow me to share a short passage with you from my column the week before the election. “In bygone days the Democratic primary nomination was tantamount to election. Today, it is just the other way around. Nowadays, winning the Republican primary is tantamount to election in the good ol’ Heart of Dixie. The more things change the more they stay the same in Alabama politics. Boy, when we change, we really change. We were a one-party state then and we are a one-party state now. When Kay won the GOP mantle back in June, she essentially won the governor’s race.” That was my statement Wednesday before the election. My belief
was overwhelmingly confirmed on Tuesday, Nov. 6. We are a Republican state and I don’t see it changing anytime soon. That was my foremost takeaway from the election. My second observation is akin to my first, we are so Republican that folks are just voting a straight ticket. We have joined the rest of the nation in that we simply vote straight Republican or straight Democratic. Our voting has become nationalized. Over 65 percent of Alabamians voted a straight lever ticket. It is primarily along racial lines. Alabamians are essentially African American Democrats or Caucasian Republicans. Therefore, Alabama is a red Republican state for statewide politics. However, just the opposite is true for the metropolitan counties of Jefferson and Montgomery. If you are going to win a countywide office in these locales, you must run as a Democrat. The third takeaway was the tremendous turnout at the polls. A record-breaking 50 percent of Alabamians voted on Nov. 6. Again, this was driven by national politics. Folks are either hardcore, conservative Republicans or hardcore liberal Democrats. There are few in between. Alabamians voted the national party brand. It is apparent that more Alabamians like and agree with Donald Trump than they do with Nancy Pelosi, Hillary Clinton or Barack Obama. See you next week. Steve is Alabama’s leading political columnist. His weekly column is seen in more than 60 Alabama newspapers. He served 16 years in the state legislature. Steve may be reached at www.steveflowers. us.
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USPS-005-022 ISSN: 1536-688X The Eclectic Observer 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 Eclectic Observer, P. O. Box 99, Wetumpka, AL 36092-0099. Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. manages The Alexander City Outlook, The Dadeville Record, The Wetumpka Herald, The Tallassee Tribune, The Eclectic Observer, Lake Magazine, Lake Martin Living, Elmore County Living, Kenneth Boone Photography and a commercial web printing press. © 2016 Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. All rights reserved and any reproduction of this issue is prohibited without the consent of the editor or publisher.
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Zombie apocalypse has arrived I
’m pretty sure I am living through the zombie apocalypse. Looking at the Gulf of Mexico, waves rhythmically crash onto the beach. I notice two people sitting on a concrete bench. Backs turned to the blue horizon, their heads stare down at the tiny screens anchored in their hands. The only hint of life is the twitching of their thumbs, repeatedly asking the screen to keep them entertained. The couple is somewhere — but certainly not a few yards from Mother Nature’s big show. I am increasingly worried about the unintended impact of people disengaging from life, addicted — for a lack of a better word — to tiny devices in their hands. Their world is less about where they are or whom they are with at the moment and more about the environment pouring from a tiny screen. Looking back at the concrete bench, waves dancing behind the couple, they have yet to move or say a word to each other. Mother Nature is doing all she can do short of splashing them with salt water. You don’t have to look too far to see what I’m talking about.
LEONARD WOOLSEY Columnist
People are so engrossed in the tiny screens in their hands they blindly plod along city streets, dangerously unaware of their surroundings. Restaurants are filled with couples on dates, both pouring their valuable attention into millions of pixels instead of each other. And more and more you see entire families sitting around a table, each with a device in their hands, totally disengaged from each other. This zombie apocalypse could change the world as we know it. Humans are social animals. And the art of conversation is a skill you hone over time, drawing out and listening to others. And as predictable as the algorithm feed is before your eyes, real life is as equally unpredictable. While one is based on feeding you the cotton candy of what you already like, the latter is like a form of Russian roulette — you never know exactly what will come your way. And therein lies the fun, the develop-
ment of skills, the appreciation for others and different points of view. I can’t help but wonder if our new zombie culture won’t lead to our undoing or at least severely damage our ability to build successful families, friendships and society. Today’s zombie culture is fed by a diet of predetermined content and interests and the reinforced by like opinions. The very platform heralded as the opening Pandora’s box of information is instead closely controlled by sophisticated formulas designed to sharpen, narrow and shallow out our pools of interests. We are, technologically speaking, not too far removed from cattle being led to the slaughterhouse. We could all end up as tasteless and homogenized hamburger. I look back at the couple at the water’s edge. I wish they would speak to each other, learn something new about the other, and build a deep well of conversations to one day build upon. But, then again, zombies don’t feel or speak. Leonard Woolsey is president and publisher at The Daily News in Galveston County, Texas.
