Franklin County Times - January 3, 2024 by Franklin County

MORE: 2023 Year in Review. See pages A2, B6.

Don’t miss Franklin Living Bridal Edition. See page A4.

Kids Page. See page A6.

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Hometown Newspaper of James W. Whitlock — Est. 1879 | Wednesday, January 3, 2024

Elect

Jason

2023 REVIEW

ote

Barry Moore

Miller PROBATE JUDGE

PROBATE JUDGE PD. POL. ADV. BY BARRY MOORE, 399 HIGH PINE DRIVE, RUSSELLVILLE, AL 35654

Pd.Pol.Adv.by Jason Miller, 605 Elm Circle, Russellville, AL 35653

Variety of news stories shape Franklin County

By María Camp maria.camp@ franklincountytimes.com

From business to schools to community events, city news and more, here are some of the headlines from 2023. JANUARY 2023 County observes Martin Luther King Jr. Day The Franklin County branch of the nonprofit Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. scholarship committee held its annual commemoration march and related events Jan. 16, this year taking place in downtown Russellville. New district attorney swears in Je f f r e y Wa d e Barksdale, Franklin County’s assistant district attorney since 2014, took the oath of office as district attorney Jan. 15 in the upstairs courtroom of the Franklin County courthouse.

FEBRUARY 2023 Downtown Russellville Collective names executive director The Downtown Russellville Collective, formed in 2022, as part of the city’s efforts working toward achieving Main Street Alabama status,

Index

Records ........................ A3 Kids ............................... A5 Worship ........................ A6 Opinion ........................ A8 Sports ........................... B1 Classifieds ................... B4 Akins Funeral Home Our family has been serving Franklin County since 1949.

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announced Ann Epperson McDermitt as its first executive director, effective Feb. 1. MARCH 2023 Franklin County Partnership Awards banquet spotlights county’s best The Franklin County Partnership awards banquet took place March 23 in the A.W. Todd Centre in downtown Russellville. Jointly presented by the Franklin County Chamber of Commerce and the Franklin County Development Authority, it’s an annual event designed to highlight Franklin County accomplishments. Off-duty Russellville firefighters spot house fire, respond without hesitation Off-duty Russellville Fire Department firefighters Sgt. Shane Mansell and Michael Hall set out around 4:30 a.m. March 21 to head to South Carolina to pick up a bass boat Mansell had purchased. Along the way, they discovered a house fire and stopped to help those trapped inside.

FILE PHOTOS The Franklin County branch of the nonprofit Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. scholarship committee holds its annual commemoration march and related events Jan. 16 in downtown Russellville.

Jeffrey Wade Barksdale, Franklin County’s assistant district attorney since 2014, takes the oath of office as district attorney Jan. 15 in the upstairs courtroom of the Franklin County courthouse.

Scholarship committee keeps Chucky Mullins’ memory alive with annual events Classmates of Chucky Mullins and other volunteers continued their work to reflect on and showcase his legacy March 24-25, hosting the 12th

annual golf tournament at Twin Pines Country Club and the third annual youth football camp at the RHS stadium, as well as the second annual Special Olympics Pro Bowl in the RMS gym.

The Downtown Russellville Collective, formed in 2022 as the city pursued Main Street Alabama status, announces Ann Epperson McDermitt as its first executive director, effective Feb. 1.

APRIL 2023 Russellville eighthgraders 3-D print prosthetic arm Ansley Willis, Kloee White and Wendy Barrientos, students in Lee Brownell’s Russellville Middle School STEM class took

See 2023 REVIEW, Page A2

Classmates of Chucky Mullins and other volunteers continue their work to reflect on and showcase his legacy.

A2• Franklin County Times • www.franklincountytimes.com

January 3, 2024

2023 Review

Continued from page A1

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LEFT: RMS students Ansley Willis, Kloee White and Wendy Barrientos, students in Lee Brownell’s Russsellville Middle School STEM class take on the project of planning and creating a 3-D printed prosthetic arm. RIGHT: The BHS senior Scholars Bowl team buzzes its way to the top at Jefferson State Community College April 14 in Birmingham, Ala, securing the Class 1A state title for the second year.

on the project of planning and creating a 3-D printed prosthetic arm for fouryear-old Sloan Hellums, the daughter of RMS teacher Lauren Hellums, who teaches special education next door.

Belgreen High School Scholars Bowl secures Class 1A state title for second year The BHS senior Scholars Bowl team buzzed its way to the top at Jefferson State Community College April 14 in Birmingham, Ala, securing the Class 1A state title for the second year. RCS Education

Foundation honors excellence The annual Russellville City Schools Education Foundation banquet, held April 24 at the A.W. Todd Centre in downtown Russellville, included honoree recognitions as well as a total of $40,000 awarded to 29 scholarship recipients. Honorees included Jerry Groce, Lela Ray and Dr. Wayne Ray. Cindy Coan received the Dan C. Hindman Star Polisher award. MAY 2023 NWSCC announces renovation plans for Phil Campbell campus During a public meeting in the Student Union

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Building Addition of the Phil Campbell Campus May 8, officials announced a building and campus renovation project for the Phil Campbell campus that is estimated to exceed $30 million. The plans included a new building, Patriot Plaza, which will connect a newly renovated Wallace Administration Building (301) and library (Building 306). The new plan will turn much of the library and building 307 into classroom and lab space. Building 305 will be renovated, and buildings 302, 303 and 304 are planned for eventual demolition. Tharptown High School rocketry team places second in nationals Tharptown High School’s rocketry team blasted into second place in the nation, out of 100 teams from across the country, during the American Rocketry Challenge, the world’s largest student rocketry competition, held May 20 at the Great Meadow Foundation in The Plains, Va. Franklin County performs, enjoys entertainment Franklin County boasts a number of opportunities to show off local talent, including the Roxy’s Salute to Broadway. Belgreen FFCLA hosts basketball tournament to help hunger

Belgreen FCCLA hosted a three-man basketball tournament named “Hoopin’ 4 Hunger” to raise money to purchase grocery gift cards for some of their students to help over the summer. JUNE 2023 City of Russellville receives Main street designation Following a lengthy process, the City of Russellville received Main Street designation June 1. “Being designated as a Main Street Alabama city signifies a commitment to revitalizing the local economy,” explained Ann Epperson McDermitt, Executive Director of the Downtown Collective (Russellville Main Street) efforts. Grimes announces forthcoming resignation as RCS superintendent “After much consideration and many discussions with the Russellville City School Board, it has been determined that the 2023-2024 school year will be my final year as superintendent of Russellville City Schools,” Dr. Heath Grimes said in an official announcement May 30. The school board hires the superintendent, and the Russellville City Council appoints the members of the school board. In addition to the school system being recognized for a number of achievements over the course

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of his tenure, personal accomplishments include serving in a variety of capacities, along with being a two-time District 8 Superintendent of the Year and state finalist. Grimes also received the Dr. James A. Street award June 13 in recognition of his work to ensure quality education for the children of Alabama. JULY 2023 Reedtown School celebrates centennial Alums, friends and former employees of Reedtown School came together June 30 at the Chucky Mullins Center for the “Reedtown Roundup” centennial celebration and fashion show. College Avenue Elementary sees final sunset Although the physical structures, long out of us, were demolished, College Avenue has a legacy that endures through the generations, with former students, faculty and staff recalling many fond recollections of school days long passed. Gateway Church of God catches fire Russellville Fire Department responded to a fire at Gateway Church of God on Hwy. 43 in Russellville. The threealarm fire called for help from both volunteer firefighters, as well as off-duty paid personnel. Nobody

was injured. Russellville Police Department, as well as Blue Springs and Tharptown volunteer fire departments also helped take control of the situation.