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January trial set for Elmore murder suspect
Butterfly Bridge welcomes ‘superhero’ facility dog
By AMALIA KORTRIGHT Bureau Chief
By AMALIA KORTRIGHT Bureau Chief
Staff at the Butterfly Bridge Children’s Advocacy Center locations in Elmore, Autauga and Chilton counties have been working hard over the past few months to introduce a new co-worker to their communities. According to handler Stephanie Harris, Butterfly Bridge’s new facility dog, a Golden RetrieverLabrador mix named Zurg, joined the team in August and has been working with children of all ages who have suffered from abuse and neglect. Harris said Zurg graduated from Canine Companions for Independence in Orlando, Fla., after about two years of training. Before they received Zurg for free, Harris said Butterfly Bridge had to go through a rigorous application process. Currently, Harris said Zurg knows about 40 commands ranging from sitting and staying to giving high fives and flipping light switches. Harris said Zurg’s learning process is ongoing. “We’re learning how to bowl, so we can give kids an activity while they’re waiting,� Harris said. “He’s learning to push the ball and knock over the pins.� Before Zurg’s arrival, Harris said there had been only one other facility dog in the state, based out of Child Protect in Montgomery. “They were working the whole state, so we reached out to (the dog’s handler) and we went
NOVEMBER 28, 2018 • PAGE 5
Amalia Kortright / The Observer
Over the past several months, Golden Retriever-Labrador mix Zurg has been working with abused and neglected children undergoing forensic interviews, medical examinations, therapy sessions and court hearings. Pictured above is Stephanie Harris and Zurg.
through the process of completing the application,� Harris said. “We just thought it would help the kids in our counties.� Harris said Zurg has been present with children for forensic interviews, therapy sessions, medical examinations and court hearings. For many of those children, Butterfly Bridge assistant director Emily Hutcheson said Zurg has had a calming effect. “It’s amazing to witness how Zurg can be such a comfort to the children during such a difficult time. He helps to calm their
nerves and ease their fears,� Hutcheson said. “He truly is a superhero in their eyes.� Currently, Harris said Zurg is at Butterfly Bridge’s Elmore County location as often as needed and has been a source of empowerment. “He’s a tool in the toolbox,� Harris said. “Some of the kids have been more open to talking, especially in therapy. A couple of interviewers have noticed a difference in forensic interviews from before we got him. He’s quite special, for sure.�
The trial date was recently scheduled for an Elmore man accused of fatally shooting his former employer at the victim’s Deatsville residence. Efrem Edrick Brown, 57, who lists an address on Highway 143, is slated to appear in court for a jury trial at 8:30 a.m. on Jan. 28, 2019. Brown’s plea date was scheduled for Nov. 19, and he elected to take an open plea. Brown was initially arrested by the Elmore County Sheriff on April 26 and charged with the murder Brown of 55-year-old Tony Ned Carr and was indicted in October. Authorities think Carr died before noon on April 16. On the evening of his death, Carr’s body was discovered by his wife and brother in the garage behind his home on Fern Road. Authorities initially believed Carr died as the result of blunt force trauma, but later discovered that he had been shot in the head with a .22-caliber firearm. Carr’s cell phone was missing and a large sum of money had been taken from his left pocket, leading investigators to suspect that a robbery had taken place at the time of the murder. Prior to Carr’s death, court documents state that Brown had been an employee of his. Carr reportedly told his wife, brother and best friend that he had been planning to fire Brown for lying and borrowing money. Brown was arrested after authorities searched his house, and a subsequent polygraph test and questioning by police. Brown is currently being held at the Elmore County Jail on a cash-only bond of $50,000. Brown’s attorney later filed a request to remove the cash only stipulation from his bond, and the request was denied by Elmore County District Court Judge Glenn Goggans. Murder is a Class A felony, which could result in up to $60,000 in fines and a life sentence in prison upon conviction.
Depot Players return to Tuna for holiday show By AMALIA KORTRIGHT Bureau Chief
For the second time this year, the Wetumpka Depot Players are paying a visit to the fictional town of Tuna, Texas, during its production of “A Tuna Christmas.� Depot Players executive director Kristy Meanor said the show is slated to run from Dec. 11-16, and is a follow-up to the play “Greater Tuna,� which was performed on the Depot Players’ stage in January. “If audiences did not see ‘Greater Tuna’ at the beginning of the year, it doesn’t matter. This play holds its own, has its own story and will be entertaining,� Meanor said. “The story has to do with who has the greatest Christmas display, and if one of the characters will win the best yard award for the 15th year in a row.� Meanor said “A Tuna Christmas� is the second of a trilogy of plays set in the aforementioned fictional town. All of the plays feature a two-person cast, local couple David and Brooke Brown, who perform
more than 25 different characters throughout the show. “We have this amazing husband-andwife duo. They came and did the first show for us, and they’re going to reprise their roles,� Meanor said. While juggling the roles can be challenging, Brooke Brown said she and her husband excited to play such a diverse group of people. “We really get to fall in love with these varied and challenging characters,� Brooke Brown said. “While we are reprising some roles, some characters are entirely new to this script.� “The rehearsal process is tough, with all of the lines falling on two people, but it is worth it,� David Brown added. In this show, David Brown said the backstage crew is just as important as the actors. Because of the short amount of time between scenes, Meanor said the technical mishaps that are anticipated add to the show’s comedic effect. “The shows are a riot. They’re funny to
Submitted / The Observer
David and Brooke Brown, who played about 25 characters in the Wetumpka Depot Players January production of ‘Greater Tuna,’ are returning to the theater to star in ‘A Tuna Christmas’ in mid-December.