RCS BOE sees two new members In the Russellville City Council meeting July 17, the council (with the exception of Councilman Darren Woodruff-District 2) voted in favor of filling the expired Russellville City Schools Board of Education positions of Greg Batchelor (District 3) and Jerry Groce (District 4) with Ike Rogers (District 3) and Howard Hillman (District 4).

RMS triathlete competes at Junior Olympic finals Russellville Middle School student, Ryland Calvert, now in seventh grade, entered his first track meet earlier in the year, winning the 100meter and 200-meter dash, going on to participate in the AAU Junior Olympic Finals.

AUGUST 2023 Local insulator places second in U.S., Canada master apprentice competition Patrick Sykes, a 2017 graduate of Belgreen and a fourth year in the master apprentice program for the Birmingham, Ala., based insulators union,

See 2023 REVIEW, Page B6

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Birthdays

Jan. 1 Jason Evans

Jan. 2 Lily Rogers Anna Beth Oliver

Jan. 3 Charles Spencer Judy Jackson Kenny Sumeral Dana Thomas

Jan. 4 Melisa Askew Kathryn Flanagan Donald Hovater

Jan. 5 Chase Hyde Fortune James McDuffa

Jan. 7 Dwight Jackson Bobby Robinson Allison Standridge Betty Jo Tirey Jerry Pace Thomas Parker

Jan. 8 Mike Hovater Denise Wingo Allie Martin Wayne Hester

Jan. 9 Marcia Hammock Peggy Whitfield

Jan. 10 Alan Sherrill David Bixler Chris Webb

Jan. 11 James Cooper Blake Hudson Kayla McKinney Sharon Robinson

Jan. 12 Brenda Hunt Bill Jackson Robbie O’Neal Tatum Hudson

Jan. 13 Archer Chase “Archie” Gilmer Mitzi McNutt

Jan. 14 Johnna Gerstman JaCey Wilson

Jan. 15 Denise Wilson Melanie Malone

Jan. 16 J. Eugene Balding Conner Byars Jacob Green Jeff Masterson

Jan. 18 Blake Hyde Jerry Porch Hilton Tirey Peyton Watts

Jan. 19 Dana Balding Eric Fuller Emma McDowell Rhonda Hand Jerry Cummings

Jan. 20 Jamie Sumerel

Jan. 21 Ashley Webb Richard Parker Seth Burns Sophie Sharp Charles R. Jackson

Jan. 22 Dorothy Robins

January 3, 2024

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Obituaries Keith Lynn Owens, Sr. Dec. 26, 2023 Keith Lynn Owens, Sr., 66, of Phil Campbell, passed away Dec. 26 after an extended illness. Keith was part owner of Keith Owens Masonry and enjoyed laying brick, block and rock. He loved his art, drawing and riding motorcycles. He was always working and always busy. He loved his family more than anything and was considered to be Louise’s Superman. He was preceded in death by his mother, Lillian Flowella Owens; brothers, Ronald Owens, Winford Allen Owens; grandparents, Emmett Allen Adams, Rosie Mae Holland Adams, Winford Owens, Maggie Owens; sisters-in-law, Gerri Eaton Statler, Tina Owens; and nephews, Justin Owens and Joey Lancore. He leaves to cherish his memory, his wife of 48 years, Louise Owens; children, Emmitt Owens (Carly) of Russellville, Ala.; Keith Owens Jr. of Winfield, Ala., Adam Owens (Amber) of Winfield; grandchildren, Mackenzie Lolley, Tyler Lolley, Emma Owens, Joe Barnett, Kylie Owens, Devon Owens, Eryck Owens, Jasmine Owens, Kenzie Beasley and Easton Beasley, Maddie Wade, Mary White, Colton Fitzpatrick, Kayleigh Owens; greatgrandchildren, Charlie Rose Lolley, Jordan Lolley, Maddi Duckworth, Macey Marcum, Kensley Marcum, Silas Barnett, Theo Barnett, Elijah Owens, Emerie Gardner; father, Charles Lee Owens; siblings, Charles Ray Owens (Delia), Vera Caldwell (Sam), Lavonda Longstreet (Jeff), Starla Murphy (Calvin), Paul Eaton, Alice Wilson (Leo), April Petraska (Larry), Candy Bromley; several aunts, uncles, cousins and

Land Transactions Dec. 19

• Evelyn Maelyn Gann to Rita Lynn Barton, warranty • Evelyn Maelyn Gann to James Kevin Barton, warranty • Evelyn Maelyn Gann to Christopher Shawn Barton, warranty

Dec. 20

• Keatts and Keatts LLC to Alabama Farm Credit, agreement • Greg Parrish to Ruth Garcia Duarte, warranty • Laura G. Pinkard to S&N Investments LLC, warranty • Myles Boone to Myles Boone, warranty • Myles Boone to Myles Boone, warranty • Mary K. Steele to Miguel Tomas, sale contract

Dec. 21

• Julia B. Davis to Jessica Jackson, warranty • Julia B. Davis to Jason Lane Davis, warranty • Julia B. Davis to Julia B. Davis, warranty • Jerry Wayne Evans

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too many nieces and nephews to count. The visitation was Dec. 31 from 1-2 p.m. at Spry Memorial Chapel, with the funeral following in the chapel at 2 p.m. with Bro. Roger Watson speaking at the service. Burial was at Mountain View Cemetery. Pallbearers were Tyler Lolley, Colton Fitzpatrick, Eryck Owens, Joe Barnett, Clinton Taylor and Shane Garvin. Devon Marcum was an honorary pallbearer. The family would like to express a sincere heartfelt thanks to the nurses and staff of Hospice of the Shoals, our nurse, Sharon McGee, and Bro. Sammy Taylor for your love and prayers. Spry Memorial Chapel assisted the family. To have us sign the book for you, please feel free to call, or to leave private condolences, please visit our website at www.sprymemorialchapel.com. Owen Roger Swinney Dec. 25, 2023 Owen Roger Swinney, 84, of Phil Campbell, passed away Dec. 25. Visitation was held Dec. 30 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Spry Memorial Chapel, with the service directly following. Burial was in Liberty Hill Cemetery. Loma A. Whitehead Dec. 25, 2023 Loma A. Whitehead, 90, of Tuscumbia, Ala., passed away Dec. 25 at Cottage of the Shoals. A celebration of life service to Bradly Wayne Evans, warranty • Said Goto Osman to Regina Luker, warranty • J.C. Blackburn to Billy H. Turbyfill, survivorship • Eddie Beason to Webster Graham, affidavit • Frank Graham to Frank Graham, warranty • Frank Graham to Vince K. Reeder Sr., warranty • Priscella Graham to Ann Roy Moore, warranty • Johnny S. Cleveland to Johnny S. Cleveland, survivorship • Ann W. Barnett to Jennifer Willis Warhurst, warranty • Melanie Miller to Barbara Kent, survivorship • Mitchell Gerome Page to Mitchell Gerome Page, survivorship • Doug Streetman to Doug Streetman, warranty • Shawn Chadwick to Teresa L. Nelson, warranty • Danny Lee Balentine to Jose Francisco Carrillo, suvivorship