watch because the costume changes to get them into the next character are split-second,� Meanor said. “We have a costume crew that’s backstage, right in the wing space. They don’t even have time to get in the dressing room. There’s the occasional costume flub, and the audience just rolls because you know what’s going on backstage. That’s just part of the charm of the
show.� While the holiday season can get hectic, Meanor said “A Tuna Christmas� will be a welcome distraction for audience members. “It’s just great, whenever everybody’s tired and stressed out from the holidays, just to come and enjoy something mindless,� Meanor said. “It’s just pure fun.�
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GRADE 4 WATER TREATMENT PLANT OPERATOR Starting Pay: Competitive and Dependent on Experience Level The Utilities Board of the City of Oneonta is looking for applicants to join the team as a Grade IV Water Treatment Plant Operator in a recently upgraded 3 MGD plant in a beautiful setting. The applicant must have current Grade 4 certification from the Alabama Department of Environmental Management and have experience in a water treatment plant. Must have a valid driver’s license and high school diploma/GED. The applicant must be willing to work shift work as required. The Utilities Board of the City of Oneonta is a drug free work place and offers a great benefit package that includes Blue Cross/Blue Shield insurance with a dental plan. Company paid life insurance, State of Alabama retirement, paid holidays, and vacation/sick days. Please send a resume to: WATER TREATMENT OPERATOR P.O. BOX 420, ONEONTA AL 35121 The Utilities Board of the City of Oneonta is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
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PAGE 6 • NOVEMBER 28, 2018
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PUZZLES & HOROSCOPE ARIES (March 21-April 19) Your optimism combined with persistence makes you a sure-bet winner. Your creativity and imagination prevent boredom and allow you to enjoy many situations that others could not tolerate. Romance is in the air. Tonight: Say “yesâ€? to adding more variety to your life. TAURUS (April 20-May 20) You could be up for making a change on the homefront. The choices you make reĂ…ect your personality and your artistic needs. Don’t underestimate the importance of having natural elements around you. Consider a loved one’s needs in making decisions. Tonight: Out late. GEMINI (May 21-June 20) You have a lot on your mind, yet you feel free around friends. You could be stunned by a suggestion that comes from out of left Ă„eld. You realize the importance of making a Ă„rm decision before someone changes his or her mind. Tonight: Make the most of the moment. CANCER (June 21-July 22) You are emotional, and when you feel like this, you often overspend, overeat or indulge in some type of behavior that allows you to forget your mood. Try to use self-discipline. Keep your receipts in case you change your mind in a day or so. Tonight: Let someone else pick up the tab. LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) Even if total uproar surrounds you, you will remain upbeat and unbothered. You see the glass as being half full rather than half empty. Your sincere enjoyment of people adds to the excitement of the moment. You like the cards you have been dealt. Tonight: All smiles. VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) You might want some downtime away from others. You could feel as if someone takes great pleasure in forcing you to rethink or review your ideas. However, this might not be the case. Worry less about this person; distancing yourself is a smart move. Tonight: Vanish.
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) Be aware of your immediate circle of friends. You could be tired of being so social. Even you need a break sometimes. A special person in your life delights in having more free time with you. You could discover a magical quality to the day. Tonight: Where the crowds are. SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) Pressure builds as you become more and more aware of someone’s expectations. Lighten up. You easily can meet this person’s expectations. You are more than capable of completing necessary tasks. You will become more conÄdent in the next few days. Tonight: Accept an offer. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) You might need to clear up a problem that has emerged in the past few days. You’ll relax as you see the implications of being able to open new doors. Pursue a long-term goal. Detach, and every obstacle easily melts away. Tonight: Be where good live music is played. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) One-on-one relating profoundly affects you. Let go of an underlying sense of insecurity. You now feel as if you can build on this relationship. Be open to talks, ideas and unusual options. Add more celebration to your life. Tonight: Pop a bottle of champagne before dinner. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) You could be trying too hard to make an impression on someone. Know that you don’t need to be anyone but yourself. Accept others more openly, and you will see that your interactions become more exciting as a result. Tonight: Go along with a friend’s suggestion. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20) Pace yourself, and get as much done as possible. You could be tired and withdrawn if you just toss yourself into what you must do. Slow down and relax -- you do not have endless energy. Know that you will get everything done. Tonight: Soak away stress in a hot tub.
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CARLISLE DRUG Taking applications for part-time positions Roll Off Drivers Needed Great for CAC or for our Alpine, AL location. Southern Union Students Class A or B CDL is required along with one (1) Apply in person: 12 Main Street \HDU RI YHUL¿DEOH HTXLYDOHQW Alexander City 35010 commercial truck driving experience. Must have a valid No calls accepted! and safe driving record. We offer competitive wages & a NOW HIRING FRPSUHKHQVLYH EHQH¿WV SDFNALL POSITIONS age which includes: Shoney’s in Wetumpka Medical, Dental, Vision, 401k, Apply in Person: Life Insurance, Short & Long 4700 US Highway 231 7HUP 'LVDELOLW\ 3DLG +ROLGD\V Wetumpka AL 36092 DQG 372 3OHDVH DSSO\ WKURXJK ‡&HUWL¿HG 1XUVLQJ RXU ZHEVLWH DW $VVLVWDQWV www.wcawaste.com DP SP SP SP (2( 0 ) ' 9
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Moco Transportation OTR Drivers Needed 25 yrs old, 2 yrs Exp. Hazmat Required. Good MVR. NO LOCAL RUNS Call: 1-800-328-3209
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Auctions & Sales Garage Sales Big Yard Sale Across from Horseshoe Bend School New Site Saturday 8:00am-2:00pm &ORWKHV GLVKHV ZKDWQRWV ÂżOO D EDJ IRU &RPH DQG ÂżQG ORWV of goodies!
Merchandise The Learning Tree, Inc. is Accepting Applications for 2nd, 3rd and Weekend shifts for Direct Care Applications can be picked up at: 101 S. Dubois Street Tallassee, AL 36078 Or contact Shatia Carr (334)252-0025 Ext. 101 Email: Scarr@learning-tree.org
Cemetery & Monument Lots Call 256-277-4219 To Place Your &ODVVLÂżHG $G 1RZ
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NOVEMBER 28, 2018 â&#x20AC;˘ PAGE 7
Humane Society of Elmore County News
Humane Society thanks volunteers
By REA CORD HSEC Executive Director
Pet of the Week â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Lilo
L
ilo is a Walker, Bluetick and Foxhound mix girl who is around 8 years old. She is a super sweet gal, but quite active. We can promise she will be a counter surfer in a house until she learns some rules. She has a gorgeous hound bay, is good with other dogs and just wants someone to make her a part of their family. Shelter adoption fees are $100 for dogs and $50 for cats under 1 year old. Cats 1 year old can be adopted by approved adopters for a fee of their choosing. This adoption fee completely covers the mandatory spay
or neuter, basic immunizations, de-worming, microchipping, a heartworm check for dogs, a rabies vaccination, if old enough and a free health exam with a participating veterinarian. To meet Lilo and the other pets at the shelter, visit 255 Central Plank Road in Wetumpka. For more information, visit www. elmorehumane.org, email hselco@bellsouth. net or call 334-567-3377. The shelter is open for adoptions from Monday through Friday between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. and on Saturday between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Remember the Fire and Fur Festival a couple of weeks ago by the great folks at the Madd Tatter Tattoo Studio? With the support of everyone who came out, they donated $1,700 to our shelter! That is simply fantastic, and we just want to give them a huge high-five and thanks for working so hard during their 24-hour Tattoo-a-thon, which set a state record for 383 tattoos. With Thanksgiving still fresh in everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s minds (and tummies), we continue our thanks with our annual Volunteer Appreciation event on Nov. 30 at 6 p.m. at Trinity Episcopal Church in Wetumpka. This is our chance to recognize our active volunteers and their hard work on behalf of our shelter and the animals we all want to help. Join us for something good to eat, as well as some Christmas fun and fellowship. As you are doing your Christmas shopping donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget to check out our Tails End Thrift Store, co-located at the shelter, for gifts for yourself and your friends! Our Thrift Store has clothes, linens, Christmas decorations, books, collectibles, small appliances, toys and so much more! The store is open for shopping Thursday, Friday
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1995 Harley Davison Softail Custom Lots of extras 16,800 actual miles. 6200.00 dollars. Bike is in great shape. (256)596-2394 Sell your home in the classifieds call 256.277.4219.
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2015 Wildwood 24 foot camper by Forrest River Auto slide, awning and jacks Nice, big bath, nonsmoker Used very little Asking $15,000 Call (256) 596-0019 or (256) 596-0018
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Transportation Boats & Watercraft 1993 14-foot Sylvan V-hull Boat w/drive-on trailer, 30 HP Evinrude motor, live well, WUROOLQJ PRWRU GHSWK ÂżQGHU rod holders. Asking $2800 Call Tom @ 256-307-1423
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ATV 2009 Arctic Cat 400 4x4, garage kept, 1,260 miles $2,500-OBO Call For Info 256-397-2846
Raise your hand if you want your business to make LESS money next year. We didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t think you would. Do you need to successfully market on a tight budget? Tallapoosa and Elmore County Classifieds has customizable programs available to fit any budget.
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and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and is open to receive donations those same three days from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. While at our thrift store, please thank our volunteers who work so hard receiving, sorting and selling all of the donated items. Want a personalized gift for a fellow pet lover or yourself? We are also able to make custom engraved pet ID tags in our shelter office and what better gift for any pet lover than a way to help protect their special pet! It only takes us a few minutes to make a tag and we have a wide variety of tag sizes, colors and shapes to choose from, including Alabama and Auburn tags. We even have medical alert tags for pets that might be on medications or have special needs. Prices range from $7 to $10, depending on the tag. Tags can be used for lots of things: luggage, pet crate IDs, school book bags and even cool jewelry! Stop by the shelter during our normal adoption hours between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. from Monday through Friday, and between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Saturday. We will be thrilled to make tags for many uses! We are very lucky to have such a huge extended family of supporters who help our shelter in so many ways: direct financial donations, food and supplies for our shelter, items for us to resell in our thrift store, as adopters, as promoters of spay and neuter practices, advocates of responsible pet ownership and so much more. After all the hectic pace of Black Friday, Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday, Nov. 27 was designated as â&#x20AC;&#x153;Giving Tuesday.â&#x20AC;? If you would like to donate to our shelter, but arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t in the area to stop by since it is a work day, you can donate via credit card or PayPal on our website, www.elmorehumane.org, on our Facebook page or by calling the shelter at 334-567-3377. You can send a check to us at 255 Central Plank Road in Wetumpka. We also have an endowment fund with the Central Alabama Community Foundation, if you are interested in donating to that for our long-term future. For all who support us and so many non-profit organizations in need, thank you!