Dec. 22

will be held at a later date. Burial will be in Mission Hills Memorial Garden in Niles, Michigan. Akins Funeral Home in Russellville assisted the family. Howard Clinton Lewis, Jr. Dec. 24, 2023 Howard Clinton Lewis, Jr., 90, passed away peacefully on Christmas Eve at his home in Spruce Pine while surrounded by loved ones. He was a member of Quinn Memorial Church of Christ. Howard was a humble man, yet humorous, kind, loving and extremely intelligent. His extraordinary mechanical abilities were well known among family, friends and neighbors. He cared for his children well and spoiled the grandchildren with many a trip to “the candy store.” Widowed at age 26 with two small children, Howard remarried and embraced two additional children. A blended family simply became “our family.” Howard leaves behind children, Howard Lewis III (Myra), Linda Davis (Dennis) and Debby Gaston (Sam); grandchildren, Clint Davis, Brent Davis, Joel Davis, Heather Willis, Ashley Barnes, Bethany Sheffield, Hayden Gaston, Robyn O’Connell, Carol Harwood and Amanda Turner Blais; great-grandchildren, Eva Gaston, Landon Sheffield, Avery Sheffield, Zach Willis, Annie Willis, Ellie Willis, Cassidy Barnes, Abby Butler, Caleb Davis, • David N. Strickland to David N. Strickland, warranty • James Lee Martin to Doyle G. Taylor Sr., affidavit • Debbie King Taylor to Arlon Glasgow, corrective • Stanley R. Gilliland to Jerry Tanner Robinson, warranty • Kevin W. Busler to Jacob Wade Wallace, survivorship • Bobby Dean Berry to Broken W. Properties LLC, warranty • Mike Mayfield to Melina Vargas, survivorship • Doris Keller to Greg E. Scott, warranty

Dec. 27

• Nathan M. Poteet to Drew Jackson, warranty • Robin Fugate to Kayla Hamilton, survivorship • J.C. Blackburn to Tim W. Deaton, survivorship

Dec. 28

• Juan Garcia to Norman Reese Bailey, survivorship • Robin Charles Wilson to Robin Charles Wilson, executor’s

Katie Davis, Grissom Davis, Madison Davis, Matt O’Connell, Sean O’Connell, Kit Turner, Addison Blais, Quinn Blais, Alec Harwood, Andy Harwood and Jacob Harwood; and greatgreat grandchild, Halston Butler. Preceding him in death are his parents, Howard Lewis, Sr., and Marie Lone Lewis; wife, Nancy Paper Lewis; wife, Ira Mae Grissom Lewis; son, Kit Turner and granddaughter, Jolene Turner. The family would like to extend their thanks for the loving care provided by Southern New Beacon Hospice, particularly Kate Eli and Tammy Taylor. The family will hold a private memorial service at a later date. Pinkard Funeral Home of Russellville assisted the family. Sue Nell Mitchell Dec. 23, 2023 Sue Nell Mitchell, 83, of Russellville, passed away Dec. 23. Visitation was held Dec. 28 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Spry Memorial Chapel, with the service directly following. Burial was in Old Bethel Cemetery. Robert David Motes Dec. 23, 2023 Robert David Motes, 94, of Phil Campbell, passed away Dec. 23 at Burns Nursing Home in Russellville, Ala. Visitation was held Dec. 27 from 6-8 p.m. at Akins Funeral Home in Russellville. A service was held Dec. 28 from 12-2 p.m. at Blue Springs Freewill Baptist Church in Phil Campbell. Angela Carina Saint Dec. 21, 2023 Angela Carina Saint, 59, of Russellville, passed away Dec. 21. A memorial service will be planned at a later date. Akins Funeral Home assisted the family.

Marriage Licenses Dec. 8

• William Baroett Green to Melissa Ann Shoemake • Edward Wesley Priest to Lisa Kay Amerson • Bradley Alan Babbitt to Jessica Denise Hutchens • Brooke Madison Campbell to Noah Reece Turnage • Brandon Michael Medina to Jordan Nicole-G Brundige

Dec. 14

• Dallas Hugh Burks to Destany Shyann Warren

Dec. 15

• Arnulfo GregorioLopez to Leona Caal Choc • Daniel Joseph Deegan to Ruby Leanell Hill

Dec. 19

• Brayan Nicolas Sop Otzoy to Johana Marlen Cotoc Yac

Dec. 20

• Larry Wayne Mitchell to Ginger Kay Sak

Dec. 22

• Justin Alexander Jewell to Amber Grace Ergle

OPINION Quote of the Week

“M

y mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor and some style.” — Maya Angelou American poet, memoirist and actress, widely known for her book I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings.

Contact Your Elected Officials

Franklin County Commission

January 3, 2024

This week: Don’t miss annual bridal edition of Franklin Living We Say Editorial Staff

With the holidays behind us and the long, drab days of winter in view, it’s the perfect time to offer our readers something to brighten the days ahead: the bridal edition of Franklin Living. It’s so fitting to present our special weddingfocused issue in January/ February each year. A focus on love can help make our hearts a little lighter during the heavy gray days of winter, not to mention tying in well with Valentine’s Day as it approaches. Starting on page 17 of this edition of Franklin Living – helpfully tucked inside this paper if you

Joseph Baldwin District 3

Jason Miller District 2

David Hester District Four

The Franklin County Commission meets in a work session every second Monday at 5 p.m. and in a voting meeting every third Monday at 8:30 a.m. To speak to your commissioner, call 256-332-8850. Barry Moore Chairman

Share Your Opinion!

Send Letters to the Editor by email at news@ franklincountytimes.com or mail to: Franklin County Times P.O. Box 1088, Russellville, AL 35653 Letters will be printed on the Opinion page of the Franklin County Times. Letters must be signed and may be edited for spelling, length and clarity at the editor’s discretion.

plan every y detail, and d contact us if January/February 2024 you’re interVol. 14 Issue No. 1 ested. Of course, we have even more to offer when it comes to love and romance features in this issue. Read about Here come a new local venue that o p e n e d in 2023, Scottarosa Farms, and see Lori Skinner’s recom- financial advice on tap, mended titles if you’re and Philip Goad has some in the mood for a good encouragement for your romantic read. Meet wed- faith. On top of that, Amy ding coordinator and sta- McCollum has some recitioner Elizabeth Joyner, pes to help you get the and get some flower tips year started on the right from the Franklin County foot. It’s all inside this ediExtension. Of course, Emily Mays tion. You’re going to love has your bi-monthly it. SCOTTAROSA FARMS S | HEALTHY

RECIPES | WEDDING FLOWER

ADVICE

The Brides

Walking offers a number of health benefits By Metro Creative Services

Chris Wallace District 1

subscribe, with additional copies available at our office – feast your eyes on the beautiful weddings of five Franklin couples. They each share all the details of their unforgettable wedding day, as well as the love story that led up to the moment of the “I do.” We love having the opportunity to give you an inside look at different kinds of weddings, and it’s also a joy to get to highlight some of our local venues, photographers, florists and other vendors. If you or someone you know is in the midst of wedding planning for 2024, you might gain some inspiration from seeing how other Franklin County brides and grooms tied the knot. And by the way, 2024 brides-to-be – we’d love to feature your wedding in the next bridal edition. Keep that in mind as you

Walking offers numerous health benefits to people of all ages. According to Dr. Thomas Frieden, former director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, walking is “the closest thing people have to a wonder drug.” Any physical activity is helpful to promote personal health, and walking provides a host of benefits. 1. Strengthens bones: Walking can slow down the loss of bone mass due to osteoporosis. Arthritis. org notes a study of postmenopausal women found that 30 minutes of walking each day reduced their risk of hip fractures by 40 percent. 2. Boosts cardio endurance: Regular walks can improve cardiovascular endurance, which can help people progress to

more rigorous physical activity. 3. Burns calories: Walking helps burn calories and maintain or lose weight. The number of calories burned depends on how briskly people walk, the distance they cover, their body weight and the terrain. 4. Improves cardiovascular health: The American Heart Association recommends adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity each week. Walking five days a week can reduce the risk for coronary heart disease by roughly 19 percent, according to a report in the European Journal of Epidemiology. 5. Counteracts effects of weight-promoting genes: Researchers at Harvard Medical School looked at 32 obesity-promoting genes in more than 12,000 people who walked brisk-

Walking offers a number of benefits. ly for about an hour a day. Walking reduced the effects of weight-promoting genes by 50 percent. 6. Tame cravings: People who have a sweet tooth can take notice that walking may steer them away from overindulgence. A pair of studies from the University of Exeter found a 15-minute walk can curb cravings

CONTRIBUTED

for chocolate and reduce the chocolate consumed in stressful situations. Walking also helped to reduce cravings for other sugary snacks. 7. Reduces joint pain: Walking improves blood flow and helps protect the joints. This can keep people from developing arthritis and other stiffness.

Book Lovers take on Christmas pajama pancake project workers - nobody else She Says in America can possibly Susie Hovater Malone

Lifestyles Columnist GFWC Book Lovers Study Club ended 2023 with its annual Christmas Pajama Pancake Party. Members enjoyed this fun event at the home of Lela and Dr. Wayne Ray. Their home was beautifully decorated for the holidays and was open for members to tour. Many decorations featured Christmas ceramics made by Lela’s mother. The project for this meeting was donating pajamas to the Franklin County Department of Human Resources. In support of the project, members wore their favorite pajamas. Twenty-four pairs of children’s pajamas were collected to be delivered to the DHR director.

PHOTO BY SUSIE HOVATER MALONE GFWC Book Lovers Study Club members end the year with their annual Christmas Pajama Pancake Party. Members enjoyed delicious pancakes, bacon, cheese and ham quiche, fruit, various sweet treats, coffee and other drinks. Hostesses included Patricia Cox, Leah Masterson and Cindy Bailey. President Brenda Oliver called the meeting to order. As part of the GFWC Alabama President’s Project, “Living the Volunteer Spirit: Celebrating Our Everyday Heroes,” Gayle

McAlister, program chairman, presented “Heroes that Deserve Our Gratitude at Christmas.” Heroes recognized included suburban strip mall Chinese food restaurant owners - open regardless of the weather, day or holiday; gas station attendants, to be counted on when all other stores are closed; delivery drivers, so appreciated by those procrastinators who place their Christmas orders at the last minute; garbage

comprehend what it’s like to be sacrificing your body, time and safety on Christmas like garbage collectors do. In support of the local garbage workers, Book Lovers gave Christmas goody bags to the employees of Russellville’s garbage department. Members also donated to FAME Girls Ranch, adding an additional $300 to the recipients of the Walk to Wellness for additional treatments; and $150 donated to Canine Companions for Independence. Member discussed ideas for fundraisers in the new year, including a basket drawing and a tour of homes. The fundraising committee will meet and give a report later this month. The meeting’s highlight was a trivia game. President Brenda Oliver gave each member a Christmas stocking. The meeting closed with the reading of the GFWC Collect.

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A5• Franklin County Times • www.franklincountytimes.com

January 3, 2024

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Nickolas J. Steeles nick@njsteeles.com Phone: 256-383-0773 Fax: 256-383-1298

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A6• Franklin County Times • www.franklincountytimes.com

January 3, 2024

CHURCH DIRECTORY

BAPTIST

McDowell, Beason

507 North Jackson Ave Russellville, AL 35653

256-332-1660

www.mbandhlaw.com

• Atwood Baptist Church, Vina • Belgreen Baptist Church, between Highway 24 and County Road 524 • Bethsaida Missionary Baptist Church, Highway 48, 10 miles east of Russellville • Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church, 305 Bethlehem Road, Russellville • Branches Church, 996 Villagewood Drive, Russellville, 256-331-3700 • Burnout Missionary Baptist Church, seven miles east of Red Bay on Highway 24 • Calvary Baptist Church, Lagrange Road, Russellville, 256-332-2804 • Cedar Creek Baptist Church, turn off of Highway 247 onto County Road 90, pastor Roger Martin; Sunday School at 10 a.m., Sunday worship at 11 a.m. • College Avenue First Baptist Church, 521 College Ave., Russellville, 256-332-1724 • Cowboy Church of Franklin County, 25100 Highway 24 W., Russellville • Crestview Baptist Church, Highway 24 W., two miles from Highway 43 • Crooked Oak Missionary Baptist Church, Russellville • Divine Baptist Church, 15099 Highway 243, Russellville • Duncan Creek Baptist Church, 985 Duncan Creek Road, Russellville • First Baptist Church Phil Campbell, 3350 Broad St., 205-993-5873 • First Baptist Church Russellville, 213 N. Jackson Ave., 256-332-2065 • First Freewill Baptist Church, Highway 43, Russellville • First Baptist Church, Vina • Friendship Missionary Baptist Church, Highway 48, Russellville • Friendship Baptist Church, Pastor Micah Fleming, 10th Street NE, Red Bay, Sunday School 10 a.m., Worship 11 a.m. and 6 p.m., Wednesday 7 p.m. • Frankfort Missionary Baptist Church, Frankfort Road, Russellville, 256-332-6720 • Grace Baptist Church, 601 Lawrence St., Russellville • Hodges Convention Baptist Church, Highway 172, Hodges • James Chapel Missionary Baptist Church, Old Highway 24 W. • Jonesboro Baptist Church, Waterloo Road, Russellville • Liberty Baptist Church, 261 NE County Road 53, Phil Campbell • Macedonia Baptist Church, Highway 724, Newburg • The Mission, 1437 Highway 43, Russellville • Mt. Hebron Baptist Church, County Road 26 • Mt. Nebo Missionary Baptist Church, Highway 48/Leighton Highway, 256-292-3554 • Mountain View Baptist Church, 2110 Highway 81, Phil Campbell, 205-9934610 • Mt. Zion Baptist Church, Old Belgreen Highway • New Jerusalem Baptist Church, Highway 24 W., Russellville, 256-332-0201 • New Friendship Baptist Church, Highway 187, south of Belgreen, pastor Ricky Phifer, 256-627-2801 • New Bethlehem Missionary Baptist, 256-332-6247 • New Pleasant Baptist Church, County Road 52, Spruce Pine

• North Russellville Baptist Church, 1401 Waterloo Ave., Russellville, 256-332-0115 • Oakwood Baptist Church, Spruce Pine, 256-332-9485 • One Accord Baptist Church, 5550 Highway 524 W., Russellville • Pleasant Hill Baptist Church, County Road 22, 256-3327020 • Pleasant Ridge Missionary Baptist Church #2, 1570 Highway 48, Russellville • Pilot Hill Missionary Baptist Church, 5 Highway 19, Vina • Red Bay Freewill Baptist Church, Highway 24 E., Red Bay, 256-356-9220 • Rockwood Baptist Church, County Road 36, Russellville • Siloam Baptist Church, Highway 60, Russellville, 256-331-9502 • South Side Baptist Church, Highway 43 S., Russellville, 256-332-4326, pastor Roger Kennedy • Tharptown Baptist Church, County Road 48, Russellville, 256-332-0063 • Waco Baptist Church, 31141 Highway 724, Russellville • West Highland Baptist Church, 814 W. Limestone St., Russellville. Sun. School 10 a.m., Sun. worship 11 a.m., Pastor Lloyd Griffus, 256-810-9398 • CATHOLIC • Good Shepherd Catholic Church, 1700 N. Jackson Ave., Russellville, 256-3324861 CHURCH OF CHRIST • Centerview Church of Christ, 3434 Highway 58, Russellville • Eastside Church of Christ, Highway 24 E., Red Bay • Eastside Church of Christ, 15820 Highway 243, Russellville • Gravel Hill Church of Christ, 1201 Nix Road, Phil Campbell, 205-993-4338 • Isbell Church of Christ, County Road 36, Russellville • North Highlands Church of Christ, corner of Jackson Avenue/Hemlock Street, Russellville, 256-332-3315 • Polk Street Church of Christ, Polk Street west of Washington Ave., Russellville, 256-332-5533 • Russellville Church of Christ, 15130 U.S. Highway 43, Russellville • Spruce Pine Church of Christ, 88 Scharnagel Road, Spruce Pine, 256-291-5694 • Tharptown Church of Christ, 5071 Highway 48, Russellville, 256-328-1232 • Washington Avenue Church of Christ, 311 S. Washington Ave., Russellville • CHURCH OF GOD • Cornerstone Church of God, 901 4th Ave. SW, Red Bay, pastor Rick Bradley, 205454-3333; Sunday School 9:45 a.m., worship 10:30 a.m. and 6 p.m., Wednesday 6:30 p.m. • Church of God of Prophecy, Highway 24 W., Russellville • Church of God, Seventh Day, Highway 5, Phil Campbell • Hope Central, 4327 Broad St., Phil Campbell, 256-8103087 • New Life Tabernacle Pentecostal Church of God, 714 Sockwell Ave., Russellville • Phil Campbell Church of God of Prophecy, Highway 5, Phil Campbell • Russellville Church of God, Highway 43, Russellville, 256-332-7176