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Sports
PAGE 8 • NOVEMBER 28, 2018
Visit our sister website: TallasseeTribune.com TheWetumpkaHerald.com
The
Observer
2018 All-Area Volleyball Team Player of the Year
Madison Traylor finishes off career with strong senior season By CALEB TURRENTINE Sports Writer
After losing seven seniors from the 2017 area championship squad, Elmore County needed leaders to step up this season and live up to the program’s expectations. Madison Traylor was the first one to make a mark on the team as the Panthers ran away with their ninth consecutive area championship. “Madison is just a strong leader in everything she does,” Elmore County coach Kim Moncrief said. “She takes everything seriously and is a dedicated player. She was that girl that showed up every time as a leader. We’re going to miss her.” Traylor led the team with 203 kills across 29 matches. She is the AllArea Volleyball Player of the Year. The Panthers finished 21-8 and did not drop a set in area play but fell in the first round of the super regionals. “It didn’t end the way we wanted it to but I wouldn’t trade my senior season for anything,” Traylor said. “I don’t know what I’m going to do without volleyball now.” While Traylor was the No. 1 option on the front row for the Panthers, her defensive abilities did not go
File / The Observer
Holtville coach Alison Franklin took the Bulldogs to the super regionals for the first time since 2011.
Coach of the Year
Franklin builds foundation in first year at helm By CALEB TURRENTINE Sports Writer
File / The Observer
Madison Traylor led all players in Elmore County with 203 kills this season. She is the All-Area Volleyball Player of the Year.
unnoticed. She finished the season with 153 digs, one shy of the team leader. “She had the mindset
that no one could stop her from being the best she could be,” Moncrief said. “If the challenge was there, she would
work harder and she would never give up.” Traylor was rarely taken off the court this See PLAYER • Page 9
With the 2018 season on the horizon, Holtville’s volleyball program had very little outside expectations. After the Bulldogs won just two matches in the previous two seasons, Alison Franklin was hired as the team’s head coach and it took just seven matches to double the combined win total of the last two sea-
sons. Holtville went on to win 11 matches, including its first area matches since 2015, and earned a super regional berth for the first time since 2011. For those achievements, Franklin is the All-Area Volleyball Coach of the Year. “They know they can win now,” Franklin said. “We’re hoping other girls will come in and want to See COACH • Page 9
FIRST TEAM Libero: Shannon McKee Wetumpka
Outside Hitter: Mirriam Foster, Elmore County After returning from a shoulder surgery over the offseason, Foster returned to the court with a purpose. Foster joined Madison Traylor as the two-headed attack for the Panthers this season, leading Elmore County to a 21-8 record and its ninth consecutive area title. Foster finished second on the team with 139 kills to go along with 103 digs and 32 aces this season. She had a season-high 11 kills in the team’s win over Holtville in the area tournament championship match.
McKee was one of the few stable parts of Wetumpka’s team this season and she played a vital role in the team’s second consecutive area tournament championship. She led the team with 167 digs. Wetumpka coach Margo Thomas said McKee’s presence on the court gave the team a sense of confidence. Early in her first varsity year, McKee was handed the libero jersey and did not disappoint. She will likely be back in the important role next season when Wetumpka looks to make it three area titles in a row.
D-spec: Denisha Reeves, Holtville
Setter: Madison White, Edgewood Academy Despite falling in the state championship match, Edgewood had a tremendous season and finished 28-1. The Wildcats used several hitters on the front row for the team’s strong attack throughout the season. However, if you watched any of Edgewood’s matches, it did not take long to figure out who was the heart of the attack. White, a junior, was supposed to be in a competition to be the team’s starting setter this season but quickly set herself apart to earn the role. White assisted on 65 of the team’s 75 points in its final-four match against Glenwood and followed that performance with 48 assists in the championship match.
Holtville’s resurgence this season was led by a strong senior class and Reeves was in the middle of it all. Holtville coach Alison Franklin said Reeves had been through the rebuilding process and understood what it took to win, which was important for the Bulldogs this season. After returning to the court from a torn ACL, Reeves put together the best season of her career, leading the team with 47 blocks, including three against American Christian Academy in the super regional match. Reeves, who played only on the front row for the Bulldogs, also added 50 kills.
OH: Lotte Preusser, Stanhope Elmore When Preusser left Germany for Stanhope, she brought newfound expectations to the volleyball team. Mustangs coach Virginia Barber said she was a program-changing player and Preusser lived up to those expectations. In her lone season as a high school athlete, Preusser led the Mustangs with 180 kills on 209 attempts. And while her swings always got the attention of the crowd, her impact did not stop there. She also finished the season with 76 digs and 32 aces.