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INDEPENDENT • Cedars Church, 109 Lawrence St. W., Russellville, Sundays at 10:30am, www. cedarschurch.com • Cornerstone Fellowship Church, 1 Block Church Road Highway 243, Phil Campbell • Crossroads Fellowship Church and School, intersection of Old Highway 24 Highway 43 • God Cares for You Worship Center, 207 Marion St. SW, Russellville • Grace Covenant Church, corner of Highway 24 W. and Lawrence Street • Heritage Fellowship Church, Highway 43 S., Russellville • Harvest Fellowship, 607 10th Ave. N., Red Bay • House of Victory, 714 Sockwell Ave., Russellville, pastor Ricky Gardner • Kimbrough’s Chapel Church, County Road 38 • Mars Hill Community Church, Highway 5 S., Phil Campbell • My Father’s House Ministries, 104 E. Lawrence St., Russellville • New Beginning Worship Center, 127 N. Jackson Ave., Russellville • Praise Tabernacle, Highway 43, one mile south of Highway 24 intersection • Witness Outreach Ministries, Highway 20, Spruce Pine, pastor Brian Scott MEDTHODIST • Landmark Church of Belgreen, Highway 24 and Highway 187 intersection, Belgreen • Russellville First Methodist Church, 311 N. Jackson, Russellville, 256-332-2955 • Gray Rock First Congregational Methodist, Highway 40, Phil Campbell, 205-9934196 • Isbell Methodist Church, Highway 43 Bypass S., Russellville, • Mt. Pleasant United Methodist Church, Highway 24 E., near Newburg • Spruce Pine United Methodist Church, Old Highway 43, south of Russellville • MORMON • Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, 151 Carney Lane, Russellville, missionaries 256-331-9988. NAZARENE • First Church of the Nazarene, Shook/Fletcher Road, County Road 46, Russellville • PENTECOSTAL • Greater Life Pentecostal Church, Highway 43 N., Russellville • Solid Rock Pentecostal, Cleveland and Green streets • PRESBYTERIAN • First Presbyterian PCA, 201 N. Green St., Russellville, 256-332-5730 • Mountain Home Presbyterian Church, (PCUSA), 100 Mt. Home Church Road, Belgreen SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST Seventh Day Adventist, Highway 81, seven miles north of Phil Campbell in Trapptown

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SPORTS

January 3, 2024

Red Bay, Belgreen basketball. See page B2.

Classifieds. See pages B3-B5. MORE: Year in Review. See page B6.

ABOVE: Malachi Ducan takes the ball to the hoop for the Golden Tigers. BELOW: Jah Williams of Russellville drives to the basket during the Bracy Invitational.

PHOTOS BY BRANNON KING

Russellville basketball teams participate in holiday hoops action By Brannon King For the FCT The Russellville varsity basketball teams participated in holiday tournaments after Christmas. The RHS boys went to Deshler High School for the Bracy Invitational, while the Lady Golden Tigers played in the West Morgan Holiday Classic. BOYS

Russellville 78, Marion County 60 The Golden Tigers opened the Bracy Invitational Dec. 26 at the Deshler Dome. RHS jumped out to a 22-14 first quarter lead before Marion County put together a strong second period to get within three points at the half. Russellville outscored their opponent 38-23 in the second half. Russellville’s EJ King led the team’s scoring with 35 points. KJ Murray added 13, and Malachi Duncan contributed 11. Amir Williams scored

See BASKETBALL, Page B2

Franklin County Schools girls basketball summary By Bart Moss For the FCT FCS girls holiday basketball summary While Franklin County schools were on Christmas break, basketball teams were on the road playing holiday hoops. Belgreen 55, Brooks 47 Belgreen led Brooks 22-19 at halftime. The Bulldogs blew past the Lions in the third quarter, outscoring Brooks 26-11 to take a 48-30 lead. Dacota Green led Belgreen with 18 points, scoring 11 in the third quarter. Makenna Fisher and Bryn Scott added nine points each. Morgan Lauderdale

scored eight points, and Lilliana Willingham six points. Jacqueline Alban, MacKinley Hogan and Carson Hovater scored two points each. Elkmont 49, Belgreen 44 Dacota Green scored 25 points in a loss to the Elkmont Red Devils. Green scored 10 points in the first half, then added 10 points in the third quarter. Makenna Fisher added six points, Lily Green four points and Bryn Scott three points. Morgan Lauderdale, Lilliana Willingham and Carson Hovater scored two points each. Phil Campbell 38,

Hanceville 24 Phil Campbell led Hanceville 18-10 at halftime and 31-19 at the end of the third quarter. Macy Hardy led the Bobcats with 21 points, scoring 10 in the third quarter. Leela Baker added eight points, Hannah Welborn four points, Sidda Rogers three points and IsaBell Ashley two points. Phil Campbell 55, Addison 30 Phil Campbell led Addison 28-18 at halftime and 46-21 at the end of the third quarter. Macy Hardy led Phil Campbell with 15 points, followed by Leela Baker with 10 points. Sidda Rogers added 9 points, Natalie Pope six

Falkville 57, Phil Campbell 35 Falkville hit nine three pointers in route to the win over the Bobcats. Macy Hardy led Phil Campbell with 16 points. Hannah Welborn added six points, and Ayla Stowe earned three points. Mia Ambrosio, Sidda Rogers, Leela Baker, IsaBell Ashley and Bella Welch scored two points each.

Andeleah Smith scored 18 of her game-high 20 points in the second half to help the Tharptown Wildcats beat the Vina Red Devils. Following Smith were Aalivia Wilson with four points, Carley Cason five points, Alyssa Fischer three points, Lizzy Duncan two points and Abby Wilson two points. For Vina, Layna Bell led with 10 points, followed by Braxton Quinn with seven points, Kaley Attaway four points, Layla Hester three points, Sarah Harper three points, Mackenzie Elrod three points and Mikala Mitchell three points.

Tharptown 37, Vina 33 Eighth g rader

Vina 37, Colbert Heights 35

points, Mia Ambrosio four points, Lily Stewart three points, Hannah Welborn two points, Ayla Stowe two points, Bella Welch two points and Chaley Bullington two points.

Kaley Attaway led Vina with nine points in a win over Colbert Heights. Mackenzie Elrod followed with eight points, Layla Hester seven points, Lana Bell six points, Braxtyn Quinn six points and Mikala Mitchell one point.

Vina 40, Cherokee 10 Multiple players got in on the scoring action in Vina’s blowout win over Cherokee. Miranda King led the Red Devils with nine points, followed by Mikala Mitchell with seven points, Braxtyn Quinn six points, and Layla Hester six points. Kari Harper, Sarah Harper, Kaley Attaway and Harleigh Ridge all scored three points each.

B2• Franklin County Times • www.franklincountytimes.com

January 3, 2024

Red Bay Tigers basketball team shows out in Illinois McCoy, Kennedy Wilemon and Conner Humphries added two points each.

By Bart Moss For the FCT The Red Bay Tigers took their game on a long road trip during the holidays near St. Louis to the 62nd annual Mater Dei Christmas tournament. The Tigers won three straight games, including a late comeback win over the host school, to advance to the finals where they will face the topranked 2A team in the state of Illinois, Breese Central.