Libero: Brianna Baker, Elmore County As with most players in Baker’s position, Elmore County trusted her to receive opposing serves. The Panthers thrived off the success of their front-row hitters, who needed good set-up passes. Baker, a junior, would often be the one called upon to make the first pass for Elmore County’s attack. Baker was used on only the back row this season and led the team with 154 digs.
HONORABLE MENTION Wetumpka: Erin Douglass (Fr.), Ryleigh Hamm (Sr.); Tallassee: Kayla Jolly (Sr.), Jordan Walters (Jr.); Elmore County: Grace Barlet (Sr.); Holtville: Kaylyn Dismukes (Sr.); Stanhope Elmore: Gabbi Taylor (Sr.); Edgewood Academy: Avery Roberts (Sr.)
THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER
CALEB TURRENTINE Sports Writer
Who will miss out on the College Football Playoff?
I
n less than a week, the analysis of the final four college football teams will be in full swing and the complaints of those getting left out will already be getting old. On Sunday, the 13 members of the College Football Playoff committee will announce who will be competing for this year’s national championship. Last year, two of the five power conferences were left out and another team decided to claim a championship after not being given a shot at the playoff. This season, there are already two spots locked up but the final two are very much up for grabs. Notre Dame has finished its regular season undefeated and will likely be in the playoff while this weekend’s SEC Championship Game is essentially being played as a quarterfinal. The Fighting Irish will be somewhere in the top three seeds, likely finishing third unless Alabama or Clemson get upset on Saturday. The SEC champion will definitely finish in the top four but it is possible the Crimson Tide will still be in the playoff with a loss to Georgia. The remaining one-loss teams will be sitting on edge as they await the rankings Sunday. After Washington State’s loss last week, the Pac-12 will be left out of the playoff for the third consecutive season. Without any major upsets, that leaves the Big 12 and the Big Ten fighting for the final spot. Oklahoma will first need to defeat Texas in the Big 12 Championship Game. The Sooners would avenge their only loss of the season and finish 12-1, making a great argument for their third appearance in four years. Ohio State jumped back into the conversation with last week’s dominant win over Michigan. The Buckeyes are heavy favorites against Northwestern in Saturday’s championship game. However, based off last year’s selection, it feels like Ohio State will need some help from other teams to grab the fourth spot in the playoff. Even if Alabama and/or Clemson lose this week, Ohio State may not finish ahead of either of them. If the Buckeyes do not want to be left out again, they should be rooting for Alabama and Texas this weekend. See TURRENTINE • Page 10
TheWetumpkaHerald.com
NOVEMBER 28, 2018 • PAGE 9
Jones preps for 1st season at ECHS By CALEB TURRENTINE Sports Writer
The Elmore County wrestling program will begin a new era on Friday when it hosts Tallassee for an in-school match. ECHS coach Jared Jones is beginning his first year at the helm of the program after spending the last three years as an assistant. Jones is entering his 27th year as a wrestling coach, including 16 years as a head coach at Tallassee. He has been in charge of one team state title and numerous individual titles during his career. The Panthers hope Jones has the same success as the head coach at Elmore County. He said building a foundation takes time but it starts by having kids who want to put in the work. “We have to expect more from each other,” Jones said. “We have to be willing to give up our off time to get
File / The Observer
Elmore County’s Chayanne Sanchez, top, flattens his opponent during last year’s Super Sectional. The Panthers are under the direction of new head coach Jared Jones and are looking to advance several more people in the postseason this year.
better so we can be the program we all want to be.” Jones said the goal is to get Elmore County to a championship level so it can compete with anyone on any day. He said it starts with having a bigger turnout and
he has already seen progress in that area. “We have made some strides to get more kids out,” Jones said. “The more kids we have, the more competing there will be for starting spots. And if you are
competitive in practice, you will be more competitive in matches.” Jones said the middle school program, where the foundation for the varsity begins, has already caught See JONES • Page 10
Lady Panthers grab 3rd place at Thanksgiving tourney STAFF REPORT TPI Staff
The Elmore County girls basketball team split its results in the 2018 Lions Club Basketball Tournament at Tallassee last week and walked away with the third-place trophy after winning its final game Tuesday. Elmore County (2-1) lost in the first round to Alabama Christian Academy, 56-48. Senior Madison Traylor scored a game-high 25 points in the loss to go
along with 15 rebounds, three assists and two steals. Destiny Settles scored eight points, including two 3-pointers. The Panthers responded with a 62-46 win over Tallassee, as Elmore County outscored the tournament hosts 24-9 in the third quarter to put the game away. Traylor finished with 20 points, 10 rebounds and six assists in the game before being named to the AllTournament team. Diamond Brown also reached double figures for
the Panthers, scoring 10 points on 50-percent shooting. Elmore County’s boys team dropped both games at the tournament. The Panthers lost their opener to Tallassee, the eventual champion, 65-53. Cole Hagler led the team with 16 points. The Panthers (1-2) dropped their second game against Quitman County (Ga.), 58-54. DJ Patrick scored 13 points and Shakwan Bickley, who was named to the All-Tournament team, added 10.