Red Bay 55, Mater Dei (IL) 52 Mater Dei led Red Bay 25-24 at halftime, and extended the lead to 42-36 at the end of the third quarter. The home team led by as many as 12 points before the Tigers started their comeback to win the game. Lawson Glover led Red Bay with 21 points, followed by Cody Carnes with 12 points. Ty Reynolds added seven points, Holden Inmon six points, Gage Edgmon five points and Ethan McCoy four points.

Red Bay 63, Riverview (IL) 50 Red Bay trailed Riverview 18-16 at the end of the end of the first quarter but took a 32-25 lead at halftime and led the rest of the way. Holden Inmon led Red Bay with 18 points, followed by Lawson Glover with 15 points. Cody Carnes added nine points, and Brayden Tabbs earned six points. Gage Edgmon and Ty Reynolds scored four points each. Ethan

Red Bay 46, Wesclin (IL) 37 Red Bay led Wesclin 19-15 at halftime and 28-20 at the end of the third quarter as the Tigers got the win to advance to the finals of the Mater Dei Christmas tournament. Cody Carnes led

Red Bay, Belgreen earn top seeds in Franklin County tournament

with 10 points. Ty Reynolds, Lawson Glover and Ethan McCoy scored eight points each. Kennedy Wilemon finished with two points and Gage Edgmon added one point. Central (IL) 51, Red Bay 33 Red Bay fell to Central (IL) in the title game 51-33. Lawson Glover led the team with 14 points, followed by Ty Reynolds with seven points, Ethan McCoy five points, Holden Inmon four points and Brayden Tabbs three points. Belgreen 70, Smithville (MS) 56 Belgreen sophomore Braycen Johnson scored 36 points to lead the Bulldogs passed Smithville 70-56. The Bulldogs led Smithville 32-25 at halftime and 50-35 at the end of the third quarter. Jonathan Mendoza followed Johnson with 11 points. Landon Cox added 9 points.

By Bart Moss For the FCT

2024 FRANKLIN COUNTY TOURNAMENT AT PHIL CAMPBELL HIGH SCHOOL

The Red Bay varsity boys and Belgreen varsity girls earned top seeds in the 2024 Franklin County tournament. The annual tournament will be hosted by Phil Campbell High School beginning Jan. 9 and will conclude with the finals Jan. 13. Red Bay’s boys come into the tournament playing basketball with a record of 12-4 and look to be a contender in Class 2A. Belgreen’s girls are playing equally as well with a record of 15-4 and could make some noise in Class 1A in February. Along with the varsity boys and varsity girls divisions, there will be three other divisions competing in the

Tuesday, January 9 4:00p

JVG

2 Vina vs. 3 Phil Campbell

5:30p

4 Tharptown vs. 5 Red Bay

7:00p

4 Phil Campbell vs. 5 Vina Thursday, January 11

4:00p

9thB

1 Vina vs. 4 Belgreen

5:30p

1 Belgreen vs. 4/5 Winner

7:00p

1 Red Bay vs. 4/5 Winner

4:00p

9th B

2 Tharptown vs. 3 East Franklin

5:30p

2 Phil Campbell vs. 3 Vina

7:00p

Friday, January 12

2 Tharptown vs. 3 Belgreen Saturday, January 13

12:00p

9th B

Finals:

1:45p

JVG

Finals: 1 Belgreen vs. 2/3 Winner

3:30p

JVB

Finals: 1 Red Bay vs. 2 Phil Campbell

5:15p

Finals:

7:00p

Finals: plete schedule is listed below. Admission to the tournament will be $8 each day.

tournament: A-Junior Boys, Junior Varsity Girls and Junior Varsity Boys. The com-

Basketball

Continued from page B1

Russellville Rylan Pratt goes around the West Limestone defense.

nine, Bralynn Vincent added six and Gavin Hyde scored four.

Covenant Christian 58, Russellville 51 Day two of the Bracy Invitational featured a matchup between the Golden Tigers the Covenant squad. Russellville had a 28-23 lead at the half, but Covenant outscored RHS 20-11 in the third quarter and 15-12 in the fourth. EJ King lead Russellville with 17

points, and Amir Williams added 11. KJ Murray and Bralynn Vincent scored six each, Gavin Hyde scored four, Malachi Duncan three and Mike Young added one point. Russellville 69, West Limestone 33 The Golden Tigers finished the Bracy Invitational with a dominating performance in a consolation game versus the West Limestone Wildcats on Dec. 28. Russellville shot ahead

23-5 in the first quarter and led 45-13 at the half. Eight Golden Tigers scored, with EJ King leading the way with 21 points. Malachi Duncan had 16, Amir Williams and Jah Williams scored eight apiece, Gavin Hyde and Rylan Pratt got five each, Mike Young added four and KJ Murray finished with two points. GIRLS Ardmore 54, Russellville 42 Russellville opened

play in the West Morgan Holiday Classic on Dec. 27. Ardmore held a slim 22-21 lead at the half before pulling away in the final two quarters. Ella Copeland was the top scorer for RHS with 20 points. Laila Hill added six, Jacey Moore and Jemma Moore had five each, Avery Watts added four and Aleah Bonman scored two points.

High School on day two at West Morgan. The Red Raiders led 29-15 at the halftime break and 52-25 after three quarters of action. Russellville’s Jacey Moore led scoring with 15 points. Ella Copeland added 13, and Avery Watts earned five. Desiree Medina scored three, Jemma Moore two and Laila Hill added one point.

Decatur 60, Russellville 39 RHS faced Decatur

Russellville 45, Danville 34 Russellville (6-8)

wrapped up the West Morgan Holiday Classic with a victory on Dec. 29. RHS led 23-13 at the half, and the two teams played an even third period before the Lady Tigers outpaced Danville 16-15 in the fourth quarter. A trio of players, Ella Copeland, Avery Watts and Laila Hill, led RHS with 10 points each. Jacey Moore added seven, Desiree Medina earned six and Jemma Moore scored two points.

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Franklin County Times • www.franklincountytimes.com • B3

January 3, 2024

Franklin County Times Classified

FRANKLIN COUNTY AND SURROUNDING AREAS

Byars Building, Suite 7 501 N. Jackson Ave. Russellville, AL 35653 • 256-766-3440

FranklinCountyTimes.com classiﬁeds@franklincountytimes.com public.notices@franklincountytimes.com

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LOST: MALE BOSTON TERRIER BULLDOG 4-Way cross of Rose St., Turner, Lindsey Rd. Rogersville Missing since early Dec. $200 Reward upon return. No questions asked. No trouble. Just want my dog back. I can identify this dog to every spot. Call Michael 256-577-1509

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Special Notices

Rentals Women’s Center 11/25/2023 Cohen James Moss Baylee Hutchinson and Andrew Moss Red Bay 11/28/2023 Miguel Oliver Jimenez Ramos Francisca Ramos Lopez and Alexandro Jimenez Zucurias Russellville 11/28/2023 Raelynn Colleen Johnson Ariel and Shawn Johnson Russellville 11/28/2023 Ty Walker Green Jayce Dunn and Nathan Green Russellville 11/30/2023 Reid Ethan Parker Ethan and Madison Parker Russellville 12/10/2023 Edurne Antonella Agustin Chun Consuelo De Leon and Ramon Isidro Russellville 12/13/2023 Edvin Rene Jacinto Agustin Lesbia Marinely Rodriguez and Edvin Rene Agustin Russellville 12/18/2023 Hallie Rayburn Nicole and Tommy Rayburn Red Bay

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Please email resumes to hollie.colella@ timesdaily.com or applications may be picked up at 219 West Tennessee Street Florence, AL 35630