AHSAA FOOTBALL PLAYOFFS Semifinals (All games Nov. 30, 7 p.m.) CLASS 1A Maplesville (11-1) at Linden (12-0) Pickens County (9-4) at Mars Hill Bible (12-1), Florence CLASS 2A Luverne (12-1) at Highland Home (12-1) Aliceville (11-2) at Fyffe (13-0) CLASS 3A Providence Christian (12-1) at Flomaton (10-3) Randolph County (12-1) at Piedmont (11-2) CLASS 4A Andalusia (9-4) at UMS-Wright (12-0), Mobile Oneonta (10-3) at Deshler (8-5), Tuscumbia CLASS 5A Vigor (12-1) at Greenville (11-2) Central-Clay County (10-3) at Mortimer Jordan (12-1), Kimberly CLASS 6A
Saraland (12-1) at Wetumpka (11-2) Clay-Chalkville (12-1) at Pinson Valley (11-1) Finals Dec. 5 at Jordan-Hare Stadium, Auburn CLASS 7A Central-Phenix City (13-0) vs. Thompson (12-1) Semifinal results CLASS 1A Maplesville 29, Lanett 6 Linden 44, St. Luke’s Episcopal 43 Mars Hill Bible 41, South Lamar 27 Pickens County 13, Spring Garden 0 CLASS 2A Luverne 26, Leroy 7 Highland Home 28, Ariton 14 Fyffe 21, Ohatchee 13 Aliceville 38, Addison 22 CLASS 3A Flomaton 12, Pike County 10
Providence Christian 23, Gordo 20 Piedmont 27, Westminster Christian 26 Randolph County 19, Saks 8 CLASS 4A Andalusia 28, Hillcrest-Evergreen 21 UMS-Wright 21, American Christian 19 Oneonta 29, Good Hope 8 Deshler 20, Hokes Bluff 14 CLASS 5A Greenville 27, Ramsay 13 Vigor 27, Demopolis 7 Central-Clay County 35, Etowah 13 Mortimer Jordan 41, Jasper 21 CLASS 6A Saraland 24, Opelika 19 Wetumpka 21, Spanish Fort 17 Pinson Valley 48, Homewood 7 Clay-Chalkville 45, Oxford 9 Semifinal results CLASS 7A Central-Phenix City 34, Lee-Montgomery 27 Thompson 31, Hoover 28
Coach
File / The Observer
Elmore County senior Madison Traylor finished with a season-high 20 kills in her final match as a Panther.
Player season and played every point during the team’s postseason run. In the area championship victory over Holtville, Traylor had a season-high 14 kills on just 18 attempts. She followed up that performance with 20 kills on 30 attempts in the team’s loss at the super regional. Traylor’s ability to play anywhere on the court already set her apart from most players in the state but her accuracy this
continued from page 8
season has put her at the top of the list. Traylor connected with 66.5 percent of her kill attempts, also had a 92-percent serve percentage and finished the season with 76 aces. “She’s amazing,” Benjamin Russell coach Magan Ford said after a match against Elmore County this season. “If we’re at a tournament with Elmore County, I’m watching her play … She’s going to get her kills. She’s
probably one of the best players in the state.” Traylor had been a starter for the Panthers since her freshman season. She said people had always told her when she was playing well but she said it means more when its coming from an opponent. “It’s surprising but it means a lot,” Traylor said. “It means all that hard work and dedication pays off and for other people to see it means a lot.”
be a part of it. We are looking to bring in more talent and build something.” Franklin spent 11 years as Horseshoe Bend’s head coach but took on a different role last season during her first year at Holtville. She was the assistant coach for a 1-14 season in 2017 but said the experience taught her more about being a head coach. “As an assistant, I got to learn a lot about the girls,” Franklin said. “There’s so much stress involved as a head coach that doesn’t always happen. That experience helped me as a head coach.” Franklin had the help of a strong senior class this season. Four seniors led the team in four major statistical categories: Kaylyn Dismukes (kills), Denisha Reeves (blocks), Zoe Lowe (assists) and Cyndi Thornton (digs). Franklin said the program owes a lot to the senior class and all its hard work in building the program to where everyone wants it to be. “We are just hoping to change what people think of Holtville volleyball,” Franklin said early in the season. “We had the idea that people thought of us as the easy
continued from page 8
win. We want people to know that we’re here to play and we’re ready to fight.” Entering this season, Holtville had won just 14 sets in best-of-five matches over the last two seasons. In 2018, the Bulldogs won 15 sets in best-of-five matches. In nine of the team’s 11 victories this season, the opponent did not win a set. Other opponents in the area are taking note of Holtville’s resurgence as well. Elmore County coach Kim Moncrief just won a ninth consecutive area championship but said Holtville may not be far off as a challenger. “Coach Franklin is a very knowledgeable coach,” Moncrief said. “She’s a strong competitor and I knew she would be able to add to their program.” While the “easy win” mindset of opponents may be gone, Franklin said the team needs to be ready to take the next step. “They’ve set the bar now,” Franklin said. “This team went to super regionals and that means next year’s team will want to do the same or better. It’s huge for them to work as hard as they did and do something that has not been done in a long time.”