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SONY MINI STEREO SYSTEM 560 Watts $400, Galaxy S22 Ultra Verizon Straight Talk $600, Galaxy S22 Ultra Consumer Cellular $600. Call 256-558-4785 Miscellaneous ALABAMA CRACK MAN “William James Greenlee III” Extra Mile Brick (ALL MASONRY REPAIR) •Fireplace •Chimney •Firebox •Cracked Walls •Loose Brick •Driveway Cracks •Steps •Firebox •Tuck Pointing •Cracked Brick •Stucco •Stone Work •Concrete •Historic Restoration 82 AIRBORNE INFANTRY Combat Veteran 256-797-5281

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WANTED DEAD OR ALIVE! Junk batteries, $4 each. Ranger Battery Co. 426 Royal Avenue. 256-766-0473

2013 FORD TAURUS All power, excellent condition inside and out. High mileage, but looks and drives like new, $7,400 or make reasonable offer. 256-702-6210 Leighton HONDA: ACCORD, 2012 $12,950. LX One owner Four door. White… tan interior. Just serviced. Excellent condition Call 256527-2125 HONDA: CIVIC EX, 2012 $13,950. One owner, only 88k miles, 4 door, automatic, full power, sunroof, alloy wheels with new tires, just serviced. Superb condition. $13,950 256-527-2125 NISSAN: LEAF SV, 2015 $7,000. Only 72K miles, ALL ELECTRIC, 4 door, navigation, heated seats and rear-view camera. 2 Keys. Excellent Nissan Value! 256-527-2125 TOYOTA: CAMRY SE MODEL, 2013 $16,950. One Owner Only 47k miles Full power, alloy wheels with new tires. Just serviced, Excellent Condition 256-5272125

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I TEAR DOWN OLD houses, barns, or any out buildings, large or small and I clean up and haul away. Barry Harville 256-221-7814

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Pets/Supplies/ Services AKC HAVANESE PUPPIES Call for more information $1800 256-476-0549

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B4 • Franklin County Times • www.franklincountytimes.com

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Announcements Public Notice MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE NOTICE

Default having been made in the terms of that certain mortgage executed on the 24th day of January, 2020, by Brian W. Higgins and Lindsey Higgins in favor of Valley State Bank, which said mortgage is recorded in the Office of the Judge of Probate of Franklin County, Alabama, in Mortgage Book 828, Page 296, and default continuing, and by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, Valley State Bank will sell at public outcry to the highest bidder for cash in front of the front doors of the Franklin County Courthouse, Russellville, Alabama during the legal hours of sale on the 7th day of February, 2024, the following described real estate situated in Franklin County, Alabama, to-wit: A tract or parcel of land being more fully described as follows, to wit: Commence at the SE corner of the N ½ of the SE ¼ of Section 27, Township 8 South, Range 14 West; thence go West along the South line of the said Quarter Section 1700 feet, more or less, to a point on the East line of County Highway No. 27; thence North along the East line of County Highway No. 27; thence North along the East line

Alabama law gives some persons who have an interest in property the right to redeem the property under certain circumstances. Programs may also exist that help persons avoid or delay the Foreclosure process. An attorney should be consulted to help you understand these rights and programs as a part of the Foreclosure process. The aforementioned property will be sold subject to any existing Federal and State tax liens and prior mortgages, if any, and any and all existing ad valorem taxes. Said sale is made for the purpose of paying the mortgage debt and costs of foreclosure and will be conducted by BEDFORD, ROGERS, BOWLING & MCREYNOLDS, P.C., Attorneys, P. O. Box 669, Russellville, Alabama. BEDFORD, ROGERS, BOWLING & MCREYNOLDS, P.C. ATTORNEYS-AT-LAW Attorneys for Valley State Bank THIS NOTICE IS TO RUN 3 WEEKS - January 3, 2023; January 10, 2023 and January 17, 2023 ADID 576607 NOTICE OF ADOPTION HEARING PROBATE COURT OF FRANKLIN COUNTY, ALABAMA NOTICE TO: Unknown father of I. M. D., a minor child, born to Sarah Marie Diaz on April 21, 2023 Please take notice that a Petition for Adoption in the abovestyled matter has been filed in said Court by Matthew Steven Parker and Keslie Chyenne

SUDOKU ANSWERS

said Court by Matthew Steven Parker and Keslie Chyenne Parker, Petitioners, and that 18th day of January 2024 at 10:00 a.m. has been set for hearing on the same at the Probate court of Franklin County Courthouse in Russellville, Alabama. Please be advised that if you intend to contest this adoption, you must file a written response within thirty (30) days hereof with counsel for said Petitioner, whose name and address are shown below and with the Clerk of the Probate Court. Jeffrey L. Bowling P.O. Box 669 Russellville, AL 35653 Clerk, Franklin County Probate Court P.O. Box 70 Russellville, AL 35653

12/13/23, 12/20/23, 12/27/23, 01/03/24 ADID 575178

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PUBLIC NOTICE ESTATE OF MICKEY DALE THORNE, DECEASED Case# 23-0127 PROBATE COURT OF FRANKLIN COUNTY, ALABAMA Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to JEREMY CAIN THORNE, as Executor of the Last Will & Testament, of MICKEY DALE THORNE, deceased, on the 15th day of December, 2023, by Honorable Barry Moore, Judge of Probate Court of Franklin County, Alabama. Notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. 12/20/23, 12/27/23, 01/03/24 ADID 576181 PUBLIC NOTICE ESTATE OF RAMON ORTEGA, DECEASED Case# 23-0129 PROBATE COURT OF FRANKLIN COUNTY, ALABAMA Letters of Administration of said deceased having been granted to RAYMOND STEVEN ORTEGA AND EDWARD ROGER ORTEGA, as Co-Personal Representatives, of the Estate of RAMON ORTEGA, deceased, on the 19th day of December, 2023, by Honorable Barry Moore, Judge of Probate Court of Franklin County, Alabama. Notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. 12/27/23, 01/03/24, 01/10/24 ADID 576508 PUBLIC NOTICE ESTATE OF RODNEY B. HAMPTON, DECEASED Case# 23-0128 PROBATE COURT OF FRANKLIN COUNTY, ALABAMA Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to SUSAN MITCHELL, as Executor of the Last Will & Testament, of RODNEY B. MITCHELL, deceased, on the 19th day of December, 2023, by Honorable Barry Moore, Judge of Probate Court of Franklin County AlaGet results fast with the TNValleyStuff Classiﬁeds.

Court of Franklin County, Alabama. Notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. 12/27/23, 01/03/24, 01/10/24 ADID 576344 PUBLIC NOTICE ESTATE OF VIRGINIA RUTH MITCHELL MCCALMON, DECEASED Case# 23-0113 PROBATE COURT OF FRANKLIN COUNTY, ALABAMA Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to KELLI HARGETT HIGGINS, as Executrix. of the Last Will & Testament, of VIRGINIA RUTH MITCHELL MCCALMON, deceased, on the 12th day of December, 2023, by Honorable Barry Moore, Judge of Probate Court of Franklin County, Alabama. Notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. 12/20/23, 12/27/23, 01/03/24 ADID 575670 PUBLIC NOTICE ESTATE OF WILLIAM EUGENE SEAY, DECEASED Case# 23-0130 PROBATE COURT OF FRANKLIN COUNTY, ALABAMA Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to LAURA LYNN BUTLER , as Executor of the Last Will & Testament, of WILLIAM EUGENE SEAY, deceased, on the 21st day of December, 2023, by Honorable Barry Moore, Judge of Probate Court of Franklin County, Alabama. Notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. 01/03/24, 01/10/24, 01/17/24 ADID 577289 STATE OF ALABAMA COUNTY OF FRANKLIN NOTICE is hereby given that a bill substantially as follows will be introduced in the 2024 Regular Session of the Legislature of Alabama and application for its passage and enactment will be made: R4LCYY-1 12/05/2023 THR (L)THR 2023-2444 DRAFT DOCUMENT: NOT OFFICIAL LEGISLATION A BILL TO BE ENTITLED AN ACT Relating to Franklin County; to provide for the annual expense allowance and salary and other benefits for the coroner; and to further authorize the Franklin County Commission to appropriate and expend funds for the operation of the office of the coroner. BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF ALABAMA: Section 1. (a) The Coroner of Franklin County shall receive an expense allowance in the amount of nine thousand seven hundred dollars ($9,700) per annum, which shall be in addition to all other expense allowances, compensation, or salary provided by law. The expense allowance shall be paid in equal monthly installments from the general fund of the county. (b) Effective beginning the next term of office, the ex-