PAGE 10 • NOVEMBER 28, 2018
TheWetumpkaHerald.com
THE ECLECTIC OBSERVER
Tigers erase second-half deficit in Lions Club tourney win By CALEB TURRENTINE Sports Writer
The Tallassee boys basketball team responded to a hot shooting night from Alabama Christian Academy with some defensive adjustments, holding the Eagles to just 14 points in the final 14:25 of the game to win 64-56 and earn the championship of the Tallassee Lions Club Tournament. “Any time you can simulate the area tournament style, it’s going to help you,” said Tallassee coach Keiven Mixson, whose squad improved to 4-1. “When you make it to the championship game, it makes the stakes a little bit higher. It’s only going to help you get ready for the postseason.” The Eagles came out with the game plan of putting up plenty of 3-pointers and executed it well in the first half. ACA scored its first 18 points of the game on the long ball and made eight 3-pointers in the first half to take a 34-30 lead into the break. “I kept telling our team they’re not going to keep shooting like that,” Mixson said. “They may make more but we’re right here in the game. They’re going to start missing and I said that’s when we’ll have our opportunity.” The Eagles made two more 3-pointers in the first minute of the second half and extended their lead to 42-32, forcing the Tigers to call an early timeout in the third quarter. “We just had to fight through it,” Tallassee forward Tyrek Turner said. “We had to play intense defense and stop them from shooting to get back into the game.”
Caleb Turrentine / The Observer
Above: Tallassee’s Tyrek Turner (34) and Alabama Christian’s Reece Solar (11) jump at the tip off of the Thanksgiving Tournament championship game. Both players made it to on the All-Tournament team. Right: Tallassee’s Sandarius Hughley goes up to the basket during the Tigers’ win over ACA. Hughley was named to the All-Tournament team after scoring nine points in the final.
Tallassee went to a full-court press in the second half, forcing the Eagles more into the paint and leading to eight second-half steals by the Tigers. Tallassee tied the game 45-45 after three quarters and regained the lead with six minutes to go in the game on a 3-pointer by Joshua Griffin. He added two more points on the next play to spark a 7-0 run, giving Tallassee its biggest lead of the night, one the Tigers did not relinquish. “The press really affected them,” Mixson said. “With the
Turrentine
momentum of the game, I just felt like we had to do something different and switch something up. I think jumping to that press was a key to the victory.” The Eagles cut the lead back to one possession with less than two minutes to go but, with the Tigers looking to run some clock, junior Sandarius Hughley got an open look and knocked down a 3-pointer to give the Tigers a 62-56 lead to ice the game. “It’s just what you think,” Mixson said. “We think, ‘Don’t shoot it; don’t shoot it,’ but
continued from page 9
Ohio State would then be the only one-loss team with a resume good enough to make the playoff. However, Championship Week is never as predictable as you would expect it to be. While an Alabama-Clemson-Notre DameOklahoma playoff looks exciting enough, it is definitely not set in stone. For this weekend’s games, I’ll take Alabama over Georgia and Clemson over Pittsburgh as the top two seeds will be set by Saturday night. Notre Dame will not have to play in a conference championship but will still grab
the No. 3 seed. Oklahoma will get its revenge on Texas and Ohio State will beat Northwestern. Oklahoma would get the nod over the Buckeyes for the fourth spot. Since I have picked all of the favorites, you have to know that will not actually happen. But if it does, expect another year of Clemson and Alabama playing for a championship and another year of complaints from Ohio State fans and, of course, UCF fans. Caleb Turrentine is a writer for The Observer.
then after he makes it, it’s just a good shot. But we want to know the situation and understand the time management. We didn’t want to give them the opportunity to score.” Hughley finished the game with nine points, seven rebounds and four steals. He led the team with 14 points in the semifinal win over Elmore County and was named to the All-Tournament team. Griffin joined him after scoring 13 points in the championship game. Turner earned the Most
Valuable Player honors after averaging 13.5 points and 14.5 rebounds in the two wins. “Our coaches were just telling me to play my game, be dominant down in the post and clean up the glass,” Turner said. “It’s a blessing; I’m just happy I won it.” Mixson hopes his team will use the momentum from the tournament to have early success this season. “This will give the kids confidence going forward and going into area play,” Mixson said.
Jones his eye. Before spending 16 years at Tallassee, Jones spent four years as a coach at Oak Jones Mountain Middle School and created the wrestling program at Park Crossing. He not only has experience coaching at a championship level but he also has experience build-
continued from page 9
ing and Jones said he hopes to continue both at Elmore County. Jones was the running backs coach for the Elmore County football team and has spent several seasons as an assistant football coach during the last two decades. He said that time has helped him establish a team concept for his coaching style in wrestling. “I’ve always been a team guy,” Jones said. “Individuals can get better with team goals. When
you have team goals, they expect more from themselves and from their teammates.” Jones and the Panthers already have high expectations this season and they have a busy weekend to kick off the year. The in-school match will start at 2 p.m. Friday and will quickly be followed by a middle school tournament. Saturday, the Panthers will drive over to Tallassee for the Tallassee Duals tournament.
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