(b) Effective beginning the next term of office, the expense allowance provided for in subsection (a) shall be void, and the Coroner of Franklin County shall receive an annual salary of ten thousand dollars ($10,000) to be paid in equal monthly installments from the general fund of the county. The salary in this subsection shall be the total compensation paid to the coroner, subject to the adjustments provided in subsection (c). (c) In addition to the salary provided in subsection (b), the salary of the coroner shall be increased by any uniform increases in compensation granted equally to all county employees by the Franklin County Commission. In addition, the coroner may participate in the county health insurance plan and any retirement plan provided to county employees under the same terms as county employees. (d) The Franklin County Commission may appropriate and expend county funds for the coroner’s salary, benefits, and expenses necessary for the operation of the office of the coroner. The commission may provide the coroner with expenses for the operation of a motor vehicle or may furnish the coroner with the use of a county vehicle. (e) The Franklin County Commission may authorize the coroner to appoint one or more deputy coroners to perform the duties of the coroner in the absence of the coroner and provide for the compensation of any deputy coroner appointed. Section 2. Act 1185, 1969 Regular Session (Acts 1969, p. 2213), as amended by Act 90461, 1990 Regular Session (Acts 1990, p. 653); Act 491, 1971 Regular Session (Acts 1971, p.1205); and Act 446, 1973 Regular Session (Acts 1973, p. 636) are repealed. Section 3. This act shall become effective on June 1, 2024. 12/20/23, 12/27/23, 01/03/24, 01/10/24 ADID 575866 STATE OF ALABAMA PROBATE COURT, COUNTY OF FRANKLIN PUBLIC NOTICE REGARDING UPCOMING 2024 PRIMARY ELECTION Pursuant to 21-4-23(a)&(b), of the Code of Alabama (1975), notice is hereby given of the following with regard to Franklin County, Alabama; (a) The appropriate election officials in the several counties of this state shall make available registration and voting aids for handicapped and elderly individuals in state elections. These aids shall include, but are not limited to: (1) Instructions, printed in large type, conspicuously displayed at each voter registration site and polling place, sufficient to provide hearing impaired and seriously visually impaired individuals with adequate information as to how and where they may register and vote. (2) Each polling place shall have an ExpressVote Voter Assist Terminal for use by individuals with disabilities who would otherwise be prevented from voting because of their inability to mark a paper ballot. (3) Absentee ballots, available to any individual or elderly individual who, because of disability or age, is unable to go to their assigned polling place to vote on election day. The deadlines for requesting and submitting an absentee ballot is the same as it is for other persons seeking to vote by absentee ballot. (4) Every individual, including

January 3, 2024

vote by absentee ballot. (4) Every individual, including individuals with a disability or elderly individuals, may select a person of his or her choice to accompany such individual into the polling place to assist with the marking and casting of a ballot, providing the person providing assistance is not the voting individual’s employer, or an officer or agent of the voting individuals labor union. (5) The Primary Runoff Election will be held on March 5, 2024. (b) The appropriate election officials of each county shall issue public notice in each voting precinct of the requirement for and the availability of these registration and voting aids, which notice shall be notification for all handicapped and elderly individuals. This notice shall be issued as early as practicable, but in any case not later than 60 days before any state election or the registration deadline for such election.

Done this 29th day of December 2023. Barry Moore Probate Judge 01/03/24 ADID 577670

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of County Highway No. 27; thence North along the East line of County Highway No. 27, 366 feet, more or less, to a point, said point being the point of beginning; thence go East along the North line of the Jerry L. Lund property and extended line, 370 feet, more or less, to a point; thence North 180 feet, more or less, to a point; thence West parallel to the South line of said property 370 feet, more or less, to a point on the East line of Highway #27; thence South along the East line of Highway #27, 180 feet, more or less, back to the point of beginning. Lying and being situated in the N ½ of the SE ¼ of Section 27, Township 8 South, Range 14 West, Franklin County, Alabama.

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January 3, 2024

Franklin County Times • www.franklincountytimes.com • B5

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B6• Franklin County Times • www.franklincountytimes.com

January 3, 2024

2023 Review

Continued from page A2

LEFT: Tharptown High School’s rocketry team blasts into second place in the nation, out of 100 teams from across the country, during the American Rocketry Challenge. RIGHT: Franklin County boasts a number of opportunities to show off local talent, including the Roxy’s Salute to Broadway. placed second in the 2023 competition.

ous year, RHS was ranked 22nd in the state.

SEPTEMBER 2023 RHS ranks 18/386 on best Alabama high schools list U.S. News & World Report released their list of best high schools Aug. 29, and Russellville High School ranked 18 out of 386 high schools in the state of Alabama, the highest RHS has ever been ranked. The previ-

OCTOBER 2023 Russellville Elementary remembers classmate RES fifth-g rader, Austin Jase Fretwell, 11, and his mother, Jennifer “Jen” Fugate Fretwell, 38, passed away Sept. 27 following injuries sustained in a car accident on Highway 43. A prayer vigil took place at RES

Sept. 28 in memory of both. Students at RES and other schools wore his favorite colors in remembrance, and others in the community contributed in multiple ways to honor his memory. Roger Bedford, Jr. passes away Roger H. Bedford, Jr., 67, passed away Oct. 11 following a recent illness. He began his legal career

practicing with his father, uncle and cousin in the Russellville firm that became Bedford, Rogers and Bowling P.C. Bedford was a trial lawyer. Later in his career, he served as the municipal court judge in both Russellville and Hackleburg, in addition to a variety of other roles. He and his late wife, Maudie, prioritized family and service. In 1982, he was the youngest person ever elected to the Alabama

State Senate at the age of 25. First Franklin County Latino Heritage Festival takes place The first Franklin County Latino Heritage Festival took place in downtown Russellville. Events included food and other vendors, street soccer, music, a car show, dance competition, closing parade and other activities. NOVEMBER 2023 Football season ends for Russellville with second round playoff loss at Moody The Russellville football season ended with the Golden Tigers falling 42-21 to the Moody Blue Devils in the second round of the AHSAA Class 5A playoffs.

Mountain View Baptist Church gives thanks by giving back With 75 volunteers cooking, serving and delivering for the 23 rd

annual event, Mountain View Baptist Church in Phil Campbell served 605 free Thanksgiving dinners – 29 more than the previous year’s 576 meals (which was 110 more than the year before that) to community members and others nearby who registered on the church’s website for the event.

DECEMBER 2023 Community celebrates season Franklin County celebrated Christmas with a variety of events, including concerts, parades and plays.

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RES students and staff remember their classmate, fifth-grader Austin Jase Fretwell.

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Vehicle Title Problem? We have a Solution!

Unclaimed/Abandoned Vehicles, Mobile Homes & Surety Bonds Following a lengthy process, the City of Russellville celebrates receiving Main Street designation.

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We can help with most Titled Vehicles in Alabama, including Cars, Trucks, Motorcycles, RV’s & Trailers. Stop in, by phone or online!

Fre e Phone C onsu ltation Cal l 1-256-850-0527 www.J!"#$.com

Although the sun has set on College Avenue for the final time, it leaves a legacy that endures